500 Students

500 Objective for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students

This series of the board policy manual is devoted to the board's goals and objectives for assisting the students of the school district in obtaining an education. Each student will have an opportunity to obtain an education in compliance with the policies in this series.

 

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 it and 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 opportunity.

 

The board supports the delivery of the education program and services to students free of discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, gender identity, marital status, socioeconomic status, disability, religion, or creed. This concept of equal educational opportunity serves as  a guide for the board and employees in making decisions relating to school district facilities, employment, and selection of educational materials, equipment, curriculum, and regulations affecting students.

 

In the delivery of the education program, students will treat the employees with respect and students will receive the same in return. Employees have the best interests of the students in mind and will assist them in school-related or personal matters if they are able to do so. Students should feel free to discuss problems, whether school-related or personal, with the guidance counselor or other employees.

 

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.

 

This section of the board policy refers to the term "parents" in many of the policies. The term parents for purposes of this policy manual will mean the legal parents, the legal guardian or custodian of a student and students who have reached the age of majority or are otherwise considered an adult by law.

 

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 Action Coordinator by writing to the Affirmative Action Coordinator, East Union Community School District, Afton Iowa 50830 or by telephoning 641-347-8421.

 

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 regional office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Citigroup Center, 500 W. Madison St., Suite 1475, Chicago, IL 60661-4544, (312) 730-1560, OCR.Chicago@ed.gov, or Iowa Dept. of Education, Grimes State Office Bldg., Des Moines, IA. (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.

 

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 2-18-03    Reviewed 4-21-08 11-19-13  1-28-19    Revised 2-16-09 3-25-14  1-28-19

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

The superintendent will decide each case involving the bona fide residence of a student upon its individual merits.
.
Legal Reference:

Lakota Cons. Ind. School v. Buffalo Center-Rake Comm. School, 334 N.W.2d
704 (Iowa 1983).
Mt. Hope School Dist. v. Hendrickson, 197 N.W. 47 (Iowa 1924).
Oshel v. Creston Comm. School Dist., DPI Admin. Doc. 570 (1981).
33 D.P.I. Dec. Rule 80 (1984).
Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4 (2001).
1956 Op. Att'y Gen. 185.
1946 Op. Att'y Gen. 197.
1938 Op. Att'y Gen. 69.
1930 Op. Att'y Gen. 147.

Cross Reference:

102 School District Instructional Organizations
501 Student Attendance

Approved  2-18-03      Reviewed  4-21-08   11-19-13   1-28-19   Revised 

501.10 Truancy-Unexcused Absences

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299 (2007).
281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).

Cross Reference:

206.3 Secretary
410.3 Truancy Officer
501 Student Attendance
503 Student Discipline
504 Student Activities
506 Student Records

Approved 2-18-03      Reviewed 4-21-08  11-19-13  1-28-19    Revised

501.10R1 Truancy-Unexcused Absences Regulation

Daily, punctual attendance is an integral part of the learning experience and is required of all students to receive the maximum benefit of the educational program. The habit of good attendance established early is one which helps a person be successful throughout his or her lifetime. More and more, employers, colleges and vocational schools expect good attendance and are checking student attendance records. They are aware that good and prompt attendance indicates dependability in a student.

 

The education that goes on in the classroom builds from day to day and as a result, absences always cause some disruption in the educational progress of the absent student. Students who are absent may not understand what the teacher is currently presenting, and may also become discouraged with the double burden of keeping current and making up missed work. In order to maintain interest and understanding in the instructional program, students should not expect to be absent any more than is absolutely necessary. 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 school.

 

Students who are absent without a reasonable excuse, as determined by the principal, will be assigned to supervised study hall, detention, early bird school, Saturday school, in-school suspension, or other appropriate disciplinary sanction. Reasonable excuses include illness, family emergencies, recognized religious observances and school sponsored or approved activities. Reasonable excuses may also include family trips or vacations if the student's work is finished prior to the trip or vacation.

 

A student who is unexcused for one or more classes for less than a whole school day, will be assigned to supervised study hall, detention, early bird school, Saturday school, in-school suspension or other appropriate disciplinary sanction for the next days during the class period(s) missed. If a student is unexcused for a whole day of classes, he or she will spend the next two days in supervised study hall, detention, early bird school, Saturday school, in-school suspension or other appropriate disciplinary sanction. Parents are expected to telephone the school office to report a student's absence prior to 8:00 a.m. on the day of the absence. Students with unexcused absences may also be referred to the at-risk coordinator.

 

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

501.11 Student Release During School Hours

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

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

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 294.4.

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

503 Student Discipline

504 Student Activities

506 Student Records

 

Approved 2-18-03            Reviewed 4-21-08     11-19-13  1-28-19     Revised

 

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 may require that a pregnant student provide the principal with a written note from her doctor relative to special conditions that might exist and specific suggestions as to how long the student may continue to attend classes. If the student is unable to attend school because of her pregnancy, the student may be excused and arrangements made to continue her studies during her absence. The student will resume classes upon the recommendation of her physician.
 
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 216; 279.8; 280.3 
 
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
604.2 Individualized Instruction
 
Approved 2-18-03          Reviewed 4-21-08    11-19-13     1-28-19    Revised

 

501.13 Students of Legal Age

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

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

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. § 1232g.  Iowa Code Ch. 22; §§ 599.1; 622.10.

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

506 Student Records

 

Approved 2-18-03                          Reviewed 4-21-08  11-19-13  1-28-19   Revised

 

501.14 Open Enrollment Transfers-Procedures as a Sending District

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

 

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

 

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

 

The receiving district will approve open enrollment requests according to the timelines established by law. The parents may withdraw the open enrollment request prior to the start of the school year. The receiving district’s superintendent will notify the parents and sending school district by mail within five days of the school district’s action to approve or deny the open enrollment request. The board will not approve a student's request to allow the receiving district to enter the school district for the purposes of transportation.

 

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 282.18.

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

506 Student Records

 

 

Approved 2-18-03             Reviewed 4-21-08  1-28-19        Revised 4-21-08  11-19-13  1-28-19

 

501.15 Open Enrollment Transfers-Procedures as a Receiving District

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

 

The superintendent will notify the sending school district and parents within five days of the school district’s action to approve or deny the open enrollment request. The superintendent will notify the parents within fifteen days of the board’s action to approve or deny the open enrollment request. The superintendent will also forward a copy of the board’s action with a copy of open enrollment request to the Iowa Department of Education.

 

Open enrollment requests into the school district will not be approved if insufficient classroom space exists. Open enrollment requests into the school district will also not be approved for students who have been suspended or expelled by the administration or the board of the school district the student is or as attending until the student has been reinstated into the school district from which the student was suspended or expelled. Once the student is reinstated, the student's open enrollment request will be considered in the same manner as other open enrollment requests provided the required timelines are met.

 

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

 

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

 

Parents of students whose open enrollment requests are approved by the board are responsible for providing transportation to and from the receiving school district without reimbursement. The board will not approve transportation into the sending district.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 282.18

 

Cross Reference:

  1. Student Transfers In

501.7 Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals

501.14 Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Sending District

506 Student Records

507 Student Health and Well-Being

606.6 Insufficient Classroom Space

 

Approved 2-18-03     Reviewed 4-21-08  11-19-13  1-28-19          Revised  11-19-13  1-28-19

501.16 Homeless Children and Youth

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

 

A homeless child or youth ages 3-21 is:

 

  • A child who lacks a fixed, regular and adequate night-time residence and includes the following:

 

  • A child who is sharing the housing of others (includes doubled-up families) due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; is living in a motel, hotel, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative accommodations; is living in an emergency or transitional shelter; is abandoned in a hospital, or is awaiting foster care placement.

 

  • A child who has a primary night-time residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for humans beings;

 

  • A child who is living in a car, park, abandoned building, substandard housing, bus or train station, or similar setting;

 

  • A migratory child/youth who qualifies as homeless because of the living circumstances described above; or

 

  • Youth who have runaway or youth being forced to leave home.

 

 

So that enrollment of homeless children and youth of school age may be facilitated, the following policy areas are modified as follows:

 

School Records: For students transferring out of the district, records may be provided directly to the student or the student's parents. In addition, students transferring into the school district may provide cumulative records directly to the district. The school district will not require that such records be forwarded from another school district before that student may enroll. The school will then request the official records from the previous school.

 

Immunization Requirements: Homeless students will not be denied enrollment for lack of immunization records if:

 

  1. they have a statement signed by a physician stating that immunization would be injurious to the student;
  2. they provide an affidavit stating such immunization would conflict with their religious beliefs;
  3. they are in the process of being immunized; or
  4. they are a transfer student from another school.

 

The school district will make a reasonable effort to locate immunization records from the information provided or will arrange for the student to receive immunizations.

 

Waiver of Fees and Charges: Fees and charges which may present a barrier to the enrollment or transfer of a homeless child or youth may be waived in the discretion of the superintendent.

 

Enrollment Requirements/Placement: Enrollment requirements which may constitute a barrier to the education of the homeless child or youth may be waived in the discretion of the superintendent. If the school district is unable to determine the grade level of the student because of missing or incomplete records, the school district will administer tests or utilize other reasonable means to determine the appropriate grade level for the child.

 

Residency: For purposes of a homeless child or youth, residence for the purpose of attending school is where the child actually resides or the child's school district of origin. A child's school district of origin is the school district where the child was last enrolled. The deciding factor is the best interests of the child. As much as possible, the child will not be required to change attendance centers within the school district every time the child changes residence unless that change results in the child no longer being classified as homeless.

 

Transportation: Policies or practices regarding transportation of students which might cause a barrier to the attendance of a homeless child or youth may be waived by the superintendent.

 

Special Services: All services which are available to resident students are made available to homeless children or youths enrolled in the school district. Services include special education, talented and gifted programs, vocational education, English as a second language programs, health services and food and nutrition programs.

 

The contents of this policy will supersede any and all conflicting provisions in board policies dealing with the seven policy areas discussed above.

 

Legal Reference: The McKinney-Vento Act and Title I Part A, as Amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), 42 U.S.C. §§ 11431 et seq..  281 I.A.C. 33.

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

503.3 Fines - Fees - Charges 506 Student Records

507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates

603.3 Special Education

711.1 Student School Transportation Eligibility

 

 

Approved 2-18-03         Reviewed 4-21-08, 11-19-13, 1-21-14  1-28-19      Revised  11-19-13, 1-21-14 1-28-19

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 is the current per-pupil cost of the school district as computed by the board secretary and as authorized by the Iowa Department of Education.

 

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

 

Students in grades eleven or twelve who are no longer residents of the school district, but were residents in the preceding school year, may continue to attend school until they graduate without the payment of tuition. These students 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 and who have evidence they will become legal residents of the school district prior to the third Friday in September may be allowed to attend without the payment of tuition.

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.1, .2, .6, .7, .24.

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

 

 

Approved  2-18-03                           Reviewed 4-21-08      1-21-14  1-28-19           Revised

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  school is in session in accordance with the school calendar. Students of compulsory attendance age will attend school a minimum of 180 days or 1080 hours. Students not attending the minimum days must be exempted by this policy as listed below or, for students in grades 7-12, referred to the county attorney. Exceptions to this policy include children who:

• have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or have obtained a high school equivalency diploma;
• are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
• are attending an approved or probationally approved private college preparatory school;
• are attending an accredited nonpublic school;
• are receiving independent private instruction; or,
• are receiving competent private instruction.
 
It is the responsibility of the parent of a child to provide evidence of the child's mental and physical inability to attend school or of the child's qualifications for one of the exceptions listed above.
 
The truancy officer or principal will investigate the cause for a student's truancy. If the truancy officer or principal is unable to secure the truant student's attendance, the truancy officer or principal should discuss the next step with the school board. If after school board action, the student is still truant, a truancy officer or principal will refer the matter over to the county attorney for students in grades 7-12. Truant students who have not yet completed sixth grade will be subject to the Attendance Cooperation Process outlined in the supporting administrative requlation.
 
The school will participate in mediation if requested by the county attorney. The superintendent will represent the school district in mediation. The school district will monitor the student's compliance with the mediation agreement and will report violations of the mediation agreement to the county attorney.
 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code Chs. 259A; 299; 299A; §§ 279.10-.11. 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

601.1 School Calendar

604.1 Competent Private Instruction

 

Approved 2-18-03 4-27-15  Reviewed 4-21-08  1-21-14 03-30-15 1-28-19  3/21/2024 Revised 4-27-15

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 board will require evidence of age and residency in the form of a birth certificate or other evidence before the student may enroll in the school district's education program. It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine what is satisfactory evidence for proof of age.
 
Prior to enrollment, the child must provide the administration with their health and immunization certificate. Failure to provide this information within the time period set by the superintendent is reason for suspension, expulsion or denying admission to the student.
 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 282.1, .3, .6.  1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 258.

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                         Reviewed 4-21-08    1-21-14  1-28-19    Revised  11-19-13

501.5 Attendance Center Assignment

The board will 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.

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 279.11; 282.7-.8.

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

 

Approved 2-18-03                                  Reviewed 4-21-08 1-21-14  1-28-19  11-22-21, 11-20-23         Revised

501.6 Student Transfer In

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

The school district will request the student's cumulative records from the previous school district. If the student cannot offer proof of grade level, the superintendent will make the grade level determination. The superintendent may require testing or other information to determine the grade level. Students expelled or suspended from their previous school district will only be enrolled after approval of the board.
 
The superintendent will determine the amount of credits to be transferred. If the student has not previously attended an accredited school, it is within the superintendent's discretion to accept or reject credits or grades.
 
The board may deny admission if the student is not willing to provide the board with the necessary information.
 
NOTE: School districts do not need parental permission to request student records from previous school districts. The school district sending the records must notify the parents that the student's records have been sent.
 

Legal Reference:

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

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

505.3 Student Honors and Awards

507 Student Health and Well-Being

604.1 Competent Private Instruction

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                             Reviewed 4-21-08     1-21-14   1-28-19          Revised

501.7 Student Transfer Out or Withdrawals

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. § 1232g.  Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 299.1-.1A.

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

506 Student Records

604.1 Competent Private Instruction

 

Approved 2-18-03                         Reviewed 4-21-08 1-21-14  1-28-19       Revised  1-28-19

501.8 Student Attendance Records

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

It is the responsibility of the principals to ensure that such reports are filed with the board secretary, the custodian of school records.
 
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299 (2007).281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).
 
Cross Reference:
501 Student Attendance
506 Student Records
 
Approved 2-18-03                 Reviewed 4-21-08    1-21-14     01-28-19   Revised 

501.9 Student Absences-Excused

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

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

The district believes that traditional, in-person school attendance leads to the greatest learning opportunities for students.  However, there may be rare and unusual circumstances created by public emergencies declared by state or local officials which temporarily prevent students from attending traditional, in-person school.  In these circumstances, the superintendent will have discretion to make reasonable accommodations for students, on a case-by-case basis, to attend school through remote learning opportunities within the available resources of the district and as permitted by law.  During approved remote learning, attendance will be taken, assessments may be administered, and grades will count towards students’ cumulative grade point average as if they were attending in person.  The provision of special education and accommodations for students who have individualized education programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans will be determined by each respective IEP or Section 504 team.

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

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

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

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

 

Legal Reference:        34 C.F.R. sec. 300

    28 C.F.R. Pt. 35

    Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299.

    281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

 

Cross Reference:    

    501    Student Attendance

    503    Student Discipline

    504    Student Activities

    506    Student Records

 

 

Approved  08-17-20                 Reviewed  1-28-19                  Revised 1-28-19

501.9E1 Request for Remote Learning Form

Date:  ________________

Student Name:  ____________________________           Attendance Center:  ______________________

Parent/Guardian:  ___________________________

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

 

(Parent/Guardian) ____________________________________

(Date) ________________

 

 

Request approved by: __________________________________  (School official)             _____________________

(Date) ________________

 

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

 

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 or other apparel promoting products illegal for use by minors and clothing displaying obscene material, profanity, or reference to prohibited conduct are disallowed. While  the primary responsibility for appearance lies with the students and their parents, appearance disruptive to the education program will not be tolerated. When, in the judgment of a principal, a student's appearance or mode of dress disrupts the educational process or constitutes a threat to health or safety, the student may be required to make modifications.

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 279.8.

 

Cross Reference:

500 Objectives for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                          Reviewed 4-21-08    1-21-14  1-28-19   Revised

502.10 Student to Student Harassment

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

 

The board prohibits harassment, bullying, hazing, or any other victimization, of students, based on any of the following actual or perceived traits or characteristics, including but not limited to, age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status. Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy after an investigation be disciplined, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.

 

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

 

Sexual harassment as set out above, may include, but is not limited to the following: verbal or written harassment or abuse; pressure for sexual activity; repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications; unwelcome touching; suggesting or demanding sexual involvement, accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, achievements, etc.

 

Harassment as set forth above may include, but is not limited to the following: verbal, physical or written harassment, bullying or abuse; repeated remarks of a demeaning nature; implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, achievements, etc.; demeaning jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student.

 

When looking at the totality of the circumstances, harassment and bullying mean any electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or conduct toward a student which is based on any actual or perceived trait or characteristic of the student and which creates an objectively hostile school environment that meets one or more of the following conditions:

 

  • Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or property;
  • Has a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s physical or mental health;
  • Has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s academic performance; or
  • 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.

 

 

“Electronic” means any communication involving the transmission of information by wire, radio, optical cable, electromagnetic, or other similar means. “Electronic” includes but is not limited to communication via electronic mail, internet-based communications, pager service, cell phones, electronic text messaging or similar technologies.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Legal References:

20 U.S.C. §§ 1221-1234i; 29 U.S.C. § 794; 42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d-2000d-7; 42 U.S.C. Ch. 21.  Iowa Code Ch. 216.  281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

 

Cross References:

403.6 Harassment

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

506 Student Records

 

 

Approved 2-18-03      Reviewed 4-21-08  1-28-19    Revised 6-18-07, 2-16-09, 1-21-14

502.11 Use of Motor Vehicles

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

 

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

 

Students who live within one mile of school and would not otherwise be eligible for a student driving permit, may be eligible for a student driving permit, for driving to and from school and school activities and practices, if the student has a physical impairment that prevents him/her from walking to the school.

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 279.8.

 

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

 

 

Approved 2-18-03  10-27-14       Reviewed 4-21-08  1-21-14  10-27-14  1-28-19   Revised 10-27-14

502.2 Care of School Property/Vandalism

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.4, .5; 613.16.

 

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

802.1 Maintenance Schedule

 

Approved 2-18-03                                   Reviewed 4-21-08      1-21-14  1-28-19    Revised

502.3 Freedom of Expression

Student expression, other than student expression in student-produced official school publications, made on the school district premises or under the jurisdiction of the school district or as part of a school sponsored activity may be attributed to the school district; therefore, student expression must be responsible. Student expression must be appropriate to assure that the students learn and meet the goals of the school activity and that the potential audience is not exposed to material that may be harmful or inappropriate for their level of maturity.

 

Students will be allowed to express their viewpoints and opinions as long as the expression is responsible.

 

The expression will not, in the judgment of the administration, encourage the breaking of laws, defame others, be obscene or indecent, or cause a material and substantial disruption to the educational program. The administration, when making this judgment, will consider whether the activity in which the expression was made is school-sponsored and whether review or prohibition of the students' speech furthers an educational purpose. Further, the expression must be done in a reasonable time, place, and manner that is not disruptive to the orderly and efficient operation of the school district. Students who violate this policy    may be subject to disciplinary measures. Employees are responsible for insuring students' expression is in keeping with this policy. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

Legal Reference:

 

U.S. Const. amend. I. Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.22.

 

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities 504 Student Activities

603.9 Academic Freedom

903.5 Distribution of Materials

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                           Reviewed 4-21-08     1-21-14  1-28-19             Revised

502.4 Student Complaints and Grievances

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

 

If the complaint cannot be resolved by a licensed employee, the student may discuss the matter with the principal within 7 days of the employee's decision. If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within 7 days after speaking with the principal.

 

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

 

 

 

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 279.8.

 

Cross Reference:

210.8 Board Meeting Agenda

215 Public Participation in Board Meetings

307 Communication Channels

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

504.3 Student Publications

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                           Reviewed 4-21-08     1-21-14  1-28-19             Revised

502.5 Student Lockers

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.14; Ch. 808A.

 

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                               Reviewed 4-21-08 1-21-14  1-28-19             Revised

502.6 Weapons

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

18 U.S.C. §§ 921-931; Iowa Code Ch. 724; §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 281 Iowa Admin. Code r. 12.3(6).

 

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

507 Student Health and Well-Being

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                             Reviewed 4-21-08      1-21-14  1-28-19          Revised

 

502.7 Student Substance Use

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

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

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

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

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

The board believes the substance use prevention program will include:

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

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

NOTE:  This policy is mandatory and complies with the federal Drug-Free Schools Act but is expanded to also include tobacco products.  This policy reflects Iowa law regarding tobacco products and minors.

 

Legal Reference:

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

 

I.C. Iowa Code

Description

Iowa Code  § 123.46

Consumption/Intoxication in Public

Iowa Code  § 124

Controlled Substances

Iowa Code  § 279.8

Directors - General Rules - Bonds of Employees

Iowa Code  § 279.9

Directors - Powers and Duties - Controlled Substances

Iowa Code  § 453A

Tobacco, Nicotine, Vapor Products - Taxes, Regulations

I.A.C. Iowa Administrative Code

Description

281 I.A.C. 12.3

Administration

281 I.A.C. 5

Public Records - Fair Access

C.F.R. - Code of Federal Regulations

Description

34 C.F.R. Pt. 86

Education - Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention

 

Approved 2-18-03; 03/21/2024            Reviewed 4-21-08     1-21-14  1-28-19        Revised  03/21/2024

502.8 Search and Seizure

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

 

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

U.S. Const. amend. IV. Iowa Code ch. 808A.  281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

 

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                              Reviewed 4-21-08  1-21-14  1-28-19             Revised

502.8E1 Search and Seizure checklist

 

I. What factors caused you to have a reasonable and articulable suspicion that the search of this student or the student's effects or automobile would turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law, school policy, rules or regulations affecting school order?
 
A. Eyewitness account.
1. By whom: 
2. Date/Time:
3. Place:
4. What was seen:
 
B. Information from a reliable source.
1. From whom:
2. Time received:
3. How information was received:
4. Who received the information: 
5. Describe information: 
 
C. Suspicious behavior? Explain.
 
D. Student's past history? 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 was being conducted:
 
G. Who conducted the search:
Position:                                           Sex: 
 
H. Witness(s):
 
III. Explanation of Search.
A. Describe the time and location of the search: 
 
B. Describe exactly what was searched:
 
C. What did the search yield: 
 
D. What was seized: 
 
E. Were any materials turned over to law enforcement officials?
 
F. Were parents notified of the search including the reason for it and the scope:

502.8R1 Search and Seizure Regulation

 

I. Searches, in general.
A. Reasonable and Articulable Suspicion: A search of a student will be justified when there are reasonable grounds for the suspicion that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law or school district policy, rules, or regulations affecting school order.
 
Reasonable suspicion may be formed by considering factors such as the following:
 
(1) eyewitness observations by employees;
(2) information received from reliable sources;
(3) suspicious behavior by the student; or,
(4) the student's past history and school record although this factor alone is not sufficient to provide the basis for reasonable suspicion.
 
B. Reasonable Scope: A search will be permissible in its scope or intrusiveness when the measures adopted are reasonably related to the objectives of the search. Reasonableness of scope or intrusiveness may be determined based on factors such as the following:
 
(1) the age of the student;
(2) the sex of the student;
(3) the nature of the infraction; and
(4) the emergency requiring the search without delay.
 
II. Types of Searches
 
A. Personal Searches
 
1. A student's person and/or personal effects (e.g., purse, backpack, etc.) may be searched when a school official has reasonable suspicion to believe the student is in possession of illegal or contraband items or has violated school district policies, rules, regulations or the law affecting school order.
2. Personally intrusive searches will require more compelling circumstances to be considered reasonable.
 
(a) Pat-Down Search: If a pat-down search or a search of a student's garments (such as jackets, socks, pockets, etc.) is conducted, it will be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex as the student and with another adult witness of the same sex present, when feasible.
 
(b) A more intrusive search, short of a strip search, of the student's person, handbags, book bags, etc., is permissible in emergency situations when the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors are threatened. Such a search may only be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex as the student, with an adult of the same sex present unless the health or safety of students will be endangered by the delay which may be caused by following these procedures.
 
B. Locker and Desk Inspections
 
Although school lockers and desks are temporarily assigned to individual students, they remain the property of the school district at all times. The school district has a reasonable and valid interest in 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 officials in the presence of the student or another individual. Any contraband discovered during such searches will be confiscated by school officials and may be turned over to law enforcement officials.  The contents of a student's locker or desk (coat, backpack, purse, etc.) may be searched when a school official has reasonable and articulable suspicion that the contents contains illegal or contraband items or evidence of a violation of law or school policy or rule. Such searches should be conducted in the presence of another adult witness when feasible.
 
C. Automobile Searches
 
Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right. The school retains authority to conduct routine patrols of the student parking lots. The interior of a student's automobile on the school premises may be searched if the school official has reasonable and articulable suspicion to believe that illegal, unauthorized or contraband items are contained inside.

 

502.9 Interviews of Students by Outside Agencies

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

 

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

 

If a child abuse investigator wishes to interview a student, the principal will defer to the investigator's judgment as to whether the student should be interviewed independently from the student's parents, whether the school is the most appropriate setting for the interview, and who will be present during the interview. Students will not be taken from school without the consent of the principal and without proper warrant.

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code Ch.232; § 280.17. 281 I.A.C. 102.  441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.  1980 Op.

Att'y Gen. 275.

 

Cross Reference:

402.2 Child Abuse Reporting

502.10 Search and Seizure

503 Student Discipline

902.2 News Conferences and Interviews

 

Approved 2-18-03                                Reviewed 4-21-08       1-21-14  1-28-19                  Revised

503.1 Student Conduct

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Removal from the classroom means a student is sent to the building principal's office.  It is within the discretion of the person in charge of the classroom to remove the student.  This policy is not intended to address the use of therapeutic classrooms or seclusion rooms for students.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy and outlines the school district's basic student conduct.  Details of how this policy will be implemented should be included in the student handbook.  The paragraph regarding assault of school district employees is Iowa law.   For more detailed discussion of this issue, see IASB's Policy Primer, October 10, 2002.

 

Legal Reference:     Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).

                              Brands v. Sheldon Community School District, 671 F. Supp. 627 (N.D. Iowa 1987).

                              Sims v. Colfax Comm. School Dist., 307 F. Supp. 485 (Iowa 1970).

                              Bunger v. Iowa High School Athletic Assn., 197 N.W.2d 555 (Iowa 1972).

                              Board of Directors of Ind. School Dist. of Waterloo v. Green, 259 Iowa 1260, 147  

                                N.W.2d 854 (1967).

                              Iowa Code §§ 279.8;282.3, 282.4, 282.5; 708.1.

                              281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

 

Cross Reference:    

501      Student Attendance                            

502      Student Rights and Responsibilities                             

503.6    Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students                           

504      Student Activities                             

603.3    Special Education                             

903.5    Distribution of Materials

 

Approved 2-16-04; 2-15-21    Reviewed 4-21-08  1-21-14  1-28-19      Revised  1-28-19; 01-18-21

 

503.1R1 Student Suspension

Administrative Action

 

  1. 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.
  2. In-School Suspension
    1. In-school suspension is the temporary isolation of a student from one or more classes while under administrative supervision. In-school suspensions may be imposed by the principal for infractions of school rules, which are serious but which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school.
    2. The principal will conduct an investigation of the allegations against the student prior to imposition of an in-school suspension. The investigation will include, but not be limited to, written or oral notice to the student of the allegations against the student and an opportunity to respond. In-school suspension will not be imposed for more than ten school days. Written notice and reasons for the in-school suspension will be sent to the student's parents.
  3. Out-of-School Suspension
    1. Out-of-school suspension is the removal of a student from the school environment for periods of short duration. Out-of-school suspension is to be used when other available school resources are unable to constructively remedy student misconduct.
    2. A student may be suspended out of school for up to ten school days by a principal for a commission of gross or repeated infractions of school rules, regulations, policy or the law, or when the presence of the student will cause interference with the maintenance of the educational environment or the operation of the school. The principal may suspend students after conducting an investigation of the charges against the student, giving the student:
      1. Oral or written notice of the allegations against the student and,
      2. The opportunity to respond to those charges.
      3. At the principal's discretion, the student may be allowed to confront witnesses against the student or present witnesses on behalf of the student.
    3. Notice of the out-of-school suspension will be mailed no later than the end of the school day following the suspension to the student's parents and the superintendent. A reasonable effort is made to personally notify the student's parents and such effort is documented by the person making or attempting to make the contact. Written notice to the parents will include the circumstances which led to the suspension and a copy of the board policy and rules pertaining to the suspension.
  4. 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.

503.2 Expulsion

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

  1. Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion;
  2. The names of the witnesses and an oral or written report on the facts to which each witness testifies unless the witnesses are students whose names may be released at the discretion of the superintendent;
  3. An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide either oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student's behalf;
  4. The right to be represented by counsel; and,
  5. The results and finding of the board in writing open to the student's inspection.

 

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

 

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

 

 

Legal Reference:

34 C.F.R. §§ 300.530-537; Iowa Code §§ 21.5; 282.3, .4, .5. 281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

 

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

 

 

Approved 4-19-04  Reviewed 4-21-08   1-21-14  1-28-19  Revised  1-28-19

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 property.

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 256.7(20); 279.8; 280.10, .11; 282.6; 285.1; 301.1. 281 I.A.C. 18.

1994 Op. Att'y Gen. 23. 1990 Op. Att'y Gen. 79. 1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 227. 1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 532.

 

Cross Reference:

501.16 Homeless Children & Youth 

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

 

 

Approved 2-16-04                               Reviewed 4-21-08      1-21-14  1-28-19     11-22-21, 11-20-23      Revised

503.3E1 Standard Fee Waiver Application

Form attached

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.

 

  1. 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.
    3. Temporary Waivers - a student may be eligible for a temporary waiver of fees charged by the district in the event the student's parents are facing financial difficulty. Temporary waivers may be applied for at any time throughout the school year and will not extend beyond the end of the school year.  Parents or students who believe they may qualify for temporary financial hardship should contact the secretary for a waiver form. This waiver does not carry over from year to year and must be completed annually.
  2. Application - Parents or students eligible for a fee waiver will make an application on the form provided by the school district. Applications may be made at any time but must be renewed annually.
  3. 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. 
  4. Appeals - Denials of a waiver may be appealed to the superintendent in writing within ten days of the denial.  The decision of the superintendent shall be final. 
  5. Fines or charges assessed for damage or loss to school property are not fees and will not be waived.
  6. Notice - the school district will annually notify parents and students of the waiver. The following information will be included in registration materials.

503.4 Good Conduct Rule

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

 

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

 

Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures, up to and including exclusion from participation in school activities. The principal will keep records of violations of the good conduct rule.

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 279.8, 280.13, .13A. 281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); ch. 36.

 

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

504 Student Activities

 

 

Approved 2-16-04                            Reviewed 4-21-08    1-21-14  1-28-19             Revised  1-28-19

503.5 Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint and Prone Restraint

The use of corporal punishment, mechanical restraint and/or prone restraint is prohibited in all schools.  Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional physical punishment of a student and is prohibited.  It includes the use of unreasonable or unnecessary physical force or physical contact made with the intent to harm or cause pain.  No employee is prohibited from any of the following which are not considered corporal punishment::

        ·     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(s) within a studentpupil's control.

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

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

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

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

                     --     To protect the safety of others.

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

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

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 employee using physical force.

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

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

 

Legal Reference:         Ingraham v.Wright, 430 U.S. 651 (1977).

                                    Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).

                                    Tinkham v. Kole, 252 Iowa 1303, 110 N.W.2d 258 (1961).

                                    Lai v. Erickson, PTPC Admin. Doc. 83-12 (1983).

                                    Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21.

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 103.                              

 

Cross Reference:        402.3    Abuse of Students by School District Employees

                                    502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

                                    503      Student Discipline

                                    503.6    Physical Restraint and Seclusion

 

 

Approved 4-19-04; 2-15-21                Reviewed 4-21-08      1-21-14  1-28-19, 11-20-23      Revised  01-18-21

503.6 Physical, Restraint and Seclusion of Students

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

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

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

Physical restraint or seclusion is reasonable or necessary only:

·       To prevent or terminate an imminent threat of bodily injury to the student or others; or

·       To prevent serious damage to property of significant monetary value or significant 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 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. 

 

NOTE:  This policy is not mandatory.  However, there are specific requirements for school districts to fulfill before and after using physical restraint and seclusion with students.  Administrators should thoroughly read and understand the requirements listed in Chapter 103 of the Iowa Administrative Code.

 

Legal Reference:        Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21.

                                    281 I.A.C. 103.

                                 

Cross Reference:       402.3    Abuse of Students by School District Employees

                                    502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

                                    503      Student Discipline

                                    503.5    Corporal Punishment

 

Approved  2-15-21                                   Reviewed   1-18-21                                            Revised                   

 

503.6E1 - Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion Documentation Form

503.6E2 - Debriefing Letter to Guardian of Student Involved in an Occurrence Where Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion Was Used

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

 

Dear [Guardian],

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

___________________________________                                ___________________________

[Administrator name], title                                                         Date

 

 

 

Enclosure:  Report related to student occurrence

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.]

503.6R1 - Use of Physical Restraint and Seclusion with Students

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

·       Physical restraint and seclusion will be used only by employees who have been trained in accordance with applicable law unless a trained employee is not immediately available due to the unforeseeable nature of the occurrence.

·       As soon as practical after the situation is under control, but within one hour after either the occurrence or the end of the school day, whichever occurs first, the school will attempt to contact the student’s parent or guardian using the school’s emergency contact system.

·       The seclusion or physical restraint is used only for as long as necessary based on research and evidence to allow the student to regain control of their behavior to the point that the threat or behavior necessitating the use of the seclusion or physical restraint has ended, or when a medical condition occurs that puts the student at risk of harm.  Unless otherwise provided for in the student’s written approved IEP, BIP, IHP or safety plan, if the seclusion or physical restraint continues for more than 15 minutes:

·       The student will be provided with any necessary breaks to attend to personal and bodily needs, unless doing so would endanger the child or others.

·       An employee will obtain approval from an administrator or administrator’s designee to continue seclusion or physical restraint beyond 15 minutes.  After the initial approval, an employee must obtain additional approval every 30 minutes thereafter for the continuation of the seclusion or physical restraint.

·       The student’s parent or guardian and the school may agree to more frequent notifications than is required by law.

·       Schools and district employees must document and explain in writing the reasons why it was not possible for the employees to obtain approval, notify parents, or take action within prescribed time limits.

·       Schools and district employees who begin and then end use of nonapproved restraints will document and explain in writing the reasons why they had no other option but to use this type of behavioral intervention.

·       The area of seclusion will be a designated seclusion room that complies with the seclusion room requirements in accordance with law, unless the nature of the occurrence makes the use of the designated seclusion room impossible, clearly impractical, or clearly contrary to the safety of the student, others, or both; in that event, the school must document and explain in writing the reasons why a designated seclusion room was not used.

·       An employee must continually visually monitor the student for the duration of the seclusion or physical restraint.

·       If an employee restrains a student who uses sign language or an augmentive mode of communication as the student’s primary mode of communication, the student shall be permitted to have the student’s hands free of physical restraint, unless doing so is not feasible in view of the threat posed.

·       Seclusion or physical restraint shall not be used:  as punishment or discipline; to force compliance or to retaliate; as a substitute for appropriate educational or behavioral support; to prevent property damage except as provided in law; as a routine school safety measure; or as a convenience to staff.

·       The Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee will investigate any complaint or allegation that one or more employees violated any provisions of 281 Iowa Administrative Code Ch. 103.  If the District determines a violation has occurred, corrective action will be taken up to and including termination of the employees involved.  If the allegation or complaint involves a specific student the District will notify the parents or guardian of the involved student about the results of the investigation.  If any allegation or complaint is also defined as abuse in 281 Iowa Administrative Code 102.2, the procedures listed in chapter 102 will apply.

·     The District must comply with and implement Chapter 103 whether or not a parent consents to the use of physical restraint or seclusion.

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.

 

Legal Reference:    Iowa Code § 

    

 

Cross Reference:

 

Approved 8-21-23   Reviewed     Revised    

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

 

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

 

503.8 Discipline of Students Who Make Threats of Violence or Cause Incidents of Violence

Please refer to attachemnt. 

Approved 3/21/2024

503.8R(1) - Discipline of Students Who Make Threats of Violence or Cause Incidents of Violence - Student Threats of violence and Incidents of Violence

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

Incident Levels Defined

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

Level 1 Defined:
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Level 2 Defined:
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Level 3 Defined:
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Timeframe for Determining Repeated Incidents

The District will consider all incidents occurring within ____________[the school year] as sufficiently close in proximity between incidents to establish that a repeated incident has occurred. The rationale for establishing this timeframe is _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________. 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:

●      _________________________________________________________

●      _________________________________________________________

●      _________________________________________________________

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

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

●      The specificity of the threat for time, location or individual(s) targeted

●      The reasonable likelihood of the student’s ability to carry out the threat

●      The reasonable likelihood that the threat will interfere with the operation of the educational environment

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

NOTE:  Iowa law requires school boards to collaborate with teachers and administrators in adopting a policy related to threats of violence and incidents of violence. This accompanying regulation is designed to supplement the framework provided by the Department of Education in policy 503.8 and be edited and completed by boards through a collaborative process involving relevant stakeholders for the district. 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §279.79
Approved 03/21/24

504.1 Student Governement

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

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 279.8.

 

Cross Reference:

 

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

504 Student Activities

 

 

Approved 2-18-03       Reviewed 4-21-08 3-25-14  1-28-19       Revised

 

504.6 Student Activity Program

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

 

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

 

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

 

A high school student who participates in school sponsored athletics may participate in a non-school sponsored sport during the same season with approval of the superintendent or designee.

 

Such outside participation will not conflict with the school sponsored athletic activity.

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. Ch. 38. 34 C.F.R. Pt. 106. Iowa Code §§

216.9; 280.13-.14. 281 I.A.C. 12.6., ch. 36..

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

504 Student Activities

507 Student Health and Well-Being

 

Approved 2-16-04  Reviewed 4-21-08  3-25-14  1-28-19                            Revised  1-28-19; 2-15-21

 

505.1 Student Progress Reports and Conferences

Students will receive a report prior to the fall and spring conference. Students, who are doing poorly, and their parents or guardians, are to be notified at least weekly in order for students to have an opportunity to improve their grade. The board expects that all students and parents will receive notification for those who have made marked improvement, as this occurs.

 

Parent-teacher-student conferences will be individually scheduled and held in the Fall and Spring at the to keep the parents or guardians informed.

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 256.11; ch. 280. 281I.A.C. 12.1(7).

 

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

506 Student Records

 

 

Approved 2-18-03   Reviewed 4-21-08  3-25-14  1-28-19 Revised 2-16-09

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 retention of a student will be determined based upon the judgment of the licensed employee and the principal. 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. It is within the sole discretion of the board to retain students in their current grade level.

 

Students in grades nine through twelve will be informed of the required course work necessary to be promoted each year. When it becomes evident a student in these grades will be unable to meet the minimum credit requirements for the year, the student and parents will be informed. It is within the sole discretion of the board to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.

 

Parents may request an informal hearing with the grade level principal and the licensed employee(s) to discuss the decision of promotion, retention or acceleration. Only after an informal hearing with the grade level principal and the licensed employee may the parents request an informal hearing with the superintendent.

 

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.

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 256.11;279.8; 280.3. 281 I.A.C. 12.5(16).

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

 

 

Approved 11-17-03                             Reviewed 4-21-08      3-25-14  1-28-19        Revised

505.2R1 Acceleration Policy

 

Research conducted nationally and within Iowa’s public schools has demonstrated that academic acceleration can be a powerful and cost-effective strategy for providing appropriately challenging, standards-based instruction for students who are ready to learn above grade-level content.  Acceleration has also been shown to increase motivation, reduce apathy, and enhance the social and emotional well-being of appropriately selected students. 
 
Policy on Academic Acceleration: 
In accordance with the belief that all students are entitled to an education commensurate with their particular needs, students who can exceed the essential skills and concepts set forth in the curriculum standards must be afforded the opportunity and be encouraged to do so. 
 
The East Union Board of Education believes that such students often require access to advanced curriculum in order to realize their potential contribution to themselves and society. 
 
All students learn and experience success given time and opportunity, but the degree to which academic content standards are met and the time it takes to reach the standards will vary from student to student. The East Union Board of Education believes that all students, including advanced learners, should be challenged and supported to reach their full potential. For many advanced learners, this can best be achieved by affording them access to curriculum, learning environments, and instructional interventions more commonly provided to older peers. 
 
This policy describes the process that shall be used for evaluating students for possible accelerated placement and identifying students who should be accelerated in one or more individual subject areas, promoted to a higher grade level than their same-age peers, and granted early graduation from high school. 
 
1) Referrals and Evaluation 
 
a) Any student residing in the district may be referred by a teacher, administrator, gifted education specialist, guidance counselor, school psychologist, or a parent or legal guardian of the student to the principal (or his or her designee) of his or her school for evaluation for possible accelerated placement. A student may refer himself or herself or a peer through a district staff member who has knowledge of the referred student’s abilities. 
 
b) Copies of this policy and referral forms for evaluation for possible, whole-grade acceleration, individual subject acceleration, and early high school graduation shall be made available to district staff and parents at each school building. The principal of each school building (or his or her designee) shall solicit referrals of students for evaluation for possible accelerated placement annually, and ensure that all staff he or she supervises are aware of procedures for referring students for evaluation for possible accelerated placement. 
 
c) The principal (or his or her designee) of the referred student’s school shall obtain written permission from the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) to evaluate the student for possible accelerated placement. The district shall evaluate all students who are referred for evaluation and whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) have granted permission to evaluate the student for possible accelerated placement. 
 
d) Students who are referred for evaluation for possible accelerated placement sixty or more days prior to the start of the school year shall be evaluated in advance of the start of the school year so that the student may be placed in the accelerated placement on the first day of school. Students who are referred for possible accelerated placement sixty or more days prior to the start of the second semester shall be evaluated for possible accelerated placement at the start of the second semester. In all other cases, evaluations of a referred student shall be scheduled at the student’s principal’s discretion and placed in the accelerated setting(s) at the time recommended by the Acceleration Evaluation Committee – if the committee determines the student should be accelerated. 
 
e) A parent or legal guardian of the evaluated student shall be notified in writing of the outcome of the evaluation process within 45 days of the submission of the referral to the referred student’s principal. This notification shall include instructions for appealing the outcome of the evaluation process. 
 
f) A parent or legal guardian of the referred student may appeal in writing the decision of the evaluation committee to the local Superintendent within thirty days of being notified of the committee’s decision. The Superintendent shall review the appeal and notify the parent or legal guardian who filed the appeal of his or her final decision within thirty days of receiving the appeal. 
 
The Superintendent’s decision shall be final. However, the student may be referred and evaluated again at the next available opportunity if he or she is again referred for evaluation by an individual eligible to make referrals as described in this policy.
 
2) Acceleration Evaluation Committee 
 
The referred student’s principal (or his or her designee) shall convene an evaluation committee to determine the most appropriate available learning environment for the referred student. This committee shall be comprised of the following: 
 
(a) A principal or assistant principal from the child’s student’s current school; 
(b) A current teacher of the referred student; 
(c) A teacher at the grade level to which the student may be accelerated (with the exception of students referred for possible early graduation from high school); 
(d) A parent or legal guardian of the referred student or a representative designated by a parent or legal guardian of the referred student; 
(e) A gifted education coordinator or gifted intervention specialist. If a gifted coordinator or gifted intervention specialist is not available in the district, a school psychologist or guidance counselor with expertise in the appropriate use of academic acceleration may be substituted. 
(f) The Acceleration Evaluation Committee shall be charged with the following responsibilities:
(i) The Acceleration Evaluation Committee shall conduct a fair and thorough evaluation of the student. 
(ii) Students considered for whole-grade acceleration in grades K-8 shall be evaluated using the Iowa Acceleration Scale created by the Connie Belin & Jacqueline N. Blank International Center for Gifted Education and Talent Development. 
(iii) Students considered for individual subject acceleration shall be evaluated using a variety of data sources, including measures of achievement based on district and state academic content standards and consideration of the student’s maturity and desire for accelerated placement. The committee shall consider the student’s own thoughts on possible accelerated placement in its deliberations. 
(iv) Students referred for possible early high school graduation shall be evaluated based on past academic performance, measures of achievement based on state academic content standards, and successful completion of state mandated graduation requirements. The committee shall consider the student’s own thoughts on possible accelerated placement in its deliberations. 
 
(g) The Acceleration Evaluation Committee shall issue a written decision to the principal and the student’s parent or legal guardian based on the outcome of the evaluation process. If a consensus recommendation cannot be reached by the committee, a decision regarding whether or not to accelerate the student will be determined by a majority vote of the committee membership. 
(h) The Acceleration Evaluation Committee shall develop a written acceleration plan for students who will be whole-grade accelerated, or accelerated in one or more individual subject areas. The parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the student shall be provided with a copy of the written acceleration plan. The written acceleration plan shall specify: 
(i) placement of the student in an accelerated setting; 
(ii) strategies to support a successful transition to the accelerated setting; 
(iii) requirements and procedures for earning high school credit prior to entering high school (if applicable); and, 
(iv) an appropriate transition period for grade-level accelerated students, and students accelerated in individual content areas. 
(i) For students the Acceleration Evaluation Committee recommends for early high school graduation, the committee shall develop a written acceleration plan designed to allow the student to complete graduation requirements on an accelerated basis. 
(j) The Acceleration Evaluation Committee shall designate a school staff member to ensure successful implementation of the written acceleration plan and to monitor the adjustment of the student to the accelerated setting. 
 
3) Accelerated Placement 
 
a) The Acceleration Evaluation Committee shall specify an appropriate transition period for accelerated placement grade-level accelerated students, and students accelerated in individual subject areas. 
b) At any time during the transition period, a parent or legal guardian of the student may request in writing that the student be withdrawn from accelerated placement. In such cases, the principal shall remove the student without repercussions from the accelerated placement. 
c) At the end of the transition period, the accelerated placement shall become permanent. The student’s records shall be modified accordingly, and the acceleration implementation plan shall become part of the student’s permanent record to facilitate continuous progress through the curriculum. 
 
Citation: Ohio Department of Education

505.3 Students Honors and Awards

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 279.8.

 

Cross Reference:

504 Student Activities

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

 

 

Approved 11-17-03                            Reviewed 4-21-08      3-25-14  1-28-19         Revised

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 State Department of Education, to submit to a survey, analysis or evaluation that reveals information concerning:

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

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

    ∙    sex behavior or attitudes;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Legal Reference:    20 U.S.C. § 1232h 

    Iowa Code §§ 280.3

    

 

Cross Reference:    505    Student Scholastic Achievement

    506    Student Records

    607.2    Student Health Services

 

Approved       8-21-23                   Reviewed                       Revised                   

 

505.5 Graduation Requirements

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

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

Subject

Credits Required

Class Offerings to Meet Requirements

Mathematics

3

Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Statistics, General Math, Advanced Math, Accounting

English

4

ELA 9, ELA 10, Literature or Strategic Literature, Composition/Creative Writing or Applied Composition, Speech Literature, Speech

Science

3

Physical Science, Biology, Applied Chemistry or Chemistry, Physics, Anatomy & Physiology, Zoology, Innovative Science, Health

Social Studies

3

American History, World History, American Government/Economics, Sociology, World Studies, Western Civilization I & II (beginning with class of 2020)

Physical Education

2

State required non-academic education subject. The state requires the student to have 120 minutes per week for completion of Physical Education contract.

21st Century Skills

1

Local requirement beginning with the graduating class of 2016.

Total required subjects

16

 

Total elective credits

14

Courses offered in the areas of Agricultural Required Education, Family Consumer Sciences, Business, Marketing, Art, Music, Band,

Physical Education, College Classes and any courses taken in Math, Science, English, & Social Studies that is beyond the graduation requirement listed above.

Total credits required

30

 

 

VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY SERVICE GRADUATION REQUIREMENT

East Union students must complete 50 hours of volunteer community service before May 1st of their senior year as a requirement for graduation. Service may be in the summer prior to a student’s freshmen year. The breakdown for the number of hours each year is as follows:

Freshmen - 10 hours Sophomores - 10 hours Juniors - 15 hours Seniors - 15 hours

If a student enrolls at East Union High School after the first semester of their freshmen year, the requirement will be prorated to the number of semesters enrolled in at East Union. Volunteer service hours can be counted from organizations/clubs (FFA, FCCLA, Science Club, Spanish Club, and other groups that give honors or credit for service) as long as the hours are outside of the school day and not a requirement for the organization/club. Students will be required to report volunteer community service hours to their homeroom advisor as a part of their portfolio presented at the two Student Led conferences each school year. Students can count volunteer hours during the school day as long as the activity is approved by the administration. A student must have their schoolwork completed for the hours that will be missed in school by volunteering during the school day. Volunteers may not receive payment or course credit for volunteer service honors. Family members and/or fellow students cannot act as the supervisor nor can they verify volunteer hours. A listing of possible volunteer activities will be available to students from their homeroom advisors.

Graduation requirements for special education students will be in accordance with the prescribed course of study as described in their Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 256.11; 279.8; 280.3, .14. 281 I.A.C. 12.2, .5.

 

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

603.3 Special Education

 

Approved 5-19-03; 8-21-23    Reviewed 4-21-08    3-25-14  1-28-19    11-22-21 11-20-23    Revised 5-16-05  1-28-19 8-21-23

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.

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3. 281 I.A.C. 12.2,.5.

 

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

 

 

Approved 5-19-03                                 Reviewed 4-21-08      3-25-14  1-28-19   Revised

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 is the responsibility of the principal to solicit input from each graduating class regarding the proceedings for their commencement.

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

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

 

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

 

 

Approved 11-15-04                              Reviewed 4-21-08     3-25-14  1-28-19        Revised

505.8 Parental Involvement

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

 

 

  1. The board will involve parents in the development of the Title I plan school review twice each year.   One meeting to take place at the first of each new school year and a second meeting to take place at the end of each school year to receive community comments on the plan for improvement.
  2. The board will allow for the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) to review all data on student performance and information on the CSIP to allow for community participation. SIAC will suggest improvement to the board and at least annually. This district advisory committee is appointed each year by the board to ensure parent involvement.
  3. The board will encourage community meetings and encourage additional information to be placed in the Afton Star and the East Union School Newsletter. The district will also use KSIB radio station and other support groups such as the PTO, etc.
  4. The board will receive reports on Title I, Reading First and Early Intervention Programs to support each effort and consider teacher in-service to support Reading and Math based data collected on each subgroup of Title I students.
  5. Parents with low SES & LEP will be identified and invited to attend all meetings on Title I. Meetings will gather information for evaluation to design strategies for more effective parental involvement and to revise as necessary the parental involvement policies.
  6. Title I program will encourage volunteers from both parents and students and will encourage parents to attend all Title I meetings.

 

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

 

Cross References:

903.2 Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

 

 

Approved 11-04-04                                Reviewed 4-21-08     3-25-14  1-28-19      11-22-21   11-20-23           Revised

506.1 Student Records Access

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

Parents and eligible students will have access to the student's records during the regular business hours of the school district. An eligible student is a student who has reached eighteen years of age or is attending an institution of postsecondary education at the post high school level. Parents of an eligible student are provided access to the student records only with the written permission of the eligible student unless the eligible student is defined as a dependent by the Internal Revenue Code. In that case, the parents may be provided access without the written permission of the student. A representative of the parents or eligible student, who has received written permission from the parents or eligible student, may inspect and review a special education student's records. Parents, other than parents of an eligible student, may be denied access to a student's records if the school district has a court order stating such or when the district has been advised under the appropriate laws that the parents may not access the student records. Parents may inspect an instrument used for the purpose of collection of student personal information prior to the instrument’s use.

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

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

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

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

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

If the school district determines that amendment of the student's record is not appropriate, it will inform the parents or the eligible student of their right to a hearing before the hearing officer provided by the school district.

If the parents' and the eligible student's request to amend the student record is further denied following the hearing, the parents or the eligible student are informed that they have a right to place an explanatory letter in the student record commenting on the school district's decision or setting forth the reasoning for disagreeing with the school district. Additions to the student's records will become a part of the student record and be maintained like other student records. If the school district discloses the student records, the explanation by the parents will also be disclosed.

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

to school officials within the school district and AEA personnel whom the superintendent has determined to have a legitimate educational interest, including, but not limited to, board members, employees, school attorney, auditor, health professionals, and individuals serving on official school committees; to officials of another school district in which the student wishes to enroll, provided the other school district notifies the parents the student records are being sent and the parents have an opportunity to receive a copy of the records and challenge the contents of the records unless the annual notification includes a provision that records will automatically be transferred to new school districts; to the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education or state and local educational authorities; in connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received if the information is necessary to receive the financial aid; to organizations conducting educational studies and the study does not release personally identifiable information; to accrediting organizations; to parents of a dependent student as defined in the Internal Revenue Code; to comply with a court order or judicially issued subpoena; pursuant to any interagency agreement between the school district and juvenile justice agencies; in connection with a health or safety emergency; or as directory information.

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

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

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

When personally identifiable information, other than permanent student records, no longer needs to be maintained by the school district to provide educational services to a special education student, the parents or eligible student are notified. This notice is normally given after a student graduates or otherwise leaves the school district. If the parents or eligible student request that the personally identifiable information be destroyed, the school district will destroy the records. Prior to the destruction of the records, the school district must inform the parents or eligible student the records may be needed by the parents or eligible student for social security benefits or other purposes.

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

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

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

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

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

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to annually notify parents and eligible students of their right to inspect and review the student's records. The notice is given in a parents' or eligible student's native language. Should the school district collect personal information from students for the purposes of marketing or selling that information, the school district will annually notify parents of such activity. The notice will include a statement that the parents have a right to file a complaint alleging the school district failed to comply with this policy. Complaints are forwarded to Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, Washington, DC. 20202-4605.

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. §§ 1232g, 1415. 34 C.F.R. Pt. 99, 300.

Iowa Code ch. 22; §§ 279.9a, 279.9b, 280.24, .25, 622.10. 281 I.A.C. 12.3(4); ch. 41. 1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720, 825.

 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

506 Student Records

507 Student Health and Well-Being

603.3 Special Education

708 Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records

901 Public Examination of School District Records

 

 

Approved                                    Reviewed          3-25-14  1-28-19   11-22-21 11-20-23   Revised 7-17-12  1-28-19

506.1E1 Student Records Checklist

Checklist attached

506.1E2 Request on Non-parent for Examination or copies of Student Records

Request form attached.

506.1E3 Authorization for Release of Student Records

Request form attached.

506.1E4 Request for Hearing on Correction of Student Records

Request form attached.

506.1E5 Request for Examination of Student Records

Request form attached.

506.1E6 Notification of Transfer of Students Records

Request form attached.

506.1E7 Letter to Parents Regarding Receipt of a Subpoena

Copy of letter attached.

506.1E8 Juvenile Justice Agency Information Sharing Agreement

Sharring Agreement attached.

506.1E9 Annual Notice

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. They are:

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

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

  1. 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.

Parents or eligible students may ask the school district to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.

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

  1. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception, which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the district has contracted to  perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, AEA employees, 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 official in performing his or her tasks.

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

[Upon request, the district discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. (Note: FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent or eligible student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on request.)]

  1. The right to inform the school district that the parent does not want directory information, as defined below, to be released. Directory information can be released without prior parental consent.

Any student over the age of eighteen or parent not wanting this information released to the public must make object in writing by September 1 to the principal. The objection needs to be renewed annually.

“Directory Information” includes the following information about students:

  • Name
  • Home address, e-mail address, and telephone number
  • Birthdate and place of birth
  • Grade level
  • Enrollment status
  • Major field of study
  • Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
  • Weight and height of members of athletic teams
  • Dates of attendance
  • Degrees and awards received
  • Most recent school or institution attended
  • Photograph and likeness
  1. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland

506.1R1 Use of Student Records Regulation

 

Student records are all official records, files, and data directly related to students, including all material incorporated into each student's cumulative record folder and intended for school use or to be available to parties outside the school or school system specifically including, but 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.
 
The intent of this regulation is to establish procedures for granting requests from parents for access to their child's records, use of the data, and procedures for its transmittal within forty-five calendar days.
 
A. Access to Records
 
1. The parent or legal guardian of a student will have access to these records upon written request to the board secretary.
 
The parent or legal guardian will, upon written request to the board secretary, have the opportunity to receive an interpretation of the records, have the right to question the data, and, if a difference of opinion is noted, is permitted to file a letter in the cumulative folder stating the dissenting person's position. If further challenge is made to the record, the normal appeal procedures established by school policy will be followed.
 
A student, eighteen years or older, has the right to determine who, outside the school system, has access to the records. Parents of students who are 18 years or older but still dependents for income tax purposes may access the student's records without prior permission of the student.
 
2. School officials having access to student records are defined as having a legitimate educational interest. A school official is a person employed by the school district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the school district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, AEA employee, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as disciplinary or grievance committee or student assistance team, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. 
 
B. Release of Information Outside the School
 
1. To release student records to other school(s) in which the student intends to enroll, the parents, legal guardian, or eligible student must be notified of the transfer and the kinds of information being released unless the school district annually notifies parents that the records will be sent automatically.
 
2. Student records may be released to official education and other government agencies only if allowed by state or federal law.
 
3. To release student records to other persons or agencies, written consent is given by the parent, legal guardian, or a student of majority age. This consent form will state which records are released, to whom they are released, and the reason for the release. A copy of the specific records being released will be made available to the person signing the release form if requested.
 
4. Before furnishing student records in compliance with judicial orders or pursuant to any lawfully issued subpoena, the school district will make a reasonable attempt to notify the parents, legal guardian, or eligible student are notified in advance.
 
5. Student records may be shared with juvenile justice agencies with which the school district has an interagency agreement. This information is shared without prior parental consent. The agreement is a public document available for inspection.
 
Hearing Procedures
 
1. Upon parental request, the school district will hold a hearing regarding the content of a student’s records which the parent believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the privacy rights of students.
 
2. 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.
 
3. 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.
 
4. 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.
 
5. 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.
 
6. The parents may appeal the hearing officers decision to the superintendent within 5  days if the superintendent does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing.
 
7. The parents may appeal the superintendent’s decision, or the hearing officers decision if the superintendent was unable to hear the appeal, to the board within  5 days. It is within the discretion of the board to hear the appeal. 

506.2 Student Directory Information

Student directory information is designed to be used internally within the school district. Directory information is defined in the annual notice. It may include the student's name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, e-mail address, grade level, enrollment status, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student, student ID number, user ID or other unique personal identifier, photograph and other likeness, and other similar information. 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.

 

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. § 1232g.  34 C.F.R. Pt. 99, 300.560 - .574.  Iowa Code ch. 22;

622.10.  281 I.A.C. 12.3(4); 41.123.  1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720.

 

Cross Reference:

504 Student Activities

506 Student Records

901 Public Examination of School District Records

902.4 Live Broadcast or videotaping

 

Approved                                 Reviewed       3-25-14  1-28-19    11-22-21  11-20-23     Revised 7-17-12

506.2E1 Authorization for Releasing Student Directory Information

Authorization attached.

506.2R1 Use of Directory Information

The student handbook or similar publication given to each student which contains general information about the school will contain the following statement which is published at least annually in a prominent place or in a newspaper of general circulation in the school district:

 

The following information may be released to the public in regard to any individual student of the school district as needed. Any student over the age of eighteen or parent not wanting this information released to the public must make objection in writing by to the principal. The objection needs to be renewed annually.

 

NAME, ADDRESS, TELEPHONE LISTING, EMAIL ADDRESS, DATE AND PLACE OF BIRTH, MAJOR FIELD OF STUDY, PARTICIPATION IN OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZED ACTIVITIES AND SPORTS, WEIGHT AND HEIGHT OF MEMBERS OF ATHLETIC TEAMS, DATES OF ATTENDANCE, DEGREES AND AWARDS RECEIVED, THE MOST RECENT PREVIOUS SCHOOL OR INSTITUTION ATTENDED BY THE STUDENT, PHOTOGRAPH AND LIKENESS AND OTHER SIMILAR INFORMATION.

 

DATED                                                                 , 20       

506.3 Student Photographs

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8.  1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 114.

 

Cross Reference: 506 Student Records

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                           Reviewed 4-21-08    3-25-14  1-28-19  Revised

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 U.S. Comptroller General, the Secretary of Education, the Commissioner and Director of the National Institute of Education, and the Assistant Secretary for Education and State Education Department. Appropriate authorities in a health or safety emergency may access the student's library circulation records without the approval or the notification of the student's parents. Parents may not access records, without the student's permission, of a student who has reached the age of majority or who is attending a post-secondary educational institution unless the student is considered a dependent for tax purposes.

 

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. § 1232g.  34 C.F.R. Pt. 99.  Iowa Code ch. 22.  281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), (12).  1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720, 825.

 

Cross Reference:

506 Student Records

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                          Reviewed 4-21-08       3-25-14  1-28-19            Revised

507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 139A.8(6).  641 I.A.C. 7.7(139)

 

Cross Reference:

402.2 Child Abuse Reporting

501 Student Attendance

507 Student Health and Well-Being

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                           Reviewed 4-21-08  3-25-14  1-28-19    Revised

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.  Administration of medication may also occur consistent with board policy 804.05 – Stock Prescription Medication Supply.

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

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

A written medication administration record shall be on file including: 

    date; 

    student’s name; 

    prescriber or person authorizing administration; 

    medication; 

    medication dosage;

    administration time; 

    administration method; 

    signature and title of the person administering medication; and 

    any unusual circumstances, actions, or omissions.

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

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

Note:  This is a mandatory policy.  

NOTE: Iowa law requires school districts to allow students with asthma, airway constricting disease or respiratory disease to carry and self-administer their medication as long as the parents and prescribing physician report and approve in writing.  Students do not have to prove competency to the school district. The consent form, see 507.2E1, is all that is required.  School districts that determine students are abusing their self-administration may either withdraw the self-administration if medically advisable or discipline the student, or both.  

NOTE: School districts may stock over-the-counter, nonprescription medications that are not for life- threatening incidents.  The policy for medication administration covers prescription and nonprescription medication.

NOTE: Disposal procedures reflect the Iowa Department of Education School .Hazardous Waste and Medication Management Guidance, issued 2021-2022: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Portals/idnr/uploads/waste/swfact_schoolhazardou...

 

Legal Reference:    Disposing on Behalf of Ultimate Users, 79 Fed. Reg. 53520, 53546 (Sept. 9, 2014). 

Iowa Code §§124.101(1); 147.107; 152.1; 155A.4(2); 280.16; 280.23. 

            655 IAC §6.2(152). 

            281 IAC §14.1, .2

 

Cross Reference:    506    Student Records

    507    Student Health and Well-Being

    603.3    Special Education

    607.2    Student Health Services

 

Approved 2-18-03   8-21-23                    Reviewed 4-21-08    3-25-14  1-28-19    11-22-21  11-20-23   Revised 8-21-23

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, or other airway constricting disease medication or to self-administer an epinephrine auto-injector: 

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

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

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

AUTHORIZATION-ASTHMA, AIRWAY CONSTRICTING, OR RESPIRATORY DISTRESS MEDICATIONSELF-ADMINISTRATION CONSENT FORM

________________             ______________              __________________        _______________

Medication                           Dosage                              Route                                   Time

_________________________________________________________________________________

Purpose of Medication & Administration /Instructions
 

________________________________________                                        ___________/___________/____________

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

__________/_________/_____________   

Prescriber’s Signature Date

 

___________________________________________________     ______________________________

Prescriber’s Address                                                                          Emergency Phone

 

I request the above-named student possess and self-administer asthma medication, bronchodilators canisters or spacers, or other airway constricting disease medication(s) and/or an epinephrine auto-injector at school and in school activities according to the authorization and instructions. 

  • I understand the school district and its employees acting reasonably and in good faith shall incur no liability for any improper use of medication or an epinephrine auto-injector or for supervising, monitoring, or interfering with a student's self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector. I acknowledge that the school district is to incur no liability, except for gross negligence, as a result of self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector by the student.
  • I agree to coordinate and work with school personnel and notify them when questions arise or relevant conditions change.
  • I agree to provide safe delivery of medication and equipment to and from school and to pick up remaining medication and equipment. 
  • I agree the information is shared with school personnel in accordance with the Family Educational 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                          

 

507.2E2 Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Medication or Special Health Services to Students

  PARENTAL AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE FORM FOR THE ADMINISTRATION 

OF MEDICATION OR SPECIAL HEALTH SERVICES TO STUDENTS

_________________________________    ___/___/___    _________________    ___/___/___

Student's Name (Last), (First),  (Middle)         Birthday           School                           Date

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

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

__________________    ________      ________      _____________                                                      

Prescribed Medication    Dosage            Route            Time at School

Special Health Services and instructions, in indicated:
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
                                               

___________ / ___________ / _____________   

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

____________________________________________    ___________ / ___________ / _____________   

Prescriber’s Signature                                                                                    Date

And credentials (when indicated for health service delivery)

 ____________________________________________    ___________ / ___________ / _____________                                             

Parent/Guardian Signature                                                                                Date

_______________________________________        __________________________

Parent/Guardian address                                                    Home phone

PARENTAL AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE FORM FOR THE ADMINISTRATION 

OF MEDICATION OR SPECIAL HEALTH SERVICES TO STUDENTS

 

                                    /    /    

Parent's Signature                        Date

 

                                            

Parent's Address                        Home Phone

 

                                            

Additional Information                        Business Phone

                                                

        

                                                

 

                                                

Authorization Form

 

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

_________________________________    ___/___/___    _________________    ___/___/___

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

 

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

Other: ____________________ administered per manufacturer label (Please Specify)

Other: ____________________ administered per manufacturer label (Please Specify)

Other: ____________________ administered per manufacturer label (Please Specify)

Other: ____________________ administered per manufacturer label (Please Specify)

 

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

Parent has provided a signed, dated annual authorization to administer of the nonprescription, over-the-counter medication(s) listed according to the manufacturer instructions. Electronic signature meets the requirement of written signature.

The nonprescription, over-the-counter medication is in the original, labeled container and dispensed per the manufacturing label.

All other nonprescription, over-the-counter medication not listed will require a written parent authorization and supply for the over-the counter medication. 

Supplements are not nonprescription, over-the-counter medications approved by the Federal Drug Administration and are NOT applicable. 

Nonprescription, over-the-counter medications approved by the Federal Drug Administration that require emergency medical service (EMS) notification after administration are NOT applicable.

Persons administering nonprescription, over-the-counter medication include licensed health personnel working under the auspices of the school and individuals, whom licensed health personnel have delegated the administration of medication with valid certification who have successfully completed a medication administration course approved by the department and annual medication administration procedural skills check.

Districts stocking the administration of a voluntary stock of nonprescription, over-the-counter medications, collaborate with licensed health personnel to develop and adopt a protocol shared with the parent to define at a minimum:

when to contact the parent when a nonprescription medication, over the counter medication is administered; 

documentation of the administration of the nonprescription, over-the-counter medication and parent contact;

a limit to the administration of a school’s stock nonprescription, over-the-counter medications that would require a prescriber signature for further administration of a school’s nonprescription, over-the-counter medications for the remaining school year;

the development of an individual health plan for ongoing medication administration or health service delivery at school.

 

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

 

__________________________________________        _________________________

Parent Signature                                                                 Date    

 

__________________________________________        _________________________

Parent/Guardian Address                                                    Home Phone        

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" will 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 is included in the school district's bloodborne pathogens exposure control plan. The procedures will 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 is reviewed annually by the superintendent and school nurse.

 

The health risk to immunosuppressed students is 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 is determined on a case-by-case basis by the student's personal physician, a physician chosen by the school district or public health officials.

 

A student who is a school and who has a communicable disease which creates a substantial risk of harm to other students, employees, or others at school will report the condition to the Superintendent any time the student is aware that the disease actively creates such risk.

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

29 U.S.C. §§ 701 et seq.. 45 C.F.R. Pt. 84.3 et seq. Iowa Code § 139A.8. 641 I.A.C. 1.2-.5, ch. 7.

 

Cross Reference:

403.3 Communicable Diseases - Employees

506 Student Records

507 Student Health and Well-Being

 

 

Approved 2-19-03                      Reviewed  4-21-08     3-25-14  1-28-19   11-22-21  11-20-23   Revised 2-16-09

507.3E1 Communicable Disease Chart

Chart attached

507.3E2 Reportable Infectious Diseases

Attached

507.3E3 Reporting Form

Form attached

507.4 Student Illness or Injury at School

Students who become ill or are injured at school will be given first aid if possible. The school district will attempt to notify the student's parents as soon as possible. Instructions will be requested as to the disposal of the case. When the parent has no telephone or cannot be reached, the ill or injured child may be transported home, to the hospital, or to a doctor’s office by a member of the school staff.

 

In cases of emergency, the pupil shall be transported to a hospital or a doctor’s office by ambulance or another convenient type of transportation. If possible, the family physician listed on the office records shall be contacted.

 

Annually, parents are 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.

 

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

 

The Board assumes no responsibility for medical treatment of students. If a student must take prescribed medication during school hours, written authorization and instructions must be provided by the parents or legal guardian of the student, with such instruction being on file in the appropriate school office.

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 613.17.

 

Cross Reference:

507 Student Health and Well-Being

 

 

Approved 2-19-03                    Reviewed  4-21-08 3-25-14  1-28-19           Revised 2-16-09

507.5 Emergency Plans and Drills

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 100.31.

 

Cross Reference:

507 Student Health and Well-Being

711.7 School Bus Safety Instruction

804 Safety Program

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                          Reviewed 4-21-08    3-25-14  1-28-19   Revised

 

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.

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8.

 

Cross Reference:

504 Student Activities

507 Student Health and Well-Being

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                          Reviewed 4-21-08  3-25-14  1-28-19     Revised

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 or parental rights. Court orders that have been issued are followed by the school district. It is the responsibility of the person requesting an action by the school district to inform and provide the school district the court order allowing such action.

 

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

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

 

Cross Reference:

506 Student Records

507 Student Health and Well-Being

 

Approved 2-18-03  Reviewed  4-21-08  3-25-14  1-28-19               Revised

507.8 Student Special Health Services

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

 

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

 

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. §§ 1400 et seq. 34 C.F.R. Pt. 300 et seq. Iowa Code ch. 256B; §§ 256.11(7);  273.2, .5, .9; 280.8. 281 I.A.C. 12.3(7), ch. 41.

 

Cross Reference:

 

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

506 Student Records

603.3 Special Education

 

 

Approved 2-18-03                               Reviewed 4-21-08      3-25-14  1-28-19    11-22-21   11-20-23    Revised

507.8R1 Special Health Services Regulataion

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

  1. Definitions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Interpretation or intervention,
  • Administration of health procedures and health care, or
  • Use of a health device to compensate for the reduction or loss of a body function.

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

  • physically present.
  • available at the same site.
  • available on call
  1. Licensed health personnel will provide special health services under the auspices of the school. Duties of the licensed personnel include the duty to:
    • Participate as a member of the education team.
    • Provide the health assessment.
    • Plan, implement and evaluate the written individual health plan.
    • Plan, implement and evaluate special emergency health services.
    • Serve as liaison and encourage participation and communication with health service agencies and individuals providing health care.
    • Provide health consultation, counseling and instruction with the eligible student, the student's parent and the staff in cooperation and conjunction with the prescriber.
    • Maintain a record of special health services. The documentation includes the eligible student's name, special health service, prescriber or person authorizing, date and time, signature and title of the person providing the special health service and any unusual circumstances in the provision of such services.
    • Report unusual circumstances to the parent, school administration, and prescriber.
    • Assign and delegate to, instruct, provide technical assistance and supervise qualified designated personnel.
    • Update knowledge and skills to meet special health service needs.
  1. Prior to the provision of special health services the following will be on file:
    • Written statement by the prescriber detailing the specific method and schedule of the special health service, when indicated.
    • Written statement by the student's parent requesting the provision of the special health service.
    • Written report of the preplanning staffing or meeting of the education team.
    • Written individual health plan available in the health record and integrated into the IEP or IFSP.
  1. Licensed health personnel, in collaboration with the education team, will determine the special health services to be provided and the qualifications of individuals performing the special health services. The documented rationale will include the following:
    • Analysis and interpretation of the special health service needs, health status stability, complexity of the service, predictability of the service outcome and risk of improperly performed service.
    • Determination that the special health service, task, procedure or function is part of the person's job description.
    • Determination of the assignment and delegation based on the student's needs.
    • Review of the designated person's competency.
    • Determination of initial and ongoing level of supervision required to ensure quality services.
  1. Licensed health personnel will supervise the special health services, define the level of supervision and document the supervision.
  1. Licensed health personnel will instruct qualified designated personnel to deliver and perform special health services contained in the eligible individual health plan. Documentation of instruction and periodic updates are on file at school.
  1. Parents will provide the usual equipment, supplies and necessary maintenance for such. The equipment is stored in a secure area. The personnel responsible for the equipment are designated in the individual health plan. The individual health plan will designate the role of the school, parents, and others in the provision, supply, storage and maintenance of necessary equipment.

507.9 East Union Wellness Policy

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

The school district will develop a local wellness policy committee comprised of parents, students, and representatives of the school food authority, the school board, school administrators, and the public, physical education teachers, and school health professionals. The local wellness policy committee will develop a plan to implement the local wellness policy and periodically review and update the policy.  The committee will designate an individual to monitor implementation and evaluation the implementation of the policy. The committee will report annually to the board and community regarding the content and effectiveness of this policy and recommend updates if needed. When monitoring implementation, schools will be evaluated individually with reports prepared by each school and the school district as a whole. The report will include which schools are in compliance with this policy, the extent to which this policy compares to model Wellness policies and describe the progress made in achieving the goals of this policy.

 

Specific Wellness Goals specific goals for nutrition education and promotion, (see Appendix A)

 

physical activity, (see Appendix B)

 

other school-based activities that are designed to promote student wellness, (see Appendix C)

 

The nutrition guidelines for all foods available will focus on promoting student health and reducing childhood obesity in the school district.

 

The board will monitor and evaluate this policy by - see Appendix E).

 

 

Legal Reference:

Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, 42 U.S.C. 1751 et seq.;Child Nutrition Act of 1966, 42 U.S.C. 1771 et seq.; Iowa Code §§ 256.7(29), 256.11(6). 281 IAC 12.5(19),

12.5(20), ch. 58.

Cross Reference:

  1. Student Fund Raising
  2. Student Activity Program
  3. 710 School Food Services

 

 

Approved          Reviewed            3-25-14  1-28-19      11-22-21    11-20-23       Revised  7-17-12

 

507.9 Appendix A

 

Nutrition Education and Promotion

 

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

 

is offered at each grade level as part of a sequential, comprehensive, standards-based program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote and protect their health; is part of not only health education classes, but also classroom instruction in subjects such as math, science, language arts, social sciences and elective subjects; includes enjoyable, developmentally appropriate, culturally relevant participatory activities, such as contests, promotions, taste-testing, farm visits and school gardens; promotes fruits, vegetables, whole-grain products, low-fat and fat-free dairy products, healthy food preparation methods and health-enhancing nutrition practices; emphasizes caloric balance between food intake and physical activity; links with meal programs, other foods and nutrition-related community services; and, includes training for teachers and other staff.

507.9 Appendix B

Physical Activity

 

Daily Physical Education

 

The school district will provide physical education that:

 

is for all students in grades K-12 for the entire school year; is taught by a certified physical education teacher; includes students with disabilities, students with special health-care needs may be provided in alternative educational settings; and, engages students in moderate to vigorous activity during at least 50 percent of physical education class time.

 

(The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes a week for elementary students and 225 minutes a week for middle and high school students);

 

Daily Recess

 

Elementary schools should provide recess for students that:

 

is at least 20 minutes a day; is preferably outdoors; encourages moderate to vigorous physical activity verbally and through the provision of space and equipment; and, discourages extended periods (i.e., periods of two or more hours) of inactivity.

 

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

 

Physical Activity and Punishment

 

Employees should not use physical activity (e.g., running laps, pushups) or withhold opportunities for physical activity (e.g., recess, physical education) as punishment.

 

Note - Iowa law now requires elementary students, K-5, to have 30 minutes of physical activity, not physical education, per day. This requirement can be met through a combination of PE, recess, classroom and other activities. Middle and high school students must have at least 120 minutes of physical activity per week. Again this is not just physical education but can be met with a combination of PE, school and non-school sponsored athletics and other activities where the body is exerted. Should a student wish to meet the requirement outside of school, the student and school district must have an agreement detailing the outside activity. A physical activity sample agreement may be found on IASB's Web site at: http://www.ia-sb.org/ WorkArea/showcontent.aspx?id=7768 or the Iowa Department of Education Healthy Kids Act.

 

Physical Activity Opportunities after School

 

After-school child care and enrichment programs will provide and encourage—verbally, and through the provision of space, equipment and activities—daily periods of moderate to vigorous physical activity for all participants.

 

507.9 Appendix C

Other School-Based Activities that Promote Student Wellness Integrating Physical Activity into Classroom Settings

For students to receive the nationally recommended amount of daily physical activity and for students to fully embrace regular physical activity as a personal behavior, students need opportunities for physical activity beyond the physical education class. Toward that end, the school district will:

offer classroom health education that complements physical education by reinforcing the knowledge and self-management skills needed to maintain a physically active lifestyle and to reduce time spent on sedentary activities; discourage sedentary activities, such as watching television, playing computer games, etc.; provide opportunities for physical activity to be incorporated into other subject lessons; and, encourage classroom teachers to provide short physical activity breaks between lessons or classes, as appropriate.

Communication with Parents

The school district will support parents’ efforts to provide a healthy diet and daily physical activity for their children. The school district will:

offer healthy eating seminars for parents, send home nutrition information, post nutrition tips on school web sites and provide nutrient analyses of school menus; encourage parents to pack healthy lunches and    snacks and to refrain from including beverages and foods that do not meet the established nutrition standards for individual foods and beverages; provide parents a list of foods that meet the school district’s snack standards and ideas for healthy celebrations/parties, rewards and fundraising activities; provide opportunities for parents to share their healthy food practices with others in the school community; provide information about physical education and other school-based physical activity opportunities before, during and after the school day; support parents’ efforts to provide their children with opportunities to be physically active outside of school; and, include sharing information about physical activity and physical education through a web site, newsletter, other take-home materials, special events or physical education homework.

Food Marketing in Schools

School-based marketing will be consistent with nutrition education and health promotion. The school district will:

limit food and beverage marketing to the promotion of foods and beverages that meet the nutrition standards for meals or for foods and beverages sold individually; prohibit school-based marketing of brands promoting predominantly low-nutrition foods and beverages; promote healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products; and market activities that promote healthful behaviors (and are therefore allowable) including: vending machine covers promoting water; pricing structures that promote healthy options in a la carte lines or vending machines; sales of fruit for fundraisers; and coupons for discount gym memberships.

Examples: Marketing techniques include the following: logos and brand names on/in vending machines, books or curricula, textbook covers, school supplies, scoreboards, school structures, and sports equipment; educational incentive programs that provide food as a reward; programs that provide schools with supplies when families buy low-nutrition food products; in-school television, such as Channel One; free samples or coupons; and food sales through fundraising activities.

Staff Wellness

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

establish and maintain a staff wellness committee composed of at least one staff member, local hospital representative, dietitian or other health professional, recreation program representative, union representative and employee benefits specialist; develop, promote and oversee a multifaceted plan to promote staff health and wellness developed by the staff wellness committee; base the plan on input solicited from employees and outline ways to encourage healthy eating, physical activity and other elements of a healthy lifestyle among employees.

 

507.9 Appendix D

Nutrition Guidelines for All Foods Available on Campus

School Meals

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

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

Schools should:

engage students and parents, through taste-tests of new entrees and surveys, in selecting foods offered through the meal programs in order to identify new, healthful and appealing food choices; and, share information about the nutritional content of meals with parents and students. (The information could be made available on menus, a web site, on cafeteria menu boards, placards or other point-of purchase materials.)

Breakfast

To ensure that all children have breakfast, either at home or at school, in order to meet their nutritional needs and enhance their ability to learn, schools will:

operate the breakfast program, to the extent possible; arrange bus schedules and utilize methods to serve breakfasts that encourage participation, including serving breakfast in the classroom, “grab-and-go” breakfasts or breakfast during morning break or recess, to the extent possible; notify parents and students of the availability of the School Breakfast Program, where available; and, encourage parents to provide a healthy breakfast for their children through newsletter articles, take home materials or other means.

Free and Reduced-Priced Meals

The school district will make every effort to eliminate any social stigma attached to, and prevent the overt identification of, students who are eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Toward this end, the school district may:

utilize electronic identification and payment systems; provide meals at no charge to all children, regardless of income; and, promote the availability of meals to all students.

Meal Times and Scheduling

The school district:

will provide students with at least 10 minutes to eat after sitting down for breakfast and 20 minutes after sitting down for lunch; should schedule meal periods at appropriate times, e.g., lunch should be scheduled between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; should not schedule tutoring, club or organizational meetings or activities during mealtimes, unless students may eat during such activities; will schedule lunch periods to follow recess periods (in elementary schools); will provide students access to hand washing or hand sanitizing before they eat meals or snacks; and, should take reasonable steps to accommodate the tooth-brushing regimens of students with special oral health needs (e.g., orthodontia or high tooth decay risk).

Qualification of Food Service Staff

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

provide continuing professional development for all nutrition professionals; and, provide staff development programs that include appropriate certification and/or training programs for child nutrition directors, nutrition managers and cafeteria workers, according to their levels of responsibility.

Sharing of Foods

The school district discourages students from sharing their foods or beverages with one another during meal or snack times, given concerns about allergies and other restrictions on some children’s diets.

Foods Sold Outside the Meal (e.g. vending, a la carte, sales)

All foods and beverages sold individually outside the reimbursable meal programs (including those sold through a la carte [snack] lines, vending machines, student stores or fundraising activities) during the school day, or through programs for students after the school day will meet nutrition standards as required by state or federal law. For current state guidelines, click here: http://educateiowa.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1769&catid=838&Itemid=2545.

Fundraising Activities

There are two types of fundraising – regulated and other. Regulated fundraisers are those that offer the sale of foods or beverages on school property and that are targeted primarily to PK-12 students by or through other PK-12 students, student groups, school organizations, or through on-campus school stores. Regulated fundraising activities must comply with the state nutrition guidelines. All other fundraising activities are encouraged, but not required, to comply with the state nutrition guidelines if the activities involve foods and beverages.

The school district encourages fundraising activities that promote physical activity. The school district will make available a list of ideas for acceptable fundraising activities.

Snacks

Snacks served during the school day or in after-school care or enrichment programs will make a positive contribution to children’s diets and health, with an emphasis on serving fruits and vegetables as the primary snacks and water as the primary beverage. Schools will assess if and when to offer snacks based on timing of meals, children’s nutritional needs, children’s ages and other considerations. The school district will disseminate a list of healthful snack items to teachers, after-school program personnel and parents.

If eligible, schools that provide snacks through after-school programs will pursue receiving reimbursements through the National School Lunch Program.

Rewards

The school district will not use foods or beverages, especially those that do not meet the nutrition standards for foods and beverages sold individually, as rewards for academic performance or good behavior, and will not withhold food or beverages (including food served through meals) as a punishment.

Celebrations

Schools should evaluate their celebrations practices that involve food during the school day. The school district will disseminate a list of healthy party ideas to parents and teachers.

School-Sponsored Events

Foods and beverages offered or sold at school-sponsored events outside the school day are encouraged to meet the nutrition standards for meals or for foods and beverages sold individually.

Food Safety

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

All foods made available on campus comply with the state and local food safety and sanitation regulations. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans and guidelines are implemented to prevent food illness in schools. http://www.fns.usda.gov/tn/Resources/ servingsafe_chapter6.pdf For the safety and security of the food and facility, access to the food service operations are limited to child nutrition staff and authorized personnel.

Summer Meals

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

 

507.9 Appendix E

Plan for Measuring Implementation

Monitoring

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

In each school:

the principal will ensure compliance with those policies in the school and will report on the school’s compliance to the superintendent; and, food service staff, at the school or school district level, will ensure compliance with nutrition policies within food service areas and will report on this matter to the superintendent or principal.

In the school district:

the school district will report on the most recent USDA School Meals Initiative (SMI) review findings and any resulting changes. If the school district has not received a SMI review from the state agency within the past five years, the school district will request from the state agency that a SMI review be scheduled as soon as possible; the superintendent will develop a summary report every three years on school district- wide compliance with the school district’s established nutrition and physical activity wellness policies, based on input from schools within the school district; and, the report will be provided to the school board and also distributed to all school wellness committees, parent/teacher organizations, principals and health services personnel in the school district.

Policy Review

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

As part of that review, the school district will review the nutrition and physical activity policies and practices and the provision of an environment that supports healthy eating and physical activity. The school district, and individual schools within the school district will, revise the wellness policies and develop work plans to facilitate their implementation.

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.

 

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code ch. 68B; §§ 722.1, .2.

 

Cross Reference:

704.4 Gifts - Grants – Bequests

 

Approved 2-18-03                                Reviewed 4-21-08     3-25-14  1-28-19        Revised

508.2 Open Night

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

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 279.8.

 

Cross Reference:

900 Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

 

 

Approved 5-19-03                      Reviewed 4-21-08     3-25-14  1-28-19      Revised