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

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

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

 

Legal Reference:   

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

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

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

33 D.P.I. Dec. Rule 80 (1984).

Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4.

        

Cross Reference:   

    100  Legal Status of the School District

Approved:  2/101997            Reviewed:   02/12/2024                       Revised:  02/12/2024

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:               

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

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

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

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

Approved:  2/10/1997              Reviewed:   02/12/2024                        Revised:  02/12/2024

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

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

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

• are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;

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

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

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

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

• are attending an accredited nonpublic school;

• are receiving independent private instruction; or,

• 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.

 

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.  The compulsory attendance law does not require school districts to have a truancy officer.

Legal Reference:    

Iowa Code §§ 259A; 279.10-.11; 299; 299A. 

Cross Reference:              

         601. 1   School Calendar

604.01  Private Instruction

 

Approved:  2/10/1997              Reviewed: 07/08/2024                   Revised:   07/08/2024

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:               

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

 

Cross Reference:              

507.01       Student Health and Immunization Certificates

607.02       Student Health Services

607.02R1  Student Health Services - Regulation 

Approved:  2/10/1997           Reviewed:  02/12/2024             Revised:  02/12/2024

The board will have complete discretion to determine the boundaries for each attendance center. 

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

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

 

Legal Reference:               

     Iowa Code §§ 279.11; 282.7-.8.

 

 

 

 

 

Approved:  2/10/1997                         Reviewed:   6/10/2024                        Revised:  07/10/2023

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 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.  Students expelled or suspended from their previous school district will only be enrolled after approval of the board.

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

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

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

Legal Reference:               

20 U.S.C. § 1232g (1988).

Iowa Code §§ 139.9A8; 282.1, .3,.4; 299A.

 

Cross Reference:              

501.15    Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Receiving District

505.3      Student Honors and Awards

507         Student Health and Well-Being

604.1      Private Instruction

604.10    Online Courses

604.11    Appropriate Use of Online Learning Platforms

 Approved: 2/10/1997       Reviewed:  02/12/2024   Revised:  02/12/2024

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

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

 

Legal Reference:               

Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299.

281 I.A.C. 12.2(4). 

 

 

Approved:  2/101997            Reviewed:   02/12/2024               Revised:  02/12/2024 

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

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

Truant/truancy means a child of compulsory attendance age who is absent from school for any reason for at least twenty percent of the hours in the semester. Truancy does not apply to the following students who:

• have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or has obtained a high school equivalency diploma are excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or judge;

• are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;

• are attending a private college preparatory school accredited or probationally accredited;

• are excused under Iowa Code §299.22; and

• are exempt under Iowa Code §299.24.

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 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 designated school officials, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.  The administrative regulations will indicate the disciplinary action to be taken for truancy.

 

Legal Reference:   

34 C.F.R. sec. 300

28 C.F.R. Pt. 35            

Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299.

281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).

 

 

Approved:  4/14/1997            Reviewed: 07/08/2024                 Revised:  07/08/2024

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

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

 

Legal Reference:  

Iowa Code § 294.4.

281 I.A.C. 12.3.(4).

 

Approved:  2/10/1997          Reviewed: 02/12/2024        Revised:  02/12/2024

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 physical condition, 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.

Cross Reference:   

604.2  Individualized Instruction

 

 

Approved:  2/10/1997              Reviewed:  02/12/2024           Revised:  02/12/2024

Students who have attained legal age may continue the education program without payment of tuition as long as they are eligible to attend an Iowa public school and are residents of the school district.

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

 

 

Legal Reference:   20 U.S.C. § 1232g.

                               Iowa Code §§ 22; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4; 599.1; 622.10.

                               281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).3.

 

 

Approved:  2/10/1997       Reviewed:   02/12/2024      Revised:  02/12/2024

 

Approved:  02/10/1997               Reviewed:   07/08/2024             Revised:      07/08/2024

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

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

*    Children and youth who are: 

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

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

• Living in emergency or transitional shelters; or

• Abandoned in hospitals. 

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

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

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

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

• Designate that Hannah Schulz, Elementary Student Family Advocate as the local homeless children and youth liaison; 

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

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

• Ensure collaboration and coordination with other service providers; 

• Ensure transportation is provided in accordance with legal requirements; 

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:    

20 U.S.C. § 6301.

42 U.S.C. § 11302. 

42 U.S.C. §§ 11431 et seq 

281 I.A.C. 33     

 

Cross Reference:    

503.03           Fines - Fees - Charges

503.03R1       Fines - Fees - Charges - Regulation

503.03E1       Fines - Fees - Charges - Standard Fee Waiver Application

507.1             Student Health and Immunization Certificates

603.3             Special Education

711.01            Student School Transportation Eligibility

 

Approved:  02/10/1997                    Reviewed: 02/12/2024                     Revised: 02/12/2024

 

Student Expression

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

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

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

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

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

Student Publications

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

Any expression made by students, including student expression in official school publications, is not an expression of official school policy.  The school district, the board, and the employees or officials are

not liable in any civil or criminal action for any student expression made or published by students unless the employees or officials have interfered with or altered the content of the student speech or expression.  The liability, if any, is only to the extent of the interference or alteration of the speech or expression.

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

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

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

Legal Reference:               

         U.S. Const. amend. I.

         Iowa Const. art. I (sec. 7)

        Morse v. Frederick, 551 U.S. 393 (2007)

         Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988). 

         Bethel School District v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).

         New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).

         Tinker v. Des Moines Ind. Comm. School Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969). 

         Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).

         Iowa Code §§ 279.8; .73; 280.22.

 

Cross Reference: 

102            Equal Educational Opportunity

102-R1      EEO - Annual Grievance Procedure

102.EH1    EEO - Annual Notice of Nondiscrimination

102-EH2    EEO - Continuous Notice of Nondiscrimination

102-EH3    EEO - Notice of Section 504 Student and Parental Rights

102-EH4    EEO - Discrimination Complaint Form

102-EH5    Witness Disclosure Form

102-EH6    Disposition of Complaint Form

401.14       Employee Expression

603.9         Academic Freedom

603.09R1  Academic Freedom - Teaching Controversial Issues

903.05      Distribution of Materials

903.05      Distribution of Materials - Regulation

 

Approved:  2/10/1997                Reviewed:  02/12/2024           Revised:  02/12/2024

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

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

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

Legal Reference:               

Iowa Code § 279.8.

Cross Reference:                                            

210.08           Board Meeting Agenda

210.08EH1    Board Meeting Agenda - Example

210.08EH2    Board Meeting Agenda - Example(with closed session)

          

Approved:  2/10/1997           Reviewed:  02/12/2024            Revised:  02/12/2024

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

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

Legal Reference:               

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.14; 808A.

 

Cross Reference:                                            

802.01    Maintenance Schedule

Approved:  2/10/1997         Reviewed:  02/12/2024      Revised:  02/12/2024

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

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

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

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

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

 

Legal Reference:        18 U.S.C. § 921 

                                    Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 483A.27(11), 724 

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

 

Approved:  2/10/1997    Reviewed:  07/08/2024    Revised: 07/08/2024

 

 

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 that drive to and park at their school attendance center shall only drive to and park at their designated attendance center(s) or at another district’s attendance center for the purpose of attending extracurricular activities. Students may not loiter around or be in their vehicle nor leave the school grounds 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 that wish to drive to and park at their school attendance center shall comply with the rules and regulations of the building principal. Failure to comply with this policy or the district rules shall be reason for revocation of your school driving and parking privileges as well as other disciplinary action including suspension and expulsion..

 

NOTE: This policy is not mandatory.  

 

Legal Reference:  

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 321

 

Cross Reference:

502.09        Interviews of Student by Outside Agencies

 

Approved:  2/10/1997     Reviewed: 12/09/2024     Revised: 12/09/2024

The board believes inappropriate student conduct causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment, interferes with the rights of others, or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, and visitors on school premises.  Appropriate classroom behavior allows teachers to communicate more effectively with students.

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

Students who fail to abide by this policy, and the administrative regulations supporting it, may be disciplined for conduct which disrupts or interferes with the education program; conduct which disrupts the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school activity; conduct which disrupts the rights of other students to participate in or obtain their education; conduct that is violent or destructive; or conduct which interrupts the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere.  Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to, removal from the classroom, detention, suspension, probation, and expulsion.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:    

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

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

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

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

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

 N.W.2d 854 (1967).

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

281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

 

Cross Reference:    

501            Student Attendance

502            Student Rights and Responsibilities

504            Student Activities

506.03       Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students

603.03       Special Education

903.05       Distribution of Materials

    Approved:  10/12/2015     Reviewed: 02/12/2024               Revised: 02/12/2024     

The board believes students should respect school district property and assist in its preservation for future use by others.  Students may be assessed fines, charges, or fees for the materials needed in a course, for overdue school materials, for participating in activities, or for misuse of school property.

The superintendent will inform the board of the dollar amount to be charged to students or others for fines, charges, or fees annually.  Parents of students meeting specific financial eligibility standards will be eligible for a waiver of student fees or a reduction of student fees based upon the request and completion of forms by the parent.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:               

     Iowa Code §§ 256.7(20); 279.8, 289.10, .11; 282.6; 285.1; 301.1.

     281 I.A.C. 18.2

     

Cross Reference:              

     501.16  Homeless Children & Youth

     

Approved:  2/10/1997                Reviewed: 03/18/2024             Revised:  03/18/2024 

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

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

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

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

 

Legal Reference:

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

     In re Jason Clark, 1 D.P.I. App. Dec. 167 (1978).

     Iowa Code §§ 280.13, .13A (2013).

     281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 36.15(1).

Cross Reference:

504.04     Student Performances

606.05     Student Field Trips and Excursions

 

Approved:  2/10/2020                               Reviewed:  03/18/2024                                    Revised:  03/18/2024

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

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

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

Physical restraint or seclusion is reasonable or necessary only:

• To prevent or terminate an imminent threat of bodily injury to the student or others; or

• To prevent serious damage to property of significant monetary value or significant non monetary value or importance; or

• When the student’s actions seriously disrupt the learning environment or when physical restraint or seclusion is necessary to ensure the safety of the student or others; and

• When less restrictive alternatives to seclusion or physical restraint would not be effective, would not be feasible under the circumstances, or have failed in preventing or terminating the imminent threat or behavior; and

• When the physical restraint or seclusion complies with all applicable laws.

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

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

   

  

Legal Reference:

     Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21.

     281 I.A.C. 103.

Cross Reference:

     402.3 Abuse of Students by School District Employees

     503.5  Corporal Punishment

 

Approved:  2/8/2021               Reviewed:   05/13/2024                                 Revised: 05/13/2024

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

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

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

 

Approved:  08/14/2023                Reviewed:  ____________                    Revised:  ______________

See attached PDF below

Approved:  02/12/2024   Reviewed:  _____________  Revised:  ___________

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

For this reason, student use of personal electronic devices during instructional time is prohibited. Students have access to district-owned electronic devices as appropriate for the instructional needs of the learning environment and authorized by the classroom teacher. Personal electronic devices means any device that is capable of electronically communicating, sending, receiving, storing, recording, reproducing and/or displaying information and data. Students may wear smart or electronic watches but may not use any communication applications or features that are prohibited from use on other electronic devices and all notifications must be turned off. Personal electronic devices that have been specifically authorized under a current individual education plan (IEP), a Section 504 plan, or an Individual Health Plan (IHP) are exempt from this policy. For purposes of this policy, instructional time is defined as the time from the beginning of class bell through the end of class bell, and includes all lunch and recess periods. 

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

 

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

 

Legal References:

16 C.F.R. 312 

34 C.F.R. pt. 99

47 C.F.R. 54.520

Iowa Code 279.8

 

Cross Reference:

    401.12    Employee Use of Cell Phones

    401.12R1    Employee Use of Cell Phones - Regulation

 

Approved: 12/09/2024   Reviewed:  _____________  Revised:  _______________

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

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

 

Legal Reference:  

     Iowa Code § 279.8.

 

Approved:  2/10/1997                Reviewed: 03/18/2024                                         Revised:  03/18/2024

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 building principal, unless it involves unusual travel and expense, in which case the board must approve of the performance.

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

• Performances by student groups below the high school level should be allowed on a very limited basis;

• All groups of students should have an opportunity to participate; and,

• Extensive travel by one group of students should be discouraged.

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

Legal Reference:               

      Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).

      Iowa Code §§ 280.13-.14.

      281 I.A.C. 12.6.

Cross Reference:              

      503.4     Good Conduct Rule

    Approved: 2/10/1997                Reviewed: 03/18/2024        Revised:  03/18/2024

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 with approval of the superintendent.  

Such outside participation will not conflict with the school sponsored athletic activity.

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

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

Legal Reference:    20 U.S.C. §§ 1681-1683; 1685-1686.

34 C.F.R. Pt. 106.41.

Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 280.13-.14.

281 I.A.C. 12.6., 12.6., 36.15(7)

Cross Reference:                           

507.09        Wellness

507.09R1    Wellness - Regulation

Approved:  2/10/1997                         Reviewed: 03/18/2024                    Revised: 03/18/2024

Events in which students participate during school hours or as representatives of the school but at places outside of the school must be sponsored and supervised by professional school personnel. Rules of behavior shall be the same as at any in-school activity or event.

The Board of Directors has no responsibility or accountability for any school child when the child is in the custody and control of his/her parents or other agencies.

 

Approved  2/10/1997                         Reviewed  03/18/2024                          Revised

 

 

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

Parent-teacher conferences will be held semi-annually at the elementary and middle school to keep parents informed.  High school conferences are not individually scheduled.

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

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

Legal Reference:               

Iowa Code §§ 256.11, 41; 280, 284.12).

281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), 12.3(6); .5(16).

 

 

Approved:  4/14/1997           Reviewed:  03/18/2024                 Revised:  03/18/2024

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

The district shall adhere to the following: 

• Retention/Promotion in kindergarten – eighth grade: The retention of a student will be determined based upon the judgment of the district’s professional staff. When it becomes evident a student in grades kindergarten through eight may be retained in a grade level for an additional year, the parents will be informed prior to making the retention decision.  It is within the sole discretion of the district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
•  Retention/Promotion in ninth – twelfth grade: Students in grades nine through twelve will be informed of the required 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 district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
•  Acceleration in kindergarten – twelfth grade: Students in grades kindergarten through twelve with exceptional talents may, with the permission of the principal and parents, take classes beyond their current grade level. Enrichment opportunities outside the school district may be allowed when they do not conflict with the school district's graduation requirements.
• Retention or Acceleration in kindergarten – twelfth grade may also occur in additional instances as provided by law. 

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

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

NOTE: School districts that use specific steps or processes for determining retention or acceleration should reference the applicable criteria or where to locate the criteria in the bulleted information above. 

Legal Reference:    

Iowa Code §§ 256.11, 41; 279.8; .68

281 I.A.C. 12.5(16).

 

Cross Reference:  

410.02       Summer School License Empoyees 

603.02       Summer School Instruction 

 

Approved: 10/12/2015            Reviewed:  07/08/2024               Revised: 07/08/2024  

 

The school district will provide a program that establishes honors and awards including, but not limited to, academic letters, scholarships and good citizenship awards for students to assist students in setting goals. Students are made aware of honors and awards and the action necessary on the part of the student to achieve them. 

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:    Iowa Code § 279.8.

Cross Reference:                                            

501.6      Student Transfers In

 

Approved:  2/10/1997              Reviewed: 03/18/2024           Revised:   03/18/2024

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

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

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

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

• sex behavior or attitudes; 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Legal Reference: 

     20 U.S.C. § 1232h

     Iowa Code §§ 280.3

 

Cross References:

     505    Student Scholastic Achievement

     506    Student Records

     607.02     Student Health Services 

     607.02-R(1) Student Health Services - Regulation

 

Approved:  02/10/1997                  Reviewed: 08/14/023                Revised:  08/14/2023

 

 

 

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

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

 

Legal Reference:    Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3.

                                281 I.A.C. 12.5.

 

 

Approved:  2/10/1997         Reviewed:  03/18/2024                    Revised:  03/18/2024

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

(1)    Involve parents and families in the development of the Title I plan, the process for school review of the plan and the process for improvement; 

• Jointly developing and agreed-upon written policy that is distributed to parents and family members of participating Title I children through the Elementary Parent/Student Handbook which is made available to every family.  (ESSA Section 1116(a)(2)(A) and (b)(1))

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

• Providing technical assistance and support in planning and implementing effective parent and family engagement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance through professional development regarding parent and family engagement.  The district will partner with community groups as a means to engage families more creatively and successfully.  (ESSA section 116(a)(2)(B))

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

• Working to find ways to work cooperatively with other Federal, State and local programs.  The Title I program will work with local public preschool programs, Headstart programs, local library programs, and special education programs (IDEA).  Our homeless education program coordinates with the local backpack program to offer support to students that are food insecure, especially over the weekends.  (ISSA Section 1116(a)(2)(C))

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

• Conducting an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness for the Parent and Family Engagement Policy.  The evaluation includes parents in a meaningful manner.  In addition to surveys, the district uses advisory groups for this evaluation.  Parents and families have a voice.  The evaluation tools and methods identify the type and frequency of school-home interactions and the needs of parents and families have to better support and assist their children in learning.  The evaluations will target at least three key areas; barriers, ability to assist learning, and successful interactions.  (ESSA Section 1116(a)(2)(D)(iiii))

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

• Using the findings for the annual evaluation to design evidence-based strategies for more effective parent and family engagement.  The evaluation results will help uncover best practices thar are working and adapt those ideas to the district and individual school needs.  (ESSA Section 1116(a)(2)(E))

(6)    Involve parents and families in Title I activities by: 

• Involving parents and family members in the activities of the school.  The district has established a school improvement advisory committee composed of a sufficient number and representative group of parents or family members to adequately represent the needs of the population, revised, and reviewed the Parent and Family Engagement Policy.  (ESSA Section 1116(a)(2)(F))

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

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

Legal References:        

     20 U.S.C. §6318

Cross References:        

     903.2   Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

 

Approved:  01/09/2018                        Reviewed:  06/10/2024                              Revised:  06/14/2021

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

Definitions

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

• “Education Record” means those records that contain information directly related to a student and which are maintained by an education agency or institution or by a party acting for the agency or institution. 

• “Eligible Student” means a student who has reached eighteen years or attends a postsecondary institution. Parents of an eligible student are provided access to education records only with the written permission of the eligible student unless the eligible student is defined as a dependent by the Internal Revenue Code. In that case, the parents may be provided access without the written permission of the student.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

• To school officials within the school district and AEA personnel whom the superintendent has determined to have a legitimate educational interest, including, but not limited to, board members, employees, school attorney, auditor, health professionals, and individuals serving on official school committees;

• To officials of another school district in which the student wishes to enroll, provided the other school district notifies the parents the education records are being sent and the parents have an opportunity to receive a copy of the records and challenge the contents of the records unless the annual notification includes a provision that records will automatically be transferred to new school districts;

• To the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education or state and local educational authorities;

• In connection with a student’s application for, or receipt of, financial aid; 

• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, educational agencies or institutions for the purpose of developing, validating, or administering predictive tests, administering student aid programs, and improving instruction, if such studies are conducted in such a manner as will not permit the personal identification of students and their parents by persons other than representatives of such organizations and such information will be destroyed when no longer needed for the purpose for which it was conducted; 

• To accrediting organizations;

• To parents of a dependent student as defined in the Internal Revenue Code;

• To comply with a court order or judicially issued subpoena;

• Consistent with an interagency agreement between the school district and juvenile justice system

• In connection with a health or safety emergency; 

• As directory information; or

• In additional instances as provided by law. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The school district will provide training or instruction to employees about parents' and eligible students' rights under this policy.  Employees will also be informed about the procedures for carrying out this policy.  

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to annually notify parents and eligible students that they have the right to:

1. Inspect and review the student's education records; 

2. Seek amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights; 

3. Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that the law authorizes disclosure without consent; and 

4. File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the law.

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

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

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.

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

 

Legal Reference:      

20 U.S.C. § 1232g, 1415, 

34 C.F.R. Pt. 99, 300, .610 et seq., 

Iowa Code §§ 22; 279.9B, 280.24, .25, 622.10. 

281 I.A.C. 12.3(4); 41 

                

Cross Reference:   

102          Equal Education Opportunity 

102-R1    Equal Educational Opportunity - Grievance Procedure

102-E1    Equal Educational Opportunity - Annual Notice of Nondiscrimination

102-E3    Equal Educational Opportunity - Notice of Section 504 Student and Parental Rights

102-E4    Equal Educational Opportunity - Discrimination Complaint Form

102-E5    Equal Educational Opportunity - Witness Disclosure Form

102-E6    Equal Educational Opportunity - Disposition of Complaint Form

603.3         Special Education

604.11        Appropriate Use of Online Learning Platforms

708            Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records

712             Technology and Data Security

712R1        Technology and Data Security - Security Requirements of Third-Party Vendors Regulation

804.06        Use of Recording Devices on School Property

804.06R1    Use of Recording Devices on School Property - Use of District Owned Recording Devices Regulation

901             Public Examination of School District Records

Approved: 2/10/1997              Reviewed: 03/18/2024           Revised: 03/18/2024

 

 

Students desiring to participate in athletic activities or enrolling in pre-k or kindergarten  in the school district will have a physical examination by a licensed healthcare provider 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, hepatitis B, varicella, and other immunizations required by law.  The student may be admitted conditionally to the attendance center if the student has not yet completed the immunization process but is in the process of doing so.  Failure to meet the immunization requirement will be grounds for suspension, expulsion or denial of admission.  Upon recommendation  of the Iowa Department of Education and Iowa Department of Public Health, students entering the district for the first time may be required to pass a TB test prior to admission.  The district may conduct TB tests of current students.

Exemptions from the immunization requirement in this policy will be allowed only for medical or religious reasons recognized under the law.  The student must provide a valid Iowa State Department of Health Certificate of Immunization Exemption to be exempt from this policy. 

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

Legal Reference:               

Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 280.13.

281 I.A.C. 33.5.

641 I.A.C. 7.

 

Cross Reference:              

402.02      Child Abuse Reporting

501.04    Entrance - Admissions

501.16    Homeless Children and Youth

604.01    Private Instruction

604.08    Foreign Students

Approved:  2/10/1997           Reviewed:  03/18/2024        Revised: 03/18/2024

The board is committed to the inclusion of all students in the education program and recognizes that some students may need prescription and nonprescription medication to participate in their educational program.

Medication shall be administered when the student's parent or guardian (hereafter "parent") provides a signed and dated written statement requesting medication administration and the medication is in the original, labeled container, either as dispensed or in the manufacturer's container.  Administration of medication may also occur consistent with board policy 507.4R1 - Stock Epinephrine Auto-Injector Supply.

When administration of the medication requires ongoing professional health judgment, an individual health plan shall be developed by the licensed health personnel working under the auspice of the school with collaboration the parent or guardian, individual’s health care provider or education pursuant to 050.14.2(256). Students who have demonstrated competence in administering their own medications may self-administer their medication. A written statement by the student's parent shall be on file requesting co-administration of medication, when competence has been demonstrated.    By law, students with asthma, or other airway constricting diseases, respiratory distress or students at risk of anaphylaxis who use epinephrine auto-injectors may self-administer their medication upon approval of their parents and prescribing licensed health care professional physician regardless of competency.

Persons administering medication shall include authorized practitioners, such as the licensed registered nurses, physician, and persons to whom authorized practitioners have delegated the administration of medication (who have successfully completed a medication administration course conducted by a registered nurse or pharmacist that is provided by the department of education).  The medication administration course is completed every five years with an annual procedural skills check completed with a registered nurse or a pharmacist.  A record of course completion shall be maintained by the school.

A written medication administration record shall be on file including:

• date;
• student’s name;
• prescriber or person authorizing administration;
• medication;
• medication dosage;
• administration time;
• administration method;
• signature and title of the person administering medication; and
• any unusual circumstances, actions, or omissions.

Medication shall be stored in a secured area unless an alternate provision is documented.  The development of  emergency protocols for medication-related  reactions is required.   Medication information shall be confidential information as provided by law.

Disposal of unused, discontinued/recalled or expired abandoned medication shall be in compliance with federal and state law.  Prior to disposal school personnel shall make a reasonable attempt to return medication by providing written notification that expired, discontinued, or unused medications need to be picked up.  If medication is not picked up by the date specified disposal shall be in accordance with the disposal procedures for the specific category of medication.

NOTE: School districts may stock over-the-counter, nonprescription medications that are not for life-threatening incidents. The policy for medication administration covers prescription and nonprescription medication. 

Legal Reference:        

     Disposing on Behalf of Ultimate Users, 79 Fed. Reg. 53520, 53546 (Sept. 9, 2014)     

     Iowa Code §§124.101(1), 147.107, 152.1, 155A.4(2); 280.16,  280.23.                                                                                                                 

     281 IAC §14.1,2

 

Cross Reference:       

     507.4R1  Stock Epinephrine Auto-Injector Supply

     603.3 Special Education

     607.2  Student Health Services

     607.2-R1  Student Health Services - Regulation  

 

Approved:  2/10/1997               Reviewed:  08/14/2023         Revised:  08/14/2023

Students will be informed of the action to take in an emergency.  Emergency drills for fire, weather, and other disasters shall be conducted each school year.  Fire and tornado drills are each conducted regularly during the academic school year with a minimum of two before December 31 and two after January 1.

Each attendance center will develop and maintain a written plan containing emergency and disaster procedures.  The plan will be communicated to and reviewed with employees.  Employees will participate in emergency drills.  Licensed employees are responsible for instructing the proper techniques to be followed in the drill.

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

 

Legal Reference:               

     Iowa Code § 100.31

 

Cross Reference:              

     711.7  School Bus Safety Instruction

      

Approved:  2/10/1997         Reviewed:  03/18/2024       Revised:  03/18/2024

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

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

 

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

• Nutrition Education and Promotion:  Schools will provide nutrition education and engage in nutrition promotion that helps students develop lifelong healthy eating behaviors.
• Physical Activity: Schools will provide students with age and grade appropriate opportunities to engage in physical activity that meet the Iowa Healthy Kids Act.
• Other School Based Activities that Promote Wellness: As appropriate, schools will support students, staff, and parents’ efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  

 

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

• Meals served through the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program will be appealing and meet, at a minimum, nutrition requirements established by state and federal law;
• Schools providing access to healthy foods outside the reimbursable meal programs before school, during school and thirty minutes after school shall meet the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) Smart Snacks in Schools nutrition standards, at a minimum.  This includes such items as those sold through a la carte lines, vending machines, student run stores, and fundraising activities; 
• Schools will only allow marketing and advertising of foods and beverages that meet the Smart Snacks in school nutrition standards on campus during the school day. 

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

• Reviewing the policy at least every three years and recommending updates as appropriate for board approval;
• Implementing a process for permitting parents, students, representatives of the school food authority, teachers of physical education, school health professionals, the school board, administrators and the public to participate in the development, implementation, and periodic review and update of the policy; 
• Making the policy and updated assessment of the implementation available to the public (e.g., posting on the website, newsletters, etc). This information shall include the extent to which the schools are in compliance with policy and a description of the progress being made in attaining the goals of the policy; and
• Developing administrative regulations, which shall include specific wellness goals and indicators for measurement of progress consistent with law and district policy.  

 

 

Legal Reference:      

    42 U.S.C. §§ 1751 et seq. 

     42 U.S.C. §§ 1771 et seq.  

     Iowa Code §§ 256.7(29); 256.11(6).

     281 I.A.C. 12.5; 58.11.

 

Cross Reference:    

     504.6    Student Activity Program

      

 

Approved:  1/9/2018                                                  Reviewed:    05/13/2024                              Revised:   05/13/2024

In keeping with good community relations, student school activities will not be scheduled on Wednesday* night beyond 6:00 p.m. whenever possible.  It is the responsibility of the principal to oversee the scheduling of school activities for compliance with this policy.  This will be in effect from September 1 through May 1 of each school year.

 

Legal Reference:               

     Iowa Code § 279.8.

 

Cross Reference:              

     900  Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

 

Approved:  02/10/1997                        Reviewed: 03/18/2024                     Revised:       07/10/2023