The Linn-Mar Board of Directors recognizes the right of the public to information concerning all of its actions and policies and details of its educational and business operations. The board encourages study, discussion, and active participation by all concerned in the promotion of the best possible program of education in the community. It is the practice of the board to seek the advice and assistance of all interested individuals and groups in meeting its educational and financial goals.

The Board of Directors may, from time to time, appoint citizen advisory committees to study matters pertaining to the educational issues of the school district.

1. Such committees will deal with specific issues as identified by the Board of Directors;
2. Citizen advisory committees appointed by the board are subject to the open meetings law;
3. The term of the committee will be at the discretion of the board;
4. The sole function of the committee will be to advise the board on matters for which the committee was convened; and
5. Progress on the activities and goals of citizen advisory committees, as defined by the board at the outset, will be reported to the board on a regular basis.

The superintendent [or designee] may convene administrative committees to review or develop recommendations on issues, practices, programs, or initiatives affecting the educational or operational practices of the district.

1. Committee membership and duration of the committee’s service will be determined by the superintendent [or designee];
2. The board will receive updates on administrative committee work at least annually for a standing committee, and periodically for a task-driven committee; and
3. Recommendations made by administrative committees to the board are for advisory purposes only.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for board-appointed citizen advisory committees and administrative committees, as appropriate.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 3/13; 6/15; 7/19; 7/22
Revised: 4/14

Board of Education: Members of the news media are encouraged and welcome to attend open board meetings. The board president will be the spokesperson for the board and the superintendent will be the spokesperson for the district. It is the responsibility of the board president and the superintendent to respond to inquiries from the media about the district. Members of the news media seeking information about the district should direct their inquiries to the superintendent [or designee]. The superintendent [or designee] will accurately and objectively provide the facts and board position in response to inquiries from the news media regarding the district.

Press Releases: The superintendent [or designee] will determine when a press release about district or board matters will be issued and the format in which it is issued. Press releases will be accurate and objective with the purpose of creating or maintaining a positive image for the district. Approval of the press release prior to issue is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee]. Questions about press releases should be directed to the superintendent [or designee].

Press Conference and Interviews: The superintendent [or designee] may hold a press conference or respond to a request for an interview with the media on behalf of the district or board. Press conferences and interviews planned or pre-arranged for district or school activities will include the superintendent [or designee]. It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether a press conference or interview will be held to provide a timely response to either a media request or in response to a district issue.

Live Broadcast or Video of School or District Events: Media or individuals may broadcast or videotape public school or district events, including open board meetings, as long as the process or people do not interfere with or disrupt the school or district event and the broadcast or video does not create an undue burden on adaptation of the building or site to accommodate the request. All copyright requirements and privacy rights must be followed. The superintendent [or designee] will determine whether the individual or media presence will interfere with or disrupt the school or district event.

The media or individual will request permission to photograph, videotape, or broadcast in a specific school or district facility during hours of operation. Media or individual presence in a classroom for the purpose of featuring selected programs or practices may be approved provided that the presence does not disrupt the normal operation of the classroom or service, and the purpose for the broadcast or video is to advance the mission of the district. Requests for photography, video, or broadcasting in school and district facilities should be made to the Executive Director of Communications. Requests may be denied because of insufficient time or reasonableness.

The superintendent is responsible for developing guidelines and procedures for press releases, press conferences, interviews, broadcast and video, and any other requests from media for information about school and district events.

Adopted: 3/00
Reviewed: 4/14; 6/15; 7/19; 7/22
Revised: 1/13
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 21.4; 22; 279.8
IASB Reference: 902.01

The following policy applies to the extent not preempted by federal or state regulatory jurisdiction regarding unmanned aircraft/drones. For purposes of this policy, the term “unmanned aircraft/drones” means aircraft that is operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.

The Linn-Mar Community School District believes in maintaining the safety, security, and privacy of students, employees, and visitors. In keeping with this belief, the use or possession of unmanned aircraft/drones is prohibited on district property or in the space above the property that reasonably can be considered part of district property.

The superintendent [or designee] may make an exception to this policy in specific cases where the circumstances warrant such exception. In such situations and prior to approval, unmanned aircraft/drone operators will:

1. Supply proof of insurance meeting liability limits established by the district;
2. Present appropriate registration and authorization issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA);
3. Sign an agreement holding the district harmless from any claims of harm to individuals or damage to property and
4. Meet additional requirements as determined appropriate by the district.

If the unmanned aircraft/drones are operated as part of the district curriculum, prior to adoption into the curriculum, district employees will work with district administration to ensure the appropriate insurance, registration, and authorizations are in place.

Unmanned aircraft/drones will be operated in accordance with Iowa High School Athletic Association (IHSAA) and Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union (IGHSAU) policies.

Failure to abide by this policy may result in local, state, and federal penalties if applicable.

Adopted: 6/16
Reviewed: 7/19; 7/22
Related Policy: 602.1; 1001.3-E
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; IHSAA Drone Policy
FFA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012
IASB Reference: 906

The board recognizes that students, employees, parents, or citizens may want to distribute hard copy or electronic materials within the school district that are noncurricular. Noncurricular materials to be distributed must be approved by the superintendent [or designee] and follow the guidelines included in Policy 1001.4-R prior to their distribution, including informational or promotional materials for the virtual/digital backpack.

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

Adopted: 9/98
Reviewed: 3/13; 7/19
Revised: 4/14; 6/15; 7/22
Related Policy: 1001.4-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 280.22;
US Const. Amend I
IASB Reference: 903.05

Public records of the school district may be viewed by the public during regular business hours of the administration office of the district. These hours are 7:30 AM and 4:00 PM Monday through Friday, except for holidays (including school holidays).

Persons wishing to view the school district’s public records will contact the communications office and make arrangements for viewing. The communications office will make arrangements for viewing the records as soon as practicable, depending on the nature of the request.

Persons may request copies of public records by telephone or in writing, including electronically. The school district may require pre-payment of the costs prior to copying and mailing.

Persons wanting copies may be assessed a reasonable fee for the copy and for the time needed by the employee to review and collect the requested information. The district will make every effort to provide the public records requested at no cost other than copying costs for a record which takes less than 30 minutes to produce. For requests that take more than 30 minutes to produce, expenses will include the actual cost per hour of the employee’s time.

Costs for legal services utilized for the redaction or review of legally protected confidential information may also be assessed to the individual requesting the records. Printing of materials for the public at the expense of the school district will only occur when the event is sponsored by the school district.

In making a determination for charges for a series of requests from one person or organization within a 30-day period, or a series of requests from persons in a single organization, the charges may be aggregated. For any other materials, cost will be assessed based on the individual request.

Pursuant to Iowa law, the board has determined certain records need to be confidential as their disclosure could jeopardize the safety of persons or property and include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Security and emergency plans and procedures;
2. Emergency preparedness procedures and response protocols;
3. Evacuation procedures;
4. Security codes and passwords, and
5. Information contained in records that if disclosed would significantly increase the vulnerability of critical physical systems or infrastructure.

It is the responsibility of the communications office to respond in a timely manner to requests for viewing and receiving public information of the school district.

Adopted: 3/00
Reviewed: 4/14; 6/15
Revised: 3/13; 7/19; 7/22; 10/22
Related Policy: 505.6; 505.6-R; 505.6-E2-E7
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 21.4; 22.7; 291.6
IASB Reference: 901
Mandatory Policy

The board values the participation and support of school district-community groups including, but not limited to, the Booster Club and Parent-Teacher Organizations (PTOs) which strive for the betterment of the school district and the education program. The board will work closely with these groups.

Prior to any purchase of, or fundraising for the purchase of goods or services for the school district, the group will confer with the superintendent [or designee] to assist the group in purchasing goods or services to meet the school district’s needs.

Funds raised by these groups for the school district shall not be kept as part of the accounts of the school district. However, any school-related fundraising group must have a federal identification number for tax filing purposes.

It is the responsibility of the building principal to be the liaison with the school district-community groups affiliated with building principal's attendance center and the superintendent [or designee].

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 4/14; 6/15; 7/19; 7/22
Revised: 3/13
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8
IASB Reference: 903.01

The board recognizes situations may arise in the operation of the school district which are of concern to parents and other members of the school district community. While constructive criticism is welcomed, the board desires to support its employees and their actions to free them from unnecessary, spiteful, or negative criticism and complaints that do not offer advice for improvement or change.

The board firmly believes concerns should be resolved at the lowest organizational level by those individuals closest to the concern. Whenever a complaint or concern is brought to the attention of the board it will be referred to the administration to be resolved. It will first be the responsibility of the building administrators to resolve questions and problems raised by the employees and/or the students they supervise or by other members of the school district community. Prior to board action, however, the following should be completed:

1. Matters should first be addressed to the employee the individual has a complaint or concern about;
2. Unsettled matters from (a) above or problems and questions about individual attendance centers should be addressed to the employee’s direct supervisor or the building administrator;
3. Unsettled matters from (b) above or problems and questions concerning the school district should be directed to the superintendent; and
4. If a matter cannot be settled satisfactorily by the superintendent, it may then be brought to the board for consideration.

If there is no resolution or a plan for resolution by the superintendent within 10 school days of the individual’s discussion with the superintendent; the individual may ask to have the question or problem placed on the board agenda by submitting a request in writing to the board secretary. Refer to policies 204.7 and 204.9 for additional information on requesting items be placed on the board agenda.

It is within the discretion of the board to address complaints from the members of the school district community, and the board will only consider whether to address complaints if they are in writing, signed, and the complainant has complied with this policy. The board is not obligated to address a complaint and may defer to the decision of the superintendent. If the board elects not to address a complaint, the decision of the superintendent shall be final. If the board elects to address a complaint, its decision shall be final. 

Per State of Iowa House File 868 and Iowa Code 256.9(63), members of the school district community who have concerns about the district or the board may refer to the student handbook for additional guidance from the Iowa Department of Education or directly to the Iowa Department of Education website at: https://educateiowa.gov/pk-12/parent-guardian-and-community-concerns.

Adopted: 5/97
Reviewed: 1/11; 12/11; 4/13; 9/14; 8/17
Revised: 1/06; 9/19; 6/20; 9/21; 7/22
Related Policy: 204.7; 204.9; 502.12
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 279.8
IASB Reference: 213.01

The Linn-Mar Board of Directors encourages the use of community resources and citizens to assist in furthering the educational program of the school system. One of the greatest resources available may be found in the citizens of the community who have special knowledge and particular talents to contribute to the educational program. The board may allow volunteers to serve the schools on a regular basis.

Recruitment, training, utilization, and the maintenance of records for the purposes of insurance coverage and/or recognition of school district volunteers is the responsibility of the Community Services Coordinator [or designee].

Volunteers within the district are held to the same high standards of behavior as school employees and will be subject to background checks prior to interacting with the students in a volunteer capacity. Volunteers, when in contact with students, are required to serve in public areas of the school. It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee] to create  regulations necessary to carry out this policy.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 3/13; 4/14; 6/15; 7/19
Revised: 10/08; 7/22
Related Policy: 1003.4-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): § 279.8; 670
IASB Reference: 903.02
Mandatory Policy

The board welcomes the interest of parents and other members of the school district community and invites them to visit the school buildings and sites. Visitors, which includes persons other than employees or students, must check in at the school/building office upon arrival. Visitors will be issued a visitor’s badge that must be visible at all times.

Persons who wish to visit a classroom while school is in session will request approval from the building principal [or designee] prior to the visit so appropriate arrangements can be made and so class disruption can be minimized. Teachers and other employees will not take time from their duties to discuss matters with visitors. However, should a visitor wish to discuss a topic with teachers or other employees, appointments, phone calls, or emails may be used to answer questions.

Visitors will conduct themselves in a manner fitting to their age level and maturity and with mutual respect and consideration for the rights of others while attending school events. Visitors are required to follow board policies and administrative rules and regulations while on school grounds or attending school events. Visitors failing to conduct themselves accordingly may be asked to leave the premises.

It is the responsibility of employees to report inappropriate conduct. It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee] and building principals to take the action necessary to cease inappropriate conduct. If the superintendent [or designee] and/or building principals are not available, a school district employee will act to cease the inappropriate conduct. If the visitor continues their inappropriate conduct, the district employee has the authority to request aid from local law enforcement.

Adopted: 11/73
Reviewed: 11/10; 4/14; 6/15; 7/19
Revised: 3/13; 7/22
Related Policy: 1005.3
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 716.7
IASB Reference: 903.03
Mandatory Policy

The Linn-Mar Community School District facilities are owned, maintained, and supported by the public. The Linn-Mar Board of Directors actively seeks to respond to the educational, recreational, and cultural needs of its community through the total resources of the community schools. The use of school facilities as centers for community participation should be encouraged whenever those activities are beneficial to the community at large. However, all school facilities have been primarily erected and maintained for the use of the students of the Linn-Mar Community School District and shall not be used for any other purpose that will conflict with that use.

The facilities of the school district may be made available for use by certain local, social, civic, or service organizations when the use does not conflict with the education program or school-related activities, with due consideration given to the conservation of energy and district expenses. Users of district facilities must comply with all federal, state, and municipal equal opportunity laws, regulations prohibiting discrimination, and school board policies. The board reserves the right to deny use of district facilities to any group. The use of school facilities for religious services is intended only as a temporary rental service. Approval for building use shall be for one year in length maximum, with annual application. Only indoor sports will be provided indoor facility space for practices. Facilities may not be used for private parties, social events, celebrations, or similar exclusive use. Activities in the school facilities shall be supervised by an employee of the district or an adult group representative unless prior arrangements are made with the superintendent [or designee]. Activities may begin as early as 6:00 AM and must end no later than 10:00 PM. It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to allow use of district facilities on Sundays.

Organizations, individuals, and other entities who wish to use school district facilities must apply through the district website. It shall be the responsibility of the chief financial/operating officer [or designee] to determine whether the school district facility requested is available and whether the request for use meets board policy and administrative regulations. It shall be the responsibility of the chief financial/operating officer [or designee] to approve request forms, obtain proof of insurance, and prepare the contract for use of school district property.

The Linn-Mar Booster Club will have the first right of concessions at any non-school sponsored event open to the public.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent [or designee] to develop a fee schedule for the board’s approval and to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Adopted: 4/71
Reviewed: 1/11; 4/14; 6/15; 7/22
Revised: 1/11; 3/13; 7/19
Related Policy: 1004.1-R1; 1004.1-R2; 1004.4
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 8D; 123.46; 276; 278.1(4); 279.8; 297.9-11
IASB Reference: 905.01

DISTRICT-GENERATED RECORDINGS
The district believes in the importance of providing a safe and enriching learning environment possible for its students. The district uses digital recording devices on school property including school transportation vehicles to help protect the safety of district students, employees, and community members; and to safeguard district property which is funded using public resources. Additionally, district-generated recordings of students engaging in the district's educational and extracurricular programs can be essential to engage positively with the school community and promote the value of public education.

In order to balance privacy and safety interests, no recording devices will be utilized on district property where individuals maintain a reasonable expectation of privacy. These areas include but are not limited to the school nurse's office, restrooms, locker rooms, changing areas, lactation spaces, and employee break areas.

Recordings of students have the potential to be considered education records. Any recordings will be maintained and accessed in compliance with the requirements of the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the district's policy on student records.

Recordings will be digitally maintained and stored for an appropriate amount of time to maintain the safety of the educational environment and to safeguard district property, after which they will be destroyed. The superintendent [or designee] will establish any necessary regulations related to the secure storage, maintenance, viewing, and destruction of digital recordings.

NON-DISTRICT GENERATED RECORDINGS
The use of non-district owned recording devices on school property and at school events will be regulated. Students, parents, and community members will not be permitted to take recordings of other students or employees during school hours unless the recording is authorized in advance by building administration. Students and employees found to violate this policy will be subject to disciplinary measures consistent with board policy and applicable student and employee handbooks. This policy will not be construed or enforced in a way that infringes on employee activity otherwise protected by law.

It is important to foster a community spirit and sense of unity within the district. However, the district acknowledges that not every student or staff member feels comfortable or safe being recorded. At district-sponsored extracurricular events and activities, the use of non-district owned recording devices by the public may be monitored by administration if a concern is made known to district administration by a student, employee, or parent. Any individuals determined to be making recordings considered bothersome to students or staff may be asked to stop or destroy their recording and may be asked to leave the event.

Adopted: 9/21
Reviewed: 7/22
Related Policy: 505.6; 1004.2-R
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 20 USC 1232
IASB Reference: 804.06

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

This policy applies at all times, including school sponsored and non-school-sponsored events. This requirement extends to students, employees, and visitors. Persons failing to abide by this policy are required to dispose of the prohibited item(s) or leave the district premises immediately.

Use, purchase, or being in possession of tobacco/nicotine products for those under the age of 21 may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities. Possession, use, or being under the influence of alcohol and/or of a controlled substance may also be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.

It is the responsibility of the administration to enforce this policy.

Adopted: 4/14
Reviewed: 6/15; 7/19; 7/22
Revised: 3/23; 8/24
Related Policy: 403.4; 403.5; 502.3
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 142D; 279.8-9; 297; 20 USC 608
IASB Reference: 905.02

Under circumstances deemed appropriate and acceptable by the Linn-Mar Board of Directors, certain school facilities may be rented and used for private profit. Guiding principles for judging acceptability will be good taste, community welfare, availability of facilities, etc.

School functions will receive priority when scheduling events.

The administrative regulations included in Policy 1004.1, 1004.1-R1, and 1004.1-R2 will apply to the use of school facilities.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 3/13; 4/14; 6/15; 7/22
Revised: 3/00; 7/19
Related Policy: 1004.1; 1004.1-R1-R2

No gratuities will be paid to school personnel by organizations using school facilities.

The cost of service personnel furnished by the school will be assessed to the party or parties engaging the use of the facilities. Such costs will be in line with the district’s normal operating costs and will be administered in keeping with the general policies governing the use of school facilities.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 3/13; 4/14; 6/15; 7/19; 7/22
Related Policy: 1004.1; 1004.1-R1-R2

District equipment will not be loaned outside of the district’s facilities for non-district purposes including any use for private purposes and personal gain. Exceptions based on special circumstances (e.g. partnerships, formal/informal agreements that serve the district, etc.) may be granted by the superintendent [or designee]. Where a cost is involved, the organization using the equipment will pay rent and any replacement costs for district property.

In the event that educational equipment is used by organizations within the schools, appropriate school personnel will operate or supervise the use of such educational equipment. Where a cost is involved, the organization using the equipment will pay rent and any replacement costs for school property.

Only properly trained and authorized employees may use maintenance equipment, vehicles, tools, and the like as this equipment relates to job assignments and responsibilities.

Adopted: 6/70
Reviewed: 3/13; 6/15; 7/22
Revised: 4/14; 7/19
Related Policy: 1004.1; 1004.1-R1; 1004.1-R2

To encourage efficient use of taxpayer dollars, the Linn-Mar Community School District Board of Directors supports the shared use of specialized school equipment between the district and other school districts, municipalities, and other government entities on a seasonal or occasional basis.

Details of such sharing arrangements will be described in 28E agreements between the involved entities and will be reviewed annually.

Adopted: 6/05
Reviewed: 3/13; 4/14; 6/15; 7/19; 7/22
Revised: 10/08
Related Policy: 1004.6

It is the policy of The Linn-Mar Community School District to encourage and participate in evidence-based or empirical research and experimentation opportunities or projects for the development and improvement of day-to-day educational practices, or to contribute to the body of research for the field of education.

RESEARCH PROJECT REQUESTS
Requests for research projects from agencies or individuals outside the district, or from staff members within the district, should be submitted to the superintendent [or designee]. Permission or denial to conduct such studies will be granted by the superintendent [or designee]. In exercising this discretion, the school board encourages the superintendent [or designee] to inquire into and examine the motivations of the researcher performing the study to ensure that the study furthers legitimate educational research. The superintendent [or designee] is therefore authorized to review prior research by the potential researcher and conduct any review of the credentials of said researcher deemed necessary to assist in this determination. An application in writing for research approval is to be made at least 60 days prior to the requested date for initiating the study. Approval granted by the superintendent [or designee] is conditional pending the advice and input of the building principal responsible for the students and/or records proposed to be part of the research. The superintendent [or designee] retains the right to rescind the conditional approval at any time.

The following criteria will be used in considering each request:

1. The privacy and dignity of all individuals (i.e., students, teachers, principals, parents, etc.) must be assured in any study. The research respects the privacy, informed consent, and due process rights of all participants. Procedures for maintaining the confidentiality of all participants are required. The district requires each researcher to obtain appropriate informed consent from all participants. Informing researchers of the ethical and legal requirements for obtaining informed consent of participants in action research is the responsibility of the cooperating college or university.
    
2. Each project must comply with federal and state laws. The study must not be detrimental, either physically or psychologically, to any of the participants. The proposal must contain full disclosure of the treatment to which the participants will be subjected. Approval of parents/guardians of students under the age of 18 and/or of students 18 or older is necessary when required by federal or state law.
    
3. In any research project that originates outside the district, the participation of licensed, classified, administrative employees, and students shall be voluntary. In studies initiated at the district, full staff participation may be necessary and cooperation of all district personnel may be required. Teachers will be encouraged to participate in research and experimentation in the interests of the development and improvement of education. No district professional employee, including district administrators, will conduct educational research studies involving district students or conduct a survey involving district students outside the scope of their employment without the prior consent of the superintendent [or designee]. If a teacher plans to engage in a research project for use in classroom instruction, details will be made known to, and approved by, the building principal. If such a study results in materials which would be useful to other teachers, it is recommended that it be made available for distribution throughout the district.
    
4. Research must have direct application to the educational program or decision-making process of the district. The researcher agrees to provide the district with a copy of the completed research. The district reserves the right to use research findings for programmatic revision/decision-making, as appropriate. The researcher will receive appropriate acknowledgment when their findings are used or cited.
    
5. The research does not interfere with the educational program of the district. A balance will be maintained to assure that individuals are asked to participate in a limited number of studies in any given year. Research must minimize disruption to district, school, and classroom operations.
    
6. All communication with parents/guardians and/or students must have the prior review and approval by the building principal before such communication is initiated.
    
7. All parties conducting research in the district are to assume responsibility for making themselves available to answer questions from district personnel regarding the research proposed and data to be collected.
    

STUDENT SURVEYS CONDUCTED BY THE DISTRICT
General Procedures: From time to time the district may administer surveys to students in the course of developing and evaluating programs and services offered in the schools. The district will comply with applicable laws and regulations concerning the administration of surveys and the use of personal information about students for marketing purposes as outlined in this policy. If prior notice and written parent/guardian consent, or the written consent of emancipated students or students over 18 years of age is absent, then students will not be required to submit to the survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information concerning:

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student's parents/ guardians;
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student's family;
3. Sexual behaviors or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behaviors;
5. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student's parents/guardians; or
8. Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program).

Notice to Parents/Guardians Regarding Surveys: A copy of this policy or a summary of this policy will be included in the student handbook for each building.

Procedures for Inspection of Surveys and Related Materials: Parents/guardians have the right to review any survey, teacher's manual, recording, or other supplementary material which will be used in connection with any survey created by a third party before it is distributed or administered to students.

Parents/guardians may request to inspect surveys or related instructional materials by submitting a request in writing to the superintendent [or designee] within 10 days of receiving notice that a survey is to be administered. The superintendent [or designee] will make arrangements for the parent/guardian to inspect the survey and/or materials within a reasonable time prior to the scheduled date of the survey.

The district does not collect, use, or disseminate personal information about students for marketing or commercial purposes.

The superintendent [or designee] is responsible for ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to ensure that student privacy is protected when surveys are administered or personal information about students is collected, disclosed, or used for marketing purposes. The district will use these procedures to safeguard the confidentiality of student education records under applicable laws.

Students over 18 and/or Emancipated Students: In the case of emancipated students or students over the age of 18 the parent/guardian rights described in this policy transfer to the student.

Adopted: 3/12
Reviewed: 3/13; 4/14; 6/15; 7/19; 7/22

The board expects that students, employees, and visitors will treat each other with respect, engage in responsible behavior, exercise self-discipline, and model fairness, equity, and respect. Individuals violating this policy will be subject to discipline. Students will be disciplined consistent with the student conduct policies. Employees will be disciplined consistent with employee discipline policies and laws. Others will be subject to discipline according to this policy.

Individuals are permitted to attend school-sponsored or school-approved activities or visit school premises only as guests of the school district and, as a condition, they must comply with the school district’s rules and policies. Individuals will not be allowed to interfere with or disrupt the education program or activity. Visitors, like the participants, are expected to display mature, responsible behavior. The failure of individuals to do so is not only disruptive but embarrassing to the students, the school district, and the entire community.

To protect the rights of students to participate in the education program or activities without fear of interference or disruption and to permit the school officials, employees, and activity sponsors and officials to perform their duties without interference or disruption, the following provisions are in effect:

1. Abusive, verbal or physical conduct of individuals directed at students, school officials, employees, officials and activity sponsors of sponsored or approved activities, or at other individuals will not be tolerated.
2. Verbal or physical conduct of individuals that interferes with the performance of students, school officials, employees, officials and activity sponsors of sponsored or approved activities will not be tolerated.
3. The use of vulgar, obscene, or demeaning expression directed at students, school officials, employees, officials and activity sponsors of sponsored or approved activities participating in a sponsored or approved activity, or at other individuals will not be tolerated.

If an individual becomes physically or verbally abusive; uses vulgar, obscene, or demeaning expressions; or in any way interrupts an activity, the individual may be removed from the premises by the individual in charge of the event. Law enforcement may be contacted for assistance. The superintendent [or designee] may recommend the exclusion of the individual at future sponsored or approved activities or from school facilities.

If an individual has been notified of exclusion and thereafter tries to enter a school building or facility or attends a sponsored or approved activity, the individual will be advised that their attendance will result in prosecution. The school district may obtain a court order for permanent exclusion from the school building or facility or from future school-sponsored or approved activities. For the purpose of this policy, facility includes all buildings, grounds, and outdoor facilities which are considered district property or on which district business is conducted.

Adopted: 12/99
Reviewed: 3/13; 4/14; 6/15; 7/19; 7/22
Revised: 2/08
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8, .66; 716.7
IASB Reference: 903.04

The board forbids the use of the schools in any manner for the promotion of services or products by businesses or organizations operated for-profit unless authorized by the school board or administration.

No fundraising activity will be permitted if it demands students and staff use their time to assist in promoting a campaign (financial, educational, charitable, or otherwise) unless the activity is in accord with the vision and mission of the district as reviewed by the superintendent [or designee]. 

Guidelines to be followed:

1. The use of students, staff, the district’s name, or district buildings and sites for advertising or promoting products and/or services of entities and organizations operating for-profit will be disallowed. Non-profit entities and organizations may be allowed to use students, staff, the district’s name, or district buildings and sites if the purpose is educationally related and prior approval from the superintendent [or designee] has been obtained.
2. Participation by students in charitable activities is considered to be a desirable part of their total education. However, as a matter of basic policy, the school board authorizes the administration to determine the nature and extent of such activities during school hours.
3. All district fundraising projects will be governed by policy 1005.4-R.

Adopted: 12/96
Reviewed: 4/14; 6/15; 7/19; 7/22
Revised: 3/12; 3/13
Related Policy: 1005.4-R; 1005.4-E1-E2
Code of Iowa: 279.8
IASB Reference: 704.06

PURPOSE
The board understands that corporate and private donors are guided by a philanthropic desire to provide resources that are not only useful but timeless in promoting the educational mission of the district. Further, the board recognizes that the development of alternative sources of funding for the district’s educational programs and facilities is desirable. Opportunities are available to enhance or supplement traditional sources of district revenue through the pursuit of fundraising activities, sponsorships, partnerships, marketing activities, grants, and other similar activities. Naming rights to district facilities and/or portions or components of district facilities may also present opportunities for fundraising and revenue enhancement.

The board also recognizes that individuals within the community may wish to contribute additional funds, books, supplies, or equipment to enhance or extend the district’s programs or facilities. These revenue enhancement opportunities are subject to certain limitations and restrictions as approved by the board, and all such gifts and revenue enhancement activities must be consistent with the educational mission of the district and contemporary standards of good taste within the Linn-Mar Community School District.

The purpose of this policy is to establish parameters for the acceptance of gifts, donations, partnerships, and grants and for the pursuit of revenue enhancement opportunities which may include naming rights of district facilities and other enhanced programming. These parameters align with state codes which clarify that gifts, bequests, and donations are to be used in accordance with the terms of the gifts, bequests, or donations. Therefore, a gift, bequest, or donation that is not in keeping with the district mission, philosophy, or practice will not be accepted.

GUIDELINES
Gifts to schools and revenue derived from revenue enhancement activities including facility naming rights will be used to:

1. Enhance student education and achievement;
2. Assist in the maintenance of existing academic, activity, and athletic programs and facilities;
3. Assist in the development and funding of new academic, activity, and athletic programs and facilities;
4. Provide scholarships for students participating in academic, activity, or athletic programs who demonstrate merit or financial need; and
5. Provide support through recognition for professional staff to enhance academic, activity, or athletic programs.

The board has the authority to accept such gifts and donations as may be made to the district or any facility within the district. The board reserves the right to decline to accept any gift which does not contribute toward the achievement of the goals of the district or ownership of which would tend to adversely affect the district.

Any gift accepted by the district will become the property of the district, may not be returned without board approval, and is subject to the same controls and regulations as are other properties of the district. The district will be responsible for the maintenance of any gift it accepts, unless otherwise stipulated. In no case will the acceptance of a gift be considered to be an endorsement by the district of a commercial product, service, business enterprise, or an institution of learning.

The district accepts monetary contributions designated for specific purposes and donations of equipment or materials, if acceptable to the district. As instructional equipment becomes more complicated and diverse, it is imperative that attention be given to technical and curricular compatibility. Before supplies, books, equipment, or other items are purchased or donated approval must be obtained from the superintendent or school board.

REVENUE ENHANCEMENT
The district will consider opportunities for revenue enhancement such as sponsorships, partnerships, grants, advertising, and fundraising. Any revenue enhancement opportunity pursued by the district must be consistent with the values and educational mission of the district. The board has the exclusive discretion to determine whether to accept or decline any revenue enhancement opportunity. The factors to be considered by the board include, but are not limited to:

1. The extent to which such revenue enhancement opportunity limits or restrains the district’s discretion or its ability to pursue other opportunities;
2. The duration of the arrangement or agreement and the district’s ability or discretion to terminate the arrangement or agreement;
3. The extent to which the revenue enhancement opportunity imposes any obligation on the district, either presently or in the future, financial or otherwise, and whether the opportunity is subject to conditions acceptable to the district;
4. The extent to which the revenue enhancement opportunity constitutes a conflict of interest or creates the appearance of, or a potential for, a conflict of interest;
5. The extent to which the revenue enhancement opportunity interjects advertising or commercialism in the schools or classrooms; and
6. The context of the relationship of the entity providing the revenue enhancement opportunity to district business operations or patron consumerism.

The superintendent [or designee] may establish an ad hoc committee to investigate, evaluate, and/or consider potential revenue enhancement opportunities, compliance with board policies and state codes, and the potential to advance the learning and engagement of students and report its finding and recommendations to the board.

FACILITY NAMING RIGHTS
The district recognizes that naming rights of buildings and/or portions or components of buildings may present opportunities for revenue enhancement and fundraising. Special requests to name buildings or other facilities in honor of people who have contributed to the betterment of the district’s academic activities or athletic programs, or alumni who have distinguished themselves, will be considered by the board. Such requests should be made to the superintendent [or designee].

The naming of any building, room, or facility in the district must be approved by the board. Where naming rights are to be offered or implemented as a component of a fundraising drive relating to the construction of a new building or facility or the renovation of an existing building or facility, the board authorizes the superintendent to establish a committee to follow the parameters for facility naming rights and the recognition of donations. The board reserves the right to decline any donation that includes the condition of naming rights as unacceptable to the district.

DELEGATION OF RESPONSIBLITY
It is the responsibility of the administration to consult with potential donors and benefactors regarding potential gifts to the district or proposals to enhance revenue and to report these potential gifts and opportunities to the board for approval or rejection. Consultation with potential donors may occur in collaboration with the Linn-Mar School Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization established to support the district.

Adopted: 7/07
Reviewed: 3/13; 6/15; 7/19; 7/22
Revised: 4/14
Related Policy: 1005.5-R

Generally, transporting students for school purposes is done in a vehicle owned by the district and driven by a licensed school bus driver. In case of emergency or special circumstances, students may be transported in private vehicles for school purposes. It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine when this is appropriate.

Individuals transporting students for school purposes in private vehicles must have the permission of the superintendent and meet all applicable requirements set by the district.

Private vehicles will be used only when:

1. The vehicle used to transport the student(s) is in good condition and meets all applicable safety requirements;
2. The driver transporting the student(s) possesses a valid driver’s license;
3. Vehicles used for private transportation must have enough passenger restraints to accommodate the number of passengers being transported;
4. Proof of insurance has been supplied to the superintendent [or designee] and the insurance satisfies the minimum coverage requirements for driving personal vehicles in the state of Iowa; and
5. When the parents of the students to be transported have given written permission to the superintendent [or designee]. 

The school district assumes no responsibility for those students who have not received the approval of the superintendent [or designee] and who ride in private vehicles for school purposes. If transportation is not provided by the school district, or if transportation provided by the school district is declined by the student or parent/guardian, then the responsibility and corresponding liability for transportation for school purposes shall rest solely with the student and parent/guardian.

This policy statement applies to transportation of students for school purposes in addition to transporting students to and from their designated attendance center. The superintendent may develop an administrative process to implement this policy.

Adopted: 6/85
Reviewed: 3/13; 4/14; 6/15; 7/19; 7/22
Revised: 4/16
Related Policy: 1005.6-E
Legal Reference (Code of Iowa): §§ 279.8; 285; 321; 281 IAC 43
IASB Reference: 904.01