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

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

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

Legal Reference:         

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

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

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

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

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

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:        

100      Legal Status of the School District

501      Student Attendance

Approved January 2007                      Reviewed July 2021                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 is the current per-pupil cost of the school district as computed by the board secretary and as authorized by the Iowa Department of Education.

Resident students whose families move from the school district after the start of a semester and who wish to complete the semester in the school district may be permitted to attend without the payment of tuition at the discretion of the superintendent and approval of the board.  Students who plan to open enroll to the nonresident district may complete the school year without approval of the superintendent or board.  These students, other than students in grades eleven and twelve, must have the recommendation of the principal.

Students in grades eleven or twelve who are no longer residents of the school district, but were residents in the preceding school year, may continue to attend school until they graduate without the payment of tuition.  These students may be required to identify 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 §§ 257.6; 282.1, .2, .6, .7, .24

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

Approved January 2007                Reviewed July 2021      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 school is in session in accordance with the school calendar.  Students of compulsory attendance age will attend school a minimum of 1,080 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 probationally 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, 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

441 I.A.C. 41.25(8).

1978 Op. Att'y. Gen. 379.

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

601.1   School Calendar

604.1   Competent Private Instruction

Approved January 2007                      Reviewed July 2021             Revised January 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 will require evidence of age and residency in the form of a birth certificate or other evidence before the student may enroll in the school district's education program.  It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine what is satisfactory evidence for proof of age.

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

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 282.1, .3, .6

1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 258.

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

507.1   Student Health and Immunization Certificates

Approved January 2007          Reviewed July 2021  Revised                   

The board will have complete discretion to determine the boundaries for each attendance center, to assign students to the attendance centers.

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 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.

Cross Reference:    501    Student Attendance

Approved       September 2019               Reviewed    July 2021                    Revised                  

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 will request the student's cumulative records from the previous school district.  If the student cannot offer proof of grade level, the superintendent will make the grade level determination.  The superintendent may require testing or other information to determine the grade level.  Students expelled or suspended from their previous school district will only be enrolled after approval of the board.

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

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

Legal Reference:         

20 U.S.C. § 1232g (2006).

Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 282.1, .3, .4; 299A

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

505.3   Student Honors and Awards

507      Student Health and Well-Being

604.1   Competent Private Instruction

Approved January 2007                      Reviewed  July 2021            Revised                   

If the student's parents wish to withdraw or transfer the student from school prior to completing and graduating from the education program, they should notify the superintendent in writing as soon as possible of the decision to withdraw or transfer the student from the education program.  The student or parent should present this written notice at the office and receive instructions regarding the return of textbooks, library books, locker equipment, hot lunch tickets, etc. 

The notice should state the student's final day of attendance.  If the student is not enrolling in another school district, the school district will maintain the student's records in the same manner as the records of students who have graduated from the school district.

If the parents wish to have the student's cumulative record sent to the new school district, the parents must notify the superintendent in writing.  This notice will include the name of the school district and the person at the new school district to whom the student's cumulative records should be sent.  If the new school district requests the student's cumulative records, the school district will forward the cumulative records and notify the parents the records have been sent.  The notice will inform the parents of their right to review the records sent.

If the student is of compulsory education age and not transferring to another public school district or an accredited nonpublic school, the parents will notify the superintendent that the student is receiving competent private instruction and file the necessary competent private instruction reports.

Legal Reference:         

20 U.S.C. § 1232g (2006).

Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 299.1-.1A (2013).

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

506      Student Records

604.1   Competent Private Instruction

Approved  January 2007              Reviewed:  July 2021

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

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

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299

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

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

506      Student Records

Approved January 2007                Reviewed July 2021         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 will attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center.

Student absences approved by the principal are excused absences.  Excused absences will count as days in attendance for purposes of the truancy law.  These absences include, but are not limited to, illness, family emergencies, recognized religious observances, appointments that cannot be scheduled outside the school day and school-sponsored or approved activities.

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 the 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 is the responsibility of the students to initiate a procedure with the student's teacher to complete the work missed.

Students whose absences are approved will make up the work missed and receive full credit for the missed school work.  It is the responsibility of the student to initiate a procedure with the student's teacher to complete the work missed.

Students who wish to participate in school-sponsored activities must attend school one-half day the day of the activity unless permission has been given by the principal for the student to be absent.

It is the responsibility of the parent to notify the student's attendance center as soon as the parent knows the student will not be attending school on that day.  The principal may request evidence or written verification of the student's reason for absence.

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

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299

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

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

503      Student Discipline

504      Student Activities

506      Student Records

Approved January 2007                Reviewed July 2021          Revised    July 2020              

Regular attendance by the students at school is essential for students to obtain the maximum opportunities from the education program.  Parents and students alike are encouraged to ensure an absence from school is a necessary absence.  Students will attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center.

Truancy is the failure to attend school for the minimum number of days established in the school calendar by the board.  Truancy is the act of being absent without a reasonable excuse.  These absences will include, but not be limited to, tardiness, shopping, hunting, concerts, preparation or participation in parties and other celebrations and employment.  Truancy will not be tolerated by the board.

Students are subject to disciplinary action for truancy including suspension and expulsion.  It is within the discretion of the principal to determine, in light of the circumstances, whether a student may make up work missed because of truancy.  Students receiving special education services will not be assigned to supervised study hall, in-school suspension unless the goals and objectives of the student's Individualized Education Program are capable of being met.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.  The administrative regulations will indicate the disciplinary action to be taken for truancy.

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299 (2013).

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

Cross Reference:        

206.3   Secretary

410.3   Truancy Officer

501      Student Attendance

503      Student Discipline

504      Student Activities

506      Student Records

Approved January 2007                Reviewed July 2021         Revised                   

Attendance: School Day Students may be present on school grounds before 7:45 a.m. or after 3:45 p.m. only when they are under the supervision of an employee or an extracurricular activity sponsor. If school is dismissed early, students are expected to leave the school grounds within fifteen minutes of dismissal. General Attendance Policy It is the responsibility of the Cardinal Community School District to ensure that all school members will work to challenge and support students in the pursuit of their highest levels of academic and personal achievement. Recognizing the strong relationship between regular attendance for each class and high academic achievement, the District will establish a clear attendance system. Such a system will promote this relationship and hold students accountable for regular attendance. It is essential that Cardinal Community School District students and their families take responsibility for knowing and following the Attendance Policy. ALL STUDENTS ABSENT FROM SCHOOL MUST HAVE AN EXCUSE. Examples: Medical documented illness (from a doctor or the school nurse) Medical documented appointment (from a physician, dentist, etc.) Funeral (documented with slip from funeral service) Court documented appointment (from Juvenile Court, DHS, etc.) School sponsored activity: A parent or guardian may call their student out of school 6 days per school year for other reasons. (These days are verified, not excused) Any day beyond 6 per semester, without a documented excuse for the absence, is considered unexcused. Steps will begin towards mediation for excessive absenteeism. Reviewing the Steps: 6th Non-Excused Absence- Warning letter notifying parent/guardian that their 6 verifiable days have been reached and requesting documentation for any further absences. 9th Non-Excused Absence- Phone contact and possible home visit 12th Non-Excused Absence- Mandatory Attendance Meeting with At-Risk Coordinator and Administrator: parent or guardian will be served notice & County Attorney will be provided a copy of the notice. Continued Non-Excused Absences- Referred for legal action by the County Attorney. *High School Absence Policy: Students who acquire a total of 15 absences (unexcused) per semester in any particular course may be subjected to the loss of credit for that course. Excessive Absenteeism, Appeals Process, & Application of Sanctions Suspensions from class [either in-school suspensions or out-of-school suspension] will be treated as school- initiated student absences and will not count toward the days absent. However, the student will be required to make up work missed while in suspension. In the event that the work is not completed at the end of the suspension, a time will be designated by the principal to make up the work (guided study, before/after school, Saturday school, additional suspension, etc.) School work missed because of absences must be made up within two times the number of days absent, not to exceed 6 days. The time allowed for make-up work may be extended at the discretion of the classroom teacher. Application of Sanctions Unexcused and excused absences will not be added together to count towards application of sanctions. Excessive unexcused absences will result in the following: If a student is absent more than 15 days unexcused from any given class in a semester, the student may not be eligible to receive credit from that class. If a student loses credit, that fact is recorded in the student's record as an ("AD") [Administrative drop], or “AW" [administrative withdrawal). Students who are absent without a reasonable excuse, as determined by the principal, will be assigned to [guided study hall, detention, early bird school, Saturday school, in-school suspension, or other appropriate disciplinary sanction]. Reasonable excuses include reasons listed under General Attendance Policy. A student who loses credit due to excessive absences may be assigned to [guided study hall, detention, early bird school, Saturday school, in-school suspension, alternative school or other appropriate disciplinary sanction] for the period(s) in which the course(s) meet or the student may be reassigned to another class or location. A student who, after a hearing before the board, loses credit in all courses due to unexcused absences, will not be allowed to participate in any school activities until the following semester. However, the student is eligible to practice if all other eligibility criteria have been met. Appeals First level of appeal When notified that the student has missed 6 (days or class periods), the parent should contact the teacher and principal to discuss the student's attendance and prevent any further absences. When notified that the student has exceeded 12 absences and that the student may be dropped from a class, the student and parent may file a written appeal with the building administrator within 5 school days of the notification. Sanctions imposed under this policy will be final unless a written appeal is submitted to the building administrator. Written appeals will be referred to the building administrator The student will remain in the class or in school pending completion of the appeals process. The informal appeals hearing will be scheduled within 10 school days after the appeal is filed. The SAT will consider the following in reaching a decision: absences caused by religious holidays, documented chronic or extended illness, hospitalization, family death or emergency, emergency medical or dental care, court appearances or other legal situations beyond the control of the family, school-related class or program activities; attendance history of the student; extenuating circumstances particular to the student; educational alternatives to removal from class or school; or the total educational program for the individual student. The decision of the SAT will be reached within one day of the hearing. The parent will be notified of the decision in writing. Second Level of Appeal Students and parents seeking a review of the SAT decision regarding sanctions rendered under this attendance policy may do so by filing a written request for review with the superintendent within five days after the SAT decision. The superintendent will determine an agreeable time, place and date for the review and notify the student and parent. At the conclusion of the review, the superintendent will affirm, reverse or modify the SAT decision. Appeal to Board of Directors Students and parents may appeal the superintendent's decision by filing a written request for review by the board within five days with the board secretary. It is within the discretion of the board to determine whether to hear the appeal. If the appeal is accepted, the board secretary will determine an agreeable time, place and date for the review and notify the interested persons. At the conclusion of the review, the board may affirm, reverse or modify the superintendent's decision. Compulsory Attendance In accordance with the State of Iowa’s compulsory attendance code 299.1A, students who are under the age of 16 years old before September 15 of the current school year are required to be in attendance at school. If a compulsory attendee is absent unexcused 15 times in one school year, the county attorney will be notified. Referral to the county attorney could result in possible investigation and/or prosecution of the parents for truancy. a. First Offense: Up to ten days in jail, or $100 fine, or 40 hours of unpaid community service. a. Second Offense: Up to 20 days in jail and/or $500 fine, or unspecified number community service hours in lieu of fine or jail sentence (serious misdemeanor). Third Offense: Up to 30 days in jail, and/or fine of up to $1000, or an unspecified number of community service hours Attendance Responsibilities of the Students: -It is the responsibility of each student to: Attend all classes on a daily basis. Monitor the total number of absences in each course. Report any errors to the teacher of the course within 3 days of absence. After which, the absence will remain unexcused. Monitor the total number of school authorized absences. When more than three class periods of a specific course are missed during a quarter, the student will appeal to the teacher to be out of the class for any subsequent school authorized activities. Ensure that a parent or guardian calls the attendance office prior to absence or within 24 hours after an absence. Attend every class that is considered to be his/her “official” and “current” schedule. Students should not discontinue attendance to a class if he/she anticipates changing or dropping that class. Until the class is officially dropped and the counselor has provided a new “official” schedule, students are expected to attend each of the classes on their schedule. Failure to do so will constitute an unexcused absence. Report, when ill, to the Health Office. Follow all check-in and check-out procedures. Contact teacher to arrange make-up work. Communicate with a teacher when approaching the limit of school authorized absences. Complete detention for unexcused absences within 48 hours of notification, Ensure that a teacher changes the absence notation to a tardy (within the first 7 minutes,) if a student is late to class. Complete required detention hours within the required timeframe for a truancy absence. Complete all make-up work for all absence types within the allotted time. Tardy Policy Secondary Building: Students are expected to be in their assigned areas at designated times. Being to class on time is essential. Not only are you missing important information, it is a sign of respect toward your teacher and fellow classmates. Students who arrive to class after the final bell are considered tardy. We will be implementing the Genius Hour Bell Schedule, which will have 3-minute passing times between classes. There will not be a bell at the beginning or end of class. The teachers will dismiss students at the appropriate times. A 1-minute warning bell will sound to signify that students have one minute to get to class on time. These policies are put in place with the understanding that students will be getting to class on time before the final bell rings. Teachers will be instructed to strictly mark students tardy that are not in their classrooms before the final bell. In addition, clear consequences for students failing to get to class on time will be stringently enforced. Our tardy policy will be as follows: Per Semester: all classes combined: *6th tardy: mandatory 60 minute after school detention with after school detentions to follow on every three subsequent tardies (9th, 12th, 15th, etc) In addition: Parents and student will meet with At-Risk Coordinator upon the 15th tardy. Parents and student will meet with At-Risk Coordinator and Principal upon the 21st tardy. Student Expectations: Be to class on time. Have a valid pass when not on time. Comply with any consequences associated with this policy. Teacher Expectations: Take attendance within the first five minutes of every class. Hold students accountable when tardy to class. Verify passes when they are presented. Be consistent with the implementation of this policy with all students and all classes equally. Administrator Expectations: Ensure the policy is being enforced by teachers and complied with by students. Issue consequences when necessary and contact parents. Make adjustments to the policy and consequences to ensure success of policy. Parent Expectations: Discuss the importance of arriving to class on time with their child. Support the administration when consequences are issued.

Students will be allowed to leave the school district facilities during school hours only with prior authorization from their parents, unless the parent appears personally at the student's attendance center to arrange for the release of the student during school hours, or with the permission of the principal.

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

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

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code § 294.4

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

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

503      Student Discipline

504      Student Activities

506      Student Records

Approved January 2007                Reviewed July 2021         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 pregnancy, the student may be excused and arrangements made to continue her studies during her absence.  The student will resume classes upon the recommendation of her physician.

Legal Reference:        

Iowa Code §§ 216; 279.8; 280.3

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

604.2   Individualized Instruction

Approved January 2007                Reviewed  July 2021        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. § 1232g (2012).

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

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

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

506      Student Records

Approved January 2007          Reviewed July 2021   Revised                   

The school district will participate in open enrollment as a sending district.  As a sending district, the board will allow resident students who meet the requirements to open enroll to another public school district. 

Parents requesting open enrollment out of the school district for their student will notify the sending and receiving school district  in accordance with district practice.  The notice is made on forms provided by the Iowa Department of Education.  The forms are available at the central administration office.

 Parents of children who will begin kindergarten and prekindergarten children enrolled in special education programs and included in the district’s basic enrollment will file in the same manner set forth above.

The receiving district will approve or deny open enrollment requests according to the timelines established by law.  The parents may withdraw the open enrollment request prior to the  board's approval of the application.  The receiving district’s superintendent will notify the parents and sending school district by mail within five days of the school district’s action to approve or deny the open enrollment request. 

The board may approve a student's request to allow the receiving district to enter the school district for the purposes of transportation.  
       

An open enrollment request out of the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.  The determining factor for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the receiving school district is appropriate for the student's needs.  The area education agency director of special education serving the receiving district will determine whether the program is appropriate.  The special education student will remain in the school district until the final determination is made.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to maintain open enrollment request applications and notice forms.  It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop appropriate office procedures and administrative regulations necessary for open enrollment requests.

Approved  January 2007                     Reviewed July 2021                          Revised  August 2022                

The school district will participate in open enrollment as a receiving district.  As a receiving district, the board will allow nonresident students, who meet the legal requirements, to open enroll into the school district.  The board will have complete discretion to determine the attendance center of the students attending the school district under open enrollment.

The superintendent will take action on the open enrollment request.
 
The superintendent will notify the sending school district and parents within five days of the school district’s action to approve or deny the open enrollment request.  

Open enrollment requests into the school district will not be approved if insufficient classroom space exists.  Open enrollment requests into the school district will also not be approved for students who have been suspended or expelled by the administration or the board of the school district the student is or was attending until the student has been reinstated into the school district from which the student was suspended or expelled.  Once the student is reinstated, the student's open enrollment request will be considered in the same manner as other open enrollment requests provided the required timelines are met.

Open enrollment requests into the school district that, if denied, would result in students from the same nuclear family being enrolled in different school districts, will be given highest priority.  The board, in its discretion, may waive the insufficient classroom space reason for denial for students of the same nuclear family to prevent the division of a nuclear family between two school districts.  Other open enrollment requests into the school district are considered in the order received by the school district with the first open enrollment request given a higher priority than the second open enrollment request and so forth.

Students in grades nine through twelve open enrolling into the school district will be eligible for participation in interscholastic athletics, at the varsity level, in accordance with applicable law. 

Parents of students whose open enrollment requests are approved by the superintendent are responsible for providing transportation to and from the receiving school district without reimbursement.  The board will not approve transportation into the sending district.

An open enrollment request into the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The determining factors for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the school district is appropriate for the student's needs and whether the enrollment of the special education student will cause the class size to exceed the maximum allowed.  The area education agency director of special education serving the school district will determine whether the program is appropriate.  The special education student will remain in the sending district until the final determination is made. For children requiring special education, the receiving district will complete and provide to the resident district the documentation needed to seek Medicaid reimbursement for eligible services.

The policies of the school district will apply to students attending the school district under open enrollment.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop appropriate office procedures and administrative regulations necessary for open enrollment requests.

Approved January 2007                                  Reviewed July 2021           Revised August 2022

HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTH

The Cardinal Community School District 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 [insert employee title] 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.

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy.

NOTE: The United States Department of Education and the Iowa Department of Education have additional information about implementation of the policy. For additional information, please visit:
•    The “Education Department Releases Guidance on Homeless Children and Youth” section of the United States Department of Education’s website, located at: http://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/education-department-releases-guid....
The “Homeless Education” section of the Iowa Department of Education’s website, located at: https://www.educateiowa.gov/pk-12/title-programs/title-x-part-c-homeless...

Legal Reference:    20 U.S.C. § 6301.
    42 U.S.C. § 11302.
    42 U.S.C. §§ 11431 et seq.     
    281 I.A.C. 33.

Cross Reference:    501    Student Attendance
    503.3    Fines - Fees - Charges
    506    Student Records
    507.1    Student Health and Immunization Certificates
    603.3    Special Education
    711.1    Student School Transportation Eligibility

Approved    March 19, 2018                 
Reviewed       July 2021          
Revised                  

Legal Reference:         

No Child Left Behind, Title X, Sec. 722, P.L. 107-110 (2004).

42 U.S.C. §§ 11431 et seq. (2012).

281 I.A.C. 33 (2013).

Cross Reference:        

501      Student Attendance

503.3   Fines - Fees - Charges

506      Student Records

507.1   Student Health and Immunization Certificates

603.3   Special Education

711.1   Student School Transportation Eligibility

Approved January 2007

Reviewed October/November 2015

Revised

The board believes inappropriate student appearance causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors.

Students are expected to adhere to standards of cleanliness and dress that are compatible with the requirements of a good learning environment.  The standards will be those generally acceptable to the community as appropriate in a school setting.

The board expects students to be clean and well-groomed and wear clothes in good repair and appropriate for the time, place and occasion.  Clothing or other apparel promoting products illegal for use by minors and clothing displaying obscene material, profanity, or reference to prohibited conduct are disallowed.  While the primary responsibility for appearance lies with the students and their parents, appearance disruptive to the education program will not be tolerated.  When, in the judgment of a principal, a student's appearance or mode of dress disrupts the educational process or constitutes a threat to health or safety, the student may be required to make modifications.

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

Legal Reference:         

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

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

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

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

Torvik v. Decorah Community School, 453 F.2d 779 (8th Cir. 1972).

Turley v. Adel Community School District, 322 F.Supp. 402 (S.D. Iowa 1971).

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

Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:        

500      Objectives for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students

502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved January 2007               

Reviewed July 2021      

Revised                   

Students will treat school district property with the care and the respect they would treat their own property.  Students found to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school district property may be required to reimburse the school district.  They may be subject to discipline under board policy and the school district rules and regulations.  They may also be referred to local law enforcement authorities.

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

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.4, .5; 613.16

Cross Reference:        

502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

802.1   Maintenance Schedule

Approved January 2007               

Reviewed  July 2021   

Revised                   

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 10 days of the employee's decision.  If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within 10 days after speaking with the principal.

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

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:        

210.8   Board Meeting Agenda

215      Public Participation in Board Meetings

 307      Communication Channels

502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

504.3   Student Publications

Approved January 2007               

Reviewed July 2021       

Revised     January 2022             

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

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

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.14; 808A

Cross Reference:        

502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved  January 2007                    

Reviewed July 2021           

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 or dangerous objects 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 laws.

Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials or other individuals speciically authorized by the board are exempt from this policy.  The superintendent may develop an administrative process or procedure to implement the policy.

Legal Reference:         

No Child Left Behind, Title IV, Sec. 4141, P.L. 107-110 (2002).

Improving America's Schools Act of 1994, P.L. 103-382.

18 U.S.C. § 921 (2012).

McClain v. Lafayette County Bd. of Education, 673 F.2d 106 (5th Cir. 1982).

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 724

281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

Cross Reference:        

502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

503      Student Discipline

507      Student Health and Well-Being

Approved: January 2007

Reviewed: July 2021

Revised:  March 19, 2018

The board prohibits the distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol, tobacco, other controlled substances, or "look alike" substances that appear to be tobacco, beer, wine, alcohol or controlled substances by students while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.

The board believes such illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials generally cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors.

Violation of this policy by students will result in disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.  Use, purchase or being in possession of cigarettes, tobacco or tobacco products for those under the age of eighteen, may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.  Possession, use or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol and/or of a controlled substance may also be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.

Students who violate the terms of this policy may be required to satisfactorily complete a substance abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved by the school board.  If such student fails to satisfactorily complete such a program, the student may be subject to discipline including suspension or expulsion.

The board believes the substance abuse prevention program will include:

• Age-appropriate, developmentally-based drug and alcohol curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through twelve, which address the legal, social, and health consequences of tobacco, drug and alcohol use and which provide information about effective techniques for resisting peer pressure to use tobacco, drugs or alcohol;
• A statement to students that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful;
• Standards of conduct for students that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, being under the influence of or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students on school premises or as part of any of its activities;
• A clear statement that disciplinary sanctions, up to and including suspension or expulsion and referral for prosecution, will be imposed on students who violate the policy and a description of those sanctions;
• A statement that students may be required to successfully complete an appropriate rehabilitation program;
• Information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation and re-entry programs available to students;
• A requirement that parents and students be given a copy of the standards of conduct and the statement of disciplinary sanctions required; and
• Notification to parents and students that compliance with the standards of conduct is mandatory.

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

Legal Reference:         

34 C.F.R. Pt. 86 (2012).

Iowa Code §§ 123.46; 124; 279.8, .9; 453A

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 January 2007               

Reviewed July 2021    

Revised    

School district property is held in public trust by the board.  School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search students or protected student areas based on a reasonable and articulable suspicion that a school district policy, rule, regulation or law has been violated.  The search is in a manner reasonable in scope to maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students, employees and visitors to the school district facilities.  The furnishing of a locker, desk or other facility or space owned by the school and provided as a courtesy to a student, even if the student provides the lock for it, will not create a protected student area and will not give rise to an expectation of privacy with respect to the locker, desk, or other facility.

School authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search.  Items of contraband may include, but are not limited to, nonprescription controlled substances, marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, apparatus used for controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco/nicotine, weapons, explosives, poisons and stolen property.  Such items are not to be possessed by a student while they are on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/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.  Possession of such items will be grounds for disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion and may be reported to local law enforcement officials.  The board believes that illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials may cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.

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

Legal Reference:         

U.S. Const. amend. IV.

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

Cason v. Cook, 810 F.2d 188 (8th Cir. 1987), cert. den., 482 U.S. 930 (1987).

Iowa Code ch. 808A

281 I.A.C. 12.3(8).

Cross Reference:        

502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

503      Student Discipline

Approved January 2007               

Reviewed July 2021    

Revised       January 2021           

Generally, students may not be interviewed during the school day by persons other than parents and school district officials and employees.

Requests from law enforcement officers and from persons other than parents, school district officials, and employees to interview students are made through the principal's office.  Upon receiving a request, it is the responsibility of the principal to determine whether the request will be granted.  Generally, prior to granting a request, the principal will attempt to contact the parents to inform them of the request and to ask them to be present.

If a child abuse investigator wishes to interview a student, the principal will defer to the investigator's judgment as to whether the student should be interviewed independently from the student's parents, whether the school is the most appropriate setting for the interview, and who will be present during the interview.

Students will not be taken from school without the consent of the principal and without proper warrant.

Legal Reference:        

Iowa Code §§ 232; 280.17

281 I.A.C. 102.

441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.

1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 275.

Cross Reference:        

402.2   Child Abuse Reporting

502.8   Search and Seizure

503      Student Discipline

902.2   Students and the News Media

Approved January 2007               

Reviewed July 2021       

Revised                   

The board recognizes the convenience to families and students of having students drive to and park at their school attendance center.  Driving a motor vehicle to and parking it at the student's attendance center is a privilege.

Students who drive to and park at their school attendance center shall only drive to and park at their designated attendance center.  Students may not loiter around or be in their vehicle during the school day without permission from the principal.  Students shall leave their attendance center when there is no longer a legitimate reason for them to be at their attendance center.  Students who drive shall enter and leave the parking lot by the routes designated by the principal. 

Students who live within one mile of school, and would not otherwise be eligible for a student driving permit, may be eligible for a student driving permit, for driving to and from school and school activities and practices, if the student has completed all drivers education requirements.

Students who wish to drive to and park at their school attendance center shall comply with the rules and regulations established by the building principal.  Failure to comply with this policy or the school district rules shall be reason for revocation of school driving and parking privileges as well as other disciplinary action including suspension and expulsion.

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 321

Cross Reference:        

502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved January 2007                     

Reviewed July 2021             

Revised                   

Harassment of students by other students will not be tolerated in the school district. This policy is in effect while students are on school grounds, school district property, or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school –owned and/or school-operated vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management of the school district and directly affects the welfare of the student and school district.

Harassment prohibited by the school district includes, but is not limited to, harassment, including bullying, on the basis of race, sex, creed, color, national origin, religion, marital status or disability. Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy after an investigation be disciplined, up to an including, suspension and expulsion.

Sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student’s performance or creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile learning environment.

Sexual harassment as set out  above, may include, but is not limited to the following:

• Verbal or written harassment or abuse;
• Pressure for sexual activity;
• Repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications;
• Unwelcoming toughing;
• Suggesting or demanding sexual involvement, accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning one’s grades, achievements, etc.
• Harassment on the basis of race, creed, color religion, national origin, marital status or disability means         conduct of a verbal or physical nature that is designed to unreasonably embarrass distress, agitate, disturb         performance or creating an intimidating, offensive or hostile learning environment.

Harassment as set forth above may include, but is not limited to the following:

• Verbal, physical or written harassment, 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 student 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 effective harassment prevention strategies. The superintendent will also develop a process for evaluating the effectiveness 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. (1994).

Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 280.3 (2005).

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

Cross Reference:        

403.6   Harassment

502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

503      Student Discipline

506      Student Records

Approved January 2007                     

Reviewed July 2021              

Revised May 2014 

Approved January 2007                     

Reviewed July 2021                 

Revised April/May 2014 

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 sactions 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:

No Child Left Behind Act, Pub. L. No. 107-110, 115 Stat. 1425 (2002).

Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).

Brands v. Sheldon Community School District, 671 F. Supp. 627 (N.D. Iowa 1987). Sims v. Colfax Comm. School Dist., 307 F. Supp. 485 (Iowa 1970). Bunger v. Iowa High School Athletic Assn., 197 N.W.2d 555 (Iowa 1972). Board of Directors of Ind. School Dist. of Waterloo v. Green, 259 Iowa 1260, 147 N.W.2d 854 (Iowa 1967). Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.4, .5; 708.1 (2013).

. Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

504 Student Activities 603.3 Special Education

903.5 Distribution of Materials

Reviewed:  July 2021

Revised:  January 2021

Only the board may remove a student from the school environment. The removal of a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, is an expulsion from school.

Students may be expelled for violations of board policy, school rules or the law. It is within the discretion of the board to discipline a student by using an expulsion for a single offense or for a series of offenses depending on the nature of the offense and the circumstances surrounding the offense.

It is within the discretion of the superintendent to recommend to the board the expulsion of a student for disciplinary purposes. Only the board may take action to expel a student and to readmit the student. The principal will keep records of expulsions in addition to the board's records.

When a student is recommended for expulsion by the board, the student is provided with:

1. Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion;

2. The names of the witnesses and an oral or written report on the facts to which each witness testifies unless the witnesses are students whose names may be released at the discretion of the superintendent;

3. An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide either oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student's behalf;

4. The right to be represented by counsel; and,

5. The results and finding of the board in writing open to the student's inspection.

In addition to these procedures, a special education student must be provided with additional procedures. A determination should be made of whether the student is actually guilty of the misconduct. A staffing team should determine whether the student's behavior is caused by the student's disability and whether the conduct is the result of inappropriate placement. Discussions and conclusions of this meeting should be recorded.

If the special education student's conduct is not caused by the disability, the student may be expelled or suspended for a long-term period following written notice to the parent and pursuant to the school district's expulsion hearing procedures. If the misconduct is caused by the disability and a change in placement is recommended, the change must be made pursuant to the placement procedures used by the school district.

Legal Reference:

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

Wood v. Strickland, 420 U.S. 308 (1975).

Southeast Warren Comm. School District v. Dept. of Public Instruction, 285 N.W.2d 173 (Iowa 1979).

Iowa Code §§ 21.5; 282.3, .4, .5

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

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

Approved January 2007

Reviewed July 2021

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 256.7(20); 279.8; 280.10, .11; 282.6; 285.1; 301.1

281 I.A.C. 18.

1994 Op. Att'y Gen. 23.

1990 Op. Att'y Gen. 79.

1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 227.

1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 532.

Cross Reference:

501.16 Homeless Children & Youth

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline Approved January 2007

Reviewed July 2021

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

281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 36.15(1).

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline 504 Student Activities

Approved January 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised

Legal Reference:

Ingraham v. Wright, 430 U.S. 651 (1977).

Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).

Tinkham v. Kole, 252 Iowa 1303, 110 N.W.2d 258 (1961).

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21.

281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 103.

Cross Reference:

402.3 Abuse of Students by School District Employees

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

503.6 Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students

Approved January 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised   January 2021

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 nonmonetary 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, Mechanical Restraint and Prone Restraint

Approved January 2021

Reviewed  July 2021

Revised                   

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

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

504 Student Activities

Approved January 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised

Secondary school student-initiated, noncurriculum-related groups and student curriculum-related groups, upon receiving permission from the principal, may use school facilities for group meetings during non-instructional time.

Non-instructional time will mean any time before the first period of the day and after the last period of the day in which any student attends class. Meetings will not interfere with the orderly conduct of the education program or other school district operations. It is within the discretion of the principal to determine whether the meetings will interfere with the orderly conduct of the education program or other school district operations. Activities relating to and part of the education program will have priority over the activities of another organization.

Curriculum-Related Organizations

It will also be the responsibility of the principal to determine whether a student group is curriculum-related. One or more of the following questions will be answered affirmatively if the group is curriculum-related:

• Is the subject matter of the group actually taught in a regularly offered course?

Will the subject matter of the group soon be taught in a regularly offered course?

• Does the subject matter of the group concern the body of courses as a whole?

• Is participation in the group required for a particular course?

• Does participation in the group result in academic credit?

Secondary school curriculum-related student organizations may use the school district facilities for meetings and other purposes before and after the instructional school day. Employees are assigned to monitor approved meetings and may interact with curriculum-related organizations.

Noncurriculum-Related Organizations

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

Only students may attend and participate in meetings of noncurriculum-related groups. Such attendance is 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 will 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. Revised Code No. 504.2 Page 2 of 2 STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS It is 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 (2012).

Iowa Code §§ 287.1-.3; 297.9

Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

504 Student Activities

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

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

Any expression made by students, including student expression in official school publications, is not an expression of official school policy. The school district, the board, and the employees or officials are not liable in any civil or criminal action for any student expression made or published by students unless the employees or officials have interfered with or altered the content of the student speech or expression. The liability, if any, is only to the extent of the interference or alteration of the speech or expression.

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

Persons, other than students, who believe they have been aggrieved by student expression in a student-produced official school publication will follow the grievance procedure outlined in board policy 214. Students who believe their freedom of expression in a student-produced official school publication has been restricted will follow the grievance procedure outlined in board policy 502.4.

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:

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

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

owa Code § 280.22

Cross Reference:

309 Communication Channels

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities 5

04 Student Activities

903.5 Distribution of Material

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:

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

Iowa Code §§ 280.13-.14 (2013). 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 February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

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.

All funds generated from district-sponsored student fundraising will be placed in the district's activity fund.

It is 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 § 279.8

Cross Reference:

402.9 Solicitations from Outside

502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

503 Student Discipline

504 Student Activities

704.5 Student Activities Fund

904.2 Advertising and Promotion

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised   August 2022

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

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

Student activity events must be approved by the superintendent unless they involve unusual travel expense, in which case the board will take action. The events must not disrupt the education program or other school district operations.

A high school student who participates in school sponsored athletics may participate in a non-school sponsored sport during the same season.

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

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

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. §§ 1681-1683; 1685-1686 (2012).

34 C.F.R. Pt. 106.41 (2012).

Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 280.13-.14

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 February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised

School-sponsored social events shall be approved by the principal and placed on the school calendar prior to public announcements. They shall be under the control and supervision of employees. The hours and activities of the event shall be reasonable and in keeping with board policy.

School-sponsored social events are open to the students enrolled in the school district. Others, such as alumni or nonschool students, may attend as the date or escort of students enrolled in the school district or with the permission of the licensed employees supervising the event.

Student’s behavior shall be in keeping with the behavior required during regular school hours.

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.3

Cross Reference:        

404      Employee Conduct and Appearance

502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

503      Student Discipline

Approved July 2000                     

Reviewed  July 2021     

Revised                   

Coordination of education programs with local businesses can benefit the school district community. When mutually acceptable arrangements can be made between a local business and the board, secondary students may work for a local business to obtain school credit.

Such programs must be compatible with the education program and have the approval of the board.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to pursue such arrangements with local businesses.

Legal Reference:         

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.3

Cross Reference:        

603      Instructional Curriculum

Approved July 2000                     

Reviewed  July 2021     

Revised                   

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

Parent-teacher conferences will be held tin the fall and spring.

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 §§ 256.11, .11A; 256E.1(1)(b)(1), 280

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

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

506 Student Records

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised

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.

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                       Reviewed     July 2021                   Revised    March 19, 2018             

The school district will provide a program that establishes honors and awards including, but not limited to, academic letters, scholarships and good citizenship awards for students to assist students in setting goals. Students are made aware of honors and awards and the action necessary on the part of the student to achieve them. Students, who have not attended an accredited public or private school for their entire high school education, will not be eligible for honors and awards.

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 279.8

504 Student Activities

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

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 States 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:

   • 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

   • 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.

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:

No Child Left Behind, Title II, Sec. 1061, P.L. 107-110 (2012).

Goals 2000: Educate America Act, Pub. L. No. 103-227, 108 Stat. 125 (2012).

20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2012).

Iowa Code §§ 280.3;

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

506 Student Records 607.2 Student Health Services

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021
Revised  March 19, 2018

Students must successfully complete the courses required by the board and Iowa Department of Education in order to graduate.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure that students complete grades one through twelve and that high school students complete the necessary credits prior to graduation. The following credits will be required:

The required courses of study will be reviewed by the board annually. Graduation requirements for special education students  will include successful completion of four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and three years of science.

Students who completed a regular session in the Legislative Page Program of the general assembly at the state capitol will be credited 1/2 credit years of social studies.

Students enrolled in a junior officer's training corp will receive 1/8th physical education credit for each semester the student is enrolled in the program.

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A; 279.8; 280.3, .14

281 I.A.C. 12.2, .5.

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

603.3 Special Education

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised:  August 2022

Generally, students will be required to complete the necessary course work and graduate from high school at the end of grade twelve. Students may graduate prior to this time if they meet the minimum graduation requirements stated in board policy.

A student who graduates early will no longer be considered a student and will become an alumnus of the school district. However, the student who graduates early may participate in commencement exercises.

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14

281 I.A.C. 12.2; .5.

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised:  September 2017

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

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14

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

Cross Reference:

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised

Parental and family involvement 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.

The board will:

(1) will 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;

(2) will provide the coordination, technical assistance and other support necessary to assist participating schools in planning and implementing effective parent and family involvement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance;

(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;

(4) Conduct with the involvement of parents and family members, an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness of the parental and family engagement involvement policy in improving the academic quality of the school served including identifying barriers to greater participation by parents in Title I activities (with particular attention to low-income parents, Limited English Proficient (LEP) parents, minorities, parents with disabilities and parents with low literacy) and use the findings of the evaluation to design strategies for more effective parental involvement and to revise, as necessary, the parental involvement policies;

(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; and,

(6) Involve parents in Title I activities.

The board will review this policy annually. The superintendent is responsible for notifying parents of this policy annually or within a reasonable time after it has been amended during the school year. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy

Legal References:

No Child Left Behind, Title I, Sec. 1118, P.L. 107-110. (2002)

Cross References:

903.2 Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised  March 19, 2018

Student shall take a predetermined number and type of courses to graduate. Where students have a choice in course offerings, the school district will try to allow students to take the course of their choice. Courses with limited space will be allocated to those who first apply for the course or need it for graduation.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the course offerings for each year for the grade levels. The superintendent shall make a recommendation to the board annually as to which courses shall be offered.

Legal References:       

Iowa Code §§ 256.11,. .11A; 280 (2013).

281 I.A.C. 12.1; .3(7); .5.

Cross References:       

505      Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved July 2000

Reviewed September 2016

Revised

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

[The school district will cooperate with the juvenile justice system in sharing information contained in permanent student records regarding students who have become involved with the juvenile justice system.  The school district will enter into an interagency agreement with the juvenile justice 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:  This is a mandatory policy.

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     March 19, 2018                
Reviewed       July 2021          
Revised                  

Directory information is information contained in the education records of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. The district may disclose "directory information" to third parties without consent if it has given public notice of the types of information which it has designated as "directory information," the parent's or eligible student's right to restrict the disclosure of such information, and the period of time within which a parent or eligible student has to notify the school in writing that he or she does not want any or all of those types of information designated as "directory information."  The district has designated the following 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 attended
•    Student ID number, user ID, or other unique personal identifier used to communicate in electronic systems that cannot be used to access education records without a PIN, password, etc.  (A student’s SSN, in whole or in part, cannot be used for this purpose.)   

Student is defined as an enrolled individual, PK-12 including children in school district sponsored child-care programs.  

Prior to developing a student directory or to giving general information to the public, parents (including parents of students open enrolled out of the school district and parents of children home schooled in the school district) will be given notice annually of the intent to develop a directory or to give out general information and have the opportunity to deny the inclusion of their child's information in the directory or in the general information about the students.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to provide notice and to determine the method of notice that will inform parents.

Legal Reference:     20 U.S.C. § 1232g.
    34 C.F.R. § 99.
    Iowa Code § 22; 622.10.
    281 I.A.C. 12.3(4); 41.
    

Cross Reference:    504    Student Activities
    506    Student Records
    901    Public Examination of School District Records
    902.4    Live Broadcast or videotaping

Approved     July 2021                
Reviewed                  
Revised                  

The board will permit student "portrait" photographs to be taken on school premises by a commercial photographer as a service to the students and their families.

Parents will be notified prior to the taking of pictures by a commercial photographer for student "portraits." In no case will students be required to have their picture taken or be pressured to purchase pictures.

Students or commercial photographers may take pictures of students upon consent for such things as the yearbook or student newspaper.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative rules regarding student photographs.

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 279.8

1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 114.

Cross Reference:

506 Student Records

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised

Student library circulation records are designed to be used internally to assist in the orderly administration of the school district libraries. As a general rule, student library circulation records are considered confidential records and will not be released without parental consent. Individuals who may access such records include a student's parents, the student, authorized licensed employees, authorized government officials from the U.S. Comptroller General, the Secretary of Education, the Commissioner and Director of the National Institute of Education, and the Assistant Secretary for Education and State Education Department. Appropriate authorities in a health or safety emergency may access the student's library circulation records without the approval or the notification of the student's parents. Parents may not access records, without the student's permission, of a student who has reached the age of majority or who is attending a post-secondary educational institution unless the student is considered a dependent for tax purposes.

It is the teacher-librarian's responsibility, as the person maintaining the student library circulation records, to approve requests for access to student library circulation records. Students' library circulation records may be accessed during the regular business hours of the school district. If copies of documents are requested, a fee for such copying may be charged.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the teacher or teacher-librarian, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. § 1232g (2012).

34 C.F.R. Pt. 99 (2012). Iowa Code §§ 22

281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), (12).

1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720, 825.

Cross Reference:

506 Student Records

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised

Students desiring to participate in athletic activities or enrolling in kindergarten or first grade in the school district will have a physical examination by a licensed physician and provide proof of such an examination to the school district. A physical examination and proof of such an examination may be required by the administration for students in other grades enrolling for the first time in the school district.

A certificate of health stating the results of a physical examination and signed by the physician is on file at the attendance center. Each student will submit an up-to-date certificate of health upon the request of the superintendent. Failure to provide this information may be grounds for disciplinary action.

Students enrolling for the first time in the school district will also submit a certificate of immunization against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, rubeola, rubella, and other immunizations required by law. The student may be admitted conditionally to the attendance center if the student has not yet completed the immunization process but is in the process of doing so. Failure to meet the immunization requirement will be grounds for suspension, expulsion or denial of admission. Upon recommendation of the Iowa Department of Education and Iowa Department of Public Health, students entering the district for the first time may be required to pass a TB test prior to admission. The district may conduct TB tests of current students.

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 13A.8; 280.13

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 February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised

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 804.05 – Stock Prescription Medication Supply.

When administration of the medication requires ongoing professional health judgment, an individual health plan shall be developed by an authorized practitioner with the student and the student's parent.  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, airway constricting diseases, respiratory distress or students at risk of anaphylaxis who use epinephrine auto-injectors may self-administer their medication upon the written approval of the student’s parents and prescribing licensed health care professional regardless of competency.   

Persons administering medication shall include authorized practitioners, such as licensed registered nurses and physician, and persons to whom authorized practitioners have delegated the administration of medication (who have successfully completed a medication administration course).  A medication administration course and periodic update shall be conducted by a registered nurse or licensed pharmacist, and 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.  Emergency protocols for medication-related reactions shall be posted.  Medication information shall be confidential information as provided by law

Disposal of unused, discontinued/recalled, or expired 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 needs 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: Disposal procedures reflect the Iowa Department of Education School Medication Waste Guidance, issued in May 2015.

Legal Reference:

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

Education [281] IAC §41.404(3)

Pharmacy [657] IAC §8.32(124, 155A)

Nursing Board [655] IAC §6.2(152)

Cross Reference:

06 Student Records

507 Student Health and Well-Being

603.3 Special Education

607.2 Student Health Services

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised   August 2022

Students with a communicable disease will be allowed to attend school provided their presence does not create a substantial risk of illness or transmission to other students or employees. The term "communicable disease" will mean an infectious or contagious disease spread from person to person, or animal to person, or as defined by law.

Prevention and control of communicable diseases is included in the school district's bloodborne pathogens exposure control plan. The procedures will include scope and application, definitions, exposure control, methods of compliance, universal precautions, vaccination, post-exposure evaluation, follow-up, communication of hazards to employees and record keeping. This plan is reviewed annually by the superintendent and school nurse.

The health risk to immunosupressed students is determined by their personal physician. The health risk to others in the school district environment from the presence of a student with a communicable disease is determined on a case-by-case basis by the student's personal physician, a physician chosen by the school district or public health officials.

A student who is at school and who has communicable disease which creates a substantial risk of harm to other students, employees, or others at school shall report the condition to the superintendent any time the student is aware that the disease actively creates such risk.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the school nurse, to develop administrative regulations stating the procedures for dealing with students with a communicable disease.

Legal Reference:

School Board of Nassau County v. Arline, 480 U.S. 273 (1987).

29 U.S.C. §§ 701 et seq. (2012).

45 C.F.R. Pt. 84.3 (2012).

Iowa Code ch. 139A.8

641 I.A.C. 1.2-.5, 7.

Cross Reference:

403.3 Communicable Diseases - Employees

506 Student Records 507 Student Health and Well-Being

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised

When a student becomes ill or is injured at school, the school district will attempt to notify the student's parents as soon as possible.

The school district, while not responsible for medical treatment of an ill or injured student, will have employees present administer emergency or minor first aid if possible. An ill or injured child will be turned over to the care of the parents or qualified medical employees as quickly as possible.

It is the responsibility of the principal to file an accident report with the superintendent within twenty-four hours after the student is injured.

Annually, parents are required to complete a medical emergency authorization form indicating the procedures to be followed, if possible, in an emergency involving their child. The authorization form will also include the phone numbers of the parents and alternative numbers to call in case of an injury or illness.

The superintendent is responsible, in conjunction with the school nurse, to develop rules and regulations governing the procedure in the event a student should become ill or be injured at school.

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 613.17

Cross Reference:

507 Student Health and Well-Being

Approved February 2007

Reviewed July 2021

Revised

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

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

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code § 100.31

Cross Reference:

507 Student Health and Well-Being

711.7 School Bus Safety Instruction

804 Safety Program

Approved February 2007