Children who are residents of the school district community will attend the school district without paying tuition.

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

Each case involving the bona fide residence of a student will be decided upon its individual merits by the superintendent.

Legal Reference:   
Lakota Cons. Ind. School v. Buffalo Center-Rake Comm. School, 334 N.W.2d 704 (Iowa 1983).
Mt. Hope School Dist. v. Hendrickson, 197 N.W. 47 (Iowa 1924).
Oshel v. Creston Comm. School Dist., DPI Admin. Doc. 570 (1981).
33 D.P.I. Dec. Rule 80 (1984).
Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4.

Cross Reference:   
100    Legal Status of the School District
501    Student Attendance

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised      

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

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

NOTE:  This policy reflects current Iowa law.  Iowa's open enrollment law has not eliminated the need for this policy.  This policy affects nonresident students who do not qualify for open enrollment.

Legal Reference:   Lakota Cons. Ind. School v. Buffalo Center-Rake Comm. School, 334 N.W.2d 704 (Iowa 1983).

                            Mt. Hope School Dist. v. Hendrickson, 197 N.W. 47 (Iowa 1924).

                            Oshel v. Creston Comm. School Dist., DPI Admin. Doc. 570 (1981).

                            Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.1, .2, .6, .7, .11, .24.

Cross Reference:   501    Student Attendance

Approved     June 20, 2022                     Reviewed                     Revised: September 18, 2023                   

Children in the school district community will be allowed to enroll in the school district's regular education program beginning at age five.  The child must be age five on or prior to September 15 to participate in the school district's kindergarten program.  The child must be age six on or prior to September 15 to begin the first grade of the education program.

Before the student may enroll in the district's education program the board will require evidence of age and residency in the form of a birth certificate or other evidence of age.  It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine what is satisfactory evidence for proof of age.

Prior to enrollment, the child must provide the administration with their health and immunization certificate.  Failure to provide this information within the time period set by Iowa law is reason for suspension, expulsion or denying admission to the student.

NOTE:  This policy reflects current Iowa law.  Only the state registrar has authority to make a copy of a birth certificate.  Districts who utilize online registration platforms should be aware that birth certificates should not be uploaded on the online platform as proof of age, as that creates a copy of the birth certificate.  Districts can either view a birth certificate in person then return it to the child’s guardian; or utilize a variety of documents including but not limited to a certified statement from a treating medical provider, or an immunization record from the child’s treating provider that lists the child’s date of birth as sufficient proof of age.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 144.45(5); 282.1, .3, .6.
    

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

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

Note: The requirement for the school principals to honor valid placement requests in paragraph two is a new legal requirement effective July 1, 2019.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 279.11; 282.7-.8.

Cross Reference:   
501    Student Attendance

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

The school district will request the student's cumulative records from the previous school district.  If the student cannot offer proof of grade level, the superintendent will make the grade level determination.  The superintendent may require testing or other information to determine the grade level.  Students expelled or suspended from their previous school district will only be enrolled after approval of the board.

The superintendent will determine the amount of credits to be transferred.  If the student has not previously attended an accredited school, it is within the superintendent's discretion to accept or reject credits or grades.

The board may deny admission if the student is not willing to provide the board with the necessary information.

NOTE:  School districts do not need parental permission to request student records from previous school districts.  The school district sending the records must notify the parents that the student's records have been sent.

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

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

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

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

NOTE:  The third paragraph is a reflection of federal law regarding the forwarding of student records.

Legal Reference:   
20 U.S.C. § 1232g.
Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 299.1-.1A; 299A.11

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

It is the responsibility of the principals to ensure that such reports are filed with the board secretary, the custodian of school records.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

Cross Reference:   
501    Student Attendance
506    Student Records

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

STUDENT ATTENDANCE  

Students are expected to be in class and to make attendance a top priority.  Only through attendance and class participation do students achieve the benefits of the education program.  Participating in class discussions, developing an appreciation for the views and abilities of other students, and forming the habit of regular attendance are legitimate class objectives.  Learning lost due to an absence is difficult to replace.  Regular attendance and preparation for class help students in school as well as prepare them for adulthood.

Parents/guardians who know their child will be absent must notify the office before the absence.  If advance notification is not possible, parents must notify their child's administrative office on the day of the absence prior to 9:00 a.m.  If notification is not received, the office will attempt to contact the parents at their emergency number. The following policies are taken from the passed and enacted Senate File 2435 Division VII: Chronic Absenteeism.

Definitions:

• Truant - as a child for whom exceptions don’t apply who has been absent from school, for any reason, for at least 20% of days or hours in the grading period.
• Chronically Absent - a child for whom exceptions don’t apply who has been absent from school, for any reason, for 10% of days or hours in a grading period established by the school.
• School Engagement Meeting: if a student is absent 15% or more of days/hours in the grading period, requires the school official to attempt to find the cause for the absences and initiate and participate in a school engagement meeting, the purpose of which is to identify barriers to attendance and determine appropriate interventions. Requires the child, the child’s parent/guardian, and a school official to participate in the meeting. Requires creation of the absenteeism prevention plan during this meeting, requires all to sign it, and get a copy. The plan must identify the causes and any future responsibilities for each participant. Requires the school official to monitor compliance, and requires the school official to contact the participants at least once each week during the remainder of the school calendar. Allows the participants to initiate referrals to any series or counseling believed to be appropriate under the child’s circumstances. Requires the county attorney to initiate a proceeding (public offense and/or CINA) if participants fail to enter into an absenteeism prevention plan, violate a term of the plan, or fail to participate in the school engagement meeting.

Exceptions:

• requires the policies not apply to students who have completed graduation requirements or attained a G.E.D
• who are excused for sufficient reason by any court or record or judge
•  for absences while attending religious services or receiving religious instruction
•  who are unable to attend school due to a legitimate medical reason (Legitimate medical reasons are determined by health care professionals and require a note.)
• who has an IEP or 504 plan that affects attendance.

Absences and Being Dropped From a Class

Student attendance is important to ensure the academic success of students. As a result, Creston Community Schools believes in the support of students who miss school and offers ways to support their academic goals. As such, the oversight of attendance includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Period Attendance

All courses run on period attendance. Each period is monitored for the duration of the semester. Period attendance resets at the beginning of each semester. A day consists of eight (8) periods.  Each period that a student misses is counted as an absence for that period. Attendance for each period is figured separately.  If a student falls below 90% attendance in a period, a problem-solving meeting will be scheduled with the principal to determine a plan of action. If the student is unwilling to meet with the Interventionist and/or makeup time, they can be dropped from the class. Students must make attendance for all periods a priority.

Extracurricular Participation and Attendance 

Students participating in extracurricular competitions must remain above 85% attendance in order to participate. Students will remain ineligible for participation until their attendance rises above the 85% threshold. The 85% attendance policy will come into effect at the first 4 ½ week grade check.

Students participating in extracurricular activity practices or competitions cannot miss more than 3 periods of the school day. If a student is absent in the afternoon, it must be for an appointment with a doctor’s note provided to verify the appointment, and/or must be pre-approved by the principal.  If a student leaves school due to illness during the day at any time, they will not be permitted to participate in afterschool activities. The time not spent in school must be considered an excused absence to allow students to participate in activities that day. Only in extraordinary circumstances may the principal waive these rules.  The principal has the sole discretion in determining whether an absence will be excused or not.

Attendance Due Process

Students have a right to appeal any decision concerning a student being dropped from a class. The appeal shall be made within five school days of the initial parent conference. At all times, during the appeal process, the student shall remain in class until the appeal is heard. After the appeal, the decision shall be considered final.

Students will be allowed to leave the school district facilities during school hours only with prior authorization from their parents, unless the parent calls or 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 and other reasons determined appropriate by the principal.

Students in grades  9 to 12 may be allowed to leave the school district facilities when they are not scheduled to be in class.  Students who violate school rules may have this privilege suspended.

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

NOTE:  This option should be used by school districts with closed campuses.

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 June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        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.

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

Legal Reference:   
20 U.S.C. § 1232g
Iowa Code §§ 22; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4; 599.1; 622.10.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

Cross Reference:   
501    Student Attendance
506    Student Records

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

• Children and youth who are:
  • Sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason (sometimes referred to as “doubled up”);
  • Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations;
  • Living in emergency or transitional shelters; or
• Abandoned in hospitals.
• Children and youth who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings;
• Children and youth who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings; and
• Migratory children who qualify as homeless because they are living in circumstances described above.

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

• Designate the District Designated Social Worker as the local homeless children and youth liaison;
• Provide training opportunities for staff so staff may help identify and meet the needs of homeless children and youth;
• Remove barriers, including those associated with fees, fines, and absences, to the identification, enrollment, retention, attendance and/or success in school for homeless children and youth;
• Ensure collaboration and coordination with other service providers;
• Ensure transportation is provided in accordance with legal requirements;
• Provide school stability in school assignment according to the child’s best interests;
• Ensure the privacy of student records, as provided by applicable law, including information about a homeless child or youth’s living situation;
• Engage in the dispute resolution process for decisions relating to the educational placement of homeless children and youth as provided by applicable law; and
• Prohibit the segregation of a homeless child or youth from other students enrolled in the district.

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

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.

NOTE: The United States Department of Education and the Iowa Department of Education have additional information about implementation of the policy. For additional information, please visit:

• The “Education Department Releases Guidance on Homeless Children and Youth” section of the United States Department of Education’s website, located at: http://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/education-department-releases-gui….

The “Homeless Education” section of the Iowa Department of Education’s website, located at: https://www.educateiowa.gov/pk-12/title-programs/title-x-part-c-homeles…

Legal Reference:   
20 U.S.C. § 6301.
42 U.S.C. § 11302.
42 U.S.C. §§ 11431 et seq.     
281 I.A.C. 33.

Cross Reference:   
501    Student Attendance
503.3    Fines - Fees - Charges
506    Student Records
507.1    Student Health and Immunization Certificates
603.3    Special Education
711.1    Student School Transportation Eligibility

Approved June 20, 2022     Reviewed                   Revised                  

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

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

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

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

NOTE:  This policy reflects the current status of the law regarding student appearance.  For more detailed discussion of this issue, see IASB's Policy Primer, May 31, 1994.

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:   
502    Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.4, .5; 613.16.

Cross Reference:   
502    Student Rights and Responsibilities
802.1    Maintenance Schedule

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        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.

NOTE:  This policy represents the current status of students' first amendment rights.    This is a mandatory policy and accompanying regulation required by Iowa Code ch. 279.73.  Schools are urged to handle all protests through a strictly viewpoint neutral lens.  Districts should consider the need to balance opposing views.  If one social issue is permitted, other opposing viewpoints should also be permitted.

Legal Reference:   
    U.S. Const. amend. I.
    Iowa Const. art. I (sec. 7)
    Morse v. Frederick, 551 U.S. 393 (2007)
    Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
    Bethel School District v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
    New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).
    Tinker v. Des Moines Ind. Comm. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969).
    Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
    Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .73; 280.22

Cross Reference:   
    102    Equal Educational Opportunity
    502    Student Rights and Responsibilities
    504    Student Activities
    603.9    Academic Freedom
    903.5    Distribution of Materials

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

Creating an environment where students feel comfortable addressing their concerns in a meaningful manner is vital to the learning process.  It is the goal of the board to resolve student complaints at the lowest organizational level.  Student complaints and grievances regarding board policy or administrative regulations, or other matters should first be addressed to the student's teacher or another licensed employee, other than the administration, for resolution of the complaint.  

If the complaint cannot be resolved by a student’s teacher or other licensed employee, the student may discuss the matter with the principal within 5 days of the employee's decision.  If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within 10 days after speaking with the principal.

If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved by the superintendent, the student may ask to have the matter placed on the board agenda of a regularly scheduled board meeting in compliance with board policy.  The board retains discretion as to whether to consider or take action on any complaint.

NOTE:  There should be reasonable limits on the number of days a student has to pursue a complaint.  Cross reference with the number of days listed in policy 401.4 for consistency.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:   
210.8    Board Meeting Agenda
213    Public Participation in Board Meetings
502    Student Rights and Responsibilities
504.3    Student Publications

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

NOTE:  Iowa law requires students or another individual to be present during the inspection of lockers.  For locker searches, see Policy 502.8, Search and Seizure.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.14; 808A.

Cross Reference:   
502    Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

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

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

Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials or other individuals specifically authorized by the board are exempt from this policy. Students and individuals approved in writing by the Superintendent who are actively engaging in a school district approved firearms safety course, hunter education course or shooting sports activity are exempt from this policy. The superintendent will develop an administrative process or procedures to implement the policy and communicate with law enforcement relevant exemptions to this policy as appropriate.

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.

NOTE: The board may specifically authorize individuals to be armed with, carry, or transport a firearm on school grounds under limited circumstances outlined in law. Reasons for this authorization may include, conducting instructional programs regarding firearms or for conducting an Iowa Department of Natural Resources approved hunter education course or shooting sports activities course on school property.

Legal Reference:  18 U.S.C. § 921  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 483A.27(11), 724  281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

Cross Reference:

502                              Student Rights and Responsibilities

503                              Student Discipline

507                              Student Health and Well-Being

The board believes it is imperative to promote the health and wellbeing 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 wellbeing;

∙ 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;

STUDENT SUBSTANCE USE

∙ A requirement that parents and students be given a copy of the standards of conduct and the statement of disciplinary sanctions required; and,

∙ Notification to parents and students that compliance with the standards of conduct is mandatory.

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

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

Approved June 20, 2022      Reviewed                       Revised March 18, 2024

Legal Reference: 34 C.F.R. Pt. 86

Iowa Code §§ 123.46; 124; 279.8, .9; 453A.

281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); .5(3)(e), .5(4)(e), .5(5)(e)

Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

507 Student Health and Well-Being

School district property is held in public trust by the board.  School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search students or protected student areas based on a reasonable and articulable suspicion that a school district policy, rule, regulation or law has been violated.  The search is in a manner reasonable in scope to maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students, employees and visitors to the school district facilities.  The furnishing of a locker, desk or other facility or space owned by the school and provided as a courtesy to a student, even if the student provides the lock for it, will not create a protected student area and will not give rise to an expectation of privacy with respect to the locker, desk, or other facility.
 
School authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search.  Items of contraband may include, but are not limited to, nonprescription controlled substances, marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, apparatus used for controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco/nicotine, weapons, explosives, poisons and stolen property.  Such items are not to be possessed by a student while they are on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.  Possession of such items will be grounds for disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion and may be reported to local law enforcement officials.  The board believes that illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials may cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.

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

NOTE:  This policy reflects the law regarding school district authority for searching students, their possessions and their lockers.  Substantive changes were made to 502.8R1.

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

Cross Reference:   
502    Student Rights and Responsibilities
503    Student Discipline
905.2    Tobacco/Nicotine-Free Environment

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                   

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

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

If a child abuse investigator wishes to interview a student, the principal will defer to the investigator's judgment as to whether the student should be interviewed independently from the student's parents, whether the school is the most appropriate setting for the interview, and who will be present during the interview.

Students will not be taken from school without the consent of the principal and without proper warrant.

NOTE:  Iowa law does not address access to students by law enforcement authorities or other officials.  This policy reflects the generally accepted practice of school districts.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 232; 280.17.
281 I.A.C. 102.
441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.  

Cross Reference:   
402.2    Child Abuse Reporting
502.10    Search and Seizure
503    Student Discipline
902.2    News Conferences and Interviews

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                                Revised                    

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. Personal electronic devices means any device that is capable of electronically communicating, sending, receiving, storing, recording, reproducing and/or displaying information and data. Students may wear smart or electronic watches but may 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. For purposes of this policy, instructional time is defined as the time from the beginning of class bell through the end of class bell, and includes all lunch and recess periods.

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

Note: This policy and the language contained here is optional. The language should be adapted to suit the needs of individual districts. The definition of personal electronic devices includes cell phones, headphones and other Bluetooth devices. Smartwatches have been specifically exempted if the settings are appropriately configured. However, individual districts should decide whether to exempt smartwatches. Instructional time is defined to include lunch, recess, and passing periods in this policy. However, districts should adapt this language to suit the needs of their individual communities.

Legal References:

16 C.F.R. 312

34 C.F.R. pt. 99

47 C.F.R. 54.520

Iowa Code 279.8

I.C. Iowa Code References                       Description

Iowa Code § 279.8                                      Directors - General Rules - Bonds of Employees

C.F.R. - Code of Federal Regulations References  Description

16 C.F.R. 312                                              Children's Online Privacy Protection Rule

34 C.F.R. Pt. 99                                          Education - Family Rights and Privacy

47 C.F.R. 54.520                                         Communications - Children's Internet Protection Act

Cross References                                     Description

401.12                                                         Employee Use of Cell Phones

401.12-R(1)     Employee Use of Cell Phones - Regulation

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.  

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.

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy and outlines the school district's basic student conduct.  Details of how this policy will be implemented should be included in the student handbook.  

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

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

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

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

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

  N.W.2d 854 (1967).

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

281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

504 Student Activities

506.3 Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students

603.3 Special Education

903.5 Distribution of Materials

Approved June 20, 2022      Reviewed                    Revised       January 16, 2024

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.

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy and is a reflection of Iowa law regarding student expulsion.  It is consistent with the due process requirements of the 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution.  The last two paragraphs reflect federal special education law.

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

Wood v. Strickland, 420 U.S. 308 (1975).

Southeast Warren Comm. School District v. Dept. of Public Instruction, 285 

  N.W.2d 173 (Iowa 1979).

Iowa Code §§ 21.5; 282.3, .4, .5.

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

Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

Approved June 20, 2022          Reviewed          Revised  January 16, 2024

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.

NOTE:   This is a mandatory policy.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 256.7(20); 279.8; 280.10, .11; 282.6; 285.1; 301.1.
281 I.A.C. 18.2.   

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures.  The principal will keep records of violations of the good conduct rule.

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

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.  The detail outlining specific conduct expected and penalties for violation should be in the student handbook, and students involved in extracurricular activities must be notified of its contents.

Legal Reference:   
Bunger v. Iowa High School Athletic Assn., 197 N.W.2d 555 (Iowa 1972).
In re Jason Clark, 1 D.P.I. App. Dec. 167 (1978).
Iowa Code §§ 280.13, .13A.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 36.15(1).

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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.  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 student's control.
  •         --    For the purposes of self-defense or defense of others as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.3.
  •         --    For the protection of property as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.4 or 704.5.
  •         --    To remove a disruptive student 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 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 June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

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

Physical restraint or seclusion is reasonable or necessary only:
To prevent or terminate an imminent threat of bodily injury to the student or others; or
To prevent serious damage to property of significant monetary value or significant non monetary value or importance; or
When the student’s actions seriously disrupt the learning environment or when physical restraint or seclusion is necessary to ensure the safety of the student or others; and
When less restrictive alternatives to seclusion or physical restraint would not be effective, would not be feasible under the circumstances, or have failed in preventing or terminating the imminent threat or behavior; and
When the physical restraint or seclusion complies with all applicable laws.

Prior to using physical restraint or seclusion, employees must receive training in accordance with the law.  Any individual who is not employed by the district but whose duties could require the individual to use or be present during the use of physical restraint or seclusion on a student will be invited to participate in the same training offered to employees on this topic.  

When required by law, the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee will ensure a post-occurrence debriefing meeting is held, maintain documentation and fulfill all reporting requirements for each occurrence of physical restraint or seclusion as required by law.  

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

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21.
281 I.A.C. 103.   

Cross Reference:   
402.3    Abuse of Students by School District Employees
502    Student Rights and Responsibilities
503    Student Discipline
503.5    Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint and Prone Restraint

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

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

Legal Reference:             Iowa Code §

Cross Reference:            

Approved                                               Reviewed                                               Revised: September 18, 2023                   

Discipline is designed to promote behavior that will enable students to learn and successfully participate in their educational and social environments. The school district discipline policy for students who make a threat of violence or commit an act of violence is developed to help students understand their obligations to others in the school setting, secure the safety of all students, staff, and the community, and to correct student behavior if a violation occurs (2023 Iowa Acts, chapter 96 (House File 604), sec. 7, new section 279.79, subsection 1). 

Students will conduct themselves in a manner fitting their age, grade level, and maturity, and with respect and consideration for the rights of others while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school district owned and/or operated school district or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school district activities; and while away from school district grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district. 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 279.79, subsection 3).

Approved ______________ Reviewed                      Revised January 16, 2024

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 June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

Curriculum-Related Organizations

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

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

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

Noncurriculum-Related Organizations

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

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

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

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

NOTE:  This policy reflects the protection given nonschool-sponsored student groups in the federal Equal Access Act.  Option I should be used by school districts that have noncurricular, school-sponsored organizations.

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

Cross Reference:   
502    Student Rights and Responsibilities
504    Student Activities

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

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

A high school student who participates in school sponsored athletics may participate in a non-school sponsored sport during the same season if outside of the regular school year.

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

Note:  This is a mandatory policy.  Boards must have a policy addressing the issue of nonschool athletic participation.

Legal Reference:   
20 U.S.C. §§ 1681-1683; 1685-1686.
34 C.F.R. Pt. 106.41
Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 280.13-.14.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 12.6., 36.15(7).

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                    

Students will receive a progress report at the end of each grading period.  Students, who are doing poorly, and their parents, are notified prior to the end of the semester in order to have an opportunity to improve their grade.  The board encourages the notification of students who have made marked improvement prior to the end of the semester. Parent-teacher conferences will be held to keep parents informed.

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

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.  The second paragraph should be written to reflect the school district's practice.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .41; .280, 284.12.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), 12.3(6), .5(16).

Cross Reference:   
505    Student Scholastic Achievement
506    Student Records

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                   

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 June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure that students complete grades one through twelve and that high school students complete 55 credits for class of 2024, 56 credits class of 2025, 57 credits for class of 2026 prior to graduation.  The following credits will be required for graduation:

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

Beginning with the class of 2022, graduation requirements for special education students will include successful completion of four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies and three years of science.

Students who complete a regular session in the Legislative Page Program of the general assembly at the state capitol will be credited ½ credit of social studies.

Students enrolled in a junior officers’ training corp will receive 1/8th physical education credit for each semester the student is enrolled in the program.  

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 256.7, 11, .41; 279.8; 280.3, .14.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(5); 12.5

Cross Reference:   
505    Student Scholastic Achievement
603.3    Special Education

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised  September 18, 2023                

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.

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.  School districts do not have the authority to limit when a student may graduate early.  Students can graduate early whenever they meet the school district's graduation requirements.  It is recommended that when a student graduates early, the student either gets the diploma or a notice from the school district that the student has graduated.  The board should determine in policy how an early graduate will be treated after the student graduates.  The board should determine whether the early graduate will be allowed to participate in activities and, if so, which activities.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(5); 12(5)

Cross Reference:   
505    Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

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

Cross Reference:   
505    Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

Parent and family engagement is an important component in a student’s success in school.  The board encourages parents and families to become involved in their child’s education to ensure the child’s academic success.  In order to facilitate parent and family involvement, it is the goal of the district to conduct outreach and implement programs, activities and procedures to further involve parents and families with the academic success of their students.  The board will:

(1)    Involve parents and families in the development of the Title I plan, the process for school review of the plan and the process for improvement by:  Sharing data on eligibility and access;

(2)    Provide the coordination, technical assistance and other support necessary to assist and build the capacity of all participating schools in planning and implementing effective parent and family involvement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance by: Align resources to support students with their needs;

(3)    To the extent feasible, coordinate and integrate parent and family engagement strategies under Title I with parent and family engagement strategies outlined in other relevant Federal, State, and local laws and programs by: Communicate program and plan details to families ;

(4)    Conduct with the involvement of parents and family members, an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness of the parent and family engagement policy in improving the academic quality of the school served including identifying: barriers to greater participation by parents in Title I activities (with particular attention to low-income parents, Limited English Proficient (LEP) parents, parents of any racial or ethnic minority, parents with disabilities and parents with limited literacy); needs of parents and family to assist their children’s learning; and strategies to support successful school and family interactions by:  sharing information about standards ad assessments, training and material to help children, involving parents in their childs educational program;

(5)     Use the findings of the annual evaluation to design strategies for more effective parent and family involvement and to revise, as necessary, the parent and family involvement policies by: sharing progress feedback and communicating effective stratagies; and

(6)    Involve parents and families in Title I activities by: Keeping them informed of activities throughout the year.

The district shall involve parents in determining how to allocate reserved Title I funds in accordance with applicable laws.  

The board will review this policy annually.  The superintendent is responsible for notifying parents and families of this policy annually or within a reasonable time after it has been amended during the school year.  The superintendent may develop an administrative process or procedures to implement this policy.  

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy and accompanying regulation. The intent of this portion of Every Student Succeeds Act is that districts will uniquely tailor this policy in a manner and format that suits the needs of their individual community.  As a result, there are underlined spaces within this policy that indicate areas where the district should add their own plans after having taken the steps to collaborate with parents and families.  This policy is not complete without the necessary description of how each district intends to implement the policy.  

Legal References:   
20 U.S.C. §6318

Cross References:   
903.2    Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

Approved June 20, 2022.           Reviewed     March 18, 2024              Revised                   

The board recognizes the importance of maintaining education records and preserving their confidentiality as provided by law.  Education records are kept confidential at collection, storage, disclosure and destruction stages.  The board secretary is the custodian of education records.  Education records may be maintained in the central administration office or administrative office of the student's attendance center.  

Definitions
For the purposes of this policy, the defined words have the following meaning:

• “Education Record” means those records that contain information directly related to a student and which are maintained by an education agency or institution or by a party acting for the agency or institution.
• “Eligible Student” means a student who has reached eighteen years or attends a postsecondary institution. Parents of an eligible student are provided access to education records only with the written permission of the eligible student unless the eligible student is defined as a dependent by the Internal Revenue Code. In that case, the parents may be provided access without the written permission of the student.  

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

Parents, eligible students, and other individuals authorized in accordance with law will have a right to access the student's education records upon request without unnecessary delay and in no instance more than forty-five calendar days after the request is made.  Parents, other than parents of an eligible student, may be denied access to a student's records if the school district has a court order stating such or when the district has been advised under the appropriate laws that the parents may not access the student records.  Parents, an eligible student or an authorized representative of the parents will have the right to access the student's education records prior to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting or hearing.

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

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

If the parents or an eligible student believes the information in the education records is inaccurate, misleading or violates the privacy of the student, the parents or an eligible student may request that the school district amend the education records.  

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

• To school 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 education records are being sent and the parents have an opportunity to receive a copy of the records and challenge the contents of the records unless the annual notification includes a provision that records will automatically be transferred to new school districts;
• To the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education or state and local educational authorities;
• In connection with a student’s application for, or receipt of, financial aid;
• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, educational agencies or institutions for the purpose of developing, validating, or administering predictive tests, administering student aid programs, and improving instruction, if such studies are conducted in such a manner as will not permit the personal identification of students and their parents by persons other than representatives of such organizations and such information will be destroyed when no longer needed for the purpose for which it was conducted;
• To accrediting organizations;
• To parents of a dependent student as defined in the Internal Revenue Code;
• To comply with a court order or judicially issued subpoena;
• In connection with a health or safety emergency;
• As directory information; or
• In additional instances as provided by law.

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

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

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

When personally identifiable information, other than permanent education records, is no longer needed to provide educational services to a special education student, the parents or eligible student 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, except for permanent records.  Prior to the destruction of the records, the school district must inform the parents or eligible student the records may be needed by the parents or eligible student for social security benefits or other purposes.  For purposes of policy, “no longer needed to provide educational services” means that a record is no longer relevant to the provision of instruction, support, or related services and it is no longer needed for accountability and audit purposes. At a minimum, a record needed for accountability and audit purposes must be retained for five years after completion of the activity for which funds were used.

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

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

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

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

Confidential information shared between the school district and the agencies will remain confidential and will not be shared with any other person, unless otherwise provided by law.  The school district may discontinue information sharing with an agency if the school district determines that the agency has violated the intent or letter of the agreement.

Agencies will contact the principal of the attendance center where the student is currently or was enrolled.  The principal will then forward copies of the records within a reasonable time following receipt of the request.

The school district will provide training or instruction to employees about parents' and eligible students' rights under this policy.  Employees will also be informed about the procedures for carrying out this policy.  
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to annually notify parents and eligible students that they have the right to:

1. Inspect and review the student's education records;
2. Seek amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights;
3. Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the law authorizes disclosure without consent; and
4. File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the law.

The notice is given in a parents' or eligible student's native language.  Should the school district collect personal information from students for the purposes of marketing or selling that information, the school district will annually notify parents of such activity.

The notice will include a statement that the parents have a right to file a complaint alleging the school district failed to comply with this policy.  Complaints are forwarded to Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, Washington, DC. 20202-8520.

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.

NOTE: For districts that include the option language regarding the interagency agreement, please ensure that the policy is included in the student handbook in accordance with law.

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 June 20, 2022
Reviewed                   
Revised                   

Directory information is information contained in the education records of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. The district may disclose "directory information" to third parties without consent if it has given public notice of the types of information which it has designated as "directory information," the parent's or eligible student's right to restrict the disclosure of such information, and the period of time within which a parent or eligible student has to notify the school in writing that he or she does not want any or all of those types of information designated as "directory information."  The district has designated the following as “directory information”:

• Student’s name
• Address
• Telephone listing
• Electronic mail address
• Photograph
• Date and place of birth
• Major field of study
• Dates of attendance
• Grade level
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• Weight and height of members of athletic teams
• Degrees, honors, and awards received
• The most recent educational agency or institution attended
• Student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems that cannot be used to access education records without a PIN, password, etc.  (A student’s SSN, in whole or in part, cannot be used for this purpose.)   

Student is defined as an enrolled individual, PK-12 including children in school district sponsored child-care programs.  

Prior to developing a student directory or to giving general information to the public, parents (including parents of students open enrolled out of the school district and parents of children home schooled in the school district) will be given notice annually of the intent to develop a directory or to give out general information and have the opportunity to deny the inclusion of their child's information in the directory or in the general information about the students.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to provide notice and to determine the method of notice that will inform parents.

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.  A school district may limit what it considers to be directory information.  If the school district limits the information, it must also make those changes in the school district's annual notice.  

Legal Reference:    
20 U.S.C. § 1232g.
34 C.F.R. Pt. 99.
Iowa Code § 22; 622.10.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(4); 41.
  
Cross Reference:   
504    Student Activities
506    Student Records
901    Public Examination of School District Records
902.4    Live Broadcast or videotaping

Approved June 20, 2022
Reviewed                   
Revised                   

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

Cross Reference:   
506    Student Records

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        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.

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy and a reflection of federal and Iowa law.  For more detailed discussion of this issue, see IASB's Policy Primer, Vol. 20 #1 – August 31, 2007.

Legal Reference:   
20 U.S.C. § 1232g
34 C.F.R. Pt. 99
Iowa Code §§ 22
281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), (12).
           
Cross Reference:   
506    Student Records

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        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.

NOTE:  Physical examinations are not required by law but are strongly recommended.  Immunizations and the certificate of immunization are legal requirements.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 280.13.
281 I.A.C. 33.5.
641 I.A.C. 7.

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                   

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.

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.

For more information on communicable disease charts, and reporting forms, go to the Iowa Department of Public Health Web site:  http://www.idph.state.ia.us/CADE/Default.aspx.

NOTE:  This policy is consistent with current health practices regarding communicable diseases.  The bloodborne pathogen language in the second paragraph and accompanying regulation is in compliance with federal law on control of bloodborne pathogens.

Legal Reference:   
School Board of Nassau County v. Arline, 480 U.S. 273 (1987).
29 U.S.C. §§ 701 et seq.
45 C.F.R. Pt. 84.3
Iowa Code ch. 139A.8
641 I.A.C. 1.2-.5, 7.

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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

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

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

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.

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

NOTE:  This policy outlines the recommended practice.

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code § 613.17

Cross Reference:   
507    Student Health and Well-Being

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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.  Fire and tornado drills are each conducted regularly during the academic school year with a minimum of two before December 31 and two after January 1.

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.

NOTE:  The last sentence of the first paragraph is a legal requirement.  

Legal Reference:   
Iowa Code § 100.31 

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        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 §§ 232.67, .70, .73, .75; 235A; 279.8; 710.6.
441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.

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

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        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 health plan.  

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 June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                   

The Creston Community School 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 with 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.  

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy.

NOTE: The Iowa Department of Education has tools and resources available to help districts with progress reports and other aspects of policy implementation and review. Please visit the “School Wellness Policy” section of the Iowa Department of Education’s website, located at: https://www.educateiowa.gov/pk-12/nutrition-programs/school-wellness.

NOTE: School districts are required by federal law to have at least one wellness goal in each of the goal areas identified in paragraph three of the sample policy. These goal areas include the following: nutrition promotion and education, physical activity, and other school-based activities that promote student wellness. School districts should select goals to include in the regulation (507.9R1) from the options provided in the sample regulation (507.9R1) or identify a district specific goal. Districts must remember the sample policy and sample regulation cannot be adopted in the current format. School boards and administration must make a choice for all text in italicized brackets.

Legal Reference:     
42 U.S.C. §§ 1751 et seq.
42 U.S.C. §§ 1771 et seq.  
Iowa Code §§ 256.7(29); 256.11(6).
281 I.A.C. 12.5; 58.11.

Cross Reference:   
504.5    Student Fund Raising
504.6    Student Activity Program
710     School Food Services

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised                  

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 §§ 68B; 722.1, .2.

Cross Reference:   
704.4    Gifts - Grants - Bequests

Approved June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        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 June 20, 2022    Reviewed                        Revised