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.

Cross Reference:

102 School District Instructional Organizations
501 Student Attendance

Approved  2-18-03      Reviewed  3-24-26       Revised 

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

Resident students whose families move from the school district after the start of a semester and who wish to complete the semester in  their former resident school district will be permitted to attend.  Students who plan to open enroll to their former resident district for the next school year may do so without approval of the board. 

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

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

Approved  2-18-03                           Reviewed      1-28-19                  Revised     3-24-26

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

• have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or have obtained a high school equivalency diploma;

• are excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or judge;

• are attending religious services or receiving qualifying religious instruction in accordance with relevant laws;

• are unable to attend school due to legitimate medical reasons;

• has an individualized education program that affects the child’s attendance;

• has a plan under Section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act, 29 U.S.C. §794, that affects the child’s attendance;

• are attending an approved or probationally approved private college preparatory school;

• are attending an accredited nonpublic school; 

• are receiving independent private instruction;

• are receiving competent private instruction;

• are a military applicant undergoing military entrance processing;

• are engaged in military service;

• are traveling to attend a funeral; or

• are traveling to attend a wedding.

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. Evidence may be shown in written or verbal communications with the building level administration. Reasonable travel time will be afforded for engaging in the exceptions listed above.
 

Cross References

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

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

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

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.

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:

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

506 Student Records

604.1 Competent Private Instruction

Approved 2-18-03                         Reviewed 3-24-26     Revised  1-28-19

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.

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

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

Truant/truancy means a student who is absent from school for any reason for at least twenty percent of the days in the semester.

Chronic absenteeism and truancy do not apply to the following students who:

• have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or has obtained a high school equivalency diploma
• are excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or judge;
• are attending religious services or receiving qualifying religious instruction in accordance with relevant laws;
• are unable to attend school due to legitimate medical reasons;
• have an individualized education program than affects the student's attendance;
• have a plan under section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act, 29 U.S.C. §794, that affects the child's attendance;
• are attending a private college preparatory school accredited or probationally accredited;
• are excused under Iowa Code §299.22;
• are exempt under Iowa Code §299.24;
• are a military applicant undergoing military entrance processing;
• are engaged in military service;
• are traveling to attend a funeral; or
• are traveling to attend a wedding.

Evidence may be shown in written or verbal communications with the building level administration. Reasonable travel time will be afforded for engaging in the exceptions listed above. Students may be 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..

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

Legal Reference:

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 3-24-26      Revised 11-25-2025

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

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

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

Legal Reference:

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

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

503 Student Discipline

504 Student Activities

506 Student Records

Approved 2-18-03            Reviewed     3-24-26            Revised

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.

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:

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

506 Student Records

Approved 2-18-03             Reviewed       3-24-26       Revised    1-28-19

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An open enrollment request into the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The determining factors for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the school district is appropriate for the student's needs and whether the enrollment of the special education student will cause the class size to exceed the maximum allowed.  The area education agency director of special education serving the school district will determine whether the program is appropriate.  The special education student will remain in the sending district until the final determination is made. For children requiring special education, the receiving district will complete and provide to the resident district the documentation needed to seek Medicaid reimbursement for eligible services.

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

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

Cross References

Approved 2-18-03     Reviewed     1-28-19          Revised  3-24-26

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

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

• Children and youth who are: 

  • Sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason (sometimes referred to as “doubled up”); 

  • Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations; 

  • Living in emergency or transitional shelters; or

  • Abandoned in hospitals. 

• Children and youth who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings; 

• Children and youth who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings; and 

• Migratory children who qualify as homeless because they are living in circumstances described above. 

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

• Designate a local homeless children and youth liaison; 

• Provide training opportunities for staff so staff may help identify and meet the needs of homeless children and youth; 

• Remove barriers, including those associated with fees, fines, and absences, to the identification, enrollment, retention, attendance and/or success in school for homeless children and youth; 

• Ensure collaboration and coordination with other service providers; 

• Ensure transportation is provided in accordance with legal requirements; 

• Provide school stability in school assignment according to the child’s best interests; 

• Ensure the privacy of student records, as provided by applicable law, including information about a homeless child or youth’s living situation; 

• Engage in the dispute resolution process for decisions relating to the educational placement of homeless children and youth as provided by applicable law; and 

• Prohibit the segregation of a homeless child or youth from other students enrolled in the district. 

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

Cross References

Approved 2-18-03         Reviewed     1-28-19      Revised  3-24-26

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:

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

Cross Reference:

500 Objectives for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved 2-18-03                          Reviewed       3-24-26                                 Revised

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

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

Legal Reference:

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

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

802.1 Maintenance Schedule

Approved 2-18-03                                   Reviewed     3-24-26                  Revised

Student Expression

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

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

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

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

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

Student Publications

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

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

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

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

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

Cross References

Approved 2-18-03                           Reviewed   1-28-19             Revised   3-24-26

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    3-24-26               Revised

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

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.14; Ch. 808A.

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved 2-18-03                               Reviewed    3-24-26             Revised

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

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

Parents of students found to possess weapons, dangerous objects, or look-a-likes on school property are notified of the incident. Possession or confiscation of weapons 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:

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

507 Student Health and Well-Being

Approved 2-18-03                             Reviewed     3-24-26              Revised

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.
 

Approved 2-18-03; 03/21/2024            Reviewed   3-24-26       Revised  03/21/2024

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

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

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

Legal Reference:

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

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

Approved 2-18-03                              Reviewed    3-24-26            Revised

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

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

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code 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    3-24-26                 Revised

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

Students who drive to and park at their school attendance center shall only drive to and park at their designated attendance center or at either their attendance center or 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 3-24-26               Revised 10-27-14

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

This policy is not intended to address the use of therapeutic classrooms or seclusion rooms for students.

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

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

Cross References

Approved 2-16-04; 2-15-21    Reviewed 1-28-19      Revised  3-24-26

Only the board may remove a student from the school environment for more than ten (10) consecutive school days.  

Students may be expelled for violations of board policy, school 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.

Approved 4-19-04                 Reviewed    1-28-19                Revised  3-24-26

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            3-24-26                        Revised

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

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

Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures, 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:

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

504 Student Activities

Approved 2-16-04                            Reviewed      3-24-26             Revised  1-28-19

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).
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    3-24-26             Revised  01-18-21

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. 

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   3-24-26                                         Revised                   

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

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

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

Legal Reference:    §279.78

Cross Reference:

Approved 8-21-23       Reviewed   3-24-26                  Revised    

Introduction
The 2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604), signed by Governor Reynolds on May 26, 2023, requires the Iowa Department of Education to develop and distribute a model policy for school districts and charter schools that, if adopted, satisfies a school district's or charter school’s responsibilities under Iowa Code 279.79A established by the Act. These model policies are intended to support a school district and charter school in meeting the requirements of new Iowa Code section 279.79A and in developing policies for different grade levels that describe how a school district or charter school may discipline a student for making a threat of violence or causing an incident of violence that results in injury or property damage or assault.

Districts are required to:

• Publish the district policy on the district website (2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604), sec. 7, new section 279.79A).
• Provide each parent or guardian with a copy of the policy and require the parent or guardian acknowledge receipt of the policy in writing or electronically (2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604), sec. 8).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Assault
Assault means when, without justification, a student does any of the following: an act which is intended to cause pain or injury to, or which is intended to result in physical contact which will be insulting or offensive to another, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or
any act which is intended to place another in fear of immediate physical contact which will be painful, injurious, insulting or offensive, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or intentionally points any firearm toward another or displays in a threatening manner any dangerous weapon toward another.

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

Escalating Responses by Grade Band
Grades PK-2

Level 1 Escalating Response

• Requires parent or guardian notification.
• Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.
• Responses may include any of the following:
  • Parent or guardian conference that includes the student, when appropriate;
  • When appropriate and with written parent consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;
  • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);
  • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);
  • Detention; and/or
  • Temporary removal from class.
• Unless the first offense is unusually serious, the administrator will avoid permanent removal from a class.

Level 2 Escalating Response

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

Level 3 Escalating Response

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

Grades 3-5

Level 1 Escalating Response

• Requires parent or guardian notification.
• Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.
• Responses to an incident may include the following:
  • Parent or guardian conference that may include the student, when appropriate;
  • When appropriate and with written parent consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;
  • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);
  • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);
  • Detention; and/or
  • Temporary removal from class.
• Unless the first offense is unusually serious, the administrator will avoid permanent removal from a class.

Level 2 Escalating Response

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

Level 3 Escalating Response

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

Grades 6-8

Level 1 Escalating Response

• Requires parent or guardian notification.
• Requires individualized educational program (IEP) meeting, if the student has an IEP.
• Responses to an incident may include the following:
  • Parent or guardian conference that may include the student, when appropriate;
  • When appropriate and with written parent consent, counseling, and/or mental health counseling subject to available resources of the district;
  • Behavior intervention student agreement coupled with another response(s);
  • Restitution or opportunities to repair relationships coupled with another response(s);
  • Detention; and/or
  • Temporary removal from class.

Level 2 Escalating Response

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

Level 3 Escalating Response

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

Grades 9-12

Level 1 Escalating Response

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

Level 2 Escalating Response

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

Level 3 Escalating Response

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

Definitions
The following definitions are consistent with the Student Reporting in Iowa Data Dictionary.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 
Approved 3/21/2024        Reviewed                  Revised    3-24-26

In order to promote the best educational experience, students should feel connected to their educational environment and to others in the school community. Building meaningful connections can occur in a variety of ways. Technology has advanced peoples' ability to connect with one another across a variety of virtual platforms, and when used appropriately, adds value to the learning environment. However, it is vital to the developmental health and growth of students that the district provides opportunities for students to connect with peers and other members of their school community in-person whenever possible. In-person learning and interactions teach vital life and social skills that students will need for their continued success in the community.

For this reason, student use of personal electronic devices during instructional time is prohibited. Students have access to district-owned electronic devices as appropriate for the instructional needs of the learning environment and authorized by the classroom teacher. Parents or guardians who need to communicate with students during instructional time may contact the school building administrative office.

Instructional time is defined to any time during which a student is under the guidance and supervision of licensed instructional staff or instructional assistants, including independent study time during the school day.

Personal electronic devices means any device that is capable of electronically communicating, sending, receiving, storing, recording, reproducing and/or displaying information and data. This may include but is not limited to electronic communication equipment, mobile phones, smart phones, video game devices and portable media players. Students may wear smart or electronic watches but may not use any communication applications or features that are prohibited from use on other electronic devices and all notifications must be turned off. Personal electronic devices that have been specifically authorized under a current individual education plan (IEP), a Section 504 plan, or an Individual Health Plan (IHP) are exempt from this policy.

Parents or guardians of students may request to building level administration that a student retain access to the student's personal electronic device during instructional time if the parent or guardian can establish there is a legitimate reason related to the student's mental or physical health for the student to retain access during instructional time. This reason must be tied to the student's multi-tiered system of support framework. Any denials may be appealed to the Superintendent, who will be the final decisionmaker on the request.

Students who choose to use personal electronic devices outside instructional time but while on school property, at school-sponsored events, or in a manner that may impact the educational environment must use these devices in accordance with all applicable laws and board policies. Students who violate this policy may face disciplinary consequences up to and including suspension or expulsion. The Superintendent, in conjunction with building level administration, will develop administrative regulations in accordance with this policy.

Legal References:
16 C.F.R. 312
34 C.F.R. pt. 99
47 C.F.R. 54.520
Iowa Code 279.8

Approved 03-24-26        Reviewed            Revised
 

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

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 279.8.

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

504 Student Activities

Approved 2-18-03       Reviewed 3-24-26            Revised

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

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

Curriculum-Related Organizations

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

• Is the subject matter of the group actually taught in a regularly offered course?
• Will the subject matter of the group soon be taught in a regularly offered course?
• Does the subject matter of the group concern the body of courses as a whole?
• Is participation in the group required for a particular course?
• Does participation in the group result in academic credit?

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

Noncurriculum-Related Organizations

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:

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

I.C. Iowa Code

Description

Iowa Code  § 287

Societies and Fraternities

Iowa Code  § 297.9

Schoolhouses/Sites - Use Other than Schools Purposes

U.S.C. - United States Code

Description

20 U.S.C. §§ 4071-4074

Education - Equal Access

U.S. Supreme Court

Description

496 U.S. 226

Westside Community BOE v Mergens (1990)

Case Law

Description

Bender v. Williamsport Area CSD

741 F.2d 538 (3d Cir. 1984) vacated and remanded on other grounds, 475 U.S. 534 (1986).

Westside Bd. of Education v. Mergens

496 U.S. 226 (1990)

Approved   3-24-26            Reviewed                 Revised

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

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

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

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

• Performances by student groups below the high school level should be allowed on a very limited basis;
• All groups of students should have an opportunity to participate; and
• Extensive travel by one group of students should be discouraged.

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

Legal Reference:

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

I.C. Iowa Code

Description

Iowa Code  § 280

Uniform School Requirements

I.A.C. Iowa Administrative Code

Description

281 I.A.C. 12.6

General Accreditation Standards - Activity Program

U.S. Supreme Court

Description

484 U.S. 260

Hazelwood School District v Kuhlmeier (1988)

Case Law

Description

Hazelwood School Dist v. Kuhlmeier

484 U.S. 260 (1988)

Cross References

Code

Description

503.04

Good Conduct Rule

Approved     3-24-26               Reviewed                    Revised

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  3-24-26                     Revised 2-16-09

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

The district shall adhere to the following: 

• Retention/Promotion in kindergarten – eighth grade: The retention of a student will be determined based upon the judgment of the district’s professional staff. When it becomes evident a student in grades kindergarten through eight may be retained in a grade level for an additional year, the parents will be informed prior to making the retention decision.  It is within the sole discretion of the district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
   

• Retention/Promotion in ninth – twelfth grade: Students in grades nine through twelve will be informed of the required coursework necessary to be promoted each year. When it becomes evident a student in these grades will be unable to meet the minimum credit requirements for the year, the student and parents will be informed. It is within the sole discretion of the district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
   

• Acceleration in kindergarten – twelfth grade: Students in grades kindergarten through twelve with exceptional talents may, with the permission of the principal and parents, take classes beyond their current grade level. Enrichment opportunities outside the school district may be allowed when they do not conflict with the school district's graduation requirements.
   

• Retention or Acceleration in kindergarten – twelfth grade may also occur in additional instances as provided by law. 

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

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

Cross References

Approved 11-17-03                             Reviewed 1-28-19        Revised 3-24-26

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 3-24-26        Revised

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

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

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

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

    ∙    sex behavior or attitudes;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:    

20 U.S.C. § 1232h 
Iowa Code §§ 279.79; 280.3

Cross Reference:    505    Student Scholastic Achievement

    506    Student Records

    607.2    Student Health Services

Approved       8-21-23                   Reviewed    3-24-26                   Revised                   

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

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(5); .5

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved 5-19-03                                 Reviewed 3-24-26             Revised

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

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

Legal Reference:

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

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved 11-15-04                              Reviewed 3-24-26       Revised

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 3-24-26         Revised

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, .610 et seq. 
Iowa Code §§ 22; 279.9B, 280.24, .25, 622.10. 
281 I.A.C. 12.3(4); 41 

Cross Reference:

501 Student Attendance

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

506 Student Records

507 Student Health and Well-Being

603.3 Special Education

708 Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records

901 Public Examination of School District Records

Approved                                    Reviewed         3-24-26       Revised 1-28-19

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       3-24-26           Revised 7-17-12

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 3-24-26          Revised

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 3-24-26           Revised

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:

Cross Reference:

402.2 Child Abuse Reporting

501 Student Attendance

507 Student Health and Well-Being

Approved 2-18-03                           Reviewed 3-24-26         Revised

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. 

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. 
 481 IAC 620. 
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 3-24-26         Revised 8-21-23

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 at 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  3-24-26         Revised 2-16-09

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  3-24-26           Revised 2-16-09

Students will be informed of the appropriate action to take in an emergency.  Emergency drills for fire, weather, and other disasters are conducted each school year. At least four fire drills and four tornado drills must be conducted each school year. Two drills of each type must be conducted between July 1 and December 31 and two drills of each type must be conducted between January 1 and June 30.

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.
 

Cross References

Approved 2-18-03                          Reviewed 3-24-26               Revised   3-24-26

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 3-24-26     Revised

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  3-24-26              Revised

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:

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

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

506 Student Records

603.3 Special Education

Approved 2-18-03                               Reviewed 3-24-26         Revised

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

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

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

• Nutrition Education and Promotion: Schools will provide nutrition education and engage in nutrition promotion that helps students develop lifelong healthy eating behaviors.

• Physical Activity: Schools will provide students with age and grade appropriate opportunities to engage in physical activity that meet the Iowa Healthy Kids Act.

• Other School Based Activities that Promote Wellness: As appropriate, schools will support students, staff, and parents’ efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  

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

• Meals served through the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program will be appealing and meet, at a minimum, nutrition requirements established by state and federal law;

• Schools providing access to healthy foods outside the reimbursable meal programs before school, during school and thirty minutes after school shall meet the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) Smart Snacks in Schools nutrition standards, at a minimum.  This includes such items as those sold through a la carte lines, vending machines, student run stores, and fundraising activities; 

• Snacks provided to students during the school day without charge (e.g., class parties) will meet standards set by the district in accordance law. The district will provide parents a list of foods and beverages that meet nutrition standards for classroom snacks and celebrations; and

• Schools will only allow marketing and advertising of foods and beverages that meet the Smart Snacks in school nutritional standards on campus during the school day. 

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

• Reviewing the policy at least every three years and recommending updates as appropriate for board approval;

• Implementing a process for permitting parents, students, representatives of the school food authority, teachers of physical education, school health professionals, the school board, administrators and the public to participate in the development, implementation, and periodic review and update of the policy; 

• Making the policy and updated assessment of the implementation available to the public (e.g., posting on the website, newsletters, etc). This information shall include the extent to which the schools are in compliance with policy and a description of the progress being made in attaining the goals of the policy; and

• Developing administrative regulations, which shall include specific wellness goals and indicators for measurement of progress consistent with law and district policy.   

Cross References

Approved          Reviewed      11-20-23       Revised  3-24-26

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 3-24-26           Revised

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 3-24-26          Revised