BOARD POLICIES

BOARD POLICIES

POLICIES

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Jen@iowaschool… Thu, 09/19/2019 - 12:29

100 - SCHOOL DISTRICT

100 - SCHOOL DISTRICT Jen@iowaschool… Tue, 11/23/2021 - 07:53

100 - Legal Status of the School District

100 - Legal Status of the School District

Iowa law authorizes the creation of a Common Schools System.  As part of this Common Schools System, this school district is a school corporation created and organized under Iowa law.   This school district shall be known as the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District.

This school corporation is located in Palo Alto and Clay counties, and its affairs are conducted by elected school officials, the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District Board of Directors.  This school corporation has exclusive jurisdiction over school matters in the territory of the school district.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 10-12-98, 10-08-01, 10-11-04, 10-08-07, 11-08-10, 3-10-14, 11-12-18, 11-08-21
Revised:  07-01-92                                                    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 14:49

101 - Educational Philosophy of the School District

101 - Educational Philosophy of the School District

It is the purpose of the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School to equip students with the knowledge, competencies, and confidence needed to live responsibly and successfully in our changing society.  In order to fulfill this mission the school will implement programs and establish conditions that maximize learning success for students.

Underlying this mission is our belief that every child can learn and succeed.  Every child is exceptional and valued.  Each is a separate individual differing from others in learning style and learning rate.  Each child comes to us at differing stages of development in social skills, physical maturity, cognitive ability and emotional adjustment.  While the rate of growth is not the same for all areas within the child, neither is the rate of growth constant.  We also believe children perform according to expectations and that students can be expected to develop to the fullest of his/her potential physically, mentally, socially and morally. 

We believe that learning is a lifelong process in which success breeds success.   Each person needs a positive self-concept in order to learn effectively.  In learning one must:  acquire new knowledge, insights, and skills; practice to reinforce and apply those acquisitions in more advanced ways; and then demonstrate proficiency.

Effective learning occurs in a non-threatening, interesting environment where students, parents, teachers, the school, and community take joint responsibility and work cooperatively together to foster a positive learning attitude. In order to achieve excellence, academic efforts cannot be confined to the classroom alone.  Community and family partnerships are critical. A desirable learning atmosphere is rich in opportunities and relevant, meaningful, and challenging learning activities which demonstrate high expectations that all students can and will do well.  Differing styles of teaching are employed in the constant search for ways to expand success experiences and support for our students every day.

The school will provide future oriented and problem solving educational experiences to enable our students to be “good at life” during their school years and after they graduate.  Students will be provided with the time and instruction they need to:  acquire knowledge and the skills for learning; develop thinking, initiative, creative ability, and critical judgment; acquire necessary social and moral habits and attitudes; learn to express themselves courteously and thoughtfully; maintain emotional, psychological, and physical health; understand and respect self; make decisions and set goals; develop the responsibility and self-discipline to work independently and do a task thoroughly; understand the interdependence of our global society; be able to use technology; and develop an awareness and respect for the contributions to our multicultural society by diverse ethnic and religious groups and by both sexes.

In order to achieve excellence, academic efforts cannot be confined to the classroom alone.  Community and family partnerships are critical.

Just as quality instruction is a priority for the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District, we are also committed to research based professional development opportunities for our staff.  It has been proven that the best way to improve academic achievement is by providing quality staff training alongside providing staff time to work together, observe one another, coach each other and practice new skills. 

Just as we hold high expectations for our student body, we hold equally high, if not higher, expectations for our teaching staff and administration.  Our board, administration and our staff shall be role models for our students and the community in the pursuit of excellence.

 

 

Approved:                           
Reviewed:  10-12-98, 10-8-01, 10-11-04, 10-8-07, 11-8-10, 3-10-14, 11-12-18
Revised:  01-12-09, 01-10-11, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 15:09

102 - School District Instructional Organization

102 - School District Instructional Organization

The Ruthven/Ayrshire Community School District offers an education program for grades pre-kindergarten through twelve.  The levels of instruction are organized by the following levels:

Grades pre-kindergarten through six shall attend Ruthven/Ayrshire Elementary School in Ruthven.

Grades seven through twelve shall attend the Ruthven/Ayrshire High School in Ruthven.

Each school building will have a principal responsible for the administration and management of the school building, the school building employees and the education program.  The principals shall work closely with the superintendent, who shall oversee the administration and management of the school district.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  10-12-98, 10-08-01, 10-08-07, 11-8-10, 11-12-18, 11-08-21                   
Revised:  11-11-96                                                    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 14:53

103 - Equal Educational Opportunity

103 - Equal Educational Opportunity

It is the goal of the board to develop a healthy social, intellectual, emotional, and physical self-concept in the students enrolled in the school district.  Each student attending school will have the opportunity to use its education program and services as a means for self-improvement and individual growth.  In so doing, the students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that assures each student the same educational opportunity.

The Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity, and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices.  The belief in equal educational opportunity serves as a guide for the board and employees in making decisions relating to school district facilities, employment, selection of educational materials, equipment, curriculum, and regulations affecting students.  There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination.  If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy, please contact

Matt Borchers – maborc@gt.ratitans.org

1505 Washington Street

Ruthven, IA 51358

(712) 837-5211

Board policies, rules, and regulations affect students while they are on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management, and welfare of the school district.

The board requires all persons, agencies, vendors, contractors, and other persons and organizations doing business with or performing services for the school district to subscribe to all applicable federal and state laws, executive orders, rules, and regulations pertaining to contract compliance and equal opportunity.

Inquiries by students regarding compliance with equal educational opportunity and affirmative action laws and policies, including but not limited to complaints of discrimination, are directed to the Affirmative Actor Coordinator by contacting

Matt Borchers – maborc@gt.ratitans.org

1505 Washington Street

Ruthven, IA 51358

(712) 837-5211

Inquiries by students regarding compliance with equal educational opportunity and affirmative action laws and policies, including but not limited to complaints of discrimination, may also be directed in writing to the Director of the Region VII office of Civil Rights, United States Department of Education, John C. Kluczynski Federal Building, 230 South Dearborn Street, 37th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60604 (312) 730-1560, fax (312) 730-1576 OCR.Chicago@ed.gov, the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, https://icrc.iowa.gov, (515) 281-4121 or the Iowa Department of Education, Grimes State Office Building., Des Moines, IA 50319. (515) 281-5294.  This inquiry or complaint to the federal or state office may be done instead of, or in addition to, an inquiry or complaint at the local level.

 

 

Approved   08-13-07    
Reviewed 10-08-07, 11-12-18   
Revised 12-14-15

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 14:50

103.E1 - Annual Notice of Nondiscrimination

103.E1 - Annual Notice of Nondiscrimination

The Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District offers career and technical programs in the following areas of study:

  • Business
  • Industrial Technology
  • Family Consumer Science
  • Vocational Agriculture

It is the policy of the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact:

Matt Borchers – maborc@gt.ratitans.org

1505 Washington Street

Ruthven, IA 51358

(712) 837-5211

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 15:08

103.E2 - Continuous Notice of Nondiscrimination

103.E2 - Continuous Notice of Nondiscrimination

It is the policy of the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact

Matt Borchers – maborc@gt.ratitans.org

1505 Washington Street

Ruthven, IA  51358

(712) 837-5211

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 15:06

103.E3 - Notice of Section 504 Student and Parental Rights

103.E3 - Notice of Section 504 Student and Parental Rights

The Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District does not discriminate in its educational programs and activities on the basis of a student's disability. It has been determined that your child has a qualifying disability for which accommodations may need to be made to meet his or her individual needs as adequately as the needs of other students. As a parent, you have the right to the following:

  • Participation of your child in school district programs and activities, including extracurricular programs and activities, to the maximum extent appropriate, free of discrimination based upon the student's disability and at the same level as students without disabilities;
  • Receipt of free educational services to the extent they are provided students without disabilities:
  • Receipt of information about your child and your child's educational programs and activities in your native language;
  • Notice of identification of your child as having a qualifying disability for which accommodations may need to be made and notice prior to evaluation and placement of your child and right to periodically request a re-evaluation of your child;
  • Inspect and review your child's educational records including a right to copy those records for a reasonable fee; you also have a right to ask the school district to amend your child's educational records if you feel the information in the records is misleading or inaccurate; and
  • Hearing before an impartial hearing officer if you disagree with your child's evaluation or placement; you have a right to counsel at the hearing and have the decision of the impartial hearing officer reviewed.

It is the policy of the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact:

Matt Borchers – maborc@gt.ratitans.org

1505 Washington Street

Ruthven, IA 51358

(712) 837-5211

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 15:07

103.E4 - Discrimination Complaint Form

103.E4 - Discrimination Complaint Form

 

Date of complaint:

_____________________________________________________

Name of Complainant:

_____________________________________________________

Are you filling out this form for yourself or someone else (please identify the individual if you are submitting on behalf of someone else):

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Who or what entity do you believe discriminated against you (or someone else)?

_____________________________________________________

Date and place of alleged incident(s):

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Names of any witnesses (if any):

_____________________________________________________

 

Nature of discrimination alleged (check all that apply):

 

Age

 

Religion

 

Disability

 

Creed

 

Gender Identity

 

Sex

 

Marital Status

 

Sexual Orientation

 

National Origin

 

Socioeconomic Status

 

Race/Color

 

Other – Please Specify

 

In the space below, please describe what happened and why you believe that you or someone else has been discriminated against. Please be as specific as possible and attach additional pages if necessary.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

Signature: _____________________________________            Date:  __________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 15:05

103.E5 - Witness Disclosure Form

103.E5 - Witness Disclosure Form

Name of Witness:

_____________________________________________________

Date of interview:

_____________________________________________________

Date of initial complaint:

_____________________________________________________

Name of Complainant (include whether the Complainant is a student or employee): 

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Date and place of alleged incident(s):

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

 

 

Nature of discrimination alleged (check all that apply):

 

Age

 

Religion

 

Disability

 

Creed

 

Gender Identity

 

Sex

 

Marital Status

 

Sexual Orientation

 

National Origin

 

Socioeconomic Status

 

Race/Color

 

Other – Please Specify

 

Description of incident witnessed: _________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

 

Additional information: _________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

 

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

Signature: _____________________________________            Date:  __________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 15:02

103.E6 - Disposition of Complaint Form

103.E6 - Disposition of Complaint Form

Date:

_____________________________________________________

Date of initial complaint:

_____________________________________________________

Name of Complainant (include whether the Complainant is a student or employee): 

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

 

 

Date and place of alleged incident(s):

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Name of Respondent (include whether the Respondent is a student or employee):

­­­­­­­­­­_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

 

 

Nature of discrimination alleged (check all that apply):

 

Age

 

Religion

 

Disability

 

Creed

 

Gender Identity

 

Sex

 

Marital Status

 

Sexual Orientation

 

National Origin

 

Socioeconomic Status

 

Race/Color

 

Other – Please Specify

 

 

Summary of Investigation: _______________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
____
_____________________________________________________________________________________

 

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

 

Signature: _____________________________________            Date:  _________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 15:00

103.R1 - Grievance Procedure

103.R1 - Grievance Procedure

It is the policy of the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact:

Matt Borchers - maborc@gt.ratitans.org

Matt Borchers – maborc@gt.ratitans.org

1505 Washington Street

Ruthven, IA 51358

(712) 837-5211

Students, parents of students, employees, and applicants for employment in the school district have the right to file a formal complaint alleging discrimination. The school district has policies and procedures in place to identify and investigate complaints alleging discrimination. If appropriate, the school district will take steps to prevent the recurrence of discrimination and to correct its discriminatory effects on the complainant and others.

A complainant may attempt to resolve the problem informally by discussing the matter with a building principal or a direct supervisor. However, the complainant has the right to end the informal process at any time and pursue the formal grievance procedures outlined below. Use of the informal or formal grievance procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of other remedies. Please note that informal processes and procedures are not to be used in certain circumstances (e.g., sexual harassment and sexual assault).

 

Filing a Complaint

A complainant who wishes to avail himself/herself of this grievance procedure may do so by filing a complaint with the equity coordinator(s). An alternate will be designated in the event it is claimed that the equity coordinator or superintendent committed the alleged discrimination or some other conflict of interest exists. Complaints shall be filed within 180 days of the event giving rise to the complaint or from the date the complainant could reasonably become aware of such occurrence. The complainant will state the nature of the complaint and the remedy requested. The equity coordinator(s) shall assist the Complainant as needed.

 

Investigation

Within 15 working days, the equity coordinator will begin the investigation of the complaint or appoint a qualified person to undertake the investigation (hereinafter “equity coordinator”).  If the complainant is under 18 years of age, the equity coordinator shall notify his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) that they may attend investigatory meetings in which the complainant is involved. The complaint and identity of the complainant, respondent or witnesses will only be disclosed as reasonably necessary in connection with the investigation or as required by law or policy. The investigation may include, but is not limited to the following:

  • A request for the complainant to provide a written statement regarding the nature of the complaint;
  • A request for the individual named in the complaint to provide a written statement;
  • A request for witnesses identified during the course of the investigation to provide a written statement;
  • Interviews of the complainant, respondent or witnesses;
  • An opportunity to present witnesses or other relevant information; and
  • Review and collection of documentation or information deemed relevant to the investigation.

Within 60 working days, the equity coordinator shall complete the investigation and issue a report with respect to the findings.

The equity coordinator shall notify the complainant and respondent of the decision within 5 working days of completing the written report. Notification shall be by U.S. mail, first class.

 

Decision and Appeal

The complaint is closed after the equity coordinator has issued the report, unless within 10 working days after receiving the decision, either party appeals the decision to the superintendent by making a written request detailing why he/she believes the decision should be reconsidered. The equity coordinator shall promptly forward all materials relative to the complaint and appeal to the superintendent. Within 30 working days, the superintendent shall affirm, reverse, amend the decision or direct the equity coordinator to gather additional information. The superintendent shall notify the complainant, respondent, and the equity coordinator of the decision within 5 working days of the decision. Notification shall be by U.S. mail, first class.

The decision of the superintendent shall be final.

The decision of the superintendent in no way prejudices a party from seeking redress through state or federal agencies as provided by in law.

This policy and procedures are to be used for complaints of discrimination, in lieu of any other general complaint policies or procedures that may be available.

If any of the stated timeframes cannot be met by the school district, the school district will notify the parties and pursue completion as promptly as possible.

Retaliation against any person, because the person has filed a complaint or assisted or participated in an investigation, is prohibited. Persons found to have engaged in retaliation shall be subject to discipline by appropriate measures.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 15:00

104 - The People and Their School District

104 - The People and Their School District

The board recognizes the value of interaction and participation of the citizens of the school district community with the school district.  The board will cooperate and participate, whenever possible, in the school district community while carrying out its elected responsibilities.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of opportunities for involvement with the school district community.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Revised:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 10-12-98, 10-08-01, 10-1-04, 10-08-07, 11-08-10, 11-12-18, 11-08-21
Revised:                                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 14:58

105 - Long-Range Needs Assessment

105 - Long-Range Needs Assessment

Long-range needs assessment enables the school district to analyze assessment data, get feedback from the community about its expectations of students and determines how well students are meeting student learning goals.   The board shall conduct ongoing and in-depth needs assessment, soliciting information from business, labor, industry, higher education and community members, regarding their expectations for adequate student preparation as responsible citizens and successful wage earners.

In conjunction with the in-depth needs assessment of the school district, the board shall authorize the appointment of a committee, representing administrators, employees, parents, students and community members, to make recommendations and assist the board in determining the priorities of the school district in addition to the basic skills areas of the education program.

The district will provide various opportunities for the community and students to give feedback on an ongoing basis:

            *Annual student surveys

            *Student group meetings to provide student opinions

            *Open house activities

            *Parent/teacher conferences

            *Advisory committees

Other activities will be used to meet these needs.  This includes a needs assessment survey taken every five years.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure the school district community is informed of students’ progress on state and locally determined indicators.  The superintendent shall report annually to the board about the means used to keep the community informed.

As a result of the board and committee's work, the board shall determine major educational needs and rank them in priority order; develop long-range goals and plans to meet the needs; establish and implement short-range and intermediate-range plans to meet the goals and to attain the desired levels of student performance; evaluate progress toward meeting the goals and maintain a record of progress under the plan that includes reports of student performance and results of school improvement projects; and annually report the school district's progress made under the plan to the committee, community and Iowa Department of Education.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92                      
Reviewed:  01-08-01, 10-11-04, 10-08-07, 11-08-10, 5-23-11, 11-12-18, 11-08-21
Revised:  11-13-00                                                                               

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 14:55

105R1 - Long-Range Needs Assessment

105R1 - Long-Range Needs Assessment

School districts also need to develop a process for long–range needs assessment. The process needs to include three items

  • provisions for collecting, analyzing and reporting information derived from local, state and national sources;
  • provisions for reviewing information acquired on the following:
    • state indicators and other locally determined indicators,
    • locally established student learning goals,
    • specific data collection required by state and federal programs;
  • provisions for collecting and analyzing assessment data on the following:
    • state indicators,
    • locally determined indicators,
    • locally established student learning goals.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 14:57

106 - Discrimination and Harassment Based on Sex

106 - Discrimination and Harassment Based on Sex

In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District prohibits sex discrimination, including sexual harassment as defined by the regulations implementing Title IX (34 C.F.R. § 106.30), against any individual participating in any education program or activity of the school district.  This prohibition on discrimination applies to students, employees, and applicants for employment.

The board authorizes the superintendent to adopt procedures for any individual to report sexual harassment to the school district’s Title IX Coordinator for the provision of supportive measures to anyone who has been subjected to sexual harassment whether or not they proceed with a formal complaint under those procedures, and for the investigation and resolution of such complaints, as required by Title IX.  This Title IX grievance process shall be used to respond to all complaints of sexual harassment that fall within the scope of Title IX.  For complaints of sexual harassment that do not fall within the scope of Title IX, the school district may still offer supportive measures to the subject of such conduct and shall apply any other policy or procedure applicable to the alleged conduct.

Any individual with questions about the school district’s Title IX policy and procedures or who would like to make a report or file a formal complaint of sex discrimination or sexual harassment may contact the school district’s designated Title Coordinator:

Matt Borchers – maborc@gt.ratitans.org

1505 Washington Street

Ruthven, IA 51358

(712) 837-5211

Retaliation against a person who made a report or complaint of sexual harassment, assisted or participated in any manner in an investigation or resolution of a sexual harassment report or complaint is strictly prohibited. Retaliation includes threats, coercion, discrimination, intimidation, reprisals, and/or adverse actions related to employment or education.  Any individual who believes they have been retaliated against in violation of this policy should immediately contact the school district’s Title IX Coordinator.

 

 

Approved:  11-08-21                      
Reviewed:                                                                                            
Revised:                                        

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 12/07/2021 - 14:55

200 - BOARD OF DIRECTORS

200 - BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jen@iowaschool… Tue, 11/23/2021 - 07:53

200 - Statement of Guiding Principles

200 - Statement of Guiding Principles dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:17

200.1 - Role of the Board of Directors

200.1 - Role of the Board of Directors

In this series of the board policy manual, the board defines its role in the governance of the school district and how it will carry out that role in the school district community and in the school district.

The ultimate goal of the board is to achieve the educational philosophy of the school district.  As school officials elected by the members of the school district community, the board shall strive to represent the needs and wishes of the members of the school district community in its deliberations and actions.

While the board shall be aware of the desires of the school district community, the needs of the students in the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District shall be considered above others.  The board strives to meet the needs of the students through evaluation of the financial and educational benefits of the various alternatives available to the board and the school district.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-05-04, 10-01-07, 11-14-11, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:  07-02-92, 01-12-09

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:18

200.2 - Organization of the Board of Directors

200.2 - Organization of the Board of Directors

The Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District board is authorized by and derives its organization from Iowa Law.  The board will consist of 7 (seven) board members.  Board members are elected at large.

The board is organized for the purpose of setting policy and providing general direction for the school district.  The board will hold its organizational meeting in each odd-numbered year at the first regular meeting following the canvass of votes.  The retiring board will transfer materials, including the board policy manual, and responsibility to the new board.

The organizational meeting allows the outgoing board to approve minutes of its previous meetings, complete unfinished business, and review the school election results.  The retiring board will adjourn and the new board will then begin.  The board secretary will administer the oath of office to the newly-elected board members.  The board secretary will preside while the new board elects the president and vice-president of the new board.

 

 

Approved:                    
Reviewed: 11-9-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  2-12-08, 01-12-09, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:21

200.3 - Powers of the Board of Directors

200.3 - Powers of the Board of Directors

The board of   the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District, acting on behalf of the school district, shall have jurisdiction over school matters in the territory of the school district.

The board is empowered to make policy for its own governance, for employees, for students, and for the school district facilities.  The board is also empowered to enforce its policies.  The board may, through its quasi-judicial power, conduct hearings and rule on issues and disputes confronting the school district. 

The board has these powers and all other powers expressly granted to it in federal and state law as well as the powers that can be reasonably implied from the express powers.

Because all powers of the board derived from the state statutes are granted in terms of action as a group, individual board members exercise authority over school district affairs only as they vote to take action at a legal meeting of the board.  In other instances, an individual board member, including the president, will have power only when the board, by vote, has delegated authority.  The board will make its members, the school district staff, and the public aware that only the board acting as a whole has authority to take official action.  Therefore, the board may transact business only with a quorum present during a regular or special meeting.

Pursuant to law, any board member shall not seek individually to influence the official functions of the school district.  The board and its members will deal with administrative services through the superintendent and will not give orders to any subordinates of the superintendent either publicly or privately but may make suggestions and recommendations.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-9-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-16-10, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised: 11-08-21
                 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:19

200.4 - Responsibilities of the Board of Directors

200.4 - Responsibilities of the Board of Directors

The board is authorized to govern the school district which it oversees.  The board is entrusted with public funds and is responsible for overseeing the improvement of student outcomes, including student academic achievement and skill proficiency. As the governing board of the school district, the board has three duties to perform:  legislative duty, executive duty and evaluative duty.

As a representative of the citizens of the school district community, the board is responsible for legislating policy for the school district.  As a policy making body, the board has jurisdiction to enact policy with the force and effect of law for the management and operation of the school district.

It is the responsibility of the board, under the board’s executive duty, to select its chief executive officer, the superintendent, to operate the school district on the board’s behalf.  The board delegates to the superintendent its authority to carry out board policy, to formulate and carry out rules and regulations, and to handle the administrative details in a manner which supports and is consistent with board policy.

The board has a responsibility to review the education program’s performance under its evaluative duty.  The board reviews the education program and ancillary services.  The review includes a careful study and examination of the facts, conditions, and circumstances surrounding the amount of funds received or expended and the education program’s ability to achieve the board’s educational philosophy and goals for the school district. 

 

 

Approved: 07-01-92              
Revised:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-16-10, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:22

200.5 Board Member Social Media Engagement

200.5 Board Member Social Media Engagement

BOARD MEMBER SOCIAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENT

The board sees the value in promoting the excellent work and accomplishments of the district’s students and staff. Social media is one of many effective communication tools that the district may utilize. Board members have been publicly elected to govern the district and accept a fiduciary responsibility. That responsibility means board members agree to always act in the best interests of the district. For this reason, the board shall expect that individual communications and social media posts made by board members will reflect the values and decorum expected of elected officials in the school community.

All board members enjoy rights to freedom of speech under both the U.S. and Iowa Constitutions.  As such, the district will not limit protected speech of any board members. Certain categories of speech are not protected and may be subject to regulation.  Additionally, board members should be aware that protected speech can still subject individuals to legal liability.  Only the Board President is designated as official spokesperson authorized to speak on behalf of the board. Any postings by board members about district related matters on their individual social media accounts shall not be considered official action of the district.  Official statements of the district shall be made only on district social media accounts through the designated spokespersons of the district or the entire board speaking as a governing body.

The board as a whole and individual board members in their governance role have legal obligations to safeguard the privacy of information related to student and employee matters. Board members will refrain from posting or communicating on social media in a way that violates the district’s obligation to protect the privacy of its students and employees.

Board members are uniquely positioned in the school community to be both accessible and responsive to community concerns about the effective governance of the district.  As a result, the board will remember their obligations to safeguard student and employee privacy when responding to any social media posts or communications, even if the response is intended to correct information for the rest of the school community.  Board members will direct concerned individuals to the appropriate district staff to address their inquiry or complaint in accordance with board policy. 

 

Approved :  8-21-24 Reviewed:  Revised:  

 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 08/22/2024 - 15:03

201 - Board of Directors' Elections

201 - Board of Directors' Elections

The school election takes place on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of odd numbered years.   Each school election shall be used to elect citizens to the board to maintain a seven member board and to address other questions that must be put before the voters.

Citizens of the school district community seeking a seat on the board must file their nomination papers with the board secretary in accordance with the timelines established by Iowa law.

If a vacancy occurs on the board, it may be filled in accordance with law and board policy.

All elections will be held as provided in Iowa law. It shall be the responsibility of the county commissioner of elections to conduct school election

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92        
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 1l-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-11-14
Revised:  01-10-05, 7-16-18, 11-08-21           

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:15

201.1R1 - Organizational Meeting Procedures

201.1R1 - Organizational Meeting Procedures

The board will hold its organizational meeting in odd-numbered years at the first regular meeting following the canvass of votes. Notice of the meeting's place and time will be given by the board secretary to each member, member-elect, and the public.

The purpose of the meeting is to transfer material and responsibility from the outgoing board to the new board. At the meeting, the board will elect a president and vice president who will hold office for one year. Once elected, the president and vice president will be entitled to vote on all matters before the board.  The board president and vice president are each elected to a one year term at the organizational meeting in odd-numbered years and at the annual meeting in even-numbered years.

Meeting Procedure

The organizational meeting of the board will be held in two parts:  the final meeting of the outgoing board and the organizational meeting of the new board.

1.     Final Meeting of the Retiring Board

        (1)      Call to order.

        (2)      Roll call.

        (3)      Approval of minutes of previous meeting(s).

        (4)      Visitors.

        (5)      Unfinished business.

                  (a)  Current claims and accounts (for the retiring board to authorize).

                  (b)  Other items.  If any member of the board feels the board should consider any unfinished business, even if only to identify it as unfinished business, the member should address the issue at this time.

        (6)      Review of election results. The board secretary will present the county auditor's official report on the latest elections. Official results are recorded in the minutes.

        (7)      Adjournment of the retiring board.

2.     Organizational Meeting of the New Board

        (1)      Board Secretary as president pro-tem, will preside over the meeting until a new board president is elected.

        (2)      Call to order.

        (3)      Roll call.

        (4)      Oath of office. The board secretary will administer the oath to new members.

        (5)      Election of a president of the board. The president pro-tem calls for nominations; nominations need not be seconded. The board will then vote on the nominations. The board secretary will announce the result of the vote, and the board secretary will administer the oath of office to the newly elected president and the newly elected president will assume the chair.

         (6)     Election of the vice-president. The president of the board will call for nominations; the nominations need not be seconded. The board will then vote on the nominations. The president will announce the results and administer the oath of office to the vice-president.

Other items of business at the organizational meeting may include:

         (7)     Board resolution of appreciation recognizing the public service rendered by retiring board members.

         (8)     Determination of dates, times, and places for regular meetings of the board.

         (9)     Board resolution to define the operating rules and practices that will be followed by the new board.

        (10)    Board resolution to authorize the interim payment of bills pursuant to policy 705.3.

        (11)    Visitors.

        (12)    Superintendent's report.

        (13)    Adjournment.

       

 

Approved:  9-11-17                              
Reviewed                                                           
Revised:   9-20-17, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:16

202 - Director Members

202 - Director Members dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:09

202.1 - Qualifications

202.1 - Qualifications

Serving on the board of directors is an honor and privilege.  Its rewards are respect from the community, the students, the employees and satisfaction from knowing each board member contributed to the success of the children in the school district community.  Only those who are willing to put forth the effort to care and to make a difference should consider running for a position on the board.

Individuals who are willing to serve on the board believe public education is important, support the democratic process, willingly devote time and energy to board work, respect educators and have the ability to examine the facts and make a decision.  The board believes an individual considering a position on the school board should possess these characteristics.

Citizens wanting to run for a position must be a citizen of the school district, an eligible elector of the district and free from a financial conflict of interest with the position.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:12

202.2 - Oath of Office

202.2 - Oath of Office

Board members are officials of the state.  As a public official, each board member must pledge to uphold the Iowa and the United States Constitution and carry out the responsibilities of the office to the best of the board member's ability.

Each newly-elected member will take the oath of office prior to any action taken as a school official.  The oath of office shall be taken by each new board member elected at the school election at or before the organizational meeting of the board. In the event of an appointment or special election to fill a vacancy, the new board member will take the oath of office within ten days of the appointment or election.

Board members elected to offices of the board shall also take the same oath of office but replacing the office of board  member with the title of the office to which they were elected.

The oath of office shall be administered by the board secretary and does not need to be given at a board meeting.  In the event the board secretary is absent, the oath shall be administered by another board member.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  01-12-09, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:12

202.3 - Term of Office

202.3 - Term of Office

Board members elected for a full term at a regularly scheduled school election in November of odd-numbered years serve for four years.  Board members appointed to fill a vacant position will serve until a successor is elected and qualified at the next regular school election, unless there is an intervening special election for the school district, in which event a successor shall be elected at the intervening special election.  A board member elected to fill a vacancy will serve out the unexpired term.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-8-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  01-12-09, 7-16-18, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:14

202.4 - Vacancies

202.4 - Vacancies

A vacancy occurs as provided by law, which includes, but is not limited to, when a board member dies, resigns, leaves office or fails to reside in the school district

If a vacancy occurs prior to the expiration of a term of office, the vacancy will be filled by board appointment within 30 days of the vacancy.  The board shall publish notice stating the board intends to fill the vacancy by appointment, but the electors of the school district have the right to file a petition requiring the vacancy be filled by special election. 

A person appointed to fill a vacancy shall hold office until a successor is elected and qualified at the next regular school election, unless there is an intervening special election for the school district, in which event a successor shall be elected at the intervening special election.

If the board is unable to fill a vacancy by appointment within 30 days after the vacancy occurs or if a valid petition is submitted, the board secretary will call a special election to be held no sooner than 60 days and not longer than 70 days after the vacancy occurred.  A board member elected at the special election will serve the remaining portion of the unexpired term.

 

 

Approved: 09-01-92              
Reviewed: 01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-9-98, 01-10-94, 11-12-01, 11-8-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  01-12-09, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:09

202.5 - Individual Authority

202.5 - Individual Authority

School districts of the public education system in Iowa are governed by an elected board of directors of the school corporation.  The board operates as a corporate body, and only the board may make decisions regarding the education program and operations of the school district.   Only the board has the power to take action affecting the school district.

Individual board members exercise their authority as a board member when they vote to take action at a board meeting.  Individual board members, alone, have no authority to make decisions or take action to affect the management of the school district.   Without the consent of the board, an individual board member has no authority to act on behalf of the school district or the school board.

It shall be the responsibility of each board member and the superintendent to educate the public, the staff, and the students of the board member's authority to take action that affects the school district only when voting in a board meeting.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92            
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14                       
Revised:  11-08-21                                                                

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:10

203 - Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest

203 - Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest

The board believes that individual board members should not be placed in a situation of having to choose between the welfare of the public school system and personal financial interests.  The mere existence of a temptation to dereliction of duty creates a conflict of interest.

Board members must be able to make decisions objectively.  It is a conflict of interest for a board member to receive direct compensation from the school district, unless exempted in this policy, for anything other than reimbursement of actual and necessary expenses, including travel, incurred in the performance of official duties.  A board member will not act as an agent for a school textbook or school supply company doing business with the school district during the board member's term of office.  It will not be a conflict of interest for board members to receive compensation from the school district for contracts to purchase goods or services if the benefit to the board member does not exceed $6,000 in a fiscal year or if the contracts are made by the board, upon competitive bid in writing, publicly invited and opened.

The conflict of interest provisions do not apply to a contract that is a bond, note or other obligation of a school corporation if the contract is not acquired directly from the school corporation, but is acquired in a transaction with a third party, who may or may not be the original underwriter, purchaser or obligee of the contract or to a contract in which a director has an interest solely by reason of employment if the contract was made by competitive bid, in writing, publicly invited and opened or if the remuneration for employment will not be directly affected as a result of the contract and duties of employment do not involve any of the preparation or procurement of any part of the contract.  The competitive bid section of the conflict of interest provision does not apply to a contract for professional services not customarily competitively bid.

It will also be a conflict of interest for a board member to engage in any outside employment or activity which is in conflict with the board member's official duties and responsibilities.  In determining whether outside employment or activity of a board member creates a conflict of interest, situations in which an unacceptable conflict of interest is deemed to exist includes, but are not limited to, any of the following:

(1)     The outside employment or activity involves the use of the school district's time, facilities, equipment, and supplies or the use of the school district badge, uniform, business card or other evidence of office to give the board member or member of the board member's immediate family an advantage or pecuniary benefit that is not available to other similarly situated members or classes of members of the general public.  For purposes of this section, a person is not "similarly situated" merely by being related to a board member.

(2)     The outside employment or activity involves the receipt of, promise of or acceptance of more or other consideration by the board member or a member of the board member's immediate family from anyone other than the state or the school district for the performance of any act that the board member would be required or expected to perform as part of the board member's regular duties or during the hours in which the board member performs service or work for the school district.

(3)     The outside employment or activity is subject to the official control, inspection, review, audit or enforcement authority of the board member, during the performance of the board member's duties of office or employment.

If the outside employment or activity is employment or activity in (1) or (2) above, the board member must cease the employment of or activity.  If the activity or employment falls under (3), then the board member must:

  • Cease the outside employment or activity; or,
  • Publicly disclose the existence of the conflict and refrain from taking any official action or performing any official duty that would detrimentally affect or create a benefit for the outside employment or activity.  Official action or official duty includes, but is not limited to, participating in any vote, taking affirmative action to influence any vote88 or providing any other official service or thing that is not available generally to members of the public in order to further the interests of the outside employment or activity.

It is the responsibility of each board member to be aware of an actual or potential conflict of interest. It is also the responsibility of each board member to take the action necessary to eliminate such a conflict of interest. Should a conflict of interest arise, a board member should not participate in any action relating to the issue from which the conflict arose.

 

 

Approved:        
Reviewed:       
Revised:  11-08-21 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:08

204 - Code of Ethics

204 - Code of Ethics

Board members, as public officials, should strive to perform all the duties of the office in an ethical manner.  In general, the board members should operate within the following code of ethics adopted by the Ruthven-Ayrshire School District Board of Directors as guidelines for board members.

Board members' actions, verbal and nonverbal, reflect the attitude and the beliefs of the school district.  Therefore, board members must conduct themselves professionally and in a manner fitting to their position.

Each board member shall follow the code of ethics stated in this policy.

AS A SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER:

  1. I will listen.
  2. I will respect the opinion of others.
  3. I will recognize the integrity of my predecessors and associates and the merit of their work.
  4. I will be motivated only by an earnest desire to serve my school district and the children of my school district community in the best possible way.
  5. I will not use the school district or any part of the school district program for my own personal advantage or for the advantage of my friends or supporters.
  6. I will vote for a closed session of the board if the situation requires it, but I will consider "star chamber" or "secret" sessions of board members unethical.
  7. I will recognize that to promise in advance of a meeting how I will vote on any proposition which is to be considered is to close my mind and agree not to think through other facts and points of view which may be presented in the meeting.
  8. I will expect, in board meetings, to spend more time on education programs and procedures than on business details.
  9. I will recognize that authority rests with the board in legal session and not with individual members of the board, except as authorized by law.
  10. I will make no disparaging remarks, in or out of the board meeting, about other members of the board or their opinions.
  11. I will express my honest and most thoughtful opinions frankly in board meetings in an effort to have decisions made for the best interests of the children and the education program.
  12. I will insist that the members of the board participate fully in board action and recommend that when special committees are appointed, they serve only in an investigative and advisory capacity.
  13. I will abide by majority decisions of the board.
  14. I will carefully consider petitions, resolutions, and complaints and will act in the best interests of the school district.
  15. I will not discuss the confidential business of the board in my home, on the street or in my office; the place for such discussion is the board meeting.
  16. I will endeavor to keep informed on local, state, and national educational developments of significance so I may become a better board member.

 

IN MEETING MY RESPONSIBILITY TO MY SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMUNITY

  1. I will consider myself a trustee of public education and will do my best to protect it, conserve it, and advance it, giving to the children of my school district community the educational facilities that are as complete and adequate as it is possible to provide.
  2. I will consider it an important responsibility of the board to interpret the aims, methods, and attitudes of the school district to the community.
  3. I will earnestly try to interpret the needs and attitudes of the school district community and do my best to translate them into the education program of the school district.
  4. I will attempt to procure adequate financial support for the school district.
  5. I will represent the entire school district rather than individual electors, patrons or groups.
  6. I will not regard the school district facilities as my own private property but as the property of the people.

 

IN MY RELATIONSHIP WITH SUPERINTENDENT AND EMPLOYEES

  1. I will function, in meeting the legal responsibility that is mine, as a part of a legislative, evaluative, policy-forming body, not as an administrative officer.
  2. I will recognize that it is my responsibility, together with that of my fellow board members, to see the school district is properly run and not to run them myself.
  3. I will expect the school district to be administered by the best-trained technical and professional people it is possible to procure within the financial resources of the school district.
  4. I will recognize the superintendent as executive officer of the board.
  5. I will work through the administrative employees of the board, not over or around them.
  6. I will expect the superintendent to keep the board adequately informed through oral and written reports.
  7. I will vote to employ employees only after the recommendation of the superintendent has been received.
  8. I will insist that contracts be equally binding on teachers and the board.
  9. I will give the superintendent power commensurate with the superintendent's responsibility and will not in any way interfere with, or seek to undermine, the superintendent's authority.
  10. I will give the superintendent friendly counsel and advice.
  11. I will present any personal criticism of employees to the superintendent.
  12. I will refer complaints to the proper administrative officer.

 

TO COOPERATE WITH OTHER SCHOOL BOARDS

  1. I will not employ a superintendent, principal or teacher who is already under contract with another school district without first securing assurance from the proper authority that the person can be released from contract.
  2. I will consider it unethical to pursue any procedure calculated to embarrass a neighboring board or its representatives.
  3. I will not recommend an employee for a position in another school district unless I would employ the employee under similar circumstances.
  4. I will answer all inquiries about the standing and ability of an employee to the best of my knowledge and judgment, with complete frankness.
  5. I will associate myself with board members of other school districts for the purpose of discussing school district issues and cooperating in the improvement of the education program.

 

 

Approved  7-1-92   
Reviewed 1-10-94, 11-11-96, 
11-9-98,12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 7-16-18
Revised 11-13-17, 11-12-01, 11-8-04, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 09:06

205 - Board Member Liability

205 - Board Member Liability dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:06

205.1 - Board Security and Protection

205.1 - Board Security and Protection

Public bodies must feel free to meet in the public setting as required by law without concern of risk of personal injury.  The board shall take whatever action is necessary to maintain an orderly board meeting, free from interference or interruption by spectators, and to keep the board members safe while complying with the open meetings law.

Individuals who threaten the board with violence or who are continuously disruptive may be asked to leave the meeting.  If the individuals do not leave, the board may have law enforcement officials escort the individuals. from the board meeting.  The board shall hire a security officer if the board members' concern for safety or actions by spectators warrants it.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-05-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised: 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:06

205.2 - Board Member Liability

205.2 - Board Member Liability

Board members shall not be held personally liable for actions taken in the performance of their duties and responsibilities vested in them by the laws of Iowa and the members of the school district community within the scope of their official duties.  In carrying out the duties and responsibilities of their office, board members shall act in good faith.

The school district shall defend, save harmless, and indemnify board members against tort claims or demands, whether groundless or otherwise, arising out of an alleged act or omission occurring within the scope of their duties, unless it constitutes a willful or wanton act or omission.    However, the school district shall not save harmless or indemnify board members for punitive damages.

 

 

Approved: 07-01-92              
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96,11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-04-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14           
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:07

206 - Officers

206 - Officers dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:58

206.1 - President

206.1 - President

It is the responsibility of the board president to lead a well-organized board in an efficient and effective manner.  The board president will set the tone of the board meetings and, as the representative of the consensus of the board, speak on behalf of the board to the public. 

The president of the board is elected to serve a one-year term by a majority vote at the organizational meeting in odd-numbered years or, in even-numbered years, at a regular meeting held between twelve to thirteen months after the most recent organizational meeting.

The president, in addition to presiding at the board meetings, will take an active role in board decisions by discussing and voting on each motion before the board in the same manner as other board members.  Before making or seconding a motion, the board president will turn over control of the meeting to either the vice-president or other board member.

The board president has the authority to call special meetings of the board.  Prior to board meetings, the board president will consult with the superintendent on the development of the agenda for the meeting.

The board president, as the chief officer of the school district, will sign employment contracts and sign other contracts and school district warrants approved by the board and appear on behalf of the school corporation in causes of action involving the school district.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-9-98, 11-12-01, 11-8-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:  01-12-09, 7-1-92

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:01

206.2 - Vice-President

206.2 - Vice-President

The vice-president of the board is elected by a majority vote at the organizational meeting in odd-numbered years or, in even-numbered years, at a regular meeting held between twelve to thirteen months after the most recent organizational meeting, to serve a one-year term of office.

By this election, if the board president is unable or unwilling to carry out the duties required, it is the responsibility of the vice-president of the board to carry out the duties of the president.  If the president is unable or unwilling to complete the term of office, the vice-president will serve as president for the balance of the president’s term of office, and a new vice-president will be elected.

The vice-president will accept control of the meeting from the president when the president wishes to make or second a motion.  The vice-president will take an active role in board decisions by discussing and voting on matters before the board in the same manner as other board members.

 

 

Approved:                              
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-9-98, 11-12-01, 11-18-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14              
Revised:, 7-1-92,01-12-09, 12-16-10, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 12:00

206.3 - Secretary

206.3 - Secretary

SECRETARY

It shall be the responsibility of the board to annually appoint a board secretary.

A board secretary may be appointed from school district employees, other than a position requiring a teaching certificate, or from the public.  To finalize the appointment, the board secretary shall take the oath of office during the meeting at which the individual was appointed or no later than ten days thereafter.  It is the responsibility of the board to evaluate the board secretary annually.  

It shall be the responsibility of the board secretary, as custodian of school district records, to preserve and maintain the records and documents pertaining to the business of the board; to keep complete minutes of special and regular board meetings, including closed meetings; to keep a record of the results of regular and special elections; to keep an accurate account of school funds; to sign warrants drawn on the school funds after board approval; and collect data on truant students.  The board secretary shall also be responsible for filing the required reports with the State Department of Education.

In the event the board secretary is unable to fulfill the responsibilities set out by the board and the law, a qualified appointee shall assume those duties until the board secretary is able to resume the responsibility or a new board secretary is appointed.

The board secretary shall be covered by the single blanket bond that covers the employees of the district.  The cost of the bond will be paid by the school district.  The board may appoint one person to serve as the secretary and the treasurer in which event, that individual will be accountable for the responsibilities of both the board secretary and board treasurer as set out in board policy.

Approved:  11-11-91

Reviewed:  11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-09-98,11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-12-11, 12-11-14

Revised:  01-10-94, 11-08-21, 8-21-24

 

                                         

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:59

206.4 - Treasurer

206.4 - Treasurer

It shall be the responsibility of the board to annually appoint a treasurer.  The board may appoint a treasurer from its employees, other than a position requiring a teaching certificate or from the public.  To finalize the appointment, the treasurer shall take the oath of office during the meeting at which the individual was appointed or no later than ten days thereafter.

The primary responsibility of the treasurer, as an appointed school officer, is to administer and maintain compliance with the law.  It will also be the responsibility of the treasurer to receive funds of the school corporation, to pay out the funds for expenses approved by the board, and to work with the secretary to coordinate the financial records, the financial reports, the cash flow needs, and the investment portfolio of the school district.

It shall be the responsibility of the treasurer to oversee the investment portfolio, to receive funds of the school district, to pay out the funds for expenses approved by the board, to maintain accurate accounting records for each fund, to report monthly regarding the investment portfolio and the status of each fund and to file required reports with the appropriate state agencies and other entities.

If the treasurer is unable or unwilling to carry out the duties required, it shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to carry out the duties of the treasurer until the treasurer is able to resume the responsibility or a new treasurer is appointed.

The treasurer shall give bond in the amount set by the board.  The cost of the bond will be paid by the school district.  The board may appoint one person to serve as the secretary and the treasurer in which event that individual will be accountable for the responsibilities of both the board secretary and board treasurer, as set forth in board policy

 

Approved:  12-16-92        
Reviewed:  11-11-91, 11-11-96, 11-9-98, 11-8-04, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 8-21-24
Revised:  01-10-94, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:58

207 - Board of Directors' Legal Counsel

207 - Board of Directors' Legal Counsel

It shall be the responsibility of the board to employ legal counsel to assist the board and the administration in carrying out their duties with respect to the numerous legal issues confronting the school district.  The board may appoint legal counsel at its annual meeting.

The superintendent shall have the authority to contact the board's legal counsel on behalf of the board when the superintendent believes it is necessary for the management of the school district.  The board president may contact and seek advice from the school board's legal counsel.  The board's legal counsel shall attend both regular and special school board meetings upon the request of the board or the superintendent.  Board members may contact legal counsel upon approval of a majority of the board.   It shall be the responsibility of each board member to pay the legal fees, if any, of an attorney the board member consulted regarding matters of the school district unless the board has authorized the board member to consult an attorney on the matter.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board informed of matters for which legal counsel was consulted, particularly if the legal services will involve unusual expense for the school district.

 

 

Approved:  06-14-93             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96,11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-04-04, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:                                                                     

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:57

208 - Board of Directors' Self-Evaluation

208 - Board of Directors' Self-Evaluation

Periodically, the board shall conduct an evaluation of itself. The goal of the self-evaluation is not to criticize fellow board members but rather to point out strengths as well as weaknesses.

The evaluation will focus on board policies, board meetings, education program, financial management, board members' personal qualities, and the board's relationship with the superintendent, employees, school district community, and students.

It shall be the responsibility of the board president to develop a board evaluation program.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:56

209 - Ad Hoc Committees

209 - Ad Hoc Committees dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:54

209.1 - Ad Hoc Committees

209.1 - Ad Hoc Committees

Whenever the board deems it necessary, the board may appoint a committee of the board made up of citizens, staff or students to assist the board. Committees formed by the board shall be ad hoc committees.

An ad hoc committee is formed by board resolution which shall outline the duties and purpose of the committee.  The committee is advisory in nature and has no duty or responsibility other than that specifically stated in the board resolution.  The committee shall automatically dissolve upon the delivery of its final recommendation to the board or upon completion of the duties outlined in the board resolution.  The board will receive the report of the committee for consideration.  The board retains the authority to make a final decision on the issue.  The committee may be subject to the open meetings law.

The board president shall appoint, or the board shall elect, the necessary members to the committee.  When possible, and when the necessary expertise required allows, the committee members will be representative of the school district community and shall consider the various viewpoints on the issue. The board may designate a board member and the superintendent to serve on an ad hoc committee. The committee will select its own chairperson, unless the board designates otherwise.

 

 

Approved:  08-09-93             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 10-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:54

209.1E1 - Ad Hoc Committees Exhibit

209.1E1 - Ad Hoc Committees Exhibit

Ad Hoc Committee Purpose and Function

The specific purpose of each ad hoc committee varies.  Generally, the primary function of an ad hoc committee is to give specific advice and suggestions. The advice and suggestions should focus on the purpose and duties stated in the board resolution establishing the committee.  It is the board's role to take action based on information received from the ad hoc committee and other sources. Ad hoc committees may be subject to the open meetings law.

 

Role of an Ad Hoc Committee Member

The primary role of an ad hoc committee member is to be a productive, positive member of the committee.   In doing so, it is important to listen to and respect the opinions of others.  When the ad hoc committee makes a recommendation to the board, it is important for the ad hoc committee members to support the majority decision of the ad hoc committee.  An ad hoc committee will function best when its members work within the committee framework and bring items of business to the ad hoc committee.

 

Ad Hoc Committee Membership

Ad hoc committee members are appointed by the board.  The board may request input from individuals or organizations, or it may seek volunteers to serve. Only the board or superintendent has the authority to appoint members to an ad hoc committee, Boards must follow the legal limitations or requirements regarding the membership of an ad hoc committee.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:55

210 - Management Procedures

210 - Management Procedures dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:46

210.1 - Development of Policy

210.1 - Development of Policy

The board will develop and maintain a policy manual that provides a codification of its policy actions.  Board policy provides the general direction as to what the board wishes to accomplish while allowing the superintendent to implement board policy.  Policies will be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure relevance to current practices and compliance with the law.

The written policy statements contained in this manual provide guidelines and goals to the citizens, administration, employees, and students in the school district community.   The policy statements shall be the basis for the formulation of regulations by the administration.   The board shall determine the effectiveness of the policy statements by evaluating periodic reports from the administration.

Policy statements may be proposed by a member of the board, administration, employees, students or other members of the school district community.  Proposed policy statements or ideas shall be submitted to the board through the superintendent's office for placement on the board agenda.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to bring these proposals to the attention of the board.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92                
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:52

210.2 - Adoption of Policy

210.2 - Adoption of Policy

ADOPTION OF POLICY 

The board shall give notice of proposed policy changes or adoption of new policies by placing the item on the agenda of one regular board meeting. The proposed policy changes shall be distributed and public comment will be allowed at the meeting prior to final board action. This notice procedure shall be required except for emergency situations. If the board adopts a policy in an emergency situation, a statement regarding the emergency and the need for immediate adoption of the policy shall be included in the minutes. The board shall have complete discretion to determine what constitutes an emergency situation. 

The final action taken to adopt the proposed policy shall be approved by a simple majority vote of the board at the meeting after allowing public discussion. The policy will be effective on the later of the date of passage or the date stated in the motion. 

In the case of an emergency, a new or changed policy may be adopted by a majority vote of a quorum of the board. The emergency policy shall expire at the close of the third regular meeting following the emergency action, unless the policy adoption procedure stated above is followed and the policy is reaffirmed. 

Approved: Reviewed: 01-10-94, 11-11-96, Revised: 7-1-92, 11-08-21, 11-09-08, 11-12-01, 11-04-04, 3-20-24

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:52

210.3 - Dissemination of Policy

210.3 - Dissemination of Policy

A board policy manual shall be housed in each school attendance center and in the administrative office.  Each board member shall have a personal copy of the board policy manual.  Persons wishing to review the board policy manual shall contact the board secretary, who shall have a board policy manual available for public inspection.

It shall be the responsibility of the board secretary to ensure copies of new and revised policy statements are distributed to the custodians of board policy manuals as soon as possible following the policy’s adoption.  Copies of changes in board policy shall also be attached to the minutes of the meetings in which the final action was taken to adopt the new or changed policy.

It shall be the responsibility of each board member, during the board member's term of office, to keep the manual current and up-to-date and to surrender the manual to the board secretary at the conclusion of the board member's term of office.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-04-01, 11-08-0412-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  07-01-92, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:50

210.4 - Suspension of Policy

210.4 - Suspension of Policy

Generally, the board shall follow board policy and enforce it equitably.  The board may, in extreme emergencies of a very unique nature, suspend policy.  It shall be within the discretion of the board to determine when an extreme emergency of a very unique nature exists.

Board policy shall not be suspended by the administration or employees.  Board policy may only be suspended by the board.  Reasons for suspension of board policy will be documented in board minutes.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14           
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:49

210.5 - Administration in the Absence of Policy

210.5 - Administration in the Absence of Policy

When there is no board policy in existence to provide guidance on a matter, the superintendent is authorized to act appropriately under the circumstances surrounding the situation keeping in mind the educational philosophy of the school district and financial condition of the school district.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to inform the board of the situation and the action taken and to document the action taken when necessary.  If needed, the superintendent shall draft a proposed policy for the board to discuss.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:48

210.6 - Review and Revision of Policy

210.6 - Review and Revision of Policy

The board shall, at least once every five years, review board policy.  Each year, the board may make a determination about the sections and/or series of the policy manual and the specific policies in the policy manual to be reviewed. Once the policy has been reviewed, even if no changes were made, a notation of the date of review shall be made on the face of the policy statement.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board informed as to legal changes at both the federal and state levels.  The superintendent shall also be responsible for bringing proposed policy statement revisions to the board's attention.

If a policy is revised because of a legal change over which the board has no control, the policy may be approved at one meeting at the discretion of the board.

 

 

Approved:  01-10-94           
Reviewed:  11-12-01, 11-8-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-13-00, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:47

210.7 - Adoption of Administrative Regulations

210.7 - Adoption of Administrative Regulations

Board policy sets the direction for the administration of the education program and school district operations.  Some policies require administrative regulations for implementation.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations to implement the board policies.  The regulations will be adopted by the board prior to their use in the school district.  At the time of adoption, the board will determine the effective date of the administrative regulation and the date the administrative regulation will be made available.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-11-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:  07-01-92

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:48

211 - Board of Directors' Meetings

211 - Board of Directors' Meetings dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:37

211.1 - Annual Meeting

211.1 - Annual Meeting

Each year after August 31 and prior to the organizational meeting of the board in odd-numbered years, the board will hold its annual meeting.

At the annual meeting, the board will examine the financial books and settle the secretary's and treasurer's statements for the fiscal year ending the preceding June 30.  As part of the annual reports, the treasurer will present affidavits from depository banks. 

The board may also appoint the board's legal counsel at the annual meeting.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  12-08-03, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:45

211.2 - Regular Meeting

211.2 - Regular Meeting

Regular meetings of the board shall be held monthly.  The dates, time, and place of regular meetings of the board shall be set by the board at the organizational meeting in odd-numbered years and at the annual meeting in even-numbered years.  Public notice of meetings shall be given and the meetings will be open to the public.

 

 

Approved:                              
Reviewed: 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14,
Revised:  01-14-02, 7-10-17, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:43

211.3 - Special Meeting

211.3 - Special Meeting

From time to time, it may be necessary to conduct a special meeting in addition to the regularly scheduled board meeting.  Special meetings may be called by the president of the board or by the board secretary at the request of a majority of the board.  Should a special meeting be called, individual notice to board members and public notice shall be given.

If the special meeting called is an emergency meeting and the board cannot give public notice in its usual manner, the board shall give public notice of the meeting as soon as practical and possible in light of the situation.  The reason for the emergency meeting and why notice in its usual manner could not be given shall be stated in the minutes.

Only the purpose or issue for which the special meeting was called may be discussed and decided in the special meeting.  The board shall strictly adhere to the agenda for the special meeting and action on other issues shall be reserved for the next scheduled regular board meeting.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-9-98, 11-12-01, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  7-1-92, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:43

211.4 - Work Sessions

211.4 - Work Sessions

The board, as a decision making body, is confronted with a continuing flow of problems, issues and needs which require action.  While the board is determined to expedite its business, it is also mindful of the importance of planning, brainstorming and thoughtful discussion without action.  Therefore, the board may schedule work sessions and retreats in order to provide its members and the administration with just such opportunities. The board has the authority to hire an outside facilitator to assist them in work sessions.

Topics for discussion and study will be announced publicly, and work sessions and retreats will be conducted in open session.  However, no board action will take place at the work session.

 

 

Approved:  08-09-93             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:                                                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:41

211.5 - Meeting Notice

211.5 - Meeting Notice

Public notice shall be given for meetings and work sessions held by the board. Public notice shall indicate the time, place, date, and tentative agenda of board meetings.  The public notice shall be posted on the bulletin board in the superintendent's office at least twenty-four hours before the meeting is scheduled to begin.

A copy of the public notice will be provided to those who have filed a request for notice with the secretary.  These requests for notice must be in writing and renewed annually.

In the case of special meetings, public notice shall be given in the same manner as for a regular meeting unless it is an emergency meeting.  In that case, public notice of the meeting shall be given as soon as practical and possible in light of the situation. The media and others who have requested notice shall be notified of the emergency meeting.  Attendance at a special meeting or emergency meeting by the media or other individuals shall constitute a waiver of notice by the attendee.

It shall be the responsibility of the board secretary to give public notice of board meetings and work sessions.

 

 

Approved:  7-01-92               
Reviewed:  11-11-96, 11-9-98, 11-12-01, 11-8-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:41

211.6 - Quorum

211.6 - Quorum

Action by the board regarding the affairs of the school district may be taken only when a quorum, a majority of the board members, is in attendance at the board meeting.

While board members are encouraged to attend board meetings, four members shall constitute a quorum and are a sufficient number to transact business of the school district. The adjournment of a meeting may be executed without a quorum.

An affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast shall be sufficient to pass a motion or take action unless law or board policy requires a vote of a greater number.

It is the responsibility of each board member to attend board meetings.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Revised:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised: 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:37

211.7 - Rules of Order

211.7 - Rules of Order

An orderly board meeting allows the board members to participate in the discussion and decision process on an issue confronting the school district. Rules of order for board meetings allow school district business and the relative information concerning the business to be brought to the attention of the board.  They also allow the board to discuss, act upon, and make a clear record of school district business in a regular, ordered, reasonable, and consistent manner.

The board will follow Robert’s Rules of Order, Revised, latest edition as modified by this policy and subsequent rule.

The purpose of modified rules adopted by the board is:

  • To establish guidelines by which the business of the governing board can be conducted in a regular and internally consistent manner;
  • To organize the meetings so all necessary matters can be brought to the board and decisions of the board can be made in an orderly and reasonable manner;
  • To ensure members of the board, concentrating on the substantive issues at hand, have the necessary information to make decisions, and to ensure adequate discussion of decisions to be made; and,
  • To ensure meetings and actions of the board are conducted so as to be informative to the staff and the public, and to produce a clear record of actions taken and decisions made.

It shall be the responsibility of each board member to follow the rules of order stated in this policy at each meeting, and it shall be the responsibility of the presiding officer to conduct the board meeting within these rules.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:39

211.7R1 - Rules of Order Regulation

211.7R1 - Rules of Order Regulation

Unless otherwise stated, the following rules of procedure have been adopted by the board:

1.   Board members need not rise to gain the recognition of the chair.                                               

2.   All motions will be made as a positive action.                                                                

3.   A motion will be adopted or carried if it receives an affirmative vote from more than half of the votes cast.  Only "yes" and "no" votes are counted in this calculation.  It should be noted that some motions require larger numbers of affirmative votes, such as to move into a closed session.      

4.   All motions shall receive a second, prior to opening the issue for discussion of the board.  If a motion does not receive a second, the chair may declare the motion dead for lack of a second.           

5.   The chair may decide the order in which board members will be recognized to address an issue. An attempt should be made to alternate between pro and con positions.                               

6.   The chair shall rule on all motions that come before the board.                                     

7.   The chair may rule on points of order brought before the board.                                                 

8.   The chair shall have complete authority to recognize any member of the audience regarding a request to participate in the board meeting.  Members of the public who wish to participate shall follow board procedures.                                                                                                             

9.   The chair has the authority to declare a recess at any time for the purpose of restoring decorum to the meeting.

10. The chair has the same authority and responsibility as each board member to vote on all issues.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:40

211.8 - Method of Voting

211.8 - Method of Voting

In keeping with the public nature of the meeting, votes by the board, except those required by law to be roll call, shall be by voice vote of "aye" or "nay" unless a board member requests a roll call vote.

It shall be the responsibility of the board secretary to record the  votes of board members in the minutes of the board meetings.

 

 

Approved:   07-01-92            
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 012-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:38

212 - Open Meetings

212 - Open Meetings

A gathering of a majority of board members in which deliberation of an issue within the jurisdiction of the board takes place is a board meeting.  A gathering for the purpose of social or ministerial action shall not constitute a board meeting unless a discussion of policy takes place.  Meetings of the board shall be conducted in an open meeting unless a closed session is authorized by law or the meeting is exempt from the open meetings law.

 

 

Approved:  08-09-93             
Reviewed  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-94, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:35

213 - Closed Sessions

213 - Closed Sessions

Generally, board meetings shall be open meetings, unless a closed session or exempt meeting is provided for by law.  The board shall hold a closed session or exempt meeting in the situations stated below.

Exceptions to the Open Meetings Law

Closed sessions take place as part of an open meeting.  The item for discussion in the closed session shall be listed as part of the tentative agenda on the public notice.  The motion for a closed session, stating the purpose for the closed session, shall be made and seconded during the open meeting.  A minimum of two-thirds of the board, or all of the board members present, must vote in favor of the motion on a roll call vote.  Closed sessions shall be audio recorded and have detailed minutes kept by the board secretary.  Final action on matters discussed in the closed session shall be taken in an open meeting.

The minutes and the audio recording will restate the motion made in the open meeting, the roll call vote, the members present, and the time the closed session began and ended.  The audio recordings and the written minutes shall be kept for one year from the date of the meeting.  Real estate related minutes and tapes will be made public after the real estate transaction is completed.

The detailed minutes and audio recording shall be sealed and shall not be public records open to public inspection.  The minutes and audio recording shall only be available to the board members or opened upon court order in an action to enforce the requirements of the open meetings law.  The board has complete discretion as to who may be present at a closed session.

The reasons for which the board may go into a closed session from an open meeting include, but are not limited to, the following:

1.   To review or discuss records which are required or authorized by state or federal law to be kept confidential or to be kept confidential as a condition for the school district's possession or receipt of federal funds.

2.   To discuss strategy with legal counsel in matters presently in litigation or where litigation is imminent where its disclosure would be likely to prejudice or disadvantage the position of the school district .

3.   To discuss whether to conduct a hearing or to conduct hearings to suspend or expel a student, unless an open session is requested by the student or the parent or guardian of the student if the student is a minor.

4.   To evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, hiring, performance or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual's reputation and that individual requests a closed session.

5.   To discuss the purchase or sale of particular real estate only when premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the school district would have to pay for that property or reduce the price the school district would receive for that property.

Exemptions to the Open Meetings Law

Board meetings at which a quorum is not present, or gatherings of the board for purely ministerial or social purposes when there is no discussion of policy or no intent to avoid the purposes of the open meetings law, are exempt from the open meetings law requirements.  Since gatherings of this type are exempt from the open meetings requirements, they can be held without public notice, be separate from an open meeting, be held without audio recording the gathering or taking minutes, and be held without a vote or motion.  The board may also hold an exempt session for the following:

1.   Negotiating sessions, strategy meetings of public employers or employee organizations, mediation, and the deliberative process of arbitration;

2.   To discuss strategy in matters relating to employment conditions of employees not covered by the collective bargaining law;

3.   To conduct a private hearing relating to the recommended termination of a non-probationary teacher's contract.   The board will keep a record of the private hearing.

4.   To conduct a private conference with a probationary teacher to discuss the reasons for the board’s termination of the probationary teacher’s contract.

5.   To conduct an informal, private hearing relating to the recommended termination of an extracurricular contract prior to the expiration of that contract.

6.   To conduct a private conference with a probationary administrator to discuss the reasons for the board’s termination of the probationary administrator’s contract or to review the proposed decision of the administrative law judge regarding the termination of a non-probationary administrator’s contract.

 

 

Approved:  08-09-93             
Reviewed:  11-11-96, 11-09-98, 1-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:34

214 - Meeting Agendas

214 - Meeting Agendas dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:32

214.1 - Board Meeting Agenda

214.1 - Board Meeting Agenda

The tentative agenda for each board meeting shall state the topics for discussion and action at the board meeting.     The agenda is part of the public notice of the board meeting and will be posted and distributed.

Persons wishing to place an item on the agenda must make a written request to the superintendent prior to the drafting of the tentative agenda.            The person making the request must state the person's name, address, purpose of the presentation, action desired, and pertinent background information. Requests from the public may be added to the tentative agenda at the discretion of the superintendent after consultation with the board president.  Requests received after the deadline may only be added to the agenda for good cause.

The tentative agenda and supporting documents shall be sent to the board members prior to the scheduled board meeting.  These documents are the private property of the board member.  Persons wishing to view the tentative agenda and supporting documents may do so at the administration office.

The board shall take action only on the items listed on the tentative agenda posted with the public notice. Items added to the agenda may be discussed or taken under advisement by the board.  If an added item is acted upon, the minutes of the board meeting shall state the reason for immediate action.

It shall be the responsibility of the board president and superintendent to develop the agenda for each board meeting.

           

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:32

214.2 - Consent Agenda

214.2 - Consent Agenda

Very often the board must consider agenda items which are noncontroversial or similar in content.  Such agenda items might include ministerial tasks such as, but not limited to, the approval of the agenda, approval of previous minutes, approval of bills, approval of reports, etc.  These items might also include similar groups of decisions such as, but not limited to, approval of staff contracts, approval of maintenance details for the school buildings and grounds or approval of various schedules.

In order for a more efficient administration of board meetings, the board may elect to use a consent agenda for the passage of such noncontroversial items or items of a similar nature.

The superintendent in consultation with the board president and board secretary shall place items on the consent agenda.    By using a consent agenda, the board has consented to the consideration of certain items as a group under one resolution.  Should a consent agenda be used, each item will be allowed sufficient discussion time to review the item.  Items may be removed from the consent agenda by a proper motion.

Nothing in this policy is to be construed as an attempt to avoid full compliance with laws dealing with open meetings or public notice of the agenda and meeting.

 

 

Approved:  06-14-93             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:33

215 - Public Participation in Board Meetings

215 - Public Participation in Board Meetings

The board recognizes the importance of citizen participation in school district matters.  In order to assure citizens are heard and board meetings are conducted efficiently and in an organized manner, the board will set aside a specific time for public comment.

 

Public Comment During Board Meetings 

Citizens wishing to address the board during public comment must notify the board secretary prior to the board meeting. The board president will recognize these individuals to make their comments at the appropriate time during public comment.  Citizens wishing to present petitions to the board may also do so at this time.  The board however, will only receive the petitions and not act upon them or their contents.

The board has the discretion to limit the amount of time set aside for public participation. Normally, speakers will be limited to 3 minutes with a total allotted time for public participation of 30 minutes.  However, the board president may modify this time limit, if deemed appropriate or necessary.  Public comment is a time set aside for community input, but the board will not discuss or take any action on any matter during public comment. 

Public comment shall be limited to regular board meetings and will not be routinely held during special board meetings.

 

Petitions to Place a Topic on the Agenda

Individuals who wish for an item to be placed on the board agenda may submit a valid petition to the board.  For a petition to be valid, it must be signed by at least 500 eligible electors of the district, or ten percent of the individuals who voted in the last school election, whichever number is lower.

Upon receiving a valid petition to the board to place a proposal on the next board agenda for public hearing, the board will place the proposal identified in the petition on the agenda of the next regular meeting, or a special meeting held within 30 days of receipt of the petition.  The board will provide a sign-up sheet for all individuals who wish to speak on the proposal, and individuals will be called to speak in order of sign-up.  The sign-up sheet will require each individual to list their legal name and mailing address.  Each speaker will be limited to an amount of time established by the board president that is reasonable and necessary based on the number of speakers signed up.  The same time limit will apply to all speakers on the proposal.  Each individual will be limited to one opportunity to speak.  The board maintains absolute discretion on whether or not to discuss or act on the public comments made on the proposal. If a petition is related to curriculum, the district maintains discretion to determine whether to stop teaching that curriculum until the board holds the public hearing to discuss the curriculum.

The board has a significant interest in maintaining the decorum of its meetings, and it is expected that members of the public and the board will address each other with civility.  The orderly process of the board meeting will not be interfered with or disrupted by public comment.  Only individuals recognized by the board president will be allowed to speak.  Comments by others are out of order.  If disruptive, the individual causing disruption may be asked to leave the board meeting.  Defamatory comments may be subject to legal action. 

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-11-14          
Revised:  12-11-11, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:28

215.1 - Public Complaints

215.1 - Public Complaints

The board recognizes situations may arise in the operation of the school district which are of concern to parents and other members of the school district community. 

The board firmly believes concerns should be resolved at the lowest organizational level by those individuals closest to the concern.  Whenever a complaint or concern is brought to the attention of the board it will be referred to the administration to be resolved.  Prior to board action however, the following should be completed:

  1. Matters should first be addressed to the teacher or employee.
  2. Unsettled matters from (a) above or problems and questions about individual attendance centers should be addressed to the employee's building principal.
  3. Unsettled matters from (b) above or problems and questions concerning the school district should be directed to the superintendent.
  4. If a matter cannot be settled satisfactorily by the superintendent, it may then be brought to the board for consideration.  To bring a concern, the individual shall notify the board president or board secretary in writing, who may bring it to the attention of the entire board.

It is within the discretion of the board to address complaints from the members of the school district community and the board will only consider whether to address complaints if they are in writing, signed, and the complainant has complied with this policy.  The board is not obligated to address a complaint and may defer to the decision of the superintendent.  If the board elects not to address a complaint, the decision of the superintendent shall be final.  If the board does elect to address a complaint, its decision shall be final.

 

 

Approved:  06-14-93             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised7-8-19, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:29

216 - Public Hearings

216 - Public Hearings

Public hearings may be held by the board on school district matters at the discretion of the board.  Public notice of a public hearing shall be in the same manner as for a board meeting except that the notice shall be given ten days before the hearing is to be held unless it is impossible or impractical to do so.

At public hearings, citizens of the school district who register at the door will be allowed to speak on the issue for which the public hearing is being held.  Others may be allowed to speak at the board's discretion. Speakers are asked to keep their remarks as brief as possible.  Prior to the beginning of the hearing, speakers and spectators will be apprised of the rules of order to be followed regarding time limitations, questions, remarks, and rebuttals.  In no event will a speaker be allowed to take the time of another speaker.

The board shall conduct public hearings in an orderly fashion.  At the beginning of the hearing, statements, background materials, and public hearing rules and procedures will be presented by the board chair.  The chair will recognize the speakers.  Only those speakers recognized by the chair will be allowed to speak. Comments by others are out of order.  Individuals who interfere with or interrupt speakers, the board, or the proceedings shall be asked to leave.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:27

217 - Board of Directors and Other Officials

217 - Board of Directors and Other Officials dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 10:01

217.1 - Board of Directors and Superintendent

217.1 - Board of Directors and Superintendent

The superintendent is hired by the board as the chief executive officer of the board to manage the day-to-day operation of the school district.  The board shall set policy to guide the superintendent and shall not be involved in the day-to-day operations of the school district.

The superintendent shall work closely with the board, particularly the board president, to carry out and implement the policies of the board, to advise the board, to provide information to the board, to offer alternative solutions to the board in the form of a recommendation, and to do other duties as the board determines.

The superintendent shall attend each board meeting unless excused by the board president.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:   01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:22

217.2 - Board of Directors and Employees

217.2 - Board of Directors and Employees

School employees will be utilized for their expertise to provide information to the board and to take part on advisory committees when necessary.

The board must remain objective about each employee.  Employees who have concerns should have their initial contact with their building principal.  If the employee's concerns are unsatisfied, the next step is the superintendent. The board shall only become involved with employee issues when the board is acting on a recommendation of the superintendent in the employment of employees or when the board is considering the termination of an employee.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14           
Revised:  07-01-92, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:23

217.3 - Board of Directors and Adjoining District Board of Directors

217.3 - Board of Directors and Adjoining District Board of Directors

The board may work with adjoining school district boards to provide additional opportunities in the school district's education programs as well as to operate the school district more economically and efficiently.   As part of this joint effort, the board shall pay particular attention to opportunities to share students, programs and employees.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:25

217.4 - Board of Directors and Area Education Agency

217.4 - Board of Directors and Area Education Agency

The board shall utilize the resources of the Area Education Agency (AEA) such as educational materials and staff resources, particularly in the area of special education.  Support may include, but not be limited to, school psychologists; speech therapists; nurses; physicians; dentists; and aides who work directly with students in the educational process.

The board may also utilize the AEA to work with other school districts in the region for program offerings as well as purchase of supplies.

 

 

Approved:   7-1-92                
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:   01-10-05, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:24

217.5 - Board of Directors and Elected Officials

217.5 - Board of Directors and Elected Officials

Being aware of, and expressing their opinion on, proposed law revisions and new laws is essential to maintaining and creating an education program to meet the needs of the school district community.

It shall be the responsibility of the board to maintain contact with the elected official representing the school district.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to assist the board in keeping up-to-date on proposed laws and in contacting the elected officials who represent the school district.

 

 

Approved:   ll-8-93                
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14           
Revised:  11-08-21                                                    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 11:21

218 - Board of Directors' Records

218 - Board of Directors' Records

The board shall keep and maintain permanent records of the board including, but not limited to, records of the minutes of board meetings and other required records of the board.

A complete and accurate set of minutes of each regular and special board meeting will be kept to comply with all legal requirements. It shall be the responsibility of the board secretary to keep the minutes of the board meetings.  The minutes of each board meeting shall include, at a minimum, the following items:  a record of the date, time, place, members present, action taken, and the vote of each member, and the schedule of bills allowed will be attached.  Minutes leading to a closed session shall include the vote of each member on the question of holding the closed session and the reason for the closed session, but the statement of such reason need not state in the minutes the name of any individual or the details of the matter discussed in the closed session.

This information shall be furnished within two weeks of the board meeting and forwarded to the newspaper designated as the official newspaper for publication.  The information does not need to be published within two weeks. The schedule of bills allowed may be published on a once monthly basis in lieu of publication with the minutes. A copy of the minutes shall be sent to each member of the board before the next regularly scheduled meeting. 

Minutes shall be kept in an official record book specified for that purpose and shall be kept on file as the official record of legislation of the school district and shall be open to public inspection.  Examination of the official record book by any citizen or group of citizens must be made at the location where the school district maintains the records and under the jurisdiction of the board secretary.

A complete and accurate set of minutes will be made of each meeting and/or session of the board as required by law.  A complete and accurate set of minutes and complete audio recordings will be made of each closed session of the board as required by law.  The board secretary will be custodian of the minutes and audio recordings from a closed session, which shall be maintained as required by law.

 

 

Approved:  08-09-93             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 10:00

219 - Board of Directors Training and Compensation

219 - Board of Directors Training and Compensation dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 09:46

219.1 - Association Membership

219.1 - Association Membership

Participation in board member associations is beneficial to the board.  The board may maintain an active membership in the Iowa Association of School Boards and in organizations the board determines will be of benefit to the board and the school district.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 09:58

219.2 - Board of Directors' Member Development and Training

219.2 - Board of Directors' Member Development and Training

The board may participate in conferences sponsored by educational associations and agencies in addition to its own in-service programs and work sessions.

The board may work closely with the Iowa Association of School Boards' Academy of Board Learning Experiences and encourage the board members to participate in conferences to achieve the Better Boardsmanship Award.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07. 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised: 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 09:57

219.3 - Board of Directors Compensation and Expense

219.3 - Board of Directors Compensation and Expense

As an elected public official, the board member is a public servant who serves without compensation.  Board members shall be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.

Prior to reimbursement of actual and necessary expenses, the board member must submit a detailed receipt in addition to a credit card receipt indicating the date, purpose, and nature of the expense for each claim item.  Failure to provide a detailed receipt shall make the expense a personal expense.  Personal expenses shall be reimbursed by the board member to the school district no later than thirty days from the time of submission.  In exceptional circumstances, the board may allow a claim without proper receipt.  Written documentation explaining the exceptional circumstances shall be maintained as part of the school district’s record of the claim.

It shall be the responsibility of the board secretary to compile the expenses of board members and bring them to the board for audit and approval in the same manner as other claims of the school district.  It shall be the responsibility of the board to determine through the audit and approval process of the board whether the expenses incurred by a board member are actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-9-98, 12-12-01, 11-8-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14
Revised:  02-14-11, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 09:52

219.4 - New Board of Directors' Member Orientation

219.4 - New Board of Directors' Member Orientation

It is the responsibility of the board to educate new board members of the duties of their position.  To acquaint new board members with the duties and role of the board of directors, each new board member may meet with the superintendent and the board secretary to become familiar with the responsibilities and the role of being a board member for the school district.  New board members shall have an opportunity to attend the IASB Academy of Board Learning Experience Program.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure that new board members have an opportunity to attend an orientation conference or meet with the superintendent.   It shall also be the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure that each new board member has necessary documents and board materials.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-9-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 09:55

219.5 - Activity Passes for Board Members

219.5 - Activity Passes for Board Members

In recognition of the great amount of time, energy, and talent as well as the interest of board members in the school district, present board members and their guest shall receive activity passes to school-sponsored activities.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure board members and their guests receive activity passes.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-07-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 09:53

220 - School Visitation by Board of Directors

220 - School Visitation by Board of Directors

Board members are always welcome to visit the school building to observe the operations of the school district.  Board members shall notify the central administrative office when they are in the building for board-related business.

It shall be the responsibility of each board member to check in with the central administrative office when they are in the building for board-related business.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-12-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14,11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 09:23

221 - Gifts to Board of Directors

221 - Gifts to Board of Directors

Board members may receive a gift on behalf of the school district.  Board members shall not, either directly or indirectly, solicit, accept or receive a gift, series of gifts or an honorarium unless the donor does not meet the definition of "restricted donor" stated below or the gift or honorarium does not meet the definition of gift or honorarium stated below.

A "restricted donor" is defined as a person or other entity which:

  • Is seeking to be or is a party to any one or any combination of sales, purchases, leases or contracts to, from or with the school district;
  • Will be directly and substantially affected financially by the performance or nonperformance of the board member's official duty in a way that is greater than the effect on the public generally or on a substantial class of persons to which the person belongs as a member of a profession, occupation, industry or region; or
  • Is a lobbyist or a client of a lobbyist with respect to matters within the school district's jurisdiction.

A "gift" is the giving of anything of value in return for which something of equal or greater value is not given or received.      However, "gift" does not include any of the following:

  • Contributions to a candidate or a candidate's committee;
  • Information material relevant to a board member's official function, such as books, pamphlets, reports, documents, periodicals or other information that is recorded in a written, audio or visual format;
  • Anything received from a person related within the fourth degree by kinship or marriage, unless the donor is acting as an agent or intermediary for another person not so related;
  • An inheritance;
  • Anything available or distributed to the general public free of charge without regard to the official status of the board recipient;
  • Items received from a charitable, professional, educational or business organization to which the board member belongs as a dues paying member if the items are given to all members of the organization without regard to an individual member's status or positions held outside- of the organization and if the dues paid are not inconsequential when compared to the items received;        
  • Actual expenses of a board member for food, beverages, travel and lodging for a meeting, which is given in return for participation in a panel or speaking engagement at the meeting when the expenses relate directly to the day or days on which the board member has participation or presentation responsibilities;
  • Plaques or items of negligible resale value given as recognition for public service;
  • Nonmonetary items with a value of less than three dollars that are received from any one donor during one calendar day;
  • Items or services solicited or given to a state, national or regional organization in which the state of Iowa or a school district is a member for purposes of a business or educational conference, seminar or other meeting or solicited by or given to state, national or regional government organizations whose memberships and officers are primarily composed of state or local government officials or employees for purposes of a business or educational conference, seminar or other meeting;
  • Items or services received by members or representatives of members as part of a regularly scheduled event that is part of a business or educational conference, seminar or other meeting that is sponsored and directed by any state, national or regional government organization in which the state of Iowa or a political subdivision of the state of Iowa is a member or received at such an event by members or representatives of members of state, national or regional government organizations whose memberships and officers are primarily composed of state or local government officials or employees;
  • Funeral flowers or memorials to a church or nonprofit organization;
  • Gifts which are given to a public official for the public official's wedding or twenty-fifth or fiftieth wedding anniversary;
  • Payment of salary or expenses by a board member's employer or the firm in which the board member is a member for the cost of attending a meeting of a subunit of an agency when the board member whose expenses are being paid serves on a board, commission, committee, council or other subunit of the agency and the board member is not entitled to receive compensation or reimbursement of expenses from the school district;
  • Gifts other than food, beverages, travel and lodging received by a board member which are received from a person who is a citizen of a country other than the United States and is given during a ceremonial presentation or as a result of a custom of the other country and is of personal value only to the board member; or
  • Actual registration costs for informational meetings or sessions which assist a public official or public employee in the performance of the person's official functions.  The costs of food,  drink, lodging and travel are not "registration costs" under this paragraph.  Meetings or sessions which a public official or public employee attends for personal or professional licensing purposes are not "informational meetings or sessions which assist a public official or public employee in the performance of the person's official functions" under this paragraph.

An "honorarium" is anything of value that is accepted by, or on behalf of, a board member as consideration for an appearance, speech or article.  An honorarium does not include any of the following:

  • Actual expenses of a board member for registration, food, beverages, travel or lodging for a meeting, which is given in return for participation in a panel or speaking engagement at a meeting when the expenses relate directly to the day or days on which the board member has participation or presentation responsibilities;                                                                     
  • A nonmonetary gift or series of nonmonetary gifts donated within thirty days to a public body, an educational or charitable organization or the department of general services; or
  • A payment made to a board member for services rendered as part of a private business, trade or profession in which the board member is engaged if the payment is commensurate with the actual services rendered and is not being made because of the person's status as a board member but, rather, because of some special expertise or other qualification.

It shall be the responsibility of each board member to know when it is appropriate to accept or reject gifts or honorariums.

 

 

Approved:
Reviewed:  11-11-96, 11-09-98, 11-12-01, 11-08-04, 12-10-07, 12-12-11, 12-11-14, 11-08-21
Revised:  09-20-94

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/08/2021 - 09:25

300 - ADMINISTRATION

300 - ADMINISTRATION Jen@iowaschool… Tue, 11/23/2021 - 07:53

300 - Role of School District Administration

300 - Role of School District Administration

In this series of the board policy manual, the board defines the role and the employment of school district administrators. Policies  400 Series, "Employees,” also apply to administrators unless a more specific policy exists in the 300 Series, “Administration.”

School district administrators have been given a great opportunity and responsibility to manage the school district, to provide the educational leadership, and to implement the educational philosophy of the school district.  They are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the school district.   In carrying out these operations, the administrators are guided by board policies, the law, the needs of the students, and the wishes of the citizens in the school district community.

It shall be the responsibility of the administrators to implement and enforce the policies of the board, to oversee employees, to monitor educational issues confronting the school district, and to inform the board about school district operations.

While the board holds the superintendent ultimately responsible for these duties, the principals are more directly responsible for educational results and for the administration of the school facilities and for the employees.

The board and the administration shall work together to share information and decisions under the management team concept.

 

 

Approved:                              
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 12-9-96, 01-11-99, 01-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15
Revised:  07-01-92, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 16:05

301 - Administrative Structure

301 - Administrative Structure dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 16:04

301.1 - Management

301.1 - Management

The board and the administrators shall work together in making decisions and setting goals for the school district.  This effort is designed to obtain, share, and use information to solve problems, make decisions, and formulate school district policies and regulations.

It shall be the responsibility of each administrator to fully participate in the management of the school district by investigating, analyzing, and expressing their views on issues.  Those board members or administrators with special expertise or knowledge of an issue will be called upon to provide information.  Each board member and administrator shall support the decisions reached on the issues confronting the school district.

The board shall be responsible for making the final decision in matters pertaining to the school district.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop guidelines for cooperative decision-making.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  01-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-18, 3-1-11, 7-13-15       
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 16:06

301.2 - Administrative Team

301.2 - Administrative Team

The board considers all those who have a role in the recruitment or release of employees to be part of the management team.  The management team shall be headed by the superintendent.  The superintendent shall convene meetings to discuss school district policies, administrative procedures and other business brought to the superintendent's attention.

The management team shall meet with the board upon the board's request or superintendent recommendation to review overall operations of the school district and conditions affecting the management team.   It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to arrange for regularly scheduled meetings and for the agenda of such meetings for the management team.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 16:04

302 - Administration Relationships

302 - Administration Relationships dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:57

302.1 - Administration and Board of Directors

302.1 - Administration and Board of Directors

The superintendent, as the chief executive officer of the board, shall work with the board, particularly the board president, to keep the board informed of school district operations.  The board shall maintain contact with other administrators through the superintendent.

The administrators and other administrative employees shall work with the board through the superintendent.   The administrators, in working with the board, shall assist the board by gathering information, informing the board of school district operations, implementing board policy, making recommendations and answering requests of the board.

The superintendent, unless excused by the board president, and the principals, unless excused by the superintendent, shall attend each board meeting.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed: 1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised:        

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:58

302.2 - Administration and Employees

302.2 - Administration and Employees

As managers of the school district, the administrators shall recommend the employment of employees, supervise them, and evaluate their performance.  Concerns or requests by employees shall first be reported to their direct supervisor for resolution.  It shall be the responsibility of the administrators to resolve complaints and handle requests.

It shall be the responsibility of the administration to foster a positive attitude and to promote a cooperative effort among employees.  It shall also be the responsibility of the administration to prevent misunderstandings within the school district and the community.  It shall be the responsibility of each administrator to provide leadership to the employees and it shall be the responsibility of each school district employee to work cooperatively with the administrators to accomplish the educational philosophy of the school district.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 16:07

302.3 - Administration and Adjoining District Administration

302.3 - Administration and Adjoining District Administration

Efficiency and economies may be achieved by working with adjoining school districts in offering education programs, offering in-service activities or programs and sharing employees. The administrator shall consider and explore opportunities to work with the adjoining school district to expand the opportunities for the students and personnel in the school district.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:59

302.4 - Administration and Area Education Agency

302.4 - Administration and Area Education Agency

The administration shall utilize the resources of the Area Education Agency (AEA) choosing to participate in programs which meet the needs of the school district.  This includes utilizing educational materials and staff resources.

The administration may also utilize the AEA to facilitate regional programming and cooperation as well as to purchase supplies.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to coordinate activities with the AEA.

 

 

Approved: 7-1-92      
Reviewed:  12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised:  3-11-02

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 16:01

303 - Superintendent

303 - Superintendent dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:49

303.1 - Superintendent Qualifications, Recruitment, Appointment

303.1 - Superintendent Qualifications, Recruitment, Appointment

The board will employ a superintendent to serve as the chief executive officer of the board, to conduct the daily operations of the school district, and to implement board policy with the power and duties prescribed by the board and the law.

The board will consider applicants that meet or exceed the standards set by the Iowa Department of Education and the qualifications established in the job description for the superintendent position. In employing a superintendent, the board will consider the qualifications, credentials and records of the applicants without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or disability.  The board will consider the veteran status of the applicants. The board will look closely at the training, experience, skill and demonstrated competence of qualified applicants in making its final decision.

In choosing a superintendent, the board will also consider the school district's educational philosophy, financial situation, organizational structure, education programs, and other factors deemed relevant by the board.

The board may contract for assistance in the search for a superintendent.

 

 

 Approved:  08-13-07             
Reviewed:  4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15              
Revised:  11-08-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 16:03

303.2 - Superintendent Contract and Contract Renewal

303.2 - Superintendent Contract and Contract Renewal

The length of the contract for employment between the superintendent and the board shall be determined by the board and stated in the superintendent’s contract.  The contract will begin on July 1 and end on June 30.  The contract shall state the terms of the employment.

The first three years of a contract issued to a newly employed superintendent shall be considered a probationary period.  The board may extend the probationary period for an additional year with the consent of the superintendent.  In the event of termination of a probationary or non-probationary contract, the board shall afford the superintendent appropriate due process, including notice by May 15The superintendent and board may mutually agree to terminate the superintendent's contract at any time.

If a superintendent's contract is not being renewed by the board, the contract will be extended automatically for additional one-year periods beyond the end of its term until it is modified or terminated as mutually agreed to by the parties or until the superintendent's contract is terminated consistent with statutory termination procedures.

It shall be the responsibility of the board to provide the contract for the position of superintendent.

If the superintendent wishes to resign, to be released from a contract or to retire, the superintendent must comply with applicable law and board policies.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96,1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15,
Revised:  9-20-17, 11-08-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:55

303.3 - Superintendent Salary and Other Compensation

303.3 - Superintendent Salary and Other Compensation

The board has complete discretion to set the salary of the superintendent.  It shall be the responsibility of the board to set the salary and benefits of the superintendent at a level that will include consideration of, but not be limited to, the economic condition of the school district and the training, experience, skill, and demonstrated competence of the superintendent.  The salary shall be set at the beginning of each contract term and included in each contract.

In addition to the salary and benefits, the superintendent's actual and necessary expenses shall be paid by the school district when the superintendent is performing work-related duties.  It shall within the discretion of the board to pay dues to professional organizations for the superintendent.

The board shall approve the payment of dues and other benefits or compensation over and above the superintendent's contract.  Approval of dues and other benefits or compensation shall be included in the records of the board in accordance with board policy.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15
Revised:  11-08-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 16:02

303.4 - Superintendent Duties

303.4 - Superintendent Duties

The board employs a superintendent of schools to serve as the chief executive officer of the board. The board delegates to the superintendent the authority to implement board policy and to execute decisions made by the board concerning the internal operations of the school district, unless specifically stated otherwise.  The superintendent shall be vested with the necessary authority and be provided the appropriate personnel to carry out the responsibilities of the position.

The superintendent is responsible for the implementation and execution of board policy and the observance of board policy by employees and students. The superintendent is responsible for overall supervision and discipline of employees and the education program.

The superintendent shall attend all meetings of the board.  The superintendent may provide the board with information, advice, and recommendations, but shall not vote.

In executing the above-stated duties, the superintendent will consider the financial situation of the school district as well as the needs of the students.

The specific responsibilities of the superintendent include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Interprets and implements all board policies and all state and federal laws relevant to education;
  • Supervises, either directly or through delegation, all activities of the school system according to, and consistent with, the policies of the board;
  • Represents the board as a liaison between the school district and the community;
  • Establishes and maintains a program of public relations to keep the public well-informed of the activities and needs of the school district, effecting a wholesome and cooperative working relationship between the school district and the community;
  • Attends and participates in all meetings of the board, except when the superintendent has been excused, and makes recommendations affecting the school district;
  • Reports to the board on such matters as deemed material to the understanding and proper management of the school district or as the board may request;
  • Assumes responsibility for the overall financial planning of the school district and for the preparation of the annual budget, and submits it to the board for review and approval;
  • Establishes and maintains efficient procedures and effective controls for all expenditures of school district funds in accordance with the adopted budget, subject to the direction and approval of the board;
  • Files, or causes to be filed, all reports required by law;
  • Makes recommendations to the board for the selection of employees for the school district;
  • Makes and records assignments and transfers of all employees pursuant to their qualifications;
  • Employs such employees as may be necessary, within the limits of budgetary provisions and subject to the board's approval;
  • Recommends to the board, for final action, the promotion, salary change, demotion or dismissal of any employee;
  • Prescribes rules for the classification and advancement of students, and for the transfer of students from one building to another in accordance with board policies;
  • Summons employees of the school district to attend such regular and occasional meetings as are necessary to carry out the education program of the school district;Supervises methods of teaching, supervision, and administration in effect in the schools;
  • Attends such conventions and conferences as are necessary to keep informed of the latest educational trends;
  • Accepts responsibility for the general efficiency of the school system, for the development of the employees, and for the educational growth and welfare of the students;
  • Defines educational needs and formulates policies and plans for recommendation to the board;
  • Makes administrative decisions necessary for the proper functioning of the school district;
  • Responsible for scheduling the use of buildings and grounds by all groups and/or organizations;
  • Acts as the purchasing agent for the board, and establishes procedures for the purchase of books, materials, and supplies;
  • Approves vacation schedules for employees;
  • Conducts periodic school district administration meetings;
  • Performs other duties as may be assigned by the board.
  • Supervises the establishment or modification of the boundaries of school attendance and transportation areas subject to approval of the board.
  • Directs studies of buildings and sites, taking into consideration population trends and the educational and cultural needs of the school district in order to ensure timely decisions by the board and the electorate regarding construction and renovation projects.

This list of duties will not act to limit the board's authority and responsibility over the superintendent.  In executing these duties and others the board may delegate, the superintendent will consider the school district's financial condition as well as the needs of the students in the school district.

 

 

Approved:  11-08-21                         
Reviewed:                              
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:54

303.5 - Superintendent Evaluation

303.5 - Superintendent Evaluation

The board will conduct an ongoing evaluation of the superintendent on the superintendent's skills, abilities, and competence.  Annually, the board will formally evaluate the superintendent.  The goal of the superintendent's formal evaluation is to ensure the educational program for the students is carried out, promote growth in effective administrative leadership, clarify the superintendent's role, clarify the immediate priorities of the board, and develop a working relationship between the board and the superintendent.

The formal evaluation will be based upon the following principles:

*    The evaluation criteria shall be in writing, clearly stated and mutually agreed upon by the board and the superintendent.  The criteria will be related to the job description and the school district's goals;

*    The evaluation process will be conducted annually at a time previously agreed upon;

*    Each board member shall have an opportunity to individually evaluate the superintendent, and these individual evaluations will be compiled into an overall evaluation by the entire board;

*    The superintendent shall conduct a self-evaluation prior to discussing the board's evaluation, and the board as a whole shall discuss their evaluation with the superintendent;

*    The board may discuss their evaluation of the superintendent.  This discussion may take place in closed session upon a request from the superintendent;

*    The individual evaluation of each board member, if individual board members so desire, will not be reviewed by the superintendent.  Board members are encouraged to communicate their criticisms and concerns to the superintendent in the closed session.  The board president will develop a written summary of the individual evaluations, including both the strengths and the weaknesses of the superintendent, and place it in the superintendent's personnel file to be incorporated into the next cycle of evaluations; and,

*    The board, with the Superintendent, shall develop annual performance goals.

This policy supports and does not preclude the ongoing, informal evaluation of the superintendent's skills, abilities and competence.

 

                                                                                                           

Approved:                              
Reviewed:  12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-19-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:52

303.6 - Superintendent Professional Development

303.6 - Superintendent Professional Development

The board encourages the superintendent to continue professional growth by being involved in professional organizations, attending conferences, continuing education, and participating in other professional activities.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to arrange the superintendent's schedule in order to enable attendance at various conferences and professional activities.  If a conference or activity requires the superintendent to be absent from the office for more than three days, requires overnight travel or involves unusual expense, the superintendent shall bring it to the attention of the board president prior to attending the professional activity.

The superintendent shall report to the board relevant information after attending the conference or activity.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  7-13-15                           
Revised  3-8-99, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:52

303.7 - Superintendent Civic Activities

303.7 - Superintendent Civic Activities

The board encourages the superintendent to be involved in the school district community by belonging to school district community organizations and attending and participating in school district community activities.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to become involved in school district community activities and events.    The board may include a lump sum amount as part of the superintendent's compensation to be used specifically for paying the annual fees of the superintendent for school district community activities and events if, in the board's judgment, the superintendent's participation will further the public purpose of promoting and deriving support of the school district and public education in general. It shall be within the discretion of the board to pay annual fees for professional organizations and activities.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-12-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:50

303.8 - Superintendent Consulting / Outside Employment

303.8 - Superintendent Consulting / Outside Employment

The superintendent's position is considered full-time employment.  The board expects the superintendent to give the responsibilities of the position precedence over other employment.  The superintendent may accept consulting or outside employment for pay as long as, in the judgment of the board, the work is conducted on the superintendent's personal time and it does not interfere with the performance of the superintendent's duties contracted by the board.

The board reserves the right, however, to request that the superintendent cease the outside employment as a condition of continued employment.  The board shall give the superintendent thirty day’ notice to cease outside employment.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:49

304 - Administrative Employees

304 - Administrative Employees dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:41

304.1 - Administrator Positions

304.1 - Administrator Positions

The school district shall have, in addition to the superintendent, other administrative positions to include, but not be limited to; principals and curriculum coordinator. These administrators shall work closely with the superintendent in the day-to-day operations of the school district.

It shall be the responsibility of these administrators to uphold board policy, to instill a positive, cooperative environment with employees, and to share their expertise with each other and the board under the management team concept.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  1-14-02, 12-13-04, 11-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15
Revised:  3-8-99, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:48

304.2 - Administrator Qualifications, Recruitment, Appointment

304.2 - Administrator Qualifications, Recruitment, Appointment

The board will employ building principals and other administrators, in addition to the superintendent, to assist in the daily operations of the school district.

The board will consider applicants who meet or exceed the standards set by the Iowa Department of Education and the qualifications established in the job description for the position. In employing an administrator, the board will consider the qualifications, credentials, and records of the applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or disability. The board will consider the veteran status of the applicants.  The board will look closely at the training, experience, skill, and demonstrated competence of qualified applicants in making its final decision.

In choosing an administrator, the board will also consider the school district's educational philosophy, financial condition, organizational structure, education programs, and other factors deemed relevant by the board.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board for filling an administrative position, based on the requirements stated in this policy. The board will act only on the superintendent's recommendation.

The board may contract for assistance in the search for administrators.

 

 

Approved:  8-13-07               
Reviewed:  4-18-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15           
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:45

304.3 - Administrator Contract and Contract Non-Renewal

304.3 - Administrator Contract and Contract Non-Renewal

The length of the contract for employment between an administrator and the board shall be determined by the board and stated in the contract.  The contract shall state the terms of the employment.

The first three years of a contract issued to a newly employed administrator will be considered a probationary period.  The board may extend the probationary period for an additional year with the consent of the administrator.  In the event of termination of a probationary or non-probationary contract, the board shall afford the administrator appropriate due process, including notice by May 15.  The administrator and board may mutually agree to terminate the administrator's contract.

If an administrator’s contract is not being renewed by the board, the contract will be extended automatically for additional one-year periods beyond the end of its term until it is modified or terminated as mutually agreed to by the parties or until the administrator’s contract is terminated consistent with statutory termination procedures.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to create a contract for each administrative position. 

Administrators who wish to resign, to be released from a contract, or to retire, must comply with applicable law and board policies.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15
Revised:  9-20-17, 11-08-22                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:46

304.4 - Administrator Salary and Other Compensation

304.4 - Administrator Salary and Other Compensation

The board has complete discretion to set the salary of the administrators.  It shall be the responsibility of the board to set the salary and benefits of the administrators at a level that will include consideration of, but not be limited to, the economic condition of the school district and the training, experience, skill, and demonstrated competence of the administrators.  The salary shall be set at the beginning of each contract period and included in each contract.

In addition to the salary and benefits agreed upon, the administrator's actual and necessary expenses shall be paid by the school district when the administrator is performing work-related duties.  The board shall approve the payment of other benefits or compensation over and above the administrator’s contract.  Approval of other benefits or items of an administrator’s compensation shall be included in the records of the board in accordance with board policy.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-18-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15
Revised:  11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:44

304.5 - Administrator Duties

304.5 - Administrator Duties

Administrators will be hired by the board to assist the superintendent in the day-to-day operations of the school district.

Each attendance center will have a building principal responsible for the administration and operation of the attendance center. Each building principal, as chief administrator of the assigned attendance center, is responsible for the building and grounds, for the students and employees assigned to the attendance center, for school activities at the attendance center, for the education program offered in the attendance center, and the budget for the attendance center. The principal is considered the professional advisor to the superintendent in matters pertaining to the attendance center supervised by the principal. Although the principals serve under the direction of the superintendent, duties of the principal may include, but not be limited to the following:

  • Cooperate in the general organization and plan of procedure in the school under the principal's supervision;
  • Supervision of the teachers in the principal's attendance center;
  • Maintain the necessary records for carrying out delegated duties;
  • Work with the superintendent in rating, recommending, and selecting supervised employees whenever possible;
  • Work with the superintendent in determining the education program to be offered and in arranging the schedules. As much of the schedule as possible should be made before school closes for summer vacation. In the matter of courses offered, the final approval rests with the superintendent who is in turn responsible to the board;
  • Ensure that proper care is taken of all school books, supplies, materials, equipment, furniture, and facilities;
  • Instruct teachers to make a complete annual inventory of all school property contained in their individual rooms. This inventory will be reviewed and filed with the board secretary;
  • Investigate excessive cases of absence or tardiness of students and notify the parents or guardians of unexcused absence or tardiness. All such cases should be reported to the superintendent;
  • Make such reports from time to time as the superintendent may require;
  • Maintain the regular schedule of school hours established by the board and make no temporary changes in the schedule without the consent of the superintendent;
  • Promptly notify the superintendent whenever ventilation, sanitation or heating of the building is unsatisfactory;
  • Contribute to the formation and implementation of general policies and procedures of the school;
  • Perform such other duties as may be assigned by the superintendent.

This list of duties will not act to limit the board's authority and responsibility over the position of  administrator. In executing these duties and others the board may delegate, administrators will consider the school district's financial condition as well as the needs of the students in the school district.

 

 

Approved:  11-08-21                         
Reviewed:                              
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:43

304.6 - Administrator Evaluation

304.6 - Administrator Evaluation

The superintendent shall conduct an ongoing process of evaluating the administrators on their skills, abilities, and competence.  Annually, the superintendent will formally evaluate the administrators. The goal of the formal evaluation process is to ensure the educational program for the students is carried out, promote growth in effective administrative leadership for the school district, clarify the administrator's role as the board and the superintendent see it, ascertain areas in need of improvement, clarify the immediate priorities of the responsibilities listed in the job description, and develop a working relationship between the superintendent and the administrator.

The formal evaluation shall include written criteria related to the job description.     The superintendent, after receiving input from the administrators, shall present the formal evaluation instrument to the board for approval.

The formal evaluation shall also include an opportunity for the administrator and the superintendent to discuss the written criteria, the past year's performance and the future areas of growth.        The evaluation shall be completed by the superintendent, signed by the administrator and filed in the administrator's personnel file.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to conduct a formal evaluation of the probationary administrators and non-probationary administrators prior to March 31.

This policy supports and does not preclude the ongoing informal evaluation of the administrator's skills, abilities and competence.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-18-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised: 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:41

304.7 - Administrator Professional Development

304.7 - Administrator Professional Development

The board encourages the administrators to continue their professional growth by becoming involved in professional organizations, attending conferences, continuing their education, and participating in other professional activities.

It shall be the responsibility of the administrators to arrange their schedules in order to attend various conferences and events in which they are involved.  Prior to attendance at an event, the administrator must receive approval from the superintendent.  In the case where overnight travel or unusual expense is involved, the superintendent shall bring it to the attention of the board prior to the administrator attending the event.

The administrator shall report to the superintendent after a professional activity.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  01-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15
Revised:  3-8-99, 11-08-21

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:42

305 - Administrative Regulations

305 - Administrative Regulations dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:38

305.1 - Development and Enforcement of Administrative Regulations

305.1 - Development and Enforcement of Administrative Regulations

Administrative regulations may be necessary to implement board policy.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations.

In developing the administrative regulations, the superintendent may consult with the administrators or others likely to be affected by the regulations. Once the regulations are developed, employees, students and other members of the school district community shall be informed in a manner determined by the superintendent.

The board shall be kept informed of the administrative regulations utilized and their revisions. The board may review and recommend change of administrative regulations prior to their use in the school district if they are, in the board's judgment, contrary to the intent of board policy.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to enforce the administrative regulations in an appropriate manner for the situation.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised: 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:39

305.2 - Monitoring of Administrative Regulations

305.2 - Monitoring of Administrative Regulations

The administrative regulations shall be monitored and revised when necessary. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to monitor and revise the administrative regulations.

The superintendent, in addition to the superintendent's own knowledge, may rely on the board, the administrators, employees, students, and other members of the school district community to inform the superintendent about the effect of and possible changes in the administrative regulations.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:38

306 - Administrator Code of Ethics

306 - Administrator Code of Ethics

Administrators, as part of the educational leadership in the school district community, represent the views of the school district.  Their actions, verbal and nonverbal, reflect the attitude and the beliefs of the school district. Therefore, administrators shall conduct themselves professionally and in a manner fitting to their position.

Each administrator shall follow the code of ethics stated in this policy. Failure to act in accordance with this code of ethics or in a professional manner, in the judgment of the board, shall be grounds for discipline up to, and including, discharge.

The professional school administrator:

•     Upholds the honor and dignity of the profession in actions and relations with students, colleagues, board members and the public;      

▪     Obeys local, state and national laws; holds to high ethical and moral standards; and gives  loyalty to this country and to the cause of democracy and liberty;

•     Accepts the responsibility to master and to contribute to the growing body of specialized knowledge, concepts, and skills which characterize school administration as a profession;

•     Strives to provide the finest possible educational experiences and opportunities to the members of the school district community;

•     Seeks to preserve and enhance the prestige and status of the profession when applying for a position or entering into contractual agreements;

•     Carries out in good faith the policies duly adopted by the local board and the regulations of state authorities and renders professional service;

•     Disallows consideration of private gain or personal economic interest to affect the discharge of professional responsibilities;

•     Recognizes public schools are the public's business and seeks to keep the public informed about their schools; and,

•     Supports and practices the management team concept.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-6-96, 1-11-99, 1-12-02, 12-13-04, 4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15
Revised: 11-08-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:36

307 - Succession of Authority to the Superintendent

307 - Succession of Authority to the Superintendent

In the absence of the superintendent, it shall be the responsibility of the other administrators to assume the superintendent's duties.  The succession of authority to the superintendent shall be in this order:  the secondary principal and the elementary principal.

If the absence of the superintendent is temporary, the successor shall assume only those duties and responsibilities of the superintendent that require immediate action.  If the board determines the absence of the superintendent will be a lengthy one, the board shall appoint an acting superintendent to immediately assume the responsibilities of the superintendent.  The successor shall assume the duties when the successor learns of the superintendent's absence or when assigned by the superintendent or the board.

References to "superintendent" in this policy manual shall mean the "superintendent or the superintendent's designee" unless otherwise stated in the board policy.

 

 

Approved: 7-1-92                  
Reviewed:  1-10-94, 12-9-96, 1-11-99, 1-14-02, 12-13-04,  4-14-08, 3-14-11, 7-13-15, 11-08-21
Revised: 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Sat, 01/08/2022 - 15:35

400 - EMPLOYEES

400 - EMPLOYEES Jen@iowaschool… Tue, 11/23/2021 - 07:54

400 - Role and Guiding Principles for Employees

400 - Role and Guiding Principles for Employees

This series of the board policy manual is devoted to the board's goals and objectives for employees in the performance of their jobs.  Employees provide a variety of important services for the children of the school district community.  They may be teaching or assisting in the classroom, working in the office, maintaining the facilities, driving or repairing the school buses, or cooking lunches.  Each employee plays a vital role in providing an equal opportunity for a quality education for students commensurate with the students' individual needs.  While the teachers have the most direct impact on the formal instruction of students, all employees have an impact on the school environment by their dedication to their work and their actions.  As role models for the students, employees shall promote a cooperative, enthusiastic, and supportive learning environment for the students.

In striving to achieve a quality education program, the board's goal is to obtain and retain qualified and effective employees.  The board shall have complete discretion to determine the number, the qualifications, and the duties of the positions and the school district's standards of acceptable performance.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to make recommendations to the board in these areas prior to board action.  The board recognizes its duty to bargain collectively with duly certified collective bargaining units.  

Board policies in this series relating to general employees will apply to employees regardless of their position as a licensed employee, classified employee, substitute or administrator.  Board policies relating to licensed employees will apply to positions that require a teaching license or administrator's certificate or other professional license, certificate or endorsement, unless administrative positions are specifically excluded from the policy or a more specific policy is in the 300 series.  Classified employees' policies included in this series will apply to positions that do not fall within the definition of licensed employee.

 

 

Approved: 7-1-92                  
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised: 8-14-17, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:43

401 - Employees and Internal Relations

401 - Employees and Internal Relations dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:36

401.1 - Employee Orientation

401.1 - Employee Orientation

Employees must know their role and duties.  New employees may be required to participate in an orientation program or new employees. It shall be the responsibility of the immediate supervisor or designee to provide the new employee with a review of the employee's responsibilities, duties, and appropriate procedures. 

 

Approved:  07-1-92               
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 12-15-04, 10-10-05, 11-14-05, 01-17-12, 
05-15-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  07-01-92, 05-15-12, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:08

401.15 Employee Use of Social Media

401.15 Employee Use of Social Media awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 08/22/2024 - 07:29

401.16 - Employee Professional Development

401.16 - Employee Professional Development

REQUIRED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR EMPLOYEES

 

Appropriate training and professional development of all employees is crucial to the success of all students.  The district will provide professional development opportunities appropriate to the duties of school employees.  

For all professional development programs the district requires employees to take, the district will provide to the employee notice indicating the section of the law, or rules adopted by the state board of education or board of educational examiners that the district determines requires the employee to participate in the professional development program. 

Approved :  11-15-23 Reviewed:  Revised: 

awoods@gt.rati… Wed, 01/03/2024 - 08:03

401.17-Limitations to Employee References

401.17-Limitations to Employee References

LIMITATIONS TO EMPLOYEE REFERENCES

The district believes in taking appropriate measures to promote the health and welfare of all students.  Any school employee, volunteer, contractor, or agent shall not assist another school employee, contractor, or agent in obtaining a new job, apart from the routine transmission of administrative personnel files, if the individual or agency knows, or has probable cause to believe, that such school employee, contractor, or agent engaged in sexual misconduct regarding a minor or student in violation of the law.  Sexual misconduct means physical or sexual abuse of students, including but not limited to sexual or physical relationships, grooming behavior, and otherwise inappropriate relationships with students.

This limitation does not apply if the matter has been properly reported to law enforcement and any other regulatory authorities required by law, and either: 

  • the matter has been officially closed by the law enforcement agency; 
  • the individual is acquitted or otherwise exonerated of the alleged misconduct; or 
  • more than four years has passed since the case was opened, and no charges or indictment have been filed.

Approved :  8-21-24 Reviewed:  Revised:

 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 08/22/2024 - 15:08

401.2 - Equal Employment Opportunity

401.2 - Equal Employment Opportunity

The Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District will provide equal opportunity to employees and applicants for employment in accordance with applicable equal employment opportunity and affirmative action laws, directives and regulations of federal, state and local governing bodies.  Opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment includes hiring, placement, promotion, transfer or demotion, recruitment, advertising or solicitation for employment, treatment during employment, rates of pay or other forms of compensation, and layoff or termination. The school district will take affirmative action in major job categories where women, men, minorities and persons with disabilities are underrepresented.  Employees will support and comply with the school district's established equal employment opportunity and affirmative action policies.  Employees will be given notice of this policy annually.

The board will appoint an affirmative action coordinator.  The affirmative action coordinator will have the responsibility for drafting the affirmative action plan.  The affirmative action plan will be reviewed by the board at least every two years.

Individuals who file an application with the school district will be given consideration for employment if they meet or exceed the qualifications set by the board, administration, and Iowa Department of Education for the position for which they apply. In employing individuals, the board will consider the qualifications, credentials, and records of the applicants without regard to race, color, creed, gender, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.  The board will consider the veteran status of applicants.

Prior to a final offer of employment for any position, the school district will perform the background checks required by law. The school district may determine on a case-by-case basis that, based on the duties, other positions within the school district will also require background checks. Based upon the results of the background checks, the school district will determine whether an offer will be extended and may withdraw a previously extended offer.

Employees will support and comply with the school district’s established equal employment opportunity and affirmative action policies.  Employees will be given notice of this policy annually.  Additionally, all persons, agencies, vendors, contractors, and other persons and organizations doing business with or performing services for the school district are required to subscribe to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, executive orders, rules, and regulations pertaining to contract compliance and equal employment opportunity.

Advertisements and notices for vacancies within the school district will contain the following statement:  The Ruthven­ Ayrshire Community School District is an EEO/AA employer. The statement will also appear on application forms.

Inquiries by employees or applicants for employment regarding compliance with equal employment opportunity and affirmative action laws and policies, including but not limited to complaints of discrimination, will be directed to the Affirmative Action Coordinator by writing to the Affirmative Action Coordinator Ruthven­ Ayrshire Community School District, Ruthven, Iowa; or by telephoning 712-837-5211.

Inquiries by employees or applicants for employment regarding compliance with equal employment opportunity and affirmative action laws and policies, including but not limited to complaints of discrimination, may also be directed in writing to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, 400 East 14th Street, Des Moines, Iowa, 50319-1004, (515) 281-4121 or 800-457-4416 https:// https://www.state.ia.us/government/crc/index.html or to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Milwaukee Area Office, Reuss Federal Plaza, 310 West Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 800, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53203, (800) 669-4000, https://www.eeoc.gov/field/milwaukee/index.cfm.  An inquiry or complaint to the state or federal office may be done instead of, or in addition to, an inquiry or complaint at the local level.

Further information and copies of the procedures for filing a complaint are available in the school district's central administrative office and the administrative office in each attendance center.

 

 

Approved:  08-13-07             
Reviewed:  12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:07

401.3 - Employee Conflict of Interest

401.3 - Employee Conflict of Interest

Employees' use of their position with the school district for financial gain is considered a conflict of interest with their position as employees and may subject employees to disciplinary action.

Employees have access to information and a captive audience that could award the employee personal or financial gain.  No employee may solicit other employees or students for personal or financial gain to the employee without the approval of the superintendent.  If the approval of the superintendent is given, the employee must conduct the solicitations within the conditions set by the superintendent.  Further, the superintendent may, upon five days notice, require the employee to cease such solicitations as a condition of continued employment.

Employees will not act as an agent or dealer for the sale of textbooks or other school supplies.  Employees will not participate for personal financial remuneration in outside activities wherein their position on the staff is used to sell goods or services to students or to parents.  Employees will not engage in outside work or activities where the source of information concerning the customer, client or employer originates from information obtained because of the employee's position in the school district.

It will also be a conflict of interest for an employee to engage in any outside employment or activity which is in conflict with the employee's official duties and responsibilities.  In determining whether outside employment or activity of an employee creates a conflict of interest, situations in which an unacceptable conflict of interest is deemed to exist will include, but not be limited to, any of the following:

(1)     The outside employment or activity involves the use of the school district's time, facilities, equipment and supplies or the use of the school district's badge, uniform, business card or other evidences of office to give the employee or the employee's immediate family an advantage or pecuniary benefit that is not available to other similarly situated members or classes of members of the general public.  For purposes of this section, a person is not "similarly situated" merely by being related to an employee who is employed by the school district.

(2)     The outside employment or activity involves the receipt of, promise of, or acceptance of more or other consideration by the employee or a member of the employee's immediate family from anyone other than the school district for the performance of any act that the employee would be required or expected to perform as part of the employee's regular duties or during the hours during which the employee performs service or work for the school district.

(3)     The outside employment or activity is subject to the official control, inspection, review, audit or enforcement authority of the employee during the performance of the employee's duties.

If the outside employment or activity is employment or activity in (1) or (2) above, the employee must cease the employment of or activity.  If the activity or employment falls under (3), then the employee must:

  • Cease the outside employment or activity; or,
  • Publicly disclose the existence of the conflict and refrain from taking any official action or performing any official duty that would detrimentally affect or create a benefit for the outside employment or activity.  Official action or official duty includes, but is not limited to, participating in any vote, taking affirmative action to influence any vote, or providing any other official service or thing that is not available generally to members of the public in order to further the interests of the outside employment or activity.

It is the responsibility of each employee to be aware of and take the necessary action to eliminate a potential conflict of interest should it arise.

 

 

Approved:  ______       
Reviewed:  3/12/12, 12/14/16    
Revised :  10/12/09, 10/10/16,
2-16-22               

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:10

401.4 - Nepotism

401.4 - Nepotism

More than one family member may be an employee of the school district.  The decision to employ more than one individual in a family is on the basis of each individual’s qualifications, credentials, and records.

No school district employee will be involved in hiring a family member.  It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to allow one family member employed by the school district to serve in a supervisory capacity over one of their family members employed by the school district subject to prior approval of the board of directors.  No school district employee shall attempt to influence the evaluation or condition of employment of the employee’s family member with anyone who serves in a supervisory capacity over that family member.

Family members for purpose of this policy include spouses, mothers, fathers, mothers-in-law, fathers-in -law, sisters, brothers, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, daughters, sons, daughters-in-law, and sons-in -law.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 03-12-12, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:11

401.5 - Employee Complaints

401.5 - Employee Complaints

Complaints of employees against fellow employees should be discussed directly between employees.  If necessary, complaints will be brought directly to the immediate supervisor, principal or superintendent and will be made in a constructive and professional manner.  Complaints will never be made in the presence of other teachers, employees, students or outside persons.

A formal grievance procedure is contained in the master contract between the employee's licensed bargaining unit and the board and the staff handbook.  This policy will not apply to a complaint that has been or could be filed at the employee's discretion under those formal grievance procedures.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 11-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised: 8-14-17, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 10:44

401.6 - Employee Records

401.6 - Employee Records

The school district shall maintain personnel records on employees.  The records are important for the daily administration of the educational program, for implementing board policy, for budget and financial planning, and for meeting state and federal requirements.

The records shall include, but not be limited to, records necessary for the daily administration of the school district, person information regarding the employee, salary records, evaluations, application for employment, references, and other items needed to carry out board policy.  Employee personnel files are school district records and are considered confidential records and therefore are not generally open to public inspection or accessibility.  Only in certain limited instances, when the employee has given a signed consent, will employee personnel records be accessible to individuals other than the employee or authorized school officials.

Employees may have access to their personnel files, with the exception of letters of reference, and copy items from their personnel files at a time mutually agreed upon between the superintendent and the employee.  The school district may charge a reasonable fee for each copy made as allowed under law.          Board members will generally only have access to an employee's file when it is necessary because of an employee related matter before the board.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep employees' personnel files current. The board secretary shall be the custodian of employee records.

 

 

Approved:  11-18-93             
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:04

401.6R1 - Employee Records Regulation

401.6R1 - Employee Records Regulation

Employee personnel records may contain the following information:

•           Personal information, including, but not limited to: name, address, telephone number, emergency numbers, birthdate, and spouse

•           Individual employment contract

•           Evaluation documents

•           Application, resume, and references, expect those that shall be kept confidential according to state and federal law

•           Salary information

•           Copy of employee's license or certificate, if needed for the position

•           Educational transcripts

•           Job description and/or assignment

•           Records of disciplinary matters

•           Tax documents, including, but not limited to, IRS Form W-4.

•           Written attendance records.

•           Complaints.

•           Documents concerning any raise, promotion, pay decrease or demotion.

•           Receipts and/or acknowledgements of any employee related material, including policies and handbooks.

•           Letters of termination and/or resignation.

•           Documentation relating to an employee’s unemployment benefits.

•           Documentation regarding the employee’s separation from employment.

•           Employee health and medical records are kept in a file separate from the employee’s personnel records.  Health and medical records may contain, but not limited to:

•           Medical professional signed physical form

•           Sick or long-term disability leave days

•           Worker's Compensation claims

•           Reasonable accommodations made by the school district to accommodate the employee's disability

•           Employee's medical history, including, but not limited to, medical records and/or notes.

•           Employee emergency names and numbers

•           Family and medical leave request forms

•           Employee immigration forms, especially Form I-9, are kept separate from employee personnel records and may be kept in a file that houses all employees’ immigration forms for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.

•           Records on applicants for positions with the school district shall be maintained in the central administration office. The records may include, but not limited to:

•           Application for employment

•           Resume

•           References, except those that shall be kept confidential according to state and federal law

•           Evidence of appropriate license or certification, if necessary for the position for which the individual applied

•           Affirmative action form, if submitted

Records Access

Only authorized school officials shall have access to an employee's records without the written consent of the employee.  Authorized school officials may include, but not be limited to, the superintendent, building principal, or board secretary.  In the case of a medical emergency, the school nurse or other first aid or safety personnel may have access to the employee's health or medical information without the consent of the employee.  Board members will generally only have access to an employee's personnel file without the consent of the employee when necessary for the conducting of Board business.

The general public may have access to an employee’s personnel records and/or personnel information as permitted by law.  Specifically, the general public may have access to the following information:

•           An employee’s name and compensation, including any written agreement establishing compensation or any other terms of employment excluding any information otherwise protected under the law.

•           Compensation means payment of, or agreement to pay, any money, thing of value, or financial benefit conferred in return for labor or services rendered by an official, officer or employee plus the value of benefits conferred including but not limited to casualty, disability, life, or health insurance, other health or wellness benefits, vacation leave, holiday leave, sick leave, severance payments, retirement benefits, and deferred compensation.

•           The dates the employee was employed by the district.

•           The positions the employee holds or has held with the district.

•           The educational instructions attended by the employee, including any diplomas and degrees earned, and the names of the employee’s previous employers, positions previously held, and dates of previous employment.

•           The fact that the employee was discharged as the result of a final disciplinary action upon the exhaustion of all applicable contractual, legal, and statutory remedies.

Employee Records Retention

All employee records, except payroll and salary records, shall be maintained for a minimum of seven years after termination of employment with the school district.  Applicant records shall be maintained for a minimum of seven years after the position was filled.  Payroll and salary records shall be maintained for a minimum of three years after payment.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:05

401.7 - Employee Relations to the Administration and to the Board

401.7 - Employee Relations to the Administration and to the Board

Employees are encouraged to attend school board meetings.   Employees shall be available to provide information and assist in providing recommendations to the board upon request.  Employees shall keep the board informed through the administration about educational trends and issues that may assist the board. It shall be the responsibility of the employees to keep the administration informed about the day-to-day occurrences in their work areas.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop avenues for communication between the board and the employees.   These avenues of communication will not be construed as denying the right of any employee to appeal an action or decision of the superintendent to the board.

 

 

Reviewed:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised: 11-14-94, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:06

401.8 - Employee Involvement in Decision Making

401.8 - Employee Involvement in Decision Making

Input from employees regarding the students, the education program and other school district operations will be considered by the administration and the board. Employees may be requested to make a presentation to the board. The administration, in its discretion, may consult with employees about proposed changes in the education program and operations of the school district.

Employees having suggestions for changes or improvements in administrative procedure or policy should take such suggestions directly to the principal or the superintendent. The principal or superintendent will discuss the suggestion with the employee. After a final decision is made on any policy or procedure, employees will be expected to accept and support the decision in their subsequent actions, discussions and relations.

 

 

Approved: 7-1-92      
Reviewed:   11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 11-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  11-14-94, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:05

401.9 - Transporting Students by Employees

401.9 - Transporting Students by Employees

Generally, transportation of students shall be in a motor vehicle owned by the school district and driven by an employee.  In some cases, it may be more economical or efficient for the school district to allow another employee of the school district to transport the students in the employee's motor vehicle or in a school district motor vehicle, other than a school bus.

Employees who transport students for school district purposes other than on the regular bus route must have completed a transportation request and have received the permission of the superintendent and must provide to the superintendent, for copying, a current driver’s license and proof of insurance.  In cases of emergency, an employee will notify the superintendent of the employee’s transportation of a student as soon as possible.

This policy statement applies to transportation of students for school purposes in addition to the regular bus route transporting students to and from their designated attendance center.

Travel compensation for use of personal motor vehicles will be followed according to the rate specified in board policy.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-13-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:03

401.10 - Employee Travel Compensation

401.10 - Employee Travel Compensation

Employees traveling on behalf of the school district and performing approved school business will be reimbursed for their actual and necessary expenses. Actual and necessary travel expenses will include, but not be limited to, transportation and/or mileage costs, lodging expenses, meal expenses, and registration costs.  Mileage claims will be documented on forms provided for that purpose.  Authorization for travel must be approved by the principal, supervisor or superintendent.

Travel Outside the School District

Travel outside of the school district must be pre-approved.  Pre-approval will include an evaluation of the necessity of the travel, the reason for the travel and an estimate of the cost of the travel to qualify as approved school district business.  Travel outside the school district by employees, other than the superintendent, is approved by the superintendent.

Reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses will be allowed for travel outside the school district if the employee received pre-approval for the travel.  Prior to reimbursement of actual and necessary expenses, the employee must provide the school district with a detailed receipt, other than a credit card receipt, indicating the date, the amount, the items purchased, and the nature of the expense for each claim item.  In exceptional circumstances, the superintendent or board may allow a claim without proper receipt.  Written documentation explaining the exceptional circumstances is maintained as part of the school district's record of the claim.

Failure to have a detailed receipt will make the expense a personal expense.

Reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses for travel outside the school district will be limited to the pre-approved expenses.  Pre-approved expenses for registration are limited to the actual cost of the registration.  Alcoholic beverages are not allowable expenses for reimbursement.

Pre-approved expenses for transportation within three-hundred miles of the school district administrative office will be by school district vehicle.  If a school district vehicle is not available, the employee, upon submission of appropriate documentation, will be reimbursed at a rate set by the board.

Travel Within the School District

Employees required to travel in their personal vehicle between school district buildings to carry out the duties of their position may be reimbursed at a rate set by the board.  Mileage for travel within the school district shall be computed from the employee’s first duty station on any day to subsequent work stations.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to approve travel within the school district by employees.  It is the responsibility of the board to review the travel within the school district by the superintendent through the board's audit and approval process.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-01-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:02

401.11 - Recognition for Service of Employees

401.11 - Recognition for Service of Employees

The board recognizes and appreciates the service of its employees.  Employees who retire or resign may be honored by the administration and staff in a manner fitting to the retiring or resigning employee.

If the form of honor thought appropriate by the administration and employees involves unusual expense to the school district, the superintendent shall seek prior approval from the board.

 

 

Approved:  7- l - 92              
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 11:00

401.12 - Employee Political Activity

401.12 - Employee Political Activity

Employees shall not engage in political activity upon property under the jurisdiction of the board.  Activities including, but not limited to, posting of political circulars or petitions, the distribution of political circulars or petitions, the collection of or solicitation for campaign funds, solicitation for campaign workers, and the use of students for writing or addressing political materials, or the distribution of such materials to or by students, are specifically prohibited.

Violation of this policy may be grounds for disciplinary action up to and including termination.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97,10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05,12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 10:53

401.13 - Use of School District Credit Cards

401.13 - Use of School District Credit Cards

The school district may maintain a school district credit card for actual and necessary expenses incurred by employees and officers in the performance of their duties.  School district credit cards may be issued and/or made available to employees and officers only for the time period and purpose for which they are needed.  The school district’s administration, in consultation with the board, will determine which employees and officers will be issued and/or provided use of school district credit cards and the time period that they are needed.  Prior to issuing and/or providing use of a school district credit card to an employee or officer, the employee or officer will be instructed regarding the use of school district credit cards and they will provide a written acknowledgement that they understand their responsibilities in regard to the use of school district credit cards.  Employees and officers will turn school district issued and/or provided credit cards back to the school district at the end of the time period for which they have been issued and/or provided or upon separation of employment.  Use of school district issued credit cards is a privilege and the superintendent may withdraw the privilege of using school district issued credit cards at any time.

Employees and officers may use school district credit cards for the actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of work-related duties.  Actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of work-related duties include, but are not limited to, fuel for school district transportation vehicles for transporting students to and from school and for school-sponsored events, payment of claims related to professional development of the board and employees, and other expenses required by employees and the board in the performance of their duties.

Employees and officers using a school district credit card must submit a detailed receipt in addition to a credit card receipt indicating the date, the amount, the items purchased, and the nature of the expense for each claim item.  Failure to provide a proper receipt shall make the expense a personal expense.   In exceptional circumstances, the superintendent or board may allow a claim without proper receipt.  Written documentation explaining the exceptional circumstances shall be maintained as part of the school district's record of the claim.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to determine whether the school district credit card use is for appropriate school business.  It shall be the responsibility of the board to determine through the audit and approval process of the board whether the school district credit card use by the superintendent and the board is for appropriate school business.

Failure to adhere to the credit card policy and regulations may subject an employee to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 10:52

401.14 - Employee Use of Cell Phones

401.14 - Employee Use of Cell Phones

The school district may issue cell phones to employees when there is a valid school district related business purpose for the employee to have access to a cell phone.  Prior to issuing an employee a school district cell phone, the school district will evaluate the employee’s job assignment and responsibilities and determine whether the employee should be issued a school district cell phone.  If the school district determines an employee will be issued a school district cell phone, the school district will determine the appropriate cell phone and cell phone plan for the employee.

An employee’s use of a school district cell phone will be limited to school district business.  Personal use of school district cell phones will only be allowed on a limited and infrequent basis. 

Employees who are issued school district cell phones may not use them at any time while they are operating motor vehicles or equipment.  Employees who are involved in an accident and/or charged with violations of the law resulting from the use of a school district cell phone while operating motor vehicles or equipment will be solely responsible for all liability that results from such actions, including, but not limited to all damages, costs, fees, and fines.

Any school district cell phone issued to an employee is school district property and all communications over and activity conducted on any school district cell phone is subject to being monitored and reviewed by the school district.  An employee who has been issued a school district cell phone is expected to protect it from loss, damage or theft and will be responsible for any damages or charges that result from the employee’s failure to exercise due care.  If an employee is issued a school district cell phone and it is lost or stolen, the employee must notify the school district so that service can be discontinued.  An employee shall notify the school district if a school district cell phone the employee has been issued malfunctions. 

Upon separation from employment or at any time upon request, the employee may be asked to produce a school district cell phone issued to the employee for return or inspection. Employees unable to present a school district issued cell phone in good working condition within twenty-four (24) hours of being asked to produce it may be required to bear the cost of replacing the cell phone.

Employees shall restrict use of personal cell phones to break periods or lunch periods.  Personal cell phone use shall be restricted during the employee’s work hours and should not interfere with the employee’s ability to perform their duties and responsibilities.

An employee’s failure to comply with this policy may subject the employee to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 10:51

402 - Employees and Outside Relations

402 - Employees and Outside Relations dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:36

402.1 - Release of Credit Information

402.1 - Release of Credit Information

The following information will be released to an entity with whom an employee has applied for credit or has obtained credit: title of position, income and number of years employed.  This information will be released without prior written notice to the employee.   Confidential information about the employee will be released to an inquiring creditor with a written authorization from the employee.

It shall be the responsibility of the board secretary or superintendent to respond to inquiries from creditors.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 1-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 10:04

402.2 - Child Abuse Reporting

402.2 - Child Abuse Reporting

In compliance with state law and to provide protection to victims of child abuse, the board believes incidents of alleged child abuse should be reported to the proper authorities.  Employees are encouraged and mandatory reporters are required to report alleged incidents of child abuse they become aware within the scope of their professional duties. The definition of child abuse is in the accompanying regulation.

When a reporter suspects a student is the victim of child abuse, the mandatory reporter will orally or in writing notify the Iowa Department of Human Services.  If the mandatory reporter believes the child is in immediate danger, the local law enforcement agency will also be notified.  Within forty-eight hours of the oral report, the mandatory reporter will file a written report with the Iowa Department of Human Services.

Within six months of their initial employment, mandatory reporters shall complete training involving the identification and reporting of child abuse and/or submit evidence their training is up to date.  Training is required to be retaken as required by law.

 

 

Approved – 08-09-93            
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12
Revised:  7-10-17, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 10:00

402.2R1 - Child Abuse Reporting Regulations

402.2R1 - Child Abuse Reporting Regulations

Iowa law requires licensed employees to report to the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) instances of suspected child abuse which they become aware of within the scope of their professional practice.

The law further specifies that a licensed employee who knowingly or willfully fails to report a suspected case of child abuse is guilty of a simple misdemeanor and that the licensed employee may be subject to civil liability for damages caused by the failure to report.

Employees participating in good faith in the making of a report or in a judicial proceeding that may result from the report, are immune from liability.

Child Abuse Defined

"Child abuse" is defined as:

•           Any non-accidental physical injury, or injury which is at variance with the history given of it, suffered by a child as the result of the acts or omissions of a person responsible for the care of the child.

•           The commission of a sexual offense with or to a child . . . as a result of the acts or omissions of the person responsible for the child. . . . Sexual offense includes sexual abuse, incest, and sexual exploitation of a minor.

•           The failure on the part of a person responsible for the care of a child to provide for the adequate food, shelter, clothing or other care necessary for the child's welfare when financially able to do so or when offered financial or other reasonable means to do so. A parent or guardian legitimately practicing religious beliefs who does not provide specified medical treatment for a child for that reason alone shall not be considered abusing the child.

•           The acts or omissions of a person responsible for the care of a child which allow, permit or encourage the child to engage in prostitution.

•           The person responsible for the care of a child has, in the presence of the child, manufactured a dangerous substance, or in the presence of the child possesses a product containing ephedrine, its salts, optical isomers, salts of optical isomers, or pseudoephedrine, its salts, optical isomers, salts of optical isomers, with the intent to use the product as a precursor or an intermediary to a dangerous substance.

•           Any mental injury to a child’s intellectual or psychological capacities evidenced by an observable and substantial impairment in the child’s ability to function within the child’s normal range of performance and behavior as the result of the acts or omissions of a person responsible for the care of the child, if the impairment is diagnosed by a licensed physician or qualified mental health professional as defined by Iowa law.

•           An illegal drug is present in a child’s body as a direct and foreseeable consequence of the acts of omissions of the person responsible for the care of the child.

•           The commission of bestiality in the presence of a minor by a person who resides in a home with a child, as a result of the acts or omissions of a person responsible for the care of the child.

•           Knowingly allowing a person custody or control of, or unsupervised access to a child or minor, after knowing the person is required to register or is on the sex offender registry.

Teachers in public schools are not "persons responsible for the care of the child" under this definition.  However, a teacher who abuses a child is subject to civil, criminal, and professional sanctions.

Reporting Procedures

Mandatory reporters are required to report, either orally or in writing, within twenty-four hours to the Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) when the employee reasonably believes a child has suffered from abuse within the scope of employment. Within forty-eight hours of an oral report, a written report must be filed with the DHS.

Each report should contain as much of the following information as can be obtained within the time limit.  However, the law specifies a report will be considered valid even if it does not contain all of the information.

•           name, age, and home address of the child;

•           name and home address of parents, guardians or other persons believed to be responsible for care of the child;

•           the child's present whereabouts if not the same as the parent's or other person's home address;

•           description of injuries, including evidence of previous injuries;

•           name, age, and condition of other children in the same home;

•           any other information considered helpful; and,

•           name and address of the person making the report.

It is not the responsibility of employees to prove that a child has been abused or neglected.   Employees should not take it upon themselves to investigate the case or contact the family of the child.  The DHS is responsible to investigate the incident of alleged abuse.

 

 

Approved:  08-09-93             
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 10:02

402.3 - Abuse of Students by School District Employees

402.3 - Abuse of Students by School District Employees

Physical or sexual abuse of students, including but not limited to sexual or physical relationships, grooming behavior, and otherwise inappropriate relationships with students, by employees will not be tolerated. The definition of employees for the purpose of this policy includes not only those who work for pay but also those who are volunteers of the school district under the direction and control of the school district.  Employees found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination.

The school district will respond promptly to allegations of abuse of students by school district employees by investigating or arranging for the investigation of an allegation and timely reporting to all relevant agencies as required by law.  The processing of a complaint or allegation will be handled confidentially to the maximum extent possible.   Employees are required to assist in the investigation when requested to provide information and to maintain the confidentiality of the reporting and investigation process.

The school district has appointed a Level I investigator and alternate Level I investigator. The school district has also arranged for a trained, experienced professional to serve as the Level II investigator.  The Level I investigator and alternate will be provided training in the conducting of an investigation at the expense of the school district. The names of the investigators shall be listed in the student handbook, published annually in the local newspaper, and posted in all school facilities.

 

 

Approved:  08-09-93             
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22, 8-21-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:42

402.3E1 - Abuse of Students by School District Employees

402.3E1 - Abuse of Students by School District Employees

Complaint of Injury to or Abuse of a Student by a School District Employee.

Please complete the following as fully as possible.   If you need assistance, contact the Level I investigator in your school.

Student's name and address: ______________________________________________________           

_____________________________________________________________________________

Student's telephone no.:  _________________________________________________________           

Student's school: _______________________________________________________________

Name and place of employment of employee accused of abusing student: __________________

                                                                                                                                                           

Allegation is of ________________  Physical ________________            Sexual abuse                          

Please describe what happened. Include the date, time and where the incident took place, if known. If physical abuse is alleged, also state the nature of the student's injury: _______________________

                                                                                                                                                           

Were there any witnesses to the incident or are there students or persons who may have information about this incident?       _____             yes       _____ no

If yes, please list by name, if known, or classification (for example: "third grade class," "fourth period geometry class"):
                                                                                                                                   

                                                                                                                                                           

*Parents of children who are in pre-kindergarten through sixth grade and whose children are the alleged victims of or witnesses to sexual abuse have the right to see and hear any interviews of their children in this investigation. Please indicate "yes" if the parent/guardian wishes to exercise this right:

            _____Yes        _____ No   Telephone Number:  ______________________________

Has any professional person examined or treated the student as a result of the incident?                         _____  yes       _____  no              _____ unknown

If yes, please provide the name and address of the professional(s ) and the date(s) of examination or treatment, if known:  ______________________________________________________________

Has anyone contacted law enforcement about this incident?             _____  yes       _____ no

Please provide any additional information you have which would be helpful to the investigator. Attach additional pages if needed.  ___________________________________________________________

Your name, address and telephone number:  _____________________________________________

Relationship to student:  _____________________________________________________________           

__________________________                    ______________________________________
Complainant Signature                                             Witness Signature

                                                                                                                                               
Date                                                                            Witness Name (please print)

 

                                                                                                                                               
                                                                                    Witness Address

 

Be advised that you have the right to contact the police or sheriff's office, the county attorney, a private attorney, or the State Board of Educational Examiners (if the accused is a licensed employee) for investigation of this incident.  The filing of this report does not deny you that opportunity. You will receive a copy of this report (if you are the named student's parent or guardian)and a copy of the Investigator's Report within fifteen calendar days of filing this report unless the investigation is turned over to law enforcement.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:54

402.3E2 - Report of Level I Investigation Form

402.3E2 - Report of Level I Investigation Form

Student's name: ____________________________________________________________________

Student's age:  __________                Student's grade:__________ 

Student's address: __________________________________________________________________

Student's school:  ___________________________________________________________________

Name of accused school employee :  _________________________    Building:  ________________

Name and address of person filing report:  _______________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Name and address of student's parent or guardian, if different from person filing report:    _________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Date report of abuse was filed:  _________________           _______  physical   _______      sexual*

Describe the nature, extent and cause of the student's injury, if any and if known:  (Attach additional pages if needed).  _________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

Describe your investigation: Attach additional pages if needed.  (Please do not use student witnesses' full. names.):  _________________________________________________________________________________

*Were parent(s) or guardian(s)advised of their right to see and hear any interview of their pre-kindergarten through sixth grade children who are alleged victims of or a witness in a sexual abuse investigation? _____  Yes    _____   No       Was the right exercised?  _____  Yes          _____  No

Were audio tapes made of any interviews?    _____    yes    _____   no

Were video tapes made of any interviews?    _____    yes     _____  no

Was any action taken to protect the student during or as a result of the investigation?                                                   _____  yes      _____  no

If yes, describe:                                                                                                                                  

_____  student excused from school              _____school employee placed on administrative or other leave

 _____ student assigned to different class      _____  other (please specify)

 

Level I investigator's conclusions:

_____The complaint is being dismissed for lack of jurisdiction. Physical abuse was alleged, but no allegation of injury was made.

_____Physical abuse was alleged, but no evidence of physical injury exists and the nature of the alleged incident makes it unlikely an injury, as defined in the rules, occurred.

_____Sexual abuse was alleged, but the alleged actions of the school employee, even if true, would not meet the definition of sexual abuse in the rules.

_____Alleged victim was not a student at the time of the incident.

_____Alleged school employee is not currently employed by this school district.

_____Alleged incident did not occur on school grounds, on school time, at a school-sponsored activity, nor in a school-related context.

_____The complaint has been investigated and concluded at Level I as unfounded.

_____Complaint was withdrawn.

_____Insufficient evidence exists that an incident of abuse, as defined in the rules, took place

 _____The complaint has been investigated at Level I and is founded.

_____The investigation is founded at Level I and is being turned over to Level II for further investigation.

_____Investigation of the complaint was deferred at Level I and referred to law enforcement at this time.

_____The investigation is concluded at Level I because the accused school employee has admitted the violation, has resigned, or has agreed to relinquish any teaching license held.

 

Current status of investigation:

_____Closed. No further investigation is warranted.

_____Closed and referred to school officials for further investigation as a personnel matter.

_____Deferred to law enforcement officials.

 _____Turned over to Level II investigator.

 

Other comments:  __________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________           

I have given a copy of the report of abuse and of this investigative report to the employee named in the report, the employee's supervisor, and the student's parent or guardian and informed the person filing the report of the options of contacting- law enforcement, private counsel, or the State Board of Educational Examiners, if the accused school employee holds an Iowa teacher's certificate or license.

 

__________________________________                            _________________________________
Name of investigator (please print)                                             Investigator's place of employment

 

__________________________________                            _________________________________
Signature of investigator                                                                    Date

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:56

402.3R1 - Abuse of Students by School District Employees Regulation

402.3R1 - Abuse of Students by School District Employees Regulation

An individual who has knowledge an employee has physically or sexually abused a student may immediately report it to the school district's Level I investigator.  Employee means one who works for pay or as a volunteer under the direction and control of the school district.  The report shall be written, signed, and witnessed by a person of majority age. The witness may be the Level I investigator.  The reporter is the individual filing the report.  The report shall contain the following:

  • The full name, address, and telephone number of the person filing.
  • The full name, age, address, and telephone number, and attendance center of the student.
  • The name and place of employment of the employee who allegedly committed the abuse.
  • A concise statement of the facts surrounding the incident, including date, time, and place of occurrence, if known.
  • A list of possible witnesses by name, if known.
  • Names and locations of persons who examined, counseled or treated the student for the alleged abuse, including the dates on which those services were provided, if known.

Upon request, the Level I investigator may assist the reporter in completing the report.  An incomplete report shall not be rejected unless the missing information would render the investigation futile or impossible.   An employee receiving a report of alleged abuse of a student by an employee shall pass the report to the investigator and shall keep the report confidential to the maximum extent possible.  In performing the investigation, the investigator shall have access to the educational records of the alleged student victim as well as access to the student for interviewing purposes.

In order for the school district to have jurisdiction over the acts and to constitute a violation of the law, acts of the employee must be alleged to have occurred on school grounds, on school time, at a school-sponsored activity, or in a school-related context.  However, the student need not be a student in the school district.   The student can be from another school district.  To be investigable, the written report must include basic information showing that the victim or the alleged abuse is or was a student at the time of the incident, that the alleged act of the employee resulted in injury or otherwise meets the definition of abuse in these rules, and that the person responsible for the act is currently an employee.        If the report is not investigable due to lack of jurisdiction, the investigator shall dismiss the complaint and inform the reporter of other options available.  Other options available to the reporter include contacting law enforcement authorities, private counsel, or the Board of Educational Examiners in the case of a licensed employee.

If the Level I investigator believes the student is in imminent danger if continued contact is permitted between the employee and the student, the Level I investigator may:

  • temporarily remove the student from contact with the employee;
  • temporarily remove the employee from service; or,
  • take other appropriate action to ensure the student's safety.

The Level I investigator shall have access to the educational records of the student and access to the student for purposes of interviewing the student about the report.

Physical Abuse Allegations

When physical abuse is reported, the Level I investigator shall make copies of the report and give a copy to the person filing the report, the students' parents, and the immediate supervisor of the employee named in the report.    The employee named in the report shall not receive a copy of the report until the employee is initially interviewed.

The Level I investigator shall use discretion in handling the information received regarding an investigation of abuse by an employee, and those persons involved in the investigation shall not discuss information regarding the complaint outside the investigation.  The entire investigative procedure will be thoroughly explained, including the confidential nature of the proceedings, to the student and other persons involved in the investigation.

Within five days of receipt of an investigable report, the Level I investigator shall complete an informal investigation.  The informal investigation shall consist of interviews with the student, the employee and others who may have knowledge of the alleged incident. If the Level I investigator determines that the allegations in the report are founded and that immediate and professional investigation is necessary, the Level I investigator may defer further investigation and contact appropriate law enforcement officials, the student's parents, and the person filing the report.  Within fifteen days of receipt of the report, the Level I investigator shall complete a written investigative report, unless the investigation was temporarily deferred.

The written investigative report shall include:

  1. The name, age, address, and attendance center of the student named in the report. 
  2. The name and address of the student's parent or guardian and the name and address of the person filing the report, if different from the student's parent or guardian.                        
  3. The name and work address of the employee named in the report as allegedly responsible for the abuse of the student.
  4. An identification of the nature, extent, and cause, if known, of any injuries or abuse to the student named in the report.   
  5. A general review of the investigation
  6. Any actions taken for the protection and safety of the student.                                                          
  7. A statement that, in the investigator's opinion, the allegations in the report are either:
    • Unfounded.   (It is not likely that an incident, as defined in these rules, took place),
      or
    • Founded.  (It is likely that an incident took place.)
  8. The disposition or current status of the investigation.
  9. A listing of the options available to the parents or guardian of the student to pursue the allegations. These options include, but are not limited to:
    • Contacting law enforcement officials.
    • Contacting private counsel for the purpose of filing a civil suit or complaint.
    • Filing a complaint with the board of educational examiners if the employee is a licensed employee.

The investigator shall retain the original and provide a copy of the written investigative report to the school employee named in the report, the employee's supervisor and the student's parent or guardian.  The person filing the report, if not the student's parent or guardian, shall be notified only that the Level I investigation has been concluded and of the disposition or anticipated disposition of the case.

It is the responsibility of the Level I investigator to determine whether it is more likely than not that an incident of abuse as defined in the rules took place between the student and employee.  The Level I investigator does not make the determination of whether the use of physical contact was appropriate or whether any of the exceptions apply. That is the responsibility of the Level II investigator.  Upon completion of the report, if the Level I investigator determines the allegations of physical abuse are founded and serious, the Level I investigator shall notify law enforcement authorities.  If the allegations are founded but the physical abuse is not of a serious nature, the Level I investigator shall refer the case on to the Level II investigator.

The Level II investigator shall review the Level I investigator's final investigative report and conduct further investigation. The Level II investigative report shall state the conclusion as to the occurrence of the alleged incident, the applicability of exceptions, the reason for the contact or force used, and recommendations regarding the need for further investigation.   In determining the applicability of the exceptions or the reasonableness of the contact or force used, the Level II investigator will use the following definitions:

Physical abuse is non-accidental physical injury to the student as a result of the action of an employee.  Injury occurs when evidence of it is still apparent at least twenty-four hours after its occurrence. The following do not constitute physical abuse, and no employee is prohibited from: 

a.         Using reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain:                      

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

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

(3)       For the purposes of self-defense of defense of others as provided for in Iowa Code §704.3.

(4)       For the protection of property as provided for in Iowa Code §§704.4, .5.

(5)       To remove a disruptive pupil from class, or any area of school district premises or from school-sponsored activities off school district premises.

(6)       To prevent a student from the self-infliction of harm.

(7)       To protect the safety of others.

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

In determining the reasonableness of the contact or force used, the following factors shall be considered:

(1)       The nature of the misconduct of the student, if any, precipitating the physical contact by the school employee.

(2)       The size and physical condition of the student.

(3)       The instrumentality used in making the physical contact.

(4)       The motivation of the school employee in initiating the physical contact.

(5)       The extent of injury to the student resulting from the physical contact.

Reasonable force is that force and no more which a reasonable person, in like circumstances, would judge to be necessary to prevent an injury or loss and can include deadly force if it is reasonable to believe that such force is necessary to avoid injury or risk to one's life or safety or the life or safety of another, or it is reasonable to believe that such force is necessary to resist a like force or threat.

Upon completion of the Level II investigation, the Level I investigator shall forward copies of the Level II investigative report to the employee, the employee's immediate supervisor, and the student's parent.  The Level I investigator shall notify the person filing the report of the current status of the case.

If the Level II investigator's report or law enforcement officials conclude abuse occurred, or the employee admits the violation, or the employee has surrendered the employee's certificate or license, the Level I investigator shall file a complaint with the Board of Educational Examiners.

The Level I investigator shall also arrange for counseling services for the student if the student or student's parents request counseling services.

Sexual Abuse

Sexual abuse is defined as including sexual acts involving a student, acts that encourage the student to engage in prostitution, as well as inappropriate, intentional sexual behavior or sexual harassment by the employee toward a student.    Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

1.         Submission to the conduct is made either implicitly or explicitly a term or condition of the   student's education or benefits;

2.         Submission to or rejection of the conduct is used as the basis for academic decisions affecting that student; or

3.         The conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with a student's academic performance by creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive education environment.

When sexual abuse is reported, the Level I investigator shall make copies of the report and give a copy to the person filing the report, the students' parents, and the immediate supervisor of the employee named in the report.  The employee named in the report shall not receive a copy of the report until the employee is initially interviewed.  The designated investigator shall not interview the school employee named in a report of sexual abuse until after a determination is made that jurisdiction exists, the alleged victim has been interviewed, and a determination made that the investigation will not be deferred.

The investigator shall notify the parent, guardian or legal custodian of a student in prekindergarten through grade six, of the date and time of the interview and of the right to be present or to see and hear the interview or send a representative in the parent's place.  The Level I investigator shall interview the student as soon as possible, but in no case later than five days from the receipt of a report or notice of the allegation of sexual abuse.  The Level I investigator may record the interview electronically.

The Level I investigator shall exercise discretion in the investigative process to preserve the privacy interests of the individuals involved.  To the maximum extent possible, the investigator shall maintain the confidentiality of the report.

It is the responsibility of the Level I investigator to determine whether it is more likely than not that an incident took place between the employee and the student.  If the Level I investigator believes the employee committed a sex act with a student or sexually exploited a student, the Level I investigator shall defer the Level I investigation and immediately notify law enforcement officials, the student's parents, and the person filing the report.

If the Level I investigator determines an incident occurred, while not an illegal sex act with a student or sexual exploitation of a student, but where the employee engaged in inappropriate, intentional sexual behavior, further investigation is warranted. If further investigation is warrat1ted, the Level I investigator may proceed to interview the employee and other individuals who may have knowledge of the circumstances contained in the report.  Prior to interviewing other individuals who may have knowledge of the circumstance contained in the report, the Level I investigator shall provide notice of the impending interview of student witnesses or the student who is in prekindergarten through grade six, to their parent, guardian, or legal custodian, and may provide notice to the parent or guardian of older students, prior to interviewing those students. The Level I investigator shall, if founded, arrange for the Level II investigator to further investigate the allegations.

Within fifteen days of receipt of the report, the Level I investigator shall complete a written investigative report unless the investigation was temporarily deferred.       The written investigative report shall include:

1.         The name, age, address, and attendance center of the student named in the report.

2.         The name and address of the student's parent or guardian and the name and address of the person filing the report, if different from the student's parent or guardian.

3.         The name and work address of the school employee named in the report as allegedly responsible for the abuse of the student.

4.         An identification of the nature, extent, and cause, if known, of any injuries or abuse to the student named in the report.

5.         A general review of the investigation.

6.         Any actions taken for the protection and safety of the student.

7.         A statement that, in the investigator's opinion, the allegations in the report are either:

  • Unfounded.     (It is not likely that an incident, as defined in these rules, took place), or 
  • Founded. (It is likely that an incident took place.)

8.         The disposition or current status of the investigation.

9.         A listing of the options available to the parents or guardian of the student to pursue the allegations.  These options include, but are not limited to:
•         Contacting law enforcement officials                                                                                      
•         Contacting private counsel for the purpose of filing a civil suit or complaint.                         
•         Filing a complaint with the board of educational examiners if the school employee is certificated.

The investigator shall retain the original and provide a copy of the investigative report to the school employee named in the report, the school employee's supervisor, and the named student's parent or guardian. The person filing the report, if not the student's parent or guardian, shall be notified only that the Level I investigation has been concluded and of the disposition or anticipated disposition of the case.

If the allegations are founded, the Level I investigation shall refer the case to the Level II investigator.  The Level II investigator shall review the Level I investigator's final investigative report and conduct further investigation if necessary.  The Level II investigative report shall state conclusively as to 'the occurrence of the alleged incident, conclusively as to the nature of the sexual abuse, and recommendations regarding the need for further investigation.  Upon completion of the Level II investigation, the Level I investigator shall forward copies of the Level II investigative report to the employee, the employee's immediate supervisor, and the student's parent. The Level I investigator shall notify the person filing the report of the current status of the case.

If the Level II investigator's report or law enforcement officials conclude sexual abuse occurred, or the employee admits the violation, or the employee has surrendered the employee's certificate or license, the Level I investigator shall file a complaint on behalf of the school district after obtaining the superintendent's signature with the Board of Educational Examiners.  The Level I investigator shall also arrange for counseling services for the student if the student or student's parents request counseling services.

In cases involving founded physical or sexual abuse by a licensed employee, the board shall notify the Board of Educational Examiners.  Information of unfounded abuse at Level I or Level II shall not be kept in the employee's personnel file.  If the Level I investigative report is founded but Level II is unfounded, then the Level I report shall be removed from the employee's permanent file.

It shall be the responsibility of the board to annually identify a Level I and Level II investigator.  The board shall also designate annually an alternate Level I investigator, preferably of the opposite sex of the designated Level I investigator, to whom reports may also be made.  The names and telephone numbers of   the Level I investigator and the alternate Level I investigator shall be included in employee handbooks, student handbooks, annually published in the local newspaper, and prominently displayed in all school buildings.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:43

402.4 - Gifts To Employees

402.4 - Gifts To Employees

Employees may receive a gift on behalf of the school district.  Employees shall not, either directly or indirectly, solicit, accept or receive any gift, series of gifts or an honorarium unless the donor does not meet the definition of restricted donor stated below or the gift or honorarium does not meet the definition of gift or honorarium stated below.  However, employees may receive non-monetary gifts of a value of less than three dollars if the donor does not intend to influence the employee’s professional judgement.

A restricted donor is defined as a person or other entity which:

• Is seeking to be, or is a party to, any one or any combination of sales, purchases, leases or contracts to, from or with the school district;

• Is engaged in activities which are regulated or controlled by the school district;

• Will be directly and substantially affected financially by the performance or nonperformance of the employee's official duty in a way that is greater than the effect on the public generally or on a substantial class of persons to which the person belongs as a member of a profession, occupation, industry or region; or

• Is a lobbyist or a client of a lobbyist with respect to matters within the school district's jurisdiction.

A gift is the giving of anything of value in return for which something of equal or greater value is not given or received.  However, gift does not include any of the following:

• Contributions to a candidate or a candidate's committee;

• Information material relevant to an employee's official function, such as books, pamphlets, reports, documents, periodicals or other information that is recorded in a written, audio or visual format;

• Anything received from a person related within the fourth degree by kinship or marriage, unless the donor is acting as an agent or intermediary for another person not so related;

• An inheritance;

• Anything available or distributed to the general public free of charge without regard to the official status of the employee;

• Items received from a charitable, professional, educational or business organization to which the employee belongs as a dues paying member if the items are given to all members of the organization without regard to an individual member's status or positions held outside of the organization and if the dues paid are not inconsequential when compared to the items received;

• Actual expenses of an employee for food, beverages, travel, and lodging for a meeting, which is given in return for participation in a panel or speaking engagement at the meeting when the expenses relate directly to the day or days on which the employee has participation or presentation responsibilities;

• Plaques or items of negligible resale value given as recognition for public service of an employee;

• Food and beverages provided at a meal that is part of a bona fide event or program at which the recipient is being honored for public service;

• Nonmonetary items with a value of less than three dollars that are received from any one donor during one calendar day;

• Items or services solicited or given to a state, national or regional organization in which the state of Iowa or a political subdivision of the state is a member for purposes of a business or educational conference, seminar or other meeting or solicited by or given to state, national or regional government organizations whose memberships and officers are primarily composed of state or local government officials or employees for purposes of a business or educational conference, seminar or other meeting;

• Items or services received by members or representatives of members as part of a regularly scheduled event that is part of a business or educational conference, seminar or other meeting that is sponsored and directed by any state, national or regional government organization in which the state of Iowa or a political subdivision of the state of Iowa is a member or received at such an event by members or representatives of members of state, national or regional government organizations whose memberships and officers are primarily composed of state or local government officials or employees;

• Funeral flowers or memorials to a church or nonprofit organization;

• Gifts which are given to an employee for the employee's wedding or twenty-fifth or fiftieth wedding anniversary;

• Payment of salary or expenses by the school district for the cost of attending a meeting of a subunit of an agency when the employee whose expenses are being paid serves on a board, commission, committee, council or other subunit of the agency and the employee is not entitled to receive compensation or reimbursement of expenses from the state or political subdivision of the state for attending the meeting;

• Gifts of food, beverages, travel, or lodging received by a public official or public employee if all of the following apply: (1)  the public official or public employee is officially representing an agency in a delegation whose sole purpose is to attract a specific new business to locate in the state, encourage expansion or retention of an existing business already established in the state, or to develop markets for Iowa businesses or products; (2)  the donor of the gift is not the business or businesses being contacted; and (3)  the public official or public employee plays a significant role in the presentation to the business or businesses on behalf of the public official’s or public employee’s agency.

• Gifts other than food, beverages, travel, and lodging received by an employee which are received from a person who is a citizen of a country other than the United States and is given during a ceremonial presentation or as a result of a custom of the other country and is of personal value only to the employee.

• Actual registration costs for informational meetings or sessions which assist a public official or public employee in the performance of the person's official functions.    The costs of food, drink, lodging, and travel are not registration costs under this paragraph.  Meetings or sessions which a public official or public employee attends for personal or professional licensing purposes are not informational meetings or sessions which assist a public official or public employee in the performance of the person's official functions under this paragraph.

An honorarium is anything of value that is accepted by, or on behalf of, an employee as consideration for an appearance, speech or article.            An honorarium does not include any of the following:

• Actual expenses of an employee for registration, food, beverages, travel or lodging for a meeting, which is given in return for participation in a panel or speaking engagement at a meeting when the expenses relate directly to the day or days on which the employee has participation or presentation responsibilities;

• A nonmonetary gift or series of nonmonetary gifts donated within thirty days to a public body, an educational or charitable organization or the Iowa department of general services; or

• A payment made to an employee for services rendered as part of a private business, trade or profession in which the employee is engaged if the payment is commensurate with the actual services rendered and is not being made because of the person's status as an employee of the district, but, rather, because of some special expertise or other qualification.

It shall be the responsibility of each employee to know when it is appropriate to accept or reject gifts or an honorarium.  Any employee who violates this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  11-11-97. 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  09-20-94, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:53

402.5 - Public Complaints About Employees

402.5 - Public Complaints About Employees

The board recognizes situations may arise in the operation of the school district which are of concern to the parents and other members of the school district community.       While constructive criticism is welcomed, the board desires to support its employees and their actions to free them from unnecessary, spiteful, or negative criticism and complaints that do not offer advice for improvement or change.

The board firmly believes concerns should be resolved at the lowest organizational level by those individuals closest to the concern.  Whenever a complaint or concern is brought to the attention of the board it will be referred to the administration to be resolved consistent with the following:

(a) Matters concerning an individual employee should first be addressed to the employee.

(b) Unsettled matters from (a)above or problems and questions about individual attendance centers should be addressed to the employee's building principal or immediate supervisor.

(c) Unsettled matters from (b) above or problems and questions concerning the school district should be directed to the superintendent.

(d) If a matter cannot be settled satisfactorily by the superintendent, it may then be brought to the board.      To ask that a concern regarding an employee be addressed by the board, the individual must notify the board president in writing, who may bring it to the attention of the entire board or the item may be placed on the board agenda of a regularly scheduled board meeting in accordance with board policy.

It is within the discretion of the board to address complaints from the members of the school district community and the board will only do so if they are in writing, signed, and the complainant has complied with this policy.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  07-01-92, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:40

402.6 - Employee Relations to the Public

402.6 - Employee Relations to the Public

Members of the school district community shall be treated with respect by employees.  The board encourages active participation by employees in community activities and events.

It shall be the responsibility of employees as they participate in various community groups and events, to make a conscientious effort to make the school district and its events a real part of the community.  Employees shall take advantage of their participation in the community to look for opportunities in which the community and school district can join forces for the betterment of the school district and the community.

 

 

Approved:  7- l - 92              
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:39

402.7 - Employee Outside Employment

402.7 - Employee Outside Employment

The board believes the primary responsibility of employees is to the duties of their position with the school district as outlined in their job description. The board considers an employee's duties as part of a regular, full-time position, as full-time employment.  The board expects such employees to give the responsibilities of their positions in the school district precedence over any other employment.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to counsel employees, whether full-time or part-time, if in the judgment of the superintendent and the employee's immediate supervisor, the employee's outside employment interferes with the performance of the employee's duties required in the employee's position within the school district.

The board may request the employee to cease the outside employment as a condition of continued employment with the school district.

 

 

Approved :  07-01-92            
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:37

403 - Employee Health and Well Being

403 - Employee Health and Well Being dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:37

403.1 - Employee Physical Examinations

403.1 - Employee Physical Examinations

Employees will be required to submit to a pre-employment physical examination after an offer of employment has been made and before the beginning of service.  The school district will provide the standard examination form to be completed by an appropriately licensed health care provider who performs the physical examination.  A written report of the physical examination shall be submitted to the school district.  The date by which any such physical examination report shall be submitted to the school district shall be determined by the superintendent, but in no case shall be any less than five (5) business days prior to the first working day.

Bus drivers will be examined using all applicable state and federal criteria at the beginning of employment and every two years thereafter.

The cost of the initial examination will be paid by the employee. 

Fitness-for-duty examinations may be required following an absence from work due to illness, if there is a reasonable belief that the employee is unable to perform the essential functions of the job or if there is a reasonable belief that the employee poses a direct threat to the employee or others because of a health condition.  A direct threat occurs when an individual poses a significant risk of substantial harm to himself/herself or others and the risk cannot be reduced below the direct threat level through reasonable accommodations.

All information regarding the medical condition or history of an employee must be kept in files separate from the employee’s personnel records and treated as a confidential medical record subject to state and federal confidentiality laws.

The school district will provide an examination form to be completed by the personal physician of the employee.  The school district also reserves the right to request additional physical or mental evaluation as deemed by a licensed physician for job performance.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  12-09-12, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  04-10-04, 01-17-12, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:36

403.2 - Employee Injury on the Job

403.2 - Employee Injury on the Job

When an employee becomes injured on the job, the building principal or designee shall notify a member of the family, or an individual of close relationship, as soon as the building principal and medical personnel become aware of the injury.

The school district is not responsible for medical treatment of an injured employee.  If possible, an employee may administer emergency or minor first aid. An injured employee shall be turned over to the care of the employee's family or qualified medical employees as quickly as possible.

It shall be the responsibility of the employee injured on the job to inform the superintendent or human resources within twenty­ four hours of the occurrence. It shall be the responsibility of the employee or the employee's supervisor to file an accident report within twenty-four hours after the employee reported the injury.

It shall be the responsibility of the employee to file claims, such as worker's compensation, through the board secretary.

 

 

Approved:  07-1-92               
Reviewed:  11-14-94 11-11-97, 12-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 01-17-12, 05-15-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:38

403.3 - Communicable Diseases - Employees

403.3 - Communicable Diseases - Employees

Some employees with a communicable disease, as defined by law, will be allowed to attend to  their customary employment duties without creating a risk of transmission of the illness to students or other employees.  The school district also recognizes that there may be a greater risk of transmission of some communicable diseases for some employees with certain conditions than for other employees infected with the same disease.

Employees with a communicable disease will be allowed to perform their customary employment duties provided they are able to perform the essential functions of their position and their presence does not create a substantial risk of illness or transmission to students or other employees. The term communicable disease shall mean an infection or contagious disease spread from person to person or animal to person or as defined by law.  A direct threat occurs when an individual poses a significant risk of substantial harm to himself/herself or others and the risk cannot be reduced below the direct threat level through reasonable accommodations.

An employee who is at work and who has a communicable disease that poses a direct threat, as defined above, shall report the condition to the superintendent any time the employee is aware that the employee’s condition poses a direct threat.  Any individual who has information that a school district employee may have a communicable disease is encouraged to report the information to the superintendent.

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 superintendent shall determine on a case-by-case basis whether the presence of an employee with a communicable disease in the school district environment constitutes a direct threat.  In making this determination, the superintendent shall consider credible, objective evidence.  If the superintendent, after reviewing the credible, objective evidence, determines the employee’s presence may constitute a direct threat, the superintendent may request additional medical information from the employee’s physician with the employee’s consent, a physician chosen by the school district or public health officials, to confirm the superintendent’s determination.

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

 

 

Approved:  11-14-94             
Reviewed:  7-11-95, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  11-11-97, 2-16-22                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:33

403.3R1 - Universal Precautions Regulation

403.3R1 - Universal Precautions Regulation

Universal precautions (UP) are intended to prevent transmission of infection, as well as decrease the risk of exposure for employees and students.          It is not currently possible to identify all infected individuals, thus precautions must be used with every individual.  UP pertain to blood and other, potentially infectious materials (OPIM) containing blood.  These precautions do not apply to other body fluids and wastes (OBFW such as saliva, sputum, feces, tears, nasal secretions, vomitus and urine unless blood is visible in the material.  However, these OBFW can be sources of other infections and should be handled as if they are infectious.  The single most important step in preventing exposure to and transmission of any infection is anticipating potential contact with infectious materials in routine as well as emergency situations. Based on the type of possible contact, employees and students should be prepared to use the appropriate precautions prior to the contact.  Diligent and proper hand washing, the use of barriers, appropriate disposal of waste products and needles, and proper decontamination of spills are essential techniques of infection control.  All individuals should respond to situations practicing UP followed by the activation of the school response team plan. Using common sense in the application of these measures will enhance protection of employees and students.

Hand Washing

Proper hand washing is crucial to preventing the spread of infection. Textured jewelry on the hands or wrists should be removed prior to washing and kept off until completion of the procedure and the hands are rewashed.  Use of running water, lathering with soap and using friction to clean all hand surfaces is key.  Rinse well with running water and dry hands with paper towels.

  • Hands should be washed before physical contact with individuals and after contact is completed.
  • Hands should be washed after contact with any used equipment.
  • If hands (or other skin) come into contact with blood or body fluids, hands should be washed immediately before touching anything else.
  • Hands should be washed whether gloves are worn or not and, if gloves are worn, after the gloves are removed.

Barriers

Barriers anticipated to be used at school include disposable gloves, absorbent materials, and resuscitation devices.  Their use is intended to reduce the risk of contact with blood and body fluids as well as to control the spread of infectious agents from individual to individual.  Gloves should be worn when in contact with blood, OPIM or OBFW.  Gloves should be removed without touching the outside and disposed of after each use.

Disposal of Waste

Blood, OPIM, OBFW, used gloves, barriers, and absorbent materials should be placed in a plastic bag and disposed of in the usual procedure.  When the blood or OPIM is liquid, semi-liquid or caked with dried blood, it is not absorbed in materials, and is capable of releasing the substance if compressed, special disposal as regulated waste is required.  A band-aid, towel, sanitary napkin or other absorbed waste that does not have the potential of releasing the waste if compressed would not be considered regulated waste.  It is anticipated schools would only have regulated waste in the case of a severe incident.  Needles, syringes, and other sharp disposable objects should be placed in special puncture-proof containers and disposed of as regulated waste.  Bodily wastes such as urine, vomitus or feces should be disposed of in the sanitary sewer system.

Clean up

Spills of blood and OPIM should be cleaned up immediately.  The employee should:

  • Wear gloves.
  • Clean up the spill with paper towels or other absorbent material.
  • Use a solution of one part household bleach to one hundred parts of water (1:100) or other EPA-approved disinfectant and use it to wash the area well.
  • Dispose of gloves, soiled towels, and other waste in a plastic bag.
  • Clean and disinfect reusable supplies and equipment.

Laundry

Laundry with blood or OPIM should be handled as little as possible with a minimum of agitation.  It should be bagged at the location.  If it has the potential of releasing the substance when compacted, regulated waste guidelines should be followed.  Employees who have contact with this laundry should wear protective barriers.

Exposure

An exposure to blood or OPIM through contact with broken skin, mucous membrane or by needle or sharp stick requires immediate washing, reporting, and follow-up.

•           Always wash the exposed area immediately with soap and water.

•           If a mucous membrane splash (eye or mouth) or exposure of broken skin occurs, irrigate or wash the area thoroughly.

•           If a cut or needle stick injury occurs, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water.

The exposure should be reported immediately, the parent or guardian is notified, and the person exposed contacts a physician for further health care.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:34

403.4 - Hazardous Chemical Disclosure

403.4 - Hazardous Chemical Disclosure

The board authorizes the development of a comprehensive hazardous chemical communication program for the school district to disseminate information about hazardous chemicals in the workplace.

Each employee shall annually review information about hazardous substances in the workplace.  When an employee is hired or transferred to a new position or work site, the information and training, if necessary, shall be included in the employees’ orientation.  When an additional hazardous substance enters the workplace, information about it shall be distributed to all employees and training shall be conducted for the appropriate employees.    The superintendent shall maintain a file indicating which hazardous substances are present in the workplace and when training and information sessions take place.

Employees who will be instructing or otherwise working with students shall disseminate information about the hazardous chemicals with which they will be working as part of the instructional program.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

                                

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:33

403.5 - Harassment

403.5 - Harassment

Harassment of or by school district employees will not be tolerated in the school district.  School district includes school district facilities, school district premises, and non-school district property if the employee is at any school district sponsored, school district approved or school district related activity or function, such as field trips or athletic events where the employee is engaged in school district business.

Harassment includes, but is not limited to that based upon perceived or actual race, color, creed, sex, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.   Harassment by board members, administrators, employees, parents, vendors, and others doing business with the school district is prohibited.  Employees whose behavior is alleged to be in violation of this policy will be subject to the investigation procedure which may result in discipline, up to and including, termination or other appropriate action.  Other individuals whose behavior is alleged to be in violation of this policy will be subject to appropriate sanctions as determined and imposed by the superintendent or board.

Sexual harassment shall include, but not be limited to, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

  • submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment;
  • submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as a basis for employment decisions affecting such individual; or
  • such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.

Other types of harassment may include, but not be limited to, jokes, stories, pictures or objects that are offensive, tend to alarm, annoy, abuse or demean certain protected individuals and groups.

Employees who believe they have suffered harassment shall report such matters to the investigator for harassment complaints. However, claims regarding harassment may also be reported to the alternate investigator for harassment complaints.

Upon receiving a complaint, the investigator will confer with the complainant to obtain an understanding and a statement of the facts.  It is the responsibility of the investigator to promptly and reasonably investigate claims of harassment and to pass the findings on to the superintendent who will complete such further investigation as deemed necessary and take such final action as deemed appropriate.  Information regarding an investigation of harassment is confidential to the extent possible, and those individuals who are involved in the investigation will not discuss information regarding the complaint outside the investigation process.

No one will retaliate against an employee or student because they have filed a harassment complaint, assisted or participated in a harassment investigation, proceeding, or hearing regarding a harassment charge or because they have opposed language or conduct that violates this policy.

It is the responsibility of the board members, administrators, licensed and classified employees, and others having business or other contact with the school district to act appropriately under this policy.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent and investigator to inform and educate employees and others involved with the school district about harassment and the school district's policy prohibiting harassment.

This policy and accompanying regulations will only apply when an employee is the victim of an alleged harasser or an employee is the alleged harasser.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  10-11-99, 10-14-02, 1-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  12-13-99, 2-16-22                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:28

403.5E1 - Harassment Complaint Form

403.5E1 - Harassment Complaint Form

Name of complainant: __________________________________________________________

Position of complainant:  ________________________________________________________

Date of complaint:  _____________________________________________________________

Name of alleged harasser: ________________________________________________________

Date and place of incident or incidents:  _____________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Description of misconduct:  _______________________________________________________                                      

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

Name of witnesses (if any):   ______________________________________________________                                      

______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

Evidence of harassment, i.e., letters, photos, etc. (attach evidence if possible):  ________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

Any other information:   ___________________________________________________________                                              

_______________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

 

I agree that all of the- information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

 

Signature:   ____________________________

 

Date:  _______________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:32

403.5E2 - Witness Disclosure Form

403.5E2 - Witness Disclosure Form

Name of witness:   _________________________________________________________

Position of witness:   _______________________________________________________

 Date of testimony, interview:  ________________________________________________

 Description of instance witnessed:  ____________________________________________                                   

_________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

Any other information:  _______________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

 

Signature: ___________________________________                                            

Date: _______________________________________       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:31

403.5R1 - Harassment Investigation Procedures

403.5R1 - Harassment Investigation Procedures

COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

An employee who believes that they have been harassed shall notify the administrator that is not the immediate supervisor, the designated investigator.  The alternate investigator is the building administrator that is the immediate supervisor.  The investigator may request that the employee complete the harassment complaint form and turn over evidence of the harassment, including, but not limited to, letters, tapes or pictures  Information received during the investigation shall be kept confidential to the extent possible. The investigator with the approval of the superintendent or the superintendent has the authority to initiate a harassment investigation in the absence of a written complaint.

INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE

The investigator shall reasonably and promptly commence the investigation upon receipt-of the complaint. The investigator shall interview the complainant and the alleged harasser. The alleged harasser may file a written statement refuting or explaining the behavior outlined in the complaint. The investigator may also interview witnesses as deemed appropriate. Upon completion of the investigation, the investigator shall report to the superintendent. The investigator will outline the findings of the investigation to the superintendent.

RESOLUTION OF THE COMPLAINT

The superintendent will complete the next step in the investigation reasonably and promptly upon receipt of the investigator's report.   Following the investigators report, the superintendent may investigate further, if deemed necessary, and make a determination of the appropriate next step which may include discipline up to and including termination or other appropriate sanctions. Prior to the determination of the appropriate remedial action, the superintendent may, at the superintendent's discretion, interview the complainant and the alleged harasser.  The superintendent shall file a written report closing the case. The complainant, the alleged harasser, and the investigator shall receive notice as to the conclusion of the investigation.

POINTS TO REMEMBER IN THE INVESTIGATION

•  Evidence uncovered in the investigation is confidential.

•  Complaints must be taken seriously and investigated.

•  No retaliation will be taken against individuals involved in the investigation process.

•  Retaliators will be disciplined up to and including termination or receive other appropriate sanctions.

CONFLICTS

If the investigator is the alleged harasser or a witness to the incident the alternate investigator shall be the investigator. If the alleged harasser is the superintendent, the alternate investigator shall take the superintendent's place in the investigation process.   The alternate investigator shall report the findings to the board.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:30

403.6 - Substance-Free Workplace

403.6 - Substance-Free Workplace

The board expects the school district and its employees to remain substance free. No employee shall unlawfully manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess, use, or be under the influence of in the workplace any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbituate, marijuana or any other controlled substance or alcoholic beverage as defined by federal or state law.  Workplace includes school district facilities, school district premises or school district vehicles.  Workplace also includes non-school district property if the employee is at any school district sponsored, school district approved or school district related activity, event or function, such as field trips or athletic events where students are under the control of the school district or where the employee is engaged in school district business.

If an employee is convicted of a violation of any criminal alcohol or drug offense in any setting, the employee shall notify the employee's supervisor of the conviction within five days of the conviction.

The superintendent will make the determination whether to require the employee to undergo substance abuse treatment or to discipline the employee.  An employee who violates the terms of this policy may be subject to discipline up to and including termination.  An employee who violates this policy may be required to successfully participate in a substance abuse treatment program approved by the board.  If the employee fails to successfully participate in a program, the employee may be subject to discipline up to and including termination.

The superintendent shall be responsible for publication and dissemination of this policy to each employee.  In addition, the superintendent shall oversee the establishment of a substance-free awareness program to educate employees about the dangers of substance abuse and notify them of available substance abuse treatment programs.

 

           

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:24

403.6E1 - Substance Free Workplace Notice to Employees and Acknowledgement Form

403.6E1 - Substance Free Workplace Notice to Employees and Acknowledgement Form

EMPLOYEES ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED it is a violation of the Substance-Free Workplace policy for an employee to unlawfully manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess, use or be under the influence of in the workplace any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbituate, marijuana or any other controlled substance or alcohol, as defined in federal and/or state law.

Workplace is defined as the site for the performance of work done in the capacity as an employee.  This includes school district facilities, other school district premises or school district vehicles. Workplace also includes non-school district property if the employee is at any school district sponsored, school district approved or school district related activity, event or function, such as field trips or athletic events where students are under the control of the school district or where the employee is engaged in school district business.

Employees who violate the terms of the substance-free workplace policy may be required to successfully participate in a substance abuse treatment program approved by the board.      The superintendent retains the discretion to discipline an employee for violation of the substance-free workplace policy. If the employee fails to successfully participate in such a program the employee shall be subject to discipline up to and including termination.

EMPLOYEES ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED it is a condition of their continued employment that they comply with the above policy of the school district and will notify their supervisor of their conviction of any criminal alcohol or drug offense in any setting , no later than five days after the conviction.

SUBSTANCE-FREE WORKPLACE ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORM

I, ___________________________, have read and understand the substance-free workplace policy.  I understand that if I violate the substance-free workplace policy, I may be subject to discipline up to and including termination or I may be required to participate in a substance abuse treatment program.  I understand that if I am required to participate in a substance abuse treatment program and if I fail to successfully participate in a substance abuse treatment program or I refuse to participate, I understand I may be subject to discipline up to and including termination.   I also understand that if I am convicted of a criminal alcohol or drug offense in any setting, I must report that conviction to my supervisor within five days of the conviction.

_______________________________________                              ___________________________
(Signature of Employee)                                                                                      (Date)

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:26

403.6R1 - Substance Free Work Place Regulation

403.6R1 - Substance Free Work Place Regulation

If the superintendent suspects an employee bas a substance abuse problem, the superintendent  shall follow these procedures:

  1. Identification - the superintendent shall document the evidence the superintendent has which leads the superintendent to conclude the employee bas violated the substance-free workplace policy. After the superintendent has determined there has been a violation of the substance-free workplace policy, the superintendent shall discuss the problem with the employee.
  2. Discipline - if, after the discussion with the employee, the superintendent determines there has been a violation of the substance-free workplace policy, the superintendent may recommend discipline up to and including termination or may recommend the employee seek substance abuse treatment.  Participation in a substance abuse treatment program is voluntary.
  3. Failure to participate in referral - if the employee refuses to participate in a substance abuse treatment program or if the employee does not successfully complete a substance abuse treatment program, the employee may be subject to discipline up to and including termination.
  4. Conviction - if an employee is convicted of a criminal alcohol or drug offense in any setting, the employee must notify the employer of the conviction within five days of the conviction.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:25

403.7 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program

403.7 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program

Employees who operate school district vehicles are subject to drug and alcohol testing if a commercial driver's license is required to operate the school district vehicle and the school district vehicle transports sixteen or more persons including the driver or the school district vehicle weighs twenty-six thousand one pounds or more.  For purposes of the drug and alcohol testing program, the term employees includes applicants who have been offered a position to operate a school district vehicle.

The employees operating a school district vehicle as described above are subject to pre-employment drug testing and random, reasonable suspicion, and post-accident drug and alcohol testing. Employees operating school district vehicles will not perform a safety sensitive function within four hours of using alcohol.  Employees governed by this policy are subject to the drug and alcohol testing program beginning the first day they operate or are offered a position to operate school district vehicles and continue to be subject to the drug and alcohol testing program as long as they may be required to perform a safety-sensitive function.  Employees with questions about the drug and alcohol testing program may contact the school district contact person, the Superintendent, at 1505 Washington Street, PO Box 159, Ruthven, Iowa 51358.

Employees who violate the terms of this policy are subject to discipline up to and including termination. Employees who violate this policy may be required to successfully participate in a substance abuse evaluation and, if recommended, a substance abuse treatment program at their sole cost and expense, as a condition of continued employment.  Employees who fail to or refuse to participate may be subject to discipline up to and including termination.

The superintendent will inform applicants of the requirement for drug and alcohol testing in notices or advertisements for employment. The superintendent will also be responsible for publication and dissemination of this policy and forms to employees operating school district vehicles. The superintendent will oversee a substance-free awareness program to educate employees about the dangers of substance abuse and notify them of available substance abuse treatment resources and programs.

 

 

Approved: 8-11-03       
Reviewed:  10-10-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16           
Revised:  04-13-05,
2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:20

403.7E1 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Notice To Employees

403.7E1 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Notice To Employees

EMPLOYEES GOVERNED BY THE DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING POLICY ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED they are subject to the school district's drug and alcohol testing program for pre-employment drug testing and random, reasonable suspicion, and post-accident drug and alcohol testing as outlined in the drug and alcohol testing program policy, its supporting documents, and the law. 

Employees who operate school district vehicles are subject to drug and alcohol testing if a commercial driver's license is required to operate the school district vehicle and the school district vehicle transports sixteen or more persons including the driver or the school district vehicle weighs twenty-six thousand pounds or more. For purposes of the drug and alcohol-testing program, employees also include applicants who have been offered a position to operate a school district vehicle. The employees operating a school district vehicle are subject to the drug and alcohol testing program beginning the first day they operate or are offered a position to operate a school district vehicle and continue to be subject to the drug and alcohol-testing program.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to inform employees of the drug and alcohol testing program requirements.  Employees with questions regarding the drug and alcohol testing requirements will contact the school district contact person.

EMPLOYEES GOVERNED BY THE DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING POLICY ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED that employees violating this policy, its supporting documents or the law may be subject to discipline up to and including termination or offered the opportunity to participate in counselling as a condition of continued employment. If offered, as a condition of continued employment, employees violating this policy, its supporting documents, regulations or the law bear the personal and financial responsibility to successfully participate in a substance abuse evaluation and a substance abuse treatment program recommended by the substance abuse professional. Employees who are required to participate in and who fail to or refuse to successfully participate in a substance abuse evaluation or recommended substance abuse treatment program will be subject to discipline up to and including termination.

EMPLOYEES GOVERNED BY THE DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING POLICY ARE FURTHER NOTIFIED it is a condition of their continued employment to comply with the drug and alcohol testing program policy, its supporting documents, and the law. It is a condition of continued employment for employees operating a school district vehicle to notify their supervisor of any prescription medication they are using. Drug and alcohol testing records about a driver are confidential and are released in accordance with this policy, its supporting documents, and the law.

EMPLOYEES GOVERNED BY THE DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING POLICY ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED they are subject to the school district's drug and alcohol testing program for pre-employment drug testing and random, reasonable suspicion, post-accident, return-to-duty, and follow-up drug and alcohol testing as outlined in the drug and alcohol testing program policy, its supporting documents, and the law.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  12-15-18, 03-12-12, 12/14/16           
Revised:  04-13-05, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:22

403.7E2 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Acknowledgement Form

403.7E2 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Acknowledgement Form

I,  ___________________________________  (Name of Employee),  have received a copy, read, and understand the drug and alcohol testing program policy and its supporting documents.  I consent to submit to the drug and alcohol testing program as required by the drug and alcohol testing program policy, its supporting documents, and the law.

I understand that if I violate the drug and alcohol testing program policy, its supporting documents or the law, I may be subject to discipline up to and including termination or I may be required to successfully participate in a substance abuse evaluation and a substance abuse treatment program, if recommended by the substance abuse professional.  If I am required to and fail to or refuse to successfully participate in a substance abuse evaluation or recommended substance abuse treatment program, I understand I may be subject to discipline up to and including termination.

Furthermore, I know and understand that I am required to submit to a controlled substance test, the results of which must be received by this employer before being employed by the school district and before being allowed to perform a safety-sensitive function.  I also understand that if the results of the pre-employment test are positive, that I will not be considered further for employment with the school district.

I also understand that I must inform my supervisor of any prescription medication I use.  I further understand that drug and alcohol testing records about me are confidential and may be released in accordance with this policy, its supporting documents or the law.

 

 

______________________________________________                ______________________
Signature of Employee                                                                                              Date

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:23

403.7E3 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Pre-Employment Drug Test Acknowledgement Form

403.7E3 - Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Pre-Employment Drug Test Acknowledgement Form

I, (name of applicant), have been informed of the requirement to submit to a drug test prior to being employed by the school district to perform a safety-sensitive function. I consent to submit to the drug and alcohol testing program as required by the drug and alcohol testing program policy, its supporting documents and the law.

I understand that the results of my drug test will be shared with the school district. I also understand that if I have a positive drug test result, I will not be considered further for employment with the school district.

I further understand that the drug and alcohol testing records and information about me is confidential, and may be released at my request or in accordance with the law.

 

 

____________________________________________                    ________________________
(Signature of Applicant)                                                                                        (Date)

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:21

404 - Employee Conduct and Appearance

404 - Employee Conduct and Appearance

Employees are role models for the students who come in contact with them during and after school hours.   The board recognizes the positive effect employees can have on students in this capacity.  Employees shall dress themselves, groom themselves, and conduct themselves in a manner appropriate to the educational environment.

Employees shall conduct themselves in a professional manner.  Employees shall dress in attire appropriate for their position.  Clothing should be neat, clean, and in good taste.  Discretion and common sense call for an avoidance of extremes which would interfere with or have an effect on the educational process.

Licensed employees of the school district shall follow the code of ethics for their profession as established by the Board of Educational Examiners Commission.

It shall be the responsibility of the building principals to counsel employees assigned to their attendance center on appearance and conduct when the individual appearance may have a negative impact on the learning environment. Employees who do not follow this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 11-14-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 12/14/16
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:38

405 - Employee Suspension

405 - Employee Suspension

Employees shall perform their assigned job, respect board policy, and obey the law.  The superintendent is authorized to suspend an employee pending board action on a discharge, for investigation of charges against the employee, and for disciplinary purposes.  It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to suspend an employee with or without pay.

In the event of a suspension, appropriate due process shall be followed.

 

 

 Approved:  7-1-92    
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 11-14-05, 12-15-08, 1-16-17
Revised:  2-16-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:39

406 - Licensed Employee Professional Growth

406 - Licensed Employee Professional Growth dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:40

406.1 - Employee Publication or Creation of Materials

406.1 - Employee Publication or Creation of Materials

Materials created by employees and the financial gain therefrom shall be the property of the school district if school district materials and time were used in their creation and/or such materials were created in the scope of the employees’ employment.  The employee must seek prior written approval of the superintendent concerning such activities.

           

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 11-14-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 
1-16-17
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:17

406.2 - Licensed Employee Tutoring

406.2 - Licensed Employee Tutoring

Every effort will be made by the licensed employees to help students with learning problems before recommending parents engage a tutor.  Since there are exceptional cases when tutoring will help students overcome learning deficiencies, tutoring may be approved by the superintendent.

Licensed employees may only tutor students other than those for whom the teacher is currently exercising teaching, administrative or supervisory responsibility.

 Tutoring may not take place during regular school hours and school district facilities, equipment, materials or supplies will not be used by any employee or private citizen for private tutoring, lessons, coaching or other educational services or for an employee’s private business or activities without prior approval of the superintendent.

 

 

Approved:   7-1-92    
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 11-14-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 1-16-17
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:19

406.3- Licensed Employee Evaluation

406.3- Licensed Employee Evaluation

Code No.  406.3

LICENSED EMPLOYEE EVALUATION

Evaluation of licensed employees on their skills, abilities, and competence is an ongoing process supervised by the building principals and conducted by approved evaluators.  The goal of the formal evaluation of licensed employees, other than administrators, but including extracurricular employees, is to improve the education program, to maintain licensed employees who meet or exceed the board's standards of performance, to clarify the licensed employee's role, to ascertain the areas in need of improvement, to clarify the immediate priorities of the board, and to develop a working relationship between the administrators and other employees.

The formal evaluation criteria is in writing and approved by the board.  The formal evaluation will provide an opportunity for the evaluator and the licensed employee to discuss performance and the future areas of growth.  The formal evaluation is completed by the evaluator, signed by the licensed employee and filed in the licensed employee's personnel file.  This policy supports, and does not preclude, the ongoing informal evaluation of the licensed employee's skills, abilities and competence.  

Licensed employees will be required to:

  • Demonstrate the ability to enhance academic performance and support for and implementation of the school district’s student achievement goals.

  • Demonstrate competency in content knowledge appropriate to the teaching position.

  • Demonstrate competency in planning and preparation for instruction.

  • Use strategies to deliver instruction that meets the multiple learning needs of students.

  • Use a variety of methods to monitor student learning.

  • Demonstrate competence in classroom management.

  • Engage in professional growth.

  • Fulfill professional responsibilities established by the school district.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure licensed employees are evaluated.

 

Approved    10-18-2023                 Reviewed                    Revised    

 

awoods@gt.rati… Wed, 10/25/2023 - 09:31

406.4 Licensed Employee Professional Development

406.4 Licensed Employee Professional Development

406.4 

LICENSED EMPLOYEE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 

The board encourages licensed employees to attend and participate in professional development activities to maintain, develop, and extend their skills. The board will maintain and support an in-service program for licensed employees. Professional development activities will include activities that promote and/or teach about compliance with applicable Iowa laws. 

For all professional development programs the district requires employees to take, the district will provide to the employee notice indicating the section of the law, or rules adopted by the state board of education or board of educational examiners that the district determines requires the employee to participate in the professional development program. 

Requests for attendance or participation in a development program, other than those development programs sponsored by the school district, are made to the superintendent. Approval by the superintendent must be obtained prior to attendance by a licensed employee in a professional development program when the attendance would result in the licensed employee being excused from their duties or when the school district pays the expenses for the program. 

The superintendent will have sole discretion to allow or disallow licensed employees to attend or participate in the requested event. When making this determination, the superintendent will consider the value of the program for the licensed employee and the school district, the effect of the licensed employee's absence on the education program and school district operations and the school district's financial situation as well as other factors deemed relevant in the judgment of the superintendent. Requests that involve unusual expenses or overnight travel must also be approved by the board.

 

Approved : 11-15-23 Reviewed: Revised:

 

awoods@gt.rati… Mon, 11/20/2023 - 09:29

407 - Employee Family and Medical Leave

407 - Employee Family and Medical Leave

Unpaid family and medical leave will be granted up to 12 weeks per year to assist employees in balancing family and work life.  For purposes of this policy, year is defined as a twelve (12) month period measured backward from the date an employee uses any family and medical leaveRequests for family and medical leave will be made to the superintendent.

Paid leave available to the employee will run concurrently with the family and medical leave, as outlined in the family and medical leave administrative rules.

Employees eligible for family and medical leave must comply with the family and medical leave administrative rules prior to starting family and medical leave.

Employees shall be required to complete all necessary family and medical leave act documentation in order for any leave to be approved as family and medical leave.  The required documentation shall be as outlined in this policy and as required by the Department of Labor.  All documentation and forms shall be made available in the administrative offices of each building.

The requirements stated in the master contract between employees in that certified collective bargaining unit and the board regarding family and medical leave of such employees and the requirements stated in any other contract, collective or individual between any employees and the board and/or district regarding family and medical leave of such employees will be followed.  This policy provision, as well as all policy provisions, concerning family and medical leave may be applied differently to classified, non-classified, licensed, non-licensed, and other classifications of employees.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  1-16-17               
Revised:  01-17-12, 9-20-17, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:40

408 - Other Licensed Employees

408 - Other Licensed Employees dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:42

408.1 - Substitute Teachers

408.1 - Substitute Teachers

Substitute teachers, if their services are needed, shall be notified by the superintendent, building principal or designee.

Building level administrators will maintain an approved list of substitute teachers. Individuals on the list shall meet all the requirements set by law. Individuals whose names do not appear on the list will not be employed as a substitute without specific approval of the superintendent.

Substitute teachers will be paid at a rate established by the board.  If a substitute teacher teaches in the same assignment on ten consecutive school days, the substitute shall be paid at the rate of 150% of the substitute teacher rate starting on the 11th consecutive school day for that substitute assignment.  In no case will an individual teacher personally compensate a substitute teacher.

All substitute teachers are required to complete a federal and state W-4 and Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9 with an attached copy of two forms of identification stated on the Verification Form. Substitute teachers must also submit a copy of their license and a current physical examination form. Substitute teachers will be required to complete the online training sessions to include: Bloodborne Pathogens, Right to Know, and Mandatory Reporter-Child and Dependent Adult Abuse and present a certificate of completion.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99,10-14-02, 11-14-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12
Revised:  3-13-17, 7-16-18       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:11

408.2 - Shared Licensed Employees

408.2 - Shared Licensed Employees

The board may make arrangements for sharing employees with neighboring school districts in order to expand the opportunities available in the education program and the operation of the school district.  It shall be within the discretion of the board to determine when and with which school district sharing agreements will be made.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to bring to the board's attention opportunities for sharing employees with neighboring school districts.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  1-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 11-14-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 3-13-17
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:08

408.3 - Summer School Licensed Employees

408.3 - Summer School Licensed Employees

It is within the discretion of the board to offer an education program during the summer recess.  Licensed employees who volunteer or who are appointed to deliver the summer education program are compensated in addition to their regular duties during the school academic year unless such arrangements are made prior to determining the employee's compensation for the year.

Should the board determine a summer education program is necessary, licensed employees will be given the opportunity to volunteer for the positions available.  If the board determines a course must be offered and no licensed employee volunteers for the position, the board will make the necessary arrangements to fill the position.  The board will consider applications from volunteers of current licensed employees in conjunction with other applications.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board regarding the need for and the delivery of the summer education program.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed: 11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 11-14-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 3-13-17
Revised:  12-14-15, 9-20-17, 2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:05

408.4 - Student Teachers - Internships

408.4 - Student Teachers - Internships

The board will cooperate with post-secondary educational institutions to assist in the practical preparation of teachers and other licensed employee positions.  Student teachers and other student internships may be assigned duties in the school district.

Licensed employees shall not be required to utilize student teachers or student interns.  Experienced teachers and teachers in good standing shall be allowed to have student teachers or student interns.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to make arrangements with the post-secondary educational institutions for student teachers and student internships.   Such arrangements shall safeguard the interest of the student teachers and student interns, the post-secondary educational institution, and the school district.

It shall be the responsibility of the post-secondary educational institution to provide sufficient supervision over the work of these student teachers to make their presence profitable.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 11-14-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 3-13-17
Revised:  2-16-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 07/07/2022 - 09:07

409 - Classified Employee Dismissal

409 - Classified Employee Dismissal

The board believes classified employees should perform their jobs, respect board policy, and obey the law.  A classified employee may be dismissed upon thirty day notice or immediately for cause.  Appropriate due process procedures shall be followed.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation for dismissal to the board. A classified employee may be dismissed for any reason, including, but not limited to, incompetence, willful neglect of duty, reduction in force, willful violation of board policy or administrative regulations or a violation of the law.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  11-14-94, 11-11-97, 10-11-99, 10-14-02, 11-14-05, 12-15-08, 03-12-12, 3-13-17
Revised:  2-16-22                                                     

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:42

500 - STUDENTS

500 - STUDENTS Jen@iowaschool… Tue, 11/23/2021 - 07:54

501 - Student Attendance

501 - Student Attendance dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:50

501.1 - Resident Students

501.1 - Resident Students

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

The residence of a student means the place, abode or dwelling of the student.  Generally, the legal dwelling of minors is the same as their parents.  A child 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 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.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92              
Reviewed:  2-2-94,12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 14:02

501.2 - Nonresident Students

501.2 - Nonresident Students

Students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school but who are not legal residents of the school district may be admitted into the school district at the discretion of the superintendent upon application and payment of tuition.  The tuition rate 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 school 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 in the school district until they graduate without the payment of tuition.  These students must have an adult, who resides in the school district, identified for purposes of administration.

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

 

 

Approved: 7-1-92         
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-058-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 14:05

501.3 - Compulsory Attendance

501.3 - Compulsory Attendance

Parents within the school district who have children over age six and under age sixteen by September 15, in proper physical and mental condition to attend school, will have the children attend the school district at the attendance center designated by the board.  Students will attend school the number of days or hours school is in session in accordance with the school calendar.  Students of compulsory attendance age will attend school a minimum of 150 days.  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 excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or judge;
  • are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
  • are unable to attend school due to legitimate medical reasons;
  • has an individualized education program that affects the child’s attendance;
  • has a plan under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act, 29 U.S.C. §794, that affects the child’s attendance;
  • are attending an approved or probationally approved private college preparatory school;
  • are attending an accredited nonpublic school; 
  • are receiving independent private instruction; or,
  • are receiving competent private instruction.

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

 

 

 

Approved: 11-11-98  
Reviewed:  01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15      
Revised:  12-14-98, 4-10-23, 8-21-24

 

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

501.4 - Entrance - Admissions

501.4 - Entrance - Admissions

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

Before the student may enroll in the school district’s education program, the board shall require evidence of age and residency in the form of a birth certificate or other evidence of age. 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.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-94, 01-08-01, 11-10-01, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised: 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 14:06

501.5 - Attendance Center Assignment

501.5 - Attendance Center Assignment

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

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

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

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15        
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 14:04

501.6 - Student Transfers In

501.6 - Student Transfers In

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

The school district shall request the student's cumulative records from the previous school district.  If the student cannot offer proof of grade level, the principal will make the grade level determination. The principal 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 principal shall determine the amount of credits to be transferred.  If the student has not previously attended an accredited school, it is within the principal's discretion to accept or reject credits or grades.

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

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  01-05-96, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:59

501.7 - Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals

501.7 - Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals

If the student's parents wish to withdraw or transfer the student from the school district prior to completing and graduating from the education program, they shall notify the principal 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 shall state the student’s final day of attendance. If the student is not enrolling in another school district, the school district shall 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 shall notify the principal in writing. This notice shall 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 shall forward the cumulative records and notify the parents the records have been sent.  The notice shall 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 non-public school, the parents shall notify the principal that the student is receiving competent private instruction and file the necessary competent private instruction reports.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                            
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:59

501.8 - Student Attendance Records

501.8 - Student Attendance Records

As part of the school district records of students, the daily attendance of each student shall be recorded and maintained on file with the permanent records of the board secretary.

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

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-26, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 14:07

501.9 - Student Absences and Truancy

501.9 - Student Absences and Truancy

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

Chronic absenteeism/absences means any absence from school for more than ten percent of the days in the grading period established by the district.

Truant/truancy means a child of compulsory attendance age who is absent from school for any reason for at least twenty percent of the days in the grading period. Truancy does not apply to the following students who:

  • have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or has obtained a high school equivalency diploma
  • are excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or judge;
  • are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
  • are unable to attend school due to legitimate medical reasons;
  • have an individualized education program than affects the student's attendance;
  • have a plan under section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act, 29 U.S.C. §794, that affects the child's attendance;
  • are attending a private college preparatory school accredited or probationally accredited;
  • are excused under Iowa Code §299.22; and
  • are exempt under Iowa Code §299.24.

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

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

 

 

 

Approved:  11-11-1992         
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-8-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  12-12-94, 3-11-13, 4-10-23, 8-21-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 14:00

501.9R1-Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy

501.9R1-Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy

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

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

SECTION I – Legal Requirements 

Chronic Absenteeism

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

School Engagement Meeting

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

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

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

Absenteeism Prevention Plan

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

SECTION II – Academic and Disciplinary Requirements

Students who are absent without a reasonable excuse, as determined by the principal, will be assigned appropriate disciplinary sanctions. Reasonable excuses include illness, family emergencies, recognized religious observances and school-sponsored or approved activities.  Reasonable excuses may also include family trips or vacations approved by the building principal if the student's work is finished prior to the trip or vacation.

Parents are expected to telephone the school office to report a student's absence prior to 8 a.m. on the day of the absence.  Students with unexcused absences may also be referred to the school counselor.

School work missed because of absences must be made up within two times the number of days absent.  The time allowed for make-up work may be extended at the discretion of the classroom teacher.

Students will be allowed to make up all work missed due to any absence and will receive full credit for make-up work handed in on time.  Teachers will not have attendance or grading practices that are in conflict with this provision.

 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 08/22/2024 - 15:13

501.11 - Student Release During School Hours

501.11 - Student Release During School Hours

Students will be allowed to leave the school district facilities during their lunch period only with prior authorization from their parents, unless the parent appears personally at the student’s attendance center to arrange for the release of the student during school hours or with the permission of the principal.  Seniors will be allowed to leave school district facilities during the day in compliance with the administrative rules adopted annually by the board.

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

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

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-87-97, 01-08-01, 11-1-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:58

501.12 - Pregnant Students

501.12 - Pregnant Students

The board encourages pregnant students to continue to attend the education program as long as they are physically able to do so.

The pregnant student may notify the principal or the guidance counselor as soon as she is aware of the pregnancy. The school district 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 the absence. The student shall resume classes upon the recommendation of her physician.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-0897, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:54

501.13 - Students of Legal Age

501.13 - Students of Legal Age

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

Parents will be allowed to access and view the student's records with 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.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  07-01-92, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:54

501.14 - Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Sending School District

501.14 - Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Sending School District

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

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

Parents of children who will begin kindergarten in the school district are exempt from the open enrollment March 1 deadline. Parents of children who will begin kindergarten and prekindergarten children enrolled in special education programs and included in the district’s basic enrollment will file in the same manner set forth above by September 1. Parents who have good cause as defined by law for failing to meet the March 1 deadline may make an open enrollment request by September1 unless another deadline applies. 

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

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

An open enrollment request out of the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.  The determining factor for approval of such a 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.

 

 

 

Approved:  01-08-90             
Reviewed:  01-08-01, 1-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  09-20-05, 3-11-13, 4-10-23,8-21-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:52

501.15 - Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures As a Receiving School District

501.15 - Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures As a Receiving School District

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

The superintendent will take action on the open enrollment request no later than June 1 in the year preceding the first year desired for open enrollment.

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

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

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

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

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

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. For children requiring special education, the receiving district will complete and provide to the resident district the documentation needed to seek Medicaid reimbursement for eligible services.

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.

 

 

 

Approved:   01-08-90               
Reviewed:  11-13-00, 7-13-15               
Revised:  12-08-03, 9-14-09, 4-10-23,8-21-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:53

501.16 - Homeless Children and Youth

501.16 - Homeless Children and Youth

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Approved: 1/13/03
Reviewed: 11/1/03, 11/13/06, 2/10/10, 11/12/12, 7/13/15   
Revised: 9/20/05, 3/11/13, 12/12/16, 7-10-17, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:51

502 - Student Rights and Responsibilities

502 - Student Rights and Responsibilities dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:18

502.1 - Student Appearance

502.1 - Student Appearance

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

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

The board  expects  students  to be clean and well-groomed  and wear clothes in good  repair and appropriate for the time, place, and occasion.   Clothing, hats and/or head coverings or other apparel promoting products illegal for use by minors or 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.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  07-11-95, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:48

502.2 - Care of School Property/Vandalism

502.2 - Care of School Property/Vandalism

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

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-13-06, 11-10-03, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:47

502.3 - Use of Motor Vehicles

502.3 - Use of Motor Vehicles

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

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

Students who 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.

 

 

 

Approved:  1-14-2002           
Reviewed:  11-10-03, 11-13-06, 2-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23, 9-18-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:46

502.4 - Student Expression and Student Publications Code

502.4 - Student Expression and Student Publications Code

Student Expression

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

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

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

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

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

Student Publications

Students may produce official school district publications as part of the curriculum under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the principal.  Official school district publications include material produced in 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 district 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 district publications are free from prior restraint by employees or officials except as provided by law.  A faculty advisor will supervise student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and to comply with the law including, but not limited to, the restrictions against unlawful speech.  The production of official school publications is guided by the law and by the ethical standards adopted by professional associations or societies of journalism.

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

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

Approved:      
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12. 7-13-15
Revised:  09-20-94, 4-10-23



 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:38

502.4R1 - Student Expression and Student Publications Code Regulation

502.4R1 - Student Expression and Student Publications Code Regulation

A. Student Expression defined:  Student Expression is speech, action or other forms of expression which convey a student’s beliefs, views or opinions.

B. Official school district publications defined:  An official school district publication is material produced by students in journalism, newspaper, yearbook or writing classes and distributed to students either free or for a fee.

C. Limitations to Student Expression

  1. No student will express, publish or distribute publication material which is:
    1. obscene;
    2. libelous;
    3. slanderous; or
    4. encourages students to:
      1. ​​​​​​​i. commit unlawful acts;
      2. violate lawful school regulations;
      3. cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient operation of the iv. school or school activity;
      4. disrupt or interfere with the education program;
      5. interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere; or
      6. infringe on the rights of others.

D. Responsibilities of students for official school district publications.

  1. Students writing or editing official school district publications will assign and edit the news, editorial, and feature contents of the official school district publications subject to the limitations of the student publications code and the law.
  2. Students will strive to achieve professional standards of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and thoroughness in each and every aspect of official school district publications.
  3. Students will strive to achieve professional standards of grammar, usage, punctuation and spelling for clarity and accuracy of official school district publications.

E. Responsibilities of faculty advisors for official school district publications.

Faculty advisors will supervise student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and to comply with the law including, but not limited to, the restrictions against unlawful speech. Official school district publications are produced under the supervision of a faculty advisor.  Faculty advisors to students producing official school district publications shall supervise the production of the student staff in order to maintain professional standards of English journalism.  School district employees acting within the scope of their professional ethics will not suffer adverse employment action or retaliated against for acting to protect a student for engaging in authorized student expression or for refusing to infringe on protected student expression.

F. School district employee rights

Any school district employee or official, acting within the scope of that person’s professional ethics, if any, shall not be dismissed, suspended, disciplined, reassigned, transferred, subject to termination or nonrenewal of a teaching contract or extracurricular contract or otherwise retaliated against for acting to protect a student for engaging in expression protected by law or refusing to infringe upon student expression that is protected by law.

G. Liability

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

H. Appeal procedure

  1. Students who believe they have been unreasonably restricted in their exercise of expression in an official student publication will seek review of the decision through the student grievance procedure set out in applicable board policy.
  2. Persons who believe they have been aggrieved by a student-produced official student publication will file their complaint through the citizen grievance procedure set out in applicable  board policy.

I. Time, place, and manner of restrictions on student expression.

  1. Student expression may be conveyed and official student publications may be distributed in a reasonable manner on or off school district premises.
  2. Student expression and distribution of official school district publications in a reasonable manner will not encourage students to:
    1. ​​​​​​​commit unlawful acts;
    2. violate school rules;
    3. cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school district activity;
    4. disrupt or interfere with the education program;
    5. interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere; or
    6. infringe on the rights of others.

​​​​​​​

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:40

502.5 - Student Complaints and Grievances

502.5 - Student Complaints and Grievances

Creating an environment where students feel comfortable addressing their concerns in a meaningful manner is vital to the learning process.  It is the goal of the board to resolve student complaints at the lowest organizational level. Student complaints and grievances regarding board policy or administrative regulations or other matters should first be addressed to the student's teacher or another licensed employees, other than the administration, for resolution of the complaint. 

If the complaint cannot be resolved by student’s teacher or other licensed employee, the student may discuss the matter with the principal within five school days.  If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within five 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.  The board retains discretion as to whether to consider or take action on any complaint.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-13-06, 11-10-03, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:45

502.6 - Student Lockers

502.6 - Student Lockers

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

To ensure students are properly maintaining their assigned locker, the principal of the building may periodically inspect all or a random selection the 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.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  07-01-92, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:44

502.7 - Weapons

502.7 - Weapons

The board believes weapons, other dangerous objects, look-a-likes, and items used as weapons 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, look-a-likes, and items used as weapons. Weapons, other dangerous objects, look-a-likes, and items used as weapons will be taken from students and others who bring them onto the school district property or onto property within the jurisdiction of the school district or from students who are within the control of the school district.

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

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

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

 

Approved:
Reviewed: 11/10/03, 11/13/06, 2/10/10, 11/12/12, 7,13/15                  

Revised:  1/3/03, 12/12/16, 7-10-17, 4-10-23, 8-21-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:36

502.8 - Use of Tobacco, Nicotine, Alcohol, and Controlled Substances

502.8 - Use of Tobacco, Nicotine, Alcohol, and Controlled Substances

502.8 

STUDENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE

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

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

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

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

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

The board believes the substance use prevention program will include:

Age-appropriate, evidence-based substance use prevention curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through twelve, which address the legal, social, and health consequences of tobacco/nicotine, controlled substance and alcohol use and which provide information about effective techniques for resisting social pressure to use tobacco/nicotine, controlled substances or alcohol;

A statement to students that the unlawful possession and use of nicotine, controlled substances, and alcohol is harmful to student well-being;

Standards of conduct for students that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, being under the influence of or distribution of tobacco/nicotine products, controlled substances, and/or alcohol by students on school district premises or as part of any of its activities;

A clear statement that disciplinary sanctions, up to and including suspension or expulsion and referral for prosecution, will be imposed on students who violate the policy and a description of those sanctions;

A statement that students may be required to complete a substance use evaluation to determine whether substance use disorder treatment is recommended and, if recommended, successfully complete an appropriate rehabilitation program;

Information about tobacco, nicotine, controlled substances, 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.

 

Approved:  11-11-91

Reviewed:  12-12-84, 12-08-97,01-08-01,11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15

Revised:  07-01-92, 4-10-23, 07-19-2024

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:35

502.9 - Search and Seizure

502.9 - Search and Seizure

School district property is held in public trust by the board. School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search students or protected student areas based on a reasonable and articulable suspicion that a school district policy, rule, regulation or law has been violated.  The search 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 district and provided as a courtesy to a student, even if the student provides the lock for it, will not create a protected student area and will not give rise to an expectation of privacy with respect to the locker, desk or other facility.

School authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search.     Items of contraband may include but are not limited to nonprescription controlled substances, marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, apparatus used for controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco/nicotine, weapons, explosives, poisons, and stolen property.  Such items are not to be possessed by a student anywhere while they are on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school district owned and/or operated school district or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school district activities; and while away from school district 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 such illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials may cause material and substantial disruption to the school district environment or present 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 principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23                                                     

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:31

502.9E1 - Search and Seizure Checklist

502.9E1 - Search and Seizure Checklist

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

A.        Eyewitness account.

1.         By whom:________________________________________________________             

2.         Date/Time: ______________________________________________________            

3. Place:___________________________________________________________

4.         What was seen: __________________________________________________       

B.  Information from a reliable source.

1.         From whom: _____________________________________________________

2.         Time received:____________________________________________________             

3.         How information was received:______________________________________    

4.         Who received the information:_______________________________________           

5.         Describe information:______________________________________________           

C.  Suspicious behavior. Explain.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

D.  Student's past history and school district record . Explain

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

E.  Time of search:_______________________________________________________________

F.   Location of search: _________________________________________________________

G.   Student told purpose of search: ___________________________________________________                                

H.   Consent of student requested: _____________________________________________________________ 

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

A.        What were you searching for:  ________________________________________________

B.        Where did you search:                                                                                                           

C.        Sex of the student: __________________________________________________________

D..       Age of the student:: _________________________________________________________                                             

E.         Exigency of the situation: ____________________________________________________

F.         What type of search is being conducted: ________________________________________                         

G.        Who conducted the search: ________________________________________________                                   

Position:  ___________________________              Sex: ___________________________

H.  Witness(s):  __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________                                                  

III. Explanation of Search.

A.        Describe the time and location of the search: _______________________________________

 B.       Describe exactly what was searched: _____________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________                 

C.  What did the search yield:  ________________________________________________________

D.  What was seized: _______________________________________________________________

E.  Were any materials turned over to law enforcement: _________________________________________                      

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:34

502.9R1 - Search and Seizure Regulation

502.9R1 - Search and Seizure Regulation

I.          Searches, in general.

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

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

(1) eyewitness observations by employees;
(2) information received from reliable sources;
(3) suspicious behavior by the student; or,
(4) the student's past history and school record although this factor alone is not sufficient to provide the basis for reasonable suspicion.

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

(1) the age of the student;
(2) the sex of the student;
(3) the nature of the infraction; and
(4) the exigency requiring the search without delay.

II.        Types of Searches

A.        Personal Searches

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

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

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

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

B.        Locker and Desk Inspections

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

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

C.        Automobile Searches

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:32

502.10 - Interviews of Students by Outside Agencies

502.10 - Interviews of Students by Outside Agencies

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

Requests from law enforcement officers and those 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 district is the most appropriate setting for the interview, and who will be present during the interview.

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

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:18

502.11 - Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy

502.11 - Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy

 

Code No. 502.11 

ANTI-BULLYING/HARASSMENT POLICY 

The school district is committed to providing all students with a safe and civil school environment in which all members of the school district community are treated with dignity and respect. Bullying and/or harassment of or by students, staff, and volunteers is against federal, state, and local policy and is not tolerated by the board. Bullying and/or harassing behavior can seriously disrupt the ability of school district employees to maintain a safe and civil environment, and the ability of students to learn and succeed. Therefore, school district employees, volunteers, and students shall not engage in bullying or harassing behavior while on school district property, while on school district owned or school district operated vehicles, while attending or participating in school district sponsored or sanctioned activities, and while away from school district grounds if the conduct materially interferes with the orderly operation of the educational environment or is likely to do so. 

Complaints may be filed with the superintendent or superintendent’s designee pursuant to the regulation accompanying this policy. Complaints will be investigated within a reasonable time frame. 

A school district employee, volunteer or student or a student’s parent or guardian who promptly, reasonably, and in good faith reports an incident of bullying or harassment, in compliance with the procedures in the regulation, to the appropriate school district official designated by the school district, shall be immune from civil or criminal liability relating to such report and to participation in any administrative or judicial proceeding resulting from or relating to the report. 

Retaliation Prohibited 

Individuals who knowingly file false bullying or harassment complaints and any person who gives false statements in an investigation may be subject to discipline by appropriate measures. 

Any student found to have violated or retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, suspension and expulsion. Any school district employee found to have violated or retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, termination of employment. Any school district volunteer found to have violated or retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, removal from service and exclusion from school grounds. 

Definitions 

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

• Electronic means any communication involving the transmission of information by wire, radio, optic cable, electromagnetic or other similar means. Electronic includes, but is not limited to, communication via electronic mail, internet-based communications, pager service, cell phones, and electronic text messaging. 

• Harassment and bullying mean any repeated or potentially repeated electronic, written, verbal or physical act or or other ongoing conduct toward a student based on any trait or characteristic of the student which creates an objectively hostile school environment that meets one or more of the following conditions: 

• 1) Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or property. • 2) Has a substantial detrimental effect on the student’s physical or mental health. • 3) Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s academic performance. 

• 4) Has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities or privileges provided by a school district.

• Trait or characteristic of the student includes but is not limited to age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status or familial status. 

• Volunteer means an individual who has regular, significant contact with students. 

Publication of Policy 

The board will annually publish this policy. The policy may be publicized by the following means: • Inclusion in the student handbook, 

• Inclusion in the employee handbook 

• Inclusion in the registration materials 

• Inclusion on the school district or school district’s web site, 

• Copies available at the central administrative office at: 1505 Washington Street, Ruthven, Iowa 51358

Approved: 4-10-23 Reviewed: 11-15-23 Revised:

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:19

502.11E1 - Complaint Form

502.11E1 - Complaint Form

Date of complaint:

_____________________________________________________

Name of Complainant:

_____________________________________________________

Are you filling out this form for yourself or someone else (please identify the individual if you are submitting on behalf of someone else):

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Who or what entity do you believe  harassed or bullied you (or someone else)?

_____________________________________________________

Date and place of alleged incident(s):

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Names of any witnesses (if any):

_____________________________________________________

Nature of harassment bullying alleged (check all that apply):

 

Age

 

Physical Attribute

 

Sex

 

Disability

 

Physical/Mental Ability

 

Sexual Orientation

 

Familial Status

 

Political Belief

 

Socio-economic Background

 

Gender Identity

 

Political Party Preference

 

Other – Please Specify:

 

Marital Status

 

Race/Color

 

 

 

National Origin/Ethnic Background/Ancestry

 

Religion/Creed

 

 

In the space below, please describe what happened and why you believe that you or someone else has been  harassed or bullied. Please be as specific as possible and attach additional pages if necessary.

_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

Signature: _____________________________________            Date:  __________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:27

502.11E2 - Witness Disclosure Form

502.11E2 - Witness Disclosure Form

Name of Witness:

_____________________________________________________

Date of interview:

_____________________________________________________

Date of initial complaint:

_____________________________________________________

Name of Complainant: 

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Date and place of alleged incident(s):

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Nature of harassment or bullying alleged (check all that apply):

 

Age

 

Physical Attribute

 

Sex

 

Disability

 

Physical/Mental Ability

 

Sexual Orientation

 

Familial Status

 

Political Belief

 

Socio-economic Background

 

Gender Identity

 

Political Party Preference

 

Other – Please Specify:

 

Marital Status

 

Race/Color

 

 

 

National Origin/Ethnic Background/Ancestry

 

Religion/Creed

 

 

Description of incident witnessed: _________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Additional information: _________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

Signature: _____________________________________            Date:  __________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:25

502.11E3 - Disposition of Complaint Form

502.11E3 - Disposition of Complaint Form

Date:

_____________________________________________________

Date of initial complaint:

_____________________________________________________

Name of Complainant: 

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Date and place of alleged incident(s):

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Name of Respondent (include whether the Respondent is a student or employee):

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

Nature of harassment or bullying alleged (check all that apply):

 

Age

 

Physical Attribute

 

Sex

 

Disability

 

Physical/Mental Ability

 

Sexual Orientation

 

Familial Status

 

Political Belief

 

Socio-economic Background

 

Gender Identity

 

Political Party Preference

 

Other – Please Specify:

 

Marital Status

 

Race/Color

 

 

 

National Origin/Ethnic Background/Ancestry

 

Religion/Creed

 

 

Summary of Investigation: _______________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

Signature: _____________________________________            Date:  __________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:23

502.11R1 - Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Investigation Procedures

502.11R1 - Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Investigation Procedures

 

 

502.11R1 

ANTI-BULLYING/HARASSMENT POLICY – INVESTIGATION PROCEDURES 

Filing a Complaint 

A student who believes they have been bullied and/or harassed may file a complaint with the superintendent or superintendent’s designee. The complaint form is available The complaint form is available through the building offices or on the school website under Board Policies (https://ruthven.iowaschoolfinance.com/policy/50211e1-complaint-form). An alternate will be designated in the event it is claimed that the superintendent or superintendent’s designee committed the alleged bullying and/or harassment or some other conflict of interest exists. Complaints shall be filed within 180 days of the event giving rise to the complaint or from the date the Complainant could reasonably become aware of such occurrence. The Complainant will state the nature of the complaint and the remedy requested. The Complainant shall receive assistance as needed. 

Investigation 

The school district will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of bullying or harassment. The superintendent or the superintendent’s designee (hereinafter Investigator) will be responsible for handling all complaints alleging bullying or harassment. 

The investigation may include, but is not limited to the following: 

Interviews with the Complainant and the individual named in the complaint (Respondent) 

A request for the Complainant to provide a written statement regarding the nature of the complaint; A request for the Respondent to provide a written statement; 

Interviews with witnesses identified during the course of the investigation; 

A request for witnesses identified during the course of the investigation to provide a written statement; and Review and collection of documentation or information deemed relevant to the investigation. 

The Investigator shall consider the totality of circumstances presented in determining whether conduct objectively constitutes bullying or harassment as defined in board policy. Upon completion of the investigation, the Investigator shall issue a report with respect to the findings and provide a copy of the report to the appropriate building principal or superintendent if the investigation involved the building principal. 

The complaint and identity of the Complainant, Respondent or witnesses will only be disclosed as reasonably necessary in connection with the investigation or as required by law or policy. Similarly, evidence uncovered in the investigation shall be kept confidential to the extent reasonably possible. 

Decision 

The investigator, building principal or superintendent, depending on the individuals involved, shall inform the Complainant and the Respondent about the outcome of the investigation. If, after an investigation, a student is found to be in violation of the policy, the student shall be disciplined by appropriate measures, which may include suspension and expulsion. If after an investigation a school district employee is found to be in violation of this policy, the employee shall be disciplined by appropriate measures, which may include termination. If after an investigation a school district volunteer is found to be in violation of this policy, the volunteer shall be subject to appropriate measures, which may include exclusion from school grounds. 

Individuals who knowingly file false bullying and/or harassment complaints and any person who gives false statements in an investigation may be subject to discipline by appropriate measures, as shall any person who is found to have retaliated against another in violation of this policy. Any student found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject 

to measures up to, and including, suspension and expulsion. Any school district employee found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, termination of employment. Any school district volunteer found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, exclusion from school grounds. 

Approved: 4-10-23 Reviewed: Revised: 11-15-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:22

503 - Student Discipline

503 - Student Discipline dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:58

503.1 - Student Conduct

503.1 - Student Conduct

Code No. 503.1

 

STUDENT CONDUCT

 

The board believes inappropriate student conduct causes material and substantial disruption to the school district environment, interferes with the rights of others or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, and visitors on school district 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 district or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school district activities; and while away from school district 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 district 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.

 

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.

 

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

 

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

 

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.

 

This policy is not intended to address the use of therapeutic classrooms or seclusion rooms for students. 

 

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

 

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

 

 

Approved:  1-13-03 Reviewed:  11-10-03, 11-13-06 Revised:  12-12-16           

2-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15 7-10-17, 4-10-23, 12-20-23

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:14

503.1R1 - Student Suspension

503.1R1 - Student Suspension

Code No.  503.1R1

 

STUDENT SUSPENSION

 

Administration Action

 

A. Probation

 

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

 

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

 

B. In-School Suspension

 

1. In-school suspensions may be imposed by the principal for infractions of school district rules which are serious but which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school.

 

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

 

C. Out-of-School Suspension

 

1. Out-of-school suspension is to be used when other available school district resources are unable to constructively remedy student misconduct.

 

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

 

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

b. The opportunity to respond to those charges.

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

D. Suspensions and Special Education Students

 

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

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

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:16

503.2 - Expulsion

503.2 - Expulsion

503.2

EXPULSION

Only the board may remove a student from the school environment for more than ten (10) consecutive school days.

Students may be expelled for violations of board policy, school district 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 fact 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 committed 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.

Approved: Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, Revised:  07-01-92, 4-10-23,

11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 12-20-23

7-13-15

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:12

503.3 - Fines - Fees - Charges

503.3 - Fines - Fees - Charges

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

The school board will approve 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.

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  12-08-97, 01-01-01, 1-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 11-12-12, 7-13-15
Revised:  08-12-96, 4-10-23 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:09

503.3E1 - Standard Fee Waiver Application

503.3E1 - Standard Fee Waiver Application

Date: ________________                                          School Year: ________________________

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

Name of Student: ___________________________________  Grade in School: _____________

Attendance Center/School:                                                    

Name of parent, guardian or legal/actual custodian: _____________________________________

Please check type of waiver desired:

Full Waiver _____      Partial Waiver _____   Temporary Waiver _____

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

Full Waiver

            _____ Free meals offered under the Child Nutrition Program

            _____ The Family Investment Program (FIP)

_____  Transportation assistance under open enrollment

_____  Foster care

Partial Waiver

_____ Reduced priced meals offered under the Children Nutrition Program

Temporary Waiver

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

________________________________________________________________________________

Signature of parent/guardian or legal/actual custodian:  ___________________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:14

503.3R1 - Student Fee Waiver and Reduction Procedures

503.3R1 - Student Fee Waiver and Reduction Procedures

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

A         Waivers-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Students whose families meet the income guidelines for free and reduced price lunch, the Family Investment Program (FIP)

transportation assistance under open enrollment or who are in foster care are eligible to have their student fees waived or partially waived. Students whose families are experiencing a temporary financial difficulty may be eligible for a temporary waiver of student fees. Parents or students who believe they may qualify for temporary financial hardship should contact the secretary at registration time for a waiver form. This waiver does not carry over from year to year and must be completed annually.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:10

503.4 - Good Conduct Rule

503.4 - Good Conduct Rule

Participation in school district activities is a privilege.  School district 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 the school district or at the school district.  Students who wish to have the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities must conduct themselves in accordance with board policy and must refrain from activities which are illegal, immoral or unhealthy.

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

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

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  December 1999, 11-10-2003, 
11-13-2006, 2-10-2010, 7-13-15                   
Revised:  11-13-2000, 04-11-13, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:08

503.5 - Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint and Prone Restraint

503.5 - Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint and Prone Restraint

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

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

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

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

                  --        For the purposes of self-defense or defense of others as provided for in Iowa law.

                  --        For the protection of property as provided for in Iowa law.

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

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

                  --        To protect the safety of others.

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

 

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

Prone restraint means any restraint in which the student is held face down on the floor. 

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, including mental and psychological injury;

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

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

 

 

Approved:                    
Reviewed:  1-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 2-10-10, 7-13-15     
Revised:  11-13-00, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:58

503.6 - Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students

503.6 - Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students

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

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

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

Physical restraint or seclusion is reasonable or necessary only:

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

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

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

 

 

Approved:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:00

503.6E1 - Physical Restraint or Physical Confinement Documentation

503.6E1 - Physical Restraint or Physical Confinement Documentation

Student name:

Date of occurrence:

Start time of occurrence:

End time of occurrence:

Start time of use of physical restraint or seclusion:

End time of use of physical restraint or seclusion:

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

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

Describe student actions before, during and after occurrence:

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

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

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

Administrator approving:

Time approved:

Reasons for length of incident:

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

Administrator approving:

Time approved:

Reasons for length of incident

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

 

Parent/Guardian notification:

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

Employee attempting notification:

Parent/Guardian contacted:

Time and manner of attempted notification:

Was notification successful?

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

Describe injuries sustained or property damaged by students or employees:

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

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

 

__________________________________________________________________
Employee

Date of form delivered to Parent/Guardian_______________________________

Method of Transmittal                                                                                              

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:05

503.6E2 - Debriefing Letter to Guardian of Student Involved in an Occurrence Where Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion was Used

503.6E2 - Debriefing Letter to Guardian of Student Involved in an Occurrence Where Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion was Used

Dear [Guardian],

Recently, your student [name]  was involved in an occurrence at school that required the physical restraint and/or seclusion of your student as defined by Iowa law.  A report related to this occurrence is enclosed with this letter.   The law requires debriefing meetings be held for such occurrences in the following circumstances:

            Following the first instance of seclusion or physical restraint during a school year;

            When any personal injury occurs as a part of the use of seclusion or physical   restraint;

            When a reasonable educator would determine a debriefing session is necessary;

            When suggested by a student’s IEP team;

            When agreed to by the guardian and school officials; and

            After seven instances of seclusion or physical restraint of the student.

This letter is intended to inform you that a debriefing meeting will be held on [date within 5 days of transmission of letter, time, place]  because of [reason from bulleted list above].  The following employees will be in attendance at this meeting:  [list names and titles of employees].  We are inviting you to attend this debriefing meeting to engage with us on topics related to this occurrence.   If you would like to reschedule the debriefing meeting, please contact me as soon as possible via email [email address] or telephone [telephone number], and at least one school day prior to the date and time listed for this debriefing meeting.  Your student is allowed to attend this meeting with your consent and you are welcome to bring a representative of your choosing if you wish.  If you plan to bring a representative to this meeting, please let us know at least one school day prior to the meeting so that we have an opportunity to make arrangements.  We look forward to working with you to foster the continued health, safety and educational growth of your student.

 

Administrator name, Title

Date

 

Enclosure:  Report related to student occurrence

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:06

503.6E3 - Debriefing Meeting Document

503.6E3 - Debriefing Meeting Document

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

Student name:

Date of occurrence:

Date of debriefing meeting:

Time of debriefing meeting:

Location of debriefing meeting:

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

Job title of employee and/or relation to student:

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

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

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

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

Plans for additional follow up actions, if any:

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

__________________________________________________________________
Employee

Date of delivered to Parent/Guardian______________________________

Method of Transmittal                                                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:07

503.6R1 - Use of Physical Restraint and Seclusion with Students

503.6R1 - Use of Physical Restraint and Seclusion with Students

The school district will comply with Iowa law regarding the use of physical restraint and seclusion with students, including, but not limited to:

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 13:01

503.7- Student Disclosure of Identity

503.7- Student Disclosure of Identity

503.7

STUDENT DISCLOSURE OF IDENTITY

 

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

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

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

Approved :  12-20-23 Reviewed:  Revised: 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 12/21/2023 - 13:28

503.7E1 Report of Student Disclosure of Identity

503.7E1 Report of Student Disclosure of Identity

REPORT OF STUDENT DISCLOSURE OF IDENTITY

 

Dear (Parent/Guardian) _________________,

 

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

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

_________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________

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

_________________________________________________________________________.  

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

 

Sincerely,

 

Administrator

Date

 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 12/21/2023 - 13:30

503.7E2 Request to Update Student Identity

503.7E2 Request to Update Student Identity

REQUEST TO UPDATE STUDENT IDENTITY

 

_____________________________________________________ _______________

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

 

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

 

_________________________________________________________________________________

(Names)

 

_________________________________________________________________________________

(Pronouns)

 

_________________________________________________________________________________

(Gender identities)

 

_________________________________________ ___________

Parent/Guardian Date

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 12/21/2023 - 13:32

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

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

Code No.  503.8

DISCIPLINE OF STUDENTS WHO MAKE THREATS OF VIOLENCE OR CAUSE INCIDENTS OF VIOLENCE

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

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

Consequences for the misconduct will be fair and tailored to the age, grade level and maturity of the student. The circumstances of a particular situation may dictate the use of responses not specifically included in the list of escalating responses included in this policy and is at the discretion of the principal or lead administrator. Discipline and other responses to threats or incidents of violence by a student with a disability, including removal from a class, placement in a therapeutic classroom, suspensions, and expulsions, will comply with the provisions of applicable federal and state laws including, but not limited to, the IDEA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604), sec. 7, new section 279.79, subsection 3).

Reporting a Threat of Violence or Incidence of Violence 

In the case of any threat of violence or incident of violence that results in injury, property damage or assault by a student, the teacher will report to the school principal or lead administrator within 24 hours of the incident. 

The principal or lead administrator will notify the parent or guardian of the student(s) who threatened or perpetrated an act of violence and the student(s) who the threatened or perpetrated act of violence was made against within 24 hours after receipt of the teacher’s report and complete an investigation of the incident as soon as possible. The classroom teacher may also notify the parent or guardian of the student who made the threat or caused the incident, and the parent or guardian of the student against whom the threat or incident was directed (2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604), sec. 4). 

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

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

Threat of Violence 

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

Incident of Violence 

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

Injury 

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

Property Damage 

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

Assault 

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

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

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

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

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

Escalating Responses by Grade Band 

Grades PK-2 

Level 1

  • Requires parent or guardian notification

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses may include any of the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate and with written parent consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention; and/or

    • Temporary removal from class.

  • Unless the first offense is unusually serious, the administrator will avoid permanent removal from a class.

Level 2

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.

  • Review of response to prior offense, if applicable, to inform increased level of response.

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses to the incident may include the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate, with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from extracurricular activities;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from class;

    • In-school suspension;

    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle; and/or

    • Placement in an alternative learning environment, including a therapeutic classroom, when appropriate. 

Level 3

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.

  • Review of response to prior offense, if applicable, to inform increased level of response.

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses to the incident may include the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate, with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from extracurricular activities;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from class;

    • In-school suspension;

    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle; and/or

    • Placement in an alternative learning environment, including a therapeutic classroom, when appropriate.

    • Recommendation for expulsion.

Grades 3-5

Level 1

  • Requires parent or guardian notification

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses may include any of the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate and with written parent consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention; and/or

    • Temporary removal from class.

  • Unless the first offense is unusually serious, the administrator will avoid permanent removal from a class.

Level 2

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.

  • Review of response to prior offense, if applicable, to inform increased level of response.

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses to the incident may include the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate, with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from extracurricular activities;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from class;

    • In-school suspension;

    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle; and/or

    • Placement in an alternative learning environment, including a therapeutic classroom, when appropriate. 

Level 3

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.

  • Review of response to prior offense, if applicable, to inform increased level of response.

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses to the incident may include the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate, with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from extracurricular activities;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from class;

    • In-school suspension;

    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle; and/or

    • Placement in an alternative learning environment, including a therapeutic classroom, when appropriate.

    • Recommendation for expulsion.

Grades 6-8

Level 1

  • Requires parent or guardian notification

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses may include any of the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate and with written parent consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention; and/or

    • Temporary removal from class.

Level 2

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.

  • Review of response to prior offense, if applicable, to inform increased level of response.

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses to the incident may include the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate, with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from extracurricular activities;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from class;

    • In-school suspension;

    • Out-of-school suspension;

    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle; and/or

    • Placement in an alternative learning environment, including a therapeutic classroom, when appropriate. 

Level 3

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.

  • Review of response to prior offense, if applicable, to inform increased level of response.

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses to the incident may include the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate, with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from extracurricular activities;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from class;

    • In-school suspension;

    • Out-of-school suspension;

    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle;

    • Placement in an alternative learning environment, including a therapeutic classroom, when appropriate; and/or

    • Recommendation for expulsion.

Grades 9-12

Level 1

  • Requires parent or guardian notification

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses may include any of the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate and with written parent consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention;

    • Temporary removal from extracurricular activities;

    • Temporary removal from class;

    • In-school suspension; and/or

    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle.

Level 2

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.

  • Review of response to prior offense, if applicable, to inform increased level of response.

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses to the incident may include the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate, with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from extracurricular activities;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from class;

    • In-school suspension;

    • Out-of-school suspension;

    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle; and/or

    • Placement in an alternative learning environment, including a therapeutic classroom, when appropriate. 

Level 3

  • Requires parent or guardian notification.

  • Review of response to prior offense, if applicable, to inform increased level of response.

  • Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.

  • Responses to the incident may include the following:

    • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;

    • When appropriate, with written parent/guardian consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;

    • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);

    • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);

    • Detention;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from extracurricular activities;

    • Temporary or permanent removal from class;

    • In-school suspension;

    • Out-of-school suspension;

    • Suspension of transportation privileges, if misconduct occurred in a school vehicle;

    • Placement in an alternative learning environment, including a therapeutic classroom, when appropriate; and/or

    • Recommendation for expulsion.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Approved    10-18-2023                 Reviewed                    Revised    

awoods@gt.rati… Wed, 10/25/2023 - 09:33

503.8R1Student Threats of Violence and Incidents of Violence Regulation

503.8R1Student Threats of Violence and Incidents of Violence Regulation

503.8R1

STUDENT THREATS OF VIOLENCE AND INCIDENTS OF VIOLENCE REGULATION

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

 

Incident Levels Defined

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

 

Level 1 Defined:

Low reasonable likeliness of action at this threat level.  

This includes indicators demonstrating a low level or lack of intent.

This includes indicators demonstrating a low level or lack of capacity.

Low results due to action at this incident level.  

This includes indicators demonstrating a low level or lack of intent.

This includes indicators demonstrating a low level or lack of injury.

Level 2 Defined:

Potential reasonable likeliness of action at this threat level.  

This includes indicators demonstrating valid and credible levels of intent and capacity.  

This includes indicators demonstrating significant levels of intent or capacity.

Significant results due to action at this incident level.  

This includes indicators demonstrating valid and credible levels of intent and injury.  

This includes indicators demonstrating significant levels of intent or injury.

Level 3 Defined:

High reasonable likeliness of action at this threat level.  

This includes indicators demonstrating significant levels of intent and capacity.  

This includes indicators demonstrating high levels of intent or capacity.

Serious results due to action at this incident level.  

This includes indicators demonstrating significant levels of intent and injury.  

This includes indicators demonstrating high levels of intent or injury.

 

 

Timeframe for Determining Repeated Incidents

The District will consider all incidents occurring within the school year (or a 6 month period when spanning two academic years) as sufficiently close in proximity between incidents to establish that a repeated incident has occurred. The rationale for establishing this timeframe is the continuity of the academic year as well as consideration of on-going issues which may occur near the end of the preceding academic year. The administration will have discretion to alter this timeframe when appropriate under the circumstances, depending on the nature of the incident as well as the age, grade level and maturity of the student.

 

Considerations for Determining the Maturity of the Student

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

  • Chronological age of the student

  • Assessment of the student’s interpersonal skills.

  • Assessment of the student’s academic responsibility.

  • Assessment of the student’s ability to communicate issues and needs.

  • Assessment of the student’s emotional responses.

 

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

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

  • The specificity of the threat for time, location or individual(s) targeted

  • The reasonable likelihood of the student’s ability to carry out the threat

  • The reasonable likelihood that the threat will interfere with the operation of the educational environment

 

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

Approved :  1-17-24 Reviewed:  Revised: 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 01/18/2024 - 15:21

503.9 Student Use of Personal Electronic Devices

503.9 Student Use of Personal Electronic Devices

In order to promote the best educational experience, students should feel connected to their educational environment and to others in the school community. Building meaningful connections can occur in a variety of ways. Technology has advanced peoples' ability to connect with one another across a variety of virtual platforms, and when used appropriately, adds value to the learning environment. However, it is vital to the developmental health and growth of students that the district provides opportunities for students to connect with peers and other members of their school community in-person whenever possible. In-person learning and interactions teach vital life and social skills that students will need for their continued success in the community. 

For this reason, student use of personal electronic devices during instructional time may be prohibited or limited. Students have access to district-owned electronic devices as appropriate for the instructional needs of the learning environment and authorized by the classroom teacher. Personal electronic devices means any device that is capable of electronically communicating, sending, receiving, storing, recording, reproducing and/or displaying information and data. Students may wear smart or electronic watches but may be restricted on the use of any communication applications or features that are prohibited from use on other electronic devices and all notifications must be turned off. Personal electronic devices that have been specifically authorized under a current individual education plan (IEP), a Section 504 plan, or an Individual Health Plan (IHP) are exempt from this policy. For purposes of this policy, instructional time is defined as the time from the beginning of class bell through the end of class bell, and includes all lunch and recess periods. 

Students who choose to use personal electronic devices outside instructional time but while on school property, at school-sponsored events, or in a manner that may impact the educational environment must use these devices in accordance with all applicable laws and board policies. Students who violate this policy may face disciplinary consequences. The Superintendent, in conjunction with building level administration, will develop administrative regulations in accordance with this policy.

Approved:  9-18-24 Reviewed: Revised: 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 09/19/2024 - 08:25

503.9R1 Student Use of Personal Electronic Devices

503.9R1 Student Use of Personal Electronic Devices

The district is committed to providing an inclusive educational environment for students and families. It is valuable for students' educational experience for families to engage in and support their students' educational experience. As part of this commitment, the district will take steps to create opportunities for students to engage in peer-to-peer activities, and ensure that student use of personal electronic devices is properly limited during instructional time. 

Every district staff member is empowered to assist in the enforcement of this policy and regulation as appropriate. To avoid distraction during instructional time, personal electronic devices are to be silenced or turned off and not visible. Students may store their personal electronic devices in their backpacks, unless otherwise instructed. Staff members may establish classroom rules or protocols for placement of personal electronic devices during instructional times consistent with this regulation. If a student is observed improperly using a personal electronic device during instructional time, the employee who observed the student behavior may notify building administration, who may require the student to turn in the device for safekeeping until the end of the school day. The device will be secured in the building's front office. The district, however, is not responsible for the loss, theft, or destruction of personal electronic devices brought onto school, or district property, or while the student is attending district or school-sponsored events. 

For a student's first violation of this policy, the student may pick up the device at the end of the school day and the student's parent/guardian will be notified. For subsequent violations of this policy, the device will be released to the student's parent/guardian following a meeting with the student and the student's parent/guardian to create a plan to avoid further violations. If a student in violation of this policy refuses to turn over their device, they may be sent home for the remainder of the school day.  Repeated violations of this policy may result in additional disciplinary consequences for students in accordance with board policy.

 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 09/19/2024 - 08:24

504 - Student Activities

504 - Student Activities dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:51

504.1 - Student Government

504.1 - Student Government

The student council provides for student activities, serves as a training experience for student leaders, promotes the common good, gives students a share in the management of the school district, develops high ideals of personal conduct, acts as a clearing house 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.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-03, 1-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23                                                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:56

504.2 - Student Organizations

504.2 - Student Organizations

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

Non-instructional time shall 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 shall not interfere with the orderly conduct of the education program or other school district operations. It shall be within the discretion of the principal to determine whether the meetings will interfere with the orderly conduct of the education program or other school district operations. Activities relating to and part of the education program shall have priority over the activities of another organization.

Curriculum-Related Organizations

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

  • Is the subject matter of the group actually taught in a regularly offered course?
  • Will the subject matter of the group soon be taught in a regularly offered course?
  • Does the subject matter of the group concern the body of courses as a whole?
  • Is participation in the group required for a particular course?
  • Does participation in the group result in academic credit?

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

Non-Curriculum Related Organizations

Student initiated, non-curriculum related organizations shall be provided access to meeting space and school district facilities.

Only students may attend and participate in meetings of non-curriculum-related groups.  Such attendance shall be 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 shall not participate in the meeting or assist in planning, criticizing or encouraging attendance.    Only students may be involved in and attend the non-curriculum group’s meetings.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 01-13-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:53

504.3 - Student Performances

504.3 - Student Performances

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

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

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 will take action.

Performances by student groups below the senior high school level should be allowed only 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.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-9                   
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:53

504.4 - Student Fund-raising

504.4 - Student Fund-raising

Students may raise funds for school district-sponsored events with permission of the board.  The board may delegate to the superintendent the authority to approve routine student fundraising as deemed appropriate.  Fund raising by students for events other than school district-sponsored events is not allowed.  Collection boxes for school district fund raising must have prior approval from the board or its designee before being placed on school district property.

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

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:51

504.5 - Student Activity Program

504.5 - Student Activity Program

Participation in school district activities is a privilege.  School district 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 district 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 district 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 district sponsored athletics may participate in a non-school district sponsored sport during the same season with written approval of the high school principal.  Such outside participation shall not conflict with the school district sponsored athletic activity.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative procedures for each school district activity.  These procedures 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 district activities must meet the requirements set out by the school district for participation in the activity.

 

 

Approved: 11-12-97             
Reviewed:  01-08-01, 11-10-03, 11-13-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:55

505 - Student Scholastic Achievement

505 - Student Scholastic Achievement dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:32

505.1 - Student Progress Reports and Conferences

505.1 - Student Progress Reports and Conferences

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

Parent-teacher conferences will be held at least once a year to keep the parents informed.

Parents of children in grades kindergarten through grade 3 will be informed of their individual child's performance on diagnostic assessments at least biannually.

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

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  1-8-01, 12-8-03, 12-1-06, 2-10-10, 1-15-13, 7-13-15, 7-8-19
Revised:  7-9-01, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:48

505.2 - Student Promotion - Retention - Acceleration

505.2 - Student Promotion - Retention - Acceleration

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

The school district shall adhere to the following: 

 

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

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

Any student or parent who is not satisfied with the decision of the district’s professional staff may seek recourse through board policy.

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 01-08-01, 12-08-03, 12-11-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15, 7-8-19
Revised:  12-14-15, 9-20-17, 4-10-23, 8-21-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:46

505.3 - Student Honors and Awards

505.3 - Student Honors and Awards

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.

 

 

Approved:  5-9-95     
Reviewed:  1-8-01, 12-8-03, 12-11-06, 2-10-10, 1-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:47

505.4 - Testing Program

505.4 - Testing Program

Code No.  505.4

 

TESTING PROGRAM

 

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Approved 1/13/03

Reviewed 12/8/03, 2/11/06, 2/10/10, 1/15/13, 7/13/15

Revised 12/12/16, 7-10-17, 4-10-23

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:44

505.5 - Graduation Requirements

505.5 - Graduation Requirements

 

 

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

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

It is the responsibility of the principal to 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:

English/Language Arts 8  credits

Science 6  credits

Mathematics 6  credits

Social Studies 6 credits

Includes US Govt 2 credits

Includes AM Hist 2 credits

Health 2 credits

Workplace Readiness 1 credit

Physical Education 2 credits

STEM electives 4 credits

Humanities electives 4 credits

Successful completion of Titan’s J.A.M (Journey of Academic Mastery) Portfolio is a non-credit graduation requirement.

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

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

Students who complete a regular session in the Legislative Page Program of the general assembly at the state capitol will be credited 1/2 credit of social studies.

Students enrolled in a junior officers’ training corp will be credited1/8th physical education credit for each semester the student is enrolled in the program.

Approved:

Reviewed:  1-8-01, 12-08-03, 12-11-06,

Revised:  June 07, 03-09-09

1-15-13,4-10-23, 1-17-24

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:41

505.6 - Early Graduation

505.6 - 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.  In such cases, the student must have the approval of the board and a recommendation by the superintendent and the principal.

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

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 12-08-03, 12-11-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:40

505.7 - Commencement

505.7 - Commencement

Students, who have met the requirements for graduation will be allowed to participate in the commencement proceedings provided they abide by the proceedings organized by the school district.  It 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 reason for withholding the student's final progress report or diploma certifying the student's completion of high school.

 

 

Approved:  01-08-90              
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 12-08-03, 12-00-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  07-01-92, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:39

505.8 - Parent and Family Engagement

505.8 - Parent and Family Engagement

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

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

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

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

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

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

(6)    Involve parents and families in Title I activities in funding.

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

 

 

Approved:  1/13/03                    
Reviewed: 12/8/03, 12/11/06, 2/10/10, 1/15/13, 7/13/15
Revised: 12/12/16 , 7-10-17, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:34

505.8R1 - Parent and Family Engagement Regulation

505.8R1 - Parent and Family Engagement Regulation

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

1. Policy Involvement:  The school district will host an annual meeting and invite all parents to attend; and inform parents of their rights and the school district’s requirements under Title I.  This meeting will also invite parents to become involved in the planning, review and improvement of a building policy and in developing the school district plan.  The school district will inform parents of: 

  • programs under this policy,
  • curriculum and assessment used for students,
  • the opportunity to meet with administration to participate in decisions related to their children’s education,
  • a description and explanation of curriculum used in the school forms of academic assessment used to measure student progress, and
  • achievement levels of the challenging State academic standards. 

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

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

 4. Building Capacity for Involvement: Each school within the school district will include in their plan ways to achieve the following:

  • Assist parents and families to understand topics including academic standards and assessments and how to monitor student progress;
  • Provide materials and training to help parents work with students to improve achievement;
  • Educate teachers and staff in how to communicate with parents and build ties to foster academic success;
  • Coordinate and integrate other federal, state, and local programs to support parents in more fully participating in students’ education;
  • Ensure information related to programs is sent to parents and families in understandable formats; and
  • Provide other reasonable support to encourage parental involvement

5. School Districts Operating a Schoolwide Program:  Each school district operating a schoolwide program under this policy shall:

  • Involve parents on a timely and ongoing basis in the planning, review and improvement of programs, including the parent and family engagement school district policy drafting and review, and the joint development of the school district wide program. 
  • If the schoolwide program plan is not satisfactory to the parents of the participating children, parent comments will be requested and submitted with the plan to the school district.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:36

506 - Student Records

506 - Student Records dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:57

506.1 - Education Records Access

506.1 - Education Records Access

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

Definitions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The school district will 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 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.  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 a reasonable time following receipt 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 that they have the right to:

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

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

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

 

 

Approved:  1-3-03                  
Reviewed:  12-8-03, 12-11-06, 2-10-10, 1-15-13, 7-13-15,
Revised:  3-9-09, 11-13-17, 4-10-23  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:10

506.1E1 - Request of Nonparent for Examination or Copies of Student Records

506.1E1 - Request of Nonparent for Examination or Copies of Student Records

The undersigned hereby requests permission to examine the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District’s official education records of:

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Legal Name of Student)

 

 

(Date of Birth)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The undersigned certifies that they are (check one):

 

 

(a)

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

(  )

 

(b)

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

(  )

 

(c)

An authorized representative of the Secretary of

The United States Department of Education or United States Attorney General

 

(  )

 

 

 

(d)

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

 

(  )

 

(e)

A person connected with the student's application for, or receipt of, financial aid.

(  )

 

 

(f)

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

(  )

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Signature)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Title)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Agency)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

APPROVED:

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address:

 

 

 

Signature:

 

 

City:

 

 

 

Title:

 

 

State:

 

ZIP:

 

 

Dated:

 

 

Phone Number:

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:30

506.1E2 - Authorization for Release of Education Records

506.1E2 - Authorization for Release of Education Records

The undersigned hereby authorizes

 

School district to release copies of the following official education records:

 

 

concerning

 

 

(Full Legal Name of Student)

 

(Name of Last School Attended)

The reason for this request is:

 

 

My relationship to the child is:

 

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

 

(  )  the undersigned

 

(  )  the student

 

(  )  other (please specify)

 

 

 

 

(Signature)

 

 

Date:

 

 

Address:

 

 

City:

 

 

State:

 

ZIP

 

Phone Number:

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:28

506.1E3 - Request for Hearing on Correction of Education Records

506.1E3 - Request for Hearing on Correction of Education Records

 

Address:

 

 

Board Secretary (Custodian)

 

 

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My relationship to the child is:

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Signature)

 

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

Address:

 

 

 

 

City:

 

 

 

 

State:

 

ZIP

 

 

 

Phone Number:

 

 

 

                               

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:25

506.1E4 - Request for Examination of Education Records

506.1E4 - Request for Examination of Education Records

 

 

 

Board Secretary (Custodian)

The undersigned desires to examine the following official education records.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Full Legal Name of Student)

 

 

 

(Name of School)

My relationship to the student is:

(check one)

 

 

I do

 

 

I do not

 

 

 

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

APPROVED:

Signature:

 

Title:

 

 

Dated:

 

 

           

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:21

506.1E5 - Notification of Transfer of Student Records

506.1E5 - Notification of Transfer of Student Records

To:

 

 

 

Date:

 

 

Parent/or Guardian

 

 

 

 

 

Street Address:

 

 

 

 

 

City/State

 

 

ZIP:

 

                   

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

 

 

 

 

School District Name

 

 

Address

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

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Name)

 

 

 

 

 

(Title)

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:19

506.1E6 - Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of a Subpoena

506.1E6 - Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of a Subpoena

Date

 

Dear     (Parent)    :

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

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

 

Sincerely,

 

 

(Principal or Superintendent)

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:19

506.1E7 - Juvenile Justice Agency Information Sharing Agreement

506.1E7 - Juvenile Justice Agency Information Sharing Agreement

Statement of Purpose:  The purpose of this Agreement is to allow for the sharing of information among the School District and the Agencies prior to a student's adjudication in order to promote and collaborate 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.

Identification of Agencies:  This agreement is between the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District (hereinafter "School District") and   (agencies listed) (hereinafter "Agencies")   .

Statutory Authority:  This agreement implements Iowa Code § 280.25 and is consistent with 34 C.F.R. 99.38.

Parameters of Information Exchange:

        1.       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.

        2.       Prior to adjudication information contained in the permanent record may be disclosed by the School District to the Agencies without parental consent or court order.

        3.       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.

        4.       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.

        5.       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.

        6.       Information obtained by the School District from other juvenile justice agencies may not be used as the basis for disciplinary action of the student.

        7.       This Agreement only governs the School District's ability to share information and the purposes for which that information can be used.  Other agencies are bound by their own respective confidentiality policies.

Records Transmission:  The individual requesting the information should contact the principal of the building in which the student is currently enrolled or was enrolled.  The principal will forward the records within a reasonable time following receipt of the request.

Confidentiality:  Confidential information shared between the Agencies and the School District 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.  Agencies or individuals violating the terms of this agreement subject their entity represented and themselves personally to legal action pursuant to federal and state law. 

Amendments:  This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement among the agencies with respect to information sharing.  Agencies may be added to this agreement at the discretion of the school district.

Term:  This agreement is effective from    date  .

Termination:  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 this Agreement.

 

APPROVED:

 

Signature:

 

Address:

 

 

Title:

 

City:

 

 

Agency:

 

State:

 

ZIP

 

Dated:

 

Phone Number:

 

 

 

Signature:

 

Address:

 

 

Title:

 

City:

 

 

Agency:

 

State:

 

ZIP

 

Dated:

 

Phone Number:

 

 

 

Signature:

 

Address:

 

 

Title:

 

City:

 

 

Agency:

 

State:

 

ZIP

 

Dated:

 

Phone Number:

 

 

 

Signature:

 

Address:

 

 

Title:

 

City:

 

 

Agency:

 

State:

 

ZIP

 

Dated:

 

Phone Number:

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:16

506.1E8 - Annual Notice

506.1E8 - Annual Notice

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (eligible students) certain rights with respect to the student's education records.  They are:

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

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

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

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

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

(3)     The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

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

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

Upon request, the school district discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

(4)  The right to file a complaint with the United States Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school district to comply with the requirements of FERPA.  The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office, United States Department of Education,
400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC, 20202-4605.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:15

506.1R1 - Use of Student Records Regulation

506.1R1 - Use of Student Records Regulation

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

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

  1. Access to Records
    1. Parents, eligible students, and other individuals authorized in accordance with law will have access to the student's education records during the regular business hours of the school district. Parents and eligible students will have a right to access the student's education records upon request without unnecessary delay and in no instance more than forty-five calendar days after the request is made. An eligible student or parent, upon written request to the board secretary, shall receive an explanation and interpretation of the education records. A student, eighteen years or older, has the right to determine who, outside the school system, has access to the records.  Parents of students who are 18 years or older but still dependents for income tax purposes may access the student's records without prior permission of the student.
    2. School district officials having access to student records are defined as having a legitimate educational interest. A school district official is a person employed by the school district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the board; a person or company with whom the school district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, Area Education Agency employee, medical consultant or therapist) or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as disciplinary or grievance committee or student assistance team or assisting another school district official in performing his or her tasks. 
  2. ​​​​​​​Release of Information Outside the School – Information from education records may be disclosed to outside parties as outlined in board policy and otherwise provided by law.
  3. Procedures for Requesting a Record Amendment
    1. ​​​​​​​If the eligible student, parent or legal guardian believe the information in the education records is inaccurate, misleading or violates the privacy of the student, the parents or an eligible student may request that the school district amend the education student records. 
    2. The school district will decide whether to amend the education student records within a reasonable time after receipt of the request.
    3. If the school district determines an amendment is made to the education student records, the school district will make the amendment and inform the parents or the eligible student of the decision in writing.
    4. If the school district determines that amendment of the student's education records is not appropriate, it will inform the parents or the eligible student of their right to a hearing before the hearing officer provided by the school district. The hearing officer may be an employee of the school district, so long as the employee does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing.
    5. Upon parental request, the school district will hold a hearing regarding the content of a student’s education records which the parent believes to be inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the privacy rights of students.
    6. The hearing will be held within a reasonable time after receipt of the parent or eligible student’s request. The parent or eligible student will receive reasonable advance notice of date, time, and place of the hearing.
    7. The parents or eligible student will be given a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relevant to the issues. The parent or eligible student may be represented by an individual at their choice at their own expense.
    8. The hearing officer will render a written decision within a reasonable period after the hearing.  The decision will be based upon evidence presented at the hearing and must include a summary of the evidence and the reasons for the decision.
    9. The parents may appeal the hearing officer’s decision to the superintendent within  five days if the superintendent does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing.
    10. The parents may appeal the superintendent’s decision or the hearing officer’s decision if the superintendent was unable to hear the appeal, to the board within five days.  It is within the discretion of the board to hear the appeal.
    11. If the parents' and the eligible student's request to amend the education student records is further denied following the hearing, the parents or the eligible student are informed that they have a right to place an explanatory letter in the education student records commenting on the school district's decision or setting forth the reasoning for disagreeing with the school district. Additions to the student's education records will become a part of the education student records and be maintained like other education student records. If the school district discloses the education student records, the explanation by the parents will also be disclosed or the eligible student of the decision in writing.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:12

506.2 - Student Directory Information

506.2 - Student Directory Information

Student directory information is information contained in the education records of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. The school district may disclose directory information to third parties without consent if it has given public notice of the types of information which it has designated as directory information, the parent's or eligible student's right to restrict the disclosure of such information, and the period of time within which a parent or eligible student has to notify the school district in writing that he or she does not want any or all of those types of information designated as directory information.  The school district has designated the following as directory information:

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

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

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

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

 

 

Approved: 10-8-90
Reviewed: 12-12-94, 12-8-97, 1-8-01, 12-8-03, 12-11-06, 2-10-10, 1-15-13, 7-13-15,
Revised: 7-1-92, 11-13-17, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:04

506.2E1 - Authorization for Releasing Student Directory Information

506.2E1 - Authorization for Releasing Student Directory Information

The Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District has adopted a policy designed to assure parents and students the full implementation, protection, and enjoyment of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA).  A copy of the school district's policy is available for review in the superintendent’s Office.

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

The school district has designated the following information as directory information:

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

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

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

RETURN THIS FORM

 

Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District
Parental Directions to

Withhold Student/Directory Information for Education Purposes, for 20     - 20      school year.

Student Name:

 

 

Date of Birth

 

School:

 

 

Grade:

 

 

 

 

 

(Signature of Parent/Legal Guardian/Custodian of Student)

 

(Date)

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

Additional forms are available at your child's school.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:06

506.2R1 - Use of Directory Information

506.2R1 - Use of Directory Information

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

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

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

If you do not want the school district to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your prior written consent, you must notify the school district in writing by September 1.   The school district has designated the following information as directory information:

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:05

506.3 - Student Photographs

506.3 - Student Photographs

The board will permit student portrait photographs to be taken on school district 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 procedures regarding student photographs.

 

 

Approved: 10-8-90          
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 12-08-03, 12-11-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  07-01-92, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 12:02

506.4 - Student Library Circulation Records

506.4 - Student Library Circulation Records

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

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

 

 

Approved:  12-10-07             
Reviewed: 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15                                               
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:57

507 - Student Health and Well-Being

507 - Student Health and Well-Being dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:33

507.1 - Student Health and Immunization Certificates

507.1 - Student Health and Immunization Certificates

Students desiring to participate in athlete activities or enrolling in kindergarten or first grade in the school district shall have a physical examination by a licensed health care provider 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 licensed health care provider 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 the Iowa Department of Public Health, students entering the school district for the first time may be required to pass a TB test prior to admission. The school 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.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-8-97, 1-8-01, 12-08-03, 12-11-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  03-09-07, 4-8-13, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:56

507.2 - Administration of Medication to Students

507.2 - Administration of Medication to Students

Code No. 507.2

 

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION TO STUDENTS

 

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

 

Medication shall be administered when the student's parent or guardian (hereafter parent) provides a signed and dated written statement requesting medication administration and the medication is in the original, labeled container, either as dispensed or in the manufacturer's container. 

 

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,  airway constricting diseases, respiratory distress or students at risk of anaphylaxis who use epinephrine auto-injectors may self-administer their medication upon the written approval of the student’s parents and prescribing licensed health care professional regardless of competency.   

 

Persons administering medication shall include authorized practitioners, such as licensed registered nurses and 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 district. 

 

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 district 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. 

 

Approved  Reviewed  2-10-10, 1-15-13, Revised  9-22-04, 3-9-09

7-13-15, 12-20-23 7-11-16, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:46

507.2E1 - Authorization - Asthma or Airway Constricting Medication Self-Administration Consent Form

507.2E1 - Authorization - Asthma or Airway Constricting Medication Self-Administration Consent Form

 

 Code No. 507.2E1

 

AUTHORIZATION - ASTHMA, AIRWAY CONSTRICTING OR RESPIRATORY DISTRESS MEDICATION SELF-ADMINISTRATION CONSENT FORM

 

_____________________________           ___/___/___                 _________________ ___/___/___

Student’s Name (Last), (First)  (Middle)     Birthday                        School       Date

 

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

  • Parent/guardian provides signed, dated authorization for student medication self-administration.

  • Parent/guardian provides written statement from the student’s licensed health care professional  (A person licensed under chapter 148to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery, an advanced registered nurse practitioner under chapter 152 or 152E and registered with the board of nursing or a physician assistant licensed to practice under the supervision of a physician as authorized in chapters 147 and 148C)containing the following:

    • name and purpose of the medication, 

    • prescribed dosage, and

    • times or special circumstances under which the prescribed medication is to be administered

    • The medication is in the original, labeled container as dispensed or the manufacturer's labeled container containing the student’s name, name of the medication, directions for use, and date.

    • Authorization shall be renewed annually.  If any changes occur in the medication, dosage or time of administration, the parent is to notify school officials immediately. The authorization shall be reviewed as soon as practical.

Provided the above requirements are fulfilled, the school shall permit the self-administration of the prescribed medication by a student with asthma, respiratory distress or other airway constricting disease or the use of an epinephrine auto-injector by a student with a risk of anaphylaxis while in school, at school district sponsored activities, under the supervision of school district personnel, and before or after normal school activities, such as while in before-school or after-school care on school operated property. If the student abuses the self-administration policy, the ability to self- administer may be withdrawn by the school or discipline may be imposed, after notification is provided to the student’s parent.

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

 

AUTHORIZATION - ASTHMA, AIRWAY CONSTRICTING OR RESPIRATORY DISTRESS MEDICATION SELF-ADMINISTRATION CONSENT FORM

___________________          _____________        __________________________________           __________

Medication                                 Dosage                        Route                                                                       Time

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Purpose of Medication and Administration /Instructions

___________________________________________         ________________________

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

____________________________                                        ____________

Prescriber’s Signature                                                                 Date

____________________________                                        ________________               

Prescriber’s Address    Emergency Phone

  • I request the above-named student possess and self-administer asthma medication, bronchodilators, canisters or spacers or other airway constricting disease medication(s) and/or an epinephrine auto-injector at school and in school district activities according to the authorization and instructions. 

  • I understand the school district and its employees acting reasonably and in good faith shall incur no liability for any improper use of medication or an epinephrine auto-injector or for supervising, monitoring or interfering with a student's self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector.  I acknowledge that the school district is to incur no liability, except for gross negligence, as a result of self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector by the student.

  • I agree to coordinate and work with school district personnel and notify them when questions arise or relevant conditions change.

  • I agree to provide safe delivery of medication and equipment to and from school and to pick up remaining medication and equipment. 

  • I agree the information is shared with school district personnel in accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and any other applicable laws. 

  • I agree to provide the school with back-up medication approved in this form.

  • Student maintains self-administration record.

__________________________________                   ______________

Parent/Guardian Signature                                                  Date

(agreed to above statement)

_________________________________                     _______________

Parent/Guardian Address                                                   Home Phone

  _________________

Business Phone

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Self-Administration Authorization Additional Information

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:48

507.2E2 - Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Prescription Medication to Students

507.2E2 - Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Prescription Medication to Students

PARENTAL AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE FORM FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION TO STUDENTS

 

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

School medications and health services are administered following these guidelines:

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

                                                                                                                                             _________  
Prescribed Medication                   Dosage                         Route                           Time at School

Special Health Services and instructions, in indicated:

                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                              

________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________

 

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

                                                                                                             /           /           
Prescriber’s Signature and credentials                               Date

(when indicated for health service deliver)

                                                                                                            /            /          
Parent's Signature                                                            Date

                                                                                                                                   
Parent's Address                                                              Home Phone

                                                                                                                                   
Additional Information                                                  Business Phone

                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                               
Authorization Form

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:52

507.2E3 Parental Authorization and Release Form for Independent Self Carry and Administration of Prescribed Medication or Independent Delivery of Health Services by the Student

507.2E3 Parental Authorization and Release Form for Independent Self Carry and Administration of Prescribed Medication or Independent Delivery of Health Services by the Student

PARENTAL AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE FORM FOR INDEPENDENT SELF CARRY AND ADMINISTRATION OF PRESCRIBED MEDICATION OR INDEPENDENT DELIVERY OF HEALTH SERVICES BY THE STUDENT

____________________________________ / /   ___________________ ____/____/_____

Student's Name (Last), (First), (Middle)                        Birthday                           School                             Date

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

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

_________________________ ______________ __________________ ________________________

Prescribed Medication                       Dosage Route                                    Time at School

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

Special Health Services Delivery:

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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

___________________________ ________________

Prescriber’s Signature  Date

and credentials (when indicated for health service delivery)

____________________________ ________________

Parent/Guardian Signature                                             Date

____________________________ __________________

Parent/Guardian Address                                             Home phone

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 12/21/2023 - 13:33

507.2E4 Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Voluntary School Stock of Over-the-Counter Medication to Students

507.2E4 Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Voluntary School Stock of Over-the-Counter Medication to Students

PARENTAL AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE FORM FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF VOLUNTARY SCHOOL STOCK OF OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATION TO STUDENTS

 

________________________________ __/___/___ ___________ ___/___/___

Student's Name (Last), (First), (Middle) Birthday School Date

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

  • Acetaminophen administered per manufacturer label
  • Throat Lozenges administered per manufacturer label

  • Ibuprofen administered per manufacturer label 

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

  • Parent has provided a signed, dated annual authorization to administer the nonprescription, over-the-counter medication(s) listed according to the manufacturer instructions. Electronic signature meets the requirement of written signature.

  • The nonprescription, over-the-counter medication is in the original, labeled container and dispensed per the manufacturing label.

  • All other nonprescription, over-the-counter medication not listed will require a written parent authorization and supply for the over-the counter medication. 

  • Supplements are not nonprescription, over-the-counter medications approved by the Federal Drug Administration and are NOTapplicable. 

  • Nonprescription, over-the-counter medications approved by the Federal Drug Administration that require emergency medical service (EMS) notification after administration are NOT applicable.

  • Persons administering nonprescription, over-the-counter medication include licensed health personnel working under the auspices of the school and individuals, whom licensed health personnel have delegated the administration of medication with valid certification who have successfully completed a medication administration course approved by the department and annual medication administration procedural skills check.

    • Districts stocking the administration of a voluntary stock of nonprescription, over-the-counter medications, collaborate with licensed health personnel to develop and adopt a protocol shared with the parent to define at a minimum:

      • when to contact the parent when a nonprescription medication, over the counter medication is administered;

      • documentation of the administration of the nonprescription, over-the-counter medication and parent contact;

      • a limit to the administration of a school’s stock nonprescription, over-the-counter medications that would require a prescriber signature for further administration of a school’s nonprescription, over-the-counter medications for the remaining school year;

      • the development of an individual health plan for ongoing medication administration or health service delivery at school.

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

__________________________________________        _________________________

Parent Signature                                                                  Date

__________________________________________        ________________________

Parent/Guardian Address                                                    Home Phone

 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 12/21/2023 - 13:49

507.3 - Communicable Diseases - Students

507.3 - Communicable Diseases - Students

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 blood borne 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, school nurse, or health clerk.

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 procedures stating the procedures for dealing with the students with a communicable disease.

For more information on communicable disease charts and reporting forms, go to the Iowa Department of Public Health website.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  12-08-03, 7-13-15           
Revised:  02-18-04, 04-08-13,
4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:45

507.4 - Student Illness or Injury at School

507.4 - Student Illness or Injury at School

When a student becomes ill or is injured at school, the school district will 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 student will be turned over to the care of the student’s parents or qualified medical employees as quickly as possible.

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

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.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                             
Reviewed:  12-8-0, 12-11-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  2-18-04, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:44

507.5 - Emergency Plans and Drills

507.5 - Emergency Plans and Drills

Students will be informed of the 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 at least two per semester.

Each attendance center will develop and maintain a written plan containing emergency and disaster procedures.  The plan will be communicated to and be 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.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-8-97, 1-8-01, 12-8-03, 12-11-06, 1-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  04-08-13, 4-10-23                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:43

507.6 - Student Insurance

507.6 - Student Insurance

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

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

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  1-8-01, 12-11-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  03-13-06, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:41

507.7 - Custody and Parental Rights

507.7 - Custody and Parental Rights

Disagreements between family members are not the responsibility of the school district.      The school district will not take the side of one family member over another in a disagreement about custody and 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.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92            
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-01-010, 12-08-03, 12-11-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:42

507.8 - Student Special Health Services

507.8 - Student Special Health Services

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 procedures for the implementation of this policy.

 

 

Approved:                    
Reviewed:  01-08-01, 12-08-03, 12-11-06, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  11-13-00,4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:40

507.9 - Wellness Policy

507.9 - Wellness Policy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Approved:  6/13/06                  
Reviewed:  12/11/06, 02/10/10, 10/15/13, 
7/13/15
Revised:  12/12/16, 9-20-17, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:33

507.9R1 - Wellness Regulation

507.9R1 - Wellness Regulation

To implement the Wellness Policy, the following school district specific goals have been established:

Nutrition Education and Promotion:  The school district will provide nutrition education and engage in nutrition promotion that help students develop lifelong healthy eating behaviors. The goal(s) for addressing nutrition education and nutrition promotion include the following:

  • Provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote and protect their health;
  • Include enjoyable, developmentally-appropriate, culturally-relevant, and participatory activities, such as cooking demonstrations or lessons, promotions, taste-testing, farm visits, and school gardens;
  • Promote fruits, vegetables, whole-grain products, low-fat and fat-free dairy products, and healthy foods;
  • Emphasize caloric balance between food intake and energy expenditure (promotes physical activity/exercise);

Physical Activity: The school district will provide students and staff with age and grade appropriate opportunities to engage in physical activity that meet federal and state guidelines, including the Iowa Healthy Kids Act. The goal(s) for addressing physical activity include the following:

  • Promote the benefits of a physically active lifestyle and help students develop skills to engage in lifelong healthy habits;
  • Engage students in moderate to vigorous activity during at least 50 percent of physical education class time;
  • Encourage teachers to incorporate movement and kinesthetic learning approaches into core subject instructions when possible;
  • Offer classroom health education that complements physical education by reinforcing the knowledge and self-management skills needed to maintain a physically active lifestyle.

Other School-Based Activities that Promote Student Wellness: The school district will support student, staff, and parents’ efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle, as appropriate. The goal(s) for addressing other school district-based activities that promote student wellness include the following:

  • Promote staff health and wellness;
  • Permit students to bring and carry water bottles filled with water throughout the day;
  • Make drinking water available where school meals are served during mealtimes;
  • Strive to provide students with at least 10 minutes to eat after sitting down for breakfast and 20 minutes after sitting down for lunch;
  • Discourage students from sharing foods or beverages during meal or snack times, given concerns about allergies and dietary needs;

Public Involvement: There is a process for permitting parents, students, representatives of the school district food authority, teachers of physical education, school district health professionals, the board, administrators, and the public to participate in the development, implementation, and periodic review and update of the policy through the following:

The school district has a local wellness policy committee to advise the school district on the development, implementation, and improvement of the school district wellness policy;

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:36

508 - Miscellaneous Student-Related Matters

508 - Miscellaneous Student-Related Matters dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:37

508.1 - Class or Student Group Gifts

508.1 - Class or Student Group Gifts

The board welcomes gifts to the school district from a class or student group.  While class gifts to the school district do not require the approval of the superintendent, the board encourages students to consult with the superintendent or other licensed employees prior to selecting a gift for the school district.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-12-94, 12-08-97, 01-08-01, 12-08-03, 12-11-06, 02-10-10, 01-5-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:39

508.2 - Open Night

508.2 - Open Night

In keeping with good community relations, student school activities normally will not be scheduled on an open night designated by the board.  It shall be the responsibility of the principal to oversee the scheduling of school activities for compliance with this policy.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed: 1-08-01, 12-08-03, 12-11-06, 02-10-10, 01-15-13, 7-13-15
Revised:  2-18-04, 4-10-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 04/14/2023 - 11:37

600 - EDUCATION PROGRAMS

600 - EDUCATION PROGRAMS Jen@iowaschool… Tue, 11/23/2021 - 07:54

600 - Goals and Objectives of the Education Program

600 - Goals and Objectives of the Education Program

The goals and objectives of the school district are designed to achieve the philosophy statement of the school district.  An advisory committee of representatives of the school district community and the school district is appointed to make recommendations for the goals and objectives of the education program.

Short-term and long-term objectives for the education program are established annually by the board.  These objectives will reflect the results of the needs assessment, recommendation of the advisory committee, recommendations from the superintendent, and changes in law.

Annually, the board will report to the committee regarding progress toward the achievement of the goals and objectives of the education program

 

 

Approved:  08-13-07             
Reviewed:  12-14-09, 06-11-12, 5-8-17                       
Revised:  12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:21

601 - General Organization

601 - General Organization dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:17

601.1 - School Calendar

601.1 - School Calendar

Code No. 601.1

 

SCHOOL CALENDAR

 

The school calendar will accommodate the education program of the school district.  The school calendar is for a minimum of 180 days or 1080 hours and includes, but is not limited to, the days for student instruction, staff development, in-service days, and teacher conferences.  Each year the minimum school calendar may include up to 5 days or 30 hours of instruction delivered primarily over the internet.

The academic school year for students shall begin no sooner than August 23.  Employees may be required to report to work at the school district prior to this date.

Special education students may attend school on a school calendar different from that of the regular education program consistent with their Individualized Education Program.

The board, in its discretion, may excuse graduating seniors from up to five days or 30 hours of instruction after the school district requirements for graduation have been met.  The board may also excuse graduating seniors from making up days missed due to inclement weather if the student has met the school district's graduation requirements.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the school calendar for recommendation, approval, and adoption by the board annually.

The board may amend the official school calendar when the board considers the change to be in the best interests of the school district's education program.  The board shall hold a public hearing on any proposed school calendar prior to adopting the school calendar.

Approved  7-1-92                  Reviewed  1-12-98, 12-11-00     Revised   4-9-07, 0-13-12        

1-12-04, 12-14-09, 6-11-12 7-14-14, 7-13-15, 12-13-22, 5-8-17 12-20-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:17

601.2 - School Day

601.2 - School Day

The student school day for grades one through twelve shall consist of a minimum of six hours, not including the lunch period.  The school day consists of the schedule of class instruction and class activities as established and sponsored by the school district.       Time during which students are released from school for parent/teacher conferences shall be counted as part of  students' instructional time.  The minimum school day shall meet the requirements as established for the operation of accredited schools.

The board may define the number of days kindergarten will be held and the length of each school day for the students attending kindergarten.   The school day shall consist of a schedule as recommended by the superintendent and approved by the board.

The school district may also record a day of school with less than the minimum instructional hours if the total hours of instructional time for grades one through twelve in any five consecutive school days equals a minimum of thirty hours, even though any one day of school is less than the minimum instructional hours because of a staff development opportunity provided for the instructional staff or parent-teacher conferences have been schedule beyond the regular school day.  If the total hours of instruction time for the first four consecutive days equal at least thirty hours because parent-teacher conferences have been scheduled beyond the regular school day, the school district may record zero hours of instructional time on the fifth consecutive school day as a school day.  Schedule revisions and changes in time allotments will be made by the superintendent.

When the school is forced to close due to weather or other emergencies, the part of the day during which school was in session will constitute a school day.  The superintendent will create administrative regulations necessary to utilize any remote learning opportunities that are available and permitted by law during the period of closure.  The provision of special education and accommodations for students who have individualized education programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans during periods of closure will be determined by each respective IEP or Section 504 team.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to inform the board annually of the length of the school day.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92            
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 12-14-09, 06-11-12, 5-8-17
Revised:
12-13-22

                          

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:20

602 - Curriculum Development

602 - Curriculum Development dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:15

602.1 - Curriculum Development

602.1 - Curriculum Development

Curriculum development is an ongoing process in the school district and consists of both research and design.  Research is the studious inquiry and critical investigation of the various content areas for the purpose of revising and improving curriculum and instruction based on relevant information pertaining to the discipline.  This study is conducted both internally (what and how we are currently doing at the local level) and externally (what national standards, professional organizations, recognized experts, current research, etc. tell us relative to the content area).  Design is the deliberate process of planning and selecting the standards and instructional strategies that will improve the learning experiences for all students.  The board delegates the curriculum development process to the superintendent, who will make curriculum development recommendations and submit them to the board for final approval.

 

A systematic approach to curriculum development (careful research, design, and articulation of the curriculum) serves several purposes:

  • Focuses attention on the content standards of each discipline and ensures the identified learnings are rigorous, challenging, and represent the most important learnings for our students.
  • Increases the probability that students will acquire the desired knowledge, skills, and dispositions and that our schools will be successful in providing appropriate learning experiences.
  • Facilitates communication and coordination.
  • Improves classroom instruction.

 

The superintendent shall be responsible for the curriculum development process and for determining the most effective method of conducting research and design activities.  A curriculum framework shall describe the processes and procedures that will be followed in researching, designing, and articulating each curriculum area.  This framework will, at a minimum, describe the processes and procedures for the following curriculum development activities to:

  • Study the latest thinking, trends, research, and expert advice regarding the content/discipline;
  • Study the current status of the content/discipline (what and how well students are currently learning);
  • Identify content standards, benchmarks, and grade level expectations for the content/discipline;
  • Describe the desired learning behaviors, teaching, and learning environment related to the content/discipline;
  • Identify differences in the desired and present program and develop a plan for addressing the differences;
  • Communicate with internal and external publics regarding the content area;
  • Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum development decisions;
  • Verify how the standards and benchmarks of the content/discipline support each of the broader student learning goals and provide a K-12 continuum that builds on the prior learning of each level.
  • Ensure proposed curriculum complies with applicable laws.
  • Align annual improvement goals with needs assessment information.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of necessary curriculum revisions, progress of each content area related to curriculum development activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum development including recommendations to the board.

 

 

Approved                                        
Reviewed  5-8-17, 7-8-19                                                                      
Revised        11-13-00, 12-13-22           

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:16

602.2 - Curriculum Implementation

602.2 - Curriculum Implementation

Without careful and continuing attention to implementation, planned changes in curriculum and instruction rarely succeed as intended.  How change is put into practice, to a large extent, determines how well it fares.

Implementation refers to what actually happens in practice as compared to what was supposed to happen.  Curriculum implementation includes the provision of organized assistance to staff in order to ensure that the newly developed curriculum and the most powerful instructional strategies are actually delivered at the classroom level.  There are two components of any implementation effort that must be present to guarantee the planned changes in curriculum and instruction succeed as intended:

  • Understanding the conceptual framework of the content/discipline being implemented; and,
  • Organized assistance to understand the theory, observe exemplary demonstrations, have opportunities to practice, and receive coaching and feedback focused on the most powerful instructional strategies to deliver the content at the classroom level.

The superintendent shall be responsible for curriculum implementation and for determining the most effective way of providing organized assistance and monitoring the level of implementation.  A curriculum framework shall describe the processes and procedures that will be followed to assist all staff in developing the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully implement the developed curriculum in each content area.  This framework will, at a minimum, describe the processes and procedures for the following curriculum implementation activities to:

  • Study and identify the best instructional practices and materials to deliver the content;
  • Describe procedures for the purchase of instructional materials and resources;
  • Identify/develop exemplars that demonstrate the learning behaviors, teaching, and learning environment to deliver the content;
  • Study the current status of instruction in the content area  (how teachers are teaching);
  • Compare the desired and present delivery system, identify differences (gap analysis), and develop a plan for addressing the differences;
  • Organize staff into collaborative study teams to support their learning and implementation efforts (address the gaps);
  • Provide ongoing professional development related to instructional strategies and materials that focuses on theory, demonstration, practice, and feedback;
  • Regularly monitor and assess the level of implementation;
  • Communicate with internal and external publics regarding curriculum implementation;
  • Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum implementation decisions;
  • Ensure the curriculum framework complies with applicable laws;
  • Provide professional development to staff to support effective curriculum implementation.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of curriculum implementation activities, progress of each content area related to curriculum implementation activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum implementation including recommendations to the board.

 

 

Approved:                                    
Reviewed:  12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 06-11-12, 5-8-17
Revised: 11-13-00, 12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:19

602.3 - Curriculum Evaluation

602.3 - Curriculum Evaluation

Regular evaluation of the total curriculum is necessary to ensure that the written and delivered curriculum is having the desired effect for students.

Curriculum evaluation refers to an ongoing process of collecting, analyzing, synthesizing, and interpreting information to aid in understanding what students know and can do.  It refers to the full range of information gathered in the school district to evaluate (make judgments about) student learning and program effectiveness in each content area.

Curriculum evaluation must be based on information gathered from a comprehensive assessment system that is designed for accountability and committed to the concept that all students will achieve at high levels, is standards-based, and informs decisions which impact significant and sustainable improvements in teaching and student learning.

The superintendent shall be responsible for curriculum evaluation and for determining the most effective way of ensuring that assessment activities are integrated into instructional practices as part of school improvement with a particular focus on improving teaching and learning.  A curriculum framework shall describe the procedures that will be followed to establish an evaluation process that can efficiently and effectively evaluate the total curriculum.  This framework will, at a minimum, describe the procedures for the following curriculum evaluation activities:

  • Identify specific purposes for assessing student learning;
  • Develop a comprehensive assessment plan;
  • Select/develop assessment tools and scoring procedures that are valid and reliable;
  • Identify procedures for collecting assessment data;
  • Identify procedures for analyzing and interpreting information and drawing conclusions based on the data (including analysis of the performance of various sub-groups of students);
  • Identify procedures for establishing at least three levels of performance (specific to the content standard and the assessment tool when appropriate) to assist in determining whether  students have achieved at a satisfactory level (at least two levels describe performance that is proficient or advanced and at least one level describes students who are not yet performing at the proficient level);
  • Identify procedures for using assessment information to determine long-range and annual improvement goals;
  • Identify procedures for using assessment information in making decisions focused on improving teaching and learning (data based decision making);
  • Provide support to staff in using data to make instructional decisions;
  • Define procedures for regular and clear communication about assessment results to the various internal and external publics (mandatory for communication about students receiving special education services);
  • Define data reporting procedures;
  • Verify that assessment tools are fair for all students and are consistent with all state and federal mandates;
  • Verify that assessment tools measure the curriculum that is written and delivered;
  • Identify procedures for deciding when multiple assessment measures are necessary for making good decisions and drawing appropriate conclusions about student learning;
  • Identify roles and responsibilities of key groups;
  • Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum evaluation;
  • Ensure participation of eligible students receiving special education services in school district-wide assessments.
  • Ensure curriculum complies with applicable laws.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of curriculum evaluation activities, the progress of each content area related to curriculum evaluation activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum evaluation including recommendations to the board.

 

 

           
Approved                      
Reviewed  5-8-17                      
Revised 12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:16

602.4 - Pilot - Experimental - Innovative Projects

602.4 - Pilot - Experimental - Innovative Projects

The board welcomes new ideas in curriculum.  Proposals for pilot or experimental projects shall be reviewed and  analyzed by the superintendent.  Projects recommended by the superintendent will be considered by the board.  Pilot and experimental projects approved by the board, the Iowa Department of Education or the United States Department of Education may be utilized in the education program.

Students, who may be or are asked to participate in a research or experimental project or program, must have their parents’/guardians’ written consent on file prior to participating in the project or program.  A research or experimentation program or project requiring parents' prior written consent is a program or project designed to explore or develop new or unproven teaching methods or techniques.  These programs or projects shall be designated as research or experimental projects or programs.  The educational materials of a program or project designated as a research or experimental program or project may be inspected and reviewed by the parents of the students participating or being considered for participation in the program or project.  The inspection and review by the parents/guardians shall be in accordance with board policy.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-14-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised: 12-13-22
       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:15

603 - Instructional Curriculum

603 - Instructional Curriculum dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:40

603.1 - Basic Instruction Program

603.1 - Basic Instruction Program

The basic instruction program shall include the courses required for each grade level by the Iowa Department of Education.  The instructional approach will be gender fair and multicultural.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in kindergarten is designed to develop healthy emotional and social habits, language arts and communication skills, the capacity to complete individual tasks, character education, and the ability to protect and increase physical well-being with attention given to experiences relating to the development of life skills and human growth and development.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades one through six shall include English-language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, health, human growth and development, physical education, traffic safety, music, visual art, and computer science.  Computer science will be offered during at least one grade level.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades seven and eight shall include English-language arts, social studies including instruction related to civics, mathematics, science, health, human growth and development, family and consumer, career, technology education, physical education, music, visual art, and computer science.  Computer science will be offered during at least one grade level.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades nine through twelve shall include English-language arts (6 units), social studies (5 units), mathematics (6 units), science (5 units), health (1 unit), physical education (1 unit), fine arts (2 units), foreign language (2 units), financial literacy (1/2 unit), vocational education (12 units), and computer science (1/2 unit).

The board may, in its discretion, offer additional courses in the instruction program for any grade level.

Each instructional program is carefully planned for optimal benefit taking into consideration the financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the board or superintendent.  Each instructional program's plan should describe the program, its goals, the effective materials, the activities, and the method for student evaluation.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations stating the required courses and optional courses for kindergarten, grades one through six, grades seven and eight, and grades nine through twelve.

 

 

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92            
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-08, 12-14-09, 5-8-17, 8-21-24
Revised: 12-13-22, 9-19-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:11

603.12- Basic Instruction Program

603.12- Basic Instruction Program

The district believes in the importance of education to shape the lives of all students. Some students may consider postsecondary education and training beyond their secondary education, and have questions related to the cost of education programs and the future employability of graduates. It is valuable for students who express an interest in postsecondary education to make informed decisions related to their future options.  

 

The district will ensure that students in grades eleven and twelve who express interest in postsecondary education will be provided with basic information to assist in their decision-making. This information includes but may not be limited to: 

  • A link to the annual report published by the State Board of Regents pursuant to Iowa Code 262.9(38); and
  • a link to the Iowa Student Outcomes internet site maintained by the Department of Education.

If the district employs a college and career transition counselor, this staff member will provide the information to interested students. If the district does not employ this type of counselor, the superintendent will designate a staff member to ensure this information is provided to interested students. 

Approved   8-21-24                 Reviewed                Revised  

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 08/22/2024 - 15:25

603.2 - Summer School Instruction

603.2 - Summer School Instruction

The school district recognizes the importance of ongoing learning opportunities for students. As such, the school district shall offer summer school instruction in accordance with the following:

  • The board, in its discretion, may offer summer school for one or more courses and student activities for students who need additional help and instruction or for enrichment in those areas.  Upon receiving a request for summer school, the board will weigh the benefit to the students and the school district as well as the school district's budget and availability of licensed employees to conduct summer school.
  • If a child who is eligible for special education has been determined to need extended school year services as necessary to receive a free appropriate public education, as determined according to state and federal law, such services shall be provided as described in the child’s individualized education program.
  • In additional instances as provided by law.

Approved: 7-1-92                  
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07
Revised:  12-14-15, 9-20-17, 12-13-22        

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:14

603.3 - Special Education

603.3 - Special Education

The board recognizes some students have different educational needs than other students.  The board will provide a free appropriate public education program and related services to students identified in need of special education.  The special education services will be provided from birth until the appropriate education is completed, age twenty-one or to maximum age allowable in accordance with the law.  Students requiring special education will attend general education classes, participate in nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities, and receive services in a general education setting to the maximum extent appropriate to the needs of each individual student.  The appropriate education for each student is written in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Special education students are required to meet the requirements stated in board policy and in their IEPs for graduation.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent and the area education agency director of special education to provide or make provisions for appropriate special education and related services.

Children from birth through age 2 and children age 3 through age 5 are provided comprehensive special education services within the public education system.  The school district will work in conjunction with the area education agency to provide services, at the earliest appropriate time, to children with disabilities from birth through age 2.  This is done to ensure a smooth transition of children entitled to early childhood special education services.

 

 

Approved:                         
Reviewed:  12-11-00, 1-12-04, 02-13-07, 5-8-17                                  
Revised:  11-13-00, 03-09-09, 12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:10

603.4 - Multicultural/Gender Fair Education

603.4 - Multicultural/Gender Fair Education

Students will have an equal opportunity for a quality education without discrimination, regardless of  race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity,  or socioeconomic status.

The education program is free of discrimination and provides equal opportunity for the students.  The education program will foster knowledge of and respect and appreciation for the historical and contemporary contributions of diverse cultural groups, as well as men and women, to society.  Special emphasis is placed on Asian-Americans, African-Americans, Hispanic-Americans, American Indians, European-Americans, and persons with disabilities.  It will also reflect the wide variety of roles open to both men and women and provide equal opportunity to both sexes.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92                      
Reviewed:  01-12-98, 02-12-01, 01-12-04, 5-8-17                                                     
Revised:  04-10-06, 02-09-09. 03-09-09, 12-13-22            
               

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:08

603.5 - Health Education

603.5 - Health Education

603.5

HEALTH EDUCATION

Students in grade levels one through twelve shall receive, as part of their health education, instruction about personal health; food and nutrition; environmental health; safety and survival skills; consumer health; family life; human growth and development; substance abuse and non-use, including the effects of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and poisons on the human body; human sexuality; self-esteem; stress management; interpersonal relationships; emotional and social health; health resources; prevention and control of disease; and communicable diseases.  The purpose of the health education program is to help each student protect, improve, and maintain physical, emotional, and social well-being

The areas stated above shall be included in health education and the instruction shall be adapted at each grade level to aid understanding by the students.

Parents who object to health education instruction in human growth and development may file a written request that the student be excused from the instruction.  The written request shall include a proposed alternate activity or study acceptable to the superintendent.   The superintendent shall have the final authority to determine the alternate activity or study.

Approved:  07-01-92                 Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17, 12-20-23            Revised:  12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:09

603.5E1 - Human Growth and Development Student Excuse Form

603.5E1 - Human Growth and Development Student Excuse Form

Student Name:_______________________________________              Grade:  _______________

 Parent/Guardian: ____________________________________        Phone #:  _____________     

Please list the curricular objective(s) from which you wish to have your child excused and the class or grade in which each is taught.   An example is provided for you to follow.

Objective                                                                                            Class/Grade                               
Ex.   To understand the consequences of responsible               Health/Education/6
                irresponsible sexual behavior.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

I have reviewed the Human Growth and Development program goals, objectives, and materials and wish my child to be excused from class when these objectives are taught.  I understand my child will incur no penalty but may/shall be required to complete an alternative assignment that relates to the class and is consistent with assignments required of all students in the class.

 

 

Signed:  _________________________________________            Date:  ___________________
                  (Parent or Guardian)

 

Signed:  _________________________________________              Date:  ____________________
                  (School Administrator)

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:12

603.6 - Physical Education

603.6 - Physical Education

Students in grades one through twelve shall be required to participate in physical education courses unless they are excused by the principal of their attendance center.

Students may be excused from physical education courses if the student presents a written statement from a doctor stating that such activities could be injurious to the health of the student or the student has been exempted because of a conflict with the student's religious beliefs.

Students in grades 9-12 may also be excused from physical education courses if:

•           the student is enrolled in academic courses not otherwise available; or

•           the student has obtained a physical education waiver for a semester because the student is actively involved in an athletic program; or

•           the student is participating in the legislative page program at the state capitol for a regular session of the general assembly’; or

•           the student is enrolled in a junior reserve officer training corps.

Twelfth grade students may also be excused from physical education courses if the student is enrolled in a cooperative, work study or other educational program authorized by the school which requires the student's absence from school.

Students who will not participate in physical education must have a written request or statement from their parents.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92                                                                                               
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 01-13-07, 12-14-09, 06-11-12, 5-8-17                                      
Revised:  08-13-12, 12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:09

603.7 - Career Education

603.7 - Career Education

Preparing students for careers is one goal of the education program.  Career education will be written into the education program for grades kindergarten through twelve.  This education shall include, but not be limited to, awareness of self in relation to others and the needs of society, exploration of employment opportunities, experiences in personal decision-making, and experiences of integrating work values and work skills into their lives.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to assist licensed employees in finding ways to provide career education in the education program. Special attention should be given to courses of vocational education nature. The board, in its review of the curriculum, shall review the means in which career education is combined with other instructional programs.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                                                                                               
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17                                            
Revised: 12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:04

603.8 - Teaching About Religion

603.8 - Teaching About Religion

The school district is required to keep the practice of religion out of the school curriculum.   The board recognizes the key role religion has played in the history of the world and authorizes the study of religious history and traditions as part of the curriculum.        Preferential or derogatory treatment to a single religion shall not take place.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure the study of religion in the schools in keeping with the following guidelines:

•           the proposed activity must have a secular purpose;

•           the primary object of the activity must not be one that advances or inhibits religion; and

•           the activity must not foster excessive governmental entanglement with religion.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                                                                                                
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17                                   
Revised:12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:01

603.8R1 - Teaching About Religion Regulation - Religious Holidays

603.8R1 - Teaching About Religion Regulation - Religious Holidays

The historical and contemporary significance of religious holidays may be included in the education program provided that the instruction is presented in an unbiased and objective manner.  The selection of holidays to be studied will take into account major celebrations of several world religions, not just those of a single religion. Holiday-related activities will be educationally sound and sensitive to religious differences and will be selected carefully to avoid the excessive or unproductive use of school time. Teachers will be especially careful in planning activities that are to take place immediately preceding or on a religious holiday.

Music, art, literature and drama having religious themes (including traditional carols, seasonal songs and classical music) will be permitted if presented in an objective manner without sectarian indoctrination.  The emphasis on religious themes is only as extensive as necessary for a balanced and comprehensive study or presentation.  Religious content included in student performances is selected on the basis of its independent educational merit and will seek to give exposure to a variety of religious customs, beliefs and forms of expression.  Holiday programs, parties or performances will not become religious celebrations or be used as a forum for religious worship, such as the devotional reading of sacred writings or the recitations of prayers.

The use of religious symbols (e.g. a cross, menorah, crescent, Star of David, lotus blossom, nativity scene or other symbol that is part of a religious ceremony) are permitted as a teaching aid, but only when such symbols are used temporarily and objectively to give information about a heritage associated with a particular religion.  The Christmas tree, Santa Claus, Easter eggs, Easter bunnies and Halloween decorations are secular, seasonal symbols and as such can be displayed in a seasonal context.

Expressions of belief or nonbelief initiated by individual students are permitted in composition, art forms, music, speech and debate. However, teachers may not require projects or activities which indoctrinate or force students to contradict their personal religious beliefs or nonbeliefs.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 16:02

603.9 - Academic Freedom

603.9 - Academic Freedom

The board believes students should have an opportunity to reach their own decision and beliefs about conflicting points of view.  Academic freedom is the opportunity of licensed employees and students to study, investigate, present, interpret, and discuss facts and ideas relevant to the subject matter of the classroom and appropriate to and in good taste with the maturity and intellectual and emotional capacities of the students.

It shall be the responsibility of the teacher to refrain from advocating partisan causes, sectarian religious views or biased positions in the classroom or through teaching methods.  Teachers are not discouraged from expressing personal opinions as long as students are aware it is a personal opinion and students are allowed to reach their own conclusions independently.

It shall be the responsibility of the principal to ensure academic freedom is allowed but not abused in the classroom.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17        
Revised:  12-13-22                                                                

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:40

603.9R1 - Academic Freedom - Teaching Controversial Issues

603.9R1 - Academic Freedom - Teaching Controversial Issues

A controversial issue is a topic of significant academic inquiry about which substantial groups of citizens of this community, this state or this nation hold sincere, conflicting points of view.

It is the belief of the board that controversial issues should be fairly presented in a spirit of honest academic freedom so that students may recognize the validity of other points of view but can also learn to formulate their own opinions based upon dispassionate, objective, unbiased study, and discussion of the facts related to the controversy.

It is the responsibility of the teacher to present full and fair opportunity and means for students to study, consider and discuss all sides of controversial issues including, but not limited to, political philosophies.

It is the responsibility of the teacher to protect the right of the student to study pertinent controversial issues within the limits of good taste and to allow the student to express personal opinions without jeopardizing the student's relationship with the teacher.

It is the responsibility of the teacher to refrain from advocating partisan causes, sectarian religious views, or selfish propaganda of any kind through any classroom or school device; however, a teacher will not be prohibited from expressing a personal opinion as long as students are encouraged to reach their own decisions independently.

The board encourages full discussion of controversial issues in a spirit of academic freedom that shows students that they have the right to disagree with the opinions of others but that they also have the responsibility to base the disagreement on facts and to respect the right of others to hold conflicting opinions.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:41

603.10 - Global Education

603.10 - Global Education

Because of our growing interdependence with other nations in the world, global education shall be incorporated into the education program for grades kindergarten through twelve so that students have the opportunity to acquire a perspective on world issues, problems, and prospects for an awareness of the relationship between an individual's self-interest and the concerns of people elsewhere in the world.  Global education, in the education program, is the lifelong growth in understanding, through study and participation, of the world community and the interdependency of its people and systems--social, cultural, racial, economic, linguistic, technological, and ecological.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:48

603.11 - Citizenship

603.11 - Citizenship

Being a citizen of the United States, of Iowa, and of the school district community entitles students to special privileges and protections as well as requiring the students to assume civic, economic, and social responsibilities and to participate in their country, state, and school district community in a manner that entitles them to keep these rights and privileges.

As part of the education program, students shall have an opportunity to learn about their rights, privileges, and responsibilities as citizens of this country, state, and school district community.  As part of this learning opportunity students shall be instructed in the elements of good citizenship and the role quality citizens play in their country, state, and school district community.

 

 

Approved:   07-01-92            
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-17-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:48

604 - Alternative Programs

604 - Alternative Programs dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:30

604.1 - Competent Private Instruction

604.1 - Competent Private Instruction

The school district recognizes that families with students of compulsory attendance age may select alternative forms of education outside the traditional school setting, including private instruction. The applicable legal requirements for private instruction, including, but not limited to those relating to reporting and evaluations for progress, shall be followed.

Except as otherwise exempted, in the event a child of compulsory attendance age as defined by law does not attend public school or an accredited nonpublic school, the child must receive private instruction. Private instruction means instruction using a plan and a course of study in a setting other than a public or organized accredited nonpublic school. 

Private instruction can take the form of competent private instruction and independent private instruction. The Iowa Department of Education recognizes three options for delivery of this form of instruction: two options for delivery of competent private instruction and one option for independent private instruction.

Competent private instruction means private instruction provided on a daily basis for at least one hundred forty-eight days during a school year, to be met by attendance for at least thirty-seven days each school quarter by or under supervision of a licensed practitioner, which results in the student making adequate progress or private instruction provided by a parent, guardian or legal custodian. 

Independent private instruction means instruction that meets the following criteria: (i) is not accredited, (ii) enrolls not more than four unrelated students, (iii) does not charge tuition, fees or other remuneration for instruction, (iv) provides private or religious-based instruction as its primary purpose, (v) provides enrolled students with instruction in mathematics, reading and language arts, science, and social studies, (vi) provides, upon written request from the superintendent of the school district in which the independent private instruction is provided or from the director of the department of education, a report identifying the primary instructor, location, name of the authority responsible for the independent private instruction, and the names of the students enrolled, (vii) is not a nonpublic school and does not provide competent private instruction as defined herein, and (viii) is exempt from all state statutes and administrative rules applicable to a school, a school board or a school district, except as otherwise provided by law.

 

 

Approved                                                                                               
Reviewed 1-14-98, 12-11-006-11-12, 5-8-17
Revised 1-12-04, 8-10-12, 1-12-04, 1-17-07, 12-14-09, 7-13-15, 12-13-22

                                  

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:46

604.2 - Individualized Instruction

604.2 - Individualized Instruction

The board's primary responsibility in the management of the school district is the operation and delivery of the regular education program.  Generally, students attending the school district will receive the regular education program offered by the district.  Only in exceptional circumstances will the board approve students receiving individualized instruction at the expense of the school district.

Recommendations from the superintendent for individualized instruction will state the need for the instruction, the objectives and goals sought for the instruction, the employee requirements for the instruction, the implementation procedures for the instruction and the evaluation procedures and processes that will be used to assess the value of the instruction.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17                                                
Revised:  12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:45

604.3 - International Study

604.3 - International Study

The board recognizes some students may wish to take courses outside the country.  The board must approve international exchange student study programs prior to acceptance of the program by the student.  The board's approval is not an assumption of liability, but rather an approval of the credits from the program toward the graduation requirements.

Students must obtain board approval prior to participating in the international exchange student program, unless it is a continuing program which has received a favorable evaluation by the administration and the program will be carried out in the future as it has been in the past.

The students and employees or others, traveling with the students, shall assume all costs and have personal insurance and liability protection.  The school district assumes no cost or liability for the participants.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board informed of ongoing programs and to bring new programs to the board's attention.

 

 

Approved                                                                                               
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-04-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 
5-8-17
Revised:  7-1-92, 12-13-22 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:43

604.4 - Program for Talented and Gifted Students

604.4 - Program for Talented and Gifted Students

The board recognizes some students require programming beyond the regular education program.  The board shall identify students with special abilities and provide education programming.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a talented and gifted program which provides for identifying students, for program evaluation, and for training of employees.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-18-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  12-13-22                                                    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:42

604.5 - Program for At-Risk Students

604.5 - Program for At-Risk Students

The board recognizes some students require additional assistance in order to graduate from the regular education program.  The board shall provide a plan to encourage and provide an opportunity for at-risk students to achieve their potential and obtain their high school diploma.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a plan for students at-risk which provides for identifying students, for program evaluation, and for the training of employees.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised: 12-13-22                                                     

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:37

604.6 - Religious-Based Exclusion from a School Program

604.6 - Religious-Based Exclusion from a School Program

Parents who wish to have their child excluded from a school program because of religious beliefs must inform the superintendent.  The board authorizes the administration to allow the exclusion if it is not disruptive to the education program and it does not infringe on a compelling state or education interest. Further, the exclusion must not interfere with other school district operations.

In notifying the superintendent, the parents shall abide by the following:

•           The notice shall be in writing;

•           The objection shall be based on religious beliefs;

•           The objection shall state which activities or studies violate their religious beliefs;

•           The objection shall state why these activities or studies violate their religious beliefs; and

•           The objection shall state a proposed alternate activity or study.

The superintendent shall have discretion to make this determination.   The factors the superintendent shall consider when a student requests to be excluded from a program or activity because of religious beliefs include, but are not limited to, staff available to supervise a student who wishes to be excluded, space to house the student while the student is excluded, available superintendent-approved alternative course of study or activity while the student is excluded, numbers of students who wish to be excluded, whether allowing the exclusion places the school in a position of supporting a particular religion, and whether the program or activity is required for promotion to the next grade level or for graduation.

Students who are allowed to be excluded from a program or activity which violates their religious beliefs shall be required to do an alternate supervised activity or study.

 

 

Approved:                              
Reviewed:  5-8-17                             
Revised:  12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:33

604.7 - Instruction at a Post-Secondary Educational Institution

604.7 - Instruction at a Post-Secondary Educational Institution

In accordance with this policy, students in grades nine through twelve may receive academic or career and technical education credits that count toward the graduation requirements set out by the board for courses successfully completed in post-secondary educational institutions.  Students and parents or guardians shall be made aware of the post-secondary instructional opportunities as part of the development of each student’s individual career and academic plan as required by law.  The Superintendent or designee is responsible for developing the appropriate forms and procedures for implementing this policy and the following post-secondary educational opportunities:   

Concurrent Enrollment

The board may, in its discretion, enter into a contractual agreement with a community college to provide courses for eligible students in grades nine through twelve when comparable courses are not offered by the school district. Notice of the availability of the concurrent enrollment program shall be included in the school district’s registration handbook, and the handbook shall identify which courses, if successfully completed, generate post-secondary credit. Students shall not be charged tuition for concurrent enrollment courses and shall not be required to reimburse the school district for tuition if they do not successfully complete a course. Students or their parents or guardians may be required to pay a fee consistent with the school district’s established textbook policy and other materials for the concurrent enrollment course to the extent permitted by law.  Students or their parents or guardians may also be required to provide their own transportation to and from concurrent enrollment courses to the extent permitted by law.  However, transportation shall be the responsibility of the school district for any contracted course that is used to meet school district accreditation requirements.

Students who successfully complete a concurrent enrollment course, as determined by the postsecondary institution, shall receive postsecondary credit in accordance with the institution’s policies and high school credit that will be reflected on their high school transcript.  The Superintendent or designee shall grant to a student who successfully completes a concurrent enrollment course a unit of high school graduation credit for every unit of high school level instruction successfully completed.  

Post-Secondary Enrollment Option

Ninth and tenth grade students who have been identified by the school district as gifted and talented, and eligible eleventh and twelfth grade students, may utilize the Post-Secondary Enrollment Option (“PSEO”) program.  To qualify, a course must be a nonsectarian, credit-bearing course that leads to a degree, and in the areas of: mathematics, science, social sciences, humanities, career and technical education.  A course is not eligible for PSEO if a comparable course is offered by the school district.  In addition, courses at a community college with which the district has a concurrent enrollment agreement are not eligible for PSEO.  Students shall not be charged for tuition, textbooks, materials, or fees related to a PSEO course with the exception of equipment that becomes the property of the student. 

The school district shall reimburse the post-secondary institution for tuition and other expenses for each PSEO course up to $250.  Students who successfully complete a PSEO course, as determined by the postsecondary institution, shall receive postsecondary credit and high school credit.  The Superintendent or designee shall grant to a student who successfully completes a PSEO course a unit of high school graduation credit for every unit of high school level instruction successfully completed.  

Transportation to and from the postsecondary institution is the responsibility of the student or parent or legal guardian of the student enrolled in a PSEO course.  Eligible students may take up to seven hours of post-secondary credit during the summer months and receive high school credit upon successful completion of a post-secondary course.  However, the student or student’s parent or legal guardian are responsible for all costs associated with courses taken during the summer.   

Students who fail a PSEO course and fail to receive credit are required to reimburse the school district for all costs directly related to the course up to the $250.00 reimbursement maximum.  Prior to registering, students under the age of eighteen are required to have a parent or guardian sign a form indicating that the parent is responsible for the costs of the course should the student fail the course and fail to receive credit.  Reimbursement waivers may be granted by the board if sufficient verification is provided to show that the student was unable to complete the course for reasons outside the student’s control, including but not limited to physical incapacity, a death in the student’s immediate family, or a move out of the school district.   

If a student is unable to demonstrate proficiency or the school district or accredited nonpublic school determines that the course unit completed by the student does not meet the school district’s standards, the superintendent shall provide in writing to the student’s parent or guardian the reason for the denial of credit.

 

 

 Approved:                 
Reviewed:  06-11-12, 5-8-17             
Revised:  08-13-12, 12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:36

604.8 - Dual Enrollment

604.8 - Dual Enrollment

The parent, guardian or custodian of a student receiving competent private instruction may also enroll the student in the school district in accordance with state law and policy. The student is considered under dual enrollment.  The parent, guardian or custodian requesting dual enrollment for the student should notify the board secretary no later than September 15 of the school year in which dual enrollment is sought on forms provided by the school district. On the form, they will indicate the extracurricular and academic activities in which the student is interested in participating.  The forms are available at the central administration office.

A dual enrollment student is eligible to participate in the school district's extracurricular and academic activities in the same manner as other students enrolled in the school district. The policies and administrative rules of the school district will apply to the dual enrollment students in the same manner as the other students enrolled in the school district. These policies and administrative rules will include, but not be limited to, athletic eligibility requirements, the good conduct rule, academic eligibility requirements, and payment of applicable fees.

A dual enrollment student whose parent, guardian or custodian has chosen standardized testing as the form of the student's annual assessment will not be responsible for the cost of the test or the administration of the test.

After the student notifies the school district which activities in which they wish to participate, the school district will provide information regarding the specific programs.

The applicable legal requirements for dual enrollment including, but not limited to those related to reporting and eligibility, shall be followed

 

 

Approved: 11-11-91        
Reviewed: 2-14-95, 1-12-98, 12-11-00, 1-12-04, 2-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17           
Revised: 7-13-15, 12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:35

604.9 - Foreign Students

604.9 - Foreign Students

Foreign students must meet all school district entrance requirements including age, place of residence, and immunization.  Foreign students must be approved by the board.  The board reserves the right to limit the number of foreign students accepted.  Students who are citizens of a foreign country will be considered residents if they meet one of the following requirements

•           The student resides with his/her parents(s) or legal guardian;

•           The student is in the United States with appropriate documentation (Form I-20) from the United States Department of Justice-Immigration and Naturalization Services; or

•           The student is a participant in a recognized foreign exchange program; and

•           The student is physically able to attend school and has provided the school district with such proof, including a current TB test.

 

 

Approved:                                                                                               
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  07-01-92, 12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:34

604.10 - Online Courses

604.10 - Online Courses

The board recognizes that online coursework may be a good-alternative for students to not only meet graduation requirements but also have the opportunity to take advanced or other courses not offered by the school district.

High school students may earn a maximum of 4 credits to be applied toward graduation requirements by completing online courses offered through the district or through agencies approved by the board and the Iowa Department of Education . Credit from an online course may be earned only in the following circumstances:

  • The course is not offered at the high school;
  • Although the course is offered at the high school, the virtual educational setting will be more conducive to the student’s individual learning needs;
  • Although the course is offered at the high school, the student will not be able to take it due to an unavoidable scheduling conflict that would keep the student from meeting graduation requirements.                                                                         
  • The course will serve as a supplement to extend homebound instruction;
  • The student has been given a long-term suspension from the regular school setting, but educational services are to be continued; or
  • The principal, with agreement from the student's teachers and parents, determines the student requires a differentiated or accelerated learning environment.

Students applying for permission to take an online course shall complete prerequisites and provide teacher/counselor recommendations to confirm the student possesses the maturity level needed to function effectively in the online learning environment.   In addition, the express approval of the principal shall be obtained before a student enrolls in an online course. The school district must receive an official record of the student’s final percentage score and suggested grade before credit toward graduation will be recognized.

Provided online courses are part of the student's regular school day coursework and within budgetary parameters, the tuition costs for an online course shall be borne by the school district during the fall and spring semesters, but may be passed on to the parent/guardian during the summer semester.  Any additional costs such as textbooks, rentals or school supplies, shall be borne by the parents for students enrolled full-time.

 

 

Approved: 12-12-05        
Reviewed: 12-13-07, 12-14-05
, 5-8-17                                         
Revised:  12-12-05, 7-8-19, 12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:31

604.11 - Appropriate Use of Online Learning Platforms

604.11 - Appropriate Use of Online Learning Platforms

It is important to embrace technology that can foster a creative, interactive learning environment for students, and facilitate employee professional development and collaboration.  The use of online platforms to host remote interaction between students and employees and to facilitate learning is encouraged in the school district. 

While student and employee instruction and communication using online platforms provides a wide array of learning opportunities, it is imperative that employees and students recognize that the use of such platforms is a privilege.  Training related to the use of online learning platforms will be provided to employees and students.

The school district shall carefully safeguard the right of students and employees to learn and teach in a respectful environment regardless of the method. All instruction and communication through online learning platforms should be appropriate to the age and ability of the participants.  Students and employees should be aware that online platforms may be monitored by the school district.  Verbal and written communication occurring on these platforms may be recorded and stored by the school district in accordance with applicable laws.   

Any verbal or written communication on these platforms deemed to be inappropriate will subject the student and/or employee to the same disciplinary measures that would exist if the interaction took place through traditional in-person learning. Students and employees who have concerns about the proper use of these platforms are encouraged to speak with their teachers or building principal.

 

 

Approved: 12-13-22              
Reviewed:                                                
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:32

605 - Instructional Materials

605 - Instructional Materials dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:07

605.1 - Instructional Materials Selection

605.1 - Instructional Materials Selection

The board has sole discretion to approve instructional materials for the school district.  The board delegates this authority to licensed employees to determine which instructional materials, other than textbooks, will be utilized by the school district. The superintendent will provide licensed employees necessary training to ensure selected instructional materials comply with applicable laws.  All instructional materials are available for review upon request and subject to all applicable laws.

In reviewing current instructional materials for continued use and in selecting additional instructional materials, licensed employees will consider the current and future needs of the school district as well as the changes and the trends in education and society.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to report to the board the action taken by licensed employees.

In the case of textbooks, the board will make the final decision after receiving a recommendation from the superintendent.  The criteria stated above for selection of other instructional materials will apply to the selection of textbooks.  The superintendent may develop another means for the selection of textbooks.  Textbooks are reviewed as needed and at least every 10 years.

The superintendent will establish additional criteria to guide the selection of instructional materials through administrative regulation, ensuring alignment with educational goals and compliance with laws.

 

 

Approved:  12-10-07             
Reviewed:  12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17, 12-20-23
Revised: 12-13-22                                                     

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:25

605.1R1 - Selection of Instructional Materials Regulation

605.1R1 - Selection of Instructional Materials Regulation

605.1Rl

SELECTION OF INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

I. Responsibility for Selection of Instructional Materials

A. The board is responsible for matters relating to the operation of the school district.

B. The responsibility for the selection of instructional materials is delegated to the professionally trained and licensed employees of the school system. 

C. While selection of materials may involve many people including principals; teachers, teacher-librarian, students, parents, and community members and, the responsibility for coordinating the selection of most instructional materials and making the recommendation for the purchase rests with licensed employees.

D. Responsibility for coordinating the selection of instructional materials for distribution to classes will rest with the licensed employees, principal, and superintendent. 

E. If the board appoints an ad hoc committee to make recommendations on the selection of instructional materials, the ad hoc committee is formed and appointed in compliance with the board policy on Ad Hoc Committees.

1. The superintendent will inform the committee as to their role and responsibility in the process.

2. The following statement is given to the ad hoc committee members:

Bear in mind the principles of the freedom to learn and to read and base your decision on these broad principles rather than on defense of individual materials.  Freedom of inquiry is vital to education in a democracy.

Study thoroughly all materials referred to you and read available reviews.  The general acceptance of the materials should be checked by consulting standard evaluation aids and local holdings in other schools.

Passages or parts should not be pulled out of context.  The values and faults should be weighed against each other and the opinions based on the material as a whole.

In the event material is challenged, your report, presenting both majority and minority opinions, will be presented by the principal to the complainant at the conclusion of our discussion of the questioned material.

 

II. Material selected for use in libraries and classrooms will meet the following guidelines:

  1. Religion- Material will represent any religions in a factual, unbiased manner.  The primary source material of religions is considered appropriate, but material which advocates rather than informs or is designed to sway reader judgment regarding religion will not be included in the school district libraries or classrooms.

B. Racism- Material will present a diversity of race, custom, culture, and belief as a positive aspect of the nation's heritage and give candid treatment to unresolved intercultural problems, including those which involve prejudice, discrimination, and the undesirable consequences of withholding rights, freedom or respect of an individual.  Required materials will comply with all applicable laws.

C.  Sexism - Material will reflect sensitivity to the needs, rights, traits, and aspirations of individuals without preference or bias.  Required materials will comply with all applicable laws.

D. Age- Material will recognize the diverse contributions of various age groups and portray the continuing contributions of maturing members of society.

E.   Ideology - Material will present basic primary and factual information on an ideology or philosophy of government which exerts or has exerted a strong force, either favorably or unfavorably, over civilization or society, past or present.  This material will not be selected with the intention to sway reader judgment and is related to the maturity level of the intended audience.

F. Profanity and Sex - Material is subjected to a test of literary merit and reality by the teacher-librarians and licensed staff who will take into consideration their reading of public and community standards of morality.

G. Controversial issues materials will be directed toward maintaining a balanced collection representing various views.

The selection decision should be made on the basis of whether the material presents an accurate representation of society and culture, whether the circumstances depicted are realistically portrayed or whether the material has literary or social value when the material is viewed as a whole.

These guidelines will not be construed in such a manner as to preclude materials which accurately represent the customs, morals, manners, culture or society of a different time or a different place.

 

III.   Procedure for Selection

A.  Material purchased for libraries and classrooms is recommended for purchase by licensed employees, in consultation with administrative staff, school district library staff, students or an ad hoc committee as appointed by the board. The material recommended for purchase is approved by the appropriate building administrator.

1. The materials selected will support stated objectives and goals of the school district.  Specifically, the goals are:

a. To acquire materials and provide service consistent with the demands   of the curriculum;

b. To develop students' skills and resourcefulness in the use of libraries and learning resources;

c. To effectively guide and counsel students in the selection and use of materials and libraries;

d. To foster in students a wide range of significant interests;

e. To provide opportunities for aesthetic experiences and development of an appreciation of the fine arts;

f. To provide materials to motivate students to examine their own attitudes and behaviors and to comprehend their own duties and responsibilities as citizens in a pluralistic democracy;

g. To encourage life-long education through the use of the library; and,

h. To work cooperatively and constructively with the instructional and administrative staff in the school district.

2. Materials selected is consistent with stated principles of selection.  These principles are:

a. To select material, within established standards, which will meet the goals and objectives of the school district;

b. To consider the educational characteristics of the community in the selection of materials within a given category;

c. To present the sexual, racial, religious, and ethnic groups in the community by:

1. Portraying people, adults, and children, whatever their ethnic, religious or social class identity, as human and recognizable, displaying a familiar range of emotions, both negative and positive.

2. Placing no constraints on individual aspirations and opportunity.

3. Giving comprehensive, accurate, and balanced representation to minority groups and women - in art and science, history and literature, and in all other fields of life and culture.4.   Providing abundant recognition of minority groups and women by showing them frequently in positions of leadership and authority.

d. To intelligently, quickly, and effectively anticipate and meet needs through awareness of subjects of local, national, and international interest and significance; and,

 e. To strive for impartiality in the selection process.

3.   The materials selected will meet stated selection criteria.  These criteria are:

a. Authority-Author's qualifications - education, experience, and previously published works;

b. Reliability:

1. Accuracy-meaningful organization and emphasis on content, meets the material's goals and objectives, and presents authoritative and realistic factual material.

2. Current-presentation of content which is consistent with the finding of recent and authoritative research.

c.   Treatment of subject-shows an objective reflection for the multi-ethnic character and cultural diversity of society.

d.   Language:

1.  Vocabulary:

a. Does not indicate bias by the use of words which may result in negative value judgments about groups of people;

b. Does not use "man" or similar limiting word usage in generalization or ambiguities which may cause women to feel excluded or dehumanized.

2.   Compatible to the reading level of the student for whom it is intended.

e.   Format:

1.  Book

a.   Adequate and accurate index;

b.   Paper of good quality and color;

c.   Print adequate and well-spaced;

d.   Adequate margins;

e.   Firmly bound; and, 

f.   Cost.

2.   Nonbook

a.   Flexibility, adaptability;

b.   Curricular orientation of significant interest to students;

c.   Appropriate for audience;

d.   Accurate authoritative presentation;

e.   Good production qualities (fidelity, aesthetically adequate);

f.    Durability; and,

g.   Cost.

3.   Illustrations of book and nonbook materials should:

a.   Depict instances of fully integrated grouping and settings to indicate equal status and nonsegregated social relationships.

b.   Make clearly apparent the identity of minorities;

c.   Contain pertinent and effective illustrations;

d.   Flexible to enable the teacher to use parts at a time and not follow a comprehensive instructional program on a rigid frame of reference.

 

f. Special Features:

1.   Bibliographies.

2.   Glossary.

3. Current charts, maps, etc.

4.   Visual aids.

5.   Index.

6.   Special activities to stimulate and challenge students.7.   Provide a variety of learning skills.

g.   Potential use:

1.   Will it meet the requirement of reference work?

2.   Will it help students with personal problems and adjustments?

3.   Will it serve as a source of information for teachers and librarians?

4.   Does it offer an understanding of cultures other than the student's own and is it free of racial, religious, age, disability, ethnic, gender identity, and sexual stereotypes?

5.   Will it expand students' sphere of understanding and help them to understand the ideas and beliefs of others?

6.   Will it help students and teachers keep abreast of and understand current events?

7.   Will it foster and develop hobbies and special interest?

8.   Will it help develop aesthetic tastes and appreciation?

9.   Will it serve the needs of students with special needs?

10. Does it inspire learning?

11. Is it relevant to the subject?

12. Will it stimulate a student's interest?

4. Gifts of library or instructional materials may be accepted if the gift meets existing criteria for library and instructional materials.  The acceptance and placement of such gifts is within the discretion of the board.

5. In order to provide a current, highly usable collection of materials,  teacher-librarians  will ensure constant and continuing renewal of the collection, not only the addition of up-to-date materials, but by the judicious elimination of materials which no longer meet school district needs or find use.  The process of weeding instructional materials will be done according to established and accepted standards for determining the relevance and value of materials in a given context.

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:26

605.2 - Instructional and Library Materials Inspection

605.2 - Instructional and Library Materials Inspection

INSTRUCTIONAL AND LIBRARY MATERIALS INSPECTION

 

Parents and other members of the school district community may view the instructional and library materials used by the students.  All instructional materials, including teacher's manuals, films, tapes or other supplementary material which will be used in connection with any survey, analysis or evaluation as part of any federally funded programs must be available for inspection by parents.  

Instructional and library materials must be viewed on school district premises.

The District will publish on the District’s website a list of all books available to students in libraries operated by the school district. 

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding the inspection of instructional materials.

Approved:  12-10-07  Reviewed:  12-14-09, 5-8-17  Revised: 12-13-22, 12-20-23

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:24

605.3 - Objection to Instructional and Library Materials

605.3 - Objection to Instructional and Library Materials

 

605.3

 

OBJECTION TO INSTRUCTIONAL AND LIBRARY MATERIALS

Members of the school district community may object to the instructional and library materials utilized in the school district and ask for their use to be reconsidered.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations for reconsideration of instructional materials.  Information related to the process for reconsideration of instructional and library materials will be made available on the District’s website.

Parents/guardians of students enrolled in the school district have the ability to request that their student not be able to access certain instructional materials or check out certain library materials.  For purposes of prohibiting access to instructional materials, Iowa law has defined instructional materials to mean either printed or electronic textbooks and related core materials that are written and published primarily for use in elementary school and secondary school instruction and are required by a state educational agency or district for use by students in the student’s classes by the teacher of record.  Instructional materials does not include lesson plans

Approved                    Reviewed:  12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17                              Revised:  12-08-03,12-13-22, 12-20-23

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:17

605.3E1 - Instructions to the Reconsideration Committee

605.3E1 - Instructions to the Reconsideration Committee

The policy of this school district related to selection of learning materials states that any member of the school district community may formally challenge instructional and library materials used in the school district's education program.  This policy allows those persons in the school district and the community who are not directly involved in the selection of materials to make their own opinions known.  The task of the reconsideration committee is to make an informed recommendation on the challenge.  The meetings of the committee may be subject to the open meetings law.

The most critical component of the reconsideration process is the establishment and maintenance of the committee's credibility in the community.  For this purpose, the committee is composed of a combination of community members and licensed employees as detailed in board regulations.  The community should not, therefore, infer that the committee is biased or is obligated to uphold prior professional decisions.

The reconsideration process, the task of this committee, is just one part of the selection continuum.  Material is purchased to meet a need. It is reviewed and examined, if possible, prior to purchase. It is periodically reevaluated through updating, discarding or re-examination.  The committee must be ready to acknowledge that an error in selection may have been made despite this process.  Librarians and school district employees regularly read great numbers of reviews in the selection process and occasional errors are possible.

In reconsidering challenged materials, the role of the committee, and particularly the chairperson, is to produce a climate for meaningful discussion of disparate views.   The committee should begin by finding items of agreement, keeping in mind that the larger the group participating, the greater the amount of information available and, therefore, the greater the number of possible approaches to the problem.

The committee may, at its discretion, hear an oral presentation from the complainant to the committee to expand and elaborate on the complaint.  The committee may listen to the complainant, to those with special knowledge, and any other interested persons.  In these discussions, the committee should be aware of relevant social pressures which are affecting the situation.  Individuals who may try to dominate or impose a decision must not be allowed to do so. Minority viewpoints expressed by groups or individuals must be heard and observers must be made to feel welcome. It is important that the committee create a calm, nonvolatile environment in which to deal with a potentially volatile situation.  To this end, the complainant will be kept informed of the progress of the complaint.

The committee will listen to the views of all interested persons before making recommendations.  In deliberating its recommendation, the committee should remember that the school system must be responsive to the needs, tastes, and opinions of the community it serves.  Therefore, the committee must distinguish between broad community sentiment and attempts to impose personal standards.  The deliberations should concentrate on the appropriateness of the material.  The question to be answered by the committee is, "Is the material appropriate for its designated audience at this time?"

The committee's final recommendation will be (1) to remove the challenged material from the total school environment, (2) to take no removal action or (3) to agree on a limitation of the educational use of the materials.

The committee chairperson will instruct the secretary to convey the committee's recommendation to the office of the superintendent.  The recommendation should detail the rationale on which it was based.  A letter will be sent to the complainant outlining the outcome.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:19

605.3E2 - Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Request Form

605.3E2 - Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Request Form

Request for reevaluation of printed or multimedia material to be submitted to the superintendent.

REVIEW INITIATED BY:                                        DATE:   ____________________________   

Name::  ______________________________________________________________________           

Address:  _____________________________________________________________________            

City/State:  _________________   Zip Code:  _____________   Telephone:  ________________

School(s) in which item is used:  ___________________________________________________

Relationship to school (parent, student, citizen, etc.):  __________________________________

BOOK OR OTHER PRINTED MATERIAL IF APPLICABLE:

Author:  ________________________   Hardcover ______ Paperback  ______  Other  ______   

Title:  ________________________________________________________________________

Publisher (if known):  ___________________________________________________________

Date of Publication:  ____________________________________________________________

MULTIMEDIA MATERIAL IF APPLICABLE:

Title:  ________________________________________________________________________                                                                                                                                                                                   

Producer (if known) :  ___________________________________________________________

Type of material (website, online resource, filmstrip, motion picture, etc.):  _____________________________________                                                                                                           

PERSON MAKING THE REQUEST REPRESENTS: (circle one)

Self                  Group or Organization

Name of group:  ________________________________________________________________

 Address of Group:  _____________________________________________________________

  1. What brought this item to your attention?

________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

  1. To what in the item do you object? (please be specific; cite pages or frames, etc.)

________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

  1. In your opinion, what harmful effects upon students might result from use of this item?

________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

  1. Do you perceive any instructional value in the use of this item?

________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

  1. Did you review the entire item?  If not, what sections did you review?

________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

       6. Should the opinion of any additional experts in the field be considered?

            ______ yes      ______ no

If yes, please list specific suggestions:
 _______________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________

7.  To replace this item, do you recommend other material which you consider to be of equal or superior quality for the purpose intended?

             _________________________________________________________________________           
             _________________________________________________________________________

         8.   Do you wish to make an oral presentation to the Review Committee?

             _________________________________________________________________________           
             _________________________________________________________________________

______ Yes     (a) Please contact the superintendent

______  No     (b) Please be prepared at this time to indicate the approximate length of time your presentation will require. Although this is no guarantee that you will be allowed to present to the committee or that you will get your requested amount of time.

                                 ____________________________________________________  Minutes

 

_______________________________                      ____________________________________
Dated                                                                                              Signature

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:20

605.3E3 - Sample Letter to Individual Challenging Instructional or Library Materials

605.3E3 - Sample Letter to Individual Challenging Instructional or Library Materials

Dear:

We recognize your concern about the use of _______________________________ in our school district. The school district has developed procedures for selection of instructional and library materials but realizes that not everyone will agree with every selection made.

To help you understand the selection process, we are sending copies of the school district’s:

1.   Instructional goals and objectives,

2.   Instructional and Library Materials Selection policy statement, and,

3.   Procedure for reconsideration of instructional materials.

If you are still concerned after you review this material, please complete the Reconsideration Request Form and return it to me. You may be assured of prompt attention to your request. If I have not heard from you within one week, we will assume you no longer wish to file a formal complaint.

 

Sincerely,

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:18

605.3E4 Request to Prohibit a Student From Checking Out Specific Library Materials

605.3E4 Request to Prohibit a Student From Checking Out Specific Library Materials

 

Code No.  605.3E4

REQUEST TO PROHIBIT A STUDENT FROM CHECKING OUT SPECIFIC LIBRARY MATERIALS

This request shall be submitted to the superintendent.  Please complete one form per student.

Request made by:                                                                Date:________________________

Name:________________________________________________________________________________

Address:______________________________________________________________________________

City:____________________________ State:___________ Zip Code:_______________

Telephone:_______________________

Name of Affected Student:________________________________________________________________

Requester’s Relationship to Student (must be parent/guardian):____________________________________

Book or Other Printed Material to Prohibit Student from Checking Out:

Author_____________________ Hardcover ____________ Paperback____________ Other __________

Title ___________________________________________________________________________________

Publisher (if known) ______________________________________________________________________

Date of Publication ________________________

Multimedia Material to Prohibit Student from Checking Out:

Title __________________________________________________________________________________

Producer (if known)_______________________________________________________________________

Type of Material (website, online resource,

filmstrip, motion picture etc.) _______________________________________________________________

_________________________ __________________________________________________

Dated Signature

 

 

 

 

 

 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 12/21/2023 - 12:29

605.3E5 Request to Prohibit a Student From Accessing Specific Instructional Materials

605.3E5 Request to Prohibit a Student From Accessing Specific Instructional Materials

REQUEST TO PROHIBIT A STUDENT FROM ACCESSING 

SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

 

Request to prohibit a student from checking out certain instructional materials to be submitted to the superintendent.  Please complete one form per student.

REQUEST INITIATED BY___________________________________   DATE _______________

Name___________________________________________________________________________

Address_________________________________________________________________________

City/State_____________________________  ZipCode _________  Telephone _______________

Name of affected Student___________________________________________________________

Requester’s Relationship to Student (must be parent/legal guardian)

BOOK OR OTHER PRINTED MATERIAL TO PROHIBIT STUDENT FROM ACCESSING:

Author Hardcover Paperback Other

Title

Publisher (if known)

Date of Publication

MULTIMEDIA MATERIAL TO PROHIBIT STUDENT FROM ACCESSING:

Title

Producer (if known)

Type of material (filmstrip, motion picture, etc.)

Dated Signature

Approved : 12-20-23                  Reviewed:                         Revised: 

awoods@gt.rati… Tue, 01/02/2024 - 13:03

605.3R1 - Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials

605.3R1 - Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials

A. A member of the school district community may raise an objection to instructional and library materials used in the school district's education program.  While the individuals recommending the selection of such material were duly qualified to make the selection and followed the proper procedure and observed the criteria for selecting such material, the school district must be ready to acknowledge that an error in selection may have been made despite this process.  School district employees regularly read great numbers of reviews in the selection process and occasional errors are possible.

1. The complainant will address the complaint at the lowest organizational level of licensed staff.  Often this will be the classroom teacher.

2. The school district official or employee receiving a complaint regarding instructional or library materials will try to resolve the issue at the lowest organizational level.  The materials generally will remain in use pending the outcome of the reconsideration procedure.

a. The school district official or employee initially receiving a complaint will explain to the individual the school district’s selection procedure, criteria to be met by the instructional materials, and qualifications of those persons selecting the material.

b. The school district official or employee initially receiving a complaint will explain to the individual the role of the objected material in the education program, its intended educational purpose, and additional information regarding its use.  In the alternative, the employee may refer the individual to the media specialist who can identify and explain the use of the material.

c. The school district official or employee receiving the initial complaint will direct the complainant to complete the Request for Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Form, and notify the building level principal of receipt of the complaint within two school days after the reconsideration form is received.  School district officials will offer to assist the complainant in completing the form, but if a complainant refuses to complete the form, the complaint will be deemed invalid and no further action will be taken.

B. Request for Reconsideration

1. A member of the school district community may formally challenge instructional and library materials on the basis of appropriateness used in the school district's education program.  This procedure is for the purpose of considering the opinions of those persons in the school district and the community who are not directly involved in the selection process.

2. Each attendance center and the school district's central administrative office will keep on hand and make available Request for Reconsideration for Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Forms.

3. The individual will state the specific reason the instructional or library material is being challenged.  The Request for Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Form is signed by the individual and filed with the building principal.

4. The building principal will promptly file the objection with the superintendent for reevaluation.  

5. The superintendent will convene a reconsideration committee within two weeks of receipt of the Request for Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Form.

6.       The committee will make their recommendation to the superintendent within five school days of meeting.

7.       The superintendent will issue a decision related to the Reconsideration Request Form within five school days of receipt of the committee’s recommendation.  A copy of the superintendent’s decision will be provided to the complainant.

8.       An appeal of the superintendent’s decision may be filed with the board secretary within five days of the superintendent’s decision.  The board will determine whether to hear the appeal at the next regular meeting or within thirty days of the superintendent’s decision, whichever is later.  If the board elects to hear the appeal, the board will act to affirm, modify or reverse the decision of the superintendent.  The board’s decision will be communicated to the complainant. The board’s decision will be deemed final.

9. Generally, access to challenged instructional material will not be restricted during the reconsideration process.  However, in unusual circumstances, the instructional material may be removed temporarily by following the provisions of Section B.10.d. of this regulation.

10. The Reconsideration Committee

a. The reconsideration committee is made up of six members.

(1) One licensed employee designated annually, as needed, by the superintendent.

(2) One media specialist designated annually by the superintendent.

(3) One member of the administrative team designated annually by the superintendent.

(4) Three members of the community appointed annually, as needed, by the board.

b. The committee will select their chairperson and secretary.

c. The committee will meet at the request of the superintendent.

d. Special meetings may be called by the board to consider temporary removal of materials in unusual circumstances.  A recommendation for temporary removal will require a two-thirds vote of the committee.

e. The committee may be subject to applicable open meetings and public records laws.  Notice of the committee meeting is made public through appropriate communications methods as required by law.

f. The committee will receive the completed Reconsideration Request Form from the superintendent.

g. The committee will determine its agenda for the meeting which may include the following:

(1) Distribution of copies of the completed Reconsideration Request Form.

(2) An opportunity for the individual or a group spokesperson to talk about or expand on the Reconsideration Request Form.

(3) Distribution of reputable, professionally prepared reviews of the challenged instructional material if available.

(4) Distribution of copies of the challenged instructional material as available.

h. The committee will determine whether interested persons, including the individual filing the challenge, may have the opportunity to share their views.  The committee may request that individuals with special knowledge be present to give information to the committee. 

i. The committee's final recommendation may be to take no removal action, to remove the challenged material from the school district environment, or to limit the educational use of the challenged material.  The sole criterion for the final recommendation is the appropriateness of the material for its intended educational use.  The written final recommendation and its justification will be forwarded to the superintendent, the complainant, and the appropriate attendance center(s).

j. The individual filing the challenge is kept informed by the superintendent of the status of the reconsideration request throughout the reconsideration process.  The individual filing the challenge and known interested parties is given appropriate notice of meetings as required by law.

k. Following the superintendent’s decision with respect to the committee's recommendation, the individual may appeal the decision to the board for review.    

l. A recommendation to sustain a challenge will not be interpreted as a judgment of irresponsibility on the part of the individuals involved in the original selection or use of the material.

m. Requests to reconsider materials which have previously been reconsidered by the committee must receive approval of two-thirds of the committee members before the materials will again be reconsidered.

n. If necessary or appropriate in the judgment of the committee, the committee may consolidate related challenges or decline to hear multiple challenges to the same materials.  Generally, the committee will not hear subsequent challenges to the same materials within the same school year.

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:29

605.3E5 Request to Prohibit a Student From Accessing Specific Instructional Materials

605.3E5 Request to Prohibit a Student From Accessing Specific Instructional Materials

605.03E5

REQUEST TO PROHIBIT A STUDENT FROM ACCESSING 

SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

 

Request to prohibit a student from checking out certain instructional materials to be submitted to the superintendent.  Please complete one form per student.

REQUEST INITIATED BY___________________________________   DATE _______________

Name___________________________________________________________________________

Address_________________________________________________________________________

City/State_____________________________  ZipCode _________  Telephone _______________

Name of affected Student___________________________________________________________

Requester’s Relationship to Student (must be parent/legal guardian)

BOOK OR OTHER PRINTED MATERIAL TO PROHIBIT STUDENT FROM ACCESSING:

Author Hardcover Paperback Other

Title

Publisher (if known)

Date of Publication

MULTIMEDIA MATERIAL TO PROHIBIT STUDENT FROM ACCESSING:

Title

Producer (if known)

Type of material (filmstrip, motion picture, etc.)

Dated Signature

Approved : 12-20-23                  Reviewed:                         Revised: 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 12/21/2023 - 13:53

605.4 - Technology and Instructional Materials

605.4 - Technology and Instructional Materials

The board supports the use of innovative methods and the use of technology in the delivery of the education program.  The board encourages employees to investigate economical ways to utilize multi-media, computers, electronic devices, and other technologies as a part of the curriculum.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a plan for the use of technology in the curriculum and to evaluate it annually.  The superintendent will report the results of the evaluation and make a recommendation to the board annually regarding the use of technology in the curriculum.

 

 

Approved:  12-10-07                         
Reviewed:  023-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-0-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  12-13-22                                                                                                                                                                                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:13

605.5 - School Library

605.5 - School Library

 

SCHOOL LIBRARY 

The school district will maintain a school library in each building for use by employees and by students during the school day.

Materials for the libraries will be acquired consistent with all applicable laws and  board policy, "Instructional Materials Selection."  The school district shall provide access to all parents and guardians of students enrolled in the school district an online catalog of all books available to students in the school libraries.  This access will be displayed on the school district’s website.  Any challenges to library materials will be handled following the process for handling challenges to instructional and library materials as established in board policy.  

It is the responsibility of the principal of the building in which the school library is located to oversee the use of materials in the library.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop procedures for the selection and replacement of both library and instructional materials, for the acceptance of gifts, and for the weeding of library and instructional materials.

Approved:  12-10-07     Reviewed:  01-12-04, 02-13-07,12-14-09, 05-08-17      Revised:  12-13-22, 12-20-23

 

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:12

605.6 - Appropriate Use of School District Technology, Network Systems, and Internet Access

605.6 - Appropriate Use of School District Technology, Network Systems, and Internet Access

The board is committed to making available to students and staff members access to a wide range of electronic learning facilities, technology (including, but not limited to, computers, tablets, and hand held devices), equipment, software, network systems, and internet access.  The goal in providing this technology and access is to support the educational objectives and mission of the school district and to promote resource sharing, innovation, problem solving, and communication.  The school district’s technology, network, and/or internet access is not a public access service or a public forum.  The school district has the right to place reasonable restrictions on the material accessed and/or posted through the use of its technology, network, and/or internet access, including the use of personal technology brought into the school district by students and staff and the ability of students and staff to access the school district’s network systems and internet access using personal technology.

The school district’s technology, network systems, and internet access shall be available to all students and staff within the school district.  However, access is a privilege, not a right.  Each student and staff member must have a signed acceptable use agreement on file prior to using the school district’s technology, network systems, and internet access.  The amount of time and type of access available for each student and staff member may be limited by the school district’s technology and the demands for the use of the school district’s technology.  Even if students have not been given access to and/or use of the school district’s technology, network systems, and the internet, they may still be exposed to information from the school district’s technology, network systems, and/or the internet in guided curricular activities at the discretion of their teachers.

Every item of technology in the school district having internet access shall not be operated unless internet access from the technology is subject to a technology protection measure (i.e. filtering software).  The technology protection measure employed by the school district shall be designed and operated with the intent to ensure that students are not accessing inappropriate sites that have visual depictions that include obscenity, child pornography or are otherwise harmful to minors.  The technology protection measure may only be disabled for an adult’s use if such use is for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

The technology coordinator may close a user account at any time as required and administrators, faculty, and staff may request the technology coordinator to deny, revoke or suspend user accounts.  Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with appropriate use may be denied access to the school district’s technology, the school district’s network systems, and/or the school district’s internet access.  Students and staff members will be instructed, at a minimum, on an annual basis by the school district’s technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel on the appropriate use of the school district’s technology, network systems, and internet access.

The use of the school district’s technology, network systems, and internet access shall be for educational purposes only.  Students and staff members shall only engage in appropriate, ethical, and legal utilization of the school district’s technology, network systems, and internet access.  Student and staff member use of the school district’s technology, network systems, and internet access shall also comply with all school district policies and regulations.  The following rules provide guidance to students and staff for the appropriate use of the school district’s technology, network systems, and internet access.  Inappropriate use and/or access will result in the restriction and/or termination of the privilege of access to and use of the school district’s technology, network systems, and internet access and may result in further discipline for students up to and including expulsion and/or other legal action and may result in further discipline for staff members up to and including termination of employment and/or other legal action.  The school district’s administration will determine what constitutes inappropriate use and their decision will be final.  Inappropriate use includes, but is not limited to:

*          Making or disseminating offensive or harassing statements or using offensive or harassing language including disparagement of others based on age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status or familial status.

*          Swearing or using vulgarities or any other inappropriate language.

*          Failing to be polite and/or not following the same privacy, ethical, educational, and other considerations observed regarding other forms of communication.

*          Accessing, creating or disseminating any material that is obscene, libelous, indecent, vulgar, profane or lewd; any material regarding products or services that are inappropriate for minors including products or services that the possession and/or use of by minors is prohibited by law; any material that constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses others; and/or any material that presents a clear and present likelihood that, either because of its content or the manner of distribution, will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities, will cause the commission of unlawful acts or will cause the violation of lawful school regulations.

*          Disseminating or soliciting sexually oriented messages or images.

*          Transmitting personal credit card information or other personal identification information, including home addresses or telephone numbers from any District item of technology.

*          Publishing personal or private information about yourself or others on the internet without prior written permission.

*          Reposting a message that was sent to you privately without permission of the person who sent the message.  Any information regarding students should be limited to the student’s first name and the initial of the student’s last name only.

*          Arranging or agreeing to meet in person with someone met online.

*          Using the District’s technology, network systems, and/or internet access to participate in illegal activities, including but not limited to, gambling, fraud, and pornography.

*          Creating and/or accessing personal social media accounts (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tik Tok, Snapchat) without prior permission from the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel.  Accessing school district-created, school district-sponsored or school district-related social media accounts to support the educational objectives and mission of the District is allowed and encouraged.

*          Using, possessing or attempting to make or distribute illegal/unauthorized copies of software or other digital media, including any software or other digital media that has been downloaded or copied or is otherwise in the user’s possession or is being used without the appropriate registration and/or license for the software or in violation of any applicable trademarks and/or copyrights, including the payment of any fees to the owner of the software or other digital media.

*          Altering, modifying, corrupting or harming in any way the software stored on the school district’s technology or network systems, including installing any software on school district technology or on the school district’s network systems or running any personal software from either floppy disk, CD-ROM, DVD, flash drives or other storage media or altering or modifying any data files stored on the school district’s technology or network systems without prior permission and supervision from the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel.

*          Downloading programs or files from the internet without prior permission from the school district’s technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel.  Any programs or files downloaded from the internet shall be strictly limited only to those that the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel have approved for download.

*          Using encryption software from any access point within the school district.

*          Accessing the internet from school district technology using a non-school district internet, e-mail or social network account.

*          Sharing personal user account information with anyone or leaving your account open or unattended.

*          Accessing the school district’s technology or network systems or the school district’s internet connection from a non-school district owned technology without prior authorization from the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel.

*          Using an instant messenger service or program, internet relay chat or other forms of direct electronic communication (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tik Tok, Snapchat) or entering a chat room while using the school district’s technology, network systems, and/or the school district’s internet access.

*          Disabling, circumventing or attempting to disable or circumvent filtering software.

*          Playing non-educational games or running programs that are not related to the school district’s educational program.

*          Vandalizing the school district’s technology or its network systems, including, but not limited to, any attempt to harm, modify, deface or destroy physical equipment or the functionality of the equipment or the network and any attempt to harm or destroy data stored on the school district’s technology or network or the data of another user.  All users are expected to immediately report any problems or vandalism of technology equipment or network systems to the administration, the technology coordinator or the instructor responsible for the equipment or network.

*          Committing or attempting to commit any act that disrupts the operation of the school district’s technology or network systems or any network connected to the internet, including, but not limited to, the use or attempted use or possession of viruses or worms or participation in hacking or other unlawful/inappropriate activities on line.  Users must report any security breaches or system misuse to the administration or technology coordinator.

*         Demonstrating any security or other network problems to other users; giving passwords to other users for any reason; and/or using another individual's account. 

*          Attempting to log on to any device as a system administrator.

*          Using the network in such a way to cause a disruption in the use of the network by other users or wasting system resources (e.g. listening to internet radio, printing web pages without prior permission from the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel, staying on the network longer than is necessary to obtain needed information).

*          Using the school district’s technology, network systems, and/or internet access for any commercial or for-profit purposes, personal or private business, (including but not limited to shopping or job searching), product advertisement or political lobbying.

*          Using the school district’s technology, network systems, and/or internet access, to download, transmit, and/or disseminate any material in violation of any federal or state law, copyrighted material, obscene material, hate literature, material protected by trade secret, viruses and/or worms, offensive material, spam e-mails, any threatening or harassing materials, and/or any material that will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities.  If a user encounters potentially inappropriate information, the user shall immediately terminate contact with such information and notify the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel of the contact with inappropriate information.

*          Plagiarizing information accessed through the school district’s technology, network systems, and/or the internet.  Students and staff shall obtain permission from appropriate parties prior to using copyrighted material that is accessed through the school district’s technology, network systems, and/or the internet.

Although reasonable efforts will be made to make sure students will be under supervision while on the network, it is not possible to constantly monitor individual students and what they are accessing on the network.  Some students may encounter information that may not be of educational value and/or may be inappropriate.  If a student encounters such information, the student should terminate access to the information immediately and notify supervisory personnel or other appropriate personnel of what occurred.

Students will be able to access the school district’s technology and network systems, including use of the internet, through their teachers and/or other appropriate supervisors.  Students will be allowed to use e-mail under very specific, limited educational circumstances.  If a student has an electronic mail address that has been set up outside of school, the student will not be permitted to access that e-mail account or use that address to send and receive mail at school.

Parents will be required to sign a permission form to allow their students to access the school district’s technology, network systems, and the internet.  Students and staff members will sign a form acknowledging they have read and understand the school district’s policies and regulations regarding appropriate use of the school district’s technology and network systems, that they will comply with the policies and regulations, and understand the consequences for violation of the policy or regulations.  Prior to publishing any student work and/or pictures on the internet, the school district will obtain written permission from the student’s parents to do so.

The school district has the right, but not the duty, to monitor any and all aspects of its technology, network systems, and internet access including, but not limited to, monitoring sites students and staff visit on the internet and reviewing e-mail.  The administration and the technology coordinator shall have both the authority and right to examine all technology and internet activity including any logs, data, e-mail, storage and/or other technology related records of any user.  The use of e-mail is limited to school district and educational purposes only.  Students and staff waive any right to privacy in anything they create, store, send, disseminate or receive on the school district’s technology and network systems, including the internet.

No warranties, expressed or implied, are made by the school district for the technology and internet access being provided.  Although the school district has taken measures to implement and maintain protection against the presence of viruses, spyware, and malware on the school district’s technology, network systems, and internet access, the school district cannot and does not warranty or represent that the school district’s technology, network systems or internet access will be secure and free of viruses, spyware or malware at all times.  The school district, including its officers and employees, will not be responsible for any damages including, but not limited to, the loss of data, delays, non-deliveries, misdeliveries or service interruptions caused by negligence or omission.  Individual users are solely responsible for making backup copies of their data.  The school district is not responsible for the accuracy of information users access on the internet and is not responsible for any unauthorized charges students or staff members may incur as a result of their use of the school district’s technology, network systems, and/or internet access.  Any risk and/or damages resulting from information obtained from the school district’s technology, network systems, and/or internet access is assumed by and is the responsibility of the user.

Students, parents, and staff members may be asked from time to time to sign a new consent and/or acceptable use agreement to reflect changes and/or developments in the law or technology.  When students, parents, and staff members are presented with new consent and/or acceptable use agreements to sign, these agreements must be signed for students and/or staff to continue to have access to and use of the school district’s technology, network systems, and the internet.

The interpretation, application, and modification of this policy are within the sole discretion of the school district.  Any questions or issues regarding this policy should be directed to the superintendent, any building principal or the technology coordinator.  The board will review and update this policy as necessary.

 

 

Approved:  12-13-22                         
Reviewed:                                                             
Revised: 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:10

605.7 - Use of Information Resources

605.7 - Use of Information Resources

In order for students to experience a diverse curriculum, the board encourages employees to supplement their regular curricular materials with other resources.  In so doing, the board recognizes that federal law makes it illegal to duplicate copyrighted materials without authorization of the holder of the copyright, except for certain exempt purposes.  Severe penalties may be imposed for plagiarism, unauthorized copying or using of media, including, but not limited to, print, electronic, and web-based materials, unless the copying or using conforms to the fair use doctrine.  Under the fair use doctrine, unauthorized reproduction of copyrighted materials is permissible for such purposes as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship or research providing that all fair use guidelines are met. 

While the school district encourages employees to enrich the learning programs by making proper use of supplementary materials, it is the responsibility of employees to abide by the school district's copying procedures and obey the requirements of the law.  In no circumstances shall it be necessary for school district staff to violate copyright requirements in order to perform their duties properly.  The school district will not be responsible for any violations of the copyright law by employees or students.  Violation of the copyright law by employees may result in discipline up to, and including, termination.  Violation of the copyright law by students may result in discipline, up to and including, suspension or expulsion.

Parents or others who wish to record, by any means, school programs or other activities need to realize that even though the school district received permission to perform a copyrighted work does not mean outsiders can copy it and replay it.  Those who wish to do so should contact the employee in charge of the activity to determine what the process is to ensure the copyright law is followed.  The school district is not responsible for outsiders violating the copyright law or this policy.

Any employee or student who is uncertain as to whether reproducing or using copyrighted material complies with the school district's procedures or is permissible under the law should contact the principal, who will also assist employees and students in obtaining proper authorization to copy or use protected material when such authorization is required.

 

 

Approved:  12-10-07                         
Reviewed:  12-14-09, 5-8-17                         
Revised: 12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:07

605.7R1 - Use of Information Resources Regulation

605.7R1 - Use of Information Resources Regulation

605.7Rl

USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES REGULATION

Employees and students may make copies of copyrighted materials that fall within the following guidelines. Where there is reason to believe the material to be copied does not fall within these guidelines, prior permission shall be obtained from the publisher or producer with the assistance of the principal.  Employees and students who fail to follow this procedure may be held personally liable for copyright infringement and may be subject to discipline by the board.

Under the fair use doctrine, unauthorized reproduction of copyrighted materials is permissible for such purposes as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship or research.  Under the fair use doctrine, each of the following four standards must be met in order to use the copyrighted document:

Purpose and Character of the Use- The use must be for such purposes as teaching or scholarship.

Nature of the Copyrighted Work-The type of work to be copied.

Amount and Substantiality of the Portion Used- Copying the whole of a work cannot be considered fair use; copying a small portion may be if these guidelines are followed.

Effect of the Use Upon the Potential Market for or value of the Copyrighted Work - If resulting economic loss to the copyright holder can be shown, even making a single copy of certain materials may be an infringement, and making multiple copies presents the danger of greater penalties.

Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Material Reminders:

Materials on the Internet should be used with caution since they may, and likely are, copyrighted.

Proper attribution (author, title, publisher, place and date of publication) should always be given.

Notice should be taken of any alterations to copyrighted works, and such alterations should only be made for specific instructional objectives.

Care should be taken in circumventing any technological protection measures.  While materials copied pursuant to fair use may be copied after circumventing technological protections against unauthorized copying, technological protection measures to block access to materials may not be circumvented.

In preparing for instruction, a teacher may make or have made a single copy of:

A chapter from a book;

An article from a newspaper or periodical;

A short story, short essay or short poem; or,

A chart, graph, diagram, drawing, cartoon or picture from a book, periodical or newspaper.

A teacher may make multiple copies not exceeding more than one per pupil, for classroom use or discussion, if the copying meets the tests of brevity, spontaneity and cumulative effect set by the following guidelines.  Each copy must include a notice of copyright.

Brevity

o A complete poem, if less than 250 words and two pages long, may be copied; excerpts from longer poems cannot exceed 250 words;

o Complete articles, stories or essays of less than 2500 words or excerpts from prose works less than 1000 words or 10% of the work, whichever is less may be copied; in any event, the minimum is 500 words;

o Each numerical limit may be expanded to permit the completion of an unfinished line of a poem or prose paragraph;

o One chart, graph, diagram, drawing, cartoon or picture per book or periodical issue may be copied. Special works cannot be reproduced in full; this includes children's books combining poetry, prose or poetic prose.  Short special works may be copied up to two published pages containing not more than 10 percent of the work.

Spontaneity- Should be at the instance and inspiration of the individual teacher when there is not a reasonable length of time to request and receive permission to copy.

Cumulative Effect- Teachers are limited to using copied material for only one course for which copies are made.  No more than one short poem, article, story or two excerpts from the same author may be copied, and no more than three works can be copied from a collective work or periodical column during one class term. Teachers are limited to nine instances of multiple copying for one course during one class term.  Limitations do not apply to current news periodicals, newspapers, and current news sections of other periodicals.

Copying Limitations

Circumstances will arise when employees are uncertain whether or not copying is prohibited.  In those circumstances, the principal should be contacted.  The following prohibitions have been expressly stated in federal guidelines:

Reproduction of copyrighted material shall not be used to create or substitute for anthologies, compilations or collective works.

Unless expressly permitted by agreement with the publisher and authorized by school district action, there shall be no copying from copyrighted consumable materials such as workbooks, exercises, test booklets, answer sheets, and the like.

Employees shall not:

o Use copies to substitute for the purchase of books, periodicals, music recordings, consumable works such as workbooks, computer software or other copyrighted material. Copy or use the same item from term to term without the copyright owner's permission;

o Copy or use more than nine instances of multiple copying of protected material in any one term;

o Copy or use more than one short work or two excerpts from works of the same author in any one term;

o Copy or use protected material without including a notice of copyright.  The following is a satisfactory notice: NOTICE: THIS MATERIAL MAY BE PROTECTED  BY COPYRIGHT  LAW.

o Reproduce or use copyrighted  material at the direction of someone in higher authority or copy or use such material in emulation of some other teacher's use of copyrighted material without permission of the copyright owner.

o Require other employees or students to violate the copyright law or fair use guidelines.

Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Materials in the Library

A library may make a single copy or three digital copies of:

An unpublished work in its collection;

A published work in order to replace it because it is damaged, deteriorated,  lost or stolen, provided that an unused replacement cannot be obtained at a fair price.

A work that is being considered for acquisition, although use is strictly limited to that decision.  Technological protection measures may be circumvented for purposes of copying materials in order to make an acquisition decision.

A library may provide a single copy of copyrighted material to a student or employee at no more than the actual cost of photocopying.  The copy must be limited to one article of a periodical issue or a small part of other material, unless the library finds that the copyrighted work cannot be obtained elsewhere at a fair price. In the latter circumstance, the entire work may be copied.  In any case, the copy shall contain the notice of copyright and the student or staff member shall be notified that the copy is to be used only for private study, scholarship or research.  Any other use may subject the person to liability for copyright infringement.

Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Music or Dramatic Works

Teachers may:

Make a single copy of a song, movement or short section from a printed musical or dramatic work that is unavailable except in a larger work for purposes of preparing for instruction;

Make multiple copies for classroom use of an excerpt of not more than 10% of a printed musical work if it is to be used for academic purposes other than performance, provided that the excerpt does not comprise a part of the whole musical work which would constitute a performable unit such as a complete section, movement or song;

In an emergency, a teacher may make and use replacement copies of printed music for an imminent musical performance when the purchased copies have been lost, destroyed or are otherwise not available.

Make and retain a single recording of student performances of copyrighted material when it is made for purposes of evaluation or rehearsal;

Make and retain a single copy of excerpts from recordings of copyrighted musical works for use as aural exercises or examination questions; and,

Edit or simplify purchased copies of music or plays provided that the fundamental character of the work is not distorted.  Lyrics shall not be altered or added if none exist.

 

Performance by teachers or students of copyrighted musical or dramatic works is permitted without the authorization of the copyright owner as part of a teaching activity in a classroom or instructional setting.  The purpose shall be instructional rather than for entertainment.

Performances of nondramatic musical works that are copyrighted are permitted without the authorization of the copyright owner, provided that:

The performance is not for a commercial purpose;

None of the performers, promoters or organizers are compensated; and,

Admission fees are used for educational or charitable purposes only.

All other musical and dramatic performances require permission from the copyright owner.  Parents or others wishing to record a performance should check with the sponsor to ensure compliance with copyright.

Recording of Copyrighted Programs

Television programs, excluding news programs, transmitted by commercial and non-commercial  television stations for reception by the general public without charge may be recorded off-air simultaneously  with broadcast transmission (including simultaneous cable retransmission) and retained by a school district for a period not to exceed the first forty-five (45) consecutive calendar days after date of recording.  Upon conclusion of this retention period, all off-air recordings must be erased or destroyed immediately.   Certain programming such as that provided on public television may be exempt from this provision; check with the principal or the subscription database, e.g. united streaming.

Off-air recording may be used once by individual teachers in the course of instructional activities, and repeated once only when reinforcement is necessary, within a building, during the first 10 consecutive school days, excluding scheduled interruptions, in the 45 calendar day retention period. Off-air recordings may be made only at the request of and used by individual teachers, and may not be regularly recorded in anticipation of requests.  No broadcast program may be recorded off-air more than once at the request of the same teacher, regardless of the number of times the program may be broadcast.  A limited number of copies may be reproduced from each off-air recording to meet the legitimate needs of teachers.  Each additional copy shall be subject to all provisions governing the original recording.

After the first ten consecutive school days, off-air recordings may be used up to the end of the 45 calendar day retention period only for evaluation purposes, i.e., to determine whether or not to include the broadcast program in the teaching curriculum.  Permission must be secured from the publisher before the recording can be used for instructional purposes after the 10 day period.

 

Off-air recordings need not be used in their entirety, but the recorded programs may not be altered from their original content.  Off-air recordings may not be physically or electronically combined or merged to constitute teaching anthologies or compilations.   All copies of off-air recordings must include the copyright notice on the broadcast program as recorded.

Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Computer Software

School districts have a valid need for high-quality software at reasonable prices.  To assure a fair return to the authors of software programs, the school district shall support the legal and ethical issues involved in copyright laws and any usage agreements that are incorporated into the acquisition of software programs.  To this end, the following guidelines shall be in effect:

All copyright laws and publisher license agreements between the vendor and the school district shall be observed;

Staff members shall take reasonable precautions to prevent copying or the use of unauthorized copies on school district equipment;

A back-up copy shall be purchased, for use as a replacement when a program is lost or damaged.  If the vendor is not able to supply a replacement, the school district shall make a back-up copy that will be used for replacement purposes only;

A copy of the software license agreement shall be retained by the board secretary or superintendent's secretary; and,

A computer program may be adapted by adding to the content or changing the language.  The adapted program may not be distributed.

Fair Use Guidelines for Educational Multimedia

Students may incorporate portions of copyrighted materials in producing educational multimedia projects such as videos, power points, podcasts, and web sites for a specific course, and may perform, display or retain the projects.

Educators may perform or display their own multimedia projects to students in support of curriculum-based instructional activities.  These projects may be used:

In face-to-face instruction;

In demonstrations and presentations, including conferences;

In assignments to students;

For remote instruction if distribution of the signal is limited;

Over a network that cannot prevent duplication for fifteen days, after fifteen days a copy may be saved on-site only; or,

In their personal portfolios.

Educators may use copyrighted materials in a multimedia project for two years, after that permission must be requested and received.

The following limitations restrict the portion of any given work that may be used pursuant of fair use in an educational multimedia project:

Motion media: ten percent or three minutes, whichever is less;

Text materials: ten percent or 1,000 words, whichever is less;

Poetry: an entire poem of fewer than 250 words, but no more than three poems from one author or five poems from an anthology.  For poems of greater than 250 words, excerpts of up to 250 words may be used, but no more than three excerpts from one poet or five excerpts from an anthology;

Music, lyrics, and music-video: Up to ten percent, but no more than thirty seconds.  No alterations that change the basic melody or fundamental character of the work;

Illustrations, cartoons and photographs:  No more than five images by an artist, and no more than ten percent or fifteen images, whichever is less, from a collective work;

Numerical data sets: Up to ten percent or 2,500 field or cell entries, whichever is less;

Fair use does not include posting a student or teacher's work on the Internet if it includes portions of copyrighted materials.  Permission to copy shall be obtained from the original copyright holder(s) before such projects are placed online.  The opening screen of such presentations shall include notice that permission was granted and materials are restricted from further use.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:08

605.8 - Artificial Intelligence in the Educational Environment

605.8 - Artificial Intelligence in the Educational Environment

605.8 

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT

The district believes that to adequately prepare modern learners for the future, advances in technology should first be explored within the education environment.  At its most simple, generative artificial intelligence (AI) is automation based on association.  AI tools analyze large amounts of information and detect patterns using that information to draw a conclusion.  The AI tools then improve the conclusions drawn based upon additional data reviewed, patterns found, and prior conclusions drawn.  Generative AI for the education environment has the potential to automate classroom organizational tasks, enhance individualized student learning, teaching, assessment of student learning, and even enhance research and professional development for educators.

However, generative AI tools can be vulnerable to inaccuracy in some significant ways. AI tools can: have bias in how the tools detect patterns; detect patterns/draw conclusions based on inaccurate data; and may not be fully accessible to students to differing abilities.  It is valuable for students to understand the potential uses and limitations of this imperfect technology in an educational environment where AI tools have been carefully selected and are monitored and reviewed within appropriate guidelines.  For this reason, human oversight and decision making must lead the selection, use, and review of AI tools in the education environment.  

Only humans can verify the accuracy of AI tools and apply proper context to any information generated from them. AI tools will never be the sole determining factor used to make decisions related to student learning, assessment, academic integrity, and behavior.  All decisions must be made by appropriate licensed staff and based upon a holistic analysis of available evidence. 

Privacy must be protected when using generative AI tools.  AI draws conclusions based on analysis of data.  No personally identifiable information about other students or staff will be shared with AI tools, without prior written consent from the parent or guardian of the student, or from the student/staff if applicable. Permission must be granted prior to students using open-source AI tools that may share information outside the tool itself, and with any entities outside the control of the privacy terms and conditions of the AI tool.

Use of AI tools by students and staff will be at all times appropriate to the educational environment and subject to all applicable laws, regulations and policies.  This includes but is not limited to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, Children’s Internet Protection Act, and the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule; as well as district policies on student conduct, copyright protections, student records, personnel records, bullying and harassment, and staff/student expression.  

The Superintendent, working in collaboration with relevant staff, will develop regulations necessary to carry out the intent of this policy.

 

Approved:  07-17-24 Reviewed: Revised: 

awoods@gt.rati… Fri, 07/19/2024 - 08:18

605.8R1- Artificial Intelligence in the Educational Environment-Regulations

605.8R1- Artificial Intelligence in the Educational Environment-Regulations

Selection of AI tools

AI tools will be vetted by relevant stakeholders including, but not limited to the district’s IT staff and, when related to student learning or assessment, by the Curriculum Director.  Decisions to use AI tools should be focused on:

  • Protection of students: Any AI tools used in the district must comply with the requirements to safeguard students from accessing material that is obscene, child pornography and harmful to minors. 
  • Privacy:  Personally identifiable information of students will not be shared without necessary written consents.  Further, any AI tools utilized must meet the requirements of the School Official exemption listed in FERPA, and described in policy 712.
  • Accessibility: Is the tool available to students of all abilities?  If not, what comparable alternatives will be offered to ensure an equitable learning environment for all students?
  • Accuracy: To the extent reasonable, the AI tool should be both reliable and unbiased in its pattern recognition, and data used by the tool should be verified for accuracy.
  • Transparent and Interruptible: Student use of AI tools must be able to be monitored by licensed staff to safeguard the appropriateness of the learning experience for the student and monitor for accuracy of the AI tool.  

Academic Integrity

Use of AI in research and graded work by students must include proper source citations.  Copyright protections must be strictly adhered to.  Students who fail to comply with these requirements may face discipline as stated in relevant district policies.

Appropriate Use

Prior to using AI tools, classroom teachers will clearly state how AI tools may be used to engage in and complete educational tasks and assignments.  Classroom teachers will establish appropriate parameters for AI tool usage and will monitor student use of AI tools as appropriate.  

Prohibited Uses

Students will not use AI tools to access or create information that is discriminatory, constitutes bullying or harassment, shares confidential or personally identifiable information of others, or access/create material that is harmful to minors, obscene, or child pornography.  Any violation of this regulation will be treated as a violation of relevant district policies and may be subject to loss of access to the AI tool, and further discipline.

 

 

awoods@gt.rati… Fri, 07/19/2024 - 08:19

606 - Instructional Arrangements

606 - Instructional Arrangements dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:00

606.1 - Class Size - Class Grouping

606.1 - Class Size - Class Grouping

It shall be within the sole discretion of the board to determine the size of classes and to determine whether class grouping shall take place. The board shall review the class sizes annually.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board on class size based upon the financial condition of the school district, the qualifications of and number of licensed employees, and other factors deemed relevant to the board.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  12-13-22                                                    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:06

606.2 - School Ceremonies and Observances

606.2 - School Ceremonies and Observances

The school district will continue school ceremonies and observances which have become a tradition and a custom of the education program.         These include, but are not limited to, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and observance of legal holidays, such as Christmas, Veteran's Day, Halloween, Easter, New Years, Thanksgiving, Labor Day, Memorial Day, and Fourth of July, by programs and performances.  Such ceremonies or observances shall have a secular purpose and shall not advocate or sponsor a particular religion.

The school district will provide and maintain a suitable flagstaff at each school site and raise the Iowa and United States flags each school day as weather conditions permit. The school district will display the United States flag and administer the Pledge of Allegiance in each 1st through 12th grade classroom on school days.

Students who do not wish to participate in these activities may be silent during the ceremony or observance or receive permission from the principal to be excused from the ceremony for religious reasons in compliance with board policy.

 

 

Approved: 07-01-92              
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:06

606.3 - Animals in the Classroom

606.3 - Animals in the Classroom

Live animals will not be allowed in school district facilities except under special circumstances and only for an educational purpose. Permission from the principal will be required of anyone wishing to bring an animal into school district facilities.  Appropriate supervision of animals is required when animals are brought into the school district facilities.

The person bringing the animal must furnish transportation for the animal brought to school. Animals will not be allowed to travel to and from the student's attendance center on school district transportation without prior approval from the principal.

It shall be the responsibility of the building principal to determine appropriate supervision of animals in the classroom.  This policy is not intended to address the use of service animals, assistive animals, therapy animals or emotional support animals on school district property.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17                                            
Revised:  12-13-22                                                

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:04

606.4 - Student Production of Materials and Services

606.4 - Student Production of Materials and Services

Materials and services produced by students at the expense of the school district shall be the property of the school district.     Materials and services produced by students at the student's expense, except for incidental expense to the school district, shall be the property of the student.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to determine incidental expense.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  12-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:04

606.5 - Student Field Trips and Excursions

606.5 - Student Field Trips and Excursions

The superintendent may authorize field trips and excursions when such events contribute to the achievement of education goals of the school district.  The school district will provide transportation for field trips and excursions within the state.  The school district will provide transportation for field trips and excursions outside the state if four criteria are met.  Field trips and excursions outside of the state that do not meet the four criteria will be made on alternate transportation.  The four criteria are:

  • The operation or trip may be directly connected with and contribute to the educational development of the students;
  • The operation must be sponsored by the school district and supervised by the school district authorities;
  • The trip must be considered an official school district function; and
  • The school district transportation vehicle must be transporting students, teachers, and a reasonable number of parents as chaperones.

In authorizing field trips and excursions, the superintendent shall consider the financial condition of the school district, the educational benefit of the activity, the inherent risks or dangers of the activity, and other factors deemed relevant by the superintendent.  Written parental permission will be required prior to the student's participation in field trips and excursions.

Field trips and excursions are to be arranged with the superintendent well in advance.  A detailed schedule and budget must be submitted by the employee.  The office will be responsible for obtaining a substitute teacher if one is needed. Following field trips and excursions, the teacher must turn in a written summary of the event.  This summary will be included in the annual report which will be filed with the superintendent at the end of the school year.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  02-14-95, 12-13-22                                    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:00

606.6 - School Assembly

606.6 - School Assembly

The building principal may authorize programs or activities in the form of a school assembly when such events contribute to the achievement of education goals of the school district.  School assemblies shall comply with the school calendar.

In authorizing a school assembly, the building principal shall consider the financial condition of the school district, the educational benefit of the activity, the inherent risks or dangers of the activity, and other factors as the building principal or superintendent consider relevant.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to inform the board of the approved school assemblies.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  02-14-95, 01-12-98, 12-11-00, 01-12-04, 02-13-04, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  12-13-22                                                     

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:03

607 - Instructional Services

607 - Instructional Services dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 14:53

607.1 - Student Guidance and Counseling Program

607.1 - Student Guidance and Counseling Program

The board will provide a student guidance and counseling program.  The guidance counselor will be certified with the Iowa Department of Education and hold the qualifications required by the board.  The guidance and counseling program will service grades kindergarten through twelve.  The program will assist students with their personal, educational, and career development.  The program is coordinated with the education program and involve licensed employees.

 

 

Approved:  01-14-02             
Reviewed:  01-12-04, 02-13-07, 12-14-09, 5-8-17
Revised:  12-13-22                                                    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 15:02

607.2 - Student Health Services

607.2 - Student Health Services

Health services are an integral part of comprehensive school improvement, assisting all students to increase learning, achievement, and performance.  Health services coordinate and support existing programs to assist each student in achievement of an optimal state of physical, mental, and social well being.  Student health services ensure continuity and create linkages between school, home, and community service providers.  The school district's needs and resources determine the linkages.

 

Except in emergent care situations or child abuse assessments, the school district will not administer invasive physical examinations or health screenings of a student that are not required by state or federal law without first obtaining the written consent of the student’s parent or guardian.

 

  • Emergent care situation means a sudden or unforeseen occurrence of onset of a medical or behavioral condition that could result in serious injury or harm to a student or others in the event immediate medical attention is not provided.  Emergent care situation includes the need to screen a student or others for symptoms or exposures during an outbreak or public health event of concern as designated by the department of public health.  
  • Invasive physical examination means any medical examination that involves the exposure of private body parts or any act during such examination that includes incision, insertion, or injection into the body, but does not include a hearing, vision or scoliosis screening.
  • Student health screening means an intentionally planned, periodic process to identify if students may be at risk for a health concern and to determine if a referral for an in-depth assessment is needed to consider appropriate health services.  Student health screening does not include an episodic, individual screening done in accordance with professional licensed practice.

 

The superintendent, in conjunction with the school nurse or public health nurse, will develop administrative regulations implementing this policy.  The superintendent will provide a written report on the role of health services in the education program to the board annually.

Approved:  01-14-02

Reviewed: 01-12-04, 02-13-07,12-14-09, 5-8-17, 8-21-24

Revised:  1-13-03, 12-13-22,12-20-23

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 14:53

607.2R1 - Student Health Services Regulation

607.2R1 - Student Health Services Regulation

 

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES REGULATION

 

Student Health Services Administrative Regulations

I. Student Health Services - Each school building may develop a customized student health services program within comprehensive school improvement based on its unique needs and resources.  Scientific advances, laws, and school improvement necessitate supports to students with health needs to receive their education program.

Supports to improve student achievement include:

  • qualified health personnel

  • school superintendent, school nurse, and school health team working collaboratively

  • family and community involvement

  • optimal student health services program with commitment to its continuing improvement

Components provided within a coordinated school health program include:

*health services *health education

*nutrition *physical education and activity

*healthy, safe environment *counseling, psychological, and social services

*staff wellness *family and community involvement

Student health services are provided to identify health needs; facilitate access to health care; provide for health needs related to educational achievement; promote health, well-being, and safety; and plan to develop the health service programs.

 

  1. Student Health Services Essential Functions

  1. Identify student health needs;

  1. Provide individual initial and annual health assessments

  2. Provide needed health screenings

  3. Maintain and update confidential health records

  4. Communicate (written, oral, electronic) health needs as consistent with confidentiality laws

  1. Facilitate student access to physical and mental health services:

  1. Link students to community resources and monitor follow through

  2. Promote increased access and referral to primary health care financial resources such as Medicaid, HAWK-I, social security, and community health clinics

  3. Encourage appropriate use of health care

  1. Provide for student health needs related to educational achievement:

  1. Manage chronic and acute illnesses

  2. Provide special health procedures and medication including delegation, training, and supervision of qualified designated school personnel

  3. Develop, implement, evaluate, and revise individual health plans (IHPs) for all students with special health needs according to mandates in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Rehabilitation Act (Section 504), and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

  4. Provide urgent and emergency care for individual and group illness and injury

  5. Prevent and control communicable disease and monitor immunizations

  6. Promote optimal mental health

  7. Promote a safe school facility and a safe school environment

  8. Participate in and attend team meetings as a team member and health consultant

D. Promote student health, well-being, and safety to foster healthy living:

  1. Provide developmentally appropriate health education and health counseling for individuals and groups

  2. Encourage injury and disease prevention practices

  3. Promote personal and public health practices

  4. Provide health promotion and injury and disease prevention education

E. Plan and develop the student health services program collaboratively with the superintendent, school nurse or school health team

  1. Gather and interpret data to evaluate needs and performance

  2. Establish health advisory council and school health team

  3. Develop health procedures and guidelines

  4. Collaborate with staff, families, and community

  5. Maintain and update confidential student school health records

  6. Coordinate program with all school health components

  7. Coordinate with school improvement

  8. Evaluate and revise the health service program to meet changing needs

  9. Organize scheduling and direct health services staff

  10. Develop student health services annual status report

  11. Coordinate information and program delivery within the school district and between school district and major constituents

  12. Provide health services by qualified health professionals to effectively deliver services, including multiple levels of school health expertise such as registered nurses, physicians, and advanced registered nurse practitioners

  13. Provide for professional development for school district health services staff

 

  1. Expanded Health Services

These additional health services address learning barriers and the lack of access to health care.  Examples include school-based services in the school, school-linked services connected to the school, primary care, mental health, substance abuse, and dental health.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 12/21/2022 - 14:55

700 - NON-INSTRUCTIONAL OPERATIONS & BUSINESS SERVICES

700 - NON-INSTRUCTIONAL OPERATIONS & BUSINESS SERVICES Jen@iowaschool… Tue, 11/23/2021 - 07:55

700 - Purpose of Non-Instructional and Business Services

700 - Purpose of Non-Instructional and Business Services

     

This series of the board policy manual is devoted to the goals and objectives for the school district's non-instructional services and business operations that assist in the delivery of the education program.  These non-instructional services include, but are not limited to, transportation, the school lunch program, and financial services.  The board, as it deems necessary, will provide additional non-instructional services to support the education program.  To the extent a group of employees has a recognized collective bargaining unit, the provisions of the master contract regarding such topics shall prevail.

It shall be the goal of the board to provide non-instructional services and to conduct its business operations in an efficient manner.

 

Approved:  7-1-92 

 Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18

Revised:  9-20-17, 9-13-22, 9-18-24 

 

 

                                                 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 20:00

701 - Financial Accounting System

701 - Financial Accounting System dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:54

701.1 - Fiscal Year

701.1 - Fiscal Year

The school district fiscal year shall begin July 1 and end June 30 each year. The budget shall state the expenditures for the fiscal year, and it shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to operate the education program within the budget.

It shall be the responsibility of the board to ensure the budget is managed effectively.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18 
Revised: 9-13-22                                                       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 20:01

701.2 - Depository of Funds

701.2 - Depository of Funds

Each year at its annual meeting, the board shall designate by resolution the name and location of the Iowa located financial depository institution or institutions to serve as the official school district depository or depositories.  The board will also designate the maximum amount which may be kept on deposit in each bank.  This amount will be designated the first time a new depository is identified, and will be reviewed at least once every five (5) years or when an increase or additional depository is needed. The amount stated in the resolution must be for all depositories and include all of the school district's funds.

It shall be the responsibility of the board secretary to include the resolution in the minutes of the meeting.

Approved:  7- 01-92

Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18

Revised: 9-13-22, 07-17-24

 

 

                                                              

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:58

701.3 - Transfer of Funds

701.3 - Transfer of Funds

                                            

When the necessity for a fund has ceased to exist, the balance may be transferred to another fund or account by resolution of the board.  School district monies received without a designated purpose may be transferred in this manner.  School District monies received for a specific purpose or upon vote of the people may only be transferred, by board resolution when the purpose for which the monies were received has been completed.  Voter approval is required to transfer monies to the general fund from the capital projects fund and debt service fund.

If all requirements for district use of funds under the Preschool Foundation Aid, Professional Development Supplement, Home School Assistance Program, Teacher Leadership Supplement or any discontinued fund teacher  have been met and funds remain unexpended and unobligated at the end of the fiscal year, the district may transfer all or a portion of remaining funds by passage of a board resolution into the district’s flexibility account in accordance with law.  Before the expenditure of amounts in the flexibility account, the district shall publish notice of the time, date, and place of a public hearing on the proposed resolution approving said expenditures. The board must find and certify that the statutory requirements of each original source of funds have been met before adopting the resolution approving the expenditures. The district will present a copy of the signed board resolution to the Department of Education.

The District may transfer by board resolution from the general fund to the student activity fund an amount needed to purchase or refurbish protective and safety equipment required for any extracurricular interscholastic athletic contest or competition sponsored or administered by the Iowa High School Athletic Association of Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union.

If the before and after school program exceeds the amount necessary to operate the program, the excess amount may, following a public hearing, be transferred by resolution of the board of directors of the school corporation for deposit in the general fund of the school corporation to be used for school district general fund purposes. The district will present a copy of the signed board resolution to the Department of Education.

Beginning in FY 2024, unexpended and unobligated dollars that remain at the end of a fiscal year in addition to ongoing revenues may be transferred to the Teacher Salary Supplement (TSS) program from Professional Development Supplement (PDS), Talented and Gifted (TAG), and Teacher Leadership Supplement (TLS) without board action.

The district may choose to request approval from the School Budget Review Committee to transfer funds to make a program whole, prior to its elimination. 

Temporary transfers (loans) of funds are permitted between funds but must be repaid to the originating fund, with interest, by Oct. 1 following the end of the fiscal year. 

It shall be the responsibility of the board secretary to make recommendations to the board regarding transfers and to provide supporting evidence for the transfer.

Approved:  7-1-92

Reviewed:  11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 06-11-12, 5-14-18

Revised: 9-13-22, 07-17-24  

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 20:00

701.4 - Accounting Practices

701.4 - Accounting Practices

 701.4

 

ACCOUNTING PRACTICES

 

School district accounting practices will follow state and federal laws and regulations, generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and the uniform financial accounting system provided by the Iowa Department of Education.  As advised by the school district’s auditor, determination of liabilities and assets, prioritization of expenditures of governmental funds, and provisions for accounting disclosures shall be made in accordance with governmental accounting standards.

Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No. 54 identifies the order of spending unrestricted resources applying the highest level of classification of fund balance - restricted, committed, assigned, and unassigned - while honoring constraints on the specific purposes for which amounts in those fund balances can be spent.  A formal board action is required to establish, modify, and/or rescind a committed fund balance.  The resolution will state the exact dollar amount.  In the event the board chooses to make changes or rescind the committed fund balance, formal board action is required.

The Board authorizes the business manager to assign amounts to a specific purpose in compliance with GASB 54.  An assigned fund balance should also be reported in the order of spending unrestricted resources, but is not restricted or committed.  

Fund Balance Reporting

Financial reporting for the balances in the District’s governmental funds is based on Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement 54, Fund Balance Reporting and Governmental Fund Types Definitions.  Fund balance refers to the difference between assets and liabilities in the governmental funds balance sheets.  GASB 54 established a hierarchy that is based on “the extent to which the government is bound to honor constraints on the specific purpose for which the amounts in those funds can be spent.”

The governmental funds can have up to five fund balance classifications.  The classifications are defined below from most to least restrictive.

Nonspendable Fund Balance includes amounts that cannot be spent because they are either not in spendable form, or legally or contractually required to be maintained intact.  This includes items not expected to be converted to cash, including inventories and prepaid expenses.  It may also include other property acquired for resale and the principal of a permanent fund.

Restricted Fund Balance should be reported when constraints placed on the use of resources are either externally imposed by creditors, grantors, contributors, or law or regulations of other governments; or imposed by law through constitutional provisions or enabling legislation.  This includes “categorical balances.”

Committed Fund Balance reflects specific purposes pursuant to constraints imposed by formal action of the board. Such constraints can only be removed or changed by board action.

Assigned Fund Balance reflects amounts that are constrained by the government’s intent to be used for specific purposes but meet neither the restricted nor committed forms of constraint.  Unless the amount is negative, the assigned fund balance is the residual classification for the governmental funds other than the general fund.  If the amount is negative, then the residual amount is shown as unassigned.

Unassigned Fund Balance is the residual classification for the general fund only.  As noted above, if a negative residual amount exists in other governmental funds then the amount is reported as unassigned.

 It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make recommendations to the board regarding fund balance designations.   

Approved:  10-10-11  Reviewed:  5-14-18 Revised:  9-13-22, 07-17-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:59

701.5 - Financial Records

701.5 - Financial Records

Code No.  701.5

 

FINANCIAL RECORDS

 

Financial records of the school district are maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as required or modified by law. School district monies are received and expended from the appropriate fund and/or account. The funds and accounts of the school district will include, but not be limited to:

Governmental Fund Type

General Fund  - This fund is the chief operating fund of the district. It is used to account for all financial resources except those accounted for and reported in another fund.

  • Special Revenue Fund - These funds account for the proceeds of specific revenue sources other than trusts or major capital projects, that are legally restricted or committed to expenditure for specified purposes other than debt service or capital projects.   
  1. Management Levy Fund
  2. Public Education and Recreation Levy Fund (PERL)
  3. Student activity Fund
  • Capital Projects Fund - These funds are used to account for financial resources to acquire or construct major capital facilities or other capital assets (other than those of proprietary funds and trust funds) and to account for revenues from SAVE.
  1. Physical Plant and Equipment Levy Fund (PPEL)
  2. Secure and Advanced Vision for Education (SAVE)
  • Debt Service Fund – This fund is used to account for the accumulation of resources for, and the payment of, general long-term debt principal and interest.  

Proprietary Fund Type – These funds account for operations of the school district operated similar to private business for which a fee is charged to external users for goods or services, or they account for the costs of providing goods and services provided by one department to other departments on a cost reimbursement basis.  

  • Enterprise Fund
  • School Nutrition Fund
  • Child Care Fund
  • Internal Service Fund
  • Community Education
  • Preschool (nonvoluntary, state)

Fiduciary Funds-These funds are used to account for monies or assets held by the school district on behalf of, or in trust for, another entity.   

  • Trust
  • Expendable Trust Funds
  • Nonexpendable Trust Funds
  • Pension Trust Funds
  • Custodial Funds 

Non-Fiduciary Scholarship Fund

  Account Groups- The groups are the accounting records for capital assets and long-term debt.

  • General capital assets account group
  • General long-term debt account group

  The board may establish other funds in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and may certify other taxes to be levied for the funds as provided by state law.  The status of each fund must be included in the annual report. 
  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to implement this policy and bring necessary changes in the maintenance of the school district's financial records to the attention of the board.

Approved:  9-11-17    Reviewed:  5-14-18 Revised:  9-20-17, 9-13-22, 07-17-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:54

701.6 Fiscal Management

701.6 Fiscal Management

FISCAL MANAGEMENT 

The Board recognizes its fiduciary responsibility to oversee the management of school district funds in keeping with the school district vision, mission and goals. To achieve this purpose, the board may engage in learning about the financial needs, operations and requirements of the district as appropriate for the board’s understanding of the district’s financial position. The Board also commits to engaging in annual financial goal setting for the district based upon measurable data and projections for the district. 

After the fiscal year has closed, the Superintendent or their designee will provide to the Board concise, timely, well organized financial data. The Board will exercise its oversight responsibilities by reviewing relevant PK-12 public education sector indicators to understand the financial trends of the district. 

The board will establish and review financial goals annually. The District will measure whether these goals were obtained as of June 30, but only after completion of the Certified Annual Report due September 15th each year. 

Providing the best possible educational experience for all students and meeting federal, state, and local academic goals for each student requires maximizing General Fund resources for use in the instructional program. The board may request from the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) additional modified spending authority (MSA) where it may be available for items such as: 

Special education deficit balances 

Advances to support increasing student enrollment 

Supports for students identified as English Learners 

At risk / dropout prevention programming 

Initial staffing associated with opening new buildings or programs 

Any other lawful purpose 

Any award of modified supplement amount will be levied as a cash reserve based on the recommendation of the superintendent/designee and approved by the Board of Education in keeping with the fiscal management performance measures provided for in district policy. 

Approved : 11-15-23 Reviewed: Revised:

awoods@gt.rati… Mon, 11/20/2023 - 09:39

701.6R1 Fiscal Management-Financial Metrics

701.6R1 Fiscal Management-Financial Metrics

701.6R1 

FISCAL MANAGEMENT - FINANCIAL METRICS 

The following relevant PK-12 public sector indicators will be provided to the Board annually to better understand the financial trends of the district. These indicators will be an accurate depiction as of June 30th of the preceding fiscal year and will depict at a minimum of five years of data. 

Total revenues and expenditures by fund and major sources; 

Financial Solvency Ratio - assigned plus unassigned fund balances divided by total revenue minus AEA flow through; 

Unspent Authorized Budget Ratio - amount of maximum spending authority left at year end after deducting the general fund expenditures incurred during the year; 

Unspent Authorized Balance Ratio Net of Restricted Fund Balances (Categorical Fund Balances) - amount of maximum spending authority left at year end after deducting both the general fund expenditures incurred during the year and the total restricted fund balances (categorical fund balances) at year end; 

Enrollment Trend - funding follows the student so it is important to understand district enrollment numbers; 

Staff costs as a percent of total general fund. 

Financial Projections 

Five-year financial projections of the general fund will be prepared and updated annually. The general fund is the operating fund of the district where the majority of salaries and benefits are funded. Projections will help the board determine sustainability of the annual operating budget and help make future budgetary decisions. 

The District is committed to utilizing the following financial metrics in determining district financial goals: 

1. Unspent Authorized Budget Ratio: Maintain unspent authorized budget ratio within the 25-30% target range. The current year’s projected balance will be discussed with the Board before staffing and other spending decisions are finalized for the succeeding year. 

2. Unspent Authorized Budget Net of Restricted Fund Balances (Categorical Balances): Maintain unspent authorized budget ratio net of restricted fund balances (categorical balances) within the 10-15% target range. The district will attempt to spend the restricted (categorical) annual allocation in the year received to the extent possible. 

3. Solvency Ratio: Maintain an unrestricted, uncommitted general fund balance within the 25-30% target range with 25% being a minimum goal. The current year’s projected balance will be discussed with the Board before establishing the succeeding year’s cash reserve levy and before staffing and other spending decisions are finalized. 

4. Optional: The District will take reasonable steps to achieve a total general fund balance at least equal to its unspent authority. This enables the District to cash flow its legal spending limit. 

Approved : 11-15-23 Reviewed: Revised:

 

awoods@gt.rati… Mon, 11/20/2023 - 09:41

702 - Cash In School Buildings

702 - Cash In School Buildings

Cash is required to be on hand for day to day operations of the school district.  The amount of cash that may be kept in the school building for any one day shall be sufficient for that day's operations. Funds raised by students shall be kept in the central administration office until the funds can be deposited in the student activity fund.

A minimal amount of cash is kept in the central administrative office at the close of the day.  Excess cash shall be deposited in the authorized depository of the school district.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to determine the amount of cash necessary for each day's operations and to comply with this policy.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-09-99, 11-12-025, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised:  9-13-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:51

703 - Budget

703 - Budget dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:48

703.1 - Budget Planning

703.1 - Budget Planning

Prior to certification of the budget, the board will review the projected revenues and expenditures for the school district and make adjustments where necessary to carry out the education program within the revenues projected.

A budget for the school district shall be prepared annually for the board's review.  The budget shall include the following:

  • the amount of revenues from sources other than taxation;
  • the amount of revenues to be raised by taxation;
  • an itemization of the amount to be spent in each fund; and,
  • a comparison of the amount spent in each fund for like purposes in the two prior fiscal years.

It is the responsibility of the School Business Official and Superintendent to prepare the budget for review by the board prior to the April 30 deadline each year. The District will provide all of the information necessary for the Proposed Property Tax Statement to the Department of Management by March 15.

Mailing of Proposed Property Tax Hearing Statements is completed by the county auditor by March 20.  A public hearing notice for the Proposed Property Taxes shall be published not less than 10 days and not more than 20 days prior to the date of hearing. The hearing notice is published in a newspaper designated for official publication in the school district.  The hearing notice must also be posted on the district website and district social media accounts on the same day it is published in the newspaper. The hearing on the Proposed Property Tax must be a unique and separate meeting and be the only item on the agenda. 

Prior to the adoption of the proposed budget by the board, the public is apprised of the proposed budget for the school district.  Prior to the adoption of the proposed budget by the board, members of the school district community will have an opportunity to review and comment on the proposed budget.  A public hearing for the proposed budget of the board is held each year in sufficient time to file the adopted budget no later than April 30.

The proposed budget filed by the board with the board secretary and the time and place for the public hearing on the proposed budget is published in a newspaper designated for official publication in the school district.  It is the responsibility of the board secretary to publish the proposed budget and public hearing information at least 10 but no more than 20 days prior to the public hearing.

The board will adopt and certify a budget for the operation of the school district to the county auditor by April 30.  It is the responsibility of the board secretary to file the adopted and certified budget with the county auditor and the Iowa Department of Management.

The board may amend the budget for the fiscal year in the event of unforeseen circumstances.  The amendment procedures will follow the procedures for public review and adoption of the original budget by the board outlined in these policies.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent and the board secretary to bring any budget amendments necessary to the attention of the board to allow sufficient time to file the amendment with the county auditor no later than May 31 of each year.

It shall be the responsibility of the business manager in conjunction with the superintendent to prepare the budget for review by the board prior to the April 15 deadline each year.

Approved: 11-09-99 Reviewed: 10-09-95, 11-12-02, 5-14-18 Revised: 08-13-12, 9-13-22, 07-17-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:53

704 - Revenue

704 - Revenue dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:43

704.1 - Local – State – Federal – Miscellaneous Revenue

704.1 - Local – State – Federal – Miscellaneous Revenue

Revenues of the school district shall be received by the board treasurer.  Other persons receiving revenues on behalf of the school district shall promptly turn them over to the board treasurer.

Revenue, from whatever source, shall be accounted for and classified under the official accounting system of the school district.  It shall be the responsibility of the board treasurer to deposit the revenues received by the school district in a timely manner. School district funds from all sources shall not be used for private gain or political purposes.

Tuition fees received by the school district shall be deposited in the general fund.  The tuition fees for kindergarten through twelfth grade during the regular academic school year shall be set by the board based upon the superintendent's recommendation in compliance with current law. Tuition fees for summer school, driver’s education, and adult education shall be set by the board prior to the offering of the programs.

The board may charge materials fees for the use or purchase of educational materials. Materials fees received by the school district shall be deposited in the general fund. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to recommend to the board when materials fees will be charged and the amount of the materials fees.

Rental fees received by the school district for the rental of school district equipment or facilities shall be deposited in the general fund. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to recommend to the board a fee schedule for renting school district property.

Proceeds from the sale or disposition of real property are placed in the fund which was used to account for the acquisition of the property.  If the District is unable to determine which fund was used to account for the acquisition of the property or if the fund no longer exists in the District, the proceeds from the sale or disposition of real property are placed in the physical plant and equipment levy fund. The proceeds from the sale or disposition of other District property are placed in the general fund.

The board may claim exemption from the law prohibiting competition with private enterprise from the following activities:

*          Goods and services directly and reasonably related to the educational mission;

*          Goods and services offered only to students, employees or guests which cannot  be provided by private enterprise at the same or lower cost;

*          Use of vehicles for charter trips offered to the public, full-or part-time or temporary students;

*          Goods and services which are not otherwise available in the quantity or quality required by the school district;

*          Telecommunications other than radio or television stations;

*          Sponsoring or providing facilities for fitness and recreation;

*          Food service and sales; and,

*          Sale of books, records, audio recordings, software, educational equipment, and supplies.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to bring to the board's attention additional sources of revenue for the school district.

 

 

Approved: 01-10-00              
Reviewed:  1-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised:  9-13-22                                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:49

704.2 - Sale of Bonds

704.2 - Sale of Bonds

The board may conduct an election for the authority to issue bonded indebtedness. Revenues generated from an approved bond issue shall be used only for the purpose stated on the ballot.  Revenues received from the issuing of bonded indebtedness are deposited into the capital projects fund.

Once the purpose on the ballot is completed, any balance remaining in a capital projects fund may be retained for future capital projects in accordance with the purpose stated on the ballot or any remaining balance may be transferred by Board resolution to the debt service fund or the physical plant and equipment levy fund.  Use of excess funds in the account for another purpose requires the approval of the voters in the District community.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised:  9-13-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:47

704.3 - Investments

704.3 - Investments

School district funds in excess of current needs are invested in compliance with this policy.  The goals of the school district's investment portfolio in order of priority are:

          To provide safety of the principal;

          To maintain the necessary liquidity to match expected liabilities; and

          To obtain a reasonable rate of return.

In making investments, the school district will exercise the care, skill, prudence, and diligence under the circumstances then prevailing that a prudent person acting in a like capacity and familiar with such matters would use to meet the goals of the investment program.

School district funds are monies of the school district, including operating funds.  Operating funds of the school district are funds which are reasonably expected to be used during a current budget year or within fifteen months of receipt.  When investing operating funds, the investments must mature within three hundred and ninety-seven days or less.  When investing funds other than operating funds, the investments must mature according to the need for the funds.

The board authorizes the treasurer to invest funds in excess of current needs in the following investments.

          Interest bearing savings, money market, and checking accounts at the school district's authorized depositories;

          Qualified investment pools, including, but not limited to, Iowa Schools Joint Investment Trust Program (ISJIT);

          Obligations of the United States government, its agencies and instrumentalities; and,

          Certificates of deposit and other evidences of deposit at federally insured Iowa depository institutions.

It is the responsibility of the treasurer to oversee the investment portfolio in compliance with this policy and the law.

It is the responsibility of the treasurer to work with the secretary to coordinate the financial records, the financial reports, the cash flow needs, and the investment portfolio of the school district.

If the board requests it, it shall be the responsibility of the treasurer to bring a contract with an outside person to invest school district funds, to advise on investments, to direct investments, to act in a fiduciary capacity or to perform other services to the board for review and approval.  The treasurer will also provide the board with information about and verification of the outside person's fiduciary bond.  Contracts with outside persons will include a clause requiring the outside person to notify the school district within thirty days of any material weakness in internal structure or regulatory orders or sanctions against the outside person regarding the services being provided to the school district and to provide the documents necessary for the performance of the investment portion of the school district audit.  The compensation of the outside persons will not be based on the performance of the investment portfolio.

The treasurer is responsible for reporting to and reviewing with the board at its regular meetings the investment portfolio's performance, transaction activity, and current investments including the percent of the investment portfolio by type of investment and by issuer and maturities.  The report will also include trend lines by month over the last year and year-to-year trend lines regarding the performance of the investment portfolio.  It will also be the responsibility of the treasurer to obtain the information necessary to ensure that the investments and the outside persons doing business with the school district meet the requirements outlined in this policy.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to deliver a copy of this policy to the school district's depositories, auditor, and outside persons doing investment business with the school district.

It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the treasurer, to develop a system of investment practices and internal controls over the investment practices.  The investment practices are designed to prevent losses, to document the officers' and employees' responsibility for elements of the investment process, and address the capability of the management.

 

 

Approved:  12-16-92             
Reviewed:  11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-02, 01-15-09, 06-11-12, 5-14-18
Revised:  08-13-12, 7-8-19, 9-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:45

704.4 - Gifts - Grants - Bequests

704.4 - Gifts - Grants - Bequests

The board believes gifts, grants, and bequests to the school district may be accepted when they will further the interests of the school district.  The board shall have sole authority to determine whether the gift, grant or bequest furthers the interests of the school district.

Gifts, grants, and bequests shall be approved by the board.  Once it has been approved by the board, a board member or the superintendent may accept the gift, grant or bequest on behalf of the school district.

Gifts, grants, and bequests once accepted by the board on behalf of the school district shall become the property of the school district.  Gifts, grants, and bequests shall be administered in accordance with terms, if any, agreed to by the board.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised:  9-13-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:45

704.5 - Student Activities Fund

704.5 - Student Activities Fund

Revenue raised by students or from student activities is deposited and accounted for in the student activities fund.  This revenue is the property of and is under the financial control of the board.  Students may use this revenue for purposes approved by the superintendent.

Whether such revenue is collected from student contributions, club dues, or special activities or result from admissions to special events or from other fund-raising activities, all funds will be under the jurisdiction of the board and under the specific control of the building principal.  They will be deposited in a designated depository and will be disbursed and accounted for in accordance with instructions issued by the superintendent.

It is the responsibility of the business manager to keep student activity accounts up-to-date and complete.

Any unencumbered class or activity account balances will automatically revert to the activity fund when a class graduates or an activity is discontinued.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 06-11-12, 5-14-18
Revised:  08-13-12, 7-8-19, 9-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:44

704.6 - Online Fundraising Campaigns - Crowdfunding

704.6 - Online Fundraising Campaigns - Crowdfunding

The board believes online fundraising campaigns, including crowdfunding campaigns, may further the interests of the school district. Any person or entity acting on behalf of the school district and wishing to conduct an online fundraising campaign for the benefit of the school district shall begin the process by seeking prior approval from the superintendent. Money or items raised by an online fundraising campaign will be the property of the school district only upon acceptance by the board, and will be used only in accordance with the terms for which they were given, as agreed to by the board.

Approval of requests shall depend on factors including, but not limited to:

  • Compatibility with the school district’s educational program, mission, vision, core values, and beliefs;
  • Congruence with the school district and school district goals that positively impact student performance;
  • The school district’s instructional priorities;
  • The manner in which donations are collected and distributed by the crowdfunding platform;
  • Equity in funding; and
  • Other factors deemed relevant or appropriate by the school district.

If approved, the requestor shall be responsible for preparing all materials and information related to the online fundraising campaign and keeping school district administration apprised of the status of the campaign.

The requestor is responsible for compliance with all state and federal laws and other relevant school district policies and procedures. All items and money generated are subject to the same controls and regulations as other school district property and shall be deposited or inventoried accordingly. No money raised or items purchased shall be distributed to individual employees.

 

 

Approved: 9-13-16                
Reviewed:  5-14-18                                  
Revised:
9-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:43

705 - Expenditures

705 - Expenditures dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:24

705.1 - Purchasing - Bidding

705.1 - Purchasing - Bidding

The board supports economic development in Iowa, particularly in the school district community. As permitted by law, purchasing preference will be given to Iowa goods and services from locally-owned businesses located within the school district or Iowa based companies if the cost and other considerations are relatively equal and meet the required specifications. However, when spending federal Child Nutrition Funds, geographical preference is allowed only for unprocessed agricultural food items as a part of response evaluation. Other statutory purchasing preferences will be applied as provided by law, including goals with regard to procurement from certified targeted small businesses, minority-owned businesses, and female owned businesses. 

Goods and Services 

The board shall enter into goods and services contract(s) as the board deems to be in the best interest of the school district. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to approve purchases, except those requiring board approval or as provided by in law. The superintendent may coordinate and combine purchases with other governmental bodies to take advantage of volume price breaks. Joint purchases with other political subdivisions will be considered in the purchase of equipment, accessories or attachments with an estimated cost of $50,000 or more. 

Purchases for goods and services requiring shall conform to the following: 

  • The superintendent shall have the authority to authorize purchases without prior board approval and without competitive request for proposals, quotations, or bids for goods and services up to $30,000. 
  • For goods and services costing at least $30,000 and up to $250,000, the superintendent shall receive proposals, quotations, or bids for the goods and services to be purchased prior to board approval. The quotation process may be informal, and include written or unwritten quotations.
  • For goods and services exceeding, $250,000., the competitive request for proposal (RFP) or competitive bid process shall be used and received prior to board approval. RFPs and bids are formal, written submissions via sealed process. 

In the event that only one quotation or bid is submitted, the board may proceed if the quotation or bid meets the contract award specifications.

 

The contract award shall be based on the total cost considerations including, but not limited to the following:

 

  • The cost of the goods and services being purchased; 
  • Availability of service and/or repair; 
  • The targeted small business procurement goal and other statutory purchasing  preferences; and 
  • Other factors deemed relevant by the board. 

The board may elect to exempt certain professional services contracts from the thresholds and procedures outlined above.

The thresholds and procedures related to purchases of goods and services do not apply to public improvement projects. 

Public Improvements

The board shall enter into public improvement contract(s) as the board deems to be in the best interest of the school district. Public improvement means a building or construction work which is constructed under the control of a governmental entity and for which either of the following applies: (1) is paid for in whole or in part with funds of the governmental entity or (2) a commitment has been made prior to construction by the governmental entity to pay for the building or construction work in whole or in part with funds of the governmental entity, This includes a building or improvement constructed or operated jointly with any public or private agency. 

The school district shall follow all requirements, timelines, and processes detailed in Iowa law related to public improvement projects. The thresholds regarding when competitive bidding or competitive quotations is required will be followed. Competitive bidding is required for public improvement contracts exceeding the minimum threshold stated in law. Competitive quotations are required for public improvement projects that exceed the minimum threshold amount stated in law, but do not exceed the minimum set for competitive bidding. The board shall approve competitive bids and competitive quotations. If the total cost of the public improvement does not warrant either competitive bidding or competitive quotations, the school district may nevertheless proceed with either of these processes, if it so chooses. 

The award of all contracts for the public improvement shall be awarded to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder. In the event of an emergency requiring repairs to a school district facility that exceed bidding and quotation thresholds, the school district will follow board policy regarding emergency repairs to school district facilities.

The school district shall comply with all federal and state laws and regulations required for procurement, including the selection and evaluation of contractors.

 

Approved:                    
Reviewed:  11-12-02    
Revised:  1-10-02, 12-14-15, 10-10-16, 9-13-22, 11-20-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:41

705.1R1-Suspension and Debarment of Vendors and Contractors Procedure

705.1R1-Suspension and Debarment of Vendors and Contractors Procedure

Code No.  705.1R1

SUSPENSION AND DEBARMENT OF VENDORS AND CONTRACTORS PROCEDURE

In connection with transactions subject to federal suspension and debarment requirements, the district is prohibited from entering into transactions with parties that are debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation in federal assistance programs or activities. 

When soliciting bids or otherwise preparing to enter into such a transaction, the superintendent or designee will use at least one of the following verification methods to ensure that any parties to the transaction are not suspended or debarred prior to committing to any sub-award, purchase, or contract:

1. Obtaining a certification of a party’s compliance with the federal suspension and debarment requirements in connection with any application, bid, or proposal;

2. Requiring compliance with the federal suspension and debarment requirements as an express condition of any sub-award, purchase, or contract in question; or

3. Prior to committing to any sub-award, purchase, or contract, check the online Federal System for Award Management at https://sam.gov/reports/awards/standard to determine whether the relevant party is subject to any suspension or debarment restrictions.  

 

2 CFR Part 200 Subpart B-General Provisions

200.113 Mandatory Disclosures

A non-Federal entity or applicant for a Federal award must disclose, in a timely manner, in writing to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity all violations of Federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery, or gratuity violations potentially affecting the Federal award. Non-Federal entities that have received a Federal award including the term and condition outlined in Appendix XII—Award Term and Condition for Recipient Integrity and Performance Matters are required to report certain civil, criminal, or administrative proceedings to SAM. Failure to make required disclosures can result in any of the remedies described in §200.338 Remedies for noncompliance, including suspension or debarment. (See also 2 CFR part 180, 31 U.S.C. 3321, and 41 U.S.C. 2313.)  It is the responsibility of the Superintendent to timely report to the relevant federal or pass through agency any violations of federal criminal law involving fraud, bribery or gratuity potentially impacting a federal grant.

Approved     10-18-23                Reviewed                    Revised    

awoods@gt.rati… Wed, 10/25/2023 - 09:36

705.1R2- Using Federal Funds in Procurement Contracts

705.1R2- Using Federal Funds in Procurement Contracts

Code No.  705.1R2

USING FEDERAL FUNDS IN PROCUREMENT CONTRACTS

In addition to the District’s standard procurement and purchasing procedures, the following procedures for vendors/contractors paid with federal funds are required.  When federal, state, and local requirements conflict, the most stringent requirement will be followed.

2 CFR Part 200, Subpart D Subsection §200.318 (c)(1) 

No District employee, officer, or agent may participate in the selection, award and administration of contracts supported by a Federal award if he or she has a real or apparent conflict of interest.  Such a conflict of interest would arise when the employee, officer, or agent, any member of his or her immediate family, his or her partner, or an organization which employs or is about to employ any of the parties indicated herein, has a financial or other interest in or a tangible personal benefit from a firm considered for a contract.  District officers, employees, and agents may neither solicit nor accept gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value from contractors or parties to subcontracts.  However, for situations where the financial interest is not substantial or the gift is an unsolicited item of nominal value, district employees must abide by all relevant board policies. Violation of this requirement may result in disciplinary action for the District employee, officer, or agent.

2 CFR Part 200, Subpart D Subsection §200.320 (e)(1-4)

Procurement for contracts paid with federal funds may be conducted by noncompetitive (single source) proposals when one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) the item is only available from a single source; (2) public exigency or emergency will not permit the delay resulting from competitive bids; (3) the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes noncompetitive proposals in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or (4) after solicitation of a number of sources, competition is inadequate. 

2 CFR Part 200, Subpart D Subsection §200.321

The District will take all necessary affirmative steps to assure that minority businesses, women's business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms are used when possible. Affirmative steps must include: (1) placing such businesses on solicitation lists; (2) soliciting such businesses whenever they are potential sources; (3) when economically feasible, dividing contracts into smaller tasks or quantities to allow participation from such businesses; (4) establishing delivery schedules that encourage participation by such businesses; (5) when appropriate, utilizing the Small Business Administration and the Minority Business Development Agency of the Department of Commerce; and (6) requiring the primary contractor to follow steps (1) through (5) when subcontractors are used.

The district will include the following provisions in all procurement contracts or purchase orders include the following provisions when applicable:

2 CFR Part 200 Appendix II

(A) Contracts for more than the simplified acquisition threshold currently set at $150,000, which is the inflation adjusted amount determined by the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) as authorized by 41 U.S.C. 1908, must address administrative, contractual, or legal remedies in instances where contractors violate or breach contract terms, and provide for such sanctions and penalties as appropriate. 

(B) All contracts in excess of $10,000 must address termination for cause and for convenience by the non-Federal entity including the manner by which it will be effected and the basis for settlement. 

(C) Equal Employment Opportunity. Except as otherwise provided under 41 CFR Part 60, all contracts that meet the definition of “federally assisted construction contract” in 41 CFR Part 60-1.3 must include the equal opportunity clause provided under 41 CFR 60-1.4(b), in accordance with Executive Order 11246, “Equal 

Employment Opportunity” (30 FR 12319, 12935, 3 CFR Part, 1964-1965 Comp., p. 339), as amended by Executive Order 11375, “Amending Executive Order 11246 Relating to Equal Employment Opportunity,” and implementing regulations at 41 CFR part 60, “Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Equal Employment Opportunity, Department of Labor.” 

(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act (40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 5, “Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering Federally Financed and Assisted Construction”). In accordance with the statute, contractors must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor. In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. The non-Federal entity must place a copy of the current prevailing wage determination issued by the Department of Labor in each solicitation. The decision to award a contract or subcontract must be conditioned upon the acceptance of the wage determination. The non-Federal entity must report all suspected or reported violations to the Federal awarding agency. The contracts must also include a provision for compliance with the Copeland “Anti-Kickback” Act (40 U.S.C. 3145), as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 3, “Contractors and Subcontractors on Public Building or Public Work Financed in Whole or in Part by Loans or Grants from the United States”). The Act provides that each contractor or subrecipient must be prohibited from inducing, by any means, any person employed in the construction, completion, or repair of public work, to give up any part of the compensation to which he or she is otherwise entitled. The non-Federal entity must report all suspected or reported violations to the Federal awarding agency. 

(E) Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (40 U.S.C. 3701-3708). Where applicable, all contracts awarded by the non-Federal entity in excess of $100,000 that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers must include a provision for compliance with 40 U.S.C. 3702 and 3704, as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 5). Under 40 U.S.C. 3702 of the Act, each contractor must be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work week is permissible provided that the worker is compensated at a rate of not less than one and a half times the basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the work week. The requirements of 40 U.S.C. 3704 are applicable to construction work and provide that no laborer or mechanic must be required to work in surroundings or under working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous or dangerous. These requirements do not apply to the purchases of supplies or materials or articles ordinarily available on the open market, or contracts for transportation or transmission of intelligence. 

(F) Rights to Inventions Made Under a Contract or Agreement. If the Federal award meets the definition of “funding agreement” under 37 CFR §401.2 (a) and the recipient or subrecipient wishes to enter into a contract with a small business firm or nonprofit organization regarding the substitution of parties, assignment or performance of experimental, developmental, or research work under that “funding agreement,” the recipient or subrecipient must comply with the requirements of 37 CFR Part 401, “Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under Government Grants, Contracts and Cooperative Agreements,” and any implementing regulations issued by the awarding agency. 

(G) Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401-7671q.) and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251-1387), as amended—Contracts and subgrants of amounts in excess of $150,000 must contain a provision that requires the non-Federal award to agree to comply with all applicable standards, orders or regulations issued pursuant to the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401-7671q) and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act as amended (33 U.S.C. 1251-1387). Violations must be reported to the Federal awarding agency and the Regional Office of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

(H) Debarment and Suspension (Executive Orders 12549 and 12689)—A contract award (see 2 CFR 180.220) must not be made to parties listed on the government wide exclusions in the System for Award Management (SAM), in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR part 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR part 1989 Comp., p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.” SAM Exclusions contains the names of parties debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded by agencies, as well as parties declared ineligible under statutory or regulatory authority other than Executive Order 12549. 

(I) Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment (31 U.S.C. 1352)—Contractors that apply or bid for an award exceeding $100,000 must file the required certification. Each tier certifies to the tier above that it will not and has not used Federal appropriated funds to pay any person or organization for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a member of Congress, officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with obtaining any Federal contract, grant or any other award covered by 31 U.S.C. 1352. Each tier must also disclose any lobbying with non-Federal funds that takes place in connection with obtaining any Federal award. Such disclosures are forwarded from tier to tier up to the non-Federal award. 

(J) See §200.322 Procurement of recovered materials.

§200.216 Prohibition on certain telecommunications and video surveillance services or equipment

(a)    The district is prohibited from obligating or expending loan or grant funds to:

Procure or obtain;

  1. Extend or renew a contract to procure or obtain; or

  2. Enter into a contract (or extend or renew a contract) to procure or obtain equipment, services, or systems that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system.  As described in Public law 115-232, section 889, covered telecommunications equipment is telecommunications equipment produced by Huawei Technologies Company or ZTE Corporation (or any subsidiary or affiliate of such entities). 

i. For purpose of public safety, security of government facilities, physical security surveillance of critical infrastructure, and other national security purposes, video surveillance and telecommunication equipment produced by Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, or Dahua Technology Company (or any subsidiary or affiliate of such entities).

ii. Telecommunications or video surveillance services provided by such entities or using such equipment.

iii. Telecommunications or video surveillance equipment or services produced or provided by an entity that the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of the National Intelligence of the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, reasonably believes to be an entity owned by or controlled by, or otherwise connected to, the government of a foreign country. 

(b)    In implementing the prohibition under Public Law 115-232, section 889, subsection (f), paragraph (l), heads of executive agencies administering loan, grant, or subsidy programs shall prioritize available  funding and technical support to assist affected businesses, institutions and organizations as is reasonably necessary for those affected entities to transition from covered communications equipment and services, to procure replacement equipment and services, and to ensure that communications service to users and customers is sustained.

(c)    See Public Law 115-232, section 889 for additional information.

(d)    See also §200.471.

Approved        10-18-23             Reviewed                    Revised    

 

awoods@gt.rati… Wed, 10/25/2023 - 09:38

705.1R2- Using Federal Funds in Procurement Contracts

705.1R2- Using Federal Funds in Procurement Contracts

Code No.  705.1R2

USING FEDERAL FUNDS IN PROCUREMENT CONTRACTS

In addition to the District’s standard procurement and purchasing procedures, the following procedures for vendors/contractors paid with federal funds are required.  When federal, state, and local requirements conflict, the most stringent requirement will be followed.

2 CFR Part 200, Subpart D Subsection §200.318 (c)(1) 

No District employee, officer, or agent may participate in the selection, award and administration of contracts supported by a Federal award if he or she has a real or apparent conflict of interest.  Such a conflict of interest would arise when the employee, officer, or agent, any member of his or her immediate family, his or her partner, or an organization which employs or is about to employ any of the parties indicated herein, has a financial or other interest in or a tangible personal benefit from a firm considered for a contract.  District officers, employees, and agents may neither solicit nor accept gratuities, favors, or anything of monetary value from contractors or parties to subcontracts.  However, for situations where the financial interest is not substantial or the gift is an unsolicited item of nominal value, district employees must abide by all relevant board policies. Violation of this requirement may result in disciplinary action for the District employee, officer, or agent.

2 CFR Part 200, Subpart D Subsection §200.320 (e)(1-4)

Procurement for contracts paid with federal funds may be conducted by noncompetitive (single source) proposals when one or more of the following circumstances apply: (1) the item is only available from a single source; (2) public exigency or emergency will not permit the delay resulting from competitive bids; (3) the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity expressly authorizes noncompetitive proposals in response to a written request from the non-Federal entity; or (4) after solicitation of a number of sources, competition is inadequate. 

2 CFR Part 200, Subpart D Subsection §200.321

The District will take all necessary affirmative steps to assure that minority businesses, women's business enterprises, and labor surplus area firms are used when possible. Affirmative steps must include: (1) placing such businesses on solicitation lists; (2) soliciting such businesses whenever they are potential sources; (3) when economically feasible, dividing contracts into smaller tasks or quantities to allow participation from such businesses; (4) establishing delivery schedules that encourage participation by such businesses; (5) when appropriate, utilizing the Small Business Administration and the Minority Business Development Agency of the Department of Commerce; and (6) requiring the primary contractor to follow steps (1) through (5) when subcontractors are used.

The district will include the following provisions in all procurement contracts or purchase orders include the following provisions when applicable:

2 CFR Part 200 Appendix II

(A) Contracts for more than the simplified acquisition threshold currently set at $150,000, which is the inflation adjusted amount determined by the Civilian Agency Acquisition Council and the Defense Acquisition Regulations Council (Councils) as authorized by 41 U.S.C. 1908, must address administrative, contractual, or legal remedies in instances where contractors violate or breach contract terms, and provide for such sanctions and penalties as appropriate. 

(B) All contracts in excess of $10,000 must address termination for cause and for convenience by the non-Federal entity including the manner by which it will be effected and the basis for settlement. 

(C) Equal Employment Opportunity. Except as otherwise provided under 41 CFR Part 60, all contracts that meet the definition of “federally assisted construction contract” in 41 CFR Part 60-1.3 must include the equal opportunity clause provided under 41 CFR 60-1.4(b), in accordance with Executive Order 11246, “Equal 

Employment Opportunity” (30 FR 12319, 12935, 3 CFR Part, 1964-1965 Comp., p. 339), as amended by Executive Order 11375, “Amending Executive Order 11246 Relating to Equal Employment Opportunity,” and implementing regulations at 41 CFR part 60, “Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Equal Employment Opportunity, Department of Labor.” 

(D) Davis-Bacon Act, as amended (40 U.S.C. 3141-3148). When required by Federal program legislation, all prime construction contracts in excess of $2,000 awarded by non-Federal entities must include a provision for compliance with the Davis-Bacon Act (40 U.S.C. 3141-3144, and 3146-3148) as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 5, “Labor Standards Provisions Applicable to Contracts Covering Federally Financed and Assisted Construction”). In accordance with the statute, contractors must be required to pay wages to laborers and mechanics at a rate not less than the prevailing wages specified in a wage determination made by the Secretary of Labor. In addition, contractors must be required to pay wages not less than once a week. The non-Federal entity must place a copy of the current prevailing wage determination issued by the Department of Labor in each solicitation. The decision to award a contract or subcontract must be conditioned upon the acceptance of the wage determination. The non-Federal entity must report all suspected or reported violations to the Federal awarding agency. The contracts must also include a provision for compliance with the Copeland “Anti-Kickback” Act (40 U.S.C. 3145), as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 3, “Contractors and Subcontractors on Public Building or Public Work Financed in Whole or in Part by Loans or Grants from the United States”). The Act provides that each contractor or subrecipient must be prohibited from inducing, by any means, any person employed in the construction, completion, or repair of public work, to give up any part of the compensation to which he or she is otherwise entitled. The non-Federal entity must report all suspected or reported violations to the Federal awarding agency. 

(E) Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (40 U.S.C. 3701-3708). Where applicable, all contracts awarded by the non-Federal entity in excess of $100,000 that involve the employment of mechanics or laborers must include a provision for compliance with 40 U.S.C. 3702 and 3704, as supplemented by Department of Labor regulations (29 CFR Part 5). Under 40 U.S.C. 3702 of the Act, each contractor must be required to compute the wages of every mechanic and laborer on the basis of a standard work week of 40 hours. Work in excess of the standard work week is permissible provided that the worker is compensated at a rate of not less than one and a half times the basic rate of pay for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours in the work week. The requirements of 40 U.S.C. 3704 are applicable to construction work and provide that no laborer or mechanic must be required to work in surroundings or under working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous or dangerous. These requirements do not apply to the purchases of supplies or materials or articles ordinarily available on the open market, or contracts for transportation or transmission of intelligence. 

(F) Rights to Inventions Made Under a Contract or Agreement. If the Federal award meets the definition of “funding agreement” under 37 CFR §401.2 (a) and the recipient or subrecipient wishes to enter into a contract with a small business firm or nonprofit organization regarding the substitution of parties, assignment or performance of experimental, developmental, or research work under that “funding agreement,” the recipient or subrecipient must comply with the requirements of 37 CFR Part 401, “Rights to Inventions Made by Nonprofit Organizations and Small Business Firms Under Government Grants, Contracts and Cooperative Agreements,” and any implementing regulations issued by the awarding agency. 

 

(G) Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401-7671q.) and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251-1387), as amended—Contracts and subgrants of amounts in excess of $150,000 must contain a provision that requires the non-Federal award to agree to comply with all applicable standards, orders or regulations issued pursuant to the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401-7671q) and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act as amended (33 U.S.C. 1251-1387). Violations must be reported to the Federal awarding agency and the Regional Office of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

(H) Debarment and Suspension (Executive Orders 12549 and 12689)—A contract award (see 2 CFR 180.220) must not be made to parties listed on the government wide exclusions in the System for Award Management (SAM), in accordance with the OMB guidelines at 2 CFR 180 that implement Executive Orders 12549 (3 CFR part 1986 Comp., p. 189) and 12689 (3 CFR part 1989 Comp., p. 235), “Debarment and Suspension.” SAM Exclusions contains the names of parties debarred, suspended, or otherwise excluded by agencies, as well as parties declared ineligible under statutory or regulatory authority other than Executive Order 12549. 

(I) Byrd Anti-Lobbying Amendment (31 U.S.C. 1352)—Contractors that apply or bid for an award exceeding $100,000 must file the required certification. Each tier certifies to the tier above that it will not and has not used Federal appropriated funds to pay any person or organization for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a member of Congress, officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a member of Congress in connection with obtaining any Federal contract, grant or any other award covered by 31 U.S.C. 1352. Each tier must also disclose any lobbying with non-Federal funds that takes place in connection with obtaining any Federal award. Such disclosures are forwarded from tier to tier up to the non-Federal award. 

(J) See §200.322 Procurement of recovered materials.

§200.216 Prohibition on certain telecommunications and video surveillance services or equipment

(a)    The district is prohibited from obligating or expending loan or grant funds to:

  1. Procure or obtain;

  2. Extend or renew a contract to procure or obtain; or

  3. Enter into a contract (or extend or renew a contract) to procure or obtain equipment, services, or systems that uses covered telecommunications equipment or services as a substantial or essential component of any system, or as critical technology as part of any system.  As described in Public law 115-232, section 889, covered telecommunications equipment is telecommunications equipment produced by Huawei Technologies Company or ZTE Corporation (or any subsidiary or affiliate of such entities). 

i. For purpose of public safety, security of government facilities, physical security surveillance of critical infrastructure, and other national security purposes, video surveillance and telecommunication equipment produced by Hytera Communications Corporation, Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Company, or Dahua Technology Company (or any subsidiary or affiliate of such entities).

ii. Telecommunications or video surveillance services provided by such entities or using such equipment.

iii. Telecommunications or video surveillance equipment or services produced or provided by an entity that the Secretary of Defense, in consultation with the Director of the National Intelligence of the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, reasonably believes to be an entity owned by or controlled by, or otherwise connected to, the government of a foreign country. 

(b)    In implementing the prohibition under Public Law 115-232, section 889, subsection (f), paragraph (l), heads of executive agencies administering loan, grant, or subsidy programs shall prioritize available  funding and technical support to assist affected businesses, institutions and organizations as is reasonably necessary for those affected entities to transition from covered communications equipment and services, to procure replacement equipment and services, and to ensure that communications service to users and customers is sustained.

(c)    See Public Law 115-232, section 889 for additional information.

(d)    See also §200.471.

Approved        10-18-23             Reviewed                    Revised    

 

awoods@gt.rati… Wed, 10/25/2023 - 09:42

705.2 - Purchasing on Behalf of Employees

705.2 - Purchasing on Behalf of Employees

Generally, the school district shall not purchase items on behalf of employees.  The school district may in unusual and unique circumstances do so.  It shall be within the discretion of the board to determine when unique and unusual circumstances exist.

No purchase shall be made unless the employee has paid the school district all amounts related to purchase, including any taxes or other expenses, prior to the school district making the purchase.  Any issues with the purchase or delivery of the item (delays in shipping, damage to items in shipping, errors or deficiencies in filling an order, etc.) are solely the responsibility of the employee to address.  Any refunds, credits or rebates provided to the employee related to the purchase will be provided to the school district by the employee.

 

 

Approved: 7-1-92            
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised:  9-13-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:24

705.3 - Payment for Goods and Services

705.3 - Payment for Goods and Services

The board authorizes the issue of payment of claims against the school district for goods and services.  The board will allow the payment after the goods and services have been received and accepted in compliance with board policy.

The board authorizes the business manager, upon approval of the superintendent, to issue payment for verified bills, for reasonable and necessary expenses, when the board is not in session.  The business manager will examine the claims and verify bills.  The board will approve the bills at its next regular meeting.

The business manager shall determine to the business manager’s satisfaction that the claims presented to the board are in order and are legitimate expenses of the school district.  It shall be the responsibility of the business manager to bring claims to the board for approval.  Thereafter, paid claims shall be entered on record in the regular minutes of the board secretary.

 The board president and business manager may sign warrants by use of a signature plate or rubber stamp.  If the board president is unavailable to sign warrants, the vice president may sign warrants on behalf of the president.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 06-11-12, 5-14-18
Revised:  09-20-94, 08-13-12, 6-18-19, 9-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:40

705.4 - Appropriate Use of Public Funds

705.4 - Appropriate Use of Public Funds

Public Purpose

School district funds are to be expended only for legitimate public purposes and not for private personal gain for which services of comparable value have not been rendered to the school district. This is a requirement of the Iowa Constitution.

All funds received by the school district are considered public funds and must be used to support the educational mission of the school district. The best test to use when determining whether the expenditure is appropriate is called the public scrutiny test. The test is whether the tax-paying public would view the expenditure as necessary to support public education. If employees question whether an expenditure is appropriate, it may very well not be appropriate.  Employees should contact their supervisor if they have any questions about appropriate expenses.

The board supports appropriate expenditures of school district funds for school district officers, directors, employees, and volunteers, as these are commonly granted benefits in public and private organizations which aid in recruitment of personnel, promote improvement of staff morale and cooperation, and assist in building a commitment to the school district, thus assisting in creating a more productive learning environment. The following are considered appropriate expenditures provided they are awards or tokens from the school district; not from the department or building level:

  1. Food items, refreshments, and/or mementoes from the school district for employee recruitment or recognition for service to the school district.
  2. School district retirement appreciation function and or item to recognize retiring employees.
  3. Recognition items upon the end of service by a board member.
  4. School district volunteer appreciation events.
  5. Food items and refreshments for board members and staff during board meetings and/or work sessions.
  6. Food items and refreshments for board committees, superintendent committees or committee meetings that include participation from the public during the meeting.

School district awards or tokens of recognition shall be determined by the superintendent or designee in advance and shall be paid for with school district funds under the control of the superintendent or designee. Public funds should not be used for the purchase of department or building level staff awards or tokens of recognition.

 

Sales Tax Exempt

The school district is Iowa sales tax exempt. All items purchased by a public school for the school’s own use, qualify for an exemption from sales tax if the items purchased relate to the educational process. When making purchases, the staff member must inform the vendor that the purchase is sales tax exempt. A vendor can request a tax exemption form from the school district. The school district will not reimburse for sales tax paid on purchases made on behalf of the school district.  When purchasing meals in Iowa, an effort must be made to have the meal purchase Iowa sales tax-exempt. Staff members must inform the restaurant before the order is placed that you are with the school district and that the purchase should be sales tax exempt. If the restaurant is unable to comply and the purchase is within the school district meal limits, the purchase will be an appropriate expense for reimbursement.

 

Examples of Appropriate and Inappropriate Use of Public Monies

This section identifies specific practices and procedures to be followed by all school district employees when using public funds. The following list is intended to provide examples and may not be all inclusive.

 

FOOD AND REFRESHMENTS

  1. Alcohol
    The purchase of alcohol is never an acceptable use of public monies.
  2. Meetings, Trainings, and Professional Development
    Meals and snacks are normally a personal expense. Any meal or snack paid for with public funds must be a reasonable price and an integral part of employment duties.  Meals and snacks can be paid for with public funds if:
    1. The meeting is four (4) hours or more and separate breaks would be disruptive to the meeting objectives.
    2. The meeting is a breakfast, lunch or dinner meeting where the meeting is shorter than four hours in duration and attendance during meal time(s) is a requirement of an employee’s job duties.  The amount paid per meal shall not exceed $14 per person; exceptions may be approved by the superintendent or designee.
    3. Tips for meals are allowed but should not exceed 15%.
  3. Board Meetings
    The board meets at a time that is intended to be convenient for the general public. Meetings routinely span the normal dinner hour. Serving      meals of reasonable value to board members and staff required to attend board meetings is considered an appropriate expense.
  4. Coffee and Beverages
    Coffee and other beverages are normally a personal expense. A voluntary collection can be made from those who desire to have coffee and      other beverages in the school/department. Except for meetings, trainings, and professional development (Item B), Board meetings (Item C),and public areas (Item H)), coffee and beverages shall not be purchased with public funds.
  5. Employee Break Room Supplies
    Public funds should not be used to stock supplies such as plasticware and paper products in employee break rooms. A voluntary collection        can be made from those who desire to have such supplies.
  6. Individual Receptions
    Receptions for individual employees should never be paid from public funds. This includes retirement dinners, staff meals, welcome              aboard receptions, and similar gatherings where food and/or refreshments may be served. Voluntary collections can be taken from those attending such gatherings.
  7. Acceptable Occasions
    The superintendent or designee may determine that the serving of food or refreshments is appropriate for selected occasions.  The annual retirement reception for all school district employees is one example.
  8. Public Areas
    In some cases, a building or part of a building is routinely open to the public for conducting school district business.  Having refreshmentsof nominal value available to members of the public, such as coffee and other nominal snacks/beverages, are considered a courtesy and are authorized in these specific locations.
  9. Student Incentives
    Incentives purchased for qualifying groups of students from public funds as part of an initiative, program, or recognition (e.g., rewards, honor roll) shall be of nominal value and authorized by the school administrator.

GIFTS

  1. Employee Gifts
    Expenditures of public funds for gifts or gift cards to staff and employees are not authorized. This includes gifts purchased for staff              birthdays or other personal occasions. Voluntary collections from staff would be an acceptable way of purchasing employee gifts.
  2. Tokens/Clothing
    The purchase of tokens of appreciation, or personal clothing (e.g., coffee mugs, pens, tote bags, T-shirts/apparel, etc.) is not authorized.

FLOWERS

  1. Sympathy and Congratulations
    The use of public funds for the purchase of flowers is restricted to exceptional occasions where a public expression of sympathy or congratulations has been determined by the superintendent or designee to be in the best interests of the school district. Written expressions of condolence are encouraged for all other occasions where flowers are not appropriate.
  2. Individual Achievements
    Unless they are part of an award or graduation ceremony, flowers are not appropriate for individual achievements.
  3. School Activities
    Flowers/decorations purchased for proms, dances, homecomings, etc., may be purchased out of school activity funds if authorized by the school administrator.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

  1. School District Awards and Recognitions
    At times, awards or recognitions are appropriate for presentation to school district staff for years of service. School district awards or recognitions shall be determined by the superintendent or designee in advance and shall be paid for with school district funds.  Public funds should not be used for the purchase of department or building level staff awards or recognitions.
  2. External Awards and Recognitions
    At times, awards are appropriate for presentation to people (e.g., volunteers) or organizations external to the school district.  External awards or recognitions shall be determined by the superintendent or designee in advance.

BREAK ROOM EQUIPMENT

Microwaves, refrigerators, coffee pots, toaster ovens and other similar equipment items may be procured with public funds for use in public reception areas and employee break rooms. Otherwise, these items must be purchased with personal funds. In all instances, all fire marshal safety restrictions must be observed. These items are not authorized in classrooms and offices.

HOLIDAY PARTIES, DECORATIONS, AND CARDS

  1. Holiday Decorations
    Office holiday decorations shall not be purchased with public funds.
  2. Holiday Cards
    Holiday cards shall not be purchased with public funds.
  3. Holiday Parties
    Staff holiday parties and meals are a personal expense. Voluntary collections may be taken to fund holiday events.  Public funds shall not be used for holiday parties.

STUDENT ACTIVITY FUNDS

Student activity funds are public funds and are to be used to finance a program of co- curricular school activities supplementing, but not replacing, the activities provided by the school district. Student activity funds are derived from the student body as a whole and shall be so expended to benefit the student body as a whole.

 

 

Approved: 9-13-22                
Reviewed:                  
Revised: 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 19:25

706 - Payroll Procedures

706 - Payroll Procedures dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:12

706.1 - Payroll Periods

706.1 - Payroll Periods

The school district provides the following two options to employees for payroll periods(1) on the 5th and 20th day of each month or (2) the 20th day of each month.  If a pay day falls on a holiday, recess or weekend, the payroll is paid on the last working day prior to the holiday, recess or weekend.

It is the responsibility of the business manager to issue payroll to employees in compliance with this policy.

 

 

Approved: 7/11/92                 
Reviewed:  11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 06-11-12, 08-13-12, 5-14-18     
Revised:  01-10-00, 9-13-22                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:13

706.2 - Payroll Deductions

706.2 - Payroll Deductions

Ease of administration is the primary consideration for payroll deductions, other than those required by law.  Payroll deductions are made for federal income tax withholdings, Iowa income tax withholdings, social security, and the Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS).

Employees may elect to have amounts withheld from their pay for items authorized by law, subject to agreement of the district.  Requests for these deductions will be made in writing to the superintendent.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to determine which additional payroll deductions will be allowed.

 

 

Approved: 7-1-92      
Reviewed: 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09  
Revised: 11-14-05, 5-14-18, 9-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:12

706.2R1 - Pay Deduction Regulation

706.2R1 - Pay Deduction Regulation

The school district complies with all applicable laws with respect to payment of wages and benefits to employees including laws such as the federal Fair Labor Standards Act and the Iowa Wage Payment Collection Act.   The school district will not make pay deductions that violate either the federal or state laws.

Any employee who believes the school district has made an inappropriate deduction or has failed to make proper payment regarding wages or benefits is encouraged to immediately consult with the appropriate supervisor.  Alternatively, any employee may file a formal written complaint with the business manager.  Within 15 business days of receiving the complaint, the superintendent will make a determination as to whether the pay deductions were appropriate and provide the employee with a written response that may include reimbursement for any pay deductions that were not appropriately made.

This complaint procedure is available in addition to any other complaint process that may also be available to the employees.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:13

707 - Fiscal Reports

707 - Fiscal Reports dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:04

707.1 - Secretary’s Reports

707.1 - Secretary’s Reports

The board secretary shall report to the board each month the receipts, disbursements, and balances of the various funds.  This report shall be in written form and sent to the board with the agenda for the board meeting.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 11-15-09, 06-11-12, 5-14-18
Revised:  08-13-12, 9-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:11

707.2 - Treasurer’s Annual Report

707.2 - Treasurer’s Annual Report

At the annual meeting, the treasurer shall give the annual report stating the amount held over, received, paid out, and on hand in the general and schoolhouse funds.  This report shall be given in written form and sent to the board with the agenda for the board meeting.

The treasurer will also furnish the board with a sworn statement from each depository showing the balance then on deposit.

It shall be the responsibility of the treasurer to submit this report to the board annually.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92      
Reviewed: 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised:  1-10-00, 9-13-22                                        

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:10

707.3 - Publication of Financial Reports

707.3 - Publication of Financial Reports

Each month the schedule of bills allowed by the board shall be published in a newspaper designated as a newspaper for official publication.  Annually, the total salaries paid to employees regularly employed by the school district shall also be published in a newspaper designated as a newspaper for official publication.

It shall be the responsibility of the board secretary to publish these reports in a timely manner.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised: 9-13-22                                                       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:09

707.4 - Audit

707.4 - Audit

To review the funds and accounts of the school district, the board shall employ an auditor to perform an annual audit of the financial affairs of the school district.  The administration shall cooperate with the auditors.

The board shall utilize a request for proposal procedure in selecting an auditor to be recommended to the board.

 

 

Approved :             
Reviewed:  10-09-98, 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised:  07-01-92, 9-13-22                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:08

707.5 - Capital Assets

707.5 - Capital Assets

The school district will establish and maintain a capital assets management system for reporting capitalized assets owned or under the jurisdiction of the school district in its financial reports in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as required or modified by law; to improve the school district's oversight of capital assets by assigning and recording them to specific facilities and programs and to provide for proof of loss of capital assets for insurance purposes.

Capital assets, including tangible and intangible assets, are reported in the government-wide financial statements (i.e., governmental activities and business type activities) and the proprietary fund financial statements. Capital assets reported include school district buildings and sites, construction in progress, improvements other than buildings and sites, land and machinery and equipment. Capital assets reported in the financial reports will include individual capital assets with an historical cost equal to or greater than $10,000. The Federal regulations governing school lunch programs require capital assets attributable to the school lunch program with a historical cost of equal to or greater than $500 be capitalized. Additionally, capital assets are depreciated over the useful life of each capital asset.

All intangible assets with a purchase price equal to or greater than $10,000 with useful life of two or more years, are included in the intangible asset inventory for capitalization purposes. Such assets are recorded at actual historical cost and amortized over the designated useful lifetime applying a straight-line method of depreciation. If there are no legal, contractual, regulatory, technological or other factors that limit the useful life of the asset, then the intangible asset needs to be considered to have an indefinite useful life and no amortization should be recorded.

Phase III districts, as determined under GASB 34, will not retroactively report intangible assets. If actual historical cost cannot be determined for intangible assets due to lack of sufficient records, estimated historical cost will be used.

This policy applies to all intangible assets. If an intangible asset that meets the threshold criteria is fully amortized, the asset must be reported at the historical cost and the applicable accumulated amortization must also be reported. It is not appropriate to net the capital asset and amortization to avoid reporting. For internally generated intangible assets, outlays incurred by the government's personnel, or by a third-party contractor on behalf of the government, and for development of internally generated intangible assets should be capitalized.

The capital assets management system must be updated monthly to account for the addition/acquisition, disposal, and relocation/transfer of capital assets. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to count and reconcile the capital assets with capital assets management system on June 30 each year.  It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent to educate employees about this policy and its supporting administrative regulations.

 

 

Approved: 9-13-22                
Reviewed:                  
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:04

707.5R1 - Capital Assets Regulation

707.5R1 - Capital Assets Regulation

A. Capital Assets Management System

The superintendent, and/or other designated staff, shall:

1.         Conduct the capital assets physical count;

2.         Develop the capital assets listing;

3.         Tag capital assets included in the capital assets management system with a bar code identification number;

4.         Make a recommendation of a computer software program for managing the capital assets management system;

5.         Enter the necessary data into the capital assets management system and compile the appropriate reports;

6.         Develop forms and procedures for maintaining the integrity of the capital assets management system; and,

7.         Maintain responsibility for an accurate capital assets management system.

 

B. Determining historical cost

1.         The historical cost of a capital asset is based on the actual costs expended in making the capital assets serviceable.

2.         Gifts of capital assets are valued at the estimated fair market value at the addition/acquisition date.

3.         Capital assets purchased under a capital lease are valued at historical cost of their net present value of the minimum lease payments on the addition/acquisition date.

4.         The historical cost of capital assets must include capitalized interest.

 

C. Annual capital assets listing reconciliation

1.         The superintendent, and/or other designated staff, in conjunction with the capital assets management team, will conduct an annual capital assets physical count to develop the annual capital assets listing in a manner similar to the initial capital assets listing process in B above. At least every three years, someone other than the person in custody of the capital assets in the building/department/room will perform the capital assets physical count for the building/department/room.

2.         Upon completion of the annual capital assets listing, the capital assets listing is reconciled to the capital assets management system data base.

3.         Capital assets found to have been excluded from the data base are added to the capital assets management system. The capital assets management system process should be reviewed to prevent future incidents of excluding a capital asset.

4.         Capital assets unaccounted for are reported to the superintendent who contacts the supervisor of and the individual in charge/control/custody of the capital asset. The individual in charge/control/custody of the capital asset has thirty days to account for the capital asset.

5.         Capital assets unaccounted for after thirty days are reported to the superintendent for appropriate action and documentation. "Appropriate action" may include discipline, up to and including discharge, and may require the employee/person in charge/control/custody of the capital asset to replace the asset.

6.         The superintendent is responsible for documenting the reasons each asset was not reconciled to the capital assets management system.

 

D. Addition/acquisition of capital assets.

1.         The school district's purchasing policy and administrative regulations must be followed when acquiring capital assets. The school district's policy and administrative regulations must be followed for receiving a gift of capital assets.

2.         The capital assets addition/acquisition documentation must be completed for each additional capital assets with an addition/acquisition cost of equal to or greater than ($ capitalization threshold). The following information should be collected, if applicable:

a.         Name of location-building/department/room;

b.         Location-building/department/room code;

c.         Balance sheet accounting/class code;

d.         Government or BTA program;

e.         Addition/acquisition date;

f.          Check/purchase order number or gift;

g.         Bar code identification number assigned to and placed on the capital asset;

h.         Serial/model number;

i.          Cost-historical;

j.          Fair market value on acquisition date (donated assets only);

k.         Estimated useful life;

l.          Vendor;

m.        Purchasing fund and function;

n.         Description of capital asset;

o.         Department/person charged with custody,

p.         Method of addition/acquisition-purchase, trade, gift etc.,

q.         Quantity;

r.          Replacement cost;

s.          Addition/acquisition authorization; and,

t.          Function for depreciation.

3.         Capital assets acquired in a month must be entered into the capital assets management system in the same month.

4.         The actual costs of construction in progress, other than infrastructure, is entered into the capital assets management system in the month in which costs are incurred until the total cost of addition/acquisition is entered. Upon completion of construction, the total costs accumulated over the period of construction are reclassified to buildings.

5.         Capital assets acquired in a month must be entered into the capital assets management system in the same month.

 

E. Relocation/transfer of machinery and equipment capital assets.

1.         A capital assets relocation/transfer documentation must be completed prior to removing machinery and equipment capital assets from their current location. The following information must be collected:

a.         Relocation/transfer date;

b.         Quantity;

c.         Bar code identification number;

d.         Current location-building/department/room code;

e.         Name of current location-building/department/room;

f.          New location-building/department/room code;

g.         Name of new location-building/department/room;

h.         Date placed at new location-building/department/room;

i.          Department/person charged with custody; and

j.          Relocation/transfer authorization.

2.         Capital assets relocated/transferred in a month must be entered into the capital assets management system in the same month.

 

F. Disposal of capital assets

1.         A Capital Assets disposal documentation must be completed prior to disposing of real property. The following information must be collected:

a.         Disposal date;

b.         Quantity;

c.         Bar code tag identification number;

d.         Legal description,

e.         Location/Address;

f.          Purchaser;

g.         Disposal methods for real property trade, sale, stolen, etc.; and,

h.         Disposal authorization.

2.         Capital assets disposed of in a month must be entered into the capital assets management system in the same month.

3.         When assets are sold or disposed of, it is necessary to calculate and report a gain or loss in the statement of activities. The gain/loss is calculated by subtracting the net book value (historical cost less any accumulated amortization) from the net amount realized on the sale or disposal.

 

G. Lost, damaged or stolen capital assets.

1.         A Lost, Damaged or Stolen Capital Assets Report must be completed when a capital asset has been lost, damaged or stolen. The following information must be collected:

a.         Date of loss, damage or theft;

b.         Employee/person discovering;

c.         Quantity;

d.         Description of capital asset;

e.         Bar code tag identification number;

f.          Location-building/department/room;

g.         Description of loss, damage, etc.;

h.         Filing of police report-yes or no;

i.          Filing of insurance report-yes or no;

j.          Sent for repair-yes or no;

k.         Date returned from repair;

l.          Date returned to location-building/department/room;

m.        Department/person charged with custody; and,

n.         Authorization.

2.         Capital assets damaged, lost or stolen in a month must be entered into the capital assets management system in the same month.

 

H. Capital assets reports

1.         Annual reports for June 30 each year.

a.         Capital assets listing including the following items:

0.         Balance sheet accounting/class code;

1.         Purchasing fund, function and depreciation function;

2.         Bar code tag identification number;

3.         Description of the capital asset;

4.         Historical cost or other;

5.         Location;

6.         Current year depreciation/expense; and,

7.         Accumulated depreciation/amortization.

b.         Capital assets listing by location/building;

c.         Capital assets listing by department/employee/person charged with custody; and,

d.         Capital assets listing by replacement cost.

    

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:05

707.5R2 - Capital Assets Management System Definitions

707.5R2 - Capital Assets Management System Definitions

Back trending/standard costing - an estimate of the historical original cost using a known average installed cost for like units as of the estimated addition/ acquisition date. This cost is only applied to the capital assets initially counted upon implementation of the capital assets management system when the historical original cost cannot be determined. It is inappropriate to apply the back trending/standard costing method to any capital assets acquired after the assets management system implementation date.

Balance sheet accounting/class codes - the codes set out for assets in the Iowa Department of

Education Uniform Accounting Manual. They are: 200-capital assets; 211- land and land improvements; 221-site improvements; 222-accumulated depreciation on site improvements; 231-buildings and building improvements; 232-accumulated depreciation on buildings and building improvements; 241-machinery and equipment; 242-accumulated depreciation on machinery and equipment, 251-works of art and historical treasures; 252-accumulated depreciation on works of art and historical treasures, 261-infrastructure, 262-accumulated depreciation on infrastructure, and 271-construction in progress.

Book value - the value of capital assets on the records of the school district, which can be the cost or, the cost less the appropriate allowances, such as depreciation.

Buildings and building improvements - a capital assets account reflecting the addition/acquisition cost of permanent structures owned or held by a government and the improvements thereon.

Business-type activities - one of two classes of activities reported in the government-wide financial statements. Business-type activities are financed in the whole or in part by fees charged to external parties for goods or services. These activities are usually reported in enterprise funds.

Capital expenditures/expenses - expenditures/expenses resulting in the addition/acquisition of or addition/acquisition to the school district's capital assets.

Capital assets - Capital assets with a value of equal to or greater than ($ capitalization threshold) based on the historical cost include: long-lived assets obtained or controlled as a result of past transactions, events or circumstances. Capital assets include buildings, construction in progress, improvements other than facilities, land, machinery and equipment, and intangible assets.

Capitalization policy - the criteria used by the school district to determine which capital assets will be reported as capital assets on the school district's financial statements and records

Capitalization threshold - The dollar value at which a government elects to capitalize tangible or intangible assets that are used in operations and that have initial useful lives extending beyond a single reporting period.

Capitalized interest - interest accrued and reported as part of the cost of the capital assets during the construction phase of a capital project. The construction phase extends from the initiation of pre-construction activities until the time the asset is placed in service.

Construction in progress - buildings in the process of being constructed other than infrastructure.

Cost - the amount of money or other consideration exchanged for goods or services.

Depreciation/Amortization - expiration in the service life of capital assets, other than wasting assets, attributable to wear and tear, deterioration, action of the physical elements, inadequacy and obsolescence. In accounting for depreciation/amortization, the cost of a capital asset, less any salvage value, is prorated over the estimated service life of such an asset, and each period is charged with a portion of such cost.

Fixtures - attachments to buildings that are not intended to be removed and cannot be removed without damage to the buildings. Those fixtures with a useful life presumed to be as long as that of the building itself are considered a part of the building. Other fixtures are classified as machinery and equipment.

General capital assets - capital assets that are not capital assets of any fund, but of the governmental unit as a whole. Most often these capital assets arise from the expenditure of the financial resources of governmental funds.

General capital assets account group (GFAAG) - a self-balancing group of accounts established to account for capital assets of the school district, not accounted for through specific proprietary funds.

Government activities - activities generally financed through taxes, intergovernmental revenues, and other non-exchange revenues. These activities are usually reported in governmental funds and internal service funds.

Government-wide financial statements - Financial statements that incorporate all of a government's governmental and business-type activities, as well as its nonfiduciary component units. There are two basic government-wide financial statements the statement of net assets and the statement of activities. Both basic government-wide financial statements are presented using the economic resources measurement focus and the accrual basis of accounting.

Historical (acquisition) cost - the actual costs expended to place a capital asset into service. For land and buildings, costs such as legal fees, recording fees, surveying fees, architect fees and similar fees are included in the historical cost. For machinery and equipment, costs such as freight and installation fees and similar fees are included in the historical cost.

Improvements - In addition made to, or change made in, a capital asset, other than maintenance, to prolong its life or to increase the efficiency or capacity. The cost of the addition or change is added to the book value of the asset.

Improvements other than buildings - attachments or annexation to land that are intended to remain so attached or annexed, such as sidewalks, trees, drives, tunnels, drains and sewers. Sidewalks, curbing, sewers and highways are sometimes referred to as "betterments," but the term "improvements" is preferred.

Infrastructure - long-lived capital assets that normally are stationary in nature and normally can be preserved for a significantly greater number of years than most capital assets. Examples of infrastructure assets include; roads, bridges, tunnels, drainage systems, water and sewer systems, dams, and lighting systems.

Investment in general capital assets - an account in the GFAAG representing the school district's investment in general capital assets. The balance in this account generally is subdivided according to the source of the monies that finance the capital assets addition/acquisition, such as general fund revenues and special assessments.

Land and buildings - real property owned by the school district.

Machinery and equipment - capital assets which maintain their identity when removed from their location and are not changed materially or consumed immediately (e.g., within one year) by use. Machinery and equipment are often divided into specific categories such as: transportation machinery and equipment which includes school buses and school district owned automobiles, trucks and vans; other motor machinery and equipment which includes lawn maintenance machinery and equipment, tractors, motorized carts, maintenance machinery and equipment, etc.; other machinery and equipment which includes furniture and machinery and equipment contained in the buildings whose original cost is equal to or greater than ($ capitalization threshold), and capital assets under capital leases and capital assets being acquired under a lease/purchase agreement.

Proprietary funds - Funds that focus on the determination of operating income, changes in net assets (or cost recovery), financial position, and cash flows. There are two different types of proprietary funds: enterprise funds and internal service funds.

Replacement cost - the amount of cash or other consideration required today to obtain the same capital assets or its equivalent.

 

 

Approved: 9-13-22                
Reviewed:                  
Revised:         

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:07

708 - Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records

708 - Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records

School district records are housed in the central administration office of the school district. It is the responsibility of the superintendent and board secretary to oversee the maintenance and accuracy of the records. The following records are kept and preserved according to the schedule below:

  • Secretary's financial records

Permanently

  • Treasurer's financial records

Permanently

  • Open meeting minutes of the Board of Directors

Permanently

  • Annual audit reports

Permanently

  • Annual budget

Permanently

  • Permanent record of individual pupils

Permanently

  • School election results

Permanently

  • Real property records (e.g., deeds, abstracts)

Permanently

  • Records of payment of judgments against the school district

20 years

  • Bonds and bond coupons

11 years after maturity, cancellation, transfer, redemption, and/or replacement

  • Written contracts

10 years

  • Cancelled warrants, check stubs, bank
  • statements, bills, invoices, and related record
  • Federal Programs         5 years                      

5 years

  • Recordings and minutes of closed session meetings

1 year

  • Program grants

As determined by the grant

  • Nonpayroll personnel records
  • Employee records, except payroll and salary records         Minimum of 1 year after termination of employment

5 years after leaving district

  • Employment applicant records   Minimum of 1 year after position is filled

 

  • Employee payroll and salary records

Minimum of 3 years after payment

  • School meal programs accounts/records

3 years after submission of the final claim for reimbursement

In the event that any federal or state agency requires a record be retained for a period of time longer than that listed above for audit purposes or otherwise, the record shall be retained beyond the listed period as long as is required for the resolution of the issue by the federal or state agency.

Official personnel records are housed in the central administration office of the school district. These employee records are maintained by the superintendent, the building administrator, the employee's immediate supervisor, and the board secretary.

An inventory of the furniture, equipment, and other non-consumable items other than real property of the school district is conducted annually under the supervision of the superintendent. This report is filed with the business manager.

Permanent records shall be housed in a fire resistant safe or vault or electronically with a secure backup file.  The building administrator is responsible for keeping these records current. Permanent records of students who have graduated or are no longer enrolled in the school district are housed in the central administration office of the school district and will be retained permanently. These records will be maintained by the superintendent. Special education records shall be maintained in accordance with law.

The superintendent may convert school district records to an electronic format and may destroy paper copies of the records once converted.  A properly authenticated electronic reproduction of a paper record meets the same legal requirements as the original record.

 

 

Approved:  11-18-93             
Reviewed:  10-09-05, 11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 11-15-09, 06-11-12, 5-14-18
Revised:  02-16-06, 08-13-12, 12-14-15, 9-13-22
                 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 10:02

709 - Insurance Program

709 - Insurance Program

The board will maintain a comprehensive insurance program to provide adequate coverage against major types of risk, loss, or damage, as well as legal liability.   The board will purchase insurance for the replacement values, when possible, after reviewing the costs and availability of such insurance.   The comprehensive insurance program shall be reviewed once every three years.

The school district will assume the risk of property damage, legal liability, and dishonesty in cases in which the exposure is so small or dispersed that a loss would not significantly affect the operation of the education program or financial condition of the school district.

Insurance of buildings, structures or property in the open will not generally be purchased to cover loss exposures below $1,000 unless such insurance is required by statute or contract. The board may retain a private organization for fixed assets management services.

Insurance will only be purchased through legally licensed Iowa insurance agents.

Administration of the insurance program shall be the responsibility of the superintendent.     The business manager shall also be responsible for making recommendations for additional insurance coverage, placing insurance coverage, and loss prevention activities.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to maintain the fixed assets management system, processing claims, and maintaining loss records.

                

                                           

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 06-11-12, 5-14-18
Revised:  08-13-12, 9-13-22                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:35

710 - School Food Services

710 - School Food Services dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:32

710.1 - School Nutrition Program

710.1 - School Nutrition Program

The school district will operate a school nutrition program in each attendance center.  The school nutrition program will include meals through participation in the National School Lunch Program.  Students may bring their lunches from home and purchase milk and other incidental items.

School nutrition program facilities are provided to serve students and employees when school is in session and during school related activities. They may also be used under the supervision of the head cook for food service to employees groups, parent-teacher meetings, civic organizations meeting for the purpose of better understanding the schools, and senior citizens in accordance with law and board policy.

The school nutrition program is operated on a nonprofit basis. The revenues of the school nutrition program will be used only for the operation or improvement of such programs.  Supplies of the school nutrition program.

The board will set, and annually review, the prices for school nutrition programs.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation regarding the prices of school nutrition programs, in accordance with federal and state law.  

It shall be the responsibility of the Director of Food Service to administer the program and to cooperate with the superintendent and appropriate personnel for the proper functioning of the school nutrition program.

The school district shall comply with all federal and state laws and regulations required for procurement, including the selection and evaluation of contractors.  The superintendent or designee is responsible for developing an administrative process to implement this policy, including, but not limited to, procedures related to suspension and debarment for transactions subject to those requirements and prohibitions on purchasing food products misbranded as meat or egg products, or cultivated-protein food products in accordance with applicable laws.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 06-11-12, 5-14-18                          
Revised:  07-01-92, 8-13-12, 10-9-17, 9-13-22, 8-21-24           

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:34

710.2 - Free and Reduced Cost Meals Eligibility

710.2 - Free and Reduced Cost Meals Eligibility

Students enrolled and attending school in the school district who meet United States Department of Agriculture eligibility guidelines will be provided the school nutrition program services at no cost or at a reduced  price.  The school district shall make reasonable efforts to prevent the overt identification of students who are eligible for free and reduced price meals.

The school district shall at least twice annually notify all families of the availability, eligibility criteria, and application procedures for free or reduced price meals in accordance with state and federal law. 

It is the responsibility of the building principal to determine the eligibility of students for free or reduced price school nutrition programs, in accordance with criteria established by state and federal law.  If school district personnel have knowledge of a student who is in need of free or reduced price meals, school district personnel shall contact the building principal.

If a student owes money for five or more meals, the building principal may contact the student’s parent or guardian to provide information regarding the application for free or reduced price meals.  The school district is encouraged to provide reimbursable meals to students who request reimbursable meals unless the students’ parent or guardian has specifically provided written direction to the school district to withhold a meal from the student. 

Employees will be required to pay for meals consumed.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised:  10-9-17, 7-8-19, 9-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:33

710.3 - Vending Machines

710.3 - Vending Machines

Food and beverages sold individually outside the school nutrition program during the school day will meet the nutritional guidelines established by the school district and as required by state or federal law.  Vending machines in the school building shall be the responsibility of the building administrator.   Purchases from the vending machines, will not be made one-half hour prior to, during or one-half hour after the service of meals unless permission has been granted by the principal.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised: 9-13-22                                                                    

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:33

710.4 - Meal Charges

710.4 - Meal Charges

In accordance with state and federal law, the school district adopts the following policy to ensure school district employees, families, and students have a shared understanding of expectations regarding meal charges. The policy seeks to allow students to receive the nutrition they need to stay focused during the school day, prevent the overt identification of students with insufficient funds to pay for school meals, and maintain the financial integrity of the nonprofit school nutrition program.

Payment of Meals

All meal purchases are to be prepaid before meal service begins. Payment is accepted in the school district office by check or cash and is added to the student account at time of payment. Students who do not have sufficient funds shall not be allowed to charge seconds on meals or a la carte items until additional money is deposited in the student account.

Students who qualify for free meals shall never be denied a reimbursable meal, even if they have accrued a negative balance from previous purchases. Schools are encouraged to provide a reimbursable meal to students with outstanding meal charge debt.  If an alternate meal is provided, the meal must be the same meal presented in the same manner to any student requesting an alternate meal.

Negative Account Balances

The school district will make reasonable efforts to notify families when meal account balances are low. Additionally, the school district will make reasonable efforts to collect unpaid meal charges classified as delinquent debt. The school district will coordinate communications with the student’s parent or guardian to resolve the matter of unpaid charges. Parents or guardians will be notified of a low lunch balance once the balance falls below positive $10.00. Families will be notified by letter, email, and/or text alerts based on their preference of communication. Negative balances of more than $20.00, not paid prior to the end of month will be turned over to the superintendent or designee for collection. Options may include: collection agencies, small claims court or any other legal method permitted by law.

Unpaid Student Meals Account

The school district will establish an unpaid student meals account in a school nutrition fund.  Funds from private sources and funds from the school district flexibility account may be deposited into the unpaid school district meals account in accordance with law.  Funds deposited into this account shall be used only to pay individual student meal debt.

Communication of the Policy

The policy and supporting information regarding meal charges shall be provided in writing to:

  • All households at or before the start of each school year;
  • Students and families who transfer into the school district, at time of transfer; and
  • All staff responsible for enforcing any aspect of the policy.

Records of how and when the policy and supporting information was communicated to households and staff will be retained.

 

 

Approved:  10-9-17                              
Reviewed:  5-14-18                              
Revised:  7-8-19,
9-13-22        

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:32

711 - Transportation

711 - Transportation dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:22

711.1 - Student School Transportation Eligibility

711.1 - Student School Transportation Eligibility

Elementary and middle school students living more than two miles from their designated school attendance center and high school students living more than three miles from their designated attendance center shall receive transportation to and from their attendance center at the expense of the school district.

Transportation of students who require special education services will generally be provided as for other students, when appropriate.  Specialized transportation of a student to and from a special education instructional service is a function of that service and, therefore, an appropriate expenditure of special education instructional funds generated through the weighted funds or IDEA federal funds designated for special education purposes.

Transportation of a student to and from a special education support service is a function of that service, and shall be specified in the individualized education program (IEP) or the individualized family service plan (IFSP).  When the IEP team determines that unique transportation arrangements are required and the arrangements are specified in the IEP or IFSP, the school district will provide one or more of the following transportation arrangements for instructional services and the AEA for support services:

  • Transportation from the student's residence to the location of the special education and back to the student’s residence or child care placement for students below the age of six.
  • Special assistance or adaptations in getting the student to and from and on and off the vehicle, en route to and from the special education location.
  • Reimbursement of the actual costs of transportation when by mutual agreement the parents provide transportation for the student to and from the special education.

The school district is not required to provide reimbursement to parents who elect to provide transportation in lieu of agency-provided transportation.  A student may be required, at the board's discretion, to meet a school vehicle without reimbursement up to three-fourths of a mile.  The board may require the parent to transport their children up to two miles to connect with school bus vehicles at the expense of the school district when conditions deem it advisable.  It is within the discretion of the board to determine such conditions.  Parents of students who live where transportation by bus is impracticable or unavailable may be required to furnish transportation to and from the designated attendance center at the expense of the school district.  Parents, who transport their children at the expense of the school district, shall be reimbursed at the rate per mile set by law.

Transportation arrangements made between a neighboring school district shall follow the terms of the agreement.  Students who choose to attend a school in a school district other than their resident school district shall provide transportation to and from the school at their own expense.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised:  07-01-92, 9-13-22                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:30

711.2 - Conduct on School Transportation

711.2 - Conduct on School Transportation

All persons utilizing school district transportation shall conduct themselves in an orderly manner fitting to their age level and maturity with mutual respect and consideration for the rights of the school district vehicle driver and the other passengers.

The school district vehicle driver shall have the authority to maintain order on the school district vehicle. It shall be the responsibility of the driver to report misconduct to the building administrator.

Students and employees who fail to behave in an orderly manner may be subject to disciplinary measures.  Other persons who fail to behave in an orderly manner may be asked to leave the school district transportation and may no longer be permitted to use the school district transportation.  The building principal has the authority to suspend transportation privileges for students or employees or implement other appropriate discipline.

The board supports the use of video cameras on school vehicles used for transportation to and from school as well as for field trips, curricular or extracurricular events, and other events.  The video cameras will be used to monitor behavior and may be used as evidence in a student or employee disciplinary proceeding or in determining appropriate consequences for other individuals.  The video recordings will be maintained as required by state and federal law.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised: 9-13-22                                                       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:29

711.3 - Student Transportation for Extra Curricular Activities

711.3 - Student Transportation for Extra Curricular Activities

The board, in its discretion, may provide school district transportation for extracurricular activities including, but not limited to, transporting student participants and other students to and from extracurricular events.

Students participating in extracurricular events, other than those held at the school district facilities, may be transported to the extracurricular event by school district transportation vehicles or by another means approved by the superintendent.  Students attending extracurricular events, other than those held at the school district facilities, may be transported to the extracurricular event by school district transportation vehicles.  Students attending extracurricular events outside of Iowa may be transported by school district transportation vehicles.

Students, who are provided transportation in school district transportation vehicles for extracurricular events, shall ride both to and from the event in the school district vehicle unless arrangements have been made with the building principal prior to the event.  A student's parent(s) or guardian(s) may personally appear to the school district vehicle driver and request to transport the student home from a school-sponsored event in which the student traveled to the event on a school district transportation vehicle.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board annually as to whether the school district shall provide the transportation authorized in this policy.  In making the recommendation to the board, the superintendent shall consider the financial condition of the school district, the number of students who would qualify for such transportation, and other factors the board or superintendent deem relevant.

 

 

Approved:                              
Reviewed:  11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised:  7-1-92, 9-13-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:28

711.4 - Summer School Program Transportation Service

711.4 - Summer School Program Transportation Service

The school district may use school district vehicles for transportation to and from summer extracurricular activities.  The superintendent shall make a recommendation to the board annually regarding their use.

Transportation to and from the student's attendance center for summer school instructional programs shall be within the discretion of the board.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation regarding transportation of students in summer school instructional programs at the expense of the school district.  In making the recommendation to the board, the superintendent shall consider the financial condition of the school district, the number of students involved in summer school programs, and other factors deemed relevant by the board or the superintendent.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised: 9-13-22                                                       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:27

711.5 - Transportation of Nonresident and Nonpublic School Students

711.5 - Transportation of Nonresident and Nonpublic School Students

The board has sole discretion to determine the method to be utilized for transporting nonresident and nonpublic students.   Nonresident students paying tuition may be, and resident students attending a nonpublic school accredited by the State Department of Education, will be transported on an established public school vehicle route as long as such transportation does not interfere with resident public students' transportation.  Nonresident and nonpublic school students shall obtain the permission of the superintendent prior to being transported by the school district.

Parents of resident students who provide transportation for their children attending a nonpublic school accredited by the State Department of Education will be reimbursed at the established state rate.  This reimbursement shall be paid only if the school district receives the funds from the state.  If less than the amount of funds necessary to fully reimburse parents of the nonpublic students is received by the school district, the funds shall be prorated.

The charge to the nonresident students may be determined based on the student's pro rata share of the actual costs for transportation.  The parents of these students shall be billed for the student's share of the actual costs of transportation.  The billing shall be according to the schedule developed by the superintendent.   It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to determine the amount to be charged and report it to the business manager for billing.

Continued transportation of nonresident and nonpublic school students on a public school vehicle route will be subject to resident public school students' transportation needs.  The superintendent shall make a recommendation annually to the board regarding the method to be used.  In making a recommendation to the board, the superintendent shall consider the number of students to be transported, the capacity of the school district vehicles, the financial condition of the school district, and other factors deemed relevant by the board or the superintendent.

Nonresident and nonpublic school students shall be subject to the same conduct regulations as resident public students as prescribed by board policy, and to other policies, rules or regulations developed by the school district regarding transportation of students by the school district.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  11-09-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 06-12, 5-14-18
Revised:  08-13-12, 9-13-22                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:26

711.6 - Transportation of Nonschool Groups

711.6 - Transportation of Nonschool Groups

School district vehicles will be available to local nonprofit entities which promote cultural, educational, civic, community or recreational activities for transporting to and from non-school-sponsored activities within the state as long as the transportation does not interfere with or disrupt the education program of the school district and does not interfere with or delay the transportation of students.  The local nonprofit entity must pay the cost of using the school district vehicle as determined by the board.  Prior to making the school district transportation vehicle available to the local nonprofit entity, the school bus signs shall be covered and the flashing warning lamps and the stop arm made inoperable.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for use of school district transportation vehicles to transport students and others to school-sponsored events within the state and for application for, use of, and payment for using the school district transportation vehicles by local nonprofit entities for a non-school-sponsored activity.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised: 9-13-22                                                       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:26

711.7 - School Bus Safety Instruction

711.7 - School Bus Safety Instruction

The school district shall conduct school bus safe riding practices instruction and emergency safety drills at least twice during the school year for students who utilize school district transportation.

Each school district bus vehicle shall have, in addition to the regular emergency safety drill, a plan for helping those students who require special assistance to safety during an emergency. This shall include, but not be limited to, disabled students.

School district vehicle drivers are required to attend each safety drill.

Employees shall be responsible for instructing the proper techniques to be followed during an emergency, as well as safe riding practices.

All school district personnel and designees must wear seat belts while operating school district and private vehicles for school district functions.  All school district personnel must use the tire protective cage when inflating or deflating a tire used on school district buses and tractors.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-9-99, 11-12-02, 12-12-05, 01-15-09, 5-14-18
Revised: 9-13-22                                                       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:25

711.8 - Transportation in Inclement Weather

711.8 - Transportation in Inclement Weather

School district buses will not operate when weather conditions due to fog, rain, snow, ice or other natural elements make it unsafe to do so.  Because weather conditions may vary throughout the school district and may change quickly, the best judgment possible will be used with the information available.

The final judgment as to when conditions are unsafe to operate will be made by the superintendent.  The superintendent may be assisted by the actual on location decisions and reports of the drivers.

Several drivers each year may be specially designated to report weather and road conditions via the bus communication system, when requested to do so.  Other drivers and students will be notified by commercial radio, local television stations, and school district alerts when school is cancelled or temporarily delayed.  When school is cancelled because of weather anywhere in the school district, all schools will be closed.

When weather conditions deteriorate during the day after school has begun, cancellation notices will be announced by commercial radio, local television stations, and school district alerts.  Students will be returned to their regular drop-off sites unless weather conditions prevent it.  In that case, students will be kept at or returned to school until they are picked up by the parents.

When, in the judgment of the driver, weather conditions are so poor as to present a hazard when loading or unloading students, the driver will radio the superintendent for instructions.  If the superintendent is not available, the driver will exercise the best judgment under the circumstances to address the situation.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  10-09-95, 11-09-99, 11-12-02, 06-11-12, 5-14-18
Revised:  03-09-09, 08-13-12, 9-13-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:24

711.9 - Vehicle Idling

711.9 - Vehicle Idling

The board recognizes that it has a role in reducing environmental pollutants and in assisting students and others be free from pollutants that may impact their respiratory health.  Unnecessary vehicle idling emits pollutants and wastes fuel.  Therefore, the board encourages all individuals operating school district vehicles to limit the time the vehicle is idling.

 

 

Approved:  9-13-22               
Reviewed:                       
Revised:     

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:22

711.10 - School Bus Passenger Restraints

711.10 - School Bus Passenger Restraints

The school district shall utilize three-point lap-shoulder belts on school district buses as required by state law.  All three-point lap-shoulder belts available on school district buses will be used by passengers when the vehicle is in any non-stationary gear.

All students will receive instruction on the proper use of seat belts during the twice annual bus safety drills.  Students who may require assistance in using seat belts should ask the bus driver for help, so that all students are safely belted in their seat before the bus is in motion. Drivers will announce prior to the bus leaving that each student needs to be in their seat with the seat belt fastened.

Students refusing to use seat belts create a safety concern for themselves and others and are subject to school district disciplinary actions. Repeated refusal to wear seat belts can result in suspension from bus riding privileges.

 

 

Approved:  9-13-22               
Reviewed:                       
Revised:     

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 09/22/2022 - 09:23

713- Responsible Technology Use & Social Networking

713- Responsible Technology Use & Social Networking

713

Responsible Technology Use & Social Networking

Computers, electronic devices and other technology are powerful and valuable education and research tools and, as such, are an important part of the instructional program. In addition, the school district depends upon technology as an integral part of administering and managing the schools’ resources, including the compilation of data and recordkeeping for personnel, students, finances, supplies and materials. This policy outlines the board’s expectations in regard to these different aspects of the school district’s technology resources. Students, staff and volunteers must conduct themselves in a manner that does not disrupt the educational process and failure to do so may result in discipline, up to and including student discipline under all relevant district policies and discharge for employees. 

General Provisions

The superintendent is responsible for designating a Technology Director who will oversee the use of school district technology resources. The Technology Director will prepare in-service programs for the training and development of school district staff and relevant volunteers in technology skills, appropriate use of district technology and for the incorporation of technology use in subject areas.

The superintendent, working with appropriate staff, shall establish regulations governing the use and security of the school district’s technology resources. The school district will make every reasonable effort to maintain the security of the district networks and devices. All users of the school district’s technology resources, including students, staff and volunteers, shall comply with this policy and regulation, as well as others impacting the use of school equipment and facilities. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, up to and including discharge or expulsion, as well as suspension and/or revocation of technology access privileges.

Usage of the school district’s technology resources is a privilege, not a right, and that use entails responsibility. District-owned technology and district-maintained Internet-based collaboration software social media and e-mail accounts are the property of the school district. Therefore, users of the school district’s network must not expect, nor does the school district guarantee, privacy for use of the school district’s network websites visited. The school district reserves the right to access and view any material stored on school district equipment, within district-owned software or any material used in conjunction with the school district’s network.

The superintendent, working with the appropriate staff, shall establish procedures governing management of technology records in order to exercise appropriate control over technology records, including financial, personnel and student information. The procedures will address at a minimum:  

  • passwords,
  • system administration,
  • separation of duties,
  • remote access, 
  • data back-up (including archiving of e-mail),
  • record retention, and
  • disaster recovery plans.

 

Social Networking or Other External Web Sites

For purposes of this policy, any website, other than the school district website or school-school district sanctioned websites, are considered external websites. Employees and volunteers shall not post confidential or proprietary information, including photographic images, about the school district, its employees, students, agents or others on any external website without prior written consent of the superintendent. Employees and volunteers shall adhere to all applicable privacy and confidentiality policies adopted by the school district when on external websites. Employees, students and volunteers shall not use the school district logos, images, iconography, etc. on external websites unless authorized in advance by school administration. Employees shall not use school district time or property on external sites that are not in direct relation to the employee’s job duties. Employees, students and volunteers need to realize that the internet is not a closed system and anything posted on an external site may be viewed by others. Employees, students and volunteers who don’t want school administrators to know their personal information, should refrain from sharing it on the internet. Employees and volunteers should not connect with students via external websites without consent of the  building level administrator.

Employees and volunteers who wish to connect with students through an Internet-based software application that is not District-approved must first obtain the prior written consent of the building administrator.  At all times, no less than two licensed employees must have access to all accounts and interactions on the software application. Employees and volunteers who would like to start a social media site for school district-sanctioned activities should obtain prior written consent from the superintendent. 

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

Approved : 07-17-24 Reviewed:  Revise

awoods@gt.rati… Fri, 07/19/2024 - 08:31

713R.1- Responsible Technology Use & Social Networking-Regulations

713R.1- Responsible Technology Use & Social Networking-Regulations

713R.1

Responsible Technology Use & Social Networking - Regulation

General

The following rules and regulations govern the use of the school district's network systems, employee access to the internet, and management of digital records:

  • Employees will be issued a school district e-mail account. Passwords must be changed periodically. 
  • Each individual in whose name an access account is issued is responsible at all times for its proper use.
  • Employees are expected to review their e-mail regularly and shall reply promptly to inquiries with information that the employee can reasonably be expected to provide.
  • Communications with parents and/or students must be made on a school district computer, unless in the case of an emergency. 
  • Employees may access the internet for education-related and/or work-related activities.
  • Employees shall refrain from using technology resources for personal use, including access to social networking sites.
  • Use of the school district technology and school e-mail address is a public record. Employees cannot have an expectation of privacy in the use of the school district’s  network and technology
  • Use of technology resources in ways that violate the acceptable use and conduct regulation, outlined below, will be subject to discipline, up to and including discharge.
  • Use of the school district’s network is a privilege, not a right.  Inappropriate use may result in the suspension or revocation of that privilege.
  • Off-site access to the school district network will be determined by the superintendent in conjunction with appropriate personnel. 
  • All network users are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. This includes being polite and using only appropriate language. Abusive language, vulgarities and swear words are all inappropriate.
  • Network users identifying a security problem on the school district's network must notify appropriate staff. Any network user identified as a security risk or having a history of violations of school district technology use guidelines may be denied access to the school district's network.
  • Employees are representatives of the district at all times and must model appropriate character, both on and off the worksite.  This applies to material posted with personal devices and on personal websites and/or social media accounts.  Posted messages or pictures which diminish the professionalism or discredit the capacity to maintain respect of students and parents may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination if the content posted is found to be disruptive to the educational environment and adversely  impacts the employee’s ability to effectively serve as a role model or perform his/her job duties for the district.  The type of material that would affect an employee’s ability to serve as an appropriate role model includes, but is not limited to, text or depictions involving hate speech, nudity, obscenity, vulgarity or sexually explicit content.  Employee communications with students should be limited as appropriate.  If there is any uncertainty, employees should consult their building administrator.

Prohibited Activity and Uses

The following is a list of prohibited activity for all employees concerning use of the school district's network.  Any violation of these prohibitions may result in discipline, up to and including discharge, or other appropriate penalty, including suspension or revocation of a user's access to the network.

  • Using the network for commercial activity, including advertising, or personal gain.
  • Infringing on any copyrights or other intellectual property rights, including copying, installing, receiving, transmitting or making available any copyrighted software on the school district network. See Policy 605.07, Use of Information Resources for more information.
  • Using the network to receive, transmit or make available to others obscene, offensive, or sexually explicit material
  • Using the network to receive, transmit or make available to others messages that are racist, sexist, and abusive or harassing to others.
  • Use of another’s account or password.
  • Attempting to read, delete, copy or modify the electronic mail (e-mail) of other system users.
  • Forging or attempting to forge e-mail messages.
  • Engaging in vandalism. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy school district equipment or materials, data of another user of the school district’s network or of any of the entities or other networks that are connected to the Internet. This includes, but is not limited to, creating and/or placing a virus on the network.
  • Using the network to send anonymous messages or files.
  • Revealing the personal address, telephone number or other personal information of oneself or another person.
  • Intentionally disrupting network traffic or crashing the network and connected systems.
  • Installing personal software or using personal technology on the school district’s technology and/or network without the permission of the Technology Director.
  • Using the network in a fashion inconsistent with directions from teachers and other staff and generally accepted network etiquette.

Other Technology Issues

Employees should contact students and their parents through the school district's technology or phone system unless in the case of an emergency or with prior consent of the principal. Employees should not release their cell phone number, personal e-mail address, etc. to students or their parents.

 

awoods@gt.rati… Fri, 07/19/2024 - 08:33

800 - BUILDING SITES

800 - BUILDING SITES Jen@iowaschool… Tue, 11/23/2021 - 07:55

800 - Objectives of Buildings and Sites

800 - Objectives of Buildings and Sites

This series of the board policy manual sets forth the board objectives and goals for the school district’s building and sites.  It shall be the goal of the board to provide sufficient school district buildings and sites for the education program.  The board shall strive to provide an environment which will encourage and support learning.

In providing this environment the school district buildings and sites will accommodate the organizational and instructional patterns that support the educational program.  The board shall have the final authority to determine what is necessary to meet the education program.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to oversee the day-to-day operations of the school district buildings and sites and to bring to the board’s attention areas in need of improvement.

 

 

Approve:  7-1-92                   
Reviewed:  12-15-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 4-9-07, 1-19-13, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 13:04

801 - Site Acquisition and Building Construction

801 - Site Acquisition and Building Construction dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:58

801.1 - Building and Sites Long Range Planning

801.1 - Building and Sites Long Range Planning

As part of the board's long range plan for the school district's education program, the board shall include the needs for the education program in the area of buildings and sites.  The long term needs for building and sites shall be discussed and determined by the board.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to provide information including, but not limited to, enrollment projections and education program requirements to the board.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-11-93, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 
6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 13:03

801.2 - Buildings and Sites Surveys

801.2 - Buildings and Sites Surveys

The board may engage the services of consultants or other personnel to study the needs of the school district's buildings and sites in providing the education program.  The results of these services will be considered in planning the education program and in making decisions about the improvement and acquisition of additional buildings and sites.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board regarding the need for such services and who should perform such services for the board.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92            
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 13:06

801.3 - Educational Specifications for Buildings and Sites

801.3 - Educational Specifications for Buildings and Sites

Buildings and sites considered for purchase or construction by the board or currently owned by the school district and used for the education program must meet, or upon improvement be able to meet, the specifications set by the board.  The board will make this determination.

Prior to remodeling or other construction of buildings and sites, the board may appoint a committee of consultants, employees, citizens or others to assist the board in developing the specifications for the new or improved buildings and sites.  These specifications will be consistent with the education program, and they will provide the architect with the information necessary to determine what is expected from the facility.  It is within the discretion of the board to determine whether a committee is appointed.

The education specifications will include, but not be limited to, the financial resources available for the project, the definition and character of classrooms, the functional use to be made of the rooms, description of specialized needs, and other pertinent information as the board deems necessary.

The district will publish on the district website information related to the square footage of each school building owned by the district; enrollment capacity of each attendance center owned by the district; how the building is currently utilized by the district, and school buildings owned by the district that are vacant.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board regarding the specifications of buildings and sites.

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  10-14-0, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  12-08-03, 7-11-22, 8-21-24

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 13:07

801.4 - Selection of an Architect

801.4 - Selection of an Architect

The board shall have the authority to select the architect to provide architectural  services.  The financial condition of the school district, the ability of the architect to meet the specifications of the board and any other applicable specifications, the experience of the architect, and other factors deems relevant by the board may be considered by the board in the selection of an architect.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14                         
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 13:05

801.5 - Site Acquisition

801.5 - Site Acquisition

Sites acquired by the board shall meet or, upon improvement, be able to meet the specifications set out by the board prior to using the site for the education program.  The board may meet in closed session to discuss potential purchases of sites.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to assist the board and to make recommendations concerning the acquisition of sites.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 13:02

801.6 - Life Cycle Analysis

801.6 - Life Cycle Analysis

Prior to finalization of plans for the construction of new buildings or for major remodeling of existing buildings and sites, a life cycle cost analysis shall be prepared.  The life cycle analysis shall be approved by the board before contracts for construction or renovation are let.

The analysis will consider certain costs of owning, using, and operating a building over its economic life.  Other factors the analysis will include, but not be limited to, are the initial costs, system repair and replacement costs, maintenance costs, operating costs, including energy costs, and salvage value.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to have this analysis prepared.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92            
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 13:01

801.7 - Award of Construction Contracts

801.7 - Award of Construction Contracts

The board supports economic development in Iowa, particularly in the school district community. Purchases by the school district shall be made in Iowa for Iowa goods and services from locally-owned businesses located within the school district community or from Iowa-based companies which offer goods or services if the cost and other considerations are relatively equal and they meet the required specifications.

Public, competitive sealed bids are required for construction projects, including renovation and repair, with a cost exceeding the statutory minimums required by law.  The public, competitive sealed bid requirement is waived in the case of emergency repairs when the repairs are necessary to prevent the closing of a school.  The Area Education Agency administrator will certify that the emergency repairs are necessary to prevent the closing of a school.  The superintendent will comply with the competitive quotation process for those projects subject to the competitive quotation law.  The superintendent will determine the process for obtaining quotations for projects below the competitive quotation limit.  The superintendent will recommend to the board a quotation for the project for approval subject to the legal requirements governing the award of contracts based upon quotations.

 

The award of construction contracts will, generally, be made to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder.  The board, in its discretion, after considering factors relating to the construction, including, but not limited to, the cost of the construction, availability of service and/or repair, completion date, and any other factors deemed relevant by the board, may choose a bid other than the lowest bid or quotation.  The board shall have the right to reject any or all bids or quotations, or any part thereof, to waive informalities, and to enter into the contract or contracts deemed to be in the best interests of the school district.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board regarding which bid or quotation to accept and the reason for the superintendent’s recommendation.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92            
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:58

801.8 - Financing Sites and Construction

801.8 - Financing Sites and Construction

The board shall, as needed, use any means of financing construction and site purchases provided for under law.  The board may also use money received from gifts, conations, and bequests and money derived from the sale of school district buildings and/or sites.

 

 

Approved:7-1-92                   
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Reviewed:  7-11-22                                                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:59

801.9 - Supervision of Construction

801.9 - Supervision of Construction

Construction authorized by the board must be supervised for proper execution. The board may tour the completed construction area before allowing final payment on the project.

It shall be the responsibility of the person designated by the board to supervise construction projects of the school district as they are completed. The superintendent shall be responsible for providing the board with progress reports at each meeting until the construction is completed and shall work closely with the individual and/or entity supervising construction projects.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 1-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 13:00

802 - Maintenance and Operation Management

802 - Maintenance and Operation Management dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:41

802.1 - Maintenance Schedule

802.1 - Maintenance Schedule

The school district buildings and sites, including the grounds, buildings, and equipment, will be kept clean and in good repair.  Employees should notify the building principal when something is in need of repair or removal, including graffiti.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in cooperation with administration, faculty, and maintenance personnel, to maintain the school district buildings and sites.  As part of this responsibility, a maintenance schedule shall be created and adhered to in compliance with this policy.

 

 

Approved: 7-1-92            
Reviewed :  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:57

802.2 - Requests for Improvements

802.2 - Requests for Improvements

Generally, except for emergency situations, requests for improvements or repairs shall be made to the superintendent by building principals and the head of maintenance. Requirements for requests outlined in the maintenance schedule shall be followed.

Minor improvements, not exceeding a cost of $2,000, may be approved by the superintendent. Improvements exceeding $2,000 must be approved by the board. Routine maintenance and repairs outlined in the maintenance schedule shall be followed.

 

 

Approved:  5-14-90               
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-49-10, 6-11-14
Reviewed:  7-11-22                                                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:55

802.3 - Emergency Repairs

802.3 - Emergency Repairs

In the event an emergency requiring repairs in excess of the statutory minimums required by law, to a school district facility are necessary to correct or control the situation and to prevent the closing of school, the provisions relating to bidding shall not apply.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to obtain certification from the Area Education Agency administrator stating such repairs were necessary to prevent the closing of school.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to notify the board as soon as possible considering the circumstances of the emergency.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92            
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-00, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:56

802.4 - Buildings and Sites Adaptation for Persons with Disabilities

802.4 - Buildings and Sites Adaptation for Persons with Disabilities

The board recognizes the need for access to its buildings and sites by persons with disabilities.  School district buildings and sites currently in use shall be altered to be accessible to persons with disabilities unless the alteration would cause an undue hardship for the school district.  Renovated and new buildings and sites will be accessible to persons with disabilities.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, upon board approval, to take the necessary action to ensure school district buildings and sites are accessible to the persons with disabilities.

 

 

Approved:   7-1-92    
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 1-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:48

802.5 - Vandalism

802.5 - Vandalism

The board believes everyone should treat school district buildings and sites and property with respect for the benefit of the education program.  Users of school district property shall treat it with care.  Employees discovering vandalism should report it to the building principal as soon as possible.

Persons suspected, found or proven to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school district property may be subject to discipline by the school district.  If the person is under the jurisdiction of the school district, they may be reported to local law enforcement officials.  Persons who are not under the jurisdiction of the school district and who are suspected, found or proven to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school district property shall be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:47

802.6 - Energy Conservation

802.6 - Energy Conservation

In concert with the board's goal to utilize public funds in an effective and efficient manner, employees and students shall practice energy conservation methods when utilizing the school district's buildings and sites.  These methods include, but are not limited to, turning off lights and equipment when not in use, appropriately regulating the temperature of the facility, particularly when it is not in use, and keeping windows and doors properly closed or open, depending on weather conditions.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop guidelines for employees and students for energy conservation.  It shall be the responsibility of employees and students to abide by these guidelines.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:46

802.7 - Contract for Maintenance Services

802.7 - Contract for Maintenance Services

The board may contract for custodial and other maintenance services for the school district buildings and sites.  The superintendent is authorized to contract for such services.   Except in the case of emergency, the board shall approve the contracts for these services if the cost exceeds $2,000.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to consider the financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the superintendent in making such contracts.

 

 

Approved:   7-1-92         
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13- 00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07,01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:
  7-11-22                                            

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:45

803 - Selling and Leasing

803 - Selling and Leasing dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:39

803.1 - Disposition of Obsolete Equipment

803.1 - Disposition of Obsolete Equipment

School district property, such as equipment, furnishings, or supplies (hereafter equipment), will be disposed of when it is determined to be of no further use to the school district.  It shall be the objective of the school district in disposing of the equipment to achieve the best available price or most economical disposal.

Equipment having a value of less than $25,000 will be disposed of in a manner determined by the superintendent or designee.  The disposal of equipment in this manner will be published in a newspaper having general circulation in the school district.

A public hearing will be held regarding the disposal of equipment with a value of $25,000 or more prior to the board’s final decision.  The board will adopt a resolution announcing the proposed disposal and will publish notice of the time and place of the public hearing. A description of the property will be in the resolution.  Notice of the public hearing will be published at least once, but not less than ten (10) days and not more than twenty (20) days prior to the hearing date.  Upon completion of the public hearing, the board may make a final determination on the proposal contained in the resolution.

Proceeds from the sale or disposition of equipment will be deposited into the fund which was used to account for the acquisition of the equipment.  If the school district is unable to determine which fund was used to account for the acquisition of the equipment or if the fund no longer exists in the school district, the proceeds from the sale or disposition of equipment will be placed in the general fund.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92            
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 4-9-07, 1-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:40

803.2 - Lease, Sale or Disposal of School District Buildings and Sites

803.2 - Lease, Sale or Disposal of School District Buildings and Sites

Decisions regarding the lease, sale, or disposal of school district real property shall be made by the board. In making its decision the board will consider the needs of the education program and the efficient use of public funds.

Before the board may authorize disposition of real property by sale, gift or lease for a period of more than one year, a public hearing will be held.  The board will adopt a resolution announcing the proposed sale which will contain notice of the time and place of the public hearing and the description of the property or locally known address.  Notice of the time and place of the public hearing will be published at least once, but not less than ten (10) days and not more than twenty (20) days, prior to the hearing date.  Upon completion of the public hearing, the board may authorize disposition of the property in accordance with the proposal reviewed during the public hearing.

The board may market and authorize the sale of any student constructed buildings by any procedure recommended by the superintendent and authorized by the board, and the public hearing requirement contained in this policy will not apply to the sale of student constructed buildings. The public hearing requirement in this policy will also not apply to the lease of school district real property for a period of one year or less or to the lease of a portion of an existing school building for any term.

If the real property contains less than two acres, is located outside of a city, is not adjacent to a city, and was previously used as a schoolhouse site, the property may revert to the owner of the tract from whom the property was taken following the procedures set forth in Iowa Code §§ 297.15-.25.

The board will not enter into an agreement to prohibit the sale of real property to other educational institutions as defined in Iowa Code 297.24.  If the board offers to sell real property that includes a building or structure, and an educational institution offers to purchase the real property for a purchase price that represents the highest bid the board received, the board will sell the real property to the other educational institution for such purchase price.

In the case of the razing of a school district facility, in an amount in excess of the statutory minimum required by law, the board will advertise and take bids or quotes as may be required and defined by Iowa Code 26 for the purpose of awarding the contract for the project.

The superintendent shall be responsible for coordinating the action necessary for the board to accomplish the lease, sale or disposal of school district real property, including student-constructed buildings.  It shall also be the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board regarding the use of school district real property not being utilized for the education program

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22, 8-21-24                                                       

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:39

804 - Safety Program

804 - Safety Program dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:32

804.1 - Facilities Inspections

804.1 - Facilities Inspections

A program for annual inspection, in addition to those conducted by authorized agencies, of the equipment, facilities, and grounds shall be conducted as part of the maintenance schedule for school district buildings and sites.  The results of this inspection shall be reported to the board at its annual meeting.  Further, the board may carry out its own inspection of the school district buildings and sites annually.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:38

804.2 - Warning System and Emergency Plans

804.2 - Warning System and Emergency Plans

The school district shall maintain a warning system designed to inform students, employees, and visitors in the facilities of an emergency.  This system shall be maintained on a regular basis under the maintenance plan for school district buildings and sites.

Students shall be informed of this system according to board policy.  Each classroom and office shall have a plan for helping those in need of assistance to safety during an emergency. This shall include, but not be limited to, students with disabilities and employees with disabilities.

Licensed employees shall be responsible for instructing the proper techniques to be followed during an emergency.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14 
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:37

804.3 - Facilities Security

804.3 - Facilities Security

To protect the school district buildings and sites and equipment, the facilities shall be locked when school is not in session.  When school activities or public activities are held in the school district facilities, only the main entrance doors, as determined by the superintendent and the building principals, shall be unlocked for access to the school district facilities.

It shall be the responsibility of employees and users of the school district facilities to abide by this policy.

 

 

Approved;  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:34

804.4 - Bomb Threats

804.4 - Bomb Threats

As soon as a bomb threat is reported to the administration, the  potentially affected area should be cleared immediately. A thorough search will be made by the appropriate school district or law enforcement officials.  Employees and students shall remain outside the potentially affected area until it is determined that the danger no longer exists.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to file a report or keep a report of each incident for the school district records.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:36

804.5 - Asbestos Containing Material

804.5 - Asbestos Containing Material

The board will implement the rules of the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) and provide the necessary funding to implement the response actions as required.  The board will appoint a designated person as required as well as provide required training for maintenance and custodial works.  Each school district building will maintain a copy of the school district’s asbestos management plan.

Friable and non-friable asbestos containing materials will be maintained in good condition and appropriate precautions will be followed when the material is disturbed.       If there is a need to replace asbestos it will be replaced with non-asbestos containing materials.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-11-95, 11-13-00, 10-14-03, 04-09-07, 01-19-10, 6-11-14
Revised:  7-11-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 08/24/2022 - 12:33

900 - SCHOOL & COMMUNITY RELATIONS

900 - SCHOOL & COMMUNITY RELATIONS Jen@iowaschool… Tue, 11/23/2021 - 07:55

900 - Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

900 - Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

Successful education programs require the support of the school district community. The board addresses the importance of the role of the school district community in the school district in this series of the policy manual.  The board recognizes this support is dependent on the school district community's understanding of participation in the efforts, goals, problems, and programs of the school district.

In this section, the board sets out its policies defining its relationship with the school district community.  In striving to obtain the support of the school district community, the board will:

  • Provide access to school district records;
  • Inform the school district community of the school district's goals, objectives, achievements, and needs;
  • Invite the advice and counsel of the school district community; and,

•         Encourage cooperation between the school district and the school district community as well as agencies and organizations to best serve the welfare of its students.

The school district should maintain open communication among the school district, the public, and public agencies.  The superintendent shall be responsible for initiating and administering a continuous program of communication within the community.  The superintendent shall make use of appropriate school district personnel and all available media in discharging this responsibility.

 

 

Approved:  7-01-92               
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 01-09-06, 02-05-09, 12-14-15
Revised:  5-17-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:33

901 - Public Examination of School District Records

901 - Public Examination of School District Records

Public records of the school district may be viewed by the public during the regular business hours of the administration offices of the school district.  These hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for holidays and recesses.     

Persons wishing to view the school district's public records will contact board secretary and make arrangements for the viewing.  The board secretary will make arrangements for viewing the records as soon as practicable, depending on the nature of the request.

Persons may request copies of public records by telephone or in writing, including electronically.  Persons wanting copies of public records may be assessed a fee for copies.  The school district may require pre-payment of the costs prior to copy and mailing.

Persons wanting compilation of information may be assessed a fee for the time to compile the requested information.  Printing of materials for the public at the expense of the school district will only occur when the event is sponsored by the school district.

It is the responsibility of the board secretary to maintain accurate and current records of the school district.  It is the responsibility of the board secretary to respond in a timely manner to requests for viewing and receiving public information of the school district.

 

 

Approved:  01-07-92             
Reviewed:  12-09-02, 09-20-05, 01-09-06, 02-05-09, 06-11-12, 12-14-15
Revised: 09-19-06, 08-13-12 , 5-17-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:29

902 - Press, Radio and Television News Media

902 - Press, Radio and Television News Media dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:27

902.1 - News Media Relations

902.1 - News Media Relations

The board recognizes the value of and supports open, fair, and honest communication with the news media.  The board will maintain a cooperative relationship with the news media.  As part of this cooperative relationship, the board and the media will develop a means for sharing information while respecting each party’s limitations.

Members of the news media are encouraged and welcome to attend open board meetings.  The board president shall be the spokesperson for the board and the superintendent shall be the spokesperson for the school district.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in consultation with the board president, to respond to inquiries from the news media about the school district.

Members of the news media seeking information about the school district shall direct their inquiries to the superintendent.   The superintendent shall accurately and objectively provide the facts and the board positions in response to inquiries from the news media about the school district.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 01-09-06, 02-05-09, 12-14-15              
Revised:  5-17-22                              

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:30

902.2 - News Conferences and Interviews

902.2 - News Conferences and Interviews

The board president on behalf of the board and the superintendent on behalf of the school district, may hold a news conference or respond to a request for an interview with the news media. It is the responsibility of the board president and the superintendent to keep the board apprised of news conferences and interviews.

News conferences and interviews planned or prearranged for school district activities may include a representative of the board and the superintendent.   News conferences for issues requiring an immediate response may be held by the superintendent. It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether a news conference or interview shall be held to provide an immediate response to an issue.

 

School district personnel will refer interview requests and information requests from the news media to the superintendent.  School district personnel may be interviewed or provide information about school district matters only after receiving permission from the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee.  It will be within the discretion of the superintendent to allow the news media to interview and to receive information from school district personnel.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92             
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 01-09-06, 02-05-09, 12-14-15
Revised:  5-17-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:32

902.3 - News Releases

902.3 - News Releases

The superintendent, in consultations with the board president when appropriate, shall determine when a news release about internal school district and board matters will be made.  In making this determination, the superintendent shall strive to keep the media and the school district community accurately and objectively informed.  Further, the superintendent shall strive to create and maintain a positive image for the school district.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to approve news releases originating within the school district prior to their release.

News releases will be prepared and disseminated to news media in the school district community.  Questions about news releases shall be made to the superintendent.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92     
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 01-09-06, 02-05-09, 12-14-15
Revised:  5-17-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:34

902.4 - Students and the News Media

902.4 - Students and the News Media

Generally, students may not be interviewed during the school day by news media. The students shall refer interview requests and information requests from the news media to the central administration office in their building.

It shall be within the discretion of the principal, after consulting with the superintendent, to allow or disallow the news media to interview and to receive information from the student while the student is under the control of the school district.  The superintendent and/or principal may contact the student's parents regarding a request from the news media to interview a student.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 01-09-06, 02-05-09, 12-14-15
Revised:  5-17-22                                           

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:28

902.5 - Live Broadcasting or Recording of School District Events

902.5 - Live Broadcasting or Recording of School District Events

Individuals may broadcast or record public school district events, including open board meetings, as long as it does not interfere with or disrupt the school district event and it does not create an undue burden in adapting the buildings and sites to accommodate the request.

It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether the request is unduly burdensome and whether the broadcast or recording will interfere with or disrupt the school district event.

Recording of classroom activities will be allowed at the discretion of the superintendent.  Parents will be notified prior to recording of classroom activities.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-9-02, 01-09-06, 02-05-09, 12-14-15
Revised:  5-17-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:27

903 - Public Participation in the School District

903 - Public Participation in the School District dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:19

903.1 - School - Community Groups

903.1 - School - Community Groups

The board values the participation and the support of school district - community groups, including, but not limited to, the Booster Club, the Music Parents, and parent-teacher organizations, which strive for the betterment of the school district and the education program.  The board will work closely with these groups.

Prior to any purchase of, or fund-raising for, the purchase of goods or services for the school district, the group shall confer with the superintendent to assist the group in purchasing goods or services to meet the school district’s needs.

Funds raised by these groups for the school district may be kept as part of the accounts of the school district.

It shall be the responsibility of the building principal and/or activity director to be the liaison with the school district – community groups affiliated with the building principal's attendance center.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 01-09-06, 023-05-06, 12-14-15
Revised:  5-17-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:26

903.2 - Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

903.2 - Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

The board recognizes the valuable resource it has in the members of the school district community. When possible and in concert with the education program, members of the school district community shall be asked to make presentations to the students or to assist employees in duties other than teaching when volunteering would be appropriate considering the needs of the educational program.  The volunteer may be asked to agree to an appropriate background check as a condition of serving as a volunteer.  The school district shall officially recognize the contributions made by volunteers on an annual basis.

Recruitment, training, utilization, and the maintenance of records for the purposes of insurance coverage and/or recognition of school volunteers is the responsibility of the superintendent.

 

 

Approved: 7-1-92                  
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 01-09-06, 02-05-09, 12-14-15                       
Revised:  5-17-22                                                                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:24

903.3 - Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites

903.3 - Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites

The board welcomes the interest of parents and other members of the school district community, and invites them to visit the school district buildings and sites. Visitors, which include persons other than employees or students, must notify the principal of their presence in the facility upon arrival and sign in.  Visitors who do not notify the principal of their presence in school district buildings or on sites may be considered trespassers.

Persons who wish to visit a classroom while school is in session are asked to notify the principal and obtain approval from the principal prior to the visit so appropriate arrangements can be made and so class disruption can be minimized.  Teachers and other employees shall not take time from their duties to discuss matters with visitors.

Visitors shall conduct themselves in a manner fitting to their age level and maturity and with mutual respect and consideration for the rights of others while attending school events.  Visitors failing to conduct themselves accordingly may be asked to leave the premises.  Children who wish to visit school must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.

It shall be the responsibility of employees to report inappropriate conduct. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent and principals to take the action necessary to cease the inappropriate conduct.  If the superintendent or principals are not available, the school district employee shall act to cease the inappropriate conduct.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 01-209-06, 02-05-09, 12-14-15
Revised:  5-17-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:25

903.4 - Public Conduct on School Premises

903.4 - Public Conduct on School Premises

School district sponsored or approved activities are an important part of the school district program and offer students the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities not offered during the regular school day.  School district sponsored or approved activities are provided for the enjoyment and opportunity for involvement they afford the students.

The board expects that students, employees, and visitors will treat each other with respect, engage in responsible behavior, exercise self-discipline, and model fairness, equity, and respect.  Individuals violating this policy will be subject to discipline.  Students will be disciplined consistent with the student conduct policies and the law. Employees will be disciplined consistent with employee discipline policies and laws.  Others will be subject to consequences according to this policy.

Individuals are permitted to attend school district sponsored or approved activities or visit school district premises only as guests of the school district, and accordingly, as a condition of such permission, they must comply with the school district's rules and policies. Individuals will not be allowed to interfere with or disrupt the education program or activity, the enjoyment of the students participating and/or other individuals or with the performance of students, employees, and officials supervising the school district or school district sponsored or approved activity.  Individuals, like the student participants, are expected to display mature, responsible behavior and sportsmanship.  The failure of individuals to do so is not only disruptive but embarrassing to the students, the school district, and the entire community.

To protect the rights of students to participate in the education program or activities without fear of interference or disruption and to permit the school district officials, employees, and activity sponsors and officials of the school district  sponsored or school district approved activities to perform their duties without interference or disruption, the following provisions are in effect:

  • Abusive, verbal or physical conduct of individuals directed at students, school district officials, employees, officials, and activity sponsors of school district sponsored or school district approved activities or at other individuals will not be tolerated.
  • Verbal or physical conduct of individuals that interferes with the performance of students, school district officials, employees, officials, and activity sponsors of school district sponsored or school district approved activities will not be tolerated.
  • The use of vulgar, obscene or demeaning expression directed at students, school district officials, employees, officials, and activity sponsors participating in a school district sponsored or school district approved activity or at other individuals will not be tolerated.
  • If an individual becomes physically or verbally abusive, uses vulgar, obscene or demeaning expression, or in any way interrupts a school district sponsored or school district approved activity, the individual may be removed by the individual in charge and may be excluded from school district premises by the superintendent.

If an individual has been excluded from school district premises by the superintendent, the individual may receive a written notice of exclusion.  The notice will advise the individual of the school district’s right to exclude the individual from school district premises and school district sponsored or school district approved activities and the duration of the exclusion.  If the individual does not comply with the notice of exclusion, the individual will be asked to leave and will be advised that the individual’s failure to leave may result in prosecution.  The school district may obtain a court order for permanent exclusion from school district premises and future school district sponsored or school district approved activities.

 

 

Approved: 12-10-07              
Reviewed:  02-05-09, 12-14-15                     
Revised:  5-17-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:23

903.5 - Distribution or Display of Materials

903.5 - Distribution or Display of Materials

The board recognizes that students, employees, parents or citizens may want to distribute or display materials within the school district that are non-curricular.  Non-curricular materials to be distributed or displayed must be approved by the building principal and meet certain standards prior to their distribution.

 

 

Approved:  11-14-94             
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 12-09-02, 01-09-06, 02-05-09, 06-11-12, 12-14-15
Revised:  5-17-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:19

903.5R1 - Display or Distribution of Materials Regulation

903.5R1 - Display or Distribution of Materials Regulation

I.          Guidelines

Individuals, including students may have the right to distribute or display on school district premises, at reasonable times and places, unofficial written material, petitions, buttons, badges or other insignia, except expression which:

(a)   is obscene to minors;                                                                                                     
(b)   is libelous;                                                                                                                     
(c)   contains indecent, vulgar, profane or lewd language;                                                               
(d)   advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law;                               
(e)   constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses other people (e.g., threats of violence, defamation of character or of a person's race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, disability, age or ethnic origin);

(f)   presents a clear and present likelihood that, either because of its content or the manner of distribution or display, it will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school district or school district activities, will cause the commission of unlawful acts or the violation of lawful school district regulations.

Distribution or display on school district premises of material in categories (a) through (d) to any student is prohibited.  Distribution or display on school district premises of material in categories (e) and (f) to a substantial number of students is prohibited.

II. Procedures.

Anyone wishing to distribute or display unofficial written material must first submit for approval a copy of the material to the building principal at least twenty-four hours in advance of desired distribution or display time, together with the following information:                                        

1. Name and phone number of the person submitting the request and, if a student, the homeroom number.

2. Date(s) and time(s) of day of intended display or distribution;

3. Location where material will be displayed or distributed;

4. The grade(s) of students to whom the display or distribution is intended

Within twenty-four hours of submission, the principal will render a decision whether the material violates the guidelines in subsection I or the time, place, and manner restrictions in subsection III of this policy.  In the event that permission to distribute or display the material is denied, the person submitting the request should be informed in writing of the reasons for the denial.      Permission to distribute or display material does not imply approval of its contents by the school district, the administration, the board or the individual reviewing the material submitted.

If the person submitting the request does not receive a response within twenty-four hours of submission, the person shall contact the building principal's office to verify that the lack of response was not due to an inability to locate the person.  If the person has made this verification and there is no response to the request, the material may be distributed or displayed in accordance with the time, place, and manner provisions in subsection III.

If the person is dissatisfied with the decision of the principal, the person may submit a written request for appeal to the superintendent. If the person does not receive a response within three school days of submitting the appeal, the person shall contact the    superintendent to verify that the lack of response is not due to an inability to locate the person. If the person has made this verification and there is no response to the appeal, the material may be distributed or displayed in accordance with the time, place, and manner provisions in subsection III.

At every level of the process the person submitting the request shall have the right to appear and present the reasons, supported by relevant witnesses and material, as to why distribution or display of the written material is appropriate.

III. Time, Place and Manner of Distribution.

The distribution or display of written material is prohibited when it negatively affects the safety of students on school district premises or otherwise disrupts school district activities.  The distribution or display of unofficial material shall be limited to a reasonable time, place, and manner as follows:

1. The material shall be distributed or displayed at a table set up for the purpose in a location designated by the principal. The location shall not block the safe flow of traffic, block the corridors or entrance ways or negatively affect the safety of students and shall give reasonable access to students.

2. The material shall be distributed or displayed either before and/or after the regular instructional day.

3. No written material may be distributed or displayed during and at the place of a normal school district activity if it is reasonably likely to cause a material and substantial disruption of the activity.

IV. Definitions.

The following definitions apply to the following terms used in this policy:

1. Obscene to minors is defined as:

(a) The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the written material, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest of minors of the age to whom distribution or display is requested;

(b) The material depicts or describes, in a manner that is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community concerning how such conduct should be presented to minors of the age to whom distribution or display is requested, sexual conduct such as intimate sexual acts (normal or perverted), masturbation, excretory functions, and lewd exhibition of the genitals; and

(c) The material, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value for minors.

2. Minor means any person under the age of eighteen.

3. Material and substantial disruption of a normal school district activity is defined as follows:

(a) Where the normal school district activity is an educational program of the school district for which student attendance is compulsory, material and substantial disruption is defined as any disruption which interferes with or impedes the implementation of that program.

(b) Where the normal school district activity is voluntary in nature (including, without limitation, school district athletic events, school district plays and concerts, and lunch periods), material and substantial disruption is defined as student rioting, unlawful seizures of property, widespread shouting or boisterous demonstration, sit-ins, stand-ins, walk-outs or other related forms of activity.

In order for expression to be considered disruptive, there must exist specific facts upon which the likelihood of disruption can be forecasted including past experience in the school district, current events influencing student activities and behavior, and instances of actual or threatened disruption relating to the written material in question.

4. School district activities means any activity of students sponsored by the school district and includes, by way of example but not limited to, classroom work, library activities, physical education classes, official assemblies, and other similar gatherings, school district athletic contests, band concerts, school district plays and in-school district lunch periods.

5. Unofficial written material includes all written material except school district newspapers, literary magazines, yearbooks, and other publications funded and/or sponsored or authorized by the school district.

Examples include leaflets, brochures, flyers, petitions, placards, and underground newspapers, whether written.by students or others.

6. Libelous is a false and unprivileged statement about a specific individual that tends to harm the individual's reputation or to lower him/her in the esteem of the community.

7. Distribution means circulation or dissemination of written material by means of handing out free copies, selling or offering copies for sale, and accepting donations for copies.  It includes displaying written material in areas of the school district which are generally frequented by students.

V.        Disciplinary Action.

Distribution or display by any student of unofficial written material prohibited in subsection I or in violation of subsection III may be halted, and students may be subject to discipline including suspension and expulsion.  Any other party violating this policy may be requested to leave school district property immediately and, if necessary, local law enforcement officials will be called.

VI.       Notice of Policy to Students.

A copy of this policy will be published in student handbooks and posted conspicuously in school district buildings.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:21

904 - Community Activities Involving Students

904 - Community Activities Involving Students dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:16

904.1 - Transporting Students in Private Vehicles

904.1 - Transporting Students in Private Vehicles

Generally, transporting students for school purposes is done in a vehicle owned by the school district and driven by a school vehicle driver.  Students may be transported in private vehicles for school purposes.  It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine when this is appropriate.

Individuals transporting students for school district purposes in private vehicles must have the permission of the superintendent and meet all applicable requirements set by the school district.  Private vehicles will be used only when:

  • The vehicle used to transport the student(s) is in good condition and meets all applicable safety requirements;
  • The driver transporting the student(s) possesses a valid drivers’ license,, must not e subject to any driver’s license suspension, revocation, cancellation, denial or bar and have not committed an offense or act which, either alone or with previous offenses or acts, could result in license suspension, revocation, cancellation, denial or bar, and must be the owner of the vehicle or have the owner’s permission to operate the vehicle;
  • Proof of insurance has been supplied to the superintendent and the insurance satisfies the minimum coverage requirements for driving personal vehicles in the State of Iowa ; and
  • The parents of the student(s) to be transported have given permission to the superintendent. 

The school district assumes no responsibility for those students who have not received the approval of the superintendent and who ride in private vehicles for school purposes. If transportation is not provided by the school district, or if transportation provided by the school district is declined by the student or parent/guardian, then the responsibility and corresponding liability for transportation for school district purposes shall rest solely with the student and parent/guardian.

This policy statement applies to transportation of students for school district purposes in addition to transporting students to and from their designated attendance center.

 

 

Approved:  07-01-92 
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 01-09-06, 02-05-09
Revised: 2-14-15, 8-14-17, 5-17-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:18

904.2 - Advertising and Promotion

904.2 - Advertising and Promotion

The use of students’ names and/or likenesses, employees’ names and/or likenesses, the school district name and/or likeness, and/or the school district’s buildings and sites for advertising and promoting products and/or services of entities and organizations operating for a profit shall be prohibited unless prior approval has been obtained from the board.  Nonprofit entities and organizations may be allowed to use students’ manes and/or likenesses, employees’ names and/or likenesses, the school district name and/or likeness, or the school district’s buildings and sites if the purpose is educationally related, it is permitted under the law, and prior approval has been obtained from the board in accordance with board policies and procedures and the law.

 

 

Approved:  7-1-92                 
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-02, 01-09-06, 02-05-09, 12-14-15
Revised:  5-17-22                                                      

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:17

905 - Buildings, Sites, and Equipment

905 - Buildings, Sites, and Equipment dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:03

905.1 - Community Use of School District Facilities and Equipment

905.1 - Community Use of School District Facilities and Equipment

School district facilities and equipment will be made available to local nonprofit entities which promote cultural, educational, civic, community or recreational activities.  Such use will be permitted only when the use does not interfere with or disrupt the education program or school district related activity, the use is consistent with state law, and will end no later than midnight. It is within the discretion of the board to allow for profit entities to sue school district facilities and equipment.  The board reserves the right to deny use of the facilities and the equipment to an entity.  It is within the discretion of the superintendent to allow use of school district facilities and equipment on Sundays.

Entities who wish to use the school district facilities or equipment must apply at the superintendent's office.  It shall be the responsibility of the secondary principal or superintendent to determine whether the school district facility or equipment requested is available and whether the application for use meets board policy and administrative regulations.   It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent and board secretary to provide application forms, obtain proof of insurance, and draw up the contract for use of school district facilities and equipment.

Use of school district facilities and equipment by entities shall be supervised by an employee of the school district unless special arrangements are made with the superintendent.  The school district employee shall not accept a fee from the entity using school district facilities and equipment.  If appropriate, the school district employee may be paid by the school district.  The school district may recoup the cost of paying the employee by charging a fee to the entity.

Entities that use school district facilities or equipment must leave the facilities or equipment in the same condition the facilities or equipment was in prior to its use.  Inappropriate use of school district facilities and equipment may result in additional fees charged to, or the inability of, the entity to use school district facilities or equipment in the future.

The board may allow entities such as the Boy and Girl Scouts and 4-H to use the school district facilities and equipment without charge.  While such entities may use school district facilities and equipment without charge, they may be required to pay a custodial fee.

 

 

Approved:                  
Reviewed:  12-13-99, 12-09-06, 02-05-09, 12-14-15
Revised:  07-01-92, 5-17-22

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:07

905.1E1 - Use of School District Facilities and Equipment Application Form

905.1E1 - Use of School District Facilities and Equipment Application Form

This undersigned applicant makes application for the use of the school district facility or equipment as designated below. The entity will provide security at its own expense, if necessary, to maintain order and to properly protect the facility or equipment. Security is required if admission is charged.

Please refer to Policy 905.1 to determine the proper use of school district facilities and equipment. The entity is responsible for complying with the law, board policy, and the administrative regulations.

This applicant must provide an Indemnity and Liability Insurance Agreement, Code No. 905.1E2, prior to the use of the facilities.

BUILDING:    _________________________          PURPOSE: ________________________

DATE:  ______________________________          HOURS:  __________________________

Auditorium                                                                 Gymnasium

Seating requirements on stage ____________           Seating            ________ Scoreboard __________  
Tables required on stage _________________  Public address system ________________  
Stage curtain and attendant _______________          Matron _____________________________ 
Spotlights _____________________________                                                              
Microphones __________________________          Classroom                                                   
Podium ____________   Stand ____________                                                                                    
Table _______   Stand in audience _________         Lunchroom                                                    
Other equipment ________________________                                                

TOTAL FEE $__________________________

Name of organization making application: ___________________________________________

Name of person making application: ________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________ Phone: ________________________________

 ______________________________________            ____________________________________
(Signature of Applicant)                                                           (Date)

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:14

905.1E2 - Use of School District Facilities and Equipment Indemnity and Liability Insurance Agreement

905.1E2 - Use of School District Facilities and Equipment Indemnity and Liability Insurance Agreement

The undersigned, hereafter referred to as entity states that it shall hold the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District, hereafter referred to as school district, its board of directors, individual board members, employees, officers, agents, and representatives harmless from any and all damages and claims that may arise out of the entity’s  use of any facilities or equipment owned by the school district       In case any action is brought therefor against the school district, its board of directors, individual board members, employees, officers, agents or representatives , the entity shall assume full responsibility for the legal defense thereof, and upon its failure to do so on proper notice, the school district reserves the right to defend such action and to charge all costs, including attorney fees, to the entity.

The entity agrees to furnish and maintain during the usage of the facilities owned by the school district such bodily injury and property damage liability insurance as shall protect the entity and the school district from claims for damages for personal injury, including accidental death, and from claims for property damages, which may arise from the ’entity’s use of the school district's facilities or equipment, whether such operations be by the entity or by anyone directly or indirectly employed by the entity.  Such insurance shall include the Ruthven-Ayrshire Community School District as an additional named insured in the policy carried by the entity and described above.

The entity shall furnish the school district with a certificate of insurance acceptable to the school district's insurance carrier before the contract is issued.

 

Dated at ___________________________, Iowa, this _____ day of ______________, 20_______,

_________________________________________  ______________ Community School District  (Organization)

 

By ________________________________  By _______________________________
            President

Title _______________________________  By _______________________________
                                                                                                             Secretary                                                                

Address ____________________________

              _____________________________

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:11

905.1R1 - Community Use of School District Facilities and Equipment Regulation

905.1R1 - Community Use of School District Facilities and Equipment Regulation

1.      Alcoholic beverages will not be brought to or consumed in school district facilities and on school district grounds.

2.      The use of tobacco and nicotine products are prohibited in school district facilities and school district grounds, including in private vehicles parked on school district grounds.

3.      A school district employee must be present while the school district facility or equipment is being used by an entity.

4.      After a school district facility or equipment has been used by an entity, cleaning, including restoring the facility or equipment to the condition it was in prior to its use, will be done by school district employees assisted by representatives from the entity.  The fee charged to the entity for the use of the facility or equipment will include these costs.  However, if excessive costs are involved in cleaning or otherwise restoring the facility or equipment to the condition it was in prior to its use, the board reserves the right to charge the entity for these excessive costs. 

5.      Entities are required to stay within the area of the school district facility and use only the school district equipment authorized by the school district for use by the entity.  Other school district facilities or areas in the school district building or equipment are off limits to the entity.

6.      A cancellation after the facility or equipment is made ready for the entity will be charged at the full rate.  Cancellations made prior to that time will be charged a minimum cancellation fee or the costs incurred to the school district in anticipation of the entity's use, whichever is greater.

7.      School district sponsored activities will always have priority over use of school district facilities and equipment requested by entities.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:10

905.1R2 - Community Use of School District Facilities and Equipment Fees Schedule

905.1R2 - Community Use of School District Facilities and Equipment Fees Schedule

Rates for Use of Buildings and Sites

 

 

High school gym (two hours)

 

$100

High school lunch room

 

$100

 

 

 

Add to above:

 

 

For each additional hour or fraction thereof

 

$25

Custodial charges

 

Actual

 

 

 

Buildings, Rooms, and Site are to be returned to original condition when finished.

 

 

 

In addition to paying the above fees, each entity must make arrangements with the school district to have adequate custodial and supervisory services.  Buildings will not be available unless a contract is signed by the entity and the school district well in advance of scheduled usage.

 

 

Rates for Use of Equipment

 

 

Sound System

 

$50/event

Chairs and/or tables for meetings

 

$50/event

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:08

905.2 - Employee and Student Use of District Facilities and Equipment

905.2 - Employee and Student Use of District Facilities and Equipment

The board will permit school district employees to use school district facilities and equipment when such use is directly related to their employment.  The board will permit students to use school district facilities and equipment when the facility or equipment is to be used in connection with their studies or extra-curricular activities.  Proper controls will be established to ensure responsibility for, and return of, all such facilities and equipment in good condition.

The building principal and/or superintendent will approve the use of facilities and equipment and such use will be subject to the board’s policies and rules regarding the use of school district facilities and equipment.

 

 

Approved:  5-17-22
Reviewed:
Revised:

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:04

905.3 - Tobacco and Nicotine Free Environment

905.3 - Tobacco and Nicotine Free Environment

The use of tobacco and nicotine products; including, but not limited to, cigarettes, nicotine chew, snus, dissolvables, electronic cigarettes, any electronic devices that can be used to deliver nicotine to the person inhaling from the device, any other look-alike products in which the original would include tobacco and/or nicotine and/or other nicotine products that are not approved by the Federal Drug Administration for tobacco cessation; on school district property; including in school district buildings, on school district grounds, in school district vehicles, or at any school district activity; is prohibited.

This requirement extends to students, employees, volunteers, and visitors. This policy applies at all times, including school district sponsored and nonschool district sponsored events. Persons failing to abide by this policy are required to cease using the tobacco and/or nicotine product, property dispose of the tobacco and/or nicotine product and refrain from using tobacco and/or nicotine products in the future. Persons failing to abide by the requirements of this policy will be required to leave the school district premises immediately. It is the responsibility of the administration to enforce this policy. 

 

 

Approved:  9-14-1987                       
Reviewed:  8-8-1994, 2-5-2009, 6-11-2012, 10-9-2013, 12-14-15
Revised:  8-8-1994, 12-12-1994, 5-12-2008, 10-9-2013, 5-17-22

   

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:05

905.4- Weapons In The School District

905.4- Weapons In The School District

The board believes weapons, other dangerous objects and look-a-likes in school district facilities and at school district-approved events 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.

All weapons, dangerous objects and look-a-likes are prohibited to be carried, possessed, transported or otherwise stored on school district property and to school district-approved events.  Exceptions to this policy include weapons carried by the following individuals in performance of their official duties: 

  • law enforcement; 
  • military personnel;
  • corrections officers;
  • individuals approved in writing by the Superintendent; and
  • students and individuals approved in writing by the Superintendent who are actively engaging in a school district approved firearms safety course, hunter education course or shooting sports activity;

Individuals found to be in violation of this district policy will be required to immediately remove the weapon, dangerous object or look-a-likes from the school district property or event.  Students found to be in violation of this policy or any other board policies related to weapons will be subject to disciplinary proceedings.  Employees found in violation of this policy may be subject to discipline, up to and including termination.

The district shall not authorize staff members to carry firearms on school grounds in accordance with Iowa Code 724.6.

Approved:  8-21-24 Reviewed: Revised: 

awoods@gt.rati… Thu, 08/22/2024 - 15:32

906 - Unmanned Aircraft - Drones

906 - Unmanned Aircraft - Drones

The following policy applies to the extent not preempted by federal or state regulatory jurisdiction regarding unmanned aircraft. For purposes of this policy, the term unmanned aircraft means an aircraft that is operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.

The school district believes in maintaining the safety, security, and privacy of students, employees, and visitors. In keeping with this belief, the use or possession of unmanned aircraft is prohibited on school district property or in the space above the property that reasonably can be considered part of the school district property.

The superintendent may make an exception to this policy in specific cases where the circumstances warrant such exception. In such situations and prior to approval, unmanned aircraft operators shall:

  • Supply proof of insurance meeting liability limits established by the school district;
  • Present appropriate registration and authorization issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA);
  • Sign an agreement holding the school district harmless from any claims by individuals, citations by governmental authorities or damage to property; and
  • Meet additional requirements as determined appropriate by the school district.

If the unmanned aircraft are operated as part of the school district curriculum, prior to adoption into the curriculum, school district employees shall work with school district administration to ensure the appropriate insurance, registration, and authorizations are in place.

Unmanned aircraft shall be operated in accordance with Iowa High School Athletic Association and Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union policy.

Failure to abide by this policy may result in local, state, and federal penalties if applicable.

 

 

Approved: 9-13-16                   
Reviewed:                                               
Revised: 
5-17-22                                

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 07/06/2022 - 09:03