300 Administration

300 Role of School District Administration

Role of School District Administration 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

Approved:  September 16, 1985

 

Reviewed:  March, 1998
March, 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

 

Revised:  February 17, 2003

301 Administrative Structure

ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE

 

It is the superintendent's responsibility to organize, reorganize and arrange the administrative and supervisory staff of the district in a fashion, which in his/her judgment, best serves the interests of the district based upon board approval.

 

The organizational structure of the district shall be illustrated by a chart.  The chart represents the direction of authority and responsibility.  The chart shall be regarded as visual representation of contracted authority and responsibility for each line and staff position.

 

Previously Code No. 310.3

 

 

Approved:  September 16, 1985           

 

Reviewed:  March 1998  
January 20, 2003
March, 2006
June 20, 2011 
July 11, 2016             

 

Revised

                                                                             

301.1 Management

MANAGEMENT

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

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

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

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

 

 

Previously Code No.  310.2

Adopted:  September 16, 1985

 

Reviewed:  March 1998
March, 2006 
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

 

Revised:  February 17, 2003

 

 

301.2 Organization Chart

See attachment.

Attachment: 

302 Superintendent of Schools

302.1 Superintendent Qualifications, Recuitment, Appointment

SUPERINTENDENT QUALIFICATIONS, RECRUITMENT, APPOINTMENT

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

Legal Reference:          29 U.S.C. §§ 621-634 (2010).
42 U.S.C. §§ 2000e et seq. (2010).
Iowa Code §§ 21.5(1)(i); 35C; 216; 279.8, .20 (2011).
281 I.A.C. 12.4(4).
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 367.

 

Cross Reference:         201.3   General Powers and Duties of the Board
301      Administrative Structure
302      Superintendent

 

 

Approved: September 16, 1985          

 

Reviewed:  March, 1998
March, 2006
June 20, 2011 
July 11, 2016                    

 

Revised:  February 17, 2003
July 16, 2007
January 22, 2013

 

 

302.2 Superintendent Contract and Contract Nonrenewal

SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT AND CONTRACT NONRENEWAL

The length of the contract for employment between the superintendent and the board is determined by the board.  The contract will begin on July 1 and end on June 30.  The contract will state the terms of employment.

The first two years of a contract issued to a newly employed superintendent is considered a probationary period.  The board may waive this period or the probationary period may be extended for an additional year upon the consent of the superintendent.  In the event of termination of a probationary or nonprobationary contract, the board will afford the superintendent appropriate due process, including notice by May 15.  The superintendent and board may mutually agree to terminate the superintendent's contract at any time.

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

It is the responsibility of the board to provide the contract for the superintendent.

If the superintendent wishes to resign, to be released from a contract, or to retire, the superintendent must comply with board policies dealing with retirement, release or resignation.

Legal Reference: Cook v Plainfield Community School District, 301 N.W.2d 771 (Iowa App. 1980).
Board of Education of Fort Madison Community School District v. Youel, 282 N.W.2d 677 (Iowa 1979).
Briggs v Board of Directors of Hinton Community School District, 282 N.W.2d 740 (Iowa 1979).
Luse v. Waco Community School District of Henry Co., 258 Iowa 1087, 141 N.W.2d 607 (1966).
Iowa Code §§ 21.5(1)(i); 279.20, .22-.25 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.4(4).

Cross Reference: 302 Superintendent

Previously Code No. 312.1

Approved:  January 12, 1987

 

Reviewed:  March 1998
March, 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

 

Revised: October 19, 1992
February 17, 2003

302.3 Superintendent Salary and Other Compensation

SUPERINTENDENT SALARY AND OTHER COMPENSATION

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

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

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

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20 (2001).
1984 Op. Att'y Gen. 47.

Cross Reference: 302 Superintendent

 

Approved:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006 
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

 

302.4 Superintendent Duties

SUPERINTENDENT DUTIES

The board employs a superintendent of schools to serve as the chief executive officer of the board.  The board delegates to the superintendent the authority to implement board policy and to execute decisions made by the board concerning the internal operations of the school district, unless specifically stated otherwise.

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20, 23A (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.4(4).

Cross Reference: 301 Administrative Structure
302 Superintendent

Previously Code No.  301.3

Approved:  September 16, 1985 

 

Reviewed:  March 1998
March 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

 

Revised:  February 17, 2003
                    

302.5 Superintendent Evaluation

SUPERINTENDENT EVALUATION

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

The formal evaluation will be based upon the following principles:

The evaluation criteria will be in writing, clearly stated and mutually agreed upon by the board and the superintendent.  The criteria will be related to the job description and the school district's goals;
At a minimum, the evaluation process will be conducted annually at a time agreed upon;
Each board member will have an opportunity to individually evaluate the superintendent, and these individual evaluations will be compiled into an overall evaluation by the entire board;
The superintendent will conduct a self-evaluation prior to discussing the board's evaluation, and the board as a whole will discuss its evaluation with the superintendent;
The board may discuss its evaluation of the superintendent in closed session upon a request from the superintendent and if the board determines its discussion in open session will needlessly and irreparably injure the superintendent's reputation; and,
The individual evaluation by each board member, if individual board members so desire, will not be reviewed by the superintendent.  Board members are encouraged to communicate their criticisms and concerns to the superintendent in the closed session.  The board president will develop a written summary of the individual evaluations, including both the strengths and the weaknesses of the superintendent, and place it in the superintendent's personnel file to be incorporated into the next cycle of evaluations.

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

 

Legal Reference: Wedergren v. Board of Directors, 307 N.W.2d 12 (Iowa 1981).
Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20, .23, .23A (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

Cross Reference: 204.4 Closed Sessions
302 Superintendent

Previously Code No.  301.4

 

Approved:  September 16, 1985

 

Reviewed:  March 1998
March, 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

 

Revised: December 11, 1995
February 17, 2003

302.6 Superintendent Professional Development

SUPERINTENDENT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

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

As the task of educating our youth must be a top priority of the communities served by the Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn Community School District, the board of directors recognizes the importance of keeping the administrative team informed on current educational issues, research and trends.  To this end each administrator shall develop a systematic plan for professional renewal activities that shall include but not be limited to attendance at:

*  Conference Meetings

* annual state conference of the Iowa Association of School Boards,

* attend other area, regional, state or national meetings related to education

To stay abreast of national trends and successful cutting-edge programs, the superintendent shall budget sufficient funds to provide for the participation of all administrators in the activities listed above.  In addition, funds shall be provided for two administrators to attend a national educational conference such as NASB, AASB, NASSP, NMLE, NAEP conference every other year.

Administrators are encouraged to represent the successes of the district at area, state and national conferences.  Administrators who are presenting a district program at a national conference shall be allowed to attend with full reimbursement.  If this occurs during a year the administrator is scheduled to attend a national conference, that conference shall count as his/her conference for the year.  Should it fall on a year that administrator is not scheduled to attend a national conference, the administrator shall be allowed to attend the conference without effecting the scheduled rotation.

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

The superintendent will report to the board after an event.

 

Previously Code No.  310.1

Approved:  May 10, 1993 

 

Reviewed:  March 1998
March 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

 

Revised:  February 17, 2003
                     

302.7 Superintendent Civic Activities

SUPERINTENDENT CIVIC ACTIVITIES

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

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

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (2001).
1990 Op. Att'y Gen. 79.

Cross Reference: 302.3 Superintendent Salary and Other Compensation

 

Approved:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006 
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

 

302.8 Superintendent Consulting/Outside Employment

SUPERINTENDENT CONSULTING/OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT

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

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

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20 (2001).

Cross Reference: 302.2 Superintendent Contract and Contract Nonrenewal
302.4 Superintendent Duties

Adopted:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

303 Administrative Employees

303.1 Administrative Positions

ADMINISTRATIVE POSITIONS

The school district will have, in addition to the superintendent, the following administrative positions:
Secondary Principal, Middle School Principal and Elementary Principal
with a coordinator for Curriculum & Development and Technology

These administrators and coordinators will work closely with the superintendent in the day-to-day operations of the school district.

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

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20, .21, .23-.24 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.4.

Cross Reference: 301 Administrative Structure
303 Administrative Employees

Adopted:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

303.2 Administrator Qualifications, Recruitement, Appointment

ADMINISTRATOR QUALIFICATIONS, RECRUITMENT, APPOINTMENT

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

 

Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .21 (2011).
281 I.A.C. 12.4.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 367.

 

Cross Reference:          303       Administrative Employees

 

 

Approved:  September 16, 1995             

 

Reviewed:  March, 1998 
March, 2006
June 20, 2011 
July 11, 2016                     

 

Revised:  February 16, 2003
July 16, 2007
January 22, 2013

 

 

303.3 Administrator Contract and Contract Nonrenewal

ADMINISTRATOR CONTRACT AND CONTRACT NONRENEWAL

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

The first two years of a contract issued to a newly employed administrator will be considered a probationary period.  The board may waive this period.  The probationary period may be extended for an additional year upon the consent of the administrator.  In the event of termination of a probationary or nonprobationary contract, the board will afford the administrator appropriate due process, including notice by May 15.  The administrator and board may mutually agree to terminate the administrator's contract.

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

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

Administrators who wish to resign, to be released from a contract, or to retire, must comply with board policies regarding the areas of resignation, release or retirement.

 

 

Legal Reference: Cook v Plainfield Community School District, 301 N.W.2d 771 (Iowa App. 1980).
Board of Education of Fort Madison Community School District v Youel, 282 N.W.2d 677 (Iowa 1979).
Briggs v Board of Education of Hinton Community School District, 282 N.W.2d 740 (Iowa 1979).
Iowa Code §§ 279.20, .22-.25 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.4(4), .4(7).

Cross Reference: 303 Administrative Employees

 

Adopted:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006 
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

303.4 Administrator Salary and Other Compensation

ADMINISTRATOR SALARY AND OTHER COMPENSATION

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

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

 

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.21 (2001).
1984 Op. Att'y Gen. 47.

Cross Reference: 303 Administrative Employees

 

Adopted:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

303.5 Administrator Duties

ADMINISTRATOR DUTIES

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

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

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

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

 

Adopted:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

303.5R1 Building Principals - Functions

BUILDING PRINCIPALS - FUNCTIONS

To Whom Responsible:   The Superintendent of Schools or Designee
Subject to the policies of the Board of Directors and to the directives issued by the Superintendent or other central administrative personnel on behalf of the Superintendent, the principal shall have full control of his/her building and grounds, all pupils, teachers, operating personnel and all activities carried on therein or theron.
The primary function of the building principal is to provide leadership that will develop a quality learning environment and program.
The Principal's Role in School Management
As key administrator of the building, the principal:
A. Knows and consistently adheres to the state legal code and local school district    policies.
B. Exercises full responsibility for the organization and administration of all     activities, personnel, physical facilities, and supplementary services wit in the    assigned building.
C. Serves as liaison between the school, staff, students, and community.
D. Shares responsibility for the recruitment and selection of all staff members.
E. Determines appropriate schedules for students and teachers.
F. Recognizes and supports the educational value of team management.
G. Implements negotiated contracts which have been agreed upon by the board of     directors and the employee units.
H. Administers the safety and security porcedures for the building, equipment, grounds,    and transportation.
I. Assumes responsibility for administering the instructional budget.
The Principal's Role in Leadership
As instructional leader, the principal:
A. Demonstrates a student-centered philosophy of education and considers the welfare of   students as a paramount responsibility.
   
B. Assumes the leadership role in developing philosophy, teaching strategies, and    techniques.
C. Demonstrates knowledge of curriculum; shows balanced concern for all subject    matter areas and activity programs.
D. Assists is creating a favorable working atmosphere within the building that is    conducive to optimum growth and learning.
E. Works with the staff in designing and providing effective inservice programs.
F. Promotes student and staff feelings of personal worth.
G. Promotes high staff morale and a high commitment to processional growth.
H. Maintains professional growth through workshops, seminars, conferences, and    personal reading.
I. Studies and evaluates current programs in education and works with the     instructional staff to implement those programs consistent with the goals and     objectives of the school district.
J. Contributes to the profession through active participation in professional     organization activities.
The Principal's Role in Supervision
As supervisor of the facilities, staff, and program the principal:
A. Establishes and administers rules and regulations pertaining to the welfare and    management of students.
B. Maintains accurate records and prepares reports.
C. Organizes and administers all student activity programs.
D. Works with instructional staff in recommending.
E. Coordinates budget development and makes recommendations for programs, staff, and   building needs.

The Principal's Role in Supervision
As supervisor of the facilities, staff, and program the principal:
A. Establishes and administers rules and regulations pertaining to the welfare and    management of students.
B. Maintains accurate records and prepares reports.
C. Organizes and administers all student activity programs.
D. Works with instructional staff in recommending promotion/retention/graduation    policies.
E. Coordinates budget development and makes recommendations for programs, staff, and   building needs.
The Principal's Role in Evaluation
As the person who is ultimately accountable for the effectiveness of the overall program, the principal:
A. Conducts a continuous evaluation procedure for all building personnel and     recommends to the superintendent their assignments, promotion, transfer or    dismissal.
B. Evaluates curriculum programs through testing, observation, and analysis.
C. Develops programs for evaluating student progress towards stated instructional    objectives.
The Principal's Role in Communication
As an effective communicator, the principal:
A. Interprets learning programs and board policies to the community.
B. Provides information to students and parents about school programs and services.
C. Provides opportunity for parent's and residents' involvement in advisory and    volunteer groups.
D. Serves as intermediary between staff and other administrators.
E. Is aware of resources of the community which could serve as a laboratory for    learning.
F. Maintains an awareness of factors outside the school which affect the school     structure.
G. Maintains an open line of communication with staff.
 
 

303.6 Administrator Evaluation

ADMINISTRATOR EVALUATION

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

The superintendent is responsible for designing an administrator evaluation instrument.  The formal evaluation will include written criteria related to the job description.  The superintendent, after receiving input from the administrators, will present the formal evaluation instrument to the board for approval.

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

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to conduct a formal evaluation of the probationary administrators and nonprobationary administrators prior to May 15.

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

 

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .21-.23A (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

Cross Reference: 303 Administrative Employees

Previously Code No.  303.4

 

Adopted:  September 16, 1985 

 

Reviewed:  March 1998
March 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

 

Revised: August 8, 1994
February 17, 2003
    

303.7 Administrator Professional Development

ADMINISTRATOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

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

As the task of educating our youth must be a top priority of the communities served by the Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn Community School District, the board of directors recognizes the importance of keeping the administrative team informed on current educational issues, research and trends.  To this end each administrator shall develop a systematic plan for professional renewal activities that shall include but not be limited to attendance at:

* Siouxland Conference Meetings

* annual state conference of the Iowa Association of School Boards,

* attend other area, regional, state or national meetings related to education

To stay abreast of national trends and successful cutting-edge programs, the superintendent shall budget sufficient funds to provide for the participation of all administrators in the activities listed above.  In addition, funds shall be provided for two administrators to attend a national educational conference such as NASB, AASB, NASSP, NMLE, NAEP conference every other year.

Administrators are encouraged to represent the successes of the district at area, state and national conferences.  Administrators who are presenting a district program at a national conference shall be allowed to attend with full reimbursement.  If this occurs during a year the administrator is scheduled to attend a national conference, that conference shall count as his/her conference for the year.  Should it fall on a year that administrator is not scheduled to attend a national conference, the administrator shall be allowed to attend the conference without effecting the scheduled rotation.

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

The administrator will report to the superintendent after an event.

Previously Code No. 310.1

 

Adopted:  May 10, 1993 

 

Reviewed:  March 1998
March 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

 

Revised:  February 17, 2003
                     

303.8 Administrator Consulting/Outside Employment

ADMINISTRATOR CONSULTING/OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT

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

The board reserves the right, however, to request the administrator cease the outside employment as a condition of continued employment.  The board will give the administrator thirty days notice to cease outside employment.

 

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .21 (2001).

Cross Reference: 303.3 Administrator Contract and Contract Nonrenewal
303.5 Administrator Duties

Adopted:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006 
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

304 Policy Implementation

304.1 Development and Enforcement of Administrative Regulations

DEVELOPMENT AND ENFORCEMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS

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

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

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

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to enforce administrative regulations.

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (2001).

Cross Reference: 304.2 Monitoring of Administrative Regulations

 

Adopted:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006 
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

304.2 Monitoring of Administrative Regulations

MONITORING OF ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS

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

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

 

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20 (2001).

Cross Reference: 304.1 Development and Enforcement of Administrative Regulations

 

Adopted:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006 
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

305 Administrator Code of Ethics

ADMINISTRATOR CODE OF ETHICS

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

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

The professional school administrator:

Upholds the honor and dignity of the profession in actions and relations with students, colleagues, board members and the public;
Obeys local, state and national laws; holds to high ethical and moral standards; and gives loyalty to this country and to the cause of democracy and liberty;
Accepts the responsibility to master and contribute to the growing body of specialized knowledge, concepts, and skills which characterize school administration as a profession;
Strives to provide the finest possible educational experiences and opportunities to the members of the school district community;
Seeks to preserve and enhance the prestige and status of the profession when applying for a position or entering into contractual agreements;
Carries out in good faith the policies duly adopted by the local board and the regulations of state authorities and renders professional service;
Disallows consideration of private gain or personal economic interest to affect the discharge of professional responsibilities;
Recognizes public schools are the public's business and seeks to keep the public informed about their schools; and,
Supports and practices the management team concept.

 

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (2001).
282 I.A.C. 13.

 

Adopted:  February 17, 2003

 

Reviewed: March 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016

306 Leave to Run for Public Office

LEAVE TO RUN FOR PUBLIC OFFICE

The Board will provide a leave of absence to an administrator to run for elective public office.

The Board shall grant an administrator a leave of absence to campaign as a candidate for any elective public office in the form of accrued vacation or leave without pay upon written request to the superintendent of schools at least 30 days prior to the starting date of the requested leave.  A superintendent requesting leave shall submit his/her request in the same manner to the Board.  The administrator will be entitled to one period of leave to run for the elective public office, and the leave may commence anytime within 30 days of a contested primary, special, or general election and continue until the day following the election.  The administrator may choose to use leave without pay or accrued vacation

 

Previously Code No. 312.2

Legal Reference: Iowa Code Chapter 55 (as amended by S.F. 199, 71st G.A. 2d Sess.).
570 Iowa Administrative Code 14.13

Cross Reference: 404.9 Leave to Run for Public Office (Certificated Staff).
410.9 Leave to Run for Public Office (Support Staff).

 

Adopted:  January 12, 1987

 

Reviewed:  January 20, 2003 
March 2006
June 20, 2011
July 11, 2016