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.

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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

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:

1. Designate the Executive Director of Student Services [or designee] as the local homeless children and youth liaison;
2. Provide training opportunities for staff so they may help identify and meet the needs of homeless children and youth;
3. 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;
4. Ensure collaboration and coordination with other service providers;
5. Ensure transportation is provided in accordance with legal requirements;
6. Provide school stability in school assignment according to the child’s best interests;
7. Ensure the privacy of student records, as provided by applicable law, including information about a homeless child or youth’s living situation;
8. Engage in the dispute resolution process for decisions relating to the educational placement of homeless children and youth as provided by applicable law; and
9. 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.

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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

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

1. Be given oral and/or written notice of the charges;
2. Be given the opportunity to admit or deny such charges;
3. Be given an explanation of the evidence against the student if they deny the charges; and
4. 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

1. 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. 
2. 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

1. 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.
2. 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

1. Out-of-school suspension is to be used when other available school resources are unable to constructively remedy student misconduct.
2. 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.  

3. 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

1. 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.
2. 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.

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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)

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

1. 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. 
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Permission will be granted for the appearance of counsel or other representation.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. The board’s decision will be based solely upon evidence introduced at the hearing.
11. 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.
12. 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.

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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

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:

1. Eyewitness observations by employees;
2. Information received from reliable sources;
3. Suspicious behavior by the student; or
4. 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.

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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)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE SEARCH & SEIZURE CHECKLIST

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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:                                                                      

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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)

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.

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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

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:

1. Develop school spirit;
2. Provide service to the school;
3. Help students develop a feeling of competency;
4. Provide opportunities to develop social skills;
5. Provide opportunities for social mobility;
6. Provide for informal interaction between faculty members, students, and parents;
7. Provide training in citizenship and foster leadership;
8. Provide opportunities for self-expression;
9. Help students develop worthwhile activities for their leisure time;
10. Provide opportunities for recreation;
11. Provide information on vocations/careers and other topics of interest; and
12. 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:

1. 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;
2. 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;
3. 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;
4. I give permission for an authorized school official to obtain medical attention for my child in case of injury or illness;
5. I give consent for my child to engage in school approved co/extra-curricular activities as a representative of the school;
6. 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;
7. 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;
8. 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;
9. I understand that some activities require fees, such as uniform and rental fees;
10. 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
11. 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.

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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

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):

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Permanent suspension from co/extra-curricular activities; and
2. 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.

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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

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:

1. 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;
2. the frame or receiver of any such weapon;
3. any firearm muffler or firearm silencer, or
4. any destructive device.

Destructive Device means:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

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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

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

1. 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

1. 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.
2. Students will strive to achieve professional standards of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and thoroughness in each and every aspect of official school publications.
3. 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

1. 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 .
2. 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

1. Student expression may be conveyed, and official student publications may be distributed in a reasonable manner on or off school premises.
2. 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.

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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

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. An employee must continually visually monitor the student for the duration of the seclusion or physical restraint.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. The district must comply with and implement Chapter 103 whether or not a parent/guardian consents to the use of physical restraint or seclusion.

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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)

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

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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.

1. Visible marks noticed on student prior: ____Yes    ____No
2. Injury to student (damage to body) during intervention: ____Yes    ____No
3. If you answered "yes" in item 2, did the nurse check them: ____Yes    ____No
4. If you answered "no" in item 3, why were they not checked:
   Details of student injury:
5. Injury to staff (incident report filled out) during intervention: ____Yes    ____No
6. If you answered "yes" in item 5, did the nurse check them: ____Yes    ____No
7. 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

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

 

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

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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:

1. Following the first instance of seclusion or physical restraint during a school year;
2. When any personal injury (including physical, mental, and/or psychological) occurs as part of the use of seclusion or physical restraint;
3. When a reasonable educator would determine a debriefing session is necessary;
4. When suggested by a student’s IEP team;
5. When agreed to by the parents/guardians and school officials; and
6. 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.

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.

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

 

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

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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:

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

 

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:

1. The specificity of the threat for time, location, or individual(s) targeted;
2. The reasonable likelihood of the student’s ability to carry out the threat;
3. 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.

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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)

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:

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

Components provided within a coordinated school health program include:

1. Health services;
2. Nutrition;
3. Healthy, safe environment;
4. Staff wellness;
5. Health education;
6. Physical education and activity;
7. Counseling, psychological, and social services; and
8. 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

1. 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.
       
2. 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.
       
3. 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.
       
4. 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.
       
5. 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.

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

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:

1. Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT): Five doses with at least one dose of DPT received on or after four years of age;
2. Polio: Four doses with at least one dose received on or after four years of age;
3. 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;
4. Hepatitis B: Three doses if the applicant was born on or after July 1, 1994; and
5. 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:

1. Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT): Four doses with at least one dose of DPT received on or after four years of age;
2. Polio: Three doses with at least one dose received on or after four years of age;
3. 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;
4. Hepatitis B: Three doses if the applicant was born on or after July 1, 1994; and
5. 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:

1. Diphtheria/Pertussis/Tetanus (DPT): Three doses with at least one dose of DPT received on or after four years of age;
2. Polio: Four doses with at least one dose received on or after four years of age;
3. 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;
4. Hepatitis B: Three doses if the applicant was born on or after July 1, 1994; and
5. 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:

1. 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:

1. 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;
2. Two doses received for students entering 12^th grade if born on or after September 15, 1999; and
3. 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.

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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.

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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

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE COMMUNICABLE DISEASES CHART

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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

ACTION STEPS

1. Encourage staff or families with students who may have a communicable disease to alert the school;
2. Contact the school nurse if student/staff absentee rate is greater than 10% due to illness;
3. Report rate to building principal and superintendent [or designee];
4. Report rate to Linn County Public Health (319-892-6000);
5. If school cancellation is recommended by Linn County Public Health, consult with building principal and superintendent [or designee];
6. If cancellation should occur, superintendent [or designee] will assist in getting information to the families and public; and
7. 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.

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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)

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

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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

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CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE DISEASE REPORTING CARD

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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:

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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)

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.

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

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

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

Birthday: _________________________ School: ______________________ Date: _____________________

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

1. 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.
2. The prescribed medication is in the original, labeled container as dispensed.
3. 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.
4. 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: ___________________________________________________________________

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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)

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

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

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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:

1. Parent/guardian provides a signed/dated copy of the authorization for student medication self-administration;
2. 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.
3. 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
4. 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.

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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:

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1. 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;
2. 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;
3. I agree to coordinate and work with school personnel and notify them when questions arise or relevant conditions change;
4. I agree to provide safe delivery of medication and equipment to and from school and to pick up remaining medication and equipment;
5. I agree the information shared with school personnel in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and any other applicable laws;
6. I agree to provide the school with back-up medication approved on this form; and
7. I agree that the student will maintain their own self-administration records.

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

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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)

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

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

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

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

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

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• Acetaminophen administered per manufacturer label
• Ibuprofen administered per manufacturer label

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

1. 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.
2. The nonprescription, over-the-counter medication is in the original, labeled container and dispensed per the manufacturing label.
3. All other nonprescription, over-the-counter medication not listed will require a written parent/guardian authorization and supply for the over-the-counter medication.
4. Supplements are not nonprescription, over-the-counter medications approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and are NOT applicable.
5. Nonprescription, over-the-counter medications approved by the FDA that require emergency medical service (EMS) notification after administration are NOT applicable.
6. 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.

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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:

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

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

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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: 
                                                  

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

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:

1. Interpretation or intervention;
2. Administration of health procedures and healthcare; or
3. 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:

1. Physically present;
2. Available at the same site; or
3. 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:

1. Participate as a member of the education team;
2. Provide the health assessment;
3. Plan, implement, and evaluate the written Individual Health Plan (IHP);
4. Plan, implement, and evaluate the special emergency health services;
5. Serve as a liaison and encourage participation and communication with health service agencies and individuals providing health care;
6. Provide health consultation, counseling, and instruction with the eligible student, the student’s parent, and the staff in cooperation and conjunction with the prescriber;
7. 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;
8. Report unusual circumstances to the parent, school administration, and prescriber;
9. Assign and delegate to, instruct, provide technical assistance, and supervise qualified designated personnel; and
10. 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:

1. Written statement by prescriber detailing the specific method and schedule of the special health services, when indicated;
2. Written statement by the student’s parent requesting the provision of the special health services;
3. Written report of the preplanning staffing or meeting of the education team; and
4. 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:

1. 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;
2. Determination that the special health services, tasks, procedures, or function is part of the designated person’s job description;
3. Determination of the assignment and delegation based on the student’s needs and qualifications of school personnel performing the health services;
4. Review of the designated person’s competency; and
5. 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.

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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)

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:

1. Provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote and protect their health;
2. 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;
3. Include enjoyable, developmentally appropriate, culturally relevant, and participatory activities such as cooking demonstrations or lessons and taste-testing;
4. Promote fruits, vegetables, whole-grain products, low-fat and fat-free dairy products, and healthy foods;
5. Emphasize caloric balance between food intake and energy expenditure (promotes physical activity/exercise);
6. Link with school meal programs, cafeteria nutrition promotion activities, other school foods, and nutrition-related community services; and
7. 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:

1. 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;
2. Promote the benefits of a physically active lifestyle and help students develop skills to engage in lifelong healthy habits;
3. Engage students in moderate to vigorous activity during at least 50% of physical education class time;
4. Encourage classroom teachers to provide short physical activity breaks (3-5 minutes), as appropriate;
5. Offer classroom health education that complements physical education by reinforcing the knowledge and self-management skills needed to maintain a physically active lifestyle;
6. Ensure physical activity is not used for or withheld as a punishment;
7. 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
8. 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:

1. Provide parents/guardians a list of foods and beverages that meet nutrition standards for classroom snacks and celebrations;
2. Provide school staff a list of alternative ways to reward students. Foods and beverages will not be used as rewards or withheld for punishment;
3. Develop a plan to promote staff health and wellness;
4. Share information about the nutritional content of meals with parents/guardians and students;
5. Support the consumption of breakfast at school by implementing alternative breakfast options to the extent possible;
6. Permit students to bring and carry water bottles filled with water throughout the day;
7. Make drinking water available where school meals are served during mealtimes;
8. 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;
9. Strive to provide students with at least 10 minutes to eat after sitting down for breakfast and 20 minutes after sitting down for lunch;
10. Discourage students from sharing foods or beverages during meal or snack times, given concerns about allergies and dietary needs; and
11. 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.

1. 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);
2. 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].

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

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FORM

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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: ________________

 

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD REQUEST TO UPDATE STUDENT IDENTITY

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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: ________________________________

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

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.

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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)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FORM

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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

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

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.

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

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:

1. 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
2. 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:

1. Name, age, and address of the suspected abused child;
2. Name and address of parents/guardians or persons legally responsible for care;
3. Description of injuries including evidence of previous injuries;
4. Names, ages, and condition of other children in the home;
5. Child’s whereabouts if different from parents/guardians or persons legally responsible for the child;
6. Any other information considered helpful; and
7. 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).

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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

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

1. 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.
2. 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.

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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)

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

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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: __________________________________________________________

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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: __________________

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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)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PARENTAL AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF EDUCATION RECORDS

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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: ______________________________________________________

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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)

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

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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: ___________________________________

 

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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)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PARENTAL REQUEST FOR  EXAMINATION OF EDUCATION RECORDS

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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: _________

 

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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)

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD NOTIFICATION OF TRANSFER OF EDUCATION RECORDS

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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: __________________________________________________________________

 

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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)

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

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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: ___________________

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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)

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

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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)

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

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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.

-----------------------------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: ____________

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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)

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:

1. 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.
       
2. 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.
    
3. 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.
    
4. 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.

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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)