500 Students

500 Statement of Guiding Principles for Student Personnel

STATEMENT OF GUIDING PRINCIPLES FOR STUDENT PERSONNEL
 
Student Rights and Responsibilities
 
Each student has the opportunity and the right to use school as a means for self-improvement and individual growth.  In so doing, he or she is expected to conduct his or her affairs in such a way as to assure other students the same opportunities without serving to restrict or otherwise inhibit their individual and collective rights.
 
Of equal importance is the right of school authorities to prescribe and control--consistent with fundamental and constitutional safeguards--student conduct in the schools.
 
In exercising this right, each building principal, working with his staff and with the students, will attempt to achieve the objectives and follow the procedures set forth by Board policies and administrative regulations pertaining to the various aspects of student right, student conduct, and student discipline.
 
 
Objective to be Achieved
 
The primary objective is the proper recognition and preservation of a student's constitutional rights and allowance for such rights:
 
•Freedom of Expression - Students may freely express their points of view provided they do not seek to coerce others to join in their mode of expression and provided also that they do not otherwise intrude upon the rights of others during school hours.
 
•Personal Appearance - Restrictions on a student's hair style or his manner of dress will be determined where there is a "clear and present danger to the student's health and safety, causes an interference with work, or creates classroom or school disorder" as a result of such hair style or manner of dress.  Participation in voluntary activities may necessitate specific requirements for approved grooming and dress due to the nature of the activity.
 
•The Right to Petition - Students are allowed to present petitions to the administration at any time.  Collecting of signatures on petitions is limited to before and after school hours.  No student will be subjected to disciplinary measures of any nature for signing a petition addressed to the administration--assuming that the petition is free of obscenities, libelous statements, personal attack, advocation of disruption which poses a probable threat of disruption to the regular school program, and is within the bounds of reasonable conduct.
 
•Student Due Process Rights - Students are to have clearly established means by which "administrative due process" is available to see that the individual's rights are protected.  Students are to be involved, singly and collectively, as citizens of the school with the attendant rights of such citizenship and corresponding responsibilities for the proper conduct of their own affairs and those of other students.
 
Legal References:         Constitution of Iowa, Art. I,  Sec. 9
 
Cross References:         502       Students Rights & Responsibilities
502.9    Search and Seizure
502.6    Interviews with Students
602.1    Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Sex and Handicap
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                      
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012

500.1 Objectives for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students

 
OBJECTIVES FOR EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS
 
This series of the board policy manual is devoted to the board's goals and objectives for assisting the students of the school district in obtaining an education.  Each student will have an opportunity to obtain an education in compliance with the policies in this series.
 
It is the goal of the board to develop a healthy social, intellectual, emotional, and physical self-concept in the students enrolled in the school district.  Each student attending school will have the opportunity to use it and its education program and services as a means for self-improvement and individual growth.  In so doing, the students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that assures each student the same opportunity.
 
The board supports the delivery of the education program and services to students free of discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender (sex), sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, socioeconomic status, disability, religion, or creed.  This concept of equal educational opportunity serves as a guide for the board and employees in making decisions relating to school district facilities, employment, selection of educational materials, equipment, curriculum, and regulations affecting students.
 
In the delivery of the education program, students will treat the employees with respect and students will receive the same in return.  Employees have the best interests of the students in mind and will assist them in school-related or personal matters if they are able to do so.  Students should feel free to discuss problems, whether school-related or personal, with the guidance counselor or other employees.
 
Board policies, rules and regulations affect students while they are on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.
 
Board policy refers to the term "parents" in many of the policies.  The term parents for purposes of this policy manual means the legal parents, the legal guardian or custodian of a student, and students who have reached the age of majority or are otherwise considered an adult by law.
 
Inquiries by students regarding compliance with equal educational opportunity and affirmative action laws and policies, including but not limited to complaints of discrimination, are directed to the Affirmative Action Coordinator by writing to the Affirmative Action Coordinator, Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn Community School District, Sanborn, Iowa  51248; or by telephoning 712-930-3281.
 
Inquiries by students regarding compliance with equal educational opportunity and affirmative action laws and policies, including but not limited to complaints of discrimination, may also be directed in writing to the Director of the Region VII office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education 8930 Ward Parkway, Suite 2037, Kansas City, MO.  64114 (816) 268-0550, http://www.state.ia.us/government/crc/index.html or Iowa Dept. of Education, Grimes State Office Bldg., Des Moines, IA. (515) 281-5294.  This inquiry or complaint to the federal or state office may be done instead of, or in addition to, an inquiry or complaint at the local level.
 
Further information and copies of the procedures for filing a complaint are available in the school district's central administrative office and the administrative office in each attendance center.
 
 
Approved:  February 17, 2003               
 
Reviewed:  September, 2006
December 17, 2012                                          
 
Revised:  January 22, 2013
                                                                                         
 

501 Student Attendance

STUDENT ATTENDANCE
 
It shall be the policy of this school district to encourage regular attendance on the part of each student.   An accurate and consistently maintained record system is crucial to alerting the staff of the attendance pattern of each student.
 
The staff should use resources available to meet the goal of achieving regular attendance for all students.  It is imperative that:
 

  1. Teachers let students know they care for them and want them in attendance every day.

 

  1. Parents and guardians be aware that teachers expect their help in seeing that students attend school daily.

 

  1. Students realize that valuable information and training is provided each day by the teachers, and they will miss important learning opportunities if they do not attend school daily.

 
Students who are absent from school without a reasonable excuse as determined by the administration shall be subject to disciplinary measures which may include, but not be limited to, short-term and long-term suspension and expulsion.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code Sections 274.1;  279.8;  299.8
Court Cases:  Burdick v. Babcock, 31 Ia. 562 (1871)
DPI Decision:  In re Sandra Mitchell v. Benton Community School District, 
1 D.P.I,  App. Dec. 20,  June 1978
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                 
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

501.1 Student Attendace Requirement

STUDENT ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT
 
It shall be the policy of the Board of Directors to require that all persons over seven and under sixteen years of age be enrolled in:
 
      1.   A public school, or
      2.   An approved private school, or
      3.   An approved private instruction program.
 
Program attendance is required for a minimum of twenty-four weeks.
 
Exceptions to this policy are limited to:
 
      1.   Persons who are over fourteen year of age and regularly employed, or
      2.   Persons who have completed the eighth grade, or persons excused by any court of record or judge.
 
The District will verify that all persons within the age limits of this policy are in attendance in appropriate/equivalent educational programs.  Appropriate procedures for handling school truancy cases will be developed and implemented by the school administration.
 
 
Legal References:         Iowa Code Sections 279.10;  279.33;  299.1;  299.2;  299.5;
299.15  Attorney General Rulings:  78-1-12
 
Cross References:         507.5    Emergency Plans & Drills
601.2    School Calendar
 
 
Adopted:  May 12, 1986                        
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                       
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

501.2 Entrance - Admissions

ENTRANCE - ADMISSIONS
 
Children in the school district community will be allowed to enroll in the school district's regular education program beginning at age five.  The child must be age five on or prior to September 15 to participate in the school district's kindergarten program.  The child must be age six on or prior to September 15 to begin the first grade of the education program.
 
The board will require evidence of age and residency in the form of a birth certificate or other evidence before the student may enroll in the school district's education program.  It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine what is satisfactory evidence for proof of age.
 
Prior to enrollment, the child must provide the administration with their health and immunization certificate.  Failure to provide this information within the time period set by the superintendent is reason for suspension, expulsion or denying admission to the student.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 282.1, .3, .6 (2001).
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 258.
 
 
Cross Reference:          501       Student Attendance
507.1    Student Health and Immunization Certificates
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed: September 2006 
December 17, 2012      
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003
                                                                             
 

501.3 Compulsory Attendance

COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE
 
Parents within the school district who have children over age six and under age sixteen by September 15, in proper physical and mental condition to attend school, shall have the children attend the school district at the attendance center designated by the board.  Students shall attend school the number of days school is in session in accordance with the school calendar.  Students of compulsory attendance age shall attend school a minimum of 175 days.  Students not attending the minimum days must be exempted by this policy as listed below or, for students in grades 7-12, referred to the county attorney or, for students in grades K-6, referred to the Attendance Cooperation process.  Exceptions to this policy include children who:
 
1)         have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or have obtained              a high school equivalency diploma;
2)         are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
3)         are attending an approved or probationally approved private college preparatory school;
4)         are attending an accredited nonpublic school; or,
5)         are receiving competent private instruction.
 
It is the responsibility of the parent of a child to provide evidence of the child’s mental and physical inability to attend school or of the child’s qualifications for one of the exceptions listed above. 
 
The principal shall investigate the cause for a student’s truancy.  If the principal is unable to secure the truant student’s attendance, the principal should discuss the next step with the school board.  If after school board action, the student is still truant, the principal shall refer the matter over to the county attorney for students in grades 7 - 12.  Truant students who have not yet completed sixth grade will be subject to the Attendance Cooperation Process outlined in the supporting administrative regulation.
 
The school will participate in mediation if requested by the county attorney.  The superintendent shall represent the school district in mediation.  The school district will monitor the student’s compliance with the mediation agreement and will report violations of the mediation agreement to the county attorney.
 
Legal References:         Iowa Code §§ 239.5B; 259A; 279.10-11; ch 299; 299A (1997)
441 I.A.C. 41.25(8)
1978 Op. Att’y. Gen. 379
 
Cross References:         501       Student Attendance
601.2    School Calendar
602.16  Equivalent Instruction
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:  January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised: March 1998
                                                                              
 

501.4 Student Attendance Records

STUDENT ATTENDANCE RECORDS
 
As part of the school district's records, the daily attendance of each student is recorded and maintained on file with the permanent records of the board secretary.
 
It is the responsibility of the principals to ensure that such reports are filed with the board secretary, the custodian of school records.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).
 
Cross Reference:          501       Student Attendance
506       Student Records
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:  March 1998
September 2006
December 17, 2012
                  
Revised:  February 17, 2003
                                                                        
 

501.5 Resident Students

RESIDENT STUDENTS
 
Children who are residents of the school district community will attend the school district without paying tuition.
 
The residence of a student means the place, abode, or dwelling of the student.  Generally, the legal dwelling of minors is the same as their parents.  However, a student may establish a dwelling with someone other than the parents and attend public school in the school district without paying tuition if the primary purpose for residing in the school district is not for the purpose of obtaining a free public education.  Further, students who have reached the age of majority and who are still eligible to attend an Iowa secondary school may declare their residence independent of the residence of the parents.
 
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 (2001).
1956 Op. Att'y Gen. 185.
1946 Op. Att'y Gen. 197.
1938 Op. Att'y Gen. 69.
1930 Op. Att'y Gen. 147.
 
Cross Reference:          501       Student Attendance
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:  March 1998 
September 2006
December 17, 2012
                 
Revised:  February 17, 2003
                                                                                
 

501.6 Nonresident Students

NONRESIDENT STUDENTS
 
Students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school but who are not legal residents of the school district may be admitted into the school district at the discretion of the superintendent upon application and payment of tuition.  The tuition rate is the current per-pupil cost of the school district as computed by the board secretary and as authorized by the Iowa Department of Education.
 
Resident students whose families move from the school district after the start of a semester and who wish to complete the semester in the school district may be permitted to attend without the payment of tuition at the discretion of the superintendent and approval of the board.  Students who plan to open enroll to the nonresident district may complete the school year without approval of the superintendent or board.  These students, other than students in grades eleven and twelve, must have the recommendation of the principal, as well as an adult who resides in the school district, identified for purposes of administration.
 
Students in grades eleven or twelve who are no longer residents of the school district, but were residents in the preceding school year, may continue to attend school until they graduate without the payment of tuition.  These students must have an adult, who resides in the school district, identified for purposes of administration.
 
Nonresident students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school and who have evidence they will become legal residents of the school district prior to the third Friday in September may be allowed to attend without the payment of tuition.
 
Legal Reference:           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).
Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.1, .2, .6, .7, .24 (2001).
 
Cross Reference:          501       Student Attendance
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:  March 1998 
September 2006
December 17, 2012
           
Revised:  February 17, 2003
                                                                               
 

501.7 International Students

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
 
Qualified international students may be enrolled and attend school if they are recommended by the American Field Service, Youth for Understanding, or an approved local organization and reside within the boundaries of this district.  Proper I-20 forms and other required papers must be processed by the district, the student, and the sponsoring organization before an international student can be formally admitted to school.
 
Cross Reference:          501.5    Resident Students
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                 
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

501.8 Shared-Time Students

SHARED-TIME STUDENTS
 
Students enrolled in private school may attend public schools on a shared-time basis, provided that (1) courses to be taken in the public school are not offered in the home institution; and (2) any prerequisites for such courses have been satisfied.
 
The Board of Directors has the authority to govern and regulate the attendance of shared-time students in the public school.
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code Section 257.26
Attorney General Rulings:  May 9, 1972
 
Cross Reference:          603.9    Shared-Time Enrollment
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                 
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

501.9 Pregnant Students

PREGNANT STUDENTS
 
The board encourages pregnant students to continue to attend the education program as long as they are physically able to do so.  The pregnant student may notify the principal or the guidance counselor as soon as she is aware of the pregnancy.  The school may require that a pregnant student provide the principal with a written note from her doctor relative to special conditions that might exist and specific suggestions as to how long the student may continue to attend classes.  If the student is unable to attend school because of her pregnancy, the student may be excused and arrangements made to continue her studies during her absence.  The student will resume classes upon the recommendation of her physician.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 216; 279.8; 280.3 (2001).
 
Cross Reference:          501       Student Attendance
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:  March 1998
September 2006
December 17, 2012
                  
Revised:  February 17, 2003
                                                                       
 

501.10 Homeless Children and Youth

HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTH
 
The board will make reasonable efforts to identify homeless children and youth within the district, encourage their enrollment and eliminate existing barriers to their receiving an education which may exist in district policies or practices.  The designated coordinator for identification of homeless children and for tracking and monitoring programs and activities for these children is the Superintendent.
 
Legal Reference:           No Child Left Behind, Title X, Sec. 722, P.L. 107-110 (2002).
42 U.S.C. §§ 11431 et seq. (1994).
281 I.A.C. 33 (2005).
 
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
 
Adopted: November 12, 1990              
 

Reviewed:  March, 1998
September 2006                         
December 17, 2012 
 
Revised: August 15, 2005
                                                                   

501.10E Adopted Definition of Homeless Children and Youth

HARTLEY-MELVIN-SANBORN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
ADOPTED DEFINITION OF HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTH
 
The term “homeless children and youth” –
 
(A) means individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence…; and
 
(B) includes—
            (i) children and youths who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; are abandoned in hospitals; or are awaiting foster care placement;
            (ii) children and youths 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…
            (iii) children and youths who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings; and
            (iv) migratory children who qualify as homeless for the purposes of this subtitle because the children are living in circumstances described in clauses (i) through (iii). 
 

501.11 Student Transfers In

STUDENT TRANSFERS IN
 
Students who transfer into the school district must meet the immunization and age requirements set out for students who initially enroll in the school district.  The school district reserves the right to deny admission to any nonresident student unless the student is complying with open enrollment procedures.
 
The school district shall 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.
 
The superintendent shall 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.
 
Legal Reference:        20 U.S.C. § 1232g (1988).
Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 282.1, .3; 299A (1995).
 
Cross Reference:       501             Student Attendance
505.3          Student Honors and Awards
507             Student Health and Well-Being
 
Previously Policy No. 505.7
 
Adopted:  February 8, 1988                   
 
Reviewed:   March 1998
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:   July 17, 1995
                                                                       
 

501.12 Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals

STUDENT TRANSFERS OUT OR WITHDRAWALS
 
If the student's parents wish to withdraw or transfer the student from school prior to completing and graduating from the education program, they will notify the superintendent in writing as soon as possible of the decision to withdraw or transfer the student from the education program.  The student or parent should present this written notice at the office and receive instructions regarding the return of textbooks, library books, locker equipment, hot lunch tickets, etc. 
 
The notice will state the student's final day of attendance.  If the student is not enrolling in another school district, the school district will maintain the student's records in the same manner as the records of students who have graduated from the school district.
 
If the parents wish to have the student's cumulative record sent to the new school district, the parents will notify the superintendent in writing.  This notice will include the name of the school district and the person at the new school district to whom the student's cumulative records should be sent.  If the new school district requests the student's cumulative records, the school district will forward the cumulative records and notify the parents the records have been sent.  The notice will inform the parents of their right to review the records sent.
 
If the student is of compulsory education age and not transferring to another public school district or an accredited nonpublic school, the parents will notify the superintendent that the student is receiving competent private instruction and file the necessary competent private instruction reports.
 
Legal Reference:           20 U.S.C. § 1232g (1994).
Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 299.1-.1A (2001).
 
Cross Reference:          501       Student Attendance
506       Student Records
602.16  Equivilant Instruction
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                 
 
Reviewed: September 2006                   
December 17, 2012
 

501.13 Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Sending District

OPEN ENROLLMENT TRANSFERS - PROCEDURES AS A SENDING DISTRICT
 
The school district will participate in open enrollment as a sending district.  As a sending district, the board will allow resident students who meet the requirements to open enroll to another public school district.
 
Parents requesting open enrollment out of the school district for their student will notify the sending and receiving school district no later than March 1 in the school year proceeding the first year desired for open enrollment.  The notice is made on forms provided by the Department of Education.  The forms are available at the central administration office.
 
Parents of children who will begin kindergarten in the school district are exempt from the open enrollment March 1 deadline.  Parents of children who will begin kindergarten will file in the same manner set forth above by September 1.  Parents who have good cause as defined by law for failing to meet the March 1 deadline may make an open enrollment request by September 1 unless another deadline applies.
 
The receiving district will approve open enrollment requests according to the timelines established by law.  The parents may withdraw the open enrollment request prior to the start of the school year.  The receiving district’s superintendent will notify the parents and sending school district by mail within five days of the school district’s action to approve or deny the open enrollment request. 
 
The board may approve a student's request to allow the receiving district to enter the school district for the purposes of transportation.
 
An open enrollment request out of the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.  The determining factor for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the receiving school district is appropriate for the student's needs.  The area education agency director of special education serving the receiving district will determine whether the program is appropriate.  The special education student will remain in the school district until the final determination is made.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to maintain open enrollment request applications and notice forms.  It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop appropriate office procedures and administrative regulations necessary for open enrollment requests.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1 (2005).
House File 882, 2005 General Assembly
281 I.A.C. 17.
1990 Op.  Att'y Gen. 75.
 
Cross Reference:   501  Student Attendance
506   Student Records
 
Adopted:  July 17, 2000                         
 
Reviewed: September 2006
December 27, 2012                   
 
Revised:  October 16, 2000
February 17, 2003
November 17, 2003
August 15, 2005
 

501.14 Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Receiving District

OPEN ENROLLMENT TRANSFERS - PROCEDURES AS A RECEIVING DISTRICT
 
The school district will participate in open enrollment as a receiving district.  As a receiving district, the board will allow nonresident students, who meet the legal requirements, to open enroll into the school district.  The board will have complete discretion to determine the attendance center of the students attending the school district under open enrollment.
 
The board will take action on the open enrollment request no later than March 1 in the year preceding the first year desired for open enrollment.
 
The superintendent will notify the sending school district within five days of the board's action to approve or deny the open enrollment request.  The superintendent will notify the parents within fifteen days of the board's action to approve or deny the open enrollment request.  The superintendent will also forward a copy of the board's action with a copy of the open enrollment request to the Iowa Department of Education.
 
Open enrollment requests into the school district will not be approved if insufficient classroom space exists.  Open enrollment requests into the school district will also not be approved for students who have been suspended or expelled by the administration or the board of the school district the student is or was attending until the student has been reinstated into the school district from which the student was suspended or expelled.  Once the student is reinstated, the student's open enrollment request will be considered in the same manner as other open enrollment requests provided the required timelines are met.
 
Open enrollment requests into the school district that, if denied, would result in students from the same nuclear family being enrolled in different school districts, will be given highest priority.  The board, in its discretion, may waive the insufficient classroom space reason for denial for students of the same nuclear family to prevent the division of a nuclear family between two school districts.  Other open enrollment requests into the school district are considered in the order received by the school district with the first open enrollment request given a higher priority than the second open enrollment request and so forth.
 
Generally, students in grades ten through twelve open enrolling into the school district will not be eligible for participation in interscholastic athletics during the first ninety days of open enrollment into the school district.
 
Parents of students whose open enrollment requests are approved by the board are responsible for providing transportation to and from the receiving school district without reimbursement.  The board will not approve transportation into the sending district.
 
An open enrollment request into the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.  The determining factors for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the school district is appropriate for the student's needs and whether the enrollment of the special education student will cause the class size to exceed the maximum allowed.  The area education agency director of special education serving the school district will determine whether the program is appropriate.  The special education student will remain in the sending district until the final determination is made.
 
The policies of the school district will apply to students attending the school district under open enrollment.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop appropriate office procedures and administrative regulations necessary for open enrollment requests.
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 17.
1990 Op. Att'y Gen. 75.
 
Cross Reference:          501.11  Student Transfers In
501.12  Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals
501.13  Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Sending District
506       Student Records
507       Student Health and Well-Being
 
 
Adopted:  July 17, 2000                         
 
Reviewed:  October 13, 2003
September 2006  
December 17, 2012                                                  
 
Revised:   October 16, 2000
February 17, 2003
August 15, 2005

501.15 Truancy - Unexcused Absences

TRUANCY - UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
 
Regular attendance by the students at school is essential for students to obtain the maximum opportunities from the education program.  Parents and students alike are encouraged to ensure an absence from school is a necessary absence.  Students will attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center.
 
Truancy is the failure to attend school for the minimum number of days established in the school calendar by the board.  Truancy is the act of being absent without a reasonable excuse.  These absences will include, but not be limited to, tardiness, shopping, hunting, concerts, preparation or participation in parties and other celebrations and employment.  Truancy will not be tolerated by the board.
 
Students are subject to disciplinary action for truancy including suspension and expulsion.  It is within the discretion of the principal to determine, in light of the circumstances, whether a student may make up work missed because of truancy.  Students receiving special education services will not be assigned to in-school suspension unless the goals and objectives of the student's Individualized Education Program are capable of being met.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.  The administrative regulations will indicate the disciplinary action to be taken for truancy.
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).
 
Cross Reference:          501       Student Attendance
503       Student Discipline
504       Student Activities
506       Student Records
 
 
Approved:  November 11, 1991             
 
Reviewed: March 1998  
September 2006
December 17, 2012
                                                                           
Revised: February 17, 2003
                                                                            
 

501.15R Truancy - Unexcused Absences Regulation

TRUANCY - UNEXCUSED ABSENCES REGULATION
 
Daily, punctual attendance is an integral part of the learning experience and is required of all students to receive the maximum benefit of the educational program.  The habit of good attendance established early is one which helps a person be successful throughout his or her lifetime.  More and more, employers, colleges and vocational schools expect good attendance and are checking attendance records for absences and tardies.  They are aware that good and prompt attendance indicates dependability in a student.
 
The education that goes on in the classroom builds from day to day and as a result, absences always cause some disruption in the educational progress of the absent student.  Students who are absent may not understand what the teacher is currently presenting, and may also become discouraged with the double burden of keeping current and making up missed work.  In order to maintain interest and understanding in the instructional program, students should not expect to be absent any more than is absolutely necessary.  Irregular attendance or tardiness by students not only retards their own studies, but also interferes with the progress of those students who are regular and prompt in attendance.  Attendance is a shared responsibility that requires cooperation and communication among students, parents and school.
 
Students who are absent without a reasonable excuse, as determined by the principal, will be assigned to detention, Saturday school, in-school suspension, or other appropriate disciplinary sanction.  Reasonable excuses include illness, family emergencies, recognized religious observances and school sponsored or approved activities.  Reasonable excuses may also include family trips or vacations if the student's work is finished prior to the trip or vacation.  Detention, Saturday school, in-school suspension, or other appropriate disciplinary sanction will be assigned on a two-for-one basis.
 
Parents are expected to telephone the school office to report a student's absence prior to 9:00 a.m. on the day of the absence.  Students with unexcused absences may also be referred to the at-risk coordinator.
 
In the event the student has not completed all of the student's assignments while in in-school suspension, the student may remain out of class and in in-school suspension until caught up in every class.
 
The time allowed for make-up work may be extended at the discretion of the classroom teacher.
 
Students will be allowed to make up all work missed due to any absence and will receive full credit for make-up work handed in on time.  Teachers will not have attendance or grading practices that are in conflict with this provision.
 
 
 

501.16 Student Absences - Excused

STUDENT ABSENCES – EXCUSED
 
Regular attendance by student is essential for student to obtain the maximum opportunities from the education program.  Parents and students alike are encouraged to ensure an absence from school is a necessary absence.  Students will attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center.
 
Student absences approved by the principal are excused absences.  Excused absences will count as days in attendance for purposes of the truancy law.  These absences include, but are not limited to, illness, family emergencies, recognized religious observances appointments that cannot be scheduled outside the school day and school-sponsored or approved activities.
 
Students whose absences are approved will make up the work missed and receive full credit for the missed school work.  It is the responsibility of the student to initiate a procedure with the student’s teacher to complete the work missed. 
 
Students who wish to participate in school-sponsored activities must attend school 3/4 of the day the day of the activity unless permission has been given by the principal for the student to be absent. 
 
It is the responsibility of the parent to notify the student’s attendance center as soon as the parent knows the student will not be attending school on that day.  The principal may request evidence or written verification of the student’s reason for absence. 
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy. 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code 294.4; 299 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).
 
Cross Reference:          501       Student Attendance

  1. Student Discipline
  2. Student Activities
  3. Student Records

 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                 
 
Reviewed:  September 2006                  
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  July 27, 2015
 

501.17 Students of Legal Age

STUDENTS OF LEGAL AGE
 
Students who have attained legal age may continue the education program without payment of tuition as long as they are eligible to attend an Iowa public school and are residents of the school district.
 
Parents will be allowed to access and view the student's records without written permission from the student if the student is still a dependent for tax purposes.  In most cases, with the discretion of the principal or the superintendent, the student will be able to make decisions and sign documents rather than requiring parental permission or signature.
 
 
Legal Reference:           20 U.S.C. § 1232g (1994).
Iowa Code §§ 22; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4; 599.1; 622.10 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).
 
Cross Reference:          501       Student Attendance
506       Student Records
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                 
 
Reviewed: September 2006              
December 17, 2012
 

501.18 Student Release During School Hours

STUDENT RELEASE DURING SCHOOL HOURS.
 
Students will be allowed to leave the school district facilities during school hours only with prior authorization from their parents, unless the parent appears personally at the student's attendance center to arrange for the release of the student during school hours, or with the permission of the principal.
 
Approved reasons for release of a student during the school day will include, but not be limited to, illness, family emergencies, medical appointments, religious instruction, classes outside the student's attendance center, employment for which the student has been issued a work permit and other reasons determined appropriate by the principal.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code § 294.4 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).
 
Cross Reference:          501       Student Attendance
503       Student Discipline
504       Student Activities
506       Student Records
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                 
 
Reviewed: September 2006             
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  July 27, 2015
 

501.19 Student Work Permits

STUDENT WORK PERMITS
 
The superintendent of schools shall, when requested, issue age and work permits to students in accordance with provisions of the state and federal child labor laws.
 
 
Legal References:         Iowa Code Section 92.11
 
 
Previously Code No. 504.6
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                 
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

502 Student Rights & Responsibilities

502.1 Student Complaints and Grievances

STUDENT COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES
 
Student complaints and grievances regarding board policy or administrative regulations and other matters should be addressed to the student's teacher or another licensed employee, other than the administration, for resolution of the complaint.  It is the goal of the board to resolve student complaints at the lowest organizational level.
 
If the complaint cannot be resolved by a licensed employee, the student may discuss the matter with the principal within five school days of the employee's decision.  If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within five school days after speaking with the principal.
 
If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved by the superintendent, the student may ask to have the matter placed on the board agenda of a regularly scheduled board meeting in compliance with board policy.
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code § 279.8 (2001).
 
Cross Reference:          204.10  Board Meeting Agenda
204.12  Participation by the Public
502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
504.3    Student Publications
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                 
 
Reviewed: September 2006             
December 17, 2012
 

502.2 Care of School Property/Vandalism

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY/VANDALISM
 
Students will treat school district property with the care and the respect they would treat their own property.  Students found to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school district property may be required to reimburse the school district.  They may be subject to discipline under board policy and the school district rules and regulations.  They may also be referred to local law enforcement authorities.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative rules regarding this policy.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.4, .5; 613.16 (2001).
 
Cross Reference:          502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                 
 
Reviewed: September 2006             
December 17, 2012
 

502.3 Freedom of Expression

FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
 
Student expression, other than student expression in student-produced official school publications, made on the school district premises or under the jurisdiction of the school district or as part of a school-sponsored activity may be attributed to the school district; therefore, student expression must be responsible.  Student expression must be appropriate to assure that the students learn and meet the goals of the school activity and that the potential audience is not exposed to material that may be harmful or inappropriate for their level of maturity.
 
Students will be allowed to express their viewpoints and opinions as long as the expression is responsible.  The expression will not, in the judgment of the administration, encourage the breaking of laws, defame others, be obscene or indecent, or cause a material and substantial disruption to the educational program.  The administration, when making this judgment, will consider whether the activity in which the expression was made is school-sponsored and whether review or prohibition of the students' speech furthers an educational purpose.  Further, the expression must be done in a reasonable time, place, and manner that is not disruptive to the orderly and efficient operation of the school district.
 
Students who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary measures.  Employees are responsible for insuring students' expression is in keeping with this policy.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
Legal Reference:           U.S. Const. amend. I.
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; 280.22; 282.3 (2001).
 
Cross Reference:          502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
504       Student Activities
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                 
 
Reviewed:  September 2006            
December 17, 2012
 

502.4 Smoking - Drinking - Drugs

SMOKING - DRINKING - DRUGS
 
The board prohibits the distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol, tobacco, other controlled substances, or "look alike" substances that appear to be tobacco, beer, wine, 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.
 
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 cigarettes, tobacco or tobacco products for those under the age of eighteen, may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.  Possession, use or being under the influence of beer, wine, 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 abuse 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 abuse prevention program will include:
 
·       Age-appropriate, developmentally-based drug and alcohol 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 peer pressure to use tobacco, drugs or alcohol;
·       A statement to students that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful;
·       Standards of conduct for students that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, being under the influence of or distribution of illicit drugs and 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 successfully complete an appropriate rehabilitation program;
·       Information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation and re-entry programs available to students;
·       A requirement that parents and students be given a copy of the standards of conduct and the statement of disciplinary sanctions required; and
·       Notification to parents and students that compliance with the standards of conduct is mandatory.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
Legal Reference:           34 C.F.R. Pt. 86 (1999).
Iowa Code §§ 123.46; 124; 279.8, .9; 453A (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(9); .5(3)(e), .5(4)(e), .5(5)(e), .5(21).
 
Cross Reference:          502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
503       Student Discipline
507       Student Health and Well-Being
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:   September 19, 1994 
March 1998
September 2006
December 17, 2012
           
Revised:  February 17, 2003
                                                                             

502.5 Student Lockers

STUDENT LOCKERS
 
Student lockers are the property of the school district.  Students shall use the lockers assigned to them by the school district for storing their school materials and personal belongings necessary for attendance at school.  It shall be 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.  Students will be present during the search of their lockers.  Student lockers may also be searched in compliance with board policy regulating search and seizure.
 
 
Legal References:         Iowa Code §§ 279.8;  808A  (1995).
Iowa  Code ch. 808A (Supp. 1995)
 
Cross Reference:          502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
 
 
Adopted:  October 9, 1995                    
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                 
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

502.6 Interviews of Students by Outside Agencies

INTERVIEWS OF STUDENTS BY OUTSIDE AGENCIES
 
Generally, students may not be interviewed during the school day by persons other than parents and school district officials and employees.
 
Requests from law enforcement officers and from persons other than parents, school district officials, and employees to interview students are made through the principal's office.  Upon receiving a request, it is the responsibility of the principal to determine whether the request will be granted.  Generally, prior to granting a request, the principal will attempt to contact the parents to inform them of the request and to ask them to be present.
 
If a child abuse investigator wishes to interview a student, the principal will defer to the investigator's judgment as to whether the student should be interviewed independently from the student's parents, whether the school is the most appropriate setting for the interview, and who will be present during the interview.
 
Students will not be taken from school without the consent of the principal and without proper warrant.
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 232; 280.17 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 102.
441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 275.
 
Cross Reference:          405.7    Child Abuse Reporting by Certified Personnel
502.9    Search and Seizure
503       Student Discipline
 
Previously Code No. 505.5
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985               
 
Reviewed:  March 1998  
September 2006
December 17, 2012
                
Revised:  February 17, 2003
                                                                       
 

502.7 Weapons

WEAPONS
 
The board believes weapons and 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 or dangerous objects and look-a-likes.  Weapons and other dangerous objects and look-a-likes shall 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 a weapon or dangerous objects and look-a-likes on school property shall be notified of the incident.  Confiscation of weapons or dangerous objects shall be reported to the law enforcement officials, and students will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.
 
Students bringing a firearm to school or knowingly possessing firearms at school shall be expelled for not less than one year. Students bringing to school or possessing dangerous weapons, including firearms, will be referred to law enforcement authorities.  The superintendent shall have the authority to recommend this expulsion requirement be modified for students on a case-by-case basis.  For purposes of this portion of this policy, the term  “firearm” includes, but is not limited to, any weapon which is designed to expel a projectile by  the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such weapon, a muffler or silencer for such a weapon, or any explosive, incendiary or poison gas.
 
Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials shall be exempt from this policy.  The principal may allow authorized persons to display weapons or other dangerous objects or look-a-likes for educational purposes.  Such a display shall also be exempt from this policy. 
 
 
Adopted:  October 10, 1994                   
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                 
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

502.8 Student-to-Student Harassment and Bullying

STUDENT-TO-STUDENT HARASSMENT AND BULLYING
 
The school district is committed to providing all students with a safe and civil school environment in which all members of the school community are treated with dignity and respect. To that end, the school district has in place policies, procedures, and practices that are designed to reduce and eliminate bullying and harassment as well as processes and procedures to deal with incidents of bullying and harassment when they occur. Bullying and harassment of students by other students, school officials, faculty, staff, and volunteers who have direct contact with students will not be tolerated in the school district. The school district prohibits harassment, bullying, hazing, or any other victimization based on actual or perceived age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status and which creates an objectively hostile school environment.
 
This policy is in effect while students are on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-owned and/or school-operated vehicles; while attending or engaged in school sponsored activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district. If after an investigation a student is found to be in violation of this policy, the student shall be disciplined by measures up to and including suspension and expulsion.
 
Harassment as set forth above may include, but is not limited to the following behavior/overt acts and or circumstances:

  • Verbal, nonverbal, physical or written harassment, bullying, hazing, or other victimization that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering to the victim;
  •     Repeated remarks of a demeaning nature that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering to the victim;
  •     Implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, achievements, property, etc. that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering to the victim;
  • Demeaning jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering to the victim; and/or
  • Unreasonable interference with a student's performance or creation of an intimidating, offensive, or hostile learning environment.

 
Sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

  • Submission to the conduct is made either implicitly or explicitly a term or condition of the student’s education or benefits;
  • Submission to or rejection of the conduct by a school employee is used as the basis for academic decisions affecting that student; or
  • The conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with the student’s academic performance by creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive education environment.

 
In situations between students and school officials, faculty, staff, or volunteers who have direct contact with students, bullying and harassment may also include the following behaviors:

  • Requiring that a student submit to bullying or harassment by another student, either explicitly or implicitly, as a term or condition of the targeted student’s education or participation in school programs or activities; and/or
  • Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as a basis for decisions affecting the student.

 
Retaliation against a student because the student has filed a bullying or harassment complaint or assisted or participated in a harassment investigation or proceeding is also prohibited. Students who knowingly file false harassment complaints or give false statements in an investigation shall be subject to discipline by measures up to and including suspension and expulsion, as shall any student who is found to have retaliated against another in violation of this policy.
 
The district will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of harassment. The building principal, Level I investigator, or designee will be responsible for handling all complaints by students alleging harassment.
 
It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the investigator and principals, to develop procedures regarding this policy.
 
 
Legal References:         20 U.S. C. §§ 1221-1234i (1988)
29 U.S. C. § 794 (1988)
42 U.S. C. §§2000d-2000d-7 (1988)
42 U.S.C. §§12001-et seq. (Supp. 1990)
Iowa Code §216.9,  280.3 (1993)
 
Cross Reference:          502.8    Student to Student Harassment
502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
503       Student Discipline
506       Student Records
 
 
Adopted:  December 12, 1994               
 
Reviewed:  January 20, 2003
September, 2006
December 17, 2012           
 
Revised:   January 17, 2000
October 18, 2004
July 16, 2007
January 22, 2013

502.8E1 Harassment Complaint Form

See attached file.

Attachment: 

502.8E2 Witness Disclosure Form

See attached file.

Attachment: 

502.8R1 Student-To-Student Harassment Investigation Procedures

STUDENT-TO-STUDENT HARASSMENT INVESTIGATION PROCEDURES
 
Harassment of students by other students will not be tolerated in the school district.  This policy is in effect while students are on school grounds, school district property, or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-owned and/or school-operated vehicles or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.
 
Harassment prohibited by the school district includes, but is not limited to, harassment on the basis of race, sex, creed, color, national origin, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identification, or disability.  Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to the investigation procedure which may result in discipline, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.
 
Sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
 
        ·    submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a student's education or of a student's participation in school programs or activities;
        ·    submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis for decisions affecting the student; or
        ·    such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's performance or creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile learning environment.
 
Sexual harassment as set out above, may include, but is not limited to the following:
 
        ·    verbal or written harassment or abuse;
        ·    pressure for sexual activity;
        ·    repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications;
        ·    unwelcome touching;
        ·    suggesting or demanding sexual involvement, accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, achievements, etc.
 
Harassment on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, marital status or disability means conduct of a verbal or physical nature that is designed to embarrass, distress, agitate, disturb, or trouble students when:
 
        ·    submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a student's education or of a student's participation in school programs or activities;
        ·    submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis for decisions affecting the student; or
        ·    such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's performance or creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile learning environment.
 
Harassment as set forth above may include, but is not limited to the following:
 
        ·    verbal, physical or written harassment or abuse;
        ·    repeated remarks of a demeaning nature;
        ·    implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, achievements, etc.;
        ·    demeaning jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student.
 
Harassment and abuse are violations of school district policies, rules and regulations and, in some cases, may also be a violation of criminal or other laws.  The school district has the authority to report students violating this rule to law enforcement officials.
 
Students who feel that they have been harassed should:
 
        ·    Communicate to the harasser that the student expects the behavior to stop, if the student is comfortable doing so.  If the student needs assistance communicating with the harasser, the student should ask a teacher, counselor or principal to help.
        ·    If the harassment does not stop, or the student does not feel comfortable confronting the harasser, the student should:
              --    tell a teacher, counselor or principal; and
              --    write down exactly what happened, keep a copy and give another copy to the teacher, counselor or principal including;

  • what, when and where it happened;
  • who was involved;
  • exactly what was said or what the harasser did;
  • witnesses to the harassment;
  • what the student said or did, either at the time or later;
  • how the student felt; and
  • how the harasser responded.

 
COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
       
A student who believes that the student has been harassed will notify the school guidance counselor, the designated investigator.  The alternate investigator is the principal.  The investigator may request that the student complete the Harassment Complaint form and turn over evidence of the harassment, including, but not limited to, letters, tapes, or pictures.  Information received during the investigation is kept confidential to the extent possible.
 
The investigator, with the approval of the principal, or the principal has the authority to initiate a harassment investigation in the absence of a written complaint.
 
INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE
 
The investigator will reasonably and promptly commence the investigation upon receipt of the complaint.  The investigator will interview the complainant and the alleged harasser.  The alleged harasser may file a written statement refuting or explaining the behavior outlined in the complaint.  The investigator may also interview witnesses as deemed appropriate.
 
Upon completion of the investigation, the investigator will make written findings and conclusions as to each allegation of harassment and report the findings and conclusions to the principal.  The investigator will outline the findings of the investigation to the principal. 
 
 
RESOLUTION OF THE COMPLAINT
 
Following receipt of the investigator's report, the principal may investigate further, if deemed necessary, and make a determination of the appropriate next step which may include discipline, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.
 
Prior to the determination of the appropriate remedial action, the principal may, at the principal's discretion, interview the complainant and the alleged harasser.  The principal will file a written report closing the case and documenting any disciplinary action taken or any other action taken in response to the complaint.  The complainant, the alleged harasser and the investigator will receive notice as to the conclusion of the investigation.
 
POINTS TO REMEMBER IN THE INVESTIGATION
 
        ·    Evidence uncovered in the investigation is confidential.
        ·    Complaints must be taken seriously and investigated.
        ·    No retaliation will be taken against individuals involved in the investigation process.
        ·    Retaliators will be disciplined up to and including suspension and expulsion.
 
CONFLICTS
 
If the investigator is a witness to the incident, the alternate investigator is the investigator.
 

502.9 Search and Seizure

SEARCH AND SEIZURE
 
School district property is held in public trust by the board.  School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search students, student lockers, personal effects, desks, work areas or student vehicles based on a reasonable and articulable suspicion that a school district policy, 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.
 
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, barbituates, apparatus used for controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, weapons, explosives, poisons and stolen property.  Such items are not to be possessed by a student while they are on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/operated school or chartered buses; 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 shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
 
Legal References:          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 (1995)
Iowa Code ch. 808A (Supp. 1995)
281 I.A. C. 12.3(8)
 
 
Cross References:          502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
503       Student Discipline
 
 
Adopted:  May 12, 1986                       
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                 
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  October 9, 1995
 

502.9E1 Search and Seizure Checklist

See attached form.

Attachment: 

502.9R1 Search and Seizure Regulation

SEARCH AND SEIZURE REGULATION
 
I.      Searches, in general.
 
        A.      Reasonable and Articulable Suspicion:  A search of a student will be justified when there are reasonable grounds for the suspicion that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law or school district policy, rules, or regulations affecting school order.
 
                  Reasonable suspicion may be formed by considering factors such as the following:
 
                  (1)      eyewitness observations by employees;
                  (2)      information received from reliable sources;
                  (3)      suspicious behavior by the student; or,
                  (4)      the student's past history and school record although this factor alone is not sufficient to provide the basis for reasonable suspicion.
 
        B.       Reasonable Scope:  A search will be permissible in its scope or intrusiveness when the measures adopted are reasonably related to the objectives of the search.  Reasonableness of scope or intrusiveness may be determined based on factors such as the following:
 
                  (1)  the age of the student;
                  (2)  the sex of the student;
                  (3)  the nature of the infraction; and
                  (4)  the emergency requiring the search without delay.
 
II.  Types of Searches
 
        A.      Personal Searches
 
                  1.       A student's person and/or personal effects (e.g., purse, backpack, etc.) may be searched when a school official has reasonable suspicion to believe the student is in possession of illegal or contraband items or has violated school district policies, rules, regulations or the law affecting school order.
 
                  2.       Personally intrusive searches will require more compelling circumstances to be considered reasonable.
 
                            (a)    Pat-Down Search:  If a pat-down search or a search of a student's garments (such as jackets, socks, pockets, etc.) is conducted, it will be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex as the student and with another adult witness of the same sex present, when feasible.
 
                            (b)    A more intrusive search, short of a strip search, of the student's person, handbags, book bags, etc., is permissible in emergency situations when the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors are threatened.  Such a search may only be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex as the student, with an adult of the same sex present unless the health or safety of students will be endangered by the delay which may be caused by following these procedures.
 
        B.       Locker and Desk Inspections 
 
                  Although school lockers and desks are temporarily assigned to individual students, they remain the property of the school district at all times.  The school district has a reasonable and valid interest in insuring the lockers and desks are properly maintained.  For this reason, lockers and desks are subject to unannounced inspections and students have no legitimate expectations of privacy in the locker or desk.  Periodic inspections of all or a random selection of lockers or desks may be conducted by school officials in the presence of the student or another individual.  Any contraband discovered during such searches will be confiscated by school officials and may be turned over to law enforcement officials.
 
                  The contents of a student's locker  or desk (coat, backpack, purse, etc.) may be searched when a school official has reasonable and articulable suspicion that the contents contains illegal or contraband items or evidence of a violation of law or school policy or rule.  Such searches should be conducted in the presence of another adult witness when feasible.
 
        C.       Automobile Searches
 
                  Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right.  The school retains authority to conduct routine patrols of the student parking lots.  The interior of a student's automobile on the school premises may be searched if the school official has reasonable and articulable suspicion to believe that illegal, unauthorized or contraband items are contained inside.
 
 

502.10 Student Appearance

STUDENT APPEARANCE
 
The board believes inappropriate student appearance causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors.
 
Students are expected to adhere to standards of cleanliness and dress that are compatible with the requirements of a good learning environment.  The standards will be those generally acceptable to the community as appropriate in a school setting.
 
The board expects students to be clean and well-groomed and wear clothes in good repair and appropriate for the time, place and occasion.  Clothing or other apparel promoting products illegal for use by minors and clothing displaying obscene material, profanity, or reference to prohibited conduct are disallowed.  While the primary responsibility for appearance lies with the students and their parents, appearance disruptive to the education program will not be tolerated.  When, in the judgment of a principal, a student's appearance or mode of dress disrupts the educational process or constitutes a threat to health or safety, the student may be required to make modifications.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
 
Legal Reference:           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).
Sims v. Colfax Comm. School Dist., 307 F.Supp. 485 (Iowa 1970).
Iowa Code § 279.8 (2001).
 
 
Cross Reference:           500.1    Objectives for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students
502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
 
 
Approved:  October 9, 1995                  
 
Reviewed:  March 1998                  
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003
 

502.11 Use of Motor Vehicles

USE OF MOTOR VEHICLES
 
The board recognizes the convenience to families and students of having students drive to and park at their school attendance center.  Driving a motor vehicle to and parking it at the student's attendance center is a privilege.
 
Students who drive to and park at their school attendance center shall only drive to and park at their designated attendance center.  Students may not loiter around or be in their vehicle during the school day without permission from the principal.  Students shall leave their attendance center when there is no longer a legitimate reason for them to be at their attendance center.  Students who drive shall enter and leave the parking lot by the routes designated by the principal. 
 
Students who wish to drive to and park at their school attendance center shall comply with the rules and regulations established by the building principal.  Failure to comply with this policy or the school district rules shall be reason for revocation of school driving and parking privileges as well as other disciplinary action including suspension and expulsion.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 321 (2001).
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:   March 16, 1998          
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised: May 11, 1998
November 18, 2002
 

502.12 Student Use of Bicycles

STUDENT USE OF BICYCLES
 
The principal of each building shall set rules for students who ride bicycles to and from school.  The privilege of riding a bicycle to school may be withdrawn if a student fails to observe these rules.
 
Previously Code No. 504.4
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                  
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

503 Student Discipline

503.1 Student Conduct

STUDENT CONDUCT
 
The board believes inappropriate student conduct causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment, interferes with the rights of others, or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, and visitors on school premises.  Appropriate classroom behavior allows teachers to communicate more effectively with students.
 
Students will conduct themselves in a manner fitting to their age level and maturity and with respect and consideration for the rights of others while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.  Consequences for the misconduct will be fair and developmentally appropriate in light of the circumstances.
 
Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be disciplined for conduct which disrupts or interferes with the education program; conduct which disrupts the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school activity; conduct which disrupts the rights of other students to participate in or obtain their education; conduct that is violent or destructive; or conduct which interrupts the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere.  Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to, removal from the classroom, detention, suspension, probation, and expulsion.
 
A student who commits an assault against an employee on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-owned or school-operated chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school district activities will be suspended by the principal.  Notice of the suspension is sent to the board president.  The board will review the suspension to determine whether to impose further sanctions against the student which may include expulsion.  Assault for purposes of this section of this policy is defined as:
        ·    an act which is intended to cause pain or injury to, or which is intended to result in physical contact which will be insulting or offensive to another, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or
        ·    any act which is intended to place another in fear of immediate physical contact which will be painful, injurious, insulting or offensive, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or
        ·    intentionally points any firearm toward another or displays in a threatening manner any dangerous weapon toward another.
The act is not an assault when the person doing any of the above and the other person are voluntary participants in a sport, social or other activity, not in itself criminal, when the act is a reasonably foreseeable incident of such sport or activity, and does not create an unreasonable risk of serious injury or breach of the peace.
 
Removal from the classroom means a student is sent to the building principal's office.  It is within the discretion of the person in charge of the classroom to remove the student.
 
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 disciplining the student or the building principal.
 
Suspension means; either an in-school suspension, an out-of-school suspension, a restriction from activities or loss of eligibility.  An in-school suspension means the student will attend school but will be temporarily isolated from one or more classes while under supervision.  An in-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days.  An out-of-school suspension means the student is removed from the school environment, which includes school classes and activities.  An out-of-school suspension will not exceed ten days.  A restriction from school activities means a student will attend school and classes and practice but will not participate in school activities.
 
Probation means a student is given a conditional suspension of a penalty for a definite period of time in addition to being reprimanded.  The conditional suspension will mean the student must meet the conditions and terms for the suspension of the penalty.  Failure of the student to meet these conditions and terms will result in immediate reinstatement of the penalty.
 
Expulsion means an action by the board to remove a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, for a period of time set by the board.
 
Following the suspension of a special education student, an informal evaluation of the student's placement will take place.  The Individual Education Program (IEP) is evaluated to determine whether it needs to be changed or modified in response to the behavior that led to the suspension.
 
If a special education student's suspensions, either in or out of school, equal ten days on a cumulative basis, a staffing team will meet to determine whether the IEP is appropriate.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
 
Legal Reference:           No Child Left Behind, Title IV, Sec. 4115, P.L. 107-110 (2002).
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; 282.4, .5; 708.1 (2001).
 
Cross Reference:           501       Student Attendance
502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
504       Student Activities
602.6    Special Education
Previously Code No. 502.1
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  March 1998                  
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003

503.1R1 Student Suspension

STUDENT SUSPENSION
 
Administration Action
 
A.    Probation
        1.   Probation is conditional suspension of a penalty for a set period of time.  Probation may be imposed by the principal for infractions of school rules which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school.
 
        2.   The principal will conduct an investigation of the allegations against the student prior to imposition of probation.  The investigation will include, but not be limited to, written or oral notice to the student of the allegations against the student and an opportunity to respond.  Written notice and reasons for the probation will be sent to the parents.
 
B.     In-School Suspension
 
        1.   In-school suspension is the temporary isolation of a student from one or more classes while under administrative supervision.  In-school suspensions may be imposed by the principal for infractions of school rules which are serious but which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school.
 
        2.   The principal will conduct an investigation of the allegations against the student prior to imposition of an in-school suspension.  The investigation will include, but not be limited to, written or oral notice to the student of the allegations against the student and an opportunity to respond.  In-school suspension will not be imposed for more than ten school days.  Written notice and reasons for the in-school suspension will be sent to the student's parents.
 
C.     Out-of-School Suspension
 
1.     Out-of-school suspension is the removal of a student from the school environment for periods of short duration.  Out-of-school suspension is to be used when other available school resources are unable to constructively remedy student misconduct.
 
2.    A student may be suspended out of school for up to ten school days by a principal for a commission of gross or repeated infractions of school rules, regulations, policy or the law, or when the presence of the student will cause interference with the maintenance of the educational environment or the operation of the school.  The principal may suspend students after conducting an investigation of the charges against the student, giving the student:
 
               a.   Oral or written notice of the allegations against the student and
               b.   The opportunity to respond to those charges.
 
               At the principal's discretion, the student may be allowed to confront witnesses against the student or present witnesses on behalf of the student.
 
        3.    Notice of the out-of-school suspension will be mailed no later than the end of the school day following the suspension to the student's parents and the superintendent.  A reasonable effort is made to personally notify the student's parents and such effort is documented by the person making or attempting to make the contact.  Written notice to the parents will include the circumstances which led to the suspension and a copy of the board policy and rules pertaining to the suspension.
 
D.    Suspensions and Special Education Students
 
        1.    Students who have been identified as special education students may be referred for a review of the student's Individual Education Program (IEP).  The IEP may be revised to include a continuum of intervention strategies and programming to change the behavior.
 
        2.    Students who have not been identified as special education students may be referred for evaluation after the student's suspension to determine whether the student has a disability and is in need of special education.
 
 
Previously Code No. 502.2
 

503.2 Expulsion

EXPULSION
 
Only the board may remove a student from the school environment.  The removal of a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, is an expulsion from school.
 
Students may be expelled for violations of board policy, school rules or the law.  It is within the discretion of the board to discipline a student by using an expulsion for a single offense or for a series of offenses depending on the nature of the offense and the circumstances surrounding the offense.
 
It is within the discretion of the superintendent to recommend to the board the expulsion of a student for disciplinary purposes.  Only the board may take action to expel a student and to readmit the student.  The principal will keep records of expulsions in addition to the board's records.
 
When a student is recommended for expulsion by the board, the student is provided with:
 
        1.       Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion;
        2.       The names of the witnesses and an oral or written report on the facts to which each witness testifies unless the witnesses are students whose names may be released at the discretion of the superintendent;
        3.       An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide either oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student's behalf;
        4.       The right to be represented by counsel; and,
        5.       The results and finding of the board in writing open to the student's inspection.
 
In addition to these procedures, a special education student must be provided with additional procedures.  A determination should be made of whether the student is actually guilty of the misconduct.  A staffing team should determine whether the student's behavior is caused by the student's disability and whether the conduct is the result of inappropriate placement.  Discussions and conclusions of this meeting should be recorded.
 
If the special education student's conduct is not caused by the disability, the student may be expelled or suspended for a long-term period following written notice to the parent and pursuant to the school district's expulsion hearing procedures.  If the misconduct is caused by the disability and a change in placement is recommended, the change must be made pursuant to the placement procedures used by the school district.
 
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 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).
 
Cross Reference:           502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
503       Student Discipline
 
Previously Code No. 502.3
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  March 1998                  
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003

503.5 Corporal Punishment

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
 
Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional physical punishment of a student and is prohibited.  It includes the use of unreasonable or unnecessary physical force or physical contact made with the intent to harm or cause pain.  No employee is prohibited from:
 

  • 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 within a pupil’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 pupil 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.

 
Reasonable physical force should be commensurate with the circumstances of the situation.  The following factors should be considered in using reasonable physical force for the reasons stated in this policy:

  1. The size and physical, mental, and psychological condition of the student;
  2. The nature of the student’s behavior or misconduct provoking the use of physical force;
  3. The instrumentality used applying the physical force.
  4. The extent and nature of resulting injury to the student, if any;
  5. The motivation of the school employee using physical force.

 
Upon request, the student’s parents shall be given an explanation of the reasons for physical force.
 
Previously Code No. 502.6
 
 
Adopted:  January 9, 1989        
 
Reviewed:   March 1998       
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  January 17, 2000
 

503.9 HS Student Good Conduct Rule

STUDENT GOOD CONDUCT RULE
 
A copy of the following rules will be sent home with all students who participate in extracurricular activities at the beginning of the school year.  The student, and parents/guardians, must sign the form indicating the rules have been read and understood.  This form must be returned to the school before the student is allowed to participate. 
 
The Board of Directors of the Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn Community School District offers a variety of voluntary activities designed to enhance the classroom education of its students.  Students who participate in extra-curricular activities serve as ambassadors of the school throughout the calendar year, whether away from or at school.  Students who wish to exercise the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities must conduct themselves in accordance with board policy and must refrain from activities that are illegal, immoral, unhealthy, or highly inappropriate.  Participation in these activities is a privilege, conditioned upon meeting the eligibility criteria established by the board, administration, and individual activity coaches and sponsors.
 
The following activities are covered by the board’s policy and these rules:
 
Athletics, instrumental and vocal music performances, drama productions, speech contests, FFA, National Honor Society, all co-curricular clubs (e.g. art club, Spanish club), all honorary and elected offices (e.g., homecoming king/queen/court, class officer, student government officer or representative), state contests, and performances for cheerleading or any other activity where the student represents the school outside the classroom.  (Activities that are an actual extension of the classroom, are included in student assessment, and are not voluntary, but required as a part of a specific course are included in this policy.  Alternative grading procedure will be available for these students at discretion of teacher.)
 
A student may lose eligibility under the Good conduct Rule for any of the following behaviors:

  • Possession, use, or purchase of tobacco products, regardless of the student’s age;
  • Possession, use, or purchase of alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine
  • Possession, use, or attempted sale/purchase of illegal drugs, or the unauthorized possession, use, purchase, or attempted sale/purchase of otherwise lawful drugs and/or possession of paraphernalia for the use of illegal drugs;
  • Engaging in any act that would be grounds for arrest or citation in the criminal or juvenile court system (excluding minor offenses such as traffic or hunting/fishing violations), regardless of whether the student was cited, arrested, convicted, or adjudicated for the act(s);

 
First Offense:  The student in athletics will be ineligible for all public performances for 1/3 of the current or upcoming competitive season.  The athlete will also be ineligible for pre-season jamborees, scrimmages, etc. but these will not count as part of the 1/3 performance requirement.  (If student self-reports incident within 72 hours to school official, ineligibility will be reduced to 1/5 of the season) The student in other activities that are covered under this policy will be ineligible for all public performances and contests for a period of three weeks with a minimum of one public performance.  The student will be eligible to practice and travel with the team during the period of ineligibility.  
 
Second Offense:  The student in athletics will be ineligible for all public performances for 1/2 of the competitive season.  The athlete will also be ineligible for pre-season jamborees, scrimmages, etc. but these will not count as part of the 1/2 performance requirement.  The student in other activities that are covered under this policy will be ineligible for all public performances, and contests, for a period of nine weeks with a minimum of one public performance. The student will be eligible to practice and travel with the team during the period of ineligibility.
 
Third and Subsequent Offenses:  The student will be ineligible for all public performances in athletics and other activities that are covered under this policy for one calendar year. The student will be eligible to practice and travel with the team during the period of ineligibility.
 
Further Conditions for Eligibility:

  • There will be a two calendar year probationary period.  If a student has no further violations for two years, the student's training rule record will be cleared.
  • If a student violates the good conduct policy at or near the conclusion of a season and the full penalty cannot be served within that season-the balance of the penalty will be served in a "prorated fashion" when the following season of participation commences.  The penalty will "carry over".
  • Coaches and sponsors are responsible for making students aware of the purpose, stipulations, and consequences of the good conduct policy prior to the start of each season.
  • Affected extracurricular activities must be ones in which the student has shown previous expressed interest, and not, in the principal's judgment, activities in which the student is choosing to participate in an attempt to circumvent the rule's consequences.
  • Any student involved in any of the above offenses may request a hearing before a committee consisting of the superintendent, the athletic director, and the sponsor of the activity concerned, and one other faculty member.  If the student desires counsel and his/her parent(s) or legal caretaker(s) may represent him.

 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  January 20, 2003
September 2006
May 2009
June 2009
December 17, 2012          
                                                                                                                                             
Revised:  February 8, 1988
July 17, 1995
May 13, 1996
July 14, 1997
June 11, 2002
June 21, 2004
July 27, 2015

503.9 MS Student Good Conduct Rule

STUDENT GOOD CONDUCT RULE
 
A copy of the following rules will be sent home with all students who participate in extracurricular activities at the beginning of the school year.  A form then must be signed by the student and parents/guardians indicating that the rules have been read and understood.  This form must be returned to the school before the student is allowed to participate.  This policy shall cover all boys and girls school athletics, cheerleading and cheerleading activities, and all clubs and organizations sponsored by the Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn Community School.   Students who violate the code shall accumulate offenses beginning with their first day of   seventh grade and concluding with their last day of participation in middle school extracurricular activities.  In the event a student admits to or is found guilty of a serious misdemeanor or felony offense;  admits to or is found guilty of having, using, or transporting an alcoholic beverage, tobacco or controlled substance contrary to the laws of the state of Iowa, receives an out-of-school suspension for disciplinary reasons; or if the student commits immoral acts or conduct contrary to current district standards, the student shall immediately  serve the following disciplinary action.
 
The student must:
First Offense:   The student will be ineligible for all public performances for one-fifth of the current or upcoming performance schedule (athletes would also be ineligible for pre-season jamborees, scrimmages, etc. but these would not count as part of the 1/5 performance requirement).  The student will be eligible to practice with the team during this period.  The student will be allowed to travel with the team during the period of ineligibility.
 
Second Offense:  The student will be ineligible for all practices and public performances for one-half of the competitive season.  The student will be allowed to practice with the team or group if counseling is sought, arranged, and received within ten calendar days of the offense.  The student will not be allowed to travel with the team or group.
                                                                                                                     
Third and Subsequent Offenses:  The student will be ineligible for all practices and public performances for one calendar year.  The student will be eligible to practice with the team or group if counseling is sought, arranged, and received within ten calendar days of the offense. The student will not be allowed to travel with the team or group.
 
Further Conditions for Eligibility
If a student violates the good conduct policy at or near the conclusion of a season and the full penalty cannot be served within that season, the balance of the penalty will be served in a "pro-rated fashion"  when the following season of participation commences.  The penalty will "carry over".
 
In order to practice or participate in an activity, the student must be in school for the full day of the scheduled activity/practice unless approved by the administration.
 
The coach in charge may decide not to play athletes in a portion of a contest or the complete contest if in the judgment of the coach, the athletes conduct is unworthy of representing the ideals, principles, and standards of the school.  Such conduct may include but not be limited to:  swearing, smoking, not attending practice, not cooperating in a team effort, displaying a poor attitude, or behaving inappropriately in school.
 
Coaches are responsible for making students aware of the purpose, stipulations, and consequences of the good conduct policy prior to the start of each season.
 
Any student involved in any of the above offenses may request a hearing before a committee consisting of the superintendent, the athletic director, and the sponsor of the activity concerned, and one other faculty member.  If the student desires, he/she may be represented by counsel and his/her parent(s) or legal caretaker(s).  
 
Students will not be allowed to participate in athletics until this form is signed by the student and parent or guardian, returned to the coach in charge, and filed in the athletic director's office.
 
ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY
 
To be eligible to compete in extra-curricular activities (all boys and girls athletics, cheerleading and cheerleading activities, all music, dramatic, speech activities, and all clubs and organizations), a student must meet the academic standards of eligibility set up by the Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn Middle School.  The student must do passing work in four academic subjects.  Eligibility will be checked every week.
 
When ineligible, a student may continue to practice; but this will be at the discretion of the activity instructor and principal.
 
In order to practice or participate in any activity, the student must be in school for the full day of the scheduled activity/practice unless approved by the administration.
 
Participants will be required to have an updated physical examination for athletic participation.  Participants will be expected to be good ambassadors of the school and community by displaying appropriate conduct.
 
I have read and understand the above stated Good Conduct Rule.
 
_______________________________________
Student Signature
 
 
_______________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
 
 
_______________________________________
Date
 
 
 
Adopted:  July 14, 1997                       
 
Reviewed:   March 1998
January 20, 2003
September 2006
May 2009 
December 17, 2012

503.11 Fines-Fee-Charges

FINES-FEE-CHARGES
 
The board believes students should respect school district property and assist in its preservation for future use by others.  Students may be assessed fines, charges, or fees for textbooks, school supplies, eye protective devices, ear protective devices, summer school courses, driver education, discretionary transportation, student planners, cleaning and wear and tear of band/choir uniforms, musical instrument rental, activity tickets, software, overdue books/materials, damages to property.
 
The superintendent shall 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 shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 256.7(20); 279.8; 280.10, .11; 282.6; 285.1;         
301.1  (1995)
281 I.A.C. 18
1994 Op. Att’y Gen. 23
1990 Op. Att’y Gen. 79
1982 Op. Att’y Gen. 227
1980 Op. Att’y Gen. 532
 
 
Adopted:  August 12, 1996                   
 
Reviewed:   March 199               
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
 Revised: September 15, 2008
 

503.11R1 Student Fee Waiver and Reduction Procedures

STUDENT FEE WAIVER AND REDUCTION PROCEDURES
 
The board recognizes that while certain fees charged students are appropriate and authorized, certain students and their families are not financially able to pay the fees.  The school district will grant either full waivers, partial waivers or temporary waivers depending upon the circumstances and the students or student’s parents’ ability to meet the financial criteria.
 
A.  Waivers

  1. Full Waivers- a student will be granted a full waiver of fees charged by the school district if the student or student’s parents meet the financial eligibility criteria for free meals under the Child Nutrition program. Family Investment Program, Supplemental Security Income guidelines, or transportation assistance under open enrollment. Students in foster care are also eligible for full waivers.

 

  1. Partial Waivers- a student will be granted a partial waiver of fees charged by the school district if the student or the student’s parents meet the financial eligibility criteria for reduced price meals offered under the Child Nutrition program.  The reduction percentage will be ten (10) percent.

 

  1. Temporary Waivers- a student may be eligible for a temporary waiver of fees charged by the district in the event the student’s parents are facing financial difficulty.  Temporary waivers may be applied for at any time throughout the school year and shall not extend beyond the end of the school year.

 
B.  Application
         Parents or students eligible for a fee waiver shall make an application on the form provided by the    school district.  Applications may be made at any time but must be renewed annually.
 
C.  Confidentiality
         The school district will treat the application and application process as any other student record and student confidentiality and access provisions will be followed.
 
D.  Appeals
         Denials of a waiver may be appealed to the superintendent.
 
E.  Fines or charges assessed for damage or loss to school property are not fees and will not be waived.
 
F.  Notice
         The school district will annually notify parents and students of the waiver.  The following          information will be included in registration and printed in the parent handbook:
 
Students whose families meet the income guidelines for free and reduced price lunch, the Family Investment Program (FIP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), transportation assistance under open enrollment, or who are in foster care are eligible to have their student fees waived or partially waived.  Students whose families are experiencing a temporary financial difficulty may be eligible for a temporary waiver of student fees.  Parents or students who believe they may qualify for temporary financial hardship should complete the waiver form found in the registration material when they register for school.  This waiver does not carry over from year to year and must be completed annually.

H-M-S STUDENT FEE WAIVER APPLICATION

See attached form.

Attachment: 

504 Student Activities

504.1 Student Government

STUDENT GOVERNMENT
 
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 (2001).
 
 
Cross Reference:           502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
504       Student Activities
 
 
Previously Policy No. 503.1
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  March 1998                  
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003
 

504.2 Student Organizations

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
 
Extracurricular activities and student groups are related to the curriculum of the secondary schools in the school district.  These secondary school curriculum-related student organizations may use the school facilities for meetings and other purposes before, after, and during the instructional school day.
 
It is the responsibility of the building 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?
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.  The administrative regulations will include, but not be limited to, stating the process for establishing a curriculum-related student group, assigning a faculty advisor and obtaining board approval for each student group.  The administrative rules will also include the purpose of each group and its relationship to the curriculum.
 
 
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 (1994).
Iowa Code §§ 287.1-.3; 297.9 (2001).
 
Cross Reference:           502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
504       Student Activities
 
 
Adopted:  May 12, 1986                       
 
Reviewed:  March 1998                   
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003
 

504.3 Student Publications

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 the 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 214.1.  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 502.6.
 
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.
 
Legal Reference:           Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
Iowa Code § 280.22 (2001).
 
Cross Reference:           502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
504       Student Activities
 
 
Adopted:  February 8, 1988                  
 
Reviewed:  March 1998                  
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003
 

504.3R1 Student Publications Code

STUDENT PUBLICATIONS CODE
 
A.    Official school publications defined.
An "official school publication" is material produced by students in the journalism, newspaper, yearbook, or writing classes and distributed to students either free or for a fee.
 
B.     Expression in an official school publication.
        1.       No student will express, publish or distribute in an official school publication material which is:
                  a.       obscene;
                  b.       libelous;
                  c.       slanderous; or
                  d.       encourages students to:
 
                            1)     commit unlawful acts;
                            2)     violate school rules;
                            3)     cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient operation of the school or school activity;
                            4)     disrupt or interfere with the education program;
                            5)     interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere; or
                            6)     infringe on the rights of others.
 
        2.       The official school publication is produced under the supervision of a faculty advisor.
 
C.     Responsibilities of students.
 
        1.       Students writing or editing official school publications will assign and edit the news, editorial and feature contents of the official school publications subject to the limitations of the student publications code and the law.
 
        2.       Students will strive to achieve professional standards of accuracy, fairness, objectivity and thoroughness in each and every aspect of official school publications.
 
        3.       Students will strive to achieve professional standards of grammar, usage, punctuation and spelling for clarity and accuracy of official school publications.
 
D.    Responsibilities of faculty advisors.
 
Faculty advisors 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.
 
E.     Liability.
 
Student expression in an official school publication will not be deemed to be an expression of the school district.  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 expression.  The liability, if any, is only to the extent of interference or alteration of the speech or expression.
 
F.     Appeal procedure.
 
        1.       Students who believe they have been unreasonably restricted in their exercise of expression in an official student publication will seek review of the decision through the student grievance procedure, under board policy 502.6.
 
        2.       Persons who believe they have been aggrieved by a student-produced official student publication will file their complaint through the citizen grievance procedure, under board policy 214.1.
 
G.    Time, place and manner of restrictions on official school publications.
 
        1.       Official student publications may be distributed in a reasonable manner on or off school premises.
 
        2.       Distribution in a reasonable manner will not encourage students to:
 
                  a.       commit unlawful acts;
                  b.       violate school rules;
                  c.       cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school activity;
                  d.       disrupt or interfere with the education program;
                  e.       interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere; or
                  f.        infringe on the rights of others.
 
 

504.4 Student Performances

STUDENT PERFORMANCES
 
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 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.6.
 
Cross Reference:           502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
503.9    Good Conduct Rule
504       Student Activities
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                
 
Reviewed: September 2006             
December 17, 2012
 

504.5 Student Fund-Raising

STUDENT FUND-RAISING
 
Students may raise funds or otherwise solicit for school sponsored events.  Fund raising and soliciting shall be in good taste and for a school sponsored event or activity.  Only with the approval of their principal may fund raising and soliciting be done by students as a representative of the school district or on school property.
 
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
Legal References:          Iowa Code  § 280.14 (1987)
 
Cross References:          502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
503       Student Discipline
504       Student Activities
 
Previously Code No.  503.10
 
 
Adopted:  February 8, 1988                  
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                 
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

504.6 Student Activity Program

STUDENT ACTIVITY PROGRAM
 
Participation in school activities is a privilege.  School activities provide the benefits of promoting additional interests and ability in the students during their school years and for their lifetime.
 
Students will have an opportunity to participate in a school activity unless the activity is not offered or the student cannot participate for disciplinary reasons.  If the activity is an intramural or interscholastic athletic activity, students of the opposite sex will have a comparable opportunity for participation.  Comparable opportunity does not guarantee boys and girls will be allowed to play on each other’s teams when there are athletic activities available that will allow both boys and girls to reap the benefits of school activities, which are the promotion of additional interests and abilities in the students.
 
Student activity events must be approved by the superintendent unless they involve unusual travel expense, in which case the board will take action.  The events must not disrupt the education program or other school district operations.
 
A high school student who participates in school sponsored athletics may participate in a non-school sponsored sport during the same season under the following conditions:
 

  1. The non-school sponsored sport is a different sport from the school-sponsored sport in season.

 

  1. Such outside participation shall not conflict with the school sponsored athletic activity.  Both high school head coaches of the sports involved must agree to the athlete’s participation, ie; during track season both the head track coach and the head basketball coach would have to agree that an athlete’s participation in a non-school sponsored basketball league was not in conflict with the school-sponsored program.  In cases where either coach denied participation, a written statement providing the specific reasons for the denial shall be provided to the athlete, the athletic director and to the superintendent.

 

  1. An athlete may appeal a coach’s decision by submitting a written request for reconsideration to the athletic director within three (3) days of the denial.  Such request will specify the reasons the athlete believes the denial should be reversed.  The athletic director and superintendent will review both the rational for the denial and the reasons provided in the athlete’s request for review and shall respond to the athlete in writing within ten (10) days of receiving the request.  If needed, the review panel may also interview the parties involved.  Should either the athletic director or the superintendent be unavailable to review the request within the stated guidelines, the high school principal, the middle school principal or the elementary principal will serve in their absence, in that order.  The panel’s decision is final.

 
Participation in non-school sponsored sports is not restricted during any season in which an athlete chooses not to participate in a school-sponsored sport, nor during any period in which no school-sponsored sport is in session.
 
Violation of this policy shall result in the athlete losing eligibility in the in-season sport for the remainder of that season.
 
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for each school activity.  These regulations shall include, but not be limited to, when physical examination 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.
 
Previously Code No. 503.5
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  January 20, 2003          
September 2006        
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  December 12, 1998
May 17, 1999

504.7 Student Attendance at Events Outside of School & State Competition

STUDENT ATTENDANCE AT EVENTS OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL
AND STATE COMPETITION
 
Events in which students participate during school hours or as representatives of the school at places outside of the school must be sponsored and supervised by professional school personnel.  Rules of behavior shall be the same as for any in-school activity or event.
 
Students/athletes/coaches attending state level athletic competitions will be subject to the following guidelines:
 

  1. The school will provide transportation and lodging for those who have qualified to represent our school at the state level - including bona-fide alternates and coaches of that sport.  Under no circumstances will others ride with or stay with the qualifying group.

 

  1. Those athletes qualifying for state competition, bona-fide alternates, and coaches, will receive approved absences (extenuating circumstances) and district professional days, respectively, for their missed school time.

 

  1. Any non-qualifying team members or other members of the student body wishing to attend a state event that coincides with school time will be discouraged from doing so.  These students will only be allowed to attend with a parent's note, and the absence will be considered as part of their six allowed absences, unless accompanying parent/s to watch a brother or sister perform.

 

  1. In recognition of the fact that attending one of these state tournaments may foster increased interest in the sport, serve as a motivating factor to team members, and an expression of gratitude on the part of coaches to senior team members the school will provide transportation and admission costs, only, according to the following guidelines.

            A.        Attendance at the event will cause no missed school time.
            B.         All varsity athletes are given an opportunity to go, but not required to do so.
            C.         The school will pay for transportation and the athletic department will cover admission costs only, any incidentals such as food, lodging, etc. will need to be covered by the individual students or outside donations.
            D.        The head coach will be required to accompany the group traveling to the event, and if the numbers warrant, a sufficient number of chaperones assigned by the  head coach will be present, as well.
 

  1. Individuals and teams which qualify for state competition, as well as coaches will be allowed to remain at the tournament event until it's conclusion. The only exception to this will be in the case of a first round game being held on Monday or Tuesday. In this case, should our team lose the first round game, coaches and athletes would return home, but would be allowed to return for the weekend session. If the team should win the first round game the decision to stay or return will be left to the administration, with input from the coaches.

 
Legal References:          Iowa Code Section 280.1
 
Previously Code No. 503.7
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  January 20, 2003          
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  June 16, 1997

504.8 Interscholastic Competition

INTERSCHOLASTIC COMPETITION
 
Students may participate in interscholastic competitions that are sponsored or administered by organizations registered with the Iowa Department of Public Instruction.  The governing organizations shall prescribe and implement eligibility requirements for students participating in contests or competitions as prescribed by state guidelines.
 
The Board of Directors of this school district may make any additional good conduct rules not in conflict with those of the governing organization.  The Board may suspend eligibility for violation of school rules established for the orderly governance of the school
 
Legal References:          Iowa Code Sections 280.13;  280.14
 Iowa Administrative Code 670-9.15
Court Cases:  Bunger v. Iowa High School Athletic Association
197 N.W. 2d 555 (IA. 1972)
 
Cross References:          503.9    Student Good Conduct Rule
 
Previously Code No. 503.6
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                  
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

504.9 Student Social Events

STUDENT SOCIAL EVENTS
 
All school-sponsored events shall be under the control and supervision of school personnel.  Approval for an event shall be secured from the principal of the building involved, and the event shall be placed on the school calendar before any public announcement is made.  Hours, behavior, and activities related to school-sponsored events shall be reasonable and proper.
 
Previously Code No. 503.4
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                  
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

504.10 Student Activites Fund

STUDENT ACTIVITIES FUND
 
Collection of any funds for school activities must have the recommendation of the building principal and the approval of the superintendent. Revenue raised by students or from student activities shall be deposited and accounted for in the student activities fund.  This revenue is the property of and shall be under the financial control of the board.  Students may use this revenue for purposes approved by the building principal.
 
Whether such revenue is collected from student contributions, club dues, and special activities or result from admissions to special events or from other fund-raising activities, all funds will be under the jurisdiction of the board and under the specific control of the building principal.  They will be deposited in a designated depository and will be disbursed and accounted for in accordance with instructions issued by the superintendent.
 
It shall be the responsibility of each building secretary to keep student activity accounts up-to-date and complete for their building.
 
Any unencumbered class or activity account balances will automatically revert to the general fund activity fund of the school when a class graduates or an activity is discontinued.
 
Legal References:          Iowa Administrative Code 3.3(3)
Iowa code §§ 11.23; 279.8 (1997)
                                   
Cross References:          504       Student Activities
 
Previously Code No.  505.2
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  January 20, 2003       
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised: November 16, 1998
 

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

505.1 Student Progress Reports and Conferences

STUDENT PROGRESS REPORTS AND CONFERENCES
 
Students shall receive a progress report at the end of each nine-week grading period.  Students, who are doing poorly, and their parents, shall be 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 a minimum of twice a year at all buildings to keep the parents informed.  The conferences at the high school may be scheduled or unscheduled as deemed effective by the site team.
 
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.
 
Legal References:          Iowa Code §§ 256.11,.11A; 280 (1999)
 Iowa Code §§ 256E.1(1)(b)(1)(Supp. 1999)
281.1 A.C. 12.3(6), .3(7), .5(16)
 
Cross References:          505       Student Scholastic Achievement
506       Student Records
505.2    Student Promotion – Retention - Acceleration
 
Previously Code No. 605.1
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:   June 8, 1992 
March 11, 1996
March 20, 2000
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  June 8, 1992
October 18, 1999

505.1E1 Student Records Checklist

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.1E2 Request of Nonparent for Examination or Copies of Student Records

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.1E3 Authorizatioin for Release of Student Records

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.1E4 Request for Hearing on Correction of Student Records

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.1E5 Request for Examination of Student Records

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.1E6 Notification of Transfer of Student Records

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.1E7 Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of a Subpeona

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.1E8 Juvenille Justice Agency Information Sharing Agreement

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.1E9 Annual Notice

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.1R1 Use of Student Records Regulation

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.2 Student Promotion-Retention-Acceleration

STUDENT PROMOTION - RETENTION - ACCELERATION
 
Students will be promoted to the next grade level at the end of each school year based on the student's achievement, age, maturity, emotional stability, and social adjustment.
 
The retention of a student will be determined based upon the judgment of the licensed employee and the principal.  When it becomes evident a student in grades kindergarten through eight may be retained in a grade level for an additional year, the parents will be informed.  It is within the sole discretion of the board to retain students in their current grade level.
 
Students in grades nine through twelve will be informed of the required course work necessary to be promoted each year.  When it becomes evident a student in these grades will be unable to meet the minimum credit requirements for the year, the student and parents will be informed.  It is within the sole discretion of the board to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
 
Students in grades kindergarten through twelve with exceptional talents may, with the permission of the principal and parents, take classes beyond their current grade level.  Enrichment opportunities outside the school district may be allowed when they do not conflict with the school district's graduation requirements.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A; 279.8; 280.3 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(7); 12.5(16).
 
Cross Reference:           501       Student Attendance
505       Student Scholastic Achievement
 
Previously Code No. 605.3
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:   March 11, 1996            
March 20, 2000
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised: February 17, 2003

505.3 Student Honors and Awards

STUDENT HONORS AND AWARDS
 
The school district shall 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 shall be made aware of honors and awards and the action necessary on the part of the student to achieve them.  Students who have not attended the school district for their entire high school education or have not attended an accredited public or private school will not be eligible for honors and awards.
 
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993)
 
 
Cross Reference:           504       Student Activities
505       Student Scholastic Achievement
 
 
Previously Code No. 503.8
 
 
Approved:  November 11, 1985            
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                  
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  July 17, 1995

505.4 Commencement

COMMENCEMENT
 
Students who have successfully completed high school shall be granted diplomas.  Attendance at commencement exercises is optional.  The Board of Directors may exclude students from participation for violation of rules established for the orderly governance of the school.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code Section 280.14
 
 
Cross Reference:           505       Student Scholastic Achievement
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                 
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012

505.5 Graduation Requirements

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
 
Students must have successfully completed the courses required by the board for graduation.   Students who receive a passing grade in a semester course receives one "credit."  A minimum of 54 academic credits and 40 community service hours will be required for graduation. 
 
Academic credits granted for the successful completion of the following courses shall be required to be included in the minimum graduation requirements:
a.  Four units (8 credits) of English.
b.  Four units (8 credits) of social sciences to  include two units (four credits) of American History, and one semester (one credit) of government.
c.  Three Units (six credits) of science.
d.  Three units (six credits) of math.
e.  One-half unit (one credit) of world of work/life skills.
f.  Two units (four credits) of physical education. 
 
Classification By Credits - Student will be classified by earned academic credits.
Classification                                                                Normal Progress
Entering Senior:  at least 40 credits                               42 - 48 credits
Entering Junior:  at least 25 credits                                28 - 32 credits
Entering Soph:  at least 12 credits                                 14 - 16 credits
 
GAINING CREDITS FROM OUTSIDE SOURCES - A student may wish to take high school courses not offered by our school, or may wish to make up failed subjects in order to graduate with his/her graduating class.  All such courses must be scheduled through the guidance department and approved by the principal.
 
Graduation requirements for special education students will be in accordance with the prescribed course of study as described in their Individualized Education Program (IEP).  Each student's IEP will include a statement of the projected date of graduation at least 18 months in advance of the projected date and the criteria to be used in determining whether graduation will occur.  Prior to the special education student's graduation, the IEP team will determine whether the graduation criteria have been met.
 
ALTERNATIVE HIGH SCHOOL – Students must earn the following credits to complete the graduation requirements for the alternative high school:
 
                  English           7 credits           Mathematics       4 credits
                  Science           4 credits           US History          2 credits
                  Government   1 credit             Elective Classes   18 credits                                                                                                         
 
(Notes:  The educational standards and requirements set by law and the Iowa Department of Education will be strictly observed.  There is a need to differentiate between and define "Unit" and "Credit".  A Unit is granted for a course that is taught for at least 200 minutes per week for 36 weeks, or for a course that is taught for the equivalent of 120 hours of instruction, or is taught as a part of an innovative program filed as prescribed in sub-rule 12.1 (6).  One-half Unit is equivalent to one Credit.)
 
 
Legal Reference:      Iowa Code 256.11,279.8, 280.3
670 Iowa Admin. Code 3.2, 3.3 (12)
670 Iowa Admin. Code 4.2, 4.3 (7), 4.5 (new standards)
 
Previously Code No. 605.4
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  November 14, 1988       
April, 2006     
September 2006  
December 17, 2012                                          
 
Revised: January 9, 1989
February 17, 2003
April 24, 2006
March 19, 2007
January 28, 2008
July 27, 2015
 

505.6 Citizenship Credit Requirement

CITIZENSHIP CREDIT REQUIREMENT
 
Consistent with this school district’s mission, “... We exist primarily for the purpose of developing the intellectual, physical, creative, cultural, CIVIC and SOCIAL (emphasis added) capabilities of our students.  Through our collective efforts, all students should be prepared to participate and meet the challenges of being successful citizens”, all students graduating from HMS High School must have earned a Citizenship Credit.  This credit can be obtained by the accumulation of a minimum of 40 Citizenship Points. Points can be earned in the following manners:
 
1.      Each clock hour a student expends in performing uncompensated  “service for others”
(See attached for rules and examples)      1 point
 
2.      Each school year a student meets all of these criteria      5 points
a.  No suspensions (in-school, out-of-school, from activities, from bus)
b.  No unexcused absences
c.  No violations of Student Good Conduct Rule
d.  No more than 3 tardies
 
3.      Each year a student maintains at least a 2.5 GPA      1 point
 
4.      Each semester a student receives “On-A-Roll” recognition      1/2 point
 
The transcripts of students who exceed the 40 point minimum requirement by 20 points or more will carry the notation “Citizenship Credit With Honors” provided that they have satisfied all four criteria of item 2 above during each of grades 10, 11, 12.  All other transcripts will carry the notation “Citizenship Credit - Satisfactory.”
 
Failure to meet at least the minimum point/credit requirement will result in a delay of graduation until such time that the requirement has been met.
 
 
Previously Code No. 605.41
 
 
Adopted:  April 13, 1992                      
 
Reviewed:   March 11, 1996             
March 20, 2000
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

505.6E1 Citizenship Credit Examples

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.6R1 Citizenship Credit Rules

See attachment.

Attachment: 

505.7 Early Graduation

EARLY GRADUATION
 
Generally, students will be required to complete the necessary course work and graduate from high school at the end of grade twelve.  Students may graduate prior to this time if they meet the minimum graduation requirements stated in board policy.
 
A student who graduates early will no longer be considered a student and will become an alumnus of the school district.  However, the student who graduates early may participate in commencement exercises.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.2; .3(7); .5.
 
Cross Reference:           505       Student Scholastic Achievement
 
 
Previously part of Code No. 605.4
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:   March 11, 1996            
March 20, 2000                                                                                                       
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised: February 10, 1997
February 17, 2003

505.8 Testing Program

TESTING PROGRAM
 
A Comprehensive testing program shall be established and maintained to evaluate the education program of the school district and to assist in providing guidance or counseling services to students and their families.
 
No student shall be required, as part of a program funded by the United States Department of Education, to submit, without prior written consent from the students’ parent, to surveys, analysis or evaluation which reveals information concerning:
 

  • political affiliations;

 

  • mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the student or the student’s family;

 

  • sex behavior and attitudes;

 

  • illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating and demeaning behavior;

 

  • critical appraisals of other individuals with whom students have close family relationships;

 

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

 

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

 

  • income, but not including income required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program.

 
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
It shall be the responsibility of the board to review and approve the evaluation and testing program.
 
 
Legal References:          Goals 2000:  Educate America Act, Pub. L. No. 103-227, 108
Stat. 125  (1994)
20 U.S.C. § 1232h  (1988).
 Iowa Code §§ 280.3; 256B; 282.1, .3, .6 (1993)
281  I.A.C. 12.5 (13), .5(21).
 
 
Cross References:          505       Student Scholastic Achievement
506       Student Records
507       Student Health and Well-Being
 
Previously Code No.  605.2
 
Approved: May 12, 1986                      
 
Reviewed:   March 11, 1996             
March 20, 2000
September, 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised: October 10, 1994
February 17, 2003

505.9 Parental Involvement

Parental Involvement
 
Parental involvement is an important component in a student’s success in school.  The board encourages parents to become involved in their child’s education to ensure the child’s academic success.  The board will:
(In each of the following six items, the board must describe in policy how it will accomplish each of the items.)
(1)     how the board will involve parents in the development of the Title I plan, the process for school review of the plan and the process for improvement;
(2)     how the board will provide the coordination, technical assistance and other support necessary to assist participating schools in planning and implementing effective parent involvement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance;
(3)     build the schools’ and parents’ capacity for strong parental involvement;
(4)     coordinate and integrate parental involvement strategies under Title I with other programs such as Head Start, Reading First, etc.;
(5)     conduct with the involvement of parents, an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness of the parental involvement 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, minorities, parents with disabilities and parents with low literacy) and use the findings of the evaluation to design strategies for more effective parental involvement and to revise, as necessary, the parental involvement policies; and
(6)     involve parents in Title I activities.
 
The board will review this policy annually.  The superintendent is responsible for notifying parents of this policy annually or within a reasonable time after it has been amended during the school year.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy
 
 
Legal References:          No Child Left Behind, Title I, Sec. 1118, P.L. 107-110.
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                
 
Reviewed:  September 2006              
December 17, 2012

506 Student Records

506.1 Student Records Access

STUDENT RECORDS ACCESS
 
The board recognizes the importance of maintaining student records and preserving their confidentiality.  Student records containing personally identifiable information are kept confidential at collection, storage, disclosure and destruction stages.  The board secretary is the custodian of student records.  Student records may be maintained in the central administration office or administrative office of the student's attendance center.  Student is defined as an enrolled individual, PK-12 including children in school district sponsored child-care programs. 
 
Parents and eligible students will have access to the student's records during the regular business hours of the school district.  An eligible student is a student who has reached eighteen years of age or is attending an institution of postsecondary education at the post high school level.  Parents of an eligible student are provided access to the student records only with the written permission of the eligible student unless the eligible student is defined as a dependent by the Internal Revenue Code.  In that case, the parents may be provided access without the written permission of the student.  A representative of the parents or eligible student, who has received written permission from the parents or eligible student, may inspect and review a special education student's records.  Parents, other than parents of an eligible student, may be denied access to a student's records if the school district has a court order stating such or when the district has been advised under the appropriate laws that the parents may not access the student records.  Parents may inspect an instrument used for the purpose of collection of student personal information prior to the instrument’s use.
 
A student record may contain information on more than one student.  Parents will have the right to access the information relating to their student or to be informed of the information.  Eligible students will also have the right to access the information relating to themselves, or be informed of the information.
 
Parents and eligible students will have a right to access the student's records upon request without unnecessary delay and in no instance more than forty-five calendar days after the request is made.  Parents, an eligible student or an authorized representative of the parents will have the right to access the student's records prior to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting or hearing.
 
Copies of student records will be provided if failure to do so would effectively prevent the parents or student from exercising the right to access the student records.  Fees for copies of the records are waived if it would prevent the parents or student from accessing the records.  A fee may not be charged to search or retrieve information from student records. 
 
Upon the request of parents or an eligible student, the school district will provide an explanation and interpretation of the student records and a list of the types and locations of education records collected, maintained or used by the school district.
 
If the parents or an eligible student believes the information in the student records is inaccurate, misleading or violates the privacy or other rights of the student, the parents or an eligible student may request that the school district amend the student records.  The school district will decide whether to amend the student records within a reasonable time after receipt of the request.  If the school district determines an amendment is made to the student record, the school district will make the amendment and inform the parents or the eligible student of the decision in writing.
 
If the school district determines that amendment of the student's record is not appropriate, it will inform the parents or the eligible student of their right to a hearing before the hearing officer provided by the school district.
 
If the parents' and the eligible student's request to amend the student record is further denied following the hearing, the parents or the eligible student are informed that they have a right to place an explanatory letter in the student record commenting on the school district's decision or setting forth the reasoning for disagreeing with the school district.  Additions to the student's records will become a part of the student record and be maintained like other student records.  If the school district discloses the student records, the explanation by the parents will also be disclosed.
 
Student records may be disclosed in limited circumstances without parental or eligible student's written permission.  This disclosure is made on the condition that the student record will not be disclosed to a third party without the written permission of the parents or the eligible student.  This disclosure may be made to the following individuals or under the following circumstances:
 

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

 
The superintendent will keep a list of the individuals and their positions who are authorized to view a special education student's records without the permission of the parents or the eligible student.  Individuals not listed are not allowed access without parental or an eligible student's written permission.  This list must be current and available for public inspection and updated as changes occur.
 
The superintendent will also keep a list of individuals, agencies and organizations which have requested or obtained access to a student's records, the date access was given and their legitimate educational interest or purpose for which they were authorized to view the records.  The superintendent, however, does not need to keep a list of the parents, authorized educational employees, officers and agencies of the school district who have accessed the student’s records.  This list for a student record may be accessed by the parents, the eligible student and the custodian of student records. 
 
Permanent student records, including a student's name, address, phone number, grades, attendance record, classes attended, grade level completed and year completed may be maintained without time limitation.  Permanent student records will be kept in a fire-safe vault.
 
When personally identifiable information, other than permanent student records, no longer needs to be maintained by the school district to provide educational services to a special education student, the parents or eligible student are notified.  This notice is normally given after a student graduates or otherwise leaves the school district.  If the parents or eligible student request that the personally identifiable information be destroyed, the school district will destroy the records.  Prior to the destruction of the records, the school district must inform the parents or eligible student the records may be needed by the parents or eligible student for social security benefits or other purposes. 
 
The school district will cooperate with the juvenile justice system in sharing information contained in permanent student records regarding students who have become involved with the juvenile justice system.  The school district will enter into an interagency agreement with the juvenile justice agencies (agencies) involved.
 
The purpose of the agreement is to allow for the sharing of information prior to a student's adjudication in order to promote and collaborate between the school district and the agencies to improve school safety, reduce alcohol and illegal drug use, reduce truancy, reduce in-school and out-of-school suspensions, and to support alternatives to in-school and out-of-school suspensions and expulsions which provide structured and well supervised educational programs supplemented by coordinated and appropriate services designed to correct behaviors that lead to truancy, suspension, and expulsions and to support students in successfully completing their education.
 
The school district may share any information with the agencies contained in a student's permanent record, which is directly related to the juvenile justice system's ability to effectively serve the student.  Prior to adjudication information contained in the permanent record may be disclosed by the school district to the parties without parental consent or court order.  Information contained in a student's permanent record may be disclosed by the school district to the agencies after adjudication only with parental consent or a court order.  Information shared pursuant to the agreement is used solely for determining the programs and services appropriate to the needs of the student or student's family or coordinating the delivery of programs and services to the student or student's family. 
 
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.
 
Information shared under the agreement is not admissible in any court proceedings, which take place prior to a disposition hearing, unless written consent is obtained from a student's parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian.  The school district may discontinue information sharing with an agency if the school district determines that the agency has violated the intent or letter of the agreement.
 
Agencies will contact the principal of the attendance center where the student is currently or was enrolled.  The principal will then forward copies of the records within 10 business days of the request.
 
The school district will provide training or instruction to employees about parents' and eligible students' rights under this policy.  Employees will also be informed about the procedures for carrying out this policy. 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to annually notify parents and eligible students of their right to inspect and review the student's records.  The notice is given in a parents' or eligible student's native language.  Should the school district collect personal information from students for the purposes of marketing or selling that information, the school district will annually notify parents of such activity.
 
The notice will include a statement that the parents have a right to file a complaint alleging the school district failed to comply with this policy.  Complaints are forwarded to Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, Washington, DC. 20202-4605.
 
 
Legal Reference:           No Child Left Behind, Title IX, Sec. 9528, P.L.107-110 (2002).
USA Patriot Act, Sec. 507, P.L. 107-56. (2001).
20 U.S.C. § 1232g, 1415 (2010).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 99, 300, .610 et seq. (2010).
Iowa Code §§ 22; 279.9B, 280.24, .25, 622.10 (2011).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(4); 41; .610 et seq.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720, 825.
 
           
Cross Reference:           501       Student Attendance
505       Student Scholastic Achievement
506       Student Records
507       Student Health and Well-Being
603.3    Special Education
708       Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records
901       Public Examination of School District Records
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985      
 
Reviewed:  November 18, 2002        
September, 2006                                        
December 17, 2012                       
 
Revised:  December 8, 1997
March 12, 2001
February 17, 2003
June 18, 2012
 
 
 

506.2 Student Directory Information

STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION
 
Student directory information is designed to be used internally within the school district.  Directory information is defined in the annual notice.  It may include the student's name, grade level, enrollment status, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, degrees and awards received, photograph and other likeness.  Student is defined as an enrolled individual, PK-12 including children in school district sponsored child-care programs. 
 
Prior to developing a student directory or to giving general information to the public, parents (including parents of students open enrolled out of the school district and parents of children home schooled in the school district) will be given notice annually of the intent to develop a directory or to give out general information and have the opportunity to deny the inclusion of their child's information in the directory or in the general information about the students.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to provide notice and to determine the method of notice that will inform parents.
 
 
Legal Reference:           20 U.S.C. § 1232g (2010).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 99, 300.560 - .574 (2010).
Iowa Code § 22; 622.10 (2011).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(4); 41.123.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720.
 
 
Cross Reference:           504       Student Activities
506       Student Records
901       Public Examination of School District Records
902.4    Live Broadcast or videotaping
 
Approved:  December 8, 1997
 
Reviewed:  November 18, 2002
January 20, 2003
September, 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  March 12, 2001
June 18, 2012

506.2R1 Use of Directory Information

See attachment.

Attachment: 

506.3 Student Photographs

STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHS
 
The board will permit student "portrait" photographs to be taken on school premises by a commercial photographer as a service to the students and their families.
 
Parents will be notified prior to the taking of pictures by a commercial photographer for student "portraits."  In no case will students be required to have their picture taken or be pressured to purchase pictures.
 
Students or commercial photographers may take pictures of students upon consent for such things as the yearbook or student newspaper.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative rules regarding student photographs.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code § 279.8 (2001).
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 114.
 
Cross Reference:           506       Student Records
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                
 
Reviewed: September 2006             
December 17, 2012
 

506.4 Student Library Circulation Records

STUDENT LIBRARY CIRCULATION RECORDS
 
Student library circulation records are designed to be used internally to assist in the orderly administration of the school district libraries and media center.  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 school 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 is charged.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the school librarian, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
 
 
Legal Reference:           20 U.S.C. § 1232g (1994).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 99 (1999).
Iowa Code §§ 22; 622.10 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720, 825.
 
 
Cross Reference:           506       Student Records
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                
 
Reviewed: September 2006             
December 17, 2012
 

506.5 Special Education Records

SPECIAL EDUCATION RECORDS
 
Accurate special education records shall be maintained for all students attending Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn School district.  Records of a student shall be reasonably accessible to parents and/or legal guardian of that student or to the student if of legal age or older.  These records will be made available to parents without unnecessary delay and before any IEP meeting or hearing, and in no case more that 45 days after the request is made.  Students records shall remain confidential.
 
Procedures Relating to Confidential Records:
 
1.   Parents and eligible students are informed of their rights in regard to records through written materials given annually at review or if not in attendance through the mail.
 
2.   Cumulative and confidential records are maintained under the direction of the building administrator.
 
3.   No material disclosing personally identifiable information will be released without parent’s or illegible student’s consent and building administrator’s approval.
 
4.   A log shall be maintained to record verified disclosures, including the name of the party, date of access, and the purpose.
 
5.   A current access list shall be posted and maintained for public inspection.  This list shall include the names and positions of employees who may have access to personally identifiable information.
 
6.   Provide to parents, on request, a list of the types and locations of educational records collected, maintained or used.
 
 
Procedures Relating to Inspection of Student Records:
 
1.   All records shall be kept in a locked file.
 
2.   Personals not on the access list who wish to review files will be referred to the building administrator.
 
3.   If the building administrator is not available make every effort to contact or arrange for a time that the administrator can be there.
 
4.   If the administrator gives permission to proceed with review of records the following procedures must be followed:
            a.   Check for proper identification
            b.   Verify that permission has been granted by appropriate person (Parent, Student, etc.)
            c.   You personally sign in the viewer as signatures on the sign in sheet are confidential.
            d.   Provide a place for this person to review files (supervise if possible).
 
Procedures for Amending Student Records:
 
1.   The district will respond to request for explanations and interpretations of records.
 
2.   Parents may challenge information in the educational records.
 
3.   Parents or eligible students have the right to request amendment of records through a records hearing.  Records will be amended if they are found to be inaccurate, misleading, or violating the privacy or other rights of the child.
 
4.   Parents are allowed to place qualifying statements in the record (if the district decides not to amend the records) these statements will remain as part of the record.
 
 
Procedures for Destruction of Student Records:
 
1.   The district will inform parents when personally identifiable information is no longer needed to provide educational services to the child.  (Parents have a right to keep the material or destroy it.)
 
2.   The district will destroy this information at parents request, if it is no longer needed to provide educational services to the child.  (However, a permanent record of the student’s name, address, phone number, grades, attendance record, classes attended, grade level completed, and year completed may be maintained without time limitation.)  Under 300.573, personally identifiable information may be destroyed.  In informing parents about their rights, the agency should remind them that the records may be needed by the child or parents for social security benefits or other purposes.
 
 
Previously Code No. 505.15
 
 
Adopted:  February 8, 1988                  
 
Reviewed:   March 1998                  
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 

507 Student Health & Well-Being

507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates

STUDENT HEALTH AND IMMUNIZATION CERTIFICATES
 
Students desiring to participate in athletic activities or enrolling in kindergarten or first grade in the school district will have a physical examination by a licensed physician and provide proof of such an examination to the school district.  A physical examination and proof of such an examination may be required by the administration for students in other grades enrolling for the first time in the school district.
 
A certificate of health stating the results of a physical examination and signed by the physician is on file at the attendance center.  Each student will submit an up-to-date certificate of health upon the request of the superintendent.  Failure to provide this information may be grounds for disciplinary action.
 
Students enrolling for the first time in the school district will also submit a certificate of immunization against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, rubeola, rubella, and other immunizations required by law.  The student may be admitted conditionally to the attendance center if the student has not yet completed the immunization process but is in the process of doing so.  Failure to meet the immunization requirement will be grounds for suspension, expulsion or denial of admission.  Upon recommendation of the Iowa Department of Education and Iowa Department of Public Health, students entering the district for the first time may be required to pass a TB test prior to admission.  The district may conduct TB tests of current students.
 
Exemptions from the immunization requirement in this policy will be allowed only for medical or religious reasons recognized under the law.  The student must provide a valid Iowa State Department of Health Certificate of Immunization Exemption to be exempt from this policy.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 280.13 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 33.5.
 641 I.A.C. 7.
 
 
Cross Reference:           405.7    Child Abuse Reporting by Certified Personnel
501       Student Attendance
507       Student Health and Well-Being
 
 
Adopted:  January 12, 1987                  
 
Reviewed:  March 1998                   
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003
 

507.2 Administration of Medication to Students

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION TO STUDENTS
 
Students may be required to take medication during the school day.  Medication is administered by the school secretary, or in the secretary's absence, by a person who has successfully completed an administration of medication course reviewed by the Board of Pharmacy Examiners.  The course is conducted by a registered nurse or licensed pharmacist.  A record of course completion will be maintained by the school district.  Students who have demonstrated competence in administering their own medication may self-administer their medication.
 
Medication will not be administered without written authorization that is signed and dated from the parent, and the medication must be in the original container which is labeled by the pharmacy or the manufacturer with the name of the child, name of the medication, the time of the day which it is to be given, the dosage and the duration.  Written authorization will also be secured when the parent requests student co-administration of medication when competency is demonstrated.  When administration of the medication requires ongoing professional health judgment, an individual health plan will be developed by the licensed health personnel with the student and the student's parents.  A written record of the administration of medication procedure must be kept for each child receiving medication including the date; student's name; prescriber or person authorizing the administration; the medication and its dosage; the name, signature and title of the person administering the medication; and the time and method of administration and any unusual circumstances, actions or omissions.  Administration of medication records are kept confidential.
 
The school secretary, or in the secretary's absence, the person who has successfully completed an administration of medication course reviewed by the Iowa Board of Pharmacy Examiners will have access to the medication which will be kept in a secured area.  Students may carry medication only with the approval of the parents and building principal of the student's attendance center.  Emergency protocol for medication-related reactions will be in place.
 
The superintendent is responsible, in conjunction with the principal, for developing rules and regulations governing the administration of medication, prescription and nonprescription, including emergency protocols, to students and for ensuring persons administering medication have taken the prescribed course and periodically review the prescribed course.  Annually, each student is provided with the requirements for administration of medication at school.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code ch. 124, 152, 155A (2001).
281 I.A.C. 41.12(6)(f), (11).
657 I.A.C. 1.1(3), 10.61(1).
 
 
Cross Reference:           506       Student Records
507       Student Health and Well-Being
602.6    Special Education
604.2    Health Services
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                
 
Reviewed: September 2006             
December 17, 2012

507.2E2 Medication Recording Form

See attachment.

Attachment: 

507.E21 Authorization and Permission for Administration of Medication

See attachment.

Attachment: 

507.3 Communicable Dieseases - Students

COMMUNICABLE DISEASES - STUDENTS
 
Students with a communicable disease will be allowed to attend school provided their presence does not create a substantial risk of illness or transmission to other students or employees.  The term "communicable disease" shall 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 shall be included in the school district's bloodborne pathogens exposure control plan.  The procedures shall 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 shall be reviewed annually by the superintendent.
 
The health risk to immunodepressed students shall be 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 shall be determined on a case-by-case basis by the student's personal physician, a physician chosen by the school district or public health officials.
 
A student shall notify the superintendent when the student learns the student has a communicable disease.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, when the superintendent, upon investigation, has knowledge that a reportable communicable disease is present, to notify the Iowa Department of Public Health.  Health data of a student is confidential and it shall not be disclosed to third parties.
 
A student who is at school and who has a communicable disease which creates a substantial risk of harm to other students, employees, or others at school shall report the condition to the Superintendent any time the student is aware that the disease actively creates such risk.
 
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations stating the procedures for dealing with students with a communicable disease.
 
 
Legal References:          School Board of Nassau County v. Arline, 480 U.S. 273 (1987)
29 U.S.C. §§ 701 et seq. (1988)
45 C.F.R. Pt. 84.3 (1993)
Iowa Code ch. 139 (1997)
641 I.A.C. 1.2-.5, 7
 
Cross References:          402.11  Communicable Diseases - Employees
506       Student Records
507       Student Health and Well-Being
 
Previously Code No. 504.2
 
Adopted:  January12, 1987                   
 
Reviewed:   March 1998               
January 20, 2003
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  November 16, 1998

507.3E1 Communicable Disease Chart

See attachment.

Attachment: 

507.3E2 Reportable Infectious Diseases

See attachment.

Attachment: 

507.4 Student Illness or Injury at School

STUDENT ILLNESS OR INJURY AT SCHOOL
 
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 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.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code § 613.17 (2001).
 
 
Cross Reference:           507       Student Health and Well-Being
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  March 1998            
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003
 

507.5 Emergency Plans and Drills

EMERGENCY PLANS AND DRILLS
 
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 review with employees.  Employees will participate in emergency drills.  Licensed employees are responsible for instructing the proper techniques to be followed in the drill.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code § 100.31 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 41.25(3).
 
 
Cross Reference:           507       Student Health and Well-Being
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  March 1998                  
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003

507.6 Student Insurance

STUDENT INSURANCE
 
Students will have the opportunity to participate in the health and accident insurance plan selected by the school district.  The cost of the health and accident insurance program is borne by the student.  Participation in the insurance health and accident plan is not a contract with the school district, but rather, a contract between the insurance company and the student.
 
Students participating in intramural or extracurricular athletics are required to have health and accident insurance.  The student will bring written proof of insurance or participate in the health and accident insurance program selected by the school district.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code § 279.8 (2001).
 
 
Cross Reference:           504       Student Activities
507       Student Health and Well-Being
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  March 1998                  
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003

507.7 Custody and Parental Rights

CUSTODY AND PARENTAL RIGHTS
 
Disagreements between family members are not the responsibility of the school district.  The school district will not take the "side" of one family member over another in a disagreement about custody or parental rights.  Court orders that have been issued are followed by the school district.  It is the responsibility of the person requesting an action by the school district to inform and provide the school district the court order allowing such action.
 
This policy does not prohibit an employee from listening to a student's problems and concerns.
 
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure employees remain neutral in a disagreement about custody and parental rights.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 232.67, .70, .73, .75; 235A; 279.8; 710.6 (2001).
441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.
 
 
Cross Reference:           506       Student Records
507       Student Health and Well-Being
 
 
Approved:  November 11, 1985            
 
Reviewed:  March 1998            
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003

507.8 Student Special Health Services

STUDENT SPECIAL HEALTH SERVICES
 
The board recognizes that some special education students need special health services during the school day.  These students will receive special health services in conjunction with their individualized education program. 
 
The superintendent, in conjunction with licensed health personnel, will establish administrative regulations for the implementation of this policy.
 
 
Legal Reference:           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. (1994).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 300 et seq. (1996).
Iowa Code §§ 256.11(7); 256B; 273.2, .5, .9(2)-(3); 280.8 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(7), 41.96
 
Cross Reference:           502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
506       Student Records
602.6    Special Education
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                
 
Reviewed: September 2006             
December 17, 2012
 

507.8R1 Special Health Services Regulation

SPECIAL HEALTH SERVICES REGULATION
 
Some students who require special education need special health services in order to participate in the educational program.  These students will receive special health services in accordance with their individualized educational program.
 
A.    Definitions
 
"Assignment and delegation" - occurs when licensed health personnel, in collaboration with the education team, determine the special health services to be provided and the qualifications of individuals performing the health services.  Primary consideration is given to the recommendation of the licensed health personnel.  Each designation considers the student's special health service.  The rationale for the designation is documented.  If the designation decision of the team differs from the licensed health professional, team members may file a dissenting opinion.
 
"Co-administration" - the eligible student's participation in the planning, management and implementation of the student's special health service and demonstration of proficiency to licensed health personnel.
 
"Educational program" - includes all school curricular programs and activities both on and off school grounds.
 
"Education team" - may include the eligible student, the student's parent, administrator, teacher, licensed health personnel, and others involved in the student's educational program.
 
"Health assessment" - health data collection, observation, analysis, and interpretation relating to the eligible student's educational program.
 
"Health instruction" - education by licensed health personnel to prepare qualified designated personnel to deliver and perform special health services contained in the eligible student's health plan.  Documentation of education and periodic updates are on file at school.
 
"Individual health plan" - the confidential, written, preplanned and ongoing special health service in the educational program.  It includes assessment, planning, implementation, documentation, evaluation and a plan for emergencies.  The plan is updated as needed and at least annually.  Licensed health personnel develop this written plan with the education team.
 
"Licensed health personnel" - includes licensed registered nurse, licensed physician, and other licensed health personnel legally authorized to provide special health services and medications.
 
"Prescriber" - licensed health personnel legally authorized to prescribe special health services and medications.
 
"Qualified designated personnel" - persons instructed, supervised and competent in implementing the eligible student's health plan.
 
"Special health services" - includes, but is not limited to, services for eligible students whose health status (stable or unstable) requires:
                  ·        Interpretation or intervention,
                  ·        Administration of health procedures and health care, or
                  ·        Use of a health device to compensate for the reduction or loss of a body function.
 
"Supervision" - the assessment, delegation, evaluation and documentation of special health services by licensed health personnel.  Levels of supervision include situations in which licensed health personnel are:
 
                  ·        physically present.
                  ·        available at the same site.
                  ·        available on call.
 
 
B.     Licensed health personnel will provide special health services under the auspices of the school.  Duties of the licensed personnel include the duty to:
 
        ·        Participate as a member of the education team.
        ·        Provide the health assessment.
        ·        Plan, implement and evaluate the written individual health plan.
        ·        Plan, implement and evaluate special emergency health services.
        ·        Serve as liaison and encourage participation and communication with health service agencies and individuals providing health care.
        ·        Provide health consultation, counseling and instruction with the eligible student, the student's parent and the staff in cooperation and conjunction with the prescriber.
        ·        Maintain a record of special health services.  The documentation includes the eligible student's name, special health service, prescriber or person authorizing, date and time, signature and title of the person providing the special health service and any unusual circumstances in the provision of such services.
        ·        Report unusual circumstances to the parent, school administration, and prescriber.
        ·        Assign and delegate to, instruct, provide technical assistance and supervise qualified designated personnel.
        ·        Update knowledge and skills to meet special health service needs.
 
C.     Prior to the provision of special health services the following will be on file:
 
        ·        Written statement by the prescriber detailing the specific method and schedule of the special health service, when indicated.
        ·        Written statement by the student's parent requesting the provision of the special health service.
        ·        Written report of the preplanning staffing or meeting of the education team.
        ·        Written individual health plan available in the health record and integrated into the IEP or IFSP.
 
D.    Licensed health personnel, in collaboration with the education team, will determine the special health services to be provided and the qualifications of individuals performing the special health services.  The documented rationale will include the following:
 
        ·        Analysis and interpretation of the special health service needs, health status stability, complexity of the service, predictability of the service outcome and risk of improperly performed service.
        ·        Determination that the special health service, task, procedure or function is part of the person's job description.
        ·        Determination of the assignment and delegation based on the student's needs.
        ·        Review of the designated person's competency.
        ·        Determination of initial and ongoing level of supervision required to ensure quality services.
 
E.     Licensed health personnel will supervise the special health services, define the level of supervision and document the supervision.
 
F.     Licensed health personnel will instruct qualified designated personnel to deliver and perform special health services contained in the eligible individual health plan.  Documentation of instruction and periodic updates are on file at school.
 
G.    Parents will provide the usual equipment, supplies and necessary maintenance for such.  The equipment is stored in a secure area.  The personnel responsible for the equipment are designated in the individual health plan.  The individual health plan will designate the role of the school, parents, and others in the provision, supply, storage and maintenance of necessary equipment.
 
 
 
 

507.9 Emergency School Closings

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGS
 
The superintendent has the authority to close schools, dismiss early, or keep school open beyond the regular school day in case of extreme weather or other emergency conditions.  As soon as possible after the decision has been made, the superintendent shall arrange to announce the closing via the news media.
 
Make-up days will be scheduled so that students will attend school for the minimum number of school days per year prescribed by statute, Iowa Department of Public Instruction rules, and Board policy.  On any day when the school is forced to close early, the portion of that day that school was in session shall be defined as a day of school, except in the case of a false bomb report.  In such cases each missed day shall be made up.
 
 
Transportation in Poor Weather Conditions
 
Buses will not operate when weather conditions (fog, rain, snow, storm) make it unsafe to do so.  Because weather conditions may vary around the district and may change quickly, the best judgment will be used that is possible with the information available.
 
The final decision in declaring conditions "unsafe" will be made by the superintendent or his/her designee.
 
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code Sections 279.8;  279.10;  321.372(1)
 
 
Cross Reference:           702.8    Special Convenience Bus Stops
 
 
Previously Code No. 504.7
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  January 20, 2003          
September 2006
December 17, 2012

507.10 Wellness Policy

WELLNESS POLICY

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

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

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

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

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

Specific Wellness Goals

  • specific goals for nutrition education and promotion, (see Appendix A)
  • physical activity, (see Appendix B)
  • other school-based activities that are designed to promote student wellness, (see Appendix C)

 

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

 

The board will monitor and evaluate this policy through a method developed and implemented by the wellness policy committee, administered by the committees designee with results reported annually to the school board.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, 42 U.S.C. 1751 et seq. (2005)

                                    Child Nutrition Act of 1966, 42 U.S.C. 1771 et seq., 

Iowa Code 256.7(29), 256.11(6)

281 IAC 12.5(19), 12.5(20), 58.11

 

 

Cross Reference:         504.5   Student Fund Raising

                                    504.6   Student Activity Program

                                    710      School Food Services

 

 

 

Approved:  June 19, 2006      

Reviewed:  September, 2006
                   December 17, 2012
                   February 13, 2017
                   March 13, 2017

Revised:  June 18, 2012
                February 13, 2017
                March 13, 2017

 

Appendix A

 

Nutrition Education and Promotion

 

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

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

 

Appendix B

Physical Activity

Physical Activity

The district will provide at least thirty (30) minutes of physical activity per day for students in kindergarten through fourth grade.  The district will provide at least one hundred twenty (120) minutes of physical activity per week for students in fifth through twelfth grade.

 

Daily Physical Education

The school district will provide physical education that:

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

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

 

Daily Recess

Elementary schools should provide recess for students that:

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

                                

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

 

 

Appendix C

 

Other School-Based Activities that Promote Student Wellness

 

Integrating Physical Activity into Classroom Settings

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

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

 

Optional Issues

 

Communication with Parents

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

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

 

Food Marketing in Schools

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

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

 

Other School-Based Activities that Promote Student Wellness

 

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

 

Staff Wellness

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

 

 

Appendix D

 

Nutrition Guidelines for All Foods Available on Campus

 

School Meals

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

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

 

Schools should:

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

 

Breakfast

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

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

 

Free and Reduced-Priced Meals

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

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

 

Meal Times and Scheduling

The school district:

  • will provide students with at least 10 minutes to eat after sitting down for breakfast and 20 minutes after sitting down for lunch;
  • should schedule meal periods at appropriate times, e.g., lunch should be scheduled between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.; should not schedule tutoring, club or organizational meetings or activities during mealtimes, unless students may eat during such activities;
  • will schedule lunch periods to follow recess periods (in elementary schools);
  • will provide students access to hand washing or hand sanitizing before they eat meals or snacks; and,

 

Nutrition Guidelines for All Foods Available on Campus

  • should take reasonable steps to accommodate the tooth-brushing regimens of students with special oral health needs (e.g. orthodontia or high tooth decay risk).

 

Qualification of Food Service Staff

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

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

 

Sharing of Foods

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

 

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

All foods and beverages sold individually outside the reimbursable meal programs (including those sold through a la carte lines, vending machines, student stores or fundraising activities) during the school day, or through programs for students after the school day will meet nutrition standards as required by state or federal law.   .

 

Fundraising Activities

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

 

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

 

Snacks

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

 

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

 

Rewards

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

 

Nutrition Guidelines for All Foods Available on Campus

 

Celebrations

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

 

School-Sponsored Events

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

 

Food Safety

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

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

 

 

Appendix E

 

Plan for Measuring Implementation

 

Monitoring

The superintendent, the principal at each school, and the committee and/or designee will ensure compliance with established school district-wide nutrition and physical activity wellness policies.

 

In each school:

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

 

In the school district:

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

 

Policy Review

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

 

Assessments will be repeated every 3 years to help review policy compliance, assess progress and determine areas in need of improvement.  As part of that review, the school district will review the nutrition and physical activity policies and practices and the provision of an environment that supports healthy eating and physical activity.  The school district, and individual schools within the school district will, revise the wellness policies and develop work plans to facilitate their implementation.

 

 

508 Miscellaneous Student Related Matters

508.1 Class or Student Group Gifts

CLASS OR STUDENT GROUP GIFTS
 
The board welcomes gifts to the school district from a class or student group.  While class gifts to the school district do not require the approval of the superintendent, the board encourages students to consult with the superintendent or other licensed employees prior to selecting a gift for the school district.
 
Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 68B; 722.1, .2 (2001).
 
 
Previously Policy Number:  505.3
 
 
Adopted:  November 11, 1985              
 
Reviewed:  March 1998                
September 2006
December 17, 2012
 
Revised:  February 17, 2003
 

508.2 Open Night

OPEN NIGHT
 
In keeping with good community relations, student school activities will not be scheduled on Wednesday night beyond 6:30 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 (2001).
 
 
Cross Reference:           1001.2  Board - Community Relations
 
 
Adopted:  February 17, 2003                
 
Reviewed: September 2006             
December 17, 2012