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402.03 ABUSE OF STUDENTS BY SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES

Physical or sexual abuse of students, but not limited to sexual or physical relationships, grooming behavior and otherwise inappropriate relationships with students by employees will not be tolerated.  The definition of employees for the purpose of this policy includes not only those who work for pay but also those who are volunteers of the school district under the direction and control of the school district.  Employees found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including discharge.

The school district will respond promptly to allegations of abuse of students by school district employees by timely reporting to all relevant agencies as required by law.  The processing of a complaint or allegation will be handled confidentially to the maximum extent possible. Employees are required to assist in the investigation when requested to provide information and to maintain the confidentiality of the reporting and investigation process.  If the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services reports to the board of directors of the district that an allegation of abuse of a student has been made against a school employee, the district will place the employee on administrative leave until the resolution of the investigation. The employee will be prohibited from entering school property while on administrative leave.

The superintendent is responsible for drafting administrative regulations to implement this policy. 

NOTE: This policy is a reflection of current Iowa law regarding abuse of students by school district employees.

Legal Reference:      

     Iowa Code §§ 232.67, .70, .73, .75; 235A; 256.160; 272A; 280.17; 709;728.12(1).

     281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 102; 103.

     441 I.A.C. 155; 175.

 

 

Cross Reference:

104                Anti-Bullying/Harassment

104-R1          Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Investigation Procedures

104-E1          Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Complaint Form

104-E2          Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Witness Disclosure Form

104-E3          Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Disposition of Complaint Form

401.06           Limitations of Employment References

402.02           Child Abuse Reporting

503.05           Corporal Punishment

503.06           Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students

503.06-R1     Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students - Regulation

503.6-E1       Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students - Documentation Form

503.6-E2       Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students - Debriefing Letter to Guardian of student Involved in an Occurrence Where Physical Restraint or Seclusion was Used

503.6-E3       Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students - Debriefing Meeting Document

 

Approved:   12/9/1996                                       Reviewed:      07/14/2025                                      Revised: 07/14/2025