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 ßß 257.6; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4 (1995).

                               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

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed   1/8/2018                        Revised

Students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school but who are not legal residents of the school district may be admitted into the school district at the discretion of the superintendent upon application and payment of tuition.  The tuition rate shall be 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). Oshel v. Creston Comm. School Dist., DPI Admin. Doc. 570 (1981). Iowa Code ßß 257.6; 282.1, .2, .6, .7, .24 (1995).

Cross Reference:              

501  Student Attendance

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed   1/8/2018                        Revised

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 attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;

• 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.

The principal will 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 will refer the matter over to the county attorney.

The school will participate in mediation if requested by the county attorney.  The superintendent will 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 Reference:               

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

Cross Reference:              

     501    Student Attendance

     601.1  School Calendar

     604.1  Competent Private Instruction

Approved:  2/10/1997              Reviewed:  1/11/2021                    Revised:   1/11/2021  

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 shall 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 shall be 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 shall be reason for suspension, expulsion or denying admission to the student.

Legal Reference:               

Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 144.45(5); 282.1, .3, .6.

Cross Reference:              

501        Student Attendance

507.1  Student Health and Immunization Certificates

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed       1/8/2018                       Revised

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:   7/10/2023                        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.

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. ß 1232g (1988).

Iowa Code ßß 139.9; 282.1, .3; 299A (1995).

Cross Reference:              

501        Student Attendance

505.3  Student Honors and Awards

507        Student Health and Well-Being

604.1  Competent Private Instruction

Approved 2/10/97       Reviewed  1/8/2018     Revised

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

It shall be 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 ßß 294.4; 299 (1995).

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

Cross Reference:              

501  Student Attendance

506  Student Records

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed   1/8/2018                        Revised

Regular attendance by students 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 shall attend school unless excused by the principal or attendance center.

Student absences approved by the principal shall be 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, and school sponsored or other approved activities.

The district believes that traditional, in-person school attendance leads to the greatest learning opportunities for students.  However, there may be rare and unusual circumstances created by public emergencies declared by state or local officials which temporarily prevent students from attending traditional, in-person school.  In these circumstances, the superintendent will have discretion to make reasonable accommodations for students, on a case-by-case basis, to attend school through remote learning opportunities within the available resources of the district and as permitted by law.  During approved remote learning, attendance will be taken, assessments may be administered, and grades will count towards students’ cumulative grade point average as if they were attending in person.  The provision of special education and accommodations for students who have individualized education programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans will be determined by each respective IEP or Section 504 team.

Students whose absences are approved will make up the work missed and receive full credit for the missed school work.  It shall be 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 be in attendance by noon of 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 or by a written note when the student returns to school. In the event that an absence is not deemed excused within a reasonable time period, said absence will be determined truant.  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:               

     34 C.F.R. sec. 300

     28 C.F.R. Pt. 35       

     Iowa Code ßß 294.4; 299.

     281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).

Cross Reference:              

     501  Student Attendance

     503  Student Discipline

     504  Student Activities. 

     506  Student Records

Approved:  4/14/97                                                Reviewed:   8/10/2020                                            Revised:  8/10/2020

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

Legal Reference:   Iowa Code ß 294.4 (1995).

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

Cross Reference:  501  Student Attendance

                              503  Student Discipline

                              504  Student Activities

                              506  Student Records

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed   1/8/2018                        Revised

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 shall resume classes upon the recommendation  of her physician.

Legal Reference:    Iowa Code ßß 216; 279.8; 280.3 (1995).

Cross Reference:   501     Student Attendance

                               604.2  Individualized Instruction

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed  1/8/2018                        Revised

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

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

Legal Reference:   20 U.S.C. ß 1232g (1988).

                               Iowa Code ßß 22; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4; 599.1; 622.10 (1995).

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

Cross Reference:   501  Student Attendance

                               506  Student Records

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed       1/8/2018                       Revised

Legal Reference:   Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1 (2005).

Approved                                Reviewed   1/8/2018              Revised      9/22/05

HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTH

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 the 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.     

Cross Reference:    

    503.3      Fines - Fees - Charges

    503.3R1 Fines-Fees-Charges-Regulation

    503.3E1 Fines-Fees-Charges-Standard Fee Waiver Application

    507.1     Student Health and Immunization Certificates

    603.3     Special Education

    711.1     Student School Transportation Eligibility

Approved:  02/10/1997                    Reviewed:  11/14/2022                                Revised: 11/14/2022

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 Independent Community School District, 393 U.S. 503 (1969). 

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

     Iowa Code §§ 279.8; .73; 280.22.

Cross Reference: 

     102 Equal Educational Opportunity

     502   Student Rights and Responsibilities

     504 Student Activities

     603.9  Academic Freedom

     903.5 Distribution of Materials

                      Approved:  2/10/1997                         Reviewed:  10/11/2021                      Revised:  10/11/2021

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 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.

Legal Reference:               

     Iowa Code ß 279.8 (1995).

Cross Reference:                                            

     210.8  Board Meeting Agenda

     213     Public Participation in Board Meetings

     307     Communication Channels

     502     Student Rights and Responsibilities

     504.3  Student Publications

Approved:  2/10/1997                         Reviewed:  1/9/2018                        Revised:

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 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 ßß 279.8; 280.14; 808A (1995).

Cross Reference:                                            

502  Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                        Revised

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

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

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

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

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

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

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

Cross Reference:        502    Student Rights and Responsibilities

                                    503    Student Discipline

                                    507    Student Health and Well-Being

• 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 shall be 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 (1993).

Iowa Code ßß 124; 279.8, .9; 453A (1995).

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

Approved  2/10/97                       Reviewed  1/9/2018                      Revised

• verbal, physical or written harassment,  bullying 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.

The district will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of harassment.  The building principal will be responsible for handling all complaints by students alleging harassment.

Retaliation against a student because the student has filed a harassment complaint or assisted or participated in a harassment investigation or proceeding is also prohibited, however, the superintendent has the right to discipline students who knowingly file false harassment complaints.  A student who is found to have retaliated against another in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.

It  will also be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the investigator and principals, to develop administrative rules regarding this policy.  The superintendent will also be responsible for organizing training programs for students and employees.  The training will include how to recognize harassment and what to do in case a student is harassed. It will also include effective harassment prevention strategies. The superintendent will also develop a process for evaluating the efectiveness of the policy by reducing harassment in the school district. The superintendent shall report to the board on the progress of reducing harassment in the school district.

Legal Reference:                               

     20 U.S.C. §§ 1221-1234i (1994).

     29 U.S.C. §794 (1994).

     42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d-2000d-7  (1994).

     42 U.S.C. §§12001 et. seq.  (1999).

     Iowa Code §216.9; 280.3  (2003).

     281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

Cross Reference:                              

     403.6 Harassment

     502    Student Rights and Responsibilities

     503    Student Discipline

     506    Student Records

Approved:  2/10/1997                         Reviewed:  1/9/2018                       Revised: 9/20/2004

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; or 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 and decide whether to hold a disciplinary hearing to determine whether to impose further sanctions against the student which may include expulsion.  In making its decision, the board shall consider the best interests of the school district, which shall include what is best to protect and ensure the safety of the school employees and students from the student committing the assault.  Assault for purposes of this section of this policy is defined as, when, without justification, a student does any of the following:

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

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.

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 consecutive school 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.

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.

Legal Reference:    

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

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

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

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

     Board of Directors of Ind. School Dist. of Waterloo v. Green, 259 Iowa 1260, 147 N.W.2d 854 (1967).

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

     281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

Cross Reference:    

     501    Student Attendance

     502    Student Rights and Responsibilities

     504    Student Activities

     506.3. Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students

     603.3    Special Education

     903.5    Distribution of Materials

Approved        10/12/15                                       Reviewed      2/8/2021                                              Revised      2/8/2021             

     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 ßß 21.5; 282.3, .4, .5 (1995).

     281 I.A.C. 12.3(8).

Cross Reference:              

     502  Student Rights and Responsibilities

     503  Student Discipline

Approved:  2/10/97                                                      Reviewed:  1/9/2018                                                   Revised:

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 shall inform the board of the dollar amount to be charged to students or others for fines, charges, or fees annually.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:               

     Iowa Code ß 279.8 (1995).

     1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 227.

     1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 532.

Cross Reference:              

     501.16  Homeless Children & Youth

     502          Student Rights and Responsibilities

     503          Student Discipline

Approved:  2/10/97                                                     Reviewed: 1/9/2018                                               Revised:

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

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

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

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

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:

     502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

     503 Student Discipline

     504 Student Activities

Approved:  2/10/2020                               Reviewed:_______________                                     Revised:________________

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

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

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

Physical restraint or seclusion is reasonable or necessary only:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:

     Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21.

     281 I.A.C. 103.

Cross Reference:

     402.3 Abuse of Students by School District Employees

     502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

     503 Student Discipline

     503.5  Corporal Punishment

Approved:  2/8/2021               Reviewed:   ___________                                  Revised: __________ 

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

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

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

Approved:  08/14/2023                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, shall set forth the guidelines for the student government's elections, operations, and other elements of the government.

Legal Reference:  

     Iowa Code ß 279.8 (1995).

Cross Reference:              

     502  Student Rights and Responsibilities

     504  Student Activities

Approved:  2/10/97                                                           Reviewed:  1/9/2018                                           Revised:  

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:               

     Westside Community Board of Education v Mergens, 496 U.S. 226 (1990).

     Bender v. Williamsport Area Community School District, 741 F.2d 538 (3d Cir.1984), vacated and remanded on other grounds, 475 U.S. 534 (1986).

     20 U.S.C. §§ 4071-4074.

     Iowa Code  §§ 287; 297.9.

Cross Reference:              

     502  Student Rights and Responsibilities

     504  Student Activities

 Approved: 2/10/1997                                             Reviewed:  1/9/2018                                                 Revised:

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

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

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

It shall be 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 shall be 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 shall be the responsibility of the parent and the student.

Legal Reference:               

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

      Iowa Code ßß 280.13-.14 (1995).

      281 I.A.C. 12.6.

Cross Reference:              

     502        Student Rights and Responsibilities

     503.4  Good Conduct Rule

     504        Student Activities

     904        Community Activities Involving Students

Approved: 2/10/97                                                    Reviewed:  1/9/2018                                                          Revised:

Students may raise funds for school-sponsored  events with the permission of the principal.  Fund raising by students for events other than school-sponsored  events is not allowed.  Collection boxes for school fund raising must have prior approval from the principal before being placed on school property.

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

Legal Reference:               

     Senior Class of Pekin High School v. Tharp, 154 N.W.2d 874 (Iowa 1967).

     Iowa Code ß 279.8 (1995).

Cross Reference:

     502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

     503      Student Discipline

     504      Student Activities

     704.5  Student Activities Fund

     904.5  Advertising and Promotion

 Approved:  2/10/97                                                        Reviewed:  1/9/2018                                                      Revised:

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

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

Student activity events must be approved by the superintendent unless it involves 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 shall not conflict with the school sponsored athletic activity.

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 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.

Legal Reference:                            

20 U.S.C. ßß 1681-1683; 1685-1686 (1994).

34 C.F.R. Pt. 106.41 (1993).

Iowa Code ßß 216.9; 280.13-.14 (1997).

281 I.A.C. 12.6., 36.15

Cross Reference:                           

501  Student Attendance

502  Student Rights and Responsibilities

503  Student Discipline

504  Student Activities

507  Student Health and Well-Being

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                     Revised  12/14/98

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  2/10/97                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                          Revised

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 at midterm 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.

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 Reference:               

Iowa Code ßß 256.11, .11A; 280 (1995).

281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), .3(7); .5(16).

Cross Reference:              

505  Student Scholastic Achievement

506  Student Records

Approved  4/14/97                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                     Revised

Code No. 505.2

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 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. 

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, 279.8.

    281 I.A.C. 12.5(16).

Cross Reference:    501    Student Attendance

    505    Student Scholastic Achievement

    603.2    Summer School Instruction 

Approved 10/12/2015    Reviewed  1/9/2018     Revised           10/09/2017       

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 will be made aware of honors and awards and the action necessary on the part of the student to achieve them.  It is possible that students who have not attended the school district for their entire 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 ß 279.8 (1995).

Cross Reference:                                            

501.6  Student Transfers In

504        Student Activities

505        Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved  2/10/97                        Reviewed  1/9/2018                     Revised

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 shall be 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 ßß 279.8; 280.3, .14 (1995).

281 I.A.C. 12.2; .3(7); .5.

Cross Reference:              

505  Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                         Revised

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

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

• 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:  07/10/2023                              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 board secretary is the custodian of education records.  Education records may be maintained in the central administration office or administrative office of the student's attendance center.  

Definitions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• To school officials within the school district and AEA personnel whom the superintendent has determined to have a legitimate educational interest, including, but not limited to, board members, employees, school attorney, auditor, health professionals, and individuals serving on official school committees;
• To officials of another school district in which the student wishes to enroll, provided the other school district notifies the parents the education records are being sent and the parents have an opportunity to receive a copy of the records and challenge the contents of the records unless the annual notification includes a provision that records will automatically be transferred to new school districts;
• To the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education or state and local educational authorities;
• In connection with a student’s application for, or receipt of, financial aid; 
• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, educational agencies or institutions for the purpose of developing, validating, or administering predictive tests, administering student aid programs, and improving instruction, if such studies are conducted in such a manner as will not permit the personal identification of students and their parents by persons other than representatives of such organizations and such information will be destroyed when no longer needed for the purpose for which it was conducted; 
• To accrediting organizations;
• To parents of a dependent student as defined in the Internal Revenue Code;
• To comply with a court order or judicially issued subpoena;
• [Consistent with an interagency agreement between the school district and juvenile justice agencies]
• 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 oreligible student request that the personally identifiable information be destroyed, the school district will destroy the records, except for permanent records.  Prior to the destruction of the records, the school district must inform the parents or eligible student the records may be needed by the parents or eligible student for social security benefits or other purposes.  For purposes of policy, “no longer needed to provide educational services” means that a record is no longer relevant to the provision of instruction, support, or related services and it is no longer needed for accountability and audit purposes. At a minimum, a record needed for accountability and audit purposes must be retained for five years after completion of the activity for which funds were used. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

NOTE: 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 

            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

Approved: 2/10/1997              Reviewed:  1/9/2018                Revised: 8/14/2017

Approved:   2/10/1997                          Reviewed:  1/9/2018                              Revised:  8/8/2017

Code No.  506.2E1

Page 1 of 2

AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASING STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION

The Tipton Community School District has adopted a policy designed to assure parents and students the full implementation, protection and enjoyment of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA).  A copy of the school district's policy is available for review [Insert location here (e.g. online, administrative offices, etc.)]

This law requires the school district to designate as "directory information" any personally identifiable information taken from a student's educational records prior to making such information available to the public.

The school district has designated the following information as directory information: [Note: a district may, but does not have to, include all the information listed below, which is included in the United States Department of Education’s sample policy. This information should match the information contained in 506.1E8, 506.2R1, and 506.2E1]. 

• •    Student’s name
• •    Address 
• •    Telephone listing 
• •    Electronic mail address
• •    Photograph
• •    Date and place of birth
• •    Major field of study
• •    Dates of attendance 
• •    Grade level 
• •    Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• •    Weight and height of members of athletic teams
• •    Degrees, honors, and awards received
• •    The most recent educational agency or institution attendence

You have the right to refuse the designation of any or all of the categories of personally identifiable information as directory information with respect to your student provided that you notify the school district in writing not later than                , 20     of this school year.  If you desire to make such a refusal, please complete and return the slip attached to this notice.

If you have no objection to the use of student information, you do not need to take any action.

NOTE: If the board decides to eliminate name, address or telephone listing from their directory information, military recruiters and postsecondary institutions still have the right, under federal law, to access the three items. If the board eliminates name, address or telephone listing, the district needs to give parents a second notice allowing them to withhold this information from military recruiters or postsecondary institutions. 

Code No.  506.2E1

Page 2 of 2

AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASING STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION

Students desiring to participate in athletic activities or enrolling in kindergarten or first grade in the school district shall 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 shall be on file at the attendance center.  Each student shall 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 shall 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.

Legal Reference:               

Iowa Code ßß 139.9; 280.13 (1995).

281 I.A.C. 33.5.

641 I.A.C. 7.

Cross Reference:              

402.2  Child Abuse Reporting

501        Student Attendance

507        Student Health and Well-Being

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                     Revised       10/10/2005

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

Approved:  2/10/97                                                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                                                        Revise

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                    Revised

Approved:  2/10/1997                        Reviewed:  1/9/2018                     Revised:  __________

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                         Revised

Approved  2/10/97             Reviewed  1/9/2018             Revised

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; 
• Snacks provided to students during the school day without charge (e.g., class parties) will meet standards set by the district in accordance with law. The district will provide parents a list of foods and beverages that meet nutrition standards for classroom snacks and celebrations; and
• Schools will only allow marketing and advertising of foods and beverages that meet the Smart Snacks in school 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.  Code No. 507.9

Legal Reference:      

    42 U.S.C. §§ 1751 et seq. 

     42 U.S.C. §§ 1771 et seq.  

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

     281 I.A.C. 12.5; 58.11.

Cross Reference:    

     504.5    Student Fund Raising

     504.6    Student Activity Program

      710     School Food Services

Approved:  1/9/2018                                                  Reviewed:     5/10/2021                                   Revised:

In keeping with good community relations, student school activities will not be scheduled on Wednesday* night beyond 6:00 p.m. whenever possible.  It is the responsibility of the principal to oversee the scheduling of school activities for compliance with this policy.  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:  07/10/2023                     Revised:       07/10/2023

The board recognizes the convenience to families and students of having students drive to and park at their school attendance center. However, the board believes that driving is a privilege rather than a right.

Students that 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 nor leave the school grounds in their vehicle during the school day without permission from the principal of their designated attendance center.

Students that wish to drive to and park at their school attendance center shall comply with the rules and regulations of the school district established by the principal. Failure to comply with this policy or the district rules shall be reason for revocation of your school driving and parking privileges.

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                      Revised

Students are not permitted to drive school-owned motor vehicles. Driving in the driver education program is, of course, exempt from this regulation.

Approved  2/10/97                         Reviewed  1/9/2018                   Revised