502.6 - Weapons

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

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

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

 

 

Approved       June 20, 2022

Reviewed

Revised     October 21, 2024