500 Series: Students

STUDENT ATTENDANCE

Revised 8/24	501.1 Compulsory Attendance
Reviewed 10/23	501.2 Entrance Admissions
Reviewed 10/23	501.3 Attendance Center Assignment
Reviewed 10/23	501.4 Student Attendance Records
Reviewed 10/23	501.5 Resident Students
Revised 8/23	501.6 Non-Resident Students
Revised 10/23	501.7 Foreign Exchange Students
Reviewed 10/23	501.9 Student Transfers In
Reviewed 10/23	501.10 Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals
Revised 8/24	501.11 Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy
Adopted 8/24	501.11-R Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy Regulation
Reviewed 10/23	501.13 Student Release
Reviewed 10/23	501.14 Students of Legal Age
Reviewed 10/23	501.15 Homeless Children and Youth
Revised 10/23	501.15-R Regulations Regarding Homeless Children and Youth

BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE

Revised 2/24	502.1 Student Conduct
Revised 2/24	502.1-R Regulations Regarding Student Conduct Procedures and Due Process
Revised 2/24	502.2 Expulsion
Reviewed 10/23	502.2-R Regulations Regarding Student Expulsion Procedures
Revised 8/24	502.3 Student Substance Use
Reviewed 10/23	502.4 Search and Seizure
Revised 11/23	502.4-R Regulations Regarding Search and Seizure
Revised 10/23	502.4-E Search and Seizure Checklist
Reviewed 10/23	502.5 Co/Extra-Curricular Conduct Policy
Reviewed 10/23	502.5-R1 Regulations Regarding Co/Extra-Curricular Conduct for Students
Reviewed 10/23	502.5-R2 Regulations Regarding Co/Extra-Curricular Conduct Philosophy and Parent Responsibility
Reviewed 10/23	502.5-R3 Regulations Regarding Co/Extra-Curricular Conduct Suspension of Participation
Reviewed 10/23	502.6 High School Academic Eligibility for Co/Extra-Curricular Activities
Reviewed 10/23	502.7 Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint, and Prone Restraint
Revised 8/24	502.8 Weapons
Reviewed 10/23	502.8-R Regulations Regarding Weapons
Reviewed 10/23	502.9 Student Appearance
Reviewed 10/23	502.10 Care of School Property/Vandalism
Reviewed 10/23	502.11 Student Expression and Student Publications
Reviewed 10/23	502.11-R Regulations Regarding Student Expression and Student Publications
Revised 10/23	502.12 Student Complaints and Grievances
Reviewed 10/23	502.13 Student Lockers
Reviewed 10/23	502.14 Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion of Students
Revised 10/23	502.14-R Regulations Regarding Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion of Students
Reviewed 10/23	502.14-E1 Documentation of Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion of Students
Reviewed 10/23	502.14-E2 Notice of Debriefing Meeting Regarding Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion of Students
Reviewed 10/23	502.14-E3 Documentation of Debriefing Meeting Regarding Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion of Students
Adopted 11/23	502.15 Discipline of Students Who Make Threats of Violence or Cause Incidents of Violence
Adopted 2/24	502.15-R Student Threats of Violence and Incidents of Violence Regulation

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Reviewed 10/23	503.1 Student Government
Reviewed 10/23	503.2 Student Organizations
Reviewed 10/23	503.4 Student Activity Program
Reviewed 10/23	503.5 Reserved Time for Non-School-Sponsored Student Activities
Reviewed 10/23	503.6 Attendance at Events Outside of School
Reviewed 10/23	503.7 Honors and Awards
Reviewed 10/23	503.8 Intramural Activities
Revised 10/23	503.10 Student Travel
Reviewed 10/23	503.11 Public Performances by Students
Reviewed 10/23	503.12 Contests and Honor Recognitions for Students

STUDENT HEALTH AND SAFETY

Revised 8/24	504 Student Health Services
Adopted 8/23	504-R Regulations Regarding Student Health Services
Reviewed 10/23	504.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates
Reviewed 10/23	504.1-E Immunization Requirements
Reviewed 10/23	504.2 Communicable Diseases
Reviewed 10/23	504.2-R Regulations Regarding Communicable Diseases
Revised 10/23	504.2-E1 Communicable Diseases Chart
Reviewed 10/23	504.2-E2 Communicable Diseases Outbreak
Reviewed 10/23	504.2-E3 Diseases Reportable to Iowa Department of Health & Human Services
Reviewed 10/23	504.2-E4 Disease Reporting Card
Reviewed 10/23	504.3 Student Injury or Illness at School
Reviewed 10/23	504.3-R Regulations Regarding Management of Medical Emergency
Revised 8/23	504.31 Administration of Medication to Students
Revised 8/23	504.31-E1 Parent/Guardian Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Medication or Special Health Services to Students
Revised 8/23	504.31-E2 Authorization-Asthma, Airway Constricting, or Respiratory Distress Medication Self-Administration Consent Form
Adopted 8/23	504.31-E3 Parent/Guardian Authorization and Release Form for Independent Self Carry and Administration of Prescribed Medication or Independent Delivery of Health Services by the Student
Adopted 8/23	504.31-E4 Parent/Guardian Authorization and Release Form for Administration of Voluntary School Stock of Over-the-Counter Medication to Students
Revised 8/23	504.32 Stock Prescription Medication Supply
Adopted 10/23	504.32-E Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of a Voluntary School Supply of Stock Medication for Life-Threatening Incidents
Reviewed 10/23	504.5 Use of Motor Vehicles
Reviewed 10/23	504.7 Emergency School Closings
Reviewed 10/23	504.10 Emergency Drills
Reviewed 10/23	504.11 Student Special Health Services
Revised 8/24	504.11-R Regulations Regarding Student Special Health Services
Revised 10/23	504.12 Wellness
Adopted 10/23	504.12-R Regulations Regarding Wellness
Adopted 4/22	504.13 Transgender and Students Nonconforming to Gender Role Stereotypes
Adopted 8/23	504.14 Student Disclosure of Identity
Revised 9/24	504.14-E1 Report of Student Disclosure of Identity
Adopted 8/23	504.14-E2 Request to Update Student Identity

MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS

Reviewed 10/23	505.2 Internal Accounts
Reviewed 10/23	505.3 Fines, Fees, and Charges
Reviewed 10/23	505.3-R Regulations Regarding Student Fee Waiver and Reduction Procedures
Revised 9/24	505.3-E Standard Fee Waiver Application
Reviewed 10/23	505.4 Commencement
Reviewed 10/23	505.5 Interviews with Students by Outside Agencies
Reviewed 10/23	505.5-R Regulations Regarding Interviews with Students by Outside Agencies
Revised 10/23	505.52 Child and Dependent Adult Abuse Reporting by Licensed Personnel
Revised 10/23	505.52-R Regulations Regarding Child and Dependent Adult Abuse Reporting by Licensed Personnel
Revised 10/23	505.6 Education Records Access
Reviewed 10/23	505.6-R Regulations Regarding Use of Education Records
Reviewed 10/23	505.6-E2 Request of Non-Parent for Examination or Copies of Education Records
Reviewed 10/23	505.6-E3 Parental Authorization for Release of Education Records
Reviewed 10/23	505.6-E4 Request for Hearing on Correction of Education Records
Reviewed 10/23	505.6-E5 Parental Request for Examination of Education Records
Reviewed 10/23	505.6-E6 Notification of Transfer of Education Records
Reviewed 10/23	505.6-E7 Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of Subpoena or Court Order
Reviewed 10/23	505.62 Student Directory Information
Reviewed 10/23	505.62-R Regulations Regarding the Use of Student Directory Information
Reviewed 10/23	505.62-E Parental Authorization for Withholding Student Directory Information
Revised 10/23	505.63 Family and Educational Rights and Privacy Act Student Education Records Annual Notice
Revised 10/23	505.7 Parent and Family Engagement
Reviewed 10/23	505.7-R Parent and Family Engagement Building-Level Regulations
Reviewed 10/23	505.8 Custodial and Parental Rights
Reviewed 10/23	505.9 Student Library Circulation Records
Reviewed 10/23	505.10 Student Photographs

501 - Student Attendance

501.1 - Compulsory Attendance

Parents within the school district who have children over age 6 and under age 16 by September 15^th, 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.

A child who has reached the age of 5 by September 15^th, and who is enrolled in the school district, shall be considered to be of compulsory attendance age unless the parent/legal guardian of the child notifies the school district in writing of their intent to remove the child from enrollment in the school district.

A child who has reached the age of 4 by September 15^th, and who is enrolled in the statewide preschool program under Chapter 256C, shall be considered to be of compulsory attendance age unless the parent/legal guardian of the child submits written notice to the school district implementing the program of their intent to remove the child from enrollment in the preschool program.

Students will attend school the number of days or hours school is in session in accordance with the school calendar. Students of compulsory attendance age will attend school a minimum of 90% of the approved calendar days or hours. Students not attending the minimum days or hours must be exempted by this policy as listed below or referred to the county attorney.

Exceptions to this policy include children who:

Have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or have obtained a high school equivalency diploma;
Are excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or judge;
Are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
Are unable to attend school due to legitimate medical reasons;
Has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that affects the child's attendance;
Has a plan under Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. §794) that affects the child's attendance;
Are attending an approved or 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.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 9/20
Revised: 5/11; 10/17; 2/21; 10/23; 8/24
Related Policy: 501.11; 501.11-R; 601.2
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 259A; 279.10-11; 299; 299.A
Iowa Senate File 2435
IASB Reference: 501.03
Mandatory Policy

501.2 - Entrance Admissions

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

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

Prior to enrollment, the parent/legal guardian must provide the administration with their child’s health and immunization certificate. Failure to provide this information within the time period set by the superintendent [or designee] is reason for suspension, expulsion, or denying admission to the student.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/13; 2/21; 6/21
Related Policy: 500.1; 501.1
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 139A.8; 144.45(5); 282.1, .3, .6
IASB Reference: 501.04

501.3 - Attendance Center Assignment

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

Parents/legal guardians of siblings who are in the same grade level academically, in grades kindergarten through fourth grade, may request 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 14 days after the children’s first day of attendance during the school year. If a valid request is received by the principal, the request must be honored. While a parent/legal guardian may make a placement request that siblings be placed together or apart, district administration retains complete discretion to select the classroom teachers to which siblings are assigned. If after the initial grading period following the placement of siblings in the same or different classrooms the 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 [or designee] to make a recommendation to the board annually regarding the assigned attendance center for each student. In making the recommendation, the superintendent [or designee] will consider the geographical layout of the school district, the condition and location of the district facilities, the location of student population, possible transportation challenges, the financial condition of the district, and other factors deemed relevant by the superintendent [or designee] or the board.

The primary purpose of the school boundary attendance plan is to obtain uniform class sizes throughout the district.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 10/23
Revised: 8/06; 9/20
Related Policy: 500.1; 501.1
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.11; 282.7-.8
IASB Reference: 501.05

501.4 - Student Attendance Records

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

It is the responsibility of the principals [or designee] to ensure that such reports are filed with the board secretary as the custodian of school records.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Related Policy: 500.1; 501.1; 505.6
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 294.4; 299; 281 IAC 12.3(4)
IASB Reference: 501.08

501.5 - Resident Students

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

The residence of a student means the place, abode, or dwelling of the student. Generally, the legal dwelling of minors is the same as their parents. A student may establish a dwelling with someone other than their 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 [or designee].

Prior to knowingly enrolling an individual who is required to register as a sex offender under Iowa Code Chapter 692A, but who is otherwise eligible to enroll in the district, the school board will determine the educational placement of the individual.

Upon receipt of notice that a student who is enrolled in the district is required to register as a sex offender under Chapter 692A, the school board will determine the educational placement of the student.

The tentative agenda for the meeting of the Board of Directors; at which the school board will consider such enrollment or educational placement, will specifically state that the board is considering the enrollment or educational placement of an individual who is required to register as a sex offender under Chapter 692A. If the individual is denied enrollment in the district under this section, the school district of residence will provide the individual with educational services in an alternative setting.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/2010/23
Revised: 9/98; 8/17
Related Policy: 500.1; 501.1
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): 257.6; 282.2, .6-.7; 285.4
IASB Reference: 501.01

501.6 - Non-Resident Students

Students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school but who are not legal residents of the district may be admitted into the 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 district after the start of the semester and who wish to complete the semester in their former resident district will be permitted to attend. Students who plan to open enroll to their former resident district for the next school year may do so without approval of the school board.

Students in grades 11 and 12 who are no longer residents of the 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 district for the purposes of administration.

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

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20
Revised: 7/13; 8/23
Related Policy: 500.1; 501.1; 602.23-25
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 257.6; 282.1-.2, .6-.7, .11, .24
IASB Reference: 501.02

501.7 - Foreign Exchange Students

Foreign exchange students must meet all district entrance requirements including age, place of residence, and immunization. Qualified foreign exchange students may be enrolled and attend school without charge if they are recommended by the high school building principal and reside within the boundaries of the district or whose host family is open enrolled into the district.

Students who are citizens of a foreign country will be considered residents if they meet one of the following requirements:

The student resides with their parents/legal guardians;
The student is in the United States with appropriate documentation (Form I-20) from the US Department of Justice-Immigration and Naturalization Services; or
The student is a participate in a recognized foreign exchange program; and
The student is physically able to attend school and has provided the school district with such proof; including a current TB test.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee] to review and approve organizations that wish to place foreign exchange students at the high school. The school board reserves the right to limit the number of foreign exchange students accepted.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20
Revised: 8/02; 11/17; 10/23
Related Policy: 500.1; 501.1; 501.6; 602.23-25
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 279.8
IASB Reference: 604.08

501.9 - Student Transfers In

Students who transfer into the school district must meet the immunization and age requirements set out for students who initially enroll in the school district.

The school district will request the student’s cumulative records from the previous school district. If the student cannot offer proof of grade level, the superintendent [or designee] will make the grade level determination. The superintendent [or designee] 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 [or designee] 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 [or designee’s] discretion to accept or reject credits or grades.

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

Adopted: 11/92
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/06
Related Policy: 500.1; 501.1-10; 602.23-25
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 139A.8; 282.1, .3-.4; 299A; 20 USA § 1232g
IASB Reference: 501.06

501.10 - Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals

If the student's parents/legal guardians wish to withdraw or transfer the student from school prior to completing and graduating from the education program, they should notify the associate superintendent [or designee] in writing as soon as possible of the decision to withdraw or transfer the student from the education program. The parents/legal guardians should also notify the student’s attendance center of their decision to transfer their student out of the district.

The notice should state the student's final day of attendance. If the student is not enrolling in another school district, the 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/legal guardians wish to have the student's cumulative records sent to the new school district, the parents/legal guardians must notify the student’s attendance center in writing. This notice will include the name of the receiving 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 student’s attendance center will forward the cumulative records and notify the parents/legal guardians the records have been sent. The notice will inform the parents/legal guardians 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/legal guardians will notify the associate superintendent [or designee] that the student is receiving competent private instruction and file the necessary competent private instruction reports.

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/06; 10/17
Related Policy: 500.1; 501.1-10; 604.23-25
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 274.1; 299.1-1A; 299A.11; 20 USC § 1232g
IASB Reference: 501.07

501.11 - Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy

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

CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM/ABSENCES means any absence from school for more than 10% of the days in the academic term, quarter/semester (block schedule format) established by the district.

TRUANT/TRUANCY means a child of compulsory attendance age who is absent from school for any reason for at least 20% of the days in the academic term, quarter/semester (block schedule format) established by the district. Truancy does not apply to the following students who:

Have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or have obtained a high school equivalency diploma;
Are excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or judge;
Are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
Are unable to attend school due to legitimate medical reasons;
Have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that affects the child's attendance;
Have a plan under Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act (29 U.S.C. §794) that affects the child's attendance;
Are attending a private college preparatory school accredited or probationally accredited;
Are excused under Iowa Code §299.22; and
Are exempt under Iowa Code §299.24.

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

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

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 10/23
Revised: 9/20; 8/24
Related Policy: 501.1; 501.11-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 294.4; 299; 281 IAC 12.3(4); 34 CFR Sec 300; 28 CFR Pt 35
Iowa Senate File 2435
IASB Reference: 501.09
Mandatory Policy

501.11-R Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy Regulation

Daily, punctual attendance is an integral part of the learning experience. The education that goes on in the classroom builds from day to day and absences can cause disruption in the educational progress of the absent student. Irregular attendance or tardiness by students not only limits their own studies, but also interferes with the progress of those students who are regular and prompt in attendance. Attendance is a shared responsibility that requires cooperation and communication among students, parents, and the school.

This regulation is divided into two sections: Section I addresses legal requirements related to chronic absenteeism and truancy and Section II addresses additional academic, disciplinary, and extracurricular consequences students face due to chronic absenteeism and truancy. It is important for students to recognize that chronic absenteeism and truancy impacts all these facets of their educational experience.

SECTION I – LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Chronic Absenteeism

When a student meets the threshold to be considered chronically absent, the school official will send notice by mail or email to the county attorney where the district’s central office is located. The school official will also notify the student, or if a minor, the student’s parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian via certified mail that includes information related to the student’s absences from school and the policies and disciplinary processes associated with additional absences.

School officials will send notice when the student’s absences meet the 10% threshold of the grading term, but before the student is deemed chronically absent.

School Engagement Meeting

After 10% of absences, if a student is absent from school multiple times with unexcused absences in the grading period, the school official will attempt to find the cause of the absences and start and participate in a school engagement meeting. All of the following individuals must participate in the school engagement meeting:

The student;
The student’s parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian if the student is an unemancipated minor; and
A school official.

The purpose of the meeting is to understand the reasons for the student’s absences and attempt to remove barriers to the student’s ongoing absences; and to create and sign an absenteeism prevention plan.

Absenteeism Prevention Plan

The absenteeism prevention plan will identify the causes of the student’s absences and the future responsibilities of each participant. The school official will contact the student and student’s parent/guardian at least once per week for the remainder of the school year to monitor the performance of the student and student’s parent/guardian under the plan. If the student and student’s parent/guardian do not attend the meeting, do not enter into a plan, or violate the terms of the plan, the school official will notify the county attorney.

SECTION II – ACADEMIC AND DISCIPLINARY REQUIREMENTS

Students are required to be in attendance, pursuant to board policy, for a designated amount of days or hours per school year. Preschool students have a requirement of 10 hours per week of scheduled instruction, and students in kindergarten through 12th grade have a requirement of 176 per school year. The number of hours or days a student is required to be in attendance may be adjusted if their absences have been excused by the principal for illness (absences of five or more consecutive days due to illness require a doctor’s note), family emergencies, doctor or dental appointment, recognized religious observances, and school sponsored or approved activities. Reasonable excuses may also include family trips or vacations approved by the building principal if the student’s work is finished prior to the trip or vacation. Absences that do not fall within the categories listed above will be considered unexcused unless approved by the principal. Parents are expected to telephone the school office to report a student’s absence.

If a student accumulates five unexcused absences in a class at the high school level, they may lose credit for the class if the student was previously warned at two unexcused absences that two more may result in loss of credit. Prior to imposing the loss of credit in one or more classes, the principal will provide the student an opportunity for an informal hearing.

School work missed because of absences must be made up within two times the number of days absent, not to exceed five days. The time allowed for make-up work may be extended at the discretion of the classroom teacher.

Students will remain in class until the principal makes a decision regarding loss or restoration of credit. Full credit is awarded to all assignments and test submitted that meet the teacher’s specifications until a decision regarding credit has been made.

If a student loses credit, this will be recorded in the student’s record as an administrative drop (AD).

A student who loses credit due to excessive absences is assigned to supervised study hall, in-school suspension, or online course work for the period(s) in which the course(s) meets or the student may be reassigned to another class or location. A student who receives an administrative drop (AD) in all courses due to unexcused absences will not be allowed to participate in any school activities until the following quarter/semester. However, the student is eligible to participate in practice if all other eligibility criteria have been met.

The administration and school counseling staff will make reasonable efforts to advise and counsel and may impose discipline upon any student approaching five unexcused absences. Such advice, discipline, and counseling is in addition to the requirements listed in Section I of this regulation and includes, but is not limited to, oral or written notices to the student and their parents, conferences with the student and parents, written contracts, or loss of non-academic privileges such as extracurricular activities, open campus, late arrival, early dismissal, or others as added by the principal.

Related Policy: 501.1; 501.11
Legal Reference (Iowa Code): §§ 294.4; 299; 281 IAC 12.3(4); 34 CFR Sec 300; 28 CFR Pt 35
Iowa Senate File 2435
IASB Reference: 501.09-R(1) Option II

501.13 - Student Release

Students in grades 11 and 12 may be allowed to leave the school district facilities with parental permission when they are not scheduled to be in class. Students who violate school rules may have this privilege suspended.

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

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/09
Related Policy: 500.1; 501.1
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 294.4; 281 IAC 12.3(4)
IASB Reference: 501.11

501.14 - Students of Legal Age

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

Parents/legal guardians 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/legal guardian permission or signature.

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Related Policy: 500.1; 501.1
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 22; 282.2, .6-.7; 285.4; 599.1; 622:10; 281 IAC 12.3(6)
IASB Reference: 501.13

501.15 - Homeless Children and Youth

The district will ensure reasonable efforts to identify homeless children and youth of school age within the district, encourage their enrollment in school, eliminate existing barriers in district policies and procedures which may serve as barriers to their enrollment, and ensure that homeless children and youth have equal access to the same free public education, including public preschool education, as provided to other children and youth.

The designated coordinator for identification of homeless children and for tracking and monitoring programs and activities for these children is the Executive Director of Student Services [or designee].

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

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 4/11; 3/12; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/13; 12/16
Related Policy: 501.1; 501.15-R; 503.3; 507.1; 603.3; 711.1
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): 20 USC § 6301; 42 USC § 11302; 42 USC §§ 11431 et seq.; 281 IAC 33
IASB Reference: 501.16
Mandatory Policy

501.15-R - Regulations Regarding Homeless Children and Youth

The Linn-Mar 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.

DEFINITIONS
Homeless children and youth means individuals from ages 3 through 21 who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. Children or youth that are incarcerated or in foster care are not considered homeless. 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, or campgrounds due to the 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 Executive Director of Student Services [or designee] as the local homeless children and youth liaison;
Provide training opportunities for staff so they 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 [or designee] may develop an administrative process or procedures to implement this policy.

Adopted: 8/06
Reviewed: 4/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/17; 9/20
Revised: 1/15; 12/16; 10/23
Related Policy: 501.1-14; 501.15
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): 20 USC § 6301; 42 USC § 11302; 42 USC §§ 11431 et seq; 281 IAC 33
IASB Reference: 501.16

502 - Student Conduct

502.1 - Student Conduct

The board believes inappropriate student conduct causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment, interferes with the rights of others, and 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;
On school-owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles;
Attending or engaged in school activities; and
Away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management, and welfare of the school district.

Consequences for the misconduct will be fair and developmentally appropriate in light of the circumstances.

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

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

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

In-school suspension means the student will attend school but will be temporarily isolated from one or more classes while under supervision. An in-school suspension will not exceed 10 consecutive school days.

Out-of-school suspension means the student is removed from the school environment, which includes school classes and activities. An out-of-school suspension will not exceed 10 consecutive school days unless due process is provided as required by federal and state law.

Restriction from school activities means a student will attend school and classes and practice, but will not participate in school activities.

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

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

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

Discipline of students who have been identified as 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 principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 10/14; 1/15; 9/20
Revised: 7/13; 12/16; 10/17; 2/21; 2/24
Related Policy: 502.1-R; 502.2; 502.2-R; 502.5; 502.5-R1-R3; 502.6-8; 502.8-R; 503.1; 602.5
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 282.3; 282.4; 708.1; 281 IAC 12.3(6)
IASB Reference: 503.01
Mandatory Policy

502.1-R - Regulations Regarding Student Conduct Procedures and Due Process

DUE PROCESS
Due process procedures include the right of the student to:

Be given oral and/or written notice of the charges;
Be given the opportunity to admit or deny such charges;
Be given an explanation of the evidence against the student if they deny the charges; and
Be given an opportunity to explain the situation.

The building principal [or designee] at their discretion may allow a student to confront witnesses against the student or present witnesses on behalf of the student.

As appropriate to the age of the student, the administration will make an effort to notify parents of disciplinary due process, when warranted.

ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS

A. Probation

Probation is the conditional suspension of a penalty for a set period of time. Probation may be imposed by the principal [or designee] for infractions of school rules which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school.
The building principal [or designee] will conduct an investigation of the allegations against the student prior to imposition of probation. The investigation will include, but not be limited to, written or oral notice to the student of the allegations against them and an opportunity to respond. Written notice and reasons for the probation will be sent to the student's parents.

B. In-School Suspensions

In-school suspensions may be imposed by the building principal [or designee] for infractions of school rules which are serious, but which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school.
The principal [or designee] will conduct an investigation of the allegations against the student prior to imposition of an in-school suspension. The investigation will include, but not be limited to, written or oral notice to the student of allegations against them and an opportunity to respond. In-school suspension will not be imposed for a period longer than 10 school days. Written notice and reasons for the in-school suspension will be sent to the student’s parents.

C. Out-of-School Suspensions

Out-of-school suspension is to be used when other available school resources are unable to constructively remedy student misconduct.
A student may be suspended out-of-school for up to 10 school days by a principal [or designee] for a commission of gross or repeated infractions of school rules, regulations, policy or the law, or when the presence of the student will cause interference with the maintenance of the educational environment or the operation of the school. The building principal [or designee] may suspend students after conducting an investigation of the charges against the student, giving the student oral or written notice of the allegations against the student, and giving the student:
1. Oral or written notice of the allegations against the student, and
2. The opportunity to respond to the charges.

At the principal’s [or designee’s] discretion, the student may be allowed to confront witnesses against them or present witnesses on their behalf.

Notice of the out-of-school suspension will be mailed no later than the end of the school day following the suspension to the student's parents and the superintendent. A reasonable effort is made to personally notify the student’s parents and such effort is documented by the person making or attempting to make the contact. Written notice to the parents will include the circumstances which led to the suspension and a copy of the board policy and rules pertaining to the suspension.

D. Suspensions for Special Education

Students who have been identified as special education students may be referred for a review of the student’s Individual Education Program (IEP). The IEP may be revised to include a continuum of intervention strategies and programming to change the behavior.
Students who have not been identified as special education students may be referred for evaluation after the student’s suspension to determine whether they have a disability and are in need of special education.

Adopted: 6/80
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 10/14; 1/15; 12/16; 10/17; 9/20
Revised: 7/13; 2/24
Related Policy (Code#): 502.1; 502.2; 502.2-R; 502.5; 502.5-R1-R3; 502.6-8; 502.8-R; 503.1; 602.5
IASB Reference: 503.01-R(1)

502.2 - Expulsion

Only the school board may expel a student from the school environment for more than 10 consecutive school days. Expulsion is defined as the removal of a student from the school environment which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities not exceeding one year plus the end of the current school term.

Students may be expelled for violations of board policy. It is within the discretion of the school 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 [or designee] to recommend to the board the expulsion of a student for disciplinary purposes. Only the board may take action to expel a student. Condition of re-admission of the student will be designated by the school board at the time of the expulsion decision. When appropriate, the board will receive status updates on expelled students. The building principal [or designee] 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:

Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion;
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;
An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide either oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student’s behalf;
The right to be represented by counsel; and
The results and findings of the board in writing open to the student's inspection.

In addition to these procedures, a student receiving special education services must be provided with additional procedures. A determination should be made 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 conduct of the student receiving special education services 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.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 10/14; 1/15; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/13; 10/17; 2/24
Related Policy: 502.1-; 502.1-R; 502.2-R; 502.5; 502.5-R1-R3; 502.6-8; 502.8-R; 503.1; 602.5
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 21.5; 282.3-5; 281 IAC 12.3(6)
IASB Reference: 503.02
Mandatory Policy

502.2-R - Regulations Regarding Student Expulsion Procedures

The constitutional rights of individuals assure the protection of due process of law, therefore, this system of constitutionally and legally sound procedures is developed with regard to the administration of discipline in the Linn-Mar Community School District. This document is not intended to outline specific rules regarding misconduct for which a student could be expelled, but instead to provide the framework for a fair and orderly method of handling all problems of misconduct.

SCHOOL BOARD ACTION

The school board may, by a majority vote, expel any student from school for a violation of the rules and regulations approved by the board or when the presence of the student is detrimental to the best interests of the school.
Upon the recommendation of the superintendent [or designee] the board may expel a student for violation of school rules or repeated infractions of school rules; or when the presence of the student will cause substantial interference with the maintenance of the educational environment or the normal operation of the school.
The superintendent, the student, or the student’s representative may request a hearing before the school board. The hearing may be in closed session at the request of the student and/or their parents.

HEARING PROCEDURES

A written statement of the alleged misconduct given as grounds for the proposed board expulsion will be given to the student’s parents at least five calendar days before the hearing. The statement will include the names of the school officials and teachers having knowledge of the proposed reasons for expulsion. The written statement will be accompanied by a copy of the board policies and rules pertaining to procedures for student expulsions.
A written notice will be sent by certified mail to the student’s parents at least three days before the hearing. This notice will contain the date, time, and place of the hearing. This provision may be waived by written agreement of the parties.
If the student’s parents cannot be notified or cannot be present at the hearing because of extenuating circumstances and request a postponement, the board may postpone the hearing until the parents are notified and available to be present. Such requests for postponement should be made at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled hearing time.
If the student, their parents, or their representative do not request postponement for cause and are not present at the time and place scheduled in the hearing notice, the hearing will proceed without them. In such an event the record will show a factual determination by the school board that sufficient and proper notice was given to the parties and no postponement was requested.
Permission will be granted for the appearance of counsel or other representation.
An opportunity will be granted prior to the hearing for the student, or their representative, to examine copies of documents to be used as evidence. Permission will be granted for the student, or their representative, to discuss the matter with administrators, teachers, and other witnesses.
The superintendent [or designee] will present evidence on behalf of the recommendation. An attorney hired by the school board may not, at the same time, present evidence and advise the board.
Witnesses at the hearing or persons whose testimony has been submitted in written form, if available, will be subject to cross-examination by any party as is necessary for a full and true disclosure of the facts.
An opportunity will be granted for the student or their counsel to present the student’s version or refutation of the allegations through documents and witnesses. If the student refuses to testify, they will not be punished for refusal to testify nor will such refusal in any way be construed as an admission of guilt.
The board’s decision will be based solely upon evidence introduced at the hearing.
Within 10 calendar days of the hearing the board will mail or have delivered to the student and their parent(s) a written statement of the board’s decision and the factual basis for it.
A verbatim record of the hearing will be made by mechanized means or shorthand reporter. Such record will be kept by the district for a minimum of one year and will be made available to the student or their parent(s) upon request and at a reasonable cost.

Nothing contained in items 1-12 above will prevent the immediate board expulsion of a student when the student’s continued presence on the school grounds would endanger their safety or well-being, endanger the safety or well-being of other members of the school community, or substantially interfere with the proper functioning of the school. In the instance of an immediate board expulsion, a hearing will be held within 10 days to determine future action. Such a hearing will be conducted in the spirit of due process envisioned in items 1-12 above.

CONDITIONS FOR READMISSION
The school board may consider and, by majority vote of those present, grant readmission to a student suspended by board action at any time and upon any condition it may determine or may designate the authority for readmission to an administrator at the time of the expulsion decision. A decision adverse to the student may be appealed under Chapter 290, Code of Iowa.

Students, parents, and faculty will be regularly informed of school rules regarding student behavior and discipline.

Adopted: 6/80
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/13
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.1-R; 502.2; 502.5; 501.5-R1-R3; 502.6; 502.8; 502.8-R; 503.1; 602.5

502.3 - Student Substance Use

The board believes it is imperative to promote the health and wellbeing of all students in the district. The district will provide a substance use prevention program and set restrictions on substance use by students in accordance with applicable law.

The board prohibits the distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of alcohol, tobacco/nicotine products, other controlled substances, or “look alike” substances that appear to be tobacco/nicotine products, alcohol, or other controlled substances (ex: schedule I; schedule II-V drugs without a valid prescription) 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. Controlled substances in this policy refers to the misuse of both licit and illicit drugs.

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 tobacco/ nicotine products for those under the age of 21 may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities. Possession, use, or being under the influence of 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 use 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 use prevention program will include:

Age-appropriate, evidence-based substance use prevention curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through 12, which address the legal, social, and health consequences of tobacco/nicotine products, drug, and alcohol use and which provide information about effective techniques for resisting social pressure to use tobacco/nicotine products, drugs, or alcohol;
A statement to students that the use of controlled substances and the unlawful possession and use of tobacco/nicotine products and alcohol is harmful to student wellbeing;
Standards of conduct for students that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, being under the influence of or distribution of controlled substances, tobacco/nicotine products, and/or 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 complete a substance use evaluation to determine whether substance use disorder treatment is recommended and, if recommended, 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 principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 3/12; 10/14; 10/17; 9/20
Revised: 5/11; 7/13; 1/15; 3/23; 8/24
Related Policy (Code #): 502.1; 502.2; 502.2-R; 502.3-R; 502.4; 1004.3
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 123.46; 124; 279.8-9; 453A;
81 IAC 12.3(6); .5(3)(e); .5(4)(e); .5(5)(e); 34 CFR Pt 86
IASB Reference: 502.07
Mandatory Policy

502.4 - Search and Seizure

School district property is held in public trust by the board. School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search a student; student lockers; personal effects; desks; work areas; or student vehicles based on a reasonable suspicion that a board policy, school rule, or law has been broken. The search will be 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 non-prescription 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 authorities. The board believes that such illegal, unauthorized, or contraband materials cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present 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 and are prohibited.

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

Adopted: 7/80
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/09; 2/21
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.2; 502.2-R; 502.3; 502.3-R; 502.4-R; 502.4-E
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): 808A; 281 IAC 12.3(6)
IASB Reference: 502.08

502.4-R - Regulations Regarding Search and Seizure

I. SEARCHES IN GENERAL

A. Reasonable and Articulable Suspicion: A search of a student will be justified when there are reasonable grounds for the suspicion that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law or school district policy, rules, or regulations affecting school order.

Reasonable suspicion may be formed by considering factors such as the following:

Eyewitness observations by employees;
Information received from reliable sources;
Suspicious behavior by the student; or
The student’s past history and school record, although this factor alone is not sufficient to provide the basis for reasonable suspicion.

B. Reasonable Scope: A search will be permissible in its scope or intrusiveness when the measures adopted are reasonably related to the objectives of the search. Reasonableness of scope or intrusiveness may be determined based on factors such as the following:

1. Age of the students;
2. Sex of the student;
3. Nature of the infraction; and
4. The emergency requiring the search without delay.

II. TYPES OF SEARCHES

A. Personal Searches:

1. A student's person and/or personal effects (e.g., purse, backpack, etc.) may be searched when a school official has reasonable suspicion to believe the student is in possession of illegal or contraband items or has violated school district policy, rules, regulations, or the law affecting school order.

2. Personally intrusive searches will require more compelling circumstances to be considered reasonable.

a. Pat-Down Search: If a pat-down search or a search of a student's garments (such as jackets, socks, pockets, etc.) is conducted, it will be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex as the student and with another adult witness of the same sex present, when feasible.

b. A more intrusive search, short of a strip search. of the student's person, handbags, book bags, etc., is permissible in emergency situations when the health or safety of students, employees, or visitors are threatened. Such a search may only be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex as the student, with an adult of the same sex present unless the health or safety of the students will be endangered by the delay which may e caused by following these procedures.

B. Locker and Desk Inspections:
Although school lockers and desks are temporarily assigned to individual students, they remain the property of the school district at all times. The school district has a reasonable and valid interest in insuring the lockers and desks are properly maintained. For this reason, lockers and desks are subject to unannounced inspections and students have no legitimate expectations of privacy in the locker or desk. Periodic inspections of all or a random selection of lockers or desks may be conducted by school officials in the presence of the student or another individual. Any contraband discovered during such searches will be confiscated by school officials and may be turned over to law enforcement officials.

The contents of a student’s locker or desk (coat, backpack, purse, etc.) may be searched when a school official has reasonable and articulable suspicion that the contents contain illegal or contraband items or evidence of a violation of law or school policy or rule. Such searches should be conducted in the presence of another adult witness when feasible.

C. Automobile Searches:
Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right. The school retains authority to conduct routine patrols of the student parking lots. The interior of a student's automobile on the school premises may be searched if the school official has reasonable and articulable suspicion to believe that illegal, unauthorized, or contraband items are contained inside.

Adopted: 7/87
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20
Revised: 9/09; 7/13; 11/23
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.2; 502.2-R; 502.3; 502.3-R; 502.4; 502.4-E
IASB Reference: 502.08-R(1)

502.4-E - Search and Seizure Checklist

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE SEARCH & SEIZURE CHECKLIST

What factors caused you to have a reasonable suspicion that the search of this student or the student's effects or automobile would turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law, school policy, rules, or regulations affecting school order?

EYEWITNESS ACCOUNT:

By whom:
Date/Time:
Place:
What was seen:

INFORMATION FROM RELIABLE SOURCE:

From whom:
Time received:
How information was received:
Who received the information:
Describe information:

SUSPICIOUS BEHAVIOR:

Explain:
Time of search:
Location of search:
Student told purpose of search:
Consent of student requested:

WAS THE SEARCH CONDUCTED REASONBLY IN TERMS OF SCOPE AND INTRUSIVENESS:

What were you searching for:
Where did you search:
Sex of student:
Age of student:
Exigency of the situation:
What type of search was being conducted:
Who conducted the search:
Position and Sex:
Witnesses:

EXPLANATION OF SEARCH:

Describe the time and location of the search:
Describe exactly what was searched:
What did the search yield:
What was seized:
Were any materials turned over to law enforcement officials:
Were parents notified of the search including the reason for it and the scope:

Adopted: 8/02
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20
Revised: 10/06; 2/21; 10/23
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.2; 502.2-R; 502.3; 502.3-R; 502.4; 502.4-R
IASB Reference: 502.8-E(1)

502.5 - Co/Extra-Curricular Conduct Policy

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 lifetime.

Students who participate in co/extra-curricular 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 co/extra-curricular activities must conduct themselves in accordance with board policy.

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 co/extra-curricular conduct policy.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent in conjunction with principals 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.

Adopted: 3/84
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/13
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.5-R1-R3; 502.6; 503.4-6; 503.10

502.5-R1 - Regulations Regarding Co/Extra-Curricular Conduct for Students

Co/extra-curricular activities in the context of this policy include all school sponsored activities other than the regular classroom and laboratory experiences. All approved school activities, clubs, organizations, athletic programs, and intramural competitions are considered co/extra-curricular activities.

Participation in co/extra-curricular activities is considered a privilege by the Linn-Mar Community School District. Proper student conduct in these activities, whether on school grounds or away from school, is expected and must coincide with the rules of the school and the district. Violations of the rules can result in a student being suspended from the activity, removed from the activity permanently, and/or referred to law enforcement agencies.

The director of the co/extra-curricular activity will establish and make known the rules of conduct and regulations for the students participating in the activity. The rules of conduct shall be approved by the building principal [or designee]. Said rules will be in writing and given to each student in the particular activity prior to their membership or involvement. Additional rules of conduct may be established and made known during the school year.

The director of the co/extra-curricular activity may declare a student ineligible whose conduct is contrary to and in violation of the established rules and regulations. A student may contest the declaration of the ineligibility to the building principal [or designee]. An appeal must be submitted in writing and within 48 hours of the declaration. An adverse decision of the building principal [or designee] may be appealed to the superintendent of schools. This appeal must be within seven days of the receipt of the building principal's [or designee’s] decision.

In the event of an adverse decision by the building principal [or designee] and superintendent, the eligibility may be appealed to the Linn-Mar Board of Directors. This appeal must be within seven days of receipt of the decision from the superintendent.

GOOD CONDUCT RULE FOR TRANSFER STUDENTS
Any student declared ineligible under their prior school district's good conduct rule, and who has not completed the full period of ineligibility at that school that transfers to Linn-Mar, will not be eligible for participation in co/extra-curricular activities with the Linn-Mar Community School District until their full period of ineligibility has been completed. Once the period of ineligibility has been completed, the student is then immediately eligible for participation in co/extra-curricular activities with the Linn-Mar Community School District as far as any good conduct rule is concerned.

Adopted: 3/84
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/13
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.5; 502.5-R2-R3; 502.6; 503.4-6; 503.10

502.5-R2 - Regulations Regarding Co/Extra-Curricular Conduct Philosophy & Parent Responsibility

PHILOSOPHY
We believe the Linn-Mar Community School District’s co/extra-curricular program is an extension of a balanced educational program that allows students the opportunity to apply knowledge and skills learned in school to real life situations. It is through this interaction and systematic guidance of students in their everyday environments that we can provide first-hand experiences, test their skills, provide successes, and offer an effective means to prepare students for a total growth. Co/extra-curricular activities contribute to the total growth of a young person, provided these activities are conducted from a balanced educational perspective. The educational challenge is to provide a student the opportunity to learn how to learn.

Co/extra-curricular activities serve many purposes. The benefits of a well-directed co/extra-curricular program are far reaching. Each activity should strive to achieve the following goals:

Develop school spirit;
Provide service to the school;
Help students develop a feeling of competency;
Provide opportunities to develop social skills;
Provide opportunities for social mobility;
Provide for informal interaction between faculty members, students, and parents;
Provide training in citizenship and foster leadership;
Provide opportunities for self-expression;
Help students develop worthwhile activities for their leisure time;
Provide opportunities for recreation;
Provide information on vocations/careers and other topics of interest; and
Promote healthy and productive lifestyles.

CO/EXTRA-CURRICULAR CONDUCT POLICY
The Linn-Mar Community School District co/extra-curricular programs are completely voluntary. No student is obligated to take part in co/extra-curricular school activities. Participation is not required for advancement or graduation. Furthermore, school boards have the authority to adopt good conduct rules (Reference: Board of Directors of the Independent School District of Waterloo vs Green, 147 NW 2d 854, 1967). The basis of good conduct rules may apply to co/extra-curricular activities beyond athletics (Reference: Bunger vs Iowa High School Athletic Association, 197 NW 2d 555, Iowa 1972).

Co/extra-curricular participants in athletics, forensics, dramatics, or other interscholastic activities play a somewhat different role at school. Leadership brings additional responsibility and more is expected of participants in order to be eligible for their particular activity.

According to Linn-Mar Policy 502.5, proper student conduct in these activities whether on school grounds or away from school during the school year or during the summer is expected and must coincide with the rules of the school and district.

By signing the Co/Extra-curricular Information Form, parents are indicating they have read and understand the following:

I am aware of the inherent risks of potentially serious injury while participating in school co/extra-curricular activities. In light of these potential risks, I give my child permission to participate;
I understand that certain co/extra-curricular activities require, by state and local rule, that participants have a physical examination completed by an MD, DO, DC, or approved nurse practitioner and on file with the school health services office prior to participation in a sport or activities;
I understand that there is no school insurance to provide protection to my child during any phase of their participation in co/extra-curricular activities. All participants in co/extra-curricular activities should have some type of health/accident coverage or purchase an alternate student insurance policy available through the district;
I give permission for an authorized school official to obtain medical attention for my child in case of injury or illness;
I give consent for my child to engage in school approved co/extra-curricular activities as a representative of the school;
I give consent for my child to accompany the school approved co/extra-curricular group on school-sponsored transportation to both in and out-of-town co/extra-curricular activities. Transportation home, other than school-sponsored transportation, may only be approved by the sponsor or coach if the parent of the child is present;
I give consent for my child to travel to and from school-approved co/extra-curricular activities by means other than a school vehicle when school transportation is unavailable or impractical. I also waive the responsibility of the school district when my child is being transported by means other than a school vehicle and/or by a driver other than school personnel to or from a school-sponsored activity;
I am aware that there are board policies and a board approved student handbook that contain certain regulations for academic eligibility; attendance in school; behavior both in and out of school; and rules concerning the possession, distribution, or use of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco/nicotine. I understand that school administration may suspend or expel my child from co/extra-curricular activities for failure to abide by these regulations. I also understand that each activity may have additional rules for participation;
I understand that some activities require fees, such as uniform and rental fees;
I understand that academic eligibility for co/extra-curricular activities will be determined according to the guidelines established in Linn-Mar Policy 502.6. Students are advised that high school students must pass all courses during the preceding grading period in order to be eligible to participate in co/extra-curricular activities; and
I understand that parents/spectators should be role models at all activities whether they are home or away. Parents/spectators must realize inappropriate and unsportsmanlike behavior may result in removal from the activities.

Adopted: 7/97
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/13
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.5-R1, R3; 502.6; 503.4-6; 503.10; 1005.6; 1005.6-E

502.5-R3 - Regulations Regarding Co/Extra-Curricular Conduct Suspension of Participation

Students who participate in co/extra-curricular activities involving public performances are prohibited from possessing, using, transporting, controlling, or transmitting tobacco/nicotine, alcohol, or other drugs at any time (year-round) during their middle school or high school career. The administration will suspend a student if it is determined, as reported by school personnel, that a violation did occur. The ruling will include any activities outside of school, as well as at school or at school events (either home or away). Suspensions may also result from either legal documentation or by self-admittance. Investigation of possible infractions will involve parent notification. If a student is guilty of an infraction and is not currently involved in an activity, the suspension will become effective utilizing the activities they were involved in the previous year.

1st Offense (During middle school or high school career):

Suspended from at least 20% of public performances with carryover to next activity;
Counseling required prior to reinstatement (Suspended from at least 33% of performances if no progression in counseling); and
Must continue practicing.

2nd Offense (During middle school or high school career):

Suspended from at least 50% of public performances with carryover to next activity;
Counseling required prior to reinstatement; and
Must continue practicing.

3rd Offense (During middle school or high school career):

One-year suspension from co/extra-curricular activities; and
Counseling required prior to reinstatement for all third offenses.

4th Offense (During middle school or high school career):

Permanent suspension from co/extra-curricular activities; and
Counseling available for all fourth offenses.

**Established school/team/group rules may also apply to violations.

In order for the suspension to be put into effect, it must be clearly determined that the violation did occur. It is clear that an admission from the student is not required prior to disciplining a student. (Reference: Schmahl vs. Glenwood Community School District, 2 DPI App Dec. 26, 1979)

COURT SYSTEM INVOLVEMENT
Students admitting to or found guilty of non-trafficking misdemeanors or felonies not defined in these regulations may be subject to suspension from co/extra-curricular activities as determined by the building principal [or designee]. The district will cooperate with the courts or other recognized public agencies in carrying out consequences in co/extra-curricular activities.

APPEAL PROCESS
As established by Linn-Mar policies 502.5 and 502.5-R1.

DEFINITIONS
Carryover: In situations when there are not enough performances remaining in a season to complete a suspension, the suspension will be carried over to the next co/extra-curricular activity in which the student participates.

Counseling: Directed by Linn-Mar middle school/high school counseling offices or other non-school agencies that students are referred to, or are approved by, school counselors or the district’s Student Assistance Team. Any cost for use of non-school agencies is the responsibility of the student/parent. Linn-Mar counseling services will include discussion of decision-making skills, tobacco/nicotine/alcohol/drug information, and peer and family relationships with parents invited to participate. A student may receive confidential assistance at any time during their middle school or high school career.

Possession/Use/Transportation/Control/Transmission:

Tobacco/Nicotine: Personal possession, use, transportation, control, or transmission.
Alcohol and Other Drugs: As defined by legal statute and/or court interpretation.
Possession, transportation, control, or transmission may be determined by prior knowledge or intent.
Team/activity rules may be more specific.

Public Performance Activity: Is a co/extra-curricular activity where students are expected to perform in activities which the public may view. Examples include but are not limited to athletic events, concerts, plays, debates, speech contests, music contests, previews, and exhibitions. Activities begin with the first required meeting for any participant and end when equipment is checked in, the set is struck, or the last required meeting occurs, etc. Athletic seasons are defined by the state or locally designated starting and ending dates. Public performances are determined by the administration prior to the beginning of co/extra- curricular activities.

Adopted: 4/91
Reviewed: 5/11; 3/12; 10/14; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/13; 1/15
Related Policy: 5021; 502.3; 502.3-R; 502.5; 502.5-R1-R2; 502.6; 503.4-6; 503.10; 1004.3

502.6 - High School Academic Eligibility for Co/Extra-Curricular Activities

Co/extra-curricular activities include, but are not limited to, interscholastic athletic contests, extra-curricular fine arts performances, and other competitions, trips, or performances by Linn-Mar High School sponsored clubs, teams, and organizations.

Students not academically eligible may be allowed to participate in practices at the discretion of the coach, director, or sponsor with the approval of the high school principal [or designee]. Academically ineligible students may travel with co/extra-curricular activity groups at the discretion of the athletic director or administrator but may not participate.

Students must pass all courses during the preceding grading period in order to be eligible to participate in co/extra-curricular activities. Students who do not pass all courses during the preceding grading period will be ineligible for a 30-day consecutive calendar period. For co/extra-curricular activities, this 30-day period will begin in the next grading period, the day after grades are available.

For athletics, this ineligible period will follow the guidelines of the Scholarship Rule, 281 IAC 36.15(2). The Scholarship Rule states that the student is ineligible for a 30-day consecutive calendar period in the next (or current) occurring interscholastic athletic team in which the student is a contestant. The 30-day period begins on the first date that competition in the sport is allowed, as determined by the Scholarship Rule. There is no requirement that the student competed in the sport previously.

In order to fulfill the requirements of a loss of competition penalty the student must complete the entire activity/sport season in good standing, as well as be withheld from the prescribed number of competition dates. To be considered a member in good standing, the student must follow all behavioral, attendance, and team expectations; be an active team member at the end of the season; and their name must be listed on the end-of-season report for the sport. If a student quits an activity/sport or is removed from an activity/team because of disciplinary reasons, they will not receive credit for time served.

Students who receive incomplete grades will be ineligible until all course work is satisfactorily completed. The courses must be completed within 10 days after the conclusion of the previous grading period. Students who qualify for credit recovery will be ineligible for a minimum of 30 days, pending the completion of all course work at a passing level. This work will be monitored by the academic assistance counselor with final approval by the principal [or designee].

The principal [or designee] is responsible for checking the records of students in activities at the beginning of the activity and at the end of each grade reporting period that the activity is in progress to determine eligibility and will notify the coach, director, or sponsor of ineligible students.

All first-time ninth graders (freshmen) will be considered academically eligible at the end of their eighth grade school year. The academic eligibility of incoming high school transfer students during the school year will be determined by their grades earned and reported by their previous school. Summer activities are considered an extension of the second semester.

The superintendent is responsible for the administrative regulations for academic eligibility.

Adopted: 5/90
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 10/14; 1/15; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/13; 4/16; 10/17; 11/17
Related Policy : 502.1; 502.5; 502.5-R1-R3; 503.4-6; 503.10

502.7 - Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint, and Prone Restraint

The use of corporal punishment, mechanical restraint, and/or prone restraint is prohibited in all schools. Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional physical punishment of a student. It includes the use of unreasonable or unnecessary physical force or physical contact made with the intent to harm or cause pain.

No employee is prohibited from any of the following which are not considered corporal punishment:

1. Using reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain, may be used with or without advance notice when the use of such force is deemed essential in order to accomplish any of the following purposes:

To quell a disturbance or prevent an act that threatens physical harm to any person;
To obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous objects within a student’s control;
For the purposes of self-defense or defense of others as provided for in Iowa Code Section 704.3;
For the protection of property as provided for in Iowa Code Sections 704.4 or 704.5;
To remove a disruptive student from class or any area of school premises or from school-sponsored activities off school premises;
To protect a student from the self-infliction of harm; or
To protect the safety of others.

2. The use of incidental, minor, or reasonable physical contact may be used to maintain order and control.

Mechanical restraint means the use of a device as a means of restricting a student’s freedom or movement. Mechanical restraint does not mean a device used by a trained individual for specific approved therapeutic or safety purposes for which the device was designed and, if applicable, prescribed, including restraints for medical immobilization, adaptive devices, or mechanical supports used to allow greater freedom of mobility than would be possible without use of such devices or mechanical supports; and vehicle safety restraints when used as intended during the transport of a student in a moving vehicle.

Prone restraint means any restraint in which the student is held face down on the floor.

Reasonable force should be commensurate with the circumstances of the situation and it should be moderate so as not to cause permanent physical harm to the student. The following factors should be considered in using reasonable physical force for the reasons stated in this policy:

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

Upon request, the student's parents will be given an explanation of the reasons for physical force.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee] to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Adopted: 7/90
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/09; 2/21
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.1-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 280.21; 281 IAC 12.3(6); 103
IASB Reference: 503.05

502.8 - Weapons

The Linn-Mar Community School District Board of Directors believes weapons, other dangerous objects, and look-alikes in school district facilities cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment and present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, and visitors on school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.

All weapons, dangerous objects, and look-alikes are prohibited to be carried, possessed, transported, or otherwise stored on school district property and to district-approved events. Exceptions to this policy include weapons carried by the following individuals in performance of their official duties:

Law enforcement;
Military personnel;
Corrections officers;
Individuals approved in writing by the superintendent;
Students and individuals approved in writing by the superintendent who are actively engaging in a district-approved firearms safety course, hunter
education course, or shooting sports activity; and
School security officers and/or school resource officers in accordance with all applicable laws.

School district facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons, dangerous objects, and look-a-likes. Weapons and other dangerous objects and look-alikes will be taken from students and others who bring them onto school district property, a school district event, 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-alikes on school property are notified of the incident. Possession or confiscation of weapons, dangerous objects, or look-alikes will be reported to law enforcement officials and students will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.

Students bringing firearms to school will be expelled for not less than one calendar 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 the 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; any explosive, incendiary, or poisonous gas; or otherwise defined by applicable law.

The district shall not authorize staff members to carry firearms on school grounds in accordance with Iowa Code 724.6. Employees found in violation of this policy may be subject to discipline up to and including termination.

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

Adopted: 12/94
Reviewed: 5/11; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 12/16; 9/21; 8/24
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.1-R; 502.2; 502.2-R; 502.8-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 483A.27(11); 724; 281 IAC 12.3(6); 18 USC § 921
IASB Reference: 502.06; 905.03
Mandatory Policy

502.8-R - Regulations Regarding Weapons

For the purposes of Policy 502.8, the following definitions are to be used by district officials and administrators in the administration of the policy:

In the Linn-Mar Community School District weapons are defined as any dangerous objects which cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat or perceived threat to the health and safety of students, employees, and visitors on district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district. Although not an all-inclusive list, the following are examples of weapons: knives, clubs, brass knuckles, look-alike weapons, and look-alike firearms.

Firearms is defined as:

any weapon (including a starter gun) which will, is designed to, or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive;
the frame or receiver of any such weapon;
any firearm muffler or firearm silencer, or
any destructive device.

Destructive Device means:

Any explosive, incendiary, or poisonous gas:
- bomb;
- grenade;
- rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces;
- missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than ¼ ounce;
- mine; or
- device similar to any of the devices described in the preceding clauses.
Any type of weapon by whatever name known which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant and which has any barrel with a bore of more than one-half inch diameter.
Any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into any destructive device described in subparagraph (1) or (2) and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled.

Adopted: 12/94
Reviewed: 5/11; 7/13; 10/14; 12/16; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 1/15
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.1-R; 502.2; 502.2-R; 502.8-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 483A.27(11); 724; 281 IAC 12.3(6)
IASB Reference: 502.06; 905.03

502.9 - Student Appearance

The board believes inappropriate student appearance causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health or 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; 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 [or designee] a student's appearance or mode of dress disrupts the education 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 building principals to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 11/06
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 279.8
IASB Reference: 502.01

502.10 - Care of School Property/Vandalism

Students will treat school district property with the care and respect they would treat their own property. Students found to have destroyed or otherwise harmed district property may be required to reimburse the school district. They may be subject to discipline under board policy or 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 building principals to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 11/06
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 282.4-5; 613.16
IASB Reference: 502.02

502.11 - Student Expression and Student Publications

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

Student expression other than student expression in student-produced, official school publications made on the school district premises, under the jurisdiction of the school district, or as part of a school-sponsored activity may be attributed to the school district; therefore, student expression must be responsible. Student expression must be appropriate to assure that the students learn and meet the goals of the school activity and that the potential audience is not exposed to materials that may be harmful or inappropriate.

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

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

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

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

STUDENT PUBLICATIONS
Students may produce official school publications as part of the curriculum under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the building principal. Official school publications include materials produced in journalism or writing classes or for the newspaper, yearbook, or electronic forms of communication including video and web media which are distributed to the student body and publicly available either free or for a fee.

Any expression made by students which may include, but is not limited to, written materials, art, photos, and graphic images including student expression in official school publications, is not an expression of official school policy. The school district, board, and 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 will be 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 publications will follow the grievance procedures outlined in board Policy 502.12. Students who believe their freedom of expression in a student-produced, official school publication has been restricted will follow the grievance procedure also outlined in Policy 502.12.

The superintendent in conjunction with building principals will be 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 [or designee] will also be responsible for distributing this policy and the student publications code to the students and their parents.

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 11/06; 9/21
Related Policy: 502.11-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8, .73; 280.22
IASB Reference: 502.03
Mandatory Policy

502.11-R - Regulations Regarding Student Expression and Student Publications

STUDENT EXPRESSION
Student expression is speech, action, or other forms of expression which convey a student’s beliefs, views, or opinions.

OFFICIAL SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS
Official school publications are materials produced by students in journalism or writing classes or for the newspaper, yearbook, or electronic forms of communication including video and web media which are distributed to students and publicly available either free or for a fee.

LIMITATIONS TO STUDENT EXPRESSION

No student will express, publish, or distribute material which is:

Obscene
Libelous
Slanderous
Encourages students to:
- Commit unlawful acts
- Violate lawful school regulations
- Cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient operation of the school or school activity
- Disrupt or interfere with the education program
- Interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere
- Infringe on the rights of others

RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS FOR OFFICIAL SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS

Students writing or editing official school publications will assign and edit the news, editorial, and feature contents of the official school publications subject to the limitations of the district’s student publications code and the law.
Students will strive to achieve professional standards of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and thoroughness in each and every aspect of official school publications.
Students will strive to achieve professional standards of grammar, usage, punctuation, and spelling for clarity and accuracy of official school publications.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF FACULTY ADVISORS FOR OFFICIAL SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS
Faculty advisors will supervise student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and to comply with the law including, but not limited to, the restrictions against unlawful speech. Official school publications are produced under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Faculty advisors to students producing official school publications will supervise the production of the student staff in order to maintain professional standards of English journalism. District employees acting within the scope of their professional ethics will not suffer adverse employment action or retaliated against for acting to protect a student for engaging in authorized student expression or for refusing to infringe on protected student expression.

DISTRICT EMPLOYEE RIGHTS
Any district employee or official, acting within the scope of that person’s professional ethics, if any, will not be dismissed, suspended, disciplined, reassigned, transferred, subject to termination or nonrenewal of a teaching contract or extra-curricular contract, or otherwise retaliated against for acting to protect a student for engaging in expression protected by law, or refusing to infringe upon student expression that is protected by law.

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

APPEAL PROCEDURES

Students who believe they have been unreasonably restricted in their exercise of expression in an official school publication will seek review of the decision through the student grievance procedure, under board Policy 502.12 .
Persons who believe they have been aggrieved by a student-produced official student publication will also file their complaint through the citizen grievance procedure under Policy 502.12.

TIME, PLACE, AND MANNER OF RESTRICTIONS ON STUDENT EXPRESSION

Student expression may be conveyed, and official student publications may be distributed in a reasonable manner on or off school premises.
Student expression and distribution of official school publications in a reasonable manner will not encourage students to:

Commit unlawful acts
Violate lawful school regulations
- Cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient operation of the school or school activity;
- Disrupt or interfere with the education program;
- Interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere; and
- Infringe on the rights of others.

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/09; 9/21
Related Policy: 502.11
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8, .73; 280.22

502.12 - Student Complaints and Grievances

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

If the complaint cannot be resolved by the student’s teacher or a licensed employee, the student may discuss the matter with the building principal within 7 days of the employee's decision. If the matter cannot be resolved by the building principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within 7 days after speaking with the building principal.

If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved by the superintendent, the student may request 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 complaints.

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20
Revised: 1/22; 10/23
Related Policy: 1003.3
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 279.8
IASB Reference: 502.04

502.13 - Student Lockers

Student lockers are the property of the school district. Students may 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 building principal [or designee] 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. (Refer to policies 502.4, 502.4-R, and 502.4-E)

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 11/06
Related Policy: 502.4; 502.4-R; 502.4-E
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 280.14; 808A
IASB Reference: 502.05

502.14 - Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion of Students

It is the goal of the school district that all students can learn and grow in a safe and peaceful environment that nurtures the students 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 their arms, legs, body, or head freely. Physical restraint does not mean a technique used by trained school employees, 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, handshaking, hugging, or other non-disciplinary physical contact.

SECLUSION means the involuntary confinement of a student in a seclusion room or area from which the student is prevented or prohibited from leaving; however, preventing a student 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 student, 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 law. Any individual who is not employed by the school 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 Executive Director of Student Services [or designee] will ensure a post-occurrence debriefing meeting is held, maintain documentation, and fulfill reporting requirements for each occurrence of physical restraint or seclusion as required by law.

Adopted: 2/21
Reviewed: 10/23
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.1-R; 502.7; 502.14-R; 502.14-E1-E3
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 280.21; 281 IAC 103
IASB Reference: 503.06

502.14-R - Regulations Regarding Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion of Students

The Linn-Mar Community School District will comply with 281 Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 103 for the use of physical restraint and seclusion of students including but not limited to:

Physical restraint and seclusion will be used only by employees who have been trained in accordance with applicable law unless a trained employee is not immediately available due to the unforeseeable nature of the occurrence.
As soon as practical after the situation is under control, but within one hour after either the occurrence or the end of the school day, whichever occurs first, the school will attempt to contact the student’s parents/guardians using the school’s emergency contact system.
The seclusion or physical restraint is used only for as long as necessary based on research and evidence to allow the student to regain control of their behavior to the point that the threat or behavior necessitating the use of the seclusion or physical restraint has ended, or when a medical condition occurs that puts the student at risk of harm. Unless otherwise provided for in the student’s written and approved Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP), Individualized Healthcare Plan (IHP), or safety plan, if the seclusion or physical restraint continues for more than 15 minutes:
1. The student will be provided with any necessary breaks to attend to personal and bodily needs, unless doing so would endanger the student or others.
2. An employee will obtain approval from an administrator [or designee] to continue seclusion or physical restraint beyond 15 minutes. After the initial approval, an employee must obtain additional approval every 30 minutes thereafter for the continuation of the seclusion or physical restraint.
3. The student’s parents/guardians and the school may agree to more frequent notifications than is required by law.
4. Schools and district employees must document and explain in writing the reasons why it was not possible for employees to obtain approval, notify parents/guardians, or take action within prescribed time limits.
5. Schools and district employees who begin and then end use of nonapproved restraints will document and explain in writing the reasons why they had no other option but to use this type of behavioral intervention.
The area of seclusion will be a designated seclusion room that complies with the seclusion room requirements in accordance with law, unless the nature of the occurrence makes the use of the designated seclusion room impossible, clearly impractical, or clearly contrary to the safety of the student, others, or both; in that event, the school must document and explain in writing the reasons why a designated seclusion room was not used.
An employee must continually visually monitor the student for the duration of the seclusion or physical restraint.
If an employee restrains a student who uses sign language or an augmentative mode of communication as the student’s primary mode of communication, the student will be permitted to have their hands free of physical restraint, unless doing so is not feasible in view of the threat posed.
Seclusion or physical restraint will not be used as punishment or discipline; to force compliance or to retaliate; as a substitute for appropriate educational or behavioral support; to prevent property damage except as provided by law; as a routine school safety measure; or as a convenience to staff.
The Executive Director of Student Services [or designee] will investigate any complaint or allegation that one or more employees violated any provisions of 281 Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 103. If the district determines a violation has occurred, corrective action will be taken up to and including termination of the employees involved. If the allegation or complaint involves a specific student, the district will notify the parents/guardians of the involved student about the results of the investigation. If any allegation or complaint is also defined as abuse in 281 Iowa Administrative Code 102.2, the procedures listed in Chapter 102 will apply.
The district must comply with and implement Chapter 103 whether or not a parent/guardian consents to the use of physical restraint or seclusion.

Adopted: 1/21
Revised: 10/23
Related Policy (Code#): 502.1; 502.1-R; 502.7; 502.14; 502.14-E1-E3
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 280.21; 281 IAC 103
IASB Reference: 503.06-R(1)

502.14-E1 - Documentation of Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion of Students

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE DOCUMENTATION OF USE OF PHYSICAL RESTRAINT FORM

Physical restraint or seclusion is used to protect the safety of the student or to protect others who are likely to be in jeopardy should a student’s actions continue. All instances of physical support in the form of restraint or seclusion will be documented.

Student's Name:
Building:
Date of Occurrence:
Grade:
Teacher:
Time of Seclusion:
Time of Restraint:
Duration of Total Occurrence in Minutes:

Employee’s Full Name, Title, and Date of Last Training on Restraints and/or Seclusion: Include all who were involved with or implemented the restraint or seclusion, as well as those who observed the occurrence. Include the information of the administrator who approved the extended time, if applicable. Employees are to initial next to their name after the completed form is reviewed.

Describe the antecedent that led to the restraint/seclusion: Provide a brief description of the trigger/cause-setting events of the behavior, including both the student and adult behaviors.
Student:
Adult:

What approaches were used to deescalate the student: (Check all that apply)
____Silence/Wait Time
____Choice/Options Given
____Verbal Redirections
____Removal of Demand
____Planned Ignoring
____Time Out in Hallway
____Time Out in Classroom
____Written Redirections
____Adult Proximity (Near or Far)
____Visual Redirections
____Other (Please specify)

If there is a Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP) for the student, what strategies were used from it:

Describe the student and adult behaviors during the restraint/seclusion:
Student:
Adult:

Describe the restraint/seclusion utilized and the reason why:
____Seclusion
____CPI Restraint & Name of the CPI Restraint Used
Why Used: ____Danger to Self ____Danger to Others
What was the exact safety concern:

Describe the student and adult behaviors after the restraint/seclusion:
Student:
Adult:

Is there any property damage: ____Yes ____No
List any repairs or replacements needed:

Injury Documentation:
If "yes" is checked for any items below, please complete and return an Injury Report Form.

Visible marks noticed on student prior: ____Yes ____No
Injury to student (damage to body) during intervention: ____Yes ____No
If you answered "yes" in item 2, did the nurse check them: ____Yes ____No
If you answered "no" in item 3, why were they not checked:
Details of student injury:
Injury to staff (incident report filled out) during intervention: ____Yes ____No
If you answered "yes" in item 5, did the nurse check them: ____Yes ____No
If you answered "no" in item 6, why were they not checked:
Details of staff injury:

Describe future approaches to the student's behavior, including possible IEP meetings to address behavior concerns:

If the occurrence involved a period of physical restraint or seclusion that exceeds 15 minutes an administrator [or designee] must authorize approval of the continuation:
Time Approved:
Administrator's Name/Title:
Reason for length of occurrence:

If the occurrence involved a period of physical restraint or seclusion that exceeds 30 minutes from the last approval time, an administrator [or designee] must authorize approval of the continuation:
Time Approved:
Administrator's Name/Title:
Reason for length of occurrence:

If the occurrence lasts longer than 15 minutes a break for bodily needs should be offered if it is safe to do so:
Time break offered:
Student: _____Accepted ____Declined
If break was not offered, please explain why:

Coping Method:

Control: Check in with student and staff
Orient: What happened
Patterns: Look for patterns of past behavior
Investigate: Discuss alternatives to the behavior
Negotiate: Proceed with plan involving student and staff
Give: Give encouragement and praise to the student and staff

Coping Model Check in:
Student
Date:
Time:
Staff Present:

Staff
Date:
Time:
Staff Present:

Parent/Guardian Notification:
Parents/guardians will be notified as soon as practicable once the occurrence is under control but no more than one hour after or the end of the school day, whichever occurs first.

Spaces below for documenting multiple attempts to notify parents/guardians are listed in case they cannot be reached on the first attempt.

Notification Attempt One:
Employee Attempting Notification:
Parent/Guardian Contacted:
Time/Manner of Notification:
Was notification successful: ____Yes ____No

Notification Attempt Two:
Employee Attempting Notification:
Parent/Guardian Contacted:
Time/Manner of Notification:
Was notification successful: ____Yes ____No

Notification Attempt Three:
Employee Attempting Notification:
Parent/Guardian Contacted:
Time/Manner of Notification:
Was notification successful: ____Yes ____No

A written copy of this form was sent to the student’s parents or guardians within three school days of the occurrence. Unless the parent or guardian agreed to receive the report by email, fax, or hand delivery; the report must be sent by mail and postmarked by the third day following the occurrence. This report cannot be placed in a student’s backpack.

Enclosed with a copy of this form was an invitation for the parents or guardians to participate in a debriefing meeting scheduled in accordance with law set for the following:
Date:
Time:
Location:

Reporter's Name:
Date:
Building Administrator/Designee Signature:

Documentation Provided by: (Please check all that apply)
____By mail and postmarked within three school days of occurrence
____By electronic email upon written request of the parent/guardian
____By electronic fax
____By hand delivery
____Other by written request of the parent/guardian (Please specify other mode below)

Copies provided to: Parent/guardian, student file, and Executive Director of Student Services

Adopted: 2/21
Reviewed: 10/23
Related Policy: 502.14; 502.14-R; 502.14-E2-E3

502.14-E2 - Notice of Debriefing Meeting Regarding Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion of Students

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE NOTICE OF DEBRIEFING MEETING REGARDING USE OF PHYSICAL RESTRAINT

Date:

Dear [Names of Parents/Guardians],

Recently your student, [Add student’s full legal name here], was involved in an occurrence at school that required their physical restraint and/or seclusion as defined by 281 Iowa Administrative Code, Chapter 103; which is included with this letter. A report related to the occurrence is also included with this letter.

I am inviting you to attend a debriefing meeting to engage with us on topics related to this occurrence. With your assistance, we want to foster the continued health, safety, and educational growth of your student. The law requires debriefing meetings be held for such occurrences under the following circumstances:

Following the first instance of seclusion or physical restraint during a school year;
When any personal injury (including physical, mental, and/or psychological) occurs as part of the use of seclusion or physical restraint;
When a reasonable educator would determine a debriefing session is necessary;
When suggested by a student’s IEP team;
When agreed to by the parents/guardians and school officials; and
After seven instances of seclusion or physical restraint of the student.

This letter is intended to inform you that a debriefing meeting, due to reason ________ listed above, will be held on:
Date:
Time:
Location & Address:

The following employees will be in attendance at the meeting (include name and title):

If you need to reschedule this meeting, please contact me as soon as possible via email or phone and at least one school day prior to the original date and time listed above.

Your student is allowed to attend this meeting with your consent, and you are welcome to bring a representative of your choosing, if you wish. If you plan to bring a representative, please let me know at least one school day prior to the meeting so that we have an opportunity to make the necessary arrangements to accommodate their attendance.

We look forward to working with you.

Administrator’s Name and Title:
Date:

Administrator's Email:
Phone:

Enclosures:
*Report related to student occurrence
*Copy of 281 Iowa Administrative Code, Chapter 103

Disclaimer: This letter and the included items must be mailed via postage, prepaid, first class mail to the parent/guardian within three school days of the original occurrence unless it is agreed upon to have it transmitted electronically via email/fax or picked up in person.

Adopted: 2/21
Reviewed: 10/23
Related Policy: 502.14; 502.14-R; 502.14-E1; 502.14-E3

502.14-E3 - Documentation of Debriefing Meeting Regarding Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion of Students

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE DOCUMENTATION OF DEBRIEFING MEETING REGARDING USE OF PHYSICAL RESTRAINT

Student Name:
Building:
Date of Original Occurrence:
Date of Debriefing Meeting:
Time of Meeting:
Location of Meeting:

Names of all attendees including titles and/or relation to student:
(*Denotes a role required for attendance)
Parent:
Student:
*Administrator:
*Administrator not involved in occurrence:
*Names of those who administered seclusion/restraint:
Behavior/Mental Health Expert:
Others in Attendance (Name and Title):

Documentation reviewed during the meeting: (Check all that apply)
____Seclusion/Restraint Report
____Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
____Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP)
____Individualized Health Plan (IHP)
____Safety Plan
____Other (Please specify)

Identification of patterns or behavior and proportionate response, if any, in the student and employees involved:

Possible alternative responses, if any, to the incident; or less restrictive means, if any:

Additional resources, if any, that could facilitate alternative responses in the future:

Plans for additional follow up actions, if any:

Names and Title of Employee Completing Form:
Date:
Date Delivered to Parent/Guardian:
Method of Transmittal:

Adopted: 2/21
Reviewed: 10/23
Related Policy: 502.14; 502.14-R, 502.14-E1-E2

502.15 - Discipline of Students Who Make Threats of Violence or Cause Incidents of Violence

INTRODUCTION
The 2023 Iowa Acts, Chapter 96 (House File 604), signed by Governor Reynolds on May 26, 2023, requires the Iowa Department of Education to develop and distribute a model policy for school districts and charter schools that, if adopted, satisfies a school district's or charter school’s responsibilities under Iowa Code 279.79 established by the Act. These model policies are intended to support a school district and charter school in meeting the requirements of new Iowa Code section 279.79 and in developing policies for different grade levels that describe how a school district or charter school may discipline a student for making a threat of violence or causing an incident of violence that results in injury or property damage or assault.

Districts are required to:

Publish the district policy on the district website (2023 Iowa Acts, Chapter 96 [House File 604], section 7, new section 279.79, subsection 1).
Provide each parent or guardian with a copy of the policy and require the parent or guardian acknowledge receipt of the policy in writing or electronically (2023 Iowa Acts, Chapter 96 [House File 604], section 8).

DISCIPLINE POLICY
Discipline is designed to promote behavior that will enable students to learn and successfully participate in their educational and social environments. The district discipline policy for students who make a threat of violence or commit an act of violence is developed to help students understand their obligations to others in the school setting, secure the safety of all students, staff and the community, and to correct student behavior if a violation occurs (2023 Iowa Acts, Chapter 96 [House File 604], section 7, new section 279.79, subsection 1).

Students will conduct themselves in a manner fitting their age, grade 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 tailored to the age, grade level and maturity of the student.

Discipline and other responses to threats or incidents of violence by a student with a disability, including removal from a class, suspensions, and expulsions, will comply with the provisions of applicable federal and state laws including, but not limited to, the IDEA, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (2023 Iowa Acts, Chapter 96 [House File 604], section 7, new section 279.79, subsection 3).

DISTRICT RESPONSE TO A THREAT OR INCIDENT OF VIOLENCE BY A STUDENT

REPORTING A THREAT OF VIOLENCE OR INCIDENCE OF VIOLENCE
In the case of any threat of violence or incident of violence that results in injury, property damage or assault by a student, the teacher will report to the school principal or lead administrator within 24 hours of the incident. The principal or lead administrator will notify the parent or guardian of the student(s) who threatened or perpetrated an act of violence and the student(s) who the threatened or perpetrated act of violence was made against within 24 hours after receipt of the teacher’s report and complete an investigation of the incident as soon as possible. The classroom teacher may also notify the parent or guardian of the student who made the threat or caused the incident, and the parent or guardian of the student against whom the threat or incident was directed (2023 Iowa Acts, Chapter 96 [House File 604], section. 4).

An investigation will be initiated by the principal or lead administrator upon learning of an incident of violence or threat of violence through any credible means. If the principal or lead administrator finds that an incident of violence or threat of violence did occur, the administrator will determine the level of threat or incident by considering all aspects of the situation, including the student's intent and knowledge of the impact of their actions, their developmental level and context of the incident. The resolution will focus on identifying the cause behind the behavior and appropriate corrective action (2023 Iowa Acts, Chapter 96 [House File 604], section 7, new section 279.79, subsections 1 and 4).

A student who makes a threat of violence, causes an incident of violence that results in injury or property damage, or who commits an assault, will be subject to escalating levels of discipline for each occurrence. When appropriate, referrals will be made to local law enforcement. The district retains the authority to assign the level of disciplinary measures appropriate to the severity of the threat of violence or incident of violence (2023 Iowa Acts, Chapter 96 [House File 604], section 7, new section 279.79, subsection 5).

THREAT OF VIOLENCE
Threat of violence means a written, verbal, electronic or behavioral message that either explicitly or implicitly expresses an intention to inflict emotional or physical injury, property damage, or assault.

INCIDENT OF VIOLENCE
Incident of violence means the intentional use of physical force or power against oneself, another person, a group or community or property resulting in injury, property damage or assault.

INJURY
Injury means “physical pain, illness or any impairment of physical condition.” State v. McKee, 312 N.W.2d 907, 913 (Iowa 1981).

PROPERTY DAMAGE
Property damage means any destruction, damage, impairment or alteration of property to which the individual does not have a right to take such an action. Property means real property, which includes any real estate, building, or fixture attached to a building or structure, and personal property, which includes intangible property (Iowa Code Section 4.1(21)).

ASSAULT
Assault means 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 (following Iowa Code Section 708.1).

ESCALATING RESPONSES BY GRADE BAND
Click here to view the escalating responses by grade band

DEFINITIONS (Consistent with the Iowa Department of Education's Data Dictionary 2022-23

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.

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.

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

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

PLACEMENT IN AN ALTERNATIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT means placement of a student in an environment established apart from the regular educational program that includes rules, staff and resources designed to accommodate student needs and to provide a comprehensive education consistent with the student learning goals and content standards established by the school district.

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.

Adopted: 11/23
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.79; 2023 Iowa Acts, CH 96; HF604
IASB Reference: 503.08

502.15-R - Student Threats of Violence and Incidents of Violence Regulation

Effective student discipline policies serve the needs of the district in maintaining the order of the education environment while safeguarding the education interests of all students. For this reason, it is crucial to engage many perspectives in crafting sound policies related to discipline. The board, in conjunction with teachers and administrators in the district, have assigned further meaning to concepts listed in this policy.

INCIDENT LEVELS DEFINED
Incident levels must escalate, with Level 1 being less severe than Level 3 incidents. However, the district maintains discretion in applying the level of discipline appropriate for an incident. In make this determination, the administration will consider the following definitions of incident levels. Because no definition could encompass all possible threats or incidents, the administration has discretion in determining which level to assign the incident after looking at the nature of the incident as well as the age, grade level, and maturity of the student. (Visit Policy 502.15 for the level definitions)

TIMEFRAME FOR DETERMINING REPEATED INCIDENTS
The district will consider all incidents occurring within ______ [the school year] as sufficiently close in proximity between incidents to establish that a repeated incident has occurred. The administration will have discretion to alter this timeframe when appropriate under the circumstances, depending on the nature of the incident as well as the age, grade level, and maturity of the student.

CONSIDERATION FOR DETERMINING THE MATURITY OF THE STUDENT
The district believes that gauging the maturity of a student is subject to interpretation and best left to the licensed employees who interact most closely with the student on a regular basis. Assessing a student’s maturity level is based on individual characteristics unique to each student. Therefore, in making a determination about the maturity of a student, the administration may consult with the student’s classroom teacher and other relevant licensed staff.

CONSIDERATION FOR DETERMINING WHETHER THE OFF-CAMPUS THREAT OF VIOLENCE OR INCIDENT OF VIOLENCE WILL DIRECTLY AFFECT THE GOOD ORDER, EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT, AND WELFARE OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT

The district recognizes that student maintain First Amendment rights to free expression both within school and outside. However, free speech protections are not absolute and do not extend to true threats of violence toward an individual or a group of individuals. In considering whether a threat or incident of violence will directly affect the good order, efficient management, and welfare of the school district necessitating the need for investigation, the administration will consider, among other things, the following factors:

The specificity of the threat for time, location, or individual(s) targeted;
The reasonable likelihood of the student’s ability to carry out the threat;
The reasonable likelihood that the threat will interfere with the operation of the educational environment.

In addition to the notification requirements in policy, the administration will apprise the parents or guardians of any student who suffered violence of a threat of violence, of the rights to file complaints under any other relevant board policies including, but not limited to, anti-bullying/anti-harassment and Title IX.

Adopted: 2/24
Related Policies: 106.1; 403.3; 502.8; 502.8-R; 502.15
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 279.79
IASB Reference: 503.08-R(1)

503 - Student Activities

503.1 - Student Government

A student council provides for student activities, serves as a training experience for student leaders, promotes the common good, provides students opportunities for feedback 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 building principal, in conjunction with the students and licensed employees, will set forth the guidelines for student government participation, operations, and other elements of the government.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 5/06
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 279.8
IASB Reference: 504.01

503.2 - Student Organizations

District or school student-initiated, non-curriculum-related groups and student curriculum-related groups, upon receiving permission from the building 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 building 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 building principal to determine whether a student group is curriculum related. One or more of the following questions will be answered affirmatively if the group is curriculum-related:

Is the subject matter of the group taught in a regularly offered class?
Will the subject matter of the group soon be taught in a regularly offered class?
Does the subject matter of the group concern the curriculum content as a whole?
Is participation in the group required for a particular class?
Does participation in the group result in academic credit?

District or school curriculum-related student organizations may use 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 or sponsor curriculum-related organizations.

NON-CURRICULUM-RELATED ORGANIZATIONS
Student-initiated, non-curriculum-related organizations will be provided access to meeting spaces and school district facilities.

Only students may attend and participate in meetings of non-curriculum-related groups. Such attendance is strictly voluntary and student initiated. As a means of determining whether a student’s attendance is voluntary, the building 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 meetings or assist in planning, criticize, or encourage attendance. Only students may be involved in and attend the non-curriculum meetings.

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

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 5/06
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 287; 297.9
IASB Reference: 504.02 Option I

503.4 - Student Activity Program

Participation in school activities is a privilege. Students may participate in interscholastic athletic activities, music, speech, and other contests or events approved by the administration. Any such event must be directed or guided by licensed school personnel.

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.

Student activity events must be approved by the superintendent unless they involve unusual travel and expense, in which case the board will take action. A high school student who participates in school-sponsored activities may participate in a non-school sponsored activity during the same season. Such outside participation will not conflict with the school-sponsored activity.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent in conjunction with building principals 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, forms and procedures for a waiver of liability from the parent and student in certain activities, and proof of insurance for the student participating in certain activities. Students wanting to participate in school activities must meet the requirements set out by the district for participation in the activity.

Hours, behavior, and activities will be reasonable and proper as determined by the administration. Anyone who does not recognize the authority and responsibility of the school personnel will not be permitted to remain in attendance at school-sponsored activities.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/13
Related Policy: 502.5-R3; 502.6; 503.5-6
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): 216.9; 280.13-14; 281 IAC 12.3(6), 12.6, 36.15(7)
IASB Reference: 504.06
Mandatory Policy

503.5 - Reserved Time for Non-School-Sponsored Student Activities

In keeping with community culture and family-related opportunities, Sundays and Wednesday evenings will be reserved for non-school-sponsored student activities.

On Wednesdays during the school year, no district-sponsored activity will detain students after 7:00 PM.

Any district activity scheduled on Sundays or after 7:00 PM on Wednesdays during the school year must have advance, written approval from the superintendent [or designee].

Building principals will notify students and parents on an annual basis regarding the provisions of this policy and confirm that students will be excused without penalty.

The Linn-Mar Community School District is not responsible for activities scheduled by organizations outside the district.

Adopted: 1/88
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 10/23
Revised: 5/06; 9/20
Related Policy: 503.4; 503.6; 503.8

503.6 - Attendance at Events Outside of School

Events in which students participate during school hours or as representatives of the school at places outside of the school must be sponsored and supervised by licensed school personnel.

Rules of behavior will be the same as for any in-school activity or event, regardless of location.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/02
Related Policy: 502.5- 502.5-R3; 503.4; 503.5

503.7 - Honors and Awards

The school district will provide a program that establishes honors and awards including but not limited to academic letters, scholarships, and good citizenship awards to recognize meritorious achievement. Students will be made aware of honors and awards and the action necessary on the part of the student to achieve them.

Students who have not attended the school district for their entire education or have not attended an accredited public or private school may not be eligible for honors and awards.

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

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 5/06
Legal Reference: § 279.8
IASB Reference: 505.03

503.8 - Intramural Activities

Intramural programs may be established in the schools of the Linn-Mar Community School District.

All such activities will be approved by the building principal and will be under the direction of school personnel.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/90
Related Policy: 502.5-502.5-R3; 503.4; 503.5; 503.6

503.10 - Student Travel

Students in grades 9-12 who are involved in extra-curricular activities or educational groups which require that they attend out-of-town events will be given a per diem amount not to exceed $10.00 per meal or $30.00 a day.

The activities director [or designee] will set the amount based on what the group can afford to pay.

Adopted: 8/02
Reviewed: 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20
Revised: 5/11; 10/23
Related Policy: 502.1; 502.5-502.5-R3; 503.4-6; 503.8; 503.11

503.11 - Public Performances by Students

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 building principals 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.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/09
Related Policy: 503.4-6; 503.10
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 280.13-14; 281 IAC 12.6
IASB Reference: 504.04

503.12 - Contests and Honor Recognitions for Students

The following policy of the Linn-Mar School Board will govern student participation in local, state/regional, and national/international contests other than events sanctioned by the Iowa High School Association.

PARTICIPATION
Participation will be limited to those contests, activities, and honor recognitions that are educationally sound, worthy, and timely. The event should be stimulating for the student and school, a desirable activity for both, and should supplement and not interfere with the regular education program. Participation is voluntary. Every effort will be made to include all eligible students in participation.

NOTIFICATION OF INTENT TO PARTICIPATE
The school board recognizes that contests, activities, and honor recognitions require that potential participants demonstrate interest in and qualifications for the special events through an application process that may include audition tapes, performance videos, student work, etc. Therefore, the building principal must be consulted prior to submission of application materials to the event for feasibility and compliance with board policy.

APPROVAL
Any participation must be approved in advance as follows:

Local: building principal, 2 weeks
State/Regional: building principal and associate superintendent, 4 weeks
National/International: superintendent and board, 6 weeks

TRANSPORTATION
Upon approval by the designated administrator or school board, school funds may be used to contribute to the costs of transportation where students represent the school or district in the competition.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 5/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 1/15; 10/17; 9/20; 10/23
Revised: 6/05

504 - Student Health & Safety

504 - Student Health Services

Health services are an integral part of assisting all students to increase learning, achievement, and performance. Health services coordinate and support existing programs to assist each student in achievement of an optimal state of physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Student health services ensure continuity and create linkages between school, home, and community service providers. The school district’s needs and resources determine the linkages.

Except in emergent care situations or child abuse assessments, the district will not administer invasive physical examinations or health screenings of a student that are not required by state or federal law without first obtaining the written consent of the student’s parent or guardian.

Emergent care situation means a sudden or unforeseen occurrence of onset of a medical or behavioral condition that could result in serious injury or harm to a student or others in the event immediate medical attention is not provided. Emergent care situation includes the need to screen a student or others for symptoms or exposures during an outbreak or public health event of concern as designated by the Iowa Department of Health & Human Services.
Invasive physical examination means any medical examination that involves the exposure of private body parts or any act during such examination that includes incision, insertion, or injection into the body, but does not include a hearing, vision, dental, or scoliosis screening.
Student health screening means an intentionally planned, periodic process to identify if students may be at risk for a health concern and to determine if a referral for an in-depth assessment is needed to consider appropriate health services. Student health screening does not include an episodic, individual screening done in accordance with professional licensed practice.

The superintendent [or designee], in conjunction with the school nurses, will develop administrative regulations implementing this policy. The superintendent [or designee] will provide a written report on the role of health services in the education program to the board annually.

Adopted: 2/21
Revised: 8/23; 8/24
Related Policy: 504.1-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 22.7; 139A.3, .8, .21; 143.1; 152; 256.7(24), .11; 280.23;
281 IAC 12.3(4), (7), (11); 12.4(12); 12.8; 282 IAC 22; 641 IAC 7; 655 IAC 6;
Iowa Senate File 2080 and Iowa House File 2393
IASB Reference: 607.02
Mandatory Policy

504-R - Regulations Regarding Student Health Services

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES
Each school building may develop a customized student health services program based on its unique needs and resources. Scientific advances, laws, and school improvement necessitate supports to students with health needs to receive their education program.

Supports to improve student achievement include:

Qualified health personnel;
Superintendent, school nurse, and school health team working collaboratively;
Family and community involvement; and
Optimal student health services program with commitment to its continuing improvement.

Components provided within a coordinated school health program include:

Health services;
Nutrition;
Healthy, safe environment;
Staff wellness;
Health education;
Physical education and activity;
Counseling, psychological, and social services; and
Family and community involvement.

Student health services are provided to identify health needs; facilitate access to health care; provide for health needs related to educational achievement; promote health, well-being, and safety; and plan and develop the health services program.

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Identify student health needs:
1. Provide individual initial and annual health assessments;
2. Provide needed health screenings;
3. Maintain and update confidential health records; and
4. Communicate (written, oral, electronic) health needs as consistent with confidentiality laws.
Facilitate student access to physical and mental health services:
1. Link students to community resources and monitor follow through;
2. Promote increased access and referral to primary health care financial resources such as Medicaid, HAWK-I, social security, and community health clinics; and
3. Encourage appropriate use of health care.
Provide for student health needs related to educational achievement:
1. Manage chronic and acute illnesses;
2. Provide special health procedures and medication including delegation, training, and supervision of qualified, designated school personnel;
3. Develop, implement, evaluate, and revise Individual Health Plans (IHP) for all students with special health needs according to mandates in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Rehabilitation Act (Section 504), and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA);
4. Provide urgent and emergency care for individual and group illness and injury;
5. Prevent and control communicable diseases and monitor immunizations;
6. Promote optimal mental health;
7. Promote a safe school facility and a safe school environment; and
8. Participate in and attend team meetings as a team member and health consultant.
Promote student health, wellbeing, and safety to foster healthy living:
1. Provide developmentally appropriate health education and health counseling for individuals and groups;
2. Encourage injury and disease prevention practices;
3. Promote personal and public health practices; and
4. Provide health promotion and injury and disease prevention education.
Plan and develop the student health services program collaboratively with the superintendent, school nurse, and school health team:
1. Gather and interpret data to evaluate needs and performance;
2. Establish health advisory council and school health team;
3. Develop health procedures and guidelines;
4. Collaborate with staff, families, and community;
5. Maintain and update confidential student health records;
6. Coordinate program with all school health components;
7. Coordinate with school improvement;
8. Evaluate and revise the health services program to meet changing needs;
9. Organize scheduling and direct health services staff;
10. Develop student health services annual status report;
11. Coordinate information and program delivery within the school and between school and major constituents;
12. Provide health services by qualified health professionals to effectively deliver services, including multiple levels of school health expertise such as registered nurses, physicians, and advanced registered nurse practitioners; and
13. Provide for professional development for school health services staff.

EXPANDED HEALTH SERVICES
These additional health services address learning barriers and the lack of access to health care. Examples include school-based services in the schools, school-linked services connected to the schools, primary care, mental health, substance abuse, and dental health.

Adopted: 8/23
Related Policy: 504
IASB Reference: 607.02; 607.02-R(1)

504.1 - Student Health and Immunization Certificates

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

A copy of the physical examination form signed by the physician will be on file at the student’s attendance center. Each student will submit an up-to-date certificate of health upon the request of the superintendent [or designee]. Failure to provide this information may be grounds for disciplinary action.

Students enrolling for the first time in the school district will also submit a certificate of immunization against Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Poliomyelitis, Rubeola, Rubella, Hepatitis B, Varicella, the meningococcal vaccine, and other immunizations required by law. The student may be admitted provisionally 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 requirements after the provisional period will be grounds for suspension, expulsion, or denial of admission. Upon recommendation of the Iowa Department of Education and the Iowa Department of Health & Human Services, students entering the school district for the first time may be required to pass a TB test prior to admission. The school 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 Department of Health & Human Services Certificate of Immunization Exemption to be exempt from this policy.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 11/07; 4/18
Related Policy: 504.1-E
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 139A.8; 280.13; 281 IAC 33.5; 641 IAC 7
IASB Reference: 507.01

504.1-E - Immunization Requirements

Attention Parents and Guardians

All students entering the Linn-Mar Community School District are required by state law to meet at least the minimum immunization requirements before they are allowed to attend school. A record of these immunizations must be on file at the student’s attendance center.

No student will be allowed to attend school without the minimum
immunizations required by state law.

Minimum immunizations required to enroll in school are one dose of the following for elementary or secondary (K-12) students that are four years of age or older:

If your student was born on or after September 15, 2003:

Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT): Five doses with at least one dose of DPT received on or after four years of age;
Polio: Four doses with at least one dose received on or after four years of age;
Measles/Rubella: Two doses with the first dose received on or after 12 months of age and the second dose received no less than 28 days after the first dose or applicant demonstrates a positive antibody test for measles and rubella from a US laboratory;
Hepatitis B: Three doses if the applicant was born on or after July 1, 1994; and
Varicella (Chickenpox): Two doses received on or after 12 months of age unless the applicant has a reliable history of natural disease.

If your student was born after September 15, 2000; but before September 15, 2003:

Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT): Four doses with at least one dose of DPT received on or after four years of age;
Polio: Three doses with at least one dose received on or after four years of age;
Measles/Rubella: Two doses with the first dose received on or after 12 months of age and the second dose received no less than 28 days after the first dose or applicant demonstrates a positive antibody test for measles and rubella from a US laboratory;
Hepatitis B: Three doses if the applicant was born on or after July 1, 1994; and
Varicella (Chickenpox): One dose received on or after 12 months of age unless the applicant has a reliable history of natural disease.

If your student was born on or before September 15, 2000:

Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT): Three doses with at least one dose of DPT received on or after four years of age;
Polio: Four doses with at least one dose received on or after four years of age;
Measles/Rubella: Two doses with the first dose received on or after 12 months of age and the second dose received no less than 28 days after the first dose or applicant demonstrates a positive antibody test for measles and rubella from a US laboratory;
Hepatitis B: Three doses if the applicant was born on or after July 1, 1994; and
Varicella (Chickenpox): Two doses received on or after 12 months of age unless the applicant has a reliable history of natural disease.

If your student was born on or after September 15, 2000:

Tetanus/Diphtheria/Acellular Pertussis: One-time dose containing vaccine (Tdap) for applicants in grades 7 and above regardless of the interval service the last tetanus/diphtheria containing vaccine.

Also Required – Meningococcal Vaccine:

One dose received on or after 10 years of age for students entering 7^th grade and above if born on or after September 15, 2004;
Two doses received for students entering 12^th grade if born on or after September 15, 1999; and
One dose if received when the student is 16 years of age or older.

Provisional/Conditional Enrollment: If a student has begun immunizations but has not yet received all the required immunizations they may be able to attend school on a provisional or conditional basis. To qualify for provisional enrollment a student must have received at least one dose of each of the required immunizations. If a student falls into this category they must submit an Iowa Department of Health & Human Services Provisional Certificate of Enrollment to the school. This certificate expires in 60 days so the student must be completely immunized during this time or they will not be permitted to attend school until the immunizations have been received. When a student has received all of the required immunizations, they must submit a completed Certificate of Immunization to the school.

Adopted 6/96
Reviewed 7/13; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised 4/11; 10/14; 4/18
Related Policy: 504.01

504.2 - Communicable Diseases

Students with communicable diseases 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” means an infectious or contagious disease spread from person-to-person, animal-to-person, or as defined by law.

Prevention and control of communicable diseases will be included in the 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 recordkeeping. The plan will be reviewed annually by the school nurses and superintendent [or designee].

The health risk to immunosuppressed students will be determined by their personal physicians. The health risk to others in the school district environment from the presence of students with communicable diseases will be determined on a case-by-case basis by the student’s personal physician, a physician chosen by the school district, or public health officials.

The parent/guardian will notify the superintendent [or designee] or school nurse when the student learns they have a communicable disease. It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee] when upon investigation the superintendent [or designee] or school nurse has knowledge that a reportable, communicable disease is present to notify the Iowa Department of Health & Human Services via the Linn County Health Department. Student health data is confidential and will not be disclosed to third parties.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee] in conjunction with the school nurses to develop administrative regulations stating the procedures for dealing with students with communicable diseases.

Adopted: 6/88
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/07; 11/07
Related Policy: 504.2-R; 504.2-E1-E4
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): 139A.8; 641 IAC 1.2-5, 7
IASB Reference: 507.03

504.2-R - Regulations Regarding Communicable Diseases

EXCLUSION OF STUDENTS
A student 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. If, in the judgment of the building administrator [or designee], there is any risk of the student transmitting the disease to others the building administrator [or designee] will immediately exclude the student from school and may require the student be examined by a physician. The building administrator [or designee] may also require a written statement of health from a physician in order for the affected student to return to school.

ALTERNATIVE PROGRAM
If it is determined that the student will not be permitted to attend classes and/or participate in school activities, arrangements will be made to provide an alternative education program.

RETURN TO SCHOOL
Criteria will be established to determine whether a student with a communicable, contagious, and/or infectious disease including common childhood diseases will be permitted to attend classes. All cases will be reviewed on an individual basis.

CONFIDENTIALITY OF INFORMATION
Records of a student who has a communicable, contagious, and/or infectious disease other than a common childhood disease will be kept confidential and the name of the individual will not be revealed publicly.

APPEAL PROCESS
The student and/or parent/guardian may appeal decisions regarding exclusion from school. This appeal is to be submitted in writing to the superintendent [or designee]. The superintendent [or designee] will respond to the appeal within three school days. If the appeal is denied by the superintendent [or designee] the student and/or parent/guardian may continue the appeal with the Linn-Mar Board of Directors at their next regularly scheduled meeting.

Adopted: 6/88
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/02
Related Policy: 504.02; 504.02-E1-E4

504.2-E1 - Communicable Diseases Chart

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE COMMUNICABLE DISEASES CHART

Concise descriptions and recommendations for exclusion of cases from school.
Source: Iowa Department of Health & Human Services

Disease *Immunization Available	Usual Interval Between Exposure and First Symptoms	Main Symptoms	Minimum Exclusion from School
*Chickenpox	10-21 Days [Average 14-16 Days]	Mild symptoms and fever, pocks are blistery, and scabs develop for most on covered parts of the body	Seven days from onset of rash until all blisters have crusted
Conjunctivitis [Pink Eye]	24-72 Hours	Tearing, redness, puffy lids, and discharge	Until treatment begins or physician approves return
COVID-19 {SARS-CoV-2}	2-14 Days	Fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea	Five days after symptoms start and 24 hours with no fever and improved symptoms
Erythema Infectiosum [5th Disease]	4-20 Days	Usual age is 5-14 years, unusual in adults, brief prodrome or low grade fever followed by erythema (slapped appearance on cheeks), lace-like rash on extremities lasting a few days to three weeks, and rash seems to recur	After diagnosis; no exclusion from school
*German Measles [Rubella]	14-21 Days	Usually mild, enlarged glands in neck and behind ears, and brief rash	Seven days from onset of rash; keep away from pregnant women
*Haemophilus Meningitis	2-4 Days	Fever, vomiting, lethargy, and stiff neck and back	Until physician approves return
*Hepatitis A	Varies from 15-50 Days [Average 28-30 Days]	Abdominal pain, nausea, fever, and skin/eyes may or may not turn yellow	Fourteen days from onset of clinical disease and at least seven days from onset of jaundice
Impetigo	4-10 Days	Inflamed sores with pus	Twenty-four hours after antibiotic therapy has started or until physician approves return; avoid contact with drainage from lesions and cover lesions when attending school
*Measles	10 Days to Fever 14 Days to Rash	Begins with fever, conjunctivitis, runny nose, cough, and then blotchy red rash	Four days from onset of rash
Meningococcal Meningitis	2-10 Days [Commonly 3-4 Days]	Headache, nausea, stiff neck, and fever	Until physician approves return
*Mumps	12-25 Days [Average 16-18 Days]	Fever, swelling, and tenderness of glands at angle of jaw	Five days after onset or until symptoms have resolved
Pediculosis [Head/Body Lice]	7 Days for Eggs to Hatch	Lice and nits (eggs) in hair	No need to send home upon diagnosis and return to school after initial treatment; no-nit policy is recommended
Ringworm	4-10 Days	Scaly red patch; usually ring shaped	No exclusion from school; exclude from gymnasiums, pools, and contact sports
Scabies	2-6 Weeks for Initial Exposure 1-4 Days After Re-Exposure	Tiny burrows in skin caused by mites	Until 24 hours after treatment
Scarlet Fever Scarlantina Strep Throat	1-3 Days	Sudden onset, vomiting, fever, later a fine rash (not on face), and rash usually only with first infections	Twenty-four hours after antibiotics started and no fever
*Whooping Cough [Pertussis]	6-20 Days [Average 9-10 Days]	Head cold, slight fever, cough, and characteristic whoop after two weeks	Five days after start of antibiotic treatment

READMISSION TO SCHOOL
It is advisable that school authorities require written permission from the health officer, school physician, or attending physician before any student is readmitted to school following any disease which requires exclusion, not mere absence, from school.

Reviewed: 7/13; 11/17; 12/20
Revised: 4/11; 10/14; 4/18; 8/21; 10/23

504.2-E2 - Communicable Disease Outbreak

ACTION STEPS

Encourage staff or families with students who may have a communicable disease to alert the school;
Contact the school nurse if student/staff absentee rate is greater than 10% due to illness;
Report rate to building principal and superintendent [or designee];
Report rate to Linn County Public Health (319-892-6000);
If school cancellation is recommended by Linn County Public Health, consult with building principal and superintendent [or designee];
If cancellation should occur, superintendent [or designee] will assist in getting information to the families and public; and
Recommended guidelines about common communicable illnesses are available to families and staff from Linn-Mar Health Services. The school nurses will consult with administration regarding distribution of these guidelines.

Adopted: 11/07
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/09
Related Policy: 504.02; 504.02-R; 504.02-E(1); 504.02-E(3)-E(4)

504.2-E3 - Diseases Reportable to Iowa Department of Health & Human Services

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE DISEASES REPORTABLE TO IOWA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

Disease Reporting Hotline (1-800-362-2736)

Report information requested on disease reporting form which may be obtained by calling 1-888-398-9696.

EMERGECY REPORTABLE DISEASES OR CONDITIONS: REPORT BY PHONE IMMEDIATELY!

Botulism	# Measles	Rabies (Human)
Cholera	> Meningococcal Invasive Disease	Vancomycin-Resistant Staph Aereus
Diphtheria	Plaque	Yellow Fever
> Haemophilus Influenza Type B Invasive Disease	# Polio

Also, outbreaks of any kind, unusual syndromes, and uncommon diseases should be reported immediately by phone. These could be infectious, environmental, or occupational in origin and include food-borne outbreaks and illness secondary to chemical exposure (e.g. pesticides, anhydrous ammonia).

AGENTS OF TERRORISM
Diseases or syndromes of any kind caused by a biological, chemical, or radiological agent or toxin when the provider reasonably believes or suspects that the agent or toxin may be the result of a deliberate act such as terrorism. Examples of these agents or toxins include but are not limited to anthrax, mustard gas, sarin gas, ricin, tularemia, and smallpox.

DISEASES REPORTABLE BY MAIL OR PHONE

Common-Reportable Diseases	Rare-Reportable Diseases
Campylobacteriosis	Anthrax
Cryptosporidiosis	# Brucellosis
COVID-19 [SARS-CoV-2]	Cyclospora
> Encephalitis, Arboviral	# Hansen's Disease (Leprosy)
# Escherichia Coli O157:H7 (And Related Diseases HUS & TTP)	Hantavirus Syndromes
Giardiasis	Listeria Monocytogenes Invasive Disease
# Hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E	# Malaria
> Legionellosis	Mumps
# Lyme Disease	Psittacosis
# Pertussis	# Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
Rabies (Animal)	# Rubella (Including Congenital)
# Salmonellosis (Including Typhoid Fever)	# Tetanus
# Shigellosis	> Toxic Shock Syndrome
# Tuberculosis	# Trichinosis

DISEASES REPORTABLE ONLY BY SENDING ISOLATES TO STATE HYGIENIC LAB (319) 335-4500

Enterococcus Invasive Disease	Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aereus Invasive Disease
Group A Streptococcus Invasive Disease	Streptococcus Pneumonia Invasive Disease

# Diseases that require follow-up by local health agency
> Diseases that require follow up by hospital infection control practitioner
Isolates in bold type should be sent to State Hygienic Laboratory
Report on a quarterly basis to UHL: Total number of Invasive Staphylococcus Aereus isolates

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 11/07; 8/21
Related Policy : 504.02; 504.02-R; 504.-02-E(1)-E(2); 504.02-E(4)

504.2-E4 - Disease Reporting Card

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE DISEASE REPORTING CARD

Disease reporting is required by Iowa Administrative Code [641]-1 (139A).
To report call (800) 362-2736 or fax (515) 281-5698 or Iowa Disease Surveillance Systems (IDSS).

DISEASE AND REPORTING INFORMATION

Disease/Event:	Species/Type/Group:
Specimen Source:	Date Collected:
Onset Date:	Date Reported to IDPH:
Epi Link? Yes No Unknown	Isolate to UHL? Yes No Unknown
Reporter's Name:	Phone:
Reporting Facility's Name:

PATIENT INFORMATION

Name (Last, First, Middle):	Date of Birth:
Address:	Age:
City/State/Zip/County:	Gender: M F Unknown
Marital Status: Single Married Divorced Widowed Unknown	Pregnant: Yes No Unknown
Race: White Black/African American American Indian/Alaska Native Asian Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Other Unknown
Ethnicity: Hispanic/Latino Not Hispanic/Latino Unknown
If minor, parent/guardian name(s):	Home Phone:
Work Phone:	Other Phone:

Long-Term Care Facility Resident: Yes No Unknown	Facility Name:
Is the Case Employed: Yes No Unknown	Employer Name:
City:	State:
In this case does the case: Handle Food Work in a healthcare setting Work in a lab setting
Is the case enrolled in school or attending a childcare facility: Yes No Unknown
School/Childcare Name:	City: State:

Hospitalized for this disease: Yes No	Where:
Admission Date:	Was death due to this disease: Yes No

HEALTHCARE PROVIDER AND LABORATORY INFORMATION

Name and Title of Healthcare Provider:	Name of Laboratory:
Facility or Clinic:	Laboratory Phone:
City and State:	City and State:
Phone:	Does the case have clinical symptoms: Yes No Is the case lab confirmed: Yes No
Comments:

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 11/07
Related Policy: 504.02; 504.02-R; 504.02-E(1)-E(3)

504.3 - Student Injury or Illness at School

When a student becomes ill or is injured at school or a school-sponsored activity, the school district will attempt to notify the student's parent/guardian as soon as possible.

The school district, while not responsible for medical treatment of an ill or injured student, will have employees administer emergency or minor first aid if possible. An ill or injured student will be released to the care of the parent/guardian or qualified medical personnel as quickly as possible.

It is the responsibility of the principal [or designee] to file an accident report for any incident with the superintendent [or designee] within 24 hours after the student is injured.

Annually, parents/guardians will be 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 parent/guardian and alternative numbers to call in case of an injury or illness.

The superintendent [or designee] will be responsible, in conjunction with the district health services staff, to develop rules and regulations governing the procedures in the event a student should become ill or be injured at school or a school-sponsored activity. The school district reserves the right to take necessary actions to respond to a health or safety emergency.

Refer to Policy 504.3-R for regulations to follow regarding management of medical emergencies.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 12/13; 10/14
Related Policy: 504.3-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 613.17
IASB Reference: 507.04

504.3-R - Regulations Regarding Management of a Medical Emergency

The following information provides a basis for the management of a medical emergency. All schools throughout the Linn-Mar Community School District have emergency response teams that will respond to an emergency and follow guidelines per American Red Cross training.

ASSESS THE SITUATION

For safety of the individual (protect from further injury)
For safety of the responder (personal protective equipment, universal precautions as applicable to situation)

ASSESS SEVERITY OF INJURY/ILLNESS OF INDIVIDUAL

Airway
Breathing
Circulation
Obtain history of incident from individual witness if possible

ACTIVATE BUILDING EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM

Call 911 for emergency medical assistance
Provide appropriate life support or first aid

NOTIFY

Family/emergency contact
School nurse
Building administration

No injured or ill student should be sent home or to a medical facility without the knowledge and permission of the parent/guardian or other responsible person. If emergency situation is life-threatening, call 911, even if the parent/guardian cannot be reached.

Document incident using Complete Variance Report.

Adopted: 10/14
Reviewed: 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Related Policy: 504.03

504.31 - Administration of Medication to Students

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

Medication shall be administered when the student’s parent/guardian 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 Policy 504.32.

When administration of medication requires ongoing professional health judgement, an Individual Health Plan (IHP) shall be developed by licensed health personnel working under the auspice of the school with collaboration from the parent/guardian, individual’s health care provider, or education team pursuant to 281.14.2(256). Students who have demonstrated competence in administering their own medications may self-administer their medication. A written statement by the student’s parent/guardian 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 parent/guardian and prescribing licensed health care professional regardless of competency.

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

A written medication administration record will be on file including:

Date;
Student’s name;
Prescriber or person authorizing administration;
Medication;
Medication dosage;
Administration time;
Administration method;
Signature and title of the person administering medication; and
Any unusual circumstances, actions, or omissions.

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

Disposal of unused, discontinued/recalled, or expired abandoned medication shall be in compliance with federal and state laws. 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.

Adopted: 5/91
Reviewed: 4/11; 7/13; 10/14; 12/20
Revised: 4/12; 4/16; 10/17; 4/18; 6/20; 8/21; 3/23; 8/23
Related Policy: 504.31-E1-E2; 504.32
Iowa Code: §§ 124.101(1); 147.107; 152.1; 155A.4(2); 280.16; 280.23; 655 IAC §6.2(152); 281 IAC §14.1-2
IASB Reference: 507.02
Mandatory Policy

504.31-E1 - Parent/Guardian Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Medication or Special Health Services to Students

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE PARENT/GUARDIAN AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE FORM FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION OR SPECIAL HEALTH SERVICESTO STUDENTS

Student’s Name (Last, first, middle): ___________________________________________________________

Birthday: _________________________ School: ______________________ Date: _____________________

School medications and special health services are administered following these guidelines:

Parent/guardian has provided a signed, dated authorization to administer prescription medication and/or provide special health services listed. Electronic signatures meet the requirement of written signatures.
The prescribed medication is in the original, labeled container as dispensed.
The prescription medication label contains the student’s name, name of the medication, the medication dosage, time(s) to administer, route to administer, and date.
Authorization is renewed annually and as soon as practical when the parent/guardian notifies the school that changes are necessary.

Prescribed Medication: ______________________________________ Dosage: ________________________

Route: _______________________________________________ Time at School: _____________________

Special health services and instructions, if indicated: _________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________
Discontinue/Re-Evaluate/Follow-Up Date for prescribed medication or special health services listed.

Prescriber’s Signature: _____________________________________________ Date: _____________

Prescriber’s Credentials (when indicated for health service delivery): _______________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: __________________

Parent/Guardian Address: ________________________________________ Phone: ____________________

Additional Information: ___________________________________________________________________

Reviewed: 7/13; 12/20
Revised: 10/14; 4/16; 10/17; 6/20; 8/21; 8/23
Related Policy: 504.31; 504.31-E2; 504.32
IASB Reference: 504.07-E(2)

504.31-E2 - Authorization - Asthma, Airway Constricting, or Respiratory Distress Medication Self-Administration Consent Form

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE AUTHORIZATION-ASTHMA, AIRWAY CONSTRICTING, OR
RESPIRATORY DISTRESS MEDICATION SELF-ADMINISTRATION CONSENT FORM

Student Name (Last, First, Middle):
Birthday:
School:
Date:

In accordance with applicable laws, 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 parent/guardian and prescribing licensed health care professional regardless of competency. The following must occur for a student to self-administer asthma medication, bronchodilator canisters or spacers, other airway constricting disease medication, or to self-administer an epinephrine auto-injector:

Parent/guardian provides a signed/dated copy of the authorization for student medication self-administration;
Parent/guardian provides a written statement from the student’s licensed health care professional (A person licensed under Chapter 148 to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine and surgery, an advanced registered nurse practitioner licensed under Chapter 152 or 152E and registered with the Board of Nursing, or a physician’s assistant licensed to practice under the supervision of a physician as authorized in Chapters 147 and 148C) containing the following:
1. Name and purpose of the medication;
2. Prescribed dosage; and
3. Times or special circumstances under which the prescribed medication is to be administered.
The medication is in the original, labeled container as dispensed or the manufacturer’s labeled container containing the student’s name, name of the medication, directions for use, and date; and
Authorization shall be renewed annually. In addition, if any changes occur in the medication, dosage or time of administration, the parent/guardian is to notify school officials immediately. The authorization shall be reviewed as soon as practical.

Provided the above requirements are fulfilled, the school shall permit the self-administration of the prescribed medication by a student while in school, at school-sponsored activities, under the supervision of school personnel, and before or after normal school activities, such as while in before-school or after-school care on school-operated property. If the student abuses the self-administration policy, the ability to self-administer may be withdrawn by the school or discipline may be imposed, after notification is provided to the student’s parent/guardian.

Pursuant to state law, the school district and its employees are to incur no liability, except for gross negligence, as a result of injury arising from self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector by the student. The parent/guardian of the student shall sign a statement acknowledging that the school district is to incur no liability, except for gross negligence, as a result of self-administration of medication or an epinephrine auto-injector by the student as provided by law.

PRESCRIBER INFORMATION
Medication:
Dosage:
Route:
Time:
Purpose for Medication and Administration/Instructions:
Special Circumstances:
Discontinue/Re-Evaluate/Follow-Up Date:
Prescriber's Signature:
Date:
Prescriber's Address:
Emergency Phone:

I request the above-named student possess and self-administer asthma medication, bronchodilator canisters or spacers, or other airway constricting disease medication(s) and/or an epinephrine auto-injector at school and in school activities according to the authorization and instructions;
I understand the school district and its employees acting reasonably and in good faith shall incur no liability for any improper use of medication or an epinephrine auto-injector or for supervising, monitoring, or interfering with a student’s self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector. I acknowledge that the school district is to incur no liability, except for gross negligence, as a result of self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector by the student;
I agree to coordinate and work with school personnel and notify them when questions arise or relevant conditions change;
I agree to provide safe delivery of medication and equipment to and from school and to pick up remaining medication and equipment;
I agree the information shared with school personnel in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and any other applicable laws;
I agree to provide the school with back-up medication approved on this form; and
I agree that the student will maintain their own self-administration records.

Parent/Guardian Signature:
Date:
Address:
Home Phone:
Cell Phone:
Work Phone:
Self-Administration Authorization Additional Information:

Adopted: 4/16
Reviewed: 11/17; 12/20
Revised: 3/23; 8/23
Related Policy: 504.31; 504.31-E1; 504.32
IASB Reference: 507.02-E(1)

504.31-E3 - Parent/Guardian Authorization and Release Form for Independent Self Carry and Administration of Prescribed Medication or Independent Delivery of Health Services by the Student

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE PARENT/GUARDIAN AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE FORM FOR INDEPENDENT SELF CARRY AND ADMINISTRATION OF PRESCRIBED MEDICATION OR INDEPENDENT DELIVERY OF HEALTH SERVICES BY THE STUDENT

Student's Name (Last, First, Middle):
Birthday:
Building:
Date:

I request the above-named student: (Parent/guardian initial below all that apply)

_____ Carry and complete co-administration of prescribed medication, when competency has been demonstrated to licensed health personnel working under the auspices of the school. In accordance with applicable laws, 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 parent/guardian and prescribing licensed health care professional regardless of competency. The information provided by the parent/guardian for medication administration is confidential as provided by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and any other applicable laws. I agree to provide safe delivery of the medication to and from school and to pick up remaining medication at the end of the school year or when medication is expired. If the student abuses the self-administration policy, the ability to self-administer may be withdrawn by the school or discipline may be imposed, after notification is provided to the student’s parent/guardian.

Prescribed Medication: _______________ Dosage: _________ Route: ___________ Time: ________

_____ Co-administer, participate in planning, management, and implementation of special health services at school and school activities after demonstration of proficiency to licensed health personnel working under the auspices of the school. The information provided by the parent/guardian for health service delivery is confidential as provided by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and any other applicable laws. I agree to coordinate and work with school personnel and the prescriber (if indicated) when questions arise. I agree to provide safe delivery of the student’s equipment necessary for health service delivery to and from school and to pick up remaining equipment at the end of the school year.

Special Health Services Delivery:

Procedures for abandoned medication disposal shall be in accordance with applicable laws.

Prescriber’s Signature (and credentials when indicated for health service delivery):
Date:

Parent/Guardian Signature:
Date:
Phone:
Address:

Adopted: 8/23
Related Policy: 504.31; 504.31-E1-E2
IASB Reference: 507.02-E(3)

504.31-E4 - Parent/Guardian Authorization and Release Form for Administration of Voluntary School Stock of Over-the-Counter Medication to Students

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PARENT/GUARDIAN AUTHORIZATION AND RELEASE FORM FOR ADMINISTRATION OF VOLUNTARY SCHOOL STOCK OF OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATION TO STUDENTS

Student's Name (Last, Middle, First):
Birthday:
Building:
Date:

The district supplies the following nonprescription, over-the-counter medications that are listed below. Generic brands may be substituted (Select all that apply):

Acetaminophen administered per manufacturer label
Ibuprofen administered per manufacturer label

Voluntary school stock of nonprescription, over-the-counter medications are administered following these guidelines;

Parent/guardian has provided a signed, dated annual authorization to administer of the nonprescription, over-the-counter medication(s) listed according to the manufacturer instructions. Electronic signature meets the requirement of written signature.
The nonprescription, over-the-counter medication is in the original, labeled container and dispensed per the manufacturing label.
All other nonprescription, over-the-counter medication not listed will require a written parent/guardian authorization and supply for the over-the-counter medication.
Supplements are not nonprescription, over-the-counter medications approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and are NOT applicable.
Nonprescription, over-the-counter medications approved by the FDA that require emergency medical service (EMS) notification after administration are NOT applicable.
Persons administering nonprescription, over-the-counter medication include licensed health personnel working under the auspices of the school and individuals, whom licensed health personnel have delegated the administration of medication with valid certification who have successfully completed a medication administration course approved by the department and annual medication administration procedural skills check.
- Districts stocking the administration of a voluntary stock of nonprescription, over-the counter medications, collaborate with licensed health personnel to develop and adopt a protocol shared with the parent/guardian to define at a minimum:
  - When to contact the parent/guardian when a nonprescription medication, over-the-counter medication is administered;
  - Documentation of the administration of the nonprescription, over-the-counter medication and parent/guardian contact;
  - A limit to the administration of a school’s stock nonprescription, over-the-counter medications that would require a prescriber signature for further administration of a school’s nonprescription, over-the-counter medications for the remaining school year; and
  - The development of an Individual Health Plan (IHP) for ongoing medication administration or health service delivery at school.

I request the above-named student receive the voluntary stock nonprescription, over-the-counter medications supplied by the school in accordance with the district guidelines and protocol.

Parent/Guardian Signature:
Date:
Address:
Phone:

Adopted: 8/23
Related Policy: 504.31; 504.31-E1-E3
IASB Reference: 507.02-E(4)

504.32 - Stock Prescription Medication Supply

The Linn-Mar Community School District seeks to provide a safe environment for students, staff, and visitors who are at risk of potentially life-threatening incidents including severe allergic reactions, respiratory distress, and opioid overdose. Therefore, it is the policy of the district to annually obtain a prescription for epinephrine auto-injectors, bronchodilator canisters and spacers, and/or opioid antagonists from a licensed health care professional, in the name of the school district, for administration by a school nurse or personnel trained and authorized to administer to a student or individual who may be experiencing an anaphylactic reaction, respiratory distress, or acute opioid overdose.

PROCUREMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF SUPPLY
The district shall stock a minimum of the following for each attendance center:

Two epinephrine auto-injectors;
Two bronchodilator canisters and spacers; and
Two doses naloxone or other opioid antagonist.

The supply of such medications shall be maintained in a secure, easily accessible area for an emergency within the school building, or in addition to other locations as determined by the district.

The school nurse or trained and authorized personnel shall routinely check stock of medication and document in a log monthly:

The expiration date;
Any visualized particles or color change for epinephrine auto-injectors, or
Bronchodilator canister damage.

The school nurse or trained and authorized personnel shall be responsible for ensuring the district replaces, as soon as reasonably possible, any logged epinephrine auto-injector, bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist that is empty after use, damaged, or close to expiration. The district shall dispose of stock medications and delivery devices in accordance with state laws and regulations.

TRAINING
A school nurse or personnel trained and authorized may provide or administer any of the medications listed in this policy from a school supply to a student or individual if the authorized personnel or school nurse reasonably and in good faith believes the student or individual is having an anaphylactic reaction, respiratory distress, asthma or other airway-constricting disease, or opioid overdose. Training to obtain a signed certificate to become personnel authorized to administer an epinephrine auto-injector, bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist shall consist of the requirements of medication administration established by law and an annual anaphylaxis, asthma, other airway-constricting disease, opioid overdose training program approved by the Department of Education.

Authorized personnel will be required to retake the medication administration course, training program, and provide a procedural skills demonstration to the school nurse demonstrating competency in the administration of stock epinephrine auto-injectors, bronchodilator canisters or spacers, or opioid antagonist to retain authorization to administer these medications if the following occur:

Failure to administer an epinephrine auto-injector, bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist according to generally accepted standards of practice (“medication error”); or
Accidental injury to school personnel related to improperly administering the medication (“medication incident”).

REPORTING
Authorized personnel will contact the school nurse or emergency medical services (911) immediately after a stock bronchodilator canister is administered to a student or individual. The school nurse retains accountability for professional nursing judgment with the administration of stock bronchodilator and whether to contact emergency medical services in accordance with Iowa law.

The district will contact emergency medical services (911) immediately after a stock epinephrine auto-injector or stock opioid antagonist is administered to a student or individual. The school nurse or authorized personnel will remain with the student or individual until emergency medical services arrive.

Within 48 hours, the district will report to the Iowa Department of Education:

Each medication incident with the administration of stock epinephrine; bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist;
Each medication error with the administration of stock epinephrine, bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist; and
Administration of a stock epinephrine auto-injector, bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist.

As provided by law, the district, board, authorized personnel or school nurse, and the prescriber shall not be liable for any injury arising from the provision, administration, failure to administer, or assistance in the administration of an epinephrine auto-injector, bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist provided they acted reasonably and in good faith.

The superintendent [or designee] may develop an administrative process to implement this policy.

Adopted: 4/16
Reviewed: 11/17; 12/20
Revised: 3/23; 4/23; 8/23
Related Policy: 504.31; 504.31-E1-E4
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 135.185, .190; 279.8; 281 IAC 14.3; 655 IAC 6.2(2)
IASB Reference: 804.05

504.32-E Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Voluntary School Supply of Stock Medication for Life-Threatening Incidents

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE PARENTAL AUTHORIZATION FORM FOR ADMINISTRATION
OF VOLUNTARY SCHOOL SUPPLY OF STOCK MEDICATION FOR LIFE-THREATENING INCIDENTS

Student Name:
Student Birthdate:
Building:
Date:

The district seeks to provide a safe environment for students, staff, and visitors who are at risk of potentially life-threatening incidents. The district supplies the following prescription medications for life-threatening incidents that are listed below. Generic brands may be substituted. (Select all that apply)

_____ Epinephrine Auto-Injectors

_____ Bronchodilator

_____ Bronchodilator Canisters and Spacers

_____ Opioid Antagonist

Pursuant to state law, the district or its employees are to incur no liability for any injury arising from the provision, administration, failure to administer, or assistance in the administration of the selected prescription medications supplied by the district for life-threatening incidents provided they have acted reasonably and in good faith.

The parent/guardian shall sign consent for the student to receive the voluntary school supply of stock medications listed for life-threatening incidents and a statement acknowledging that the district is to incur no liability as a result of administration of a prescription medication for life-threatening incidents provided the school district to have acted reasonably and in good faith. Electronic signatures meet the requirement of written signatures.

I request the above-named student be administered the voluntary stock supply of prescription medication(s), in the name of the school district, by a school nurse or personnel trained and authorized to administer to a student who, acting reasonably and in good faith, perceives the student may be experiencing symptoms associated with a life-threatening incident following the administration instructions listed as identified in the required annual awareness training associated with the stock medication(s) above and after completion of the medication administration course requirements.
I understand the school district and its employees acting reasonably and in good faith shall incur no liability as a result of administration of the prescription medication(s) for life-threatening incidents provided the school district to have acted reasonably and in good faith.

Parent/Guardian Signature: (Agreed to above statements)
Date:

Adopted: 10/23
Related Policy: 504.32
IASB Reference: 804.5-E(1)

504.5 - Use of Motor Vehicles

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

Students who drive to and park at their school attendance center shall only drive to and park at their designated attendance center. Students may not loiter around or be in their vehicle during the school day without permission from the building 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 building principal.

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

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/09
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 321
IASB Reference: 502.10

504.7 - Emergency School Closings

The superintendent [or designee] will have the authority to close schools because of extreme weather or other emergency conditions for the length of time the emergency exists.

The superintendent will make provisions to publicly announce such closings via available mass communication media as soon as possible after the decision to close.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/98
Related Policy: 504.10; 701.11; 807.1-2; 902.7; 902.12-12R

504.10 - Emergency Drills

Students will be informed of the appropriate action to take in an emergency. Emergency drills for fire, weather, intruders, and other disasters will be conducted each school year.

Fire and tornado drills are conducted regularly during the academic school year with a minimum of two before December 31^st and two after January 1^st.

Intruder drills will be conducted regularly during the academic school year with a minimum of one before December 31^st and one after January 1^st.

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 during the drills.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/07; 11/17
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 100.31
IASB Reference: 507.05

504.11 - Student Special Health Services

The school board recognizes that there are some students who are in need of special health services during the school day.

Students with Individualized Health Plans (IHP) will receive confidential health services in conjunction with their Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Accommodation Plan.

The superintendent [or designee] in conjunction with licensed health personnel will establish administrative regulations for the implementation of this policy.

Adopted: 2/96
Reviewed: 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/09; 4/11
Related Policy: 504.11-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 256.11(7): 256B; 273.2, .5, .9(2-3); 280.8; 281 IAC 14.2
IASB Reference: 507.08

504.11-R - Regulations Regarding Student Special Health Services

Some students who require special education need special health services in order to participate in the educational program. These students will receive special health services in accordance with their Individualized Health Plan (IHP).

A. Definitions

Assignment and Delegation: Occurs when licensed health personnel, in collaboration with the education team, determine the special health services to be provided and the qualifications of individuals performing the health services. Primary consideration is given to the recommendation of the licensed health personnel. Each designation considers the student’s special health service. The rationale in accordance with licensed practice for the designation is documented. If the designation decision of the team differs from the licensed health professional, team members may file a dissenting opinion in the student’s education record.

Co-Administration: The eligible student’s participation in the planning, management, and implementation of the student’s special health service and demonstration of proficiency to licensed health personnel.

Educational Program: Includes all school curricular programs and activities both on and off school grounds.

Education Team: May include the eligible student, the student’s parent, administrator, teacher, licensed health personnel, others involved in the student’s educational program, or as described in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Health Assessment: Health data collection, observation, analysis, and interpretation relating to the eligible student’s educational program.

Health Instruction: Education by licensed health personnel to prepare qualified, designated personnel to deliver and perform special health services contained in the eligible student’s health plan. Documentation of education and periodic updates are on file at school.

Individual Health Plan: The confidential, written, preplanned, and ongoing special health service in the educational program. It includes assessment, nursing diagnosis, outcomes, planning, interventions, evaluation, student goals (if applicable), and a plan for emergencies. The plan is updated as needed and at least annually. Licensed health personnel develop this written plan with collaboration from the parent or guardian, the individual’s health care provider, or education team.

Licensed Health Personnel: Includes licensed registered nurses, licensed physicians, and other licensed health personnel legally authorized to provide special health services and medications under the auspices of the district.

Prescriber: Licensed health personnel legally authorized to prescribe special health services and medications.

Qualified Designated Personnel: Persons instructed, supervised, and competent in implementing the eligible student’s health plan.

Special Health Services: Includes, but is not limited to, services for eligible students whose health status (stable or unstable) requires:

Interpretation or intervention;
Administration of health procedures and healthcare; or
Use of a health device to compensate for the reduction or loss of a body function.

Supervision: The assessment, delegation, evaluation, and documentation of special health services by licensed health personnel. Levels of supervision include situations in which licensed health personnel are:

Physically present;
Available at the same site; or
Available on call.

B. Licensed health personnel will provide special health services under the auspices of the district. The duties of the licensed health personnel include:

Participate as a member of the education team;
Provide the health assessment;
Plan, implement, and evaluate the written Individual Health Plan (IHP);
Plan, implement, and evaluate the special emergency health services;
Serve as a liaison and encourage participation and communication with health service agencies and individuals providing health care;
Provide health consultation, counseling, and instruction with the eligible student, the student’s parent, and the staff in cooperation and conjunction with the prescriber;
Maintain a record of special health services. The documentation includes the eligible student’s name, special health services, prescriber or person authorizing, date and time, signature and title of person providing the special health services, and any unusual circumstances in the provision of such services;
Report unusual circumstances to the parent, school administration, and prescriber;
Assign and delegate to, instruct, provide technical assistance, and supervise qualified designated personnel; and
Update knowledge and skills to meet special health service needs.

C. Prior to the provision of special health services the following will be on file:

Written statement by prescriber detailing the specific method and schedule of the special health services, when indicated;
Written statement by the student’s parent requesting the provision of the special health services;
Written report of the preplanning staffing or meeting of the education team; and
Written Individual Health Plan (IHP) available in the health record or integrated into the Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).

D. Licensed health personnel, in collaboration with the education team, will determine the special health services to be provided and the qualifications of individuals performing the special health services. The documented rationale will include the following:

Analysis and interpretation of the special health service needs, health status stability, complexity of the service, predictability of the service outcome, and risk of improperly performed service;
Determination that the special health services, tasks, procedures, or function is part of the designated person’s job description;
Determination of the assignment and delegation based on the student’s needs and qualifications of school personnel performing the health services;
Review of the designated person’s competency; and
Determination of initial and ongoing level of supervision, monitoring, and evaluation required to ensure quality services.

E. Licensed health personnel will supervise the special health services, define the level and frequency of supervision, and document the supervision.

F. Licensed health personnel will instruct qualified, designated personnel to deliver and perform special health services contained in the eligible Individual Health Plan (IHP). Documentation of instruction, written consent of personnel as required in Iowa Code 280.23, and periodic updates are on file at school.

G. Parents will provide the usual equipment, supplies, and necessary maintenance for such, unless the district is required to provide the equipment, supplies, and maintenance under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The equipment is stored in a secured area. The personnel responsible for the equipment are designated in the Individual Health Plan (IHP). The IHP will designate the role of the school, parents, and others in the provision, supply, storage, and maintenance of necessary equipment.

Adopted: 2/96
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20
Revised: 8/02; 10/23; 8/24
Related Policy: 504.11
IASB Reference: 507.08-R(1)

504.12 - Wellness

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

The school district will provide a comprehensive learning environment for developing and practicing lifelong wellness behaviors. The district encourages healthy goals to positively influence a student’s understanding, beliefs, and habits as they relate to good nutrition and regular physical activity. In accordance with law and this belief, the school board commits to the following:

Nutrition Education and Promotion: Schools will provide nutrition education and engage in nutrition promotion that helps students develop lifelong healthy eating habits;
Physical Activity: Schools will provide students with age and grade appropriate opportunities to engage in physical activity that meets the Iowa Health Kids Act; and
Other School Based Activities that Promote Wellness: As appropriate, schools will support students, staff, and parent/guardian efforts to maintain healthy lifestyles.

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

Meals served through the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program will be appealing and meet, at a minimum, nutrition requirements established by state and federal law;
Schools providing access to healthy foods outside the reimbursable meal programs before school, during school, and 30 minutes after school shall meet the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Smart Snacks in Schools nutrition standards, at a minimum. This includes such items as those sold through a la carte lines, vending machines, student run stores, and fundraising activities;
Snacks provided to students during the school day without charge (e.g., class parties) will meet standards set by the district in accordance with law. The district will provide parents/guardians with a list of foods and beverages that meet nutrition standards for classroom snacks and celebrations; and
Schools will only allow marketing and advertising of foods and beverages that meet the Smart Snacks in School nutritional standards on campus during the school day.

The superintendent [or designee] shall implement and ensure compliance with the policy by:

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

Adopted: 8/06
Reviewed: 4/12; 7/13; 10/14
Revised: 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 256.7(29); 256.11(6); 81 IAC 12.5; 58.11
IASB Reference: 507.09
Mandatory Policy

504.12-R - Regulations Regarding Wellness

To implement the wellness policy (Refer to Policy 504.12), the following district-specific goals have been established:

GOAL 1: NUTRITION EDUCATION AND PROMOTION
Schools will provide nutrition education and engage in nutrition promotion that help students develop lifelong healthy eating behaviors. The goals for addressing nutrition education and nutrition promotion include the following:

Provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote and protect their health;
Ensure nutrition education and promotion are not only part of health education classes, but also integrated into other classroom instruction through subjects such as math, science, language arts, social studies, and elective subjects;
Include enjoyable, developmentally appropriate, culturally relevant, and participatory activities such as cooking demonstrations or lessons and taste-testing;
Promote fruits, vegetables, whole-grain products, low-fat and fat-free dairy products, and healthy foods;
Emphasize caloric balance between food intake and energy expenditure (promotes physical activity/exercise);
Link with school meal programs, cafeteria nutrition promotion activities, other school foods, and nutrition-related community services; and
Implement evidence-based healthy food promotion techniques through the school meal programs using Smarter Lunchroom techniques.

GOAL 2: PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Schools will provide students and staff with age and grade appropriate opportunities to engage in physical activity that meet federal and state guidelines, including the Iowa Healthy Kids Act. The goals for addressing physical activity include the following:

Develop a comprehensive, school-based physical activity program (CSPAP), that includes the following components:
- Physical education, recess;
- Classroom-based physical activity;
- Walk to school; and
- Out of school time activities;
Promote the benefits of a physically active lifestyle and help students develop skills to engage in lifelong healthy habits;
Engage students in moderate to vigorous activity during at least 50% of physical education class time;
Encourage classroom teachers to provide short physical activity breaks (3-5 minutes), as appropriate;
Offer classroom health education that complements physical education by reinforcing the knowledge and self-management skills needed to maintain a physically active lifestyle;
Ensure physical activity is not used for or withheld as a punishment;
Afford elementary students with recess according to the following:
- At least 20 minutes a day;
- Outdoors as weather and time permits; and
- Encourages moderate to vigorous physical activity; and
Scheduled to avoid extended periods of inactivity.

GOAL 3: OTHER SCHOOL-BASED ACTIVITES THE PROMOTE STUDENT WELLNESS
Schools will support student, staff, and parent/guardian efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle, as appropriate. The goals for addressing other school-based activities that promote student wellness include the following:

Provide parents/guardians a list of foods and beverages that meet nutrition standards for classroom snacks and celebrations;
Provide school staff a list of alternative ways to reward students. Foods and beverages will not be used as rewards or withheld for punishment;
Develop a plan to promote staff health and wellness;
Share information about the nutritional content of meals with parents/guardians and students;
Support the consumption of breakfast at school by implementing alternative breakfast options to the extent possible;
Permit students to bring and carry water bottles filled with water throughout the day;
Make drinking water available where school meals are served during mealtimes;
Encourage fundraising efforts held outside school hours to sell only non-food items, promote physical activity, or include foods and beverages that meet or exceed the Smart Snacks nutrition standards;
Strive to provide students with at least 10 minutes to eat after sitting down for breakfast and 20 minutes after sitting down for lunch;
Discourage students from sharing foods or beverages during meal or snack times, given concerns about allergies and dietary needs; and
Apply for USDA’s Healthier US School Challenge: Smarter Lunchroom Award, a certification initiative that recognizes schools for nutrition and physical activity excellence.

PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
There is a process for permitting parents/guardians, students, representatives of the school food authority, teachers of physical education, school health professionals, the school board, administrators, and the public to participate in the development, implementation, and periodic review and update of the policy.

The district has a local Wellness Committee to advise the district on the development, implementation, and improvement of the school wellness policy (Refer to Policy 504.12);
The superintendent [or designee] invites suggestions or comments concerning the development, implementation, and improvement of the school wellness policy. As such, interested persons are encouraged to contact the superintendent [or designee].

Adopted: 10/23
Related Policy: 504.12
IASB Reference: 507.90-R(1)

504.13 - Transgender and Students Nonconforming to Gender Role Stereotypes

The Iowa Civil Rights Act (Iowa Code Section 216.9) and Title IX protect transgender students from sex and/or gender discrimination and clearly delineates that protection from unfair practices and discriminatory acts in education, including gender identity.

The Linn-Mar Community School District is committed to serving the educational needs of the community and underscores its commitment by supporting all students in a safe learning environment. This policy relates to students who are transgender and students who do not conform to gender role stereotypes. In order to maintain a safe learning environment for all students, we must first ensure equal access to all components of the educational system.

While the administrative procedures established in Policy 504.13-R (Administrative Regulations Regarding Transgender and Students Nonconforming to Gender Role Stereotypes) provide important direction to employees, students, families, and other persons; they do not anticipate every situation that might occur with respect to students who are transgender or gender nonconforming. When an issue or concern arises that is not adequately addressed by these administrative procedures, district administration will consider and assess the needs and concerns of each student on an individual bases in consultation with parents, when appropriate.

This policy and Policy 504.13-R apply to all school activities, school-provided transportation, and school-sponsored events regardless of where they occur.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee] to develop regulations regarding this policy.

Note: Policy 504.13-R was deleted in March 2023

Adopted: 4/22
Related Policy: 103.1; 103.1-R; 103.1-E1-E3; 104.1; 104.1-R; 104.1-E1-E5; 104.3
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): 216.9 and Title IX

504.14 - Student Disclosure of Identity

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

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

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

Adopted: 8/23
Related Policy: 504.14-E1-E2
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): SF496
IASB Reference: 503.07

504.14-E1 - Report of Student Disclosure of Identity

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FORM

Dear Parent/Guardian,

This letter is to inform you that your student (Insert student's name as listed on school registration form) has made a request of a licensed employee to: (Check all that apply)

_____Make an accommodation that is intended to affirm the student's gender identity as follows:

_____________________________________________________________________________________

_____Use a name, pronoun, or gender identity that is different from the name, pronoun, and/or gender identity listed on
the student's school registration forms. The name, pronoun, or gender identity requested is: ________________

If you would like to amend the student’s registration paperwork to permit the student’s requested accommodation and/or include the use of the above-referenced name/pronoun/gender identity, please complete the attached form (Refer to Policy 504.14-E2) and return it to the Student Support Services office (3556 Winslow Road, Marion, IA 52302).

Sincerely,

Administrator's Signature: _______________________________
Building: ___________________________________________
Date: ______________________________________________

Adopted: 8/23
Revised: (/24
Related Policy: 504.14; 504.14-E2
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): SF496
IASB Reference: 503.07-E(1)

504.14-E2 - Request to Update Student Identity

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD REQUEST TO UPDATE STUDENT IDENTITY

Student's name on current school registration forms: ___________________________________

Date: _______________________________

Please update my student's names, pronouns, and/or gender identities on my student's school registration paperwork to include all of the following:

Names: ___________________________________________________________________

Pronouns: _________________________________________________________________

Gender Identities: ____________________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ____________________________________________________

Date: ________________________________

Adopted: 8/23
Related Policy: 504.14; 504.14-E1
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): SF496
IASB Reference: 503.07-E(2)

505 - Miscellaneous Matters

505.2 - Internal Accounts

Collection of any funds for school activities must have the approval of the superintendent [or designee] and the recommendation of the building principal. All such funds will be under the financial control of the school board.

Records and procedures relating to internal accounts will be in accordance with those found in Uniform Financial Accounting for Iowa Schools published by the Department of Education.

An audit of these accounts will be made at the same time as the annual audit of school funds.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 7/90

505.3 - Fines, Fees, and Charges

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

The superintendent [or designee] will inform the school board of the dollar amount to be charged to students or others for fines, fees, or charges on an annual basis and the information will be posted on the district website.

Legal custodians or students who complete the official district Free and Reduced Application and meet the specific financial eligibility standards as set by the Department of Education Bureau of Food and Nutrition or by direct certification from the Department of Human Services through Student Reporting in Iowa (SRI) will automatically be granted full or partial fee waivers depending on their qualification. Legal custodians or students who do not participate in the district’s Free and Reduced Meal Program may qualify for full, partial, or temporary waivers by completing the Temporary Standard Fee Waiver Application (Policy 505.3-E).

Fines or charges assessed for damage or loss to school property are not fees and will not be waived.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee] in conjunction with building principals to implement administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Adopted: 9/96
Reviewed: 4/12; 7/13; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 4/11; 10/14; 11/17
Related Policy: 505.3-R; 505.3-E; 802.3
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 256.7(20); 279.8; 280.10-11; 282.6; 285.1; 301.1; 281 IAC 18.2
IASB Reference: 503.03
Mandatory Policy

505.3-R - Regulations Regarding Student Fee Waiver and Reduction Procedures

The board recognizes that while certain fees charged to students are appropriate and authorized, certain students and their families (hereafter referred to as legal custodians) are not financially able to pay the fees. The school district will grant either full waivers, partial waivers, or temporary waivers depending upon the circumstances and the student’s or the legal custodian’s ability to meet the financial criteria.

WAIVERS
Full Waivers: A student will be granted a full waiver of fees charged by the district if the student or student's legal custodian meets the financial eligibility criteria for free meals under the Child Nutrition Program, Family Investment Program, Supplemental Security Income Guidelines, or transportation assistance under open enrollment. Students in foster care are also eligible for full waivers. The waiver application is available through the Linn-Mar Nutrition Services Department.

Partial Waivers: A student will be granted a partial waiver (50% reduction) of fees charged by the district if the student or the student's legal custodian meets the financial eligibility criteria for reduced price meals offered under the Child Nutrition Program. The waiver application is available through the Linn-Mar Nutrition Services Department.

Temporary Waivers: A student may be eligible for a temporary waiver of fees charged by the district in the event the student's legal custodian is facing financial difficulty. Temporary waivers may be applied for at any time throughout the school year and will not extend beyond the end of that school year.

APPLICATION
Legal custodians or students who do not participate in the district’s Free and Reduced Meal Program by completing the district’s official Free and Reduced Application or by direct certification through the Department of Human Resources must complete a Temporary Standard Fee Waiver Application (Policy 505.3-E) provided by the district to be eligible for a fee waiver. Applications may be made at any time but must be renewed annually.

CONFIDENTIALITY
The district will treat the application and application process as any other student record. Student confidentiality and access provisions will be followed.

APPEALS
Denial of a fee waiver may be appealed to the superintendent [or designee].

NOTICE
The district will notify the legal custodians and students of the waiver on an annual basis. The following information will be included in registration materials and printed in the district’s annual handbook:

Students whose legal custodians meet the income guidelines for free and reduced price meals, the Family Investment Program (FIP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), transportation assistance under open enrollment status, or who are in foster care are eligible to have their student fees waived or partially waived.

Students whose legal custodians are experiencing temporary financial difficulty may be eligible for a temporary waiver of student fees. Legal custodians or students who believe they may qualify for temporary financial hardship may print the Temporary Standard Fee Waiver Application (Policy 505.3-E) from the district’s website or contact the Nutrition Services Department to obtain a form. This waiver does not carry over from year-to-year and must be completed on an annual basis.

Adopted: 9/96
Reviewed: 4/12; 7/13; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 4/11; 10/14
Related Policy: 505.3; 505.3-E
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 256.7; 279.8; 280.10-11; 282.6; 285.1; 301.1; 281 IAC 18.2
IASB Reference: 503.03-R(1)

505.3-E - Standard Fee Waiver Application

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FORM

School Year:
Date:

All information provided in connection with this application will be kept confidential.

Name of Student:
Grade:
Building:
Name of Parent/Guardian (Or legal/actual custodian):
Address:

Please check type of waiver desired:
_____Full Waiver
_____Partial Waiver
_____Temporary Waiver

Please check if the student of the student's family meets the financial eligibility criteria or is involved in one of the following programs:
Full Waiver
_____Free meals offered under the Children Nutrition Program
_____Family Investment Program (FIP)
_____Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
_____Transportation assistance under open enrollment status
_____Foster care

Partial Waiver
_____Reduced priced meals offered under the Children Nutrition Program

Temporary Waiver: If none of the above apply but you wish to apply for a temporary waiver of school fees because of serious financial problems, please state the reason for the request. _____________________________________________________________________________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian (or legal/actual custodian):
Note: Your signature is required for the release of information regarding the student or the family's financial eligibility for the programs checked above.

Administrative Action: _____Approved _____Denied
By:
Date:

Completed fee waiver forms shall be filed annually and will remain on file in the school office for five years.

Please return this form to:
Linn-Mar Community School District
Business Office
3556 Winslow Road
Marion IA 52302

Reviewed: 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20
Revised: 10/23; 9/24
Related Policy: 505.3; 505.3-R

505.4 - Commencement

Students who have met the requirements for graduation will be allowed to participate in commencement exercises provided they abide by the commencement rules organized by the school district.

It is the responsibility of the building 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.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/02
Related Policy: 605.5; 605.31; 605.31-R; 605.31-E1-E2
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 279.8; 280.3; 281 IAC 12.5
IASB Reference: 505.07

505.5 - Interviews with Students by Outside Agencies

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

Requests from law enforcement officers and from persons other than employees, school district officials, and parents 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.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 9/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 9/09
Related Policy: 505.5-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 232; 280.17; 281 IAC 102; 441 IAC 9.2, 155, 175
IASB Reference: 502.09

505.5-R - Regulations Regarding Interviews with Students by Outside Agencies

INTERVIEWING STUDENTS AT SCHOOL BY SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER
Certain police officers may be assigned by the local police department to serve as School Resource Officers. These officers will be present in the schools and will interact with the students, staff, parents, and other visitors to the school. School Resource Officers may interact with students and interview students regarding school-related issues without any prior permission or involvement of other school staff. If School Resource Officers wish to interview students regarding non-school related law enforcement concerns, they should follow the process listed below entitled Interviewing Students at School by Police.

INTERVIEWING STUDENTS AT SCHOOL BY POLICE
While the police have a legal right to interview students at school, students have a legal right to refuse to answer any questions if they so desire.

School officials cannot refuse to permit police officers to interview students at school. If the interview is held at school an effort will be made to contact the student’s parent/legal guardian and/or attorney. Prior to the interview the principal [or designee] will explain to the student that police officials would like to interview them and that they can lawfully refuse to answer questions from the police official. The school official will be present during the interview.

It is preferable to conduct the interview in the home of the student. If contact with the parent/legal guardian prior to the interview cannot be made and the interview must be held at school, the parent/legal guardian must, subsequently, be informed that an interview was held.

INTERVIEWING STUDENTS AT SCHOOL BY CHILD PROTECTIVE AGENCY
The Department of Human Services is empowered to investigate reports of suspected child abuse. Human Services may, in the course of their investigation, deem that it is necessary to talk to the child outside the home. If an authorized Human Services investigator requests to interview an alleged child abuse subject at school, district personnel should cooperate.

The following guidelines should be followed:

Administrators will cooperate with the investigator by providing confidential access to the child named in the report and to other children alleged to have relevant information for the purposes of interviews. The investigators will determine who will be present at the interview. The school administrator is under no duty to report the investigation or interview to the child’s parent or legal guardian. The immunity granted by Iowa Code Section 232.73, applies to such administrators and the school district.
Administrators will verify that the investigator is authorized by the child protective agency and then cooperate with the investigation as outlined above. A law officer (police, sheriff, or juvenile court officer) may take a child from the school to facilitate the investigation.

INTERVIEWING STUDENTS AT SCHOOL BY ATTORNEY
Attorneys have no legal right to interview students at school concerning any matter. Principals should refuse to permit these interviews unless written parental/legal guardian permission has been granted. No teacher should discuss privileged information relative to a student’s attendance, academic achievement, intellectual capabilities, or any other privileged or confidential information held by the school or contained in its records without a written request and consent to release such information from a parent/guardian having legal custody of the student.

INTERVIEWING STUDENTS AT SCHOOL BY ESTRANGED PARENTS
Caution should be observed in allowing interviews with students by parents with whom the child is not living. In some cases, courts remove parental rights. In these cases, the parent who retains guardianship must agree to the conference before it can be approved.

INTERVIEWING STUDENTS AT SCHOOL BY OTHER PERSONS
District procedures do not generally permit students to be interviewed by public officials, private detectives, merchants, or other persons without authorization of parents/legal guardians. Principals will use their own judgment in making exceptions to this general procedure.

Adopted: 7/13
Reviewed: 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Related Policy: 505.5

505.52 - Child and Dependent Adult Abuse Reporting by Licensed Personnel

It is the policy of the Board of Directors in compliance with the Code of Iowa to provide for the greatest possible protection of victims of child and dependent adult abuse and to encourage immediate reporting of suspected cases directly to the Department of Human Services.

The administration will develop reporting procedures that comply with legal requirements and will instruct members of the professional staff of their obligations in regard to reporting child and dependent adult abuse.

All licensed school employees, teachers, coaches, school nurses, paraeducators, and all school employees 18 years of age or older are required to orally report any suspected cases of child and dependent adult abuse to the Department of Human Services within 24 hours of observation, followed up by a written report within 48 hours of the oral report. Reports must be made by all observers and not a third party.

Adopted: 7/79
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 12/20
Revised: 8/02; 11/17; 10/23
Related Policy: 505.52-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 232.67-77; 232A; 235A; 280.17; 441 IAC 9.2, 155, 175
IASB Reference: 402.02-03

505.52-R - Regulations Regarding Child and Dependent Adult Abuse Reporting by Licensed Personnel

The Code of Iowa requires all licensed school employees, teachers, coaches, school nurses, para-educators, and all school employees 18 years of age or older to report to the Department of Human Services all instances of suspected child and dependent adult abuse involving students. The law further specifies that all licensed school employee, teachers, coaches, school nurses, para-educators, and all school employees 18 years of age or older who knowingly or willfully fails to report a suspected case of child abuse is guilty of a simple misdemeanor and may also leave the employee open to civil liability for the damages caused by their failure to report. Iowa Code provides immunity from any liability, civil or criminal, to anyone participating in good faith in the making of a report or in judicial proceedings that may result from the report.

CHILD ABUSE DEFINED
Child abuse or abuse means harm occurring through:

Any non-accidental physical injury or injury that is at variance with the history given of it suffered by a child (any person under 18 years of age) as a result of the acts or omissions of a person responsible for the care of the child; or
The commission of any sexual abuse with or to a child as defined by Chapter 709 of the Iowa Code as a result of the acts or omissions of the person responsible for the child.

Teachers in public schools are not considered persons responsible for the care of the child under these clauses. However, a teacher who abuses a child is subject to civil, criminal, and professional sanctions.

The failure on the part of a person responsible for the care of a child to provide for the adequate food, shelter, clothing, or other care necessary for the child’s health and welfare when financially able to do so or when offered financial or other reasonable means to do so. A parent/legal guardian legitimately practicing religious beliefs who does not provide specified medical treatment for a child for that reason alone will not be considered abusing the child; however, a court may still order that medical services be given to the child if the child’s health requires it.

REPORTING PROCEDURES
The Iowa Code establishes reporting and investigation procedures for alleged cases of child abuse. All licensed school employees, teachers, coaches, school nurses, para-educators, and all school employees 18 years of age or older are required to orally report within 24 hours to the Department of Human Services when the person reasonably believes a child has suffered from abuse. Within 48 hours of the oral report, a written report must be forwarded to the Department of Human Services.

Each report should contain as much of the following information as can be obtained within the time limit:

Name, age, and address of the suspected abused child;
Name and address of parents/guardians or persons legally responsible for care;
Description of injuries including evidence of previous injuries;
Names, ages, and condition of other children in the home;
Child’s whereabouts if different from parents/guardians or persons legally responsible for the child;
Any other information considered helpful; and
Name and address of person making the report.

The law specifies that a report will be considered valid even if it does not contain all of the above information.

Board policy states that it is not the responsibility of school employees to prove that a child has been abused or neglected and that school employees should not take it upon themselves to investigate the case or contact the family of the child to ask questions or make any kind of judgment. The Department of Human Services has the responsibility to follow up on the report (Cedar Rapids Office: 319-892-6700).

Adopted: 7/79
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 12/20
Revised: 8/02; 11/17; 10/23
Related Policy: 505.52
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 232.67-77; 232A; 235A; 280.17; 441 IAC 9.2, 155, 175
IASB Reference: 402.02-.03

505.6 - Education Records Access

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 are maintained in the administrative offices of the student attendance centers.

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

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 18 years or attends a postsecondary institution. The parents of an eligible student are provided access to the 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 information relating to themselves or be informed of the information.

Parents, eligible students, and other individuals authorized in accordance with law will have the right to access the student’s education records during regular business hours of the school district upon request without unnecessary delay and in no instance more than 45 calendar days after the request is made. Parents, other than parents of an eligible student, may be denied access to a student’s education 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 my not access the student’s education records. Parents, eligible students, or authorized representatives 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 eligible 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 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 eligible student believes the information in the education record is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the privacy of the student, the parents or eligible student may request that the school district amend the education records.

Education records may be disclosed in limited circumstances without written permission of the parent or eligible student. 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 parent or 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 parent the education records are being sent and the parent has 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 US Comptroller General, the US 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 the parents of a dependent student as defined in the Internal Revenue Code;
To comply with a court order or judicially issued subpoena;
In connection with a health or safety emergency;
As directory information; or
In additional instances as provided by law.

The administrative offices of the student attendance centers 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 parent or 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 administrative offices of the student attendance centers 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 administrative offices of the student attendance centers do 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 the education records.

Permanent education records, including a student’s name, address, phone number, grades, attendance record, classes attended, grade level completed, and year completed will 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 will be notified. This notice is normally given after a student graduates or otherwise leaves the district. If the parents or eligible student requests 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 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 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 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/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 [or designee] of the attendance center where the student is currently or was enrolled. The principal [or designee] 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 notify parents and eligible students annually that they have the right to:

Inspect and review the student’s education records;
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;
Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent the law authorizes disclosure without consent; and
File a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the law.

The notice will be given in the native language of the parents or eligible student. 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 the right to file a complaint alleging the school district failed to comply with this policy. Complaints are forwarded to: Family Policy Compliance Office, US Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, Washington, DC. 20202-8520.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 12/20
Revised: 8/07; 8/17; 10/19; 10/23
Related Policy: 505.6-R; 505.6-E2-E7
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 22; 279.9B; 280.24-25; 622.10; 281 IAC 12.3(4); 41
IASB Reference: 506.01
Mandatory Policy

505.6-R - Regulations Regarding Use of Education Records

Parents/legal guardians and eligible students have the right to access a student’s education records during regular business hours of the school district upon request without unnecessary delay and, in no instance, more than 45 calendar days after the request is made. The intent of this regulation is to establish procedures for granting requests from eligible students and parents/legal guardians to access a student’s education records.

EDUCATION RECORDS means those records that contain information directly related to a student and which are maintained by an education agency or by a party acting for the agency or institution. These may include but are not necessarily limited to dates of attendance; academic work completed; level of achievement (grades, standardized test scores); attendance data; scores on standardized intelligence, aptitude, and psychological tests; interest inventory results; health data; family background information; teacher or counselor ratings and observations; and verified reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns.

ACCESS TO RECORDS

Parents/legal guardians, eligible students, and other individuals authorized in accordance with law will have access to the student’s education records during the regular business hours of the school district. Parents/legal guardians and eligible students will have the right to access the student’s education records upon request without unnecessary delay and, in no instance, more than 45 calendar days after the request is made. An eligible student or parent/legal guardian, upon written request to the administrative office of the student attendance center, will receive an explanation and interpretation of the education records. A student who is 18 years or older has the right to determine who, outside the school system, has access to their records. Parents/guardians of students who are 18 years or older, but are still dependents for income tax purposes, may access the student’s education records without prior permission of the student.
School officials having access to student education records are defined as having a legitimate educational interest. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, AEA employee, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent/legal guardian or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee or student assistance team or assisting another school official in performing their tasks.

RELEASE OF INFORMATION OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL
Information from education records may be disclosed to outside parties as outlined in board policy and otherwise provided by law.

PROCEDURES FOR REQUESTING AN EDUCATION RECORD AMENDMENT

1. If the eligible student or parent/legal guardian believe the information in the student’s education records is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the privacy of the student the parents/legal guardians or eligible student may request the school district amend the education records.

2. The school district will decide whether to amend the student’s education record within a reasonable time after receipt of the request.

3. If the school district determines an amendment is made to the student’s education record, the school district will make the amendment and inform the parents/legal guardians or eligible student of the decision in writing.

4. If the school district determines the amendment of the student’s education record is not appropriate, the district will inform the parents/legal guardians or eligible student of their right to a hearing held before a hearing officer provided by the district. The hearing officer may be an employee of the district so long as the employee does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing.

5. Upon parental/legal guardian request, the school district will hold a hearing regarding the content of a student’s education records which the parent/legal guardian believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the privacy rights of students.

6. The hearing will be held within a reasonable time after receipt of the parent/legal guardian or eligible student’s request. The parents/legal guardians or eligible student will receive reasonable advance notice of date, time, and place of the hearing.

7. The parents/legal guardians or eligible student will be given a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relevant to the issues. The parents/legal guardians or eligible student may be represented by an individual of their choice and at their own expense.

8. The hearing officer will render a written decision within a reasonable period after the hearing. The decision will be based upon evidence presented at the hearing and must include a summary of the evidence and the reasons for the decision.

9. The parents/legal guardians may appeal the hearing officer’s decision in writing to the superintendent within 10 days if the superintendent does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing.

10. The parents/legal guardians may appeal the superintendent’s decision or the hearing officer’s decision, if the superintendent was unable to hear the appeal, to the school board within 15 days. It is within the discretion of the board to hear the appeal.

11. If the parents/legal guardians and the eligible student’s request to amend the education record is further denied following the hearing, the parents/legal guardians or eligible student will be informed that they have the right to place an explanatory letter in the student’s education record commenting on the school district’s decision or setting forth the reasoning for disagreeing with the school district. Additions to the student’s education records will become a part of the education records and be maintained like other education records. If the school district discloses the student’s education records, the explanation by the parents/legal guardians or eligible student will also be disclosed.

Adopted: 6/90
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 10/14; 8/17; 10/19
Related Policy: 505.6; 505.6-E2-E7
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 22; 279.9B; 280.24-25; 611.10; 281 IAC 12.3(4), 41
IASB Reference: 506.01-R(1)

505.6-E2 - Request of Non-Parent for Examination or Copies of Education Records

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD REQUEST FOR NON-PARENT FOR EXAMINATION OR COPIES OF EDUCATION RECORDS

The undersigned hereby requests permission to examine the Linn-Mar Community School District’s official education records of:

Legal Name of Student: _________________________________________________

Date of Birth: __________________________________________________________

The undersigned requests copies of the following official education records of the above student:

The undersigned certifies that they are: (check one)

_____An official of another school system in which the student intends to enroll.

_____An authorized representative of the Comptroller General of the United States.

_____An authorized representative of the Secretary of the US Department of Education or US Attorney General.

_____A state or local official to whom such is specifically allowed to be reported or disclosed.

_____A person connected with the student's application for, or receipt of, financial aid.
(Specify details: ______________________________________________________)

_____Otherwise authorized by law. (Specify details: _____________________________________________________)

The undersigned agrees that the information obtained will only be re-disclosed consistent with state or federal law without the written permission of the parents of the student or the student if the student is of majority age.

Signature: ______________________________________ Date: __________________________________

Title: ___________________________________________ Agency: _______________________________

Address: ________________________________________ Phone Number: _________________________

Approved:

Signature: ____________________________ Title: ______________________ Date: __________________

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 7/13; 10/14; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/97; 8/17
Related Policy (Code#): 505.6; 505.6-R; 505.6-E3-Ey
IASB Reference: 506.01-E(1)

505.6-E3 - Parental Authorization for Release of Education Records

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PARENTAL AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF EDUCATION RECORDS

The undersigned hereby authorizes the Linn-Mar Community School District to release copies of the following official education records:

_____________________________________________________________________________________

concerning (Full legal name of student)___________________ (Date of birth) ____________________________

(Name of last school attended) ________________________ (Years of attendance/From/To) ________________

The reason for this request is: __________________________________________________________________________________

My relationship to the child is: ___________________________________________________________________________________

Copies of the records to be release are to be furnished to:

_____ The undersigned

_____ The student

_____ Other (Specify: _______________________________________________)

Signature: ___________________________________ Date: _________________

Address: ___________________________________________________________

City: ____________________________ State: _________ Zip: ________________

Phone Number: ______________________________________________________

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 7/13; 10/14; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/17
Related Policy: 505.6; 505.6-R; 505.6-E2; 505.6-E4-E7
IASB Reference: 506.01-E(2)

505.6-E4 - Request for Hearing on Correction of Education Records

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD REQUEST FOR HEARING ON CORRECTION OF EDUCATION RECORDS

To: (Name of Student Attendance Center) _____________________________________

Address (Of Student Attendance Center) _____________________________________

As the ____________________________________(Relationship to Student) of ____________________________(Student Name)

I believe the district’s official education records are inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of
privacy or other rights of this student.

The official education records which I believe are inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the privacy or other rights of this student are: (Please be specific): _____________________________________________________________________________________

The reason I believe such records are inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the privacy or other rights of this student is: (Please share your reasons, be specific as possible):______________________________________________________________________________

I understand that I will be notified of the date, time, and place of the hearing; that I will be notified in writing of the district’s decision; and that I have the right to appeal the decision by notifying the superintendent in writing within 10 days after my receipt of the decision. I further understand that if the request to amend the student’s education record is denied, that I have the right to place an explanatory letter in the student’s education record stating I disagree with the district’s decision and why.

Signature: _____________________________________ Date: ____________________________________

Address: ________________________________________ City: ________________________ State:______

Zip: ___________ Phone Number: ___________________________________

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 7/13; 10/14; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/07; 8/17; 10/19
Related Policy: 505.6; 505.6-R; 505.6-E2-E3; 505.6-E5-E7
IASB Reference: 506.01-E(3)

505.6-E5 - Parental Request for Examination of Education Records

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PARENTAL REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION OF EDUCATION RECORDS

To: (Name of Student Attendance Center)_______________________________________

Address (Of Student Attendance Center) _______________________________________

As ________________________________________ (Relationship to Student) of ______________________________(Name of Student)

who was born on ________________________________________ and is currently in grade _________________________________.

I request to examine the following official education records:

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Please check one of the following:

_____ I do

_____I do not

desire a copy of such records and I understand that a reasonable charge will be made for copies, if requested.

Signature: ________________________________ Date: ____________________________

Address: ___________________________ City: ____________________ State: ________ Zip: __________

Phone Number: _________________________________

Approved By:

Signature: _______________________________ Title: ________________________ Date: _________

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 7/13; 10/14; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/07; 8/17; 10/19
Related Policy: 505.6; 505.6-R; 505.6-E2-E4; 505.6-E6-E7
IASB Reference: 506.01-E(4)

505.6-E6 - Notification of Transfer of Education Records

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD NOTIFICATION OF TRANSFER OF EDUCATION RECORDS

To: (Parent/Legal Guardian) ______________________________________ Date: _____________________

Address: ______________________________ City: ____________________ State: ________ Zip: ______

Please be notified that copies of the Linn-Mar Community School District's official education records concerning

(Full legal name of student) ________________________________ have been transferred to:

School District Name: _________________________________________________________

Address: ___________________________________________________________________

Upon the written statement that the student intends to enroll in said school system.

If you desire a copy of such records furnished, please check here _____ and return this form to the undersigned. A reasonable charge will be made for the copies.

If you believe such records transferred are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student, you have the right to a hearing to challenge the contents of such records.

Name of School District Official: _____________________________________________

Title: __________________________________________________________________

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 7/13; 10/14; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/17
Related Policy: 505.6; 505.6-R; 505.6-E2-E5; 505.6-E7
IASB Reference: 506.01-E(5)

505.6-E7 - Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of Subpoena or Court Order

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD LETTER TO PARENT REGARDING RECEIPT OF SUBPOENA OR COURT ORDER

Date: ______________________________________

Dear (Parent/Legal Guardian Name) __________________________,

This letter is to notify you that the Linn-Mar Community School District has received a (Subpoena or Court Order) _________________

requesting copies of your student's education records.

The specific records requested are: ______________________________________________________________________________

The school district has until (date on subpoena/court order) ____________________ to deliver the documents to (Requesting party)

_____________________________. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at:

Email: _______________________________________________ Phone Number: _____________________

Sincerely,

Name of School Official: ________________________________________ Title: ___________________

Adopted: 8/17
Reviewed: 10/19; 12/20; 10/23
Related Policy: 505.6; 505.6-R; 505.6-E2-E6
IASB Reference: 506.01-E(6)

505.62 - Student Directory Information

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 parents’ or eligible students’ rights 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 they do not want any or all of those types of information designated as directory information.

The district has designated the following as directory information:

Student’s name
Address
Phone number
Student photograph
Grade level
Dates of attendance
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 is defined as an enrolled individual, PK-12, including students in district sponsored childcare programs.

Prior to developing a student directory or giving general information to the public, parents (including parents of students open enrolled out of the district and parents of students home schooled in the 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 student's information in the directory or in the general information distributed about the students.

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

Adopted: 8/89
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/07; 8/17; 1/21
Related Policy: 505.62-R; 505.62-E; 505.63
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 22; 622.10; 281 IAC 12.3(4); 41
IASB Reference: 506.02
Mandatory Policy

505.62-R - Regulations Regarding the Use of Student Directory Information

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a federal law, requires that the Linn-Mar Community School District, with certain exceptions, obtain written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from students’ education records. However, the school district may disclose appropriately designated directory information without written consent, unless parents have advised the district to the contrary according to board policy. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Linn-Mar Community School District to include this type of information from student education records in certain school publications. Examples include:

A playbill showing a student’s role in a drama production;
Annual yearbooks;
Honor roll or other recognition lists;
Graduation programs; and
Sports activity sheets/programs

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following information: names, addresses, and phone numbers; unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.

If parents do not want the school district to disclose directory information from their student’s education records without prior written consent, they must notify the district in writing on an annual basis.

The student handbook or similar publication given to each student which contains general information about the school will contain the following statement which will be published at least annually in a prominent place or in a newspaper of general circulation in the school district:

The following information may be released to the public in regard to any individual student of the district, as needed. Any eligible student over the age of 18 or parent/legal guardian not wanting this information released to the public must make an objection in writing to the building principal annually.

Student’s name
Address
Phone number
Student photograph
Grade level
Dates of attendance
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

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/07; 8/17; 1/21
Related Policy: 505.62; 505.62-E; 505.63
IASB Reference: 506.02-R(1)

505.62-E - Parental Authorization for Withholding Student Directory Information

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE PARENTAL AUTHORIATION FOR WITHHOLDING STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION

The Linn-Mar Community School District has adopted a policy designed to assure parents and students the full implementation, protection, and enjoyment of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA). A copy of the school district’s policy is available for review in the administrative offices of all of our schools and on the district’s policy website [Refer to policies 505.62 and 505.62-R].

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

The school district has designated the following information as directory information: student’s name, address, phone number; photograph; grade level; dates of attendance; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; weight and height of members of athletic teams; degrees, honors, and awards received; and the most recent educational agency or institution attended.

Parents have the right to refuse the designation of any or all of the categories of personally identifiable information as directory information with respect to their student provided they notify the school district in writing on an annual basis. If a parent desires to make such a refusal, they should complete and return the form included at the bottom of this notice.

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

-----------------------------Return the form below to your student's attendance center main office--------------------

Parental Directions to Withhold Student Directory Information for Education Purposes

For the school year of: _________________________________________

Student's Name: _________________________________ Date of Birth: __________________

School: ________________________________________ Grade: _______________________

Please withhold the following directory information on my student (Check all that apply):

____ Name
_____ Address
____ Phone Number
____ Photograph
____ Grade Level
____ Dates of Attendance
____ 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

Signature of Parent/Legal Guardian: ______________________________ Date: ____________

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 7/13; 10/14; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/17; 1/21
Related Policy: 505.62; 505.62-R; 505.63
IASB Reference: 506.02-EH(1)

505.63 - Family and Educational Rights and Privacy Act Student Education Records Annual Notice

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (eligible students) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the district receives a request for access.

Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect. The principal (or appropriate school official) will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student's privacy rights under FERPA.

Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the school district to amend a record should write the school principal (or appropriate school official) clearly identifying the part of the education record they want changed and specifying why it should be changed.

If the district decides not to amend the education record as requested by the parent or the eligible student, the district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel) or a person serving on the school board. A school official may also include a volunteer or contractor outside of the school who performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of personally identifiable information from education records such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist; a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee or student assistance team, or assisting another school official in performing their tasks.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill their professional responsibility.

Upon request, the district may disclose education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student's enrollment or transfer. Note: FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent/legal guardian or eligible student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on request.

4. The right to file a complaint with the US Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is, Family Policy Compliance Office, US Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington DC 20202-4605.

Adopted: 8/07
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 12/20
Revised: 8/17; 10/23
Related Policy: 505.6; 505.6-R; 505.6-E2-E7
IASB Reference: 506.01-E(8)

505.7 - Parent and Family Engagement

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

The board will:

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 by:
1. Jointly reviewing and revising the Title I Plan at an annual evaluation in the spring of each school year;
2. Ensuring evaluation tools are included, but not be limited to, a parent survey, contact logs, and information gathered at the annual Parent Advisory meeting; and
3. Utilizing findings from the annual evaluation to design and implement evidence-based strategies for more effective parent and family involvement.
Provide the coordination, technical assistance, and other supports necessary to assist and build the capacity of all participating schools in planning and implementing effective parent and family involvement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance by:
1. Collaborating between the district and schools to plan and implement effective parent and family engagement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance;
2. Providing professional learning opportunities regarding effective parent and family engagement;
3. Educating teachers, specialized instructional support personnel, principals, and other school leaders and staff, with the assistance of parents, in the value and utility of contributions of parents and in how to reach out to, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners, implement and coordinate parent programs, and build ties between parents and the schools;
4. Fostering community partnerships to engage parent and families more effectively;
5. Providing parents and families timely responses to all parent recommendations; and
6. Providing opportunities for all parents to participate in Title I activities and any appropriate training/learning experiences.
To the extent feasible, coordinate and integrate parent and family engagement strategies under Title I with parent and family engagement strategies outlined in other relevant federal, state, and local laws and programs by:
1. Ensuring the Title I program works cooperatively with other programs and integrates parent involvement programs and activities, as appropriate, such as Junior Achievement and building volunteers. Title I will work with the Homeless Liaison to coordinate needs of students.
Conduct, with the involvement of parents and family members, an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness of the parent and family engagement policy in improving academic quality of the schools served; including identifying barriers to greater participation by parents in Title I activities (with particular attention to low-income parents, Limited English Proficient [LEP] parents, parents of any racial or ethnic minority, parents with disabilities, and parents with limited literacy), needs of parents and families to assist their children’s learning, and strategies to support successful school and family interactions by:
1. Conducting an annual review at the parent advisory meeting to determine the effectiveness of this policy; and
2. Ensuring the jointly agreed upon policy is distributed to parent and family members participating in Title I through the Title I parent meetings with each family. Parents will be notified of this policy in an understandable and uniform format and to the extent practicable, it will be provided in a language appropriate for parents (i.e. English and/or Spanish).
Use the findings of the annual evaluation to design strategies for more effective parent and family involvement and to revise, as necessary, the parent and family involvement policies by:
1. Ensuring the findings and feedback from the annual parent advisory meeting are used to identify and mitigate barriers to participation, identify needs parents may have so they can support their child’s learning, and identify strategies to improve school and family interactions;
2. Ensuring policy evaluation findings are used to design evidence-based strategies for effective parent and family involvement and improve the parent and family engagement policy; and
3. Ensuring all Title I parents are invited to, and encouraged to attend, the annual parent advisory meeting to review and revise the parent and family engagement policy.
Involve parents and families in Title I activities by:
1. Ensuring parent and family meetings, including parent conferences, will be held at different times during the day and Title I funds may be used to pay reasonable and necessary expenses associated with parent and family engagement activities including transportation, childcare, and/or home visit expenses to enable parents to participate in school-related meetings and training sessions;
2. Involving parents at open houses, conferences, Title I parent nights, and other school activities;
3. Contacting parents in a variety of formats such as written correspondence, phone calls, email correspondence, and face-to-face meetings; and provide timely responses to all parent recommendations and/or questions;
4. Hosting an annual parent meeting to inform parents and family members of the school’s participation in Title I and explain the requirements of the program and their right to be involved;
5. Ensuring parents are given assistance in understanding the requirements of Title I law and Iowa academic standards, as well as state and local assessments at the fall informational meeting;
6. Ensuring the school provides opportunities for regular meetings to formulate suggestions and to participate, as appropriate, in decisions relating to the education of their children; and respond to any such suggestions as soon as practicably possible;
7. Ensuring parents are informed through written notification of the reasons for their children’s participation, the curriculum, and the instructional objectives and methods of the program as students are selected for Title I services;
8. Ensuring through annual meetings and parent-teacher conferences that parents are provided with a description and explanation of curriculum in use, the assessments used to measure academic progress, and the proficiency levels students are expected to meet;
9. Ensuring a school/parent compact outlines how parents, students, and the entire school staff share the responsibility for improved student achievement and the means by which the school and parents continue to build and develop partnerships to help children achieve the local, high standard. The compact is signed upon notification of student involvement in the program and reviewed at the annual parent advisory meeting.
10. Ensuring the Title I or schoolwide program provides opportunities for parents to become partners with the school in promoting the education of their children at home and at school, parents are given help monitoring their student’s progress, the school provides assistance to parents on how they can participate in decisions related to their student’s education, and the school provides reasonable support for parental involvement activities as requested by parents (Parent trainings, materials, phone calls, volunteer opportunities, parent involvement conference, child study teams, etc.).
11. Providing materials and trainings to help parents work with their children to improve their children’s achievement such as literacy trainings and using technology (including education about the harms of copyright piracy), as appropriate, to foster parental involvement; and
12. Ensuring all Title I parent and family communication and reports, to the extent practicable, are provided in a language and format understood by parents and families in the Title I program to ensure opportunities for informed participation.

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

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

Adopted: 12/16
Reviewed: 11/17; 12/20
Revised: 10/19; 10/23
Related Policy: 505.7-R; 505.8
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): 20 USC § 6318
IASB Reference: 505.08; 505.08-R(1)
Mandatory Policy

505.7-R Parent and Family Engagement Building-Level Regulations

To further the interests of student achievement, the superintendent [or designee] will create necessary rules to engage parents and family members within the district in the following ways on a building-level basis:

Policy Involvement: The district will host an annual meeting and invite all parents to attend, and inform parents of their rights and the district’s requirements under Title I. This meeting will also invite parents to become involved in the planning, review, and improvement of a building policy and in developing the district plan. The district will inform parents of:
1. Programs under this policy;
2. Curriculum and assessments used for students;
3. The opportunity to meet with administration to participate in decisions related to their children’s education;
4. A description and explanation of curriculum used in the school and forms of academic assessments used to measure student progress; and
5. Achievement levels of the challenging State academic standards.
Accessibility: Provide opportunities for informed participation of parents and family members in understandable formats and languages. This includes participation by parents and family members who may have disabilities, limited English proficiency, and migratory children. Offer a flexible number of meetings during the day and evenings to facilitate parent involvement. The superintendent [or designee] has discretion to allow schools to provide childcare for families of students during these meetings through Title I funds.
High Student Academic Achievement: Each school in the district will jointly develop, with parents and family members, a school-parent compact that outlines how parents, staff, and students share responsibility for improving student academic achievement and how a partnership will be built to achieve this. The compact will describe the responsibility of the school to provide high quality curriculum and instruction, and the parents’ responsibility to support their children’s learning. This will also address the importance of communication between schools and parents through parent-teacher conferences, regular reports to parents on their children’s progress, and ensuring regular, meaningful communication between the family and school staff.
Building Capacity for Involvement: Each school within the district will include in their plan ways to achieve the following:
1. Assist parents and families to understand topics, including academic standards and assessments, and how to monitor student progress;
2. Provide materials and training to help parents work with students to improve achievement;
3. Educate teachers and staff in how to communicate with parents and build ties to foster academic success;
4. Coordinate and integrate other federal, state, and local programs to support parents in more fully participating in their students’ education;
5. Ensure information related to the programs is sent to parents and families in understandable formats; and
6. Provide other reasonable support to encourage parental involvement.

Adopted: 10/19
Reviewed: 12/20; 10/23
Related Policy: 505.7; 505.8
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): 20 USC § 6318
IASB Reference: 505.08; 505.08-R(1)

505.8 - Custodial and Parental Rights

Disagreements between family members are not the responsibility of the school district. The district will not take the side of one family member over another in a disagreement about custody or parental rights.

Court orders that have been issued will be followed by the school district. It is the responsibility of the person requesting an action by the school district to inform and provide the district with the court order allowing such action.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee] to ensure employees remain neutral in a disagreement about custody and parental rights.

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/07
Related Policy: 505.6; 505.7; 505.7-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 232.67, .70, .73, .75; 235A; 279.8; 710.6; 441 IAC 9.2; 155; 175
IASB Reference: 507.07

505.9 - Student Library Circulation Records

Student library circulation records are designed to be used internally to assist in the orderly administration of the school district libraries and media centers. 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 US Comptroller General, the Secretary of Education, the Commissioner and Director of the National Institute of Education, and the Assistant Secretary for Education and State Education Department. Appropriate authorities in a health or safety emergency may access the student’s library circulation records without the approval or the notification of the student’s parents. Parents may not access records without the student’s permission of a student who has reached the age of majority or who is attending a post-secondary educational institution unless the student is considered a dependent for tax purposes.

It is the school media specialist’s responsibility, as the person maintaining the student library circulation records, to approve requests for access to student library circulation records. A student’s 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 shall be charged.

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

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 4/11; 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Related Policy: 505.6
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 22; 281 IAC 12.3(4)
IASB Reference: 506.04

505.10 - Student Photographs

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

Parents will be notified prior to the taking of student portrait photographs by a commercial photographer. In no case will students be required to purchase pictures.

Students or commercial photographers may take pictures of students upon consent for such things as yearbooks or student newspapers.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee], in conjunction with building principals, to develop administrative rules regarding student photographs.

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 4/12; 7/13; 10/14; 11/17; 12/20; 10/23
Revised: 8/07
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 279.8
IASB Reference: 506.03