600 - EDUCATION PROGRAM

600 - EDUCATION PROGRAM jen@iowaschool… Thu, 02/04/2021 - 09:44

600 - Goals and Objectives of the Education Program

600 - Goals and Objectives of the Education Program

The goals and objectives of the school district will be designed to achieve the philosophy statement of the school district.  A School Improvement Advisory Committee of representatives of the school district community and the school district will be appointed to make recommendations for the goals and objectives of the education program.

Short-term and long-term objectives for the education program willl be established annually by the board.  These objectives will reflect the results of the needs assessment, recommendation of the advisory committee, recommendations from the superintendent, and changes in law.

Annually, the committee will report to the board regarding progress toward the achievement of the goals and objectives of the education program.

 

 

Approved 06/19/2007                            Reviewed 06/19/2007                           Revised 06/19/2007
                                                                               10/15/2012                                         10/15/2012

                                                                                     11/20/2017                                         11/21/2022

                                                                                11/21/2022  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 02/19/2021 - 09:55

601 - General Organization

601 - General Organization dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 02/19/2021 - 09:57

601.01 - School Calendar

601.01 - School Calendar

The school calendar will accommodate the education program of the school district.  The school calendar is for a minimum of 1,080 hours and will include, but not be limited to, the days for student instruction, staff development, in-service days and teacher conferences. Each year the minimum school calendar may include up to 5 days or 30 hours of instruction delivered primarily over the internet.

The academic school year for students will be for a minimum of 1,080 hours in the school calendar.  The academic school year for students will begin no sooner than August 23.  Employees may be required to report to work at the school district prior to this date.

Special education students may attend school on a school calendar different from that of the regular education program consistent with their Individualized Education Program.

The board, in its discretion, may excuse graduating seniors from up to 30 hours toward the 1,080 hours of instruction after the school district requirements for graduation have been met.  The board may also excuse graduating seniors from making up days missed due to inclement weather if the student has met the school district's graduation requirements.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the school calendar for recommendation, approval, and adoption by the board annually.

The board may amend the official school calendar when the board considers the change to be in the best interests of the school district's education program.  The board will hold a public hearing on any proposed school calendar prior to adopting the school calendar.

 

Legal Reference:        Iowa Code §§ 20.9; 279.10, 280.3

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.1(7); 41.106.

 

Cross Reference:        501.03 Compulsory Attendance

                                    601.02 School Day

                                    603.02 Special Education

                                    606.10 Early Release for Seniors

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 11/20/2017

Revised:  10/15/2012, 08/18/2014, 07/28/2015, 11/21/2022, 10/16/2023

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 02/19/2021 - 09:58

601.02 - School Day

601.02 - School Day

The student school day for grades one through twelve will consist of a minimum of six hours, not including the lunch period.  The school day consists of the schedule of class instruction and class activities as established and sponsored by the school district.  Time during which students are released from school for parent/teacher conferences may be counted as part of the student's instructional time.  The minimum school day will meet the requirements as established for the operation of accredited schools.

The board may define the number of days kindergarten will be held and the length of each school day for the students attending kindergarten.  The school day will consist of a schedule as recommended by the superintendent and approved by the board.

The school district may also record a day of school with less than the minimum instructional hours if the total hours of instructional time for grades one through twelve in any five consecutive school days equals a minimum of thirty hours, even though any one day of school is less than the minimum instructional hours because of parent-teacher conferences have been scheduled beyond the regular school day.  If the total hours of instructional time for the first four consecutive days equal at least thirty hours because parent-teacher conferences have been scheduled beyond the regular school day, the school district may record zero hours of instructional time on the fifth consecutive school day as a school day.  Schedule revisions and changes in time allotments will be made by the superintendent.

When the school is forced to close due to weather or other emergencies, that part of the day during which school was in session, will constitute a school day and the hours attended will be a part of the 1,080-hour requirement.  The superintendent/building principals will create administrative regulations necessary to utilize any remote learning opportunities that are available and permitted by law during the period of closure.  The provision of special education and accommodations for students who have individualized education programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans during periods of closure will be determined by each respective IEP or Section 504 team.  

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to inform the board annually of the length of the school day.

 

 

Legal Reference:          34 C.F.R. sec. 300

                                    28 C.F.R. pt. 35

                                    Iowa Code § 256.7, 279.8, 10.

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.2(2), .2(3), .2(6).

 

Cross Reference:          601.01 School Calendar

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 10/15/2012, 11/20/2017

Revised:  08/18/2014, 07/20/2020, 11/21/2022

dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 02/19/2021 - 10:00

602 - Curriculum Development

602 - Curriculum Development dawn.gibson.cm… Fri, 02/19/2021 - 10:01

602.1 - Curriculum Development

602.1 - Curriculum Development

 

Curriculum development is an ongoing process in the school district and consists of both research and design.  Research is the studious inquiry and critical investigation of the various content areas for the purpose of revising and improving curriculum and instruction based on relevant information pertaining to the discipline.  This study is conducted both internally (what and how we are currently doing at the local level) and externally (what national standards, professional organizations, recognized experts, current research, etc. tell us relative to the content area).  Design is the deliberate process of planning and selecting the standards and instructional strategies that will improve the learning experiences for all students.  The board delegates the curriculum development process to the superintendent, who will make curriculum development recommendations and submit them to the board for final approval.

A systematic approach to curriculum development (careful research, design, and articulation of the curriculum) serves several purposes:

  • Focuses attention on the content standards of each discipline and ensures the identified learnings are rigorous, challenging, and represent the most important learnings for our students. 
  • Increases the probability that students will acquire the desired knowledge, skills, and dispositions and that our schools will be successful in providing appropriate learning experiences.
  • Facilitates communication and coordination.
  • Improves classroom instruction.

The superintendent and the Director of School Improvement are responsible for the curriculum development process and for determining the most effective method of conducting research and design activities.  A curriculum framework will describe the processes and procedures that will be followed in researching, designing, and articulating each curriculum area.  This framework will, at a minimum, describe the processes and procedures for the following curriculum development activities to:

  • Study the latest thinking, trends, research, and expert advice regarding the content/discipline;
  • Study the current status of the content/discipline (what and how well students are currently learning);
  • Identify content standards, benchmarks, and grade level expectations for the content/discipline;
  • Describe the desired learning behaviors, teaching, and learning environment related to the content/discipline;
  • Identify differences in the desired and present program and develop a plan for addressing the differences;
  • Communicate with internal and external publics regarding the content area;
  • Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum development decisions; 
  • Verify how the standards and benchmarks of the content/discipline support each of the broader student learning goals and provide a K-12 continuum that builds on the prior learning of each level.
  • Ensure proposed curriculum complies with applicable laws.
  • Align annual improvement goals with needs assessment information.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent and the Director of School Improvement to keep the board apprised of necessary curriculum revisions, progress of each content area related to curriculum development activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum development including recommendations to the board.

 

 

Legal Reference:          20 U.S.C. § 1232h.

                                    34 C.F.R. Pt. 98.

                                    Iowa Code §§ 216.9, 256.7, 279.8, 280.3.

                                    281 I.A.C.  12.8(1)(c)(1).

 

Cross Reference:       101      Educational Philosophy of the School District

                                    105      Long-Range Needs Assessment

                                    505      Student Scholastic Achievement

                                    602      Curriculum Development

                                    603      Instructional Curriculum

                                    604.11 Online Courses

                                    605      Instructional Materials

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 10/15/2012, 11/18/2013, 09/15/2014, 11/20/2017, 07/15/2019, 12/19/2022

Revised:  10/15/2012, 11/18/2013, 09/15/2014, 07/15/2019, 12/19/2022

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 10:49

602.1R1 - Curriculum Development Regulation

602.1R1 - Curriculum Development Regulation

School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC)

The School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) is a representative group of district personnel and community members that advises the Board of Education, through the superintendent and the Director of School Improvement, in matters concerning the school program. The SIAC makes professional decisions pertaining to curriculum, instruction, and student learning. The SIAC also serves as a sounding board for certified personnel in curriculum/instruction matters. The SIAC does not make managerial decisions related to buildings, personnel, budgets, or other agenda items reserved for the administrative team, building principals, or site councils.

To meet requirements of Iowa Code section 280.12(2) as amended by 2007 Iowa Acts, Senate File 427, section 2, the board will appoint and charge a school improvement advisory committee to make recommendations to the board.  Based on the committee members’ analysis of the needs assessment data, they will make recommendations to the board about the following components:

            1.      Major educational needs;

            2.      Student learning goals;

            3.      Long-range goals that include, but are not limited to, the state indicators that address reading,                               mathematics, and science achievement; and          

            4.      Harassment or bullying prevention goals, programs, training, and other initiatives. 

The SIAC will consist of members representing the following:  parents, students, teachers, administrators, and community members.  To the extent possible, committee membership will have balanced representation of the following:  race, gender, national origin, and disability.

Meetings

General Procedures:  The SIAC will meet a minimum of four times a year for the purpose of carrying out its functions.  Primary meeting dates will be established and noted on the administrative calendar. Members will be informed no later than September 15th of all regular meeting dates for the coming school year. Notification of all extra meetings will be given at least five days prior to the meeting. Special meetings may be called as needed by the Director of School Improvement, superintendent, or at least five members of the SIAC.

Decision-Making Process:  All decisions will be by consensus of those members present. Consensus principles and guidelines are outlined in Appendix A.

Quorum:  A quorum constitutes a simple majority of the total membership. Meetings will not be conducted unless a quorum is present.

Channels of Communication:  All recommendations of the SIAC will be presented to the Board of Education by the Director of School Improvement. In the event that the Director of School Improvement does not support the recommendations of the SIAC, the superintendent and a designee of the SIAC will present the views of the SIAC to the Board.

Agenda Development and Procedure:  Agenda items for consideration by the SIAC may be proposed by the members, by district personnel, the superintendent or by members of the Board of Education. The items should be submitted to the Director of School Improvement at least ten working days prior to the scheduled meeting of the council. The agenda and notification of the meeting will be distributed to members of the SIAC, one copy per building for posting, and to each member of the Board of Education. Distribution will occur at least three working days prior to the scheduled meeting. The director will determine the priority of agenda items.

Maintaining Meeting Records:  Minutes of all meetings will be recorded and kept on file by the secretary. Minutes will be forwarded to the Director of School Improvement, SIAC members, the superintendent, members of the Board of Education, and to each building for posting.

Amendments

The mission statement, long-range plan, and the policy document are subject to review at the end of each year. If changes, corrections, or updating are determined to be necessary after this analysis, then the SIAC will make the amendments following the standard procedure for decision making.

Personnel

Director of School Improvement:  The position of Director of School Improvement will be a permanent one, and the position will be filled through regular district personnel procedures.

The Chairperson of the SIAC:  The Director of School Improvement serves as chairperson of the SIAC, with the following specific duties:

1.       presides at all regular meetings

2.      prepares agendas for all regular meetings

3.      provides for notification of all meetings

4.      calls all special meetings

5.      assists in conducting inservice activities

6.      oversees selection of SIAC members according to the policy document and provides their training, using current SIAC members as resources

7.      monitors attendance of SIAC members

8.      receives all written resignations from SIAC members

9.      represents the SIAC at all Board of Education meetings and other appropriate public functions, or appoints a SIAC member to do so

10.    assures that all district committees adhere to the goals of the mission statement and the long-range plan

11.    distributes minutes of all meetings to SIAC members, superintendent, Board of Education, and to all buildings for posting.

Secretary:  The Director of School Improvement and superintendent will select an individual who may be a member of the SIAC to serve as secretary.  The duties of the secretary include these provisions:

1.    attends all meetings of the SIAC

2.    takes accurate and thorough notes of proceedings

3.    types and duplicates notifications and minutes of all meetings and provides to Director of School Improvement for distribution.

4.    maintains all SIAC minutes, correspondence, and other pertinent documents.

5.    performs necessary secretarial tasks for the timely completion of SIAC and subject area committee projects

6.   demonstrates a willingness to work closely and cooperatively with the Director of School Improvement and all SIAC members for the success of the curriculum development process

Members of the SIAC

The members of the SIAC will be representative of district personnel and parent/community members. District personnel members of the SIAC will be selected on the basis of interest and experience.

Parent/community members will be selected according to interest and availability.  Principals will be asked for their input on teacher applicants and will periodically be asked to make recommendations.  The Director of School Improvement will work with the superintendent in making the final selections.  The Board of Education must approve all new members.  Member replacement will be made to maintain appropriate representation.   Additional provisions are these:

  1. Terms:  Members will serve for a two-year term and may reapply for subsequent terms.

2.   Resignation:  A SIAC member may resign at any time. A letter of resignation will be written and submitted by the resigning member to the Director of School Improvement at least one regular meeting prior to the effective date of the resignation.  The vacancy will be filled from eligible persons according to the selection procedures.

3.   Composition and Representation:  Member selection should provide for a variety of personal and professional traits, assuring that all grade levels and professional categories are represented. There will be:

primary teachers (PreK-2)                                 1

intermediate teachers (3-6)                               1

junior high teachers (7-8)                                  1

high school teachers (9-12)                              2

classified personnel                                          1

parent/community persons                               3 (1 parent from each building)

high school counselor*                                     1

principals*                                                         4

superintendent*                                                1

Director of School Improvement*                     1

board member**                                               1

students                                                            2                                 

                        Total                                                              19

 

*    These members are on the SIAC by virtue of their positions; they do not apply for membership.

**   The Board of Education selects one of its members to serve on the SIAC.

 

4.   Stipends:  The district SIAC members will each be paid a stipend for attending meetings that exceed or are outside their contract of employment. A district member may also serve as a chairperson or a committee member for a subject area committee, and will receive a stipend for that work according to the same guidelines. In accordance with board policy, administrative personnel may not receive stipends. Stipend amounts will be issued in accordance with the policies of the Board of Education.

5.   Duties of an Individual District SIAC Member:

               a.  attends all regularly scheduled meetings of the SIAC and assigned subject area committee

  b.  maintains a positive communication between SIAC and building faculties, emphasizing teacher   

     ownership of curriculum planning

6.     Duties of the SIAC as a Working Group:

a.   acts as the communication link among the district staff, superintendent, and Board of Education; and promotes and encourages communication among buildings and levels within the district

b.   establishes meeting dates and length of meetings

c.   sets and prioritizes goals for the year

d.   reviews the district mission statement on a yearly basis and makes revisions when appropriate

e.    assures that the district’s mission statement is a working mission statement used in all district decision-making circumstances

f.    develops a long-range plan for curriculum development, implementation, and evaluation - with an annual review of progress and direction

g.   discusses and possibly modifies student progress reports

h.   reviews the latest trends and developments in curriculum and instruction and makes decisions regarding their applicability in the district

 

Appendix A
Consensus Guidelines and Principles

1.     Every person’s opinion is valuable and needs to be heard.

2.     The goal is communication, understanding, and supportive unity.

3.     Each member needs to be open to others’ perspectives.

4.     Questions need to be asked back and forth in order to gain a more accurate understanding of others’ opinions.

5.     One member may block or stop a decision. If a member disagrees, he/she is not to “give in” just to reach  easier agreement or to avoid controversy.

6.     If a disagreement continues in the decision-making process, the following actions or alternatives may be followed:

a.   restate each position, including added thoughts from each side of the disagreement, to bring more information or understanding to consideration

b.   withdraw the problem

c.   postpone the decision

d.   develop a compromise or provisional solution

e.   make the decision on a trial basis

7.     Voting will be used only when consensus cannot be reached and a decision must be made according to an immediate timeframe. In that case, simple majority will rule.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 10:55

602.2 - Curriculum Implementation

602.2 - Curriculum Implementation

Without careful and continuing attention to implementation, planned changes in curriculum and instruction rarely succeed as intended.  How change is put into practice, to a large extent, determines how well it fares.

Implementation refers to what actually happens in practice as compared to what was supposed to happen.  Curriculum implementation includes the provision of organized assistance to staff in order to ensure that the newly developed curriculum and the most powerful instructional strategies are actually delivered at the classroom level.  There are two components of any implementation effort that must be present to guarantee the planned changes in curriculum and instruction succeed as intended:

  • Understanding the conceptual framework of the content/discipline being implemented; and,
  • Organized assistance to understand the theory, observe exemplary demonstrations, have opportunities to practice, and receive coaching and feedback focused on the most powerful instructional strategies to deliver the content at the classroom level.

The superintendent is responsible for curriculum implementation and for determining the most effective way of providing organized assistance and monitoring the level of implementation.  A curriculum framework will describe the processes and procedures that will be followed to assist all staff in developing the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully implement the developed curriculum in each content area.  This framework will, at a minimum, describe the processes and procedures for the following curriculum implementation activities to:

  • Study and identify the best instructional practices and materials to deliver the content;
  • Describe procedures for the purchase of instructional materials and resources.  See Policy 605.1;
  • Identify/develop exemplars that demonstrate the learning behaviors, teaching, and learning environment to deliver the content;
  • Study the current status of instruction in the content area  (how teachers are teaching);
  • Compare the desired and present delivery system, identify differences (gap analysis), and develop a plan for addressing the differences;
  • Organize staff into collaborative study teams to support their learning and implementation efforts (address the gaps);
  • Provide ongoing professional development related to instructional strategies and materials that focuses on theory, demonstration, practice and feedback;
  • Regularly monitor and assess the level of implementation;
  • Communicate with internal and external publics regarding curriculum implementation;
  • Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum implementation decisions.
  • Ensure the curriculum framework complies with applicable laws.
  • Provide professional development to staff to support effective curriculum implementation.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of curriculum implementation activities, progress of each content area related to curriculum implementation activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum implementation including recommendations to the board.

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232h
  
                                    34 C.F.R. pt. 98
  
                                    Iowa Code §§ 216.9, 256.7, 279.8, 74, 280.3
  
                                    281 I.A.C.  12.8

Cross Reference:          101      Educational Philosophy of the School District
  
                                    105      Long-Range Needs Assessment
  
                                    505      Student Scholastic Achievement
  
                                    602      Curriculum Development
  
                                    603      Instructional Curriculum

Approved 11/1/2004                               Reviewed 03/17/2008                                    Revised 11/21/2022
                                                                                10/15/2012
                                                                                11/20/2017

                                                                                11/21/2022 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:07

602.3 - Curriculum Evaluation

602.3 - Curriculum Evaluation

Regular evaluation of the total curriculum is necessary to ensure that the written and delivered curriculum is having the desired effect for students.

Curriculum evaluation refers to an ongoing process of collecting, analyzing, synthesizing, and interpreting information to aid in understanding what students know and can do.  It refers to the full range of information gathered in the School District to evaluate (make judgments about) student learning and program effectiveness in each content area.

Curriculum evaluation must be based on information gathered from a comprehensive assessment system that is designed for accountability and committed to the concept that all students will achieve at high levels, is standards-based, and informs decisions which impact significant and sustainable improvements in teaching and student learning.

The superintendent is responsible for curriculum evaluation and for determining the most effective way of ensuring that assessment activities are integrated into instructional practices as part of school improvement with a particular focus on improving teaching and learning.  A curriculum framework will describe the procedures that will be followed to establish an evaluation process that can efficiently and effectively evaluate the total curriculum.  This framework will, at a minimum, describe the procedures for the following curriculum evaluation activities:

  • Identify specific purposes for assessing student learning;
  • Develop a comprehensive assessment plan;
  • Select/develop assessment tools and scoring procedures that are valid and reliable;
  • Identify procedures for collecting assessment data;
  • Identify procedures for analyzing and interpreting information and drawing conclusions based on the data (including analysis of the performance of various sub-groups of students);
  • Identify procedures for establishing at least three levels of performance (specific to the content standard and the assessment tool when appropriate) to assist in determining whether students have achieved at a satisfactory level (at least two levels describe performance that is proficient or advanced and at least one level describes students who are not yet performing at the proficient level);
  • Identify procedures for using assessment information to determine long-range and annual improvement goals;
  • Identify procedures for using assessment information in making decisions focused on improving teaching and learning (data-based decision making);
  • Provide support to staff in using data to make instructional decisions;
  • Define procedures for regular and clear communication about assessment results to the various internal and external publics (mandatory for communication about students receiving special education services);
  • Define data reporting procedures;
  • Verify that assessment tools are fair for all students and are consistent with all state and federal mandates;
  • Verify that assessment tools measure the curriculum that is written and delivered;
  • Identify procedures for deciding when multiple assessment measures are necessary for making good decisions and drawing appropriate conclusions about student learning;
  • Identify roles and responsibilities of key groups;
  • Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum evaluation;
  • Ensure participation of eligible students receiving special education services in district-wide assessments.
  • Ensure curriculum complies with applicable laws.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of curriculum evaluation activities, the progress of each content area related to curriculum evaluation activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum evaluation including recommendations to the board.

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232h (1994).
  
                                    34 C.F.R. pt. 98 (2002).
  
                                    Iowa Code §§ 216.9, 256.7, 279.8, 280.3-.14 (2003).
  
                                    281 I.A.C.  12.8(1)(c)(1).

Cross Reference:  101      Educational Philosophy of the School District
  
                                    105      Long-Range Needs Assessment
  
                                    505      Student Scholastic Achievement
  
                                    602      Curriculum Development
  
                                    603      Instructional Curriculum

Approved 11/1/2004                             Reviewed 03/17/2008                            Revised                   
                                                                                            10/15/2012
                                                                                            11/20/2017

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:09

602.4 - Pilot - Experimental - Innovative Projects

602.4 - Pilot - Experimental - Innovative Projects

The board welcomes new ideas in curriculum.  Proposals for pilot or experimental projects will first be reviewed and analyzed by the superintendent.  Projects recommended by the superintendent will be considered by the board.  Pilot and experimental projects approved by the board, the Iowa Department of Education, or the U. S. Department of Education may be utilized in the education program.

Students, who may be or are asked to participate in a research or experimental project or program, must have their parents' written consent on file prior to participating in the project or program.  A research or experimental program or project requiring parents' prior written consent is a program or project designed to explore or develop new or unproven teaching methods or techniques.  These programs or projects will be designated as research or experimental projects or programs.  The educational materials of a program or project designated as a research or experimental program or project may be inspected and reviewed by the parents of the students participating or being considered for participation in the program or project.  The inspection and review by the parents will be in accordance with board policy 605.2, "Instructional Materials Inspection."

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

 

 

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232h (1994).
  
                                    34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2002).
  
                                    Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .10; 280.3-.14 (2003).
  
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.5.

Cross Reference:  602      Curriculum Development
  
                                    603      Instructional Curriculum

Approved 11/1/2004                                   Reviewed 03/17/2008                                  Revised 11/21/2022
                                                                                    10/15/2012
                                                                                    11/20/2017

                                                                                          11/21/2022

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:11

603 - Instructional Curriculum

603 - Instructional Curriculum dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:12

603.01 - Basic Instruction Program

603.01 - Basic Instruction Program

 

The basic instruction program will include the courses required for each grade level by the State Department of Education.  The instructional approach will be nonsexist and multicultural.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in kindergarten will be designed to develop healthy emotional and social habits, language arts and communication skills, the capacity to complete individual tasks, character education and the ability to protect and increase physical well-being with attention given to experiences relating to the development of life skills and human growth and development.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades one through six will include English-language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, health, human growth and development, physical education, traffic safety, music, and visual art.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades seven and eight will include English-language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, health, human growth and development, family and consumer, career, technology education, physical education, music, and visual art.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades nine through twelve will include English‑language arts (8 credits), social studies (to include financial literacy) (6 credits), mathematics (6 credits), science (6 credits), physical education (4 credits), real living (1 credit), and electives (23 credits).

The board may, in its discretion, offer additional courses in the instruction program for any grade level.

Each instruction program will be carefully planned for optimal benefit taking into consideration the financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the board or superintendent.  Each instruction program's plan should describe the program, its goals, the effective materials, the activities and the method for student evaluation.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations stating the required courses and optional courses for kindergarten, grades one through six, grades seven and eight, and grades nine through twelve.

 

Legal Reference:          20 U.S.C. § 1232h.

                                    34 C.F.R. Pt. 98.

                                    Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.11; 279.8; 280.3-.14.

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.5.

 

Cross Reference:        103      Equal Educational Opportunity

                                    105      Long-Range Needs Assessment

                                    505      Student Scholastic Achievement

                                    602      Curriculum Development

                                    603      Instructional Curriculum

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 11/19/2012, 12/18/2017, 10/21,2019, 01/17/2023

Revised:  10/21/2019, 01/17/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:13

603.02 - Special Education

603.02 - Special Education

The board recognizes some students have different educational needs than other students.  The board will provide a free appropriate public education program and related services to students identified in need of special education.  The special education services will be provided from birth until the appropriate education is completed, age twenty-one or to maximum age allowable in accordance with the law.  Students requiring special education will attend general education classes, participate in nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities, and receive services in a general education setting to the maximum extent appropriate to the needs of each individual student.  The appropriate education for each student will be written in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Special education students will be required to meet the requirements stated in board policy for graduation.  It will be the responsibility of the superintendent and the area education agency director of special education to provide or make provisions for appropriate special education and related services.

Children from birth through age 2 and children age 3 through age 5 will be provided comprehensive special education services within the public education system.  The school district will work in conjunction with the area education agency to provide services, at the earliest appropriate time, to children with disabilities from birth through age 2.  This will be done to ensure a smooth transition of children entitled to early childhood special education services.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Board of Education v. Rowley, 458 U.S. 176 (1982).
                                   
  Springdale School District #50 v. Grace, 693 F.2d 41 (8th Cir. 1982).
                                   
  Southeast Warren Comm. School District v. Dept. of Public Instruction, 285 N.W.2d 173 (Iowa 1979).
                                   
  20 U.S.C. §§1400 et seq. (1994).
                                   
  34 C.F.R. Pt. 300 et seq. (2002).
                                    
  Iowa Code §§ 256.11(7); 256B; 273.1, .2, .5, .9(2)-(3); 280.8 (2003).
                                  
   281 I.A.C. 41.

Cross Reference:          503       Student Discipline
                                    
  505.06  Graduation Requirements
                                    
  506       Student Records
                                    
  507.02  Administration of Medication to Students
                                    
  507.08  Student Special Health Services
                                    
  601.01  School Calendar
                                      603      Instructional Curriculum

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 11/19/2012, 12/18/2017

Revised:  11/21/2022

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:15

603.03 - Multicultural and Gender Fair/Non-Sexist Education

603.03 - Multicultural and Gender Fair/Non-Sexist Education

Students will have an equal opportunity for a quality education without discrimination, regardless of their race, religion, creed, socioeconomic status, color, sex, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.

The education program is free of discrimination and provides equal opportunity for the students. 

  • Multicultural (MC) approaches to the educational program are defined as those which foster knowledge of, and respect and appreciation for, the historical and contemporary contributions of diverse cultural groups, including race, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, identity, sex, marital status, disability, religion, creed, and socioeconomic background.  The contributions and perspectives of Asian Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, European Americans, and persons with disabilities will also be considered.
  • Gender fair (GF)/Non-Sexist approaches to the educational program are defined as strategies which foster knowledge of, and respect and appreciation for, the historical and contemporary contributions of women and men to society.  The program will reflect the wide variety of roles open to both women and men and which provide equal opportunity to both sexes.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.11 (2003).
  
                            281 I.A.C. 12.5(8).

Cross Reference:  103      Equal Educational Opportunity
  
                            600      Goals and Objectives of the Education Program

Approved:  03/28/2007

Reviewed:  12/18/2017

Revised:  06/18/2007, 08/20/2012, 11/19/2012, 03/17/2014, 11/21/2022

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:20

603.04 - Health Education

603.04 - Health Education

 

Students in grade levels one through twelve will receive, as part of their health education, instruction about personal health; food and nutrition; environmental health; safety and survival skills; consumer health; family life; human growth and development; substance abuse and non-use, including the effects of alcohol, tobacco, drugs and poisons on the human body; human sexuality; self-esteem; stress management; interpersonal relationships; emotional and social health; health resources; prevention and control of disease; and communicable diseases.  The purpose of the health education program is to help each student protect, improve and maintain physical, emotional and social well-being.

The areas stated above will be included in health education and the instruction will be adapted at each grade level to aid understanding by the students.

Parents who object to health education instruction in human growth and development may file a written request that the student be excused from the instruction.  The written request will include a proposed alternate activity or study acceptable to the superintendent.  The superintendent will have the final authority to determine the alternate activity or study.

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 256.11; 279.8; 80; 280.3-.14 (2003).

                                     281 I.A.C. 12.5.

 

Cross Reference:        502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

                                    603      Instructional Curriculum

                                    607      Instructional Services

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 11/19/2012, 12/18/2017, 12/19/2022

Revised:  12/19/2022, 10/16/2023

                                               

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:25

603.04E1 - Human Growth and Development Student Excuse Form

603.04E1 - Human Growth and Development Student Excuse Form

Student Name:  ___________________________________________     Grade:  _____________________

Parent/Guardian:  _________________________________________      Phone #:  ___________________

Please list the curricular objective(s) from which you wish to have your child excused and the class or grade in which each is taught.  An example is provided for you to follow.

                                        Objective                                                                  Class/Grade

Ex.                   To understand the consequences of                                     Health Education/6
                        responsible and irresponsible sexual
                        behavior.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

 

I have reviewed the Human Growth and Development program goals, objectives, and materials and wish my child to be excused from class when these objectives are taught.  I understand my child will incur no penalty but may/shall be required to complete an alternative assignment that relates to the class and is consistent with assignments required of all students in the class.

Signed:  ____________________________________________________________     Date:  ___________________________
                       (Parent or Guardian)

Signed:  ____________________________________________________________     Date:  ___________________________
                       (School Administrator)

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:26

603.05 - Physical Education

603.05 - Physical Education

Students in grades one through twelve will be required to participate in physical education courses unless they are excused by the principal of their attendance center.

Students may be excused from physical education courses if the student presents a written statement from a doctor stating that such activities could be injurious to the health of the student, or the student's parent/guardian has filed a written statement with the school principal that the course conflicts with the student’s religious beliefs.

Students in grades 9-12 may also be excused from physical education courses for the following reasons:

  • Students in grades nine through twelve may be excused by the principal from the physical education requirement in order to enroll in academic courses not otherwise available for the student to fit in his/her schedule.
  • A student may be excused by the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled for up to a semester per year if the parent or guardian of the student requests in writing that the student be excused from the physical education requirement.  The student seeking to be excused from the physical education requirement must be a participant in an organized and supervised athletic program offered by the school which requires at least as much time of participation as 900 minutes or one-eight unit of physical education.
  • The student is participating in the Legislative Page Program at the state capitol for a regular session of the general assembly.
  • The student is enrolled in a junior reserve officer training corp.

Twelfth-grade students may also be excused from physical education courses if the student is enrolled in a cooperative, work-study or other educational program authorized by the school which requires the student's absence from school.

Students who will not participate in physical education must have a written request or statement from their parents.

 

Legal Reference:         Iowa Code § 256.11.

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.5.

 

Cross Reference:        504      Student Activities

                                    603      Instructional Curriculum

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 11/19/2012, 02/19/2018, 09/20/2021, 12/19/2022

Revised:  02/19/2018, 09/20/2021, 12/19/2022

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:30

603.06 - Career Education

603.06 - Career Education

 

Preparing students for careers is one goal of the education program.  Career education will be written into the education program for grades kindergarten through twelve.  This education will include, but not be limited to, awareness of self in relation to others and the needs of society, exploration of employment opportunities, experiences in personal decision-making, and experiences of integrating work values and work skills into their lives.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to assist licensed employees in finding ways to provide career education in the education program.  Special attention should be given to courses of vocational education nature.  The board, in its review of the curriculum, will review the means in which career education is combined with other instructional programs.

 

Legal Reference:         Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A; 280.9 (2003).

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.5(7).

 

Cross Reference:          603      Instructional Curriculum

 

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 11/19/2012, 12/18/2017, 12/19/2022

Revised:  12/19/2022

 

 

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:32

603.07 - Teaching About Religion

603.07 - Teaching About Religion

 

The school district is required to keep the practice of religion out of the school curriculum.  The board recognizes the key role religion has played in the history of the world and authorizes the study of religious history and traditions as part of the curriculum.  Preferential or derogatory treatment of a single religion will not take place.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure the study of religion in the schools in keeping with the following guidelines:

  •      the proposed activity must have a secular purpose;
  •      the primary objective of the activity must not be one that advances or inhibits religion; and
  •      the activity must not foster excessive governmental entanglement with religion.

 

 

Legal Reference:          U.S. Const. amend. I.

                                    Lee v. Weisman. 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992).

                                    Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602 (1971).

                                    Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County, 608 F.Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985).

                                    Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.6 (2003).

 

 

Cross Reference:        603      Instructional Curriculum

                                    604.6   Religious-Based Exclusion from a School Program

                                    606.4   School Ceremonies and Observances

 

Approved:  11/01/2004 

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 11/19/2012, 01/15/2018, 12/19/2022

Revised:  12/19/2022                           

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:33

603.07R1 - Teaching About Religion Regulation - Religious Holidays

603.07R1 - Teaching About Religion Regulation - Religious Holidays

The historical and contemporary significance of religious holidays may be included in the education program provided that the instruction is presented in an unbiased and objective manner.  The selection of holidays to be studied will take into account major celebrations of several world religions, not just those of a single religion.  Holiday-related activities will be educationally sound and sensitive to religious differences and will be selected carefully to avoid the excessive or unproductive use of school time.  Teachers will be especially careful in planning activities that are to take place immediately preceding or on a religious holiday.

Music, art, literature and drama having religious themes (including traditional carols, seasonal songs and classical music) will be permitted if presented in an objective manner without sectarian indoctrination.  The emphasis on religious themes will be only as extensive as necessary for a balanced and comprehensive study or presentation.  Religious content included in student performances will be selected on the basis of its independent educational merit and will seek to give exposure to a variety of religious customs, beliefs and forms of expression.  Holiday programs, parties or performances will not become religious celebrations or be used as a forum for religious worship, such as the devotional reading of sacred writings or the recitations of prayers.

The use of religious symbols (e.g. a cross, menorah, crescent, Star of David, lotus blossom, nativity scene or other symbol that is part of a religious ceremony) will be permitted as a teaching aid, but only when such symbols are used temporarily and objectively to give information about a heritage associated with a particular religion.  The Christmas tree, Santa Claus, Easter eggs, Easter bunnies and Halloween decorations are secular, seasonal symbols and as such can be displayed in a seasonal context.

Expressions of belief or nonbelief initiated by individual students will be permitted in composition, art forms, music, speech and debate.  However, teachers may not require projects or activities which are indoctrinational or force students to contradict their personal religious beliefs or nonbeliefs. 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:35

603.08 - Academic Freedom

603.08 - Academic Freedom

 

The board believes students should have an opportunity to reach their own decisions and beliefs about conflicting points of view.  Academic freedom is the opportunity of licensed employees and students to study, investigate, present, interpret, and discuss facts and ideas relevant to the subject matter of the classroom and appropriate to and in good taste with the maturity and intellectual and emotional capacities of the students.

It will be the responsibility of the teacher to refrain from advocating partisan causes, sectarian religious views, or biased positions in the classroom or through teaching methods.  Teachers are not discouraged from expressing personal opinions as long as students are aware it is a personal opinion and students are allowed to reach their own conclusions independently.

It will be the responsibility of the principal to ensure academic freedom is allowed but not abused in the classroom.

 

Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .6 (2003).

 

Cross Reference:        502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

                                    603      Instructional Curriculum

                                    904.5   Distribution of Materials

 

Approved: 11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 11/19/2012, 01/15/2018, 12/19/2022

Revised:  12/19/2022

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:40

603.8R1 - Teaching Controversial Issues

603.8R1 - Teaching Controversial Issues

A "controversial issue" is a topic of significant academic inquiry about which substantial groups of citizens of this community, this state or this nation hold sincere, conflicting points of view.

It is the belief of the board that controversial issues should be fairly presented in a spirit of honest academic freedom so that students may recognize the validity of other points of view but can also learn to formulate their own opinions based upon dispassionate, objective, unbiased study and discussion of the facts related to the controversy.

It will be the responsibility of the instructor to present full and fair opportunity and means for students to study, consider and discuss all sides of controversial issues including, but not limited to, political philosophies.

It will be the responsibility of the instructor to protect the right of the student to study pertinent controversial issues within the limits of good taste and to allow the student to express personal opinions without jeopardizing the student's relationship with the teacher.

It will be the responsibility of the teacher to refrain from advocating partisan causes, sectarian religious views, or selfish propaganda of any kind through any classroom or school device; however, an instructor will not be prohibited from expressing a personal opinion as long as students are encouraged to reach their own decisions independently.

The board encourages full discussion of controversial issues in a spirit of academic freedom that shows students that they have the right to disagree with the opinions of others but that they also have the responsibility to base the disagreement on facts and to respect the right of others to hold conflicting opinions.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:41

603.09 - Global Education

603.09 - Global Education

Because of our growing interdependence with other nations in the world, global education will be incorporated into the education program for grades kindergarten through twelve so that students have the opportunity to acquire a perspective on world issues, problems, and prospects for an awareness of the relationship between an individual's self-interest and the concerns of people elsewhere in the world. 

 

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 256.11.

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.5(11).

 

 

Cross Reference:         602      Curriculum Development

                                    603      Instructional Curriculum

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 11/19/2012, 01/15/2018, 12/19/2022

Revised:  12/19/2022

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:42

603.10 - Citizenship

603.10 - Citizenship

 

Being a citizen of the United States, of Iowa and of the school district community entitles students to special privileges and protections as well as requiring the students to assume civic, economic and social responsibilities and to participate in their country, state and school district community in a manner that entitles them to keep these rights and privileges.

As part of the education program, students will have an opportunity to learn about their rights, privileges, and responsibilities as citizens of this country, state and school district community.  As part of this learning opportunity students will be instructed in the elements of good citizenship and the role quality citizens play in their country, state and school district community.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 256.11.

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 12.5(3)(b)-(5)(b).

 

Cross Reference:         101      Educational Philosophy of the School District

                                    502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

                                    503      Student Discipline

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  03/17/2008, 11/19/2012, 01/15/2018, 12/19/2022

Revised:  12/19/2022

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:43

603.11 - Summer School Instruction

603.11 - Summer School Instruction

The Independence Community School District recognizes the importance of ongoing learning opportunities for students. As such, the district will offer summer school instruction in accordance with the following:

  • The board, in its discretion, may offer summer school for one or more courses and student activities for students who need additional help and instruction or for enrichment in those areas.  Upon receiving a request for summer school, the board will weigh the benefit to the students and the school district as well as the school district's budget and availability of licensed employees to conduct summer school.
  • If a child who is eligible for special education has been determined to need extended school year services as necessary to receive a free appropriate public education, as determined according to state and federal law, such services will be provided as described in the child’s individualized education program.
  • In additional instances as provided by law.

The superintendent may develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3; 282.6.

                                    281 I.A.C. 41.106.

 

Cross Reference:          410.6   Summer School Licensed Employees

                                    505.3   Student Promotion – Retention – Acceleration

                                    603      Instructional Curriculum

                                    711.7   Summer School Transportation

 

Approved:  10/20/2015

Reviewed:  01/15/2018, 12/19/2022

Revised:  01/15/2018, 12/19/2022

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:45

604 - Alternative Programs

604 - Alternative Programs dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:46

604.01 - Private Instruction

604.01 - Private Instruction

The Independence Community School District recognizes that families with students of compulsory attendance age may select alternative forms of education outside the traditional school setting, including private instruction. The applicable legal requirements for private instruction, including, but not limited to those relating to reporting and evaluations for progress, will be followed.

Except as otherwise exempted, in the event a child of compulsory attendance age as defined by law does not attend public school or an accredited nonpublic school, the child must receive private instruction. Private instruction means instruction using a plan and a course of study in a setting other than a public or organized accredited nonpublic school. 

Private instruction can take the form of competent private instruction and independent private instruction. The Iowa Department of Education recognizes three options for delivery of this form of instruction: two options for delivery of competent private instruction and one option for independent private instruction.

Competent private instruction means either private instruction provided on a daily basis for at least one hundred forty-eight days during a school year, to be met by attendance for at least thirty-seven days each school quarter, by or under supervision of a licensed practitioner which results in the student making adequate progress; or private instruction provided by a parent, guardian, or legal custodian.  

Independent private instruction means private instruction that meets the following criteria: (i) is not accredited, (ii) enrolls not more than four unrelated students, (iii) does not charge tuition, fees, or other remuneration for instruction, (iv) provides private or religious-based instruction as its primary purpose, (v) provides enrolled students with instruction in mathematics, reading and language arts, science, and social studies, (vi) provides, upon written request from the superintendent of the school district in which the independent private instruction is provided, or from the director of the department of education, a report identifying the primary instructor, location, name of the authority responsible for the independent private instruction, and the names of the students enrolled, (vii) is not a nonpublic school and does not provide competent private instruction as defined herein, and (viii) is exempt from all state statutes and administrative rules applicable to a school, a school board, or a school district, except as otherwise provided by law.

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

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 299, 299A.

                                    281 I.A.C. 31.

 

Cross Reference:        501      Student Attendance

                                    502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

                                    504      Student Activities

                                    507.1   Student Health and Immunization Certificates

                                    604.9   Dual Enrollment

 

Approved: 07/28/2015

Reviewed: 02/19/2018

Revised:  09/20/2021, 12/19/2022

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:47

604.02 - Individualized Instruction

604.02 - Individualized Instruction

 

The board's primary responsibility in the management of the school district is the operation and delivery of the regular education program.  Generally, students attending the school district will receive the regular education program offered by the district.  Only in exceptional circumstances will the board approve students receiving individualized instruction at the expense of the school district.

Recommendations from the superintendent for individualized instruction will state the need for the instruction, the objectives and goals sought for the instruction, the employee requirements for the instruction, the implementation procedures for the instruction and the evaluation procedures and processes that will be used to assess the value of the instruction.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for individualized instruction.

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 256.11; 279.8, .10, .11; 280.3, .14; 299.1-.6, .11, .15, .24; 299A (2003).

 

Cross Reference:          501.12 Pregnant Students

                                    604.1   Competent Private Instruction

 

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 12/10/2012, 02/19/2018

Revised:  12/19/2022

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:49

604.03 - International Study

604.03 - International Study

 

The board recognizes some students may wish to take courses outside the country.  Generally, students must obtain board approval prior to participating in the international student exchange program if the student wants to receive credit for the program.  If it is a continuing program which has received a favorable evaluation by the administration and the program will be carried out in the future as it has in the past, prior board approval is not required.

The board's approval is not an assumption of liability, but rather an approval of the credits from the program toward graduation requirements.  The students, employees or others traveling with the students will assume all costs and maintain personal and liability insurance protection.  The school district assumes no cost or liability for the participants.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board informed of ongoing programs and to bring new programs to the board's attention.

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code § 279.8 (2003).

 

Cross Reference:          603      Instructional Curriculum

 

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 12/10/2012, 02/19/2018

Revised:  01/17/2023

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:50

604.04 - Program for Talented and Gifted Students

604.04 - Program for Talented and Gifted Students

 

The board recognizes some students require programming beyond the regular education program.  The board will identify students with special abilities and provide education programming.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a talented and gifted program which provides for identifying students, for program evaluation, and for training of employees.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 257.42-.49 (2003).

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.5(12); 59.

 

 

Cross Reference:         505      Student Scholastic Achievement

                                    604.7   Instruction at a Post-Secondary Educational Institution

 

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 12/10/2012, 02/19/2018

Revised:  01/17/2023

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:51

604.05 - Program for At-Risk Students

604.05 - Program for At-Risk Students

The board recognizes some students require additional assistance in order to graduate from the regular education program.  The board will provide a plan to encourage and provide an opportunity for at-risk students to achieve their potential and obtain their high school diploma.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a plan for students at-risk which provides for identifying students, for program evaluation, and for the training of employees.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 257.38-.41; 280.19, .19A (2003).

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.5(13); 33; 61; 65.

 

 

Cross Reference:        505      Student Scholastic Achievement

                                    607.1   Student Guidance and Counseling Program

 

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 12/10/2012, 02/19/2018

Revised:  01/17/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 11:54

604.06 - Religious-Based Exclusion from A School Program

604.06 - Religious-Based Exclusion from A School Program

Parents who wish to have their child excluded from a school program because of religious beliefs must inform the superintendent.  The board authorizes the administration to allow the exclusion if it is not disruptive to the education program and it does not infringe on a compelling state or educational interest.  Further, the exclusion must not interfere with other school district operations.

In notifying the superintendent, the parents will abide by the following:

  •  The notice will be in writing;
  •  The objection will be based on religious beliefs;
  •  The objection will state which activities or studies violate their religious beliefs;
  •  The objection will state why these activities or studies violate their religious beliefs; and
  •  The objection will state a proposed alternate activity or study.

The superintendent will have discretion to make this determination.  The factors the superintendent will consider when a student requests to be excluded from a program or activity because of religious beliefs include, but are not limited to, staff available to supervise a student who wishes to be excluded, space to house the student while the student is excluded, available superintendent-approved alternative course of study or activity while the student is excluded, number of students who wish to be excluded, whether allowing the exclusion places the school in a position of supporting a particular religion, and whether the program or activity is required for promotion to the next grade level or for graduation.

Students who are allowed to be excluded from a program or activity which violates their religious beliefs will be required to do an alternate supervised activity or study.

 

Legal Reference:          U.S. Const. amend. I.

                                    Lee v. Weisman, 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992).

                                    Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602 (1971).

                                    Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County, 608 F.Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985).

                                    Iowa Code §§ 256.11(6); 279.8 (2003).

 

Cross Reference:        603      Instructional Curriculum

                                    606.4   School Ceremonies and Observances

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 12/10/2012, 02/19/2018

Revised:  01/17/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 12:03

604.07 - Instruction at a Post-Secondary Educational Institution

604.07 - Instruction at a Post-Secondary Educational Institution

In accordance with this policy, students in grades nine through twelve may receive academic or career and technical education credits that count toward the graduation requirements set out by the board for courses successfully completed in post-secondary educational institutions.  Students and parents or guardians will be made aware of the post-secondary instructional opportunities as part of the development of each student’s individual career and academic plan as required by law.  The superintendent or designee is responsible for developing the appropriate forms and procedures for implementing this policy and the following post-secondary educational opportunities:   

Concurrent Enrollment

The board may, in its discretion, enter into a contractual agreement with a community college to provide courses for eligible students in grades nine through twelve when comparable courses are not offered by the school district.  Notice of the availability of the concurrent enrollment program will be included in the school district’s registration handbook, and the handbook will identify which courses, if successfully completed, generate post-secondary credit.  Students will not be charged tuition for concurrent enrollment courses and will not be required to reimburse the school district for tuition if they do not successfully complete a course. Students or their parents or guardians may be required to pay a fee consistent with the school district’s established textbook policy and other materials for the concurrent enrollment course to the extent permitted by law.  Students or their parents or guardians may also be required to provide their own transportation to and from concurrent enrollment courses to the extent permitted by law.  However, transportation will be the responsibility of the school district for any contracted course that is used to meet school district accreditation requirements.

Students who successfully complete a concurrent enrollment course, as determined by the postsecondary institution, will receive postsecondary credit in accordance with the institution’s policies and high school credit that will be reflected on their high school transcript.  The superintendent or designee will grant to a student who successfully completes a concurrent enrollment course a unit of high school graduation credit for every unit of high school level instruction successfully completed.  

Post-Secondary Enrollment Option

Ninth and tenth grade students who have been identified by the school district as gifted and talented, and eligible eleventh and twelfth grade students, may utilize the Post-Secondary Enrollment Option (“PSEO”) program.  To qualify, a course must be a nonsectarian, credit-bearing course that leads to a degree, and in the areas of:  mathematics, science, social sciences, humanities, career and technical education.  A course is not eligible for PSEO if a comparable course is offered by the school district.  In addition, courses at a community college with which the district has a concurrent enrollment agreement are not eligible for PSEO.  Students will not be charged for tuition, textbooks, materials, or fees related to a PSEO course with the exception of equipment that becomes the property of the student. 

The school district will reimburse the post-secondary institution for tuition and other expenses for each PSEO course up to $250.  Students who successfully complete a PSEO course, as determined by the postsecondary institution, will receive postsecondary credit and high school credit.  The superintendent or designee will grant to a student who successfully completes a PSEO course a unit of high school graduation credit for every unit of high school level instruction successfully completed.  Students may not enroll on a full-time basis to any post-secondary institution through the PSEO program.

Transportation to and from the postsecondary institution is the responsibility of the student or parent or legal guardian of the student enrolled in a PSEO course.  Eligible students may take up to seven hours of post-secondary credit during the summer months and receive high school credit upon successful completion of a post-secondary course.  However, the student or student’s parent or legal guardian are responsible for all costs associated with courses taken during the summer.   

Students who fail a PSEO course and fail to receive credit are required to reimburse the school district for all costs directly related to the course up to the $250.00 reimbursement maximum.  Prior to registering, students under the age of eighteen are required to have a parent or guardian sign a form indicating that the parent is responsible for the costs of the course should the student fail the course and fail to receive credit.  Reimbursement waivers may be granted by the board if sufficient verification is provided to show that the student was unable to complete the course for reasons outside the student’s control, including but not limited to physical incapacity, a death in the student’s immediate family, or a move out of the school district.   

 

 

Legal References:         Iowa Code §§ 256.7; 11; 258; 261E; 279.61, 280.3, 280.14

                                    281 I.A.C. 12 and 22

 

Cross References:      505      Student Scholastic Achievement

                                    604.4   Program for Talented and Gifted Students

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 12/10/2012, 03/19/2018

Revised:  02/18/2019, 01/17/2023, 06/19/2023

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 12:05

604.08 - Concurrent Enrollment Textbook Fee

604.08 - Concurrent Enrollment Textbook Fee

Concurrent enrollment courses may be made available pursuant to contractual agreements between the Independence Community School District and postsecondary education institutions. The concurrent enrollment program promotes rigorous academic or career and technical pursuits by providing opportunities for high school students to earn postsecondary credit.  Students in grades 9-12 who meet the eligibility standards set by law may enroll in concurrent enrollment courses.  Tuition for concurrent enrollment courses, as cited in the yearly contractual agreement between ICSD and postsecondary institutions, is paid for by the Independence Community School District. 

Students will not be required to purchase textbooks for concurrent courses that are listed for fall and spring semesters in the Joint Education Service Agreements between ICSD and postsecondary institutions. Textbooks (including digital, digital access, and hard copy) will be provided by the District and will remain the property of the District. Students may be charged for lost or damaged textbooks, consistent with established procedures for all textbooks.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code § 301.1      

                                     Iowa Code Chapter 261E

                                     281 Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 18

                                     281 Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 22

 

 

Approved:  03/19/2018

Reviewed:

Revised: 02/18/2019, 01/17/2023, 08/21/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 12:07

604.09 - Dual Enrollment

604.09 - Dual Enrollment

The parent, guardian, or custodian of a student receiving competent private instruction may also enroll the student in the school district in accordance with state law and policy.  The student will be considered under dual enrollment.  The parent, guardian, or custodian requesting dual enrollment for the student should notify the superintendent’s secretary no later than September 15 of the school year in which dual enrollment is sought on forms provided by the school district.  On the form, they will indicate the extracurricular and academic activities in which the student is interested in participating.  The forms are available at the central administration office.

A dual enrollment student is eligible to participate in the school district's extracurricular and academic activities in the same manner as other students enrolled in the school district.  The policies and administrative rules of the school district will apply to the dual enrollment students in the same manner as the other students enrolled in the school district.  These policies and administrative rules will include, but not be limited to, athletic eligibility requirements, activity standards, academic eligibility requirements, and payment of applicable fees.

A dual enrollment student whose parent, guardian, or custodian has chosen standardized testing as the form of the student's annual assessment will not be responsible for the cost of the test or the administration of the test.

The school district will notify the dual enrollment student of the extracurricular and academic activities in which the student wishes to participate.

The applicable legal requirements for dual enrollment including, but not limited to those related to reporting and eligibility, will be followed.  It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 279.8, 299A (2003).

                                    281 I.A.C. 31.

 

Cross Reference:          502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

                                    503      Student Discipline

                                    504      Student Activities

                                    507      Student Health and Well-Being

                                    604.1   Competent Private Instruction

                                    604.10 Home School Assistance Program

 

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 07/28/2015, 03/19/2018, 01/17/2023

Revised:  12/10/2012, 11/15/2021

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 12:09

604.10 - Foreign Students

604.10 - Foreign Students

 

Foreign students must meet all district entrance requirements including age, place of residence and immunization.  The superintendent reserves the right to limit the number of foreign students accepted.  Students who are citizens of a foreign country will be considered residents if they meet the following requirements:

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

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code § 279.8 (2003).

 

Cross Reference:          501      Student Attendance

                                    507.1   Student Health and Immunization Certificates

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 12/10/2012, 03/19/2018, 01/17/2023

Revised:  03/19/2018

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 12:11

604.11 - Online Courses

604.11 - Online Courses

The board recognizes that online coursework may be a good alternative for students to not only meet graduation requirements but, also have the opportunity to take advanced or other courses not offered by the school district.

High school students may earn a maximum of 3 credits to be applied toward graduation requirements by completing online courses offered through agencies approved by the board and Iowa Department of Education, such as Iowa Learning Online (ILO).  Credit from an online course may be earned only in the following circumstances:

  • The course is not offered at the high school;  
  • Although the course is offered at the high school, the student will not be able to take it due to an unavoidable scheduling conflict that would keep the student from meeting graduation requirements;
  • The course will serve as a supplement to extend homebound instruction;
  • The student has been given a long-term suspension from the regular school setting, but educational services are to be continued; or,
  • The principal, with agreement from the student's teachers and parents, determines the student requires a differentiated or accelerated learning environment.

Students applying for permission to take an online course will complete prerequisites and provide teacher/counselor recommendations to confirm the student possesses the maturity level needed to function effectively in the online learning environment.  In addition, the express approval of the principal will be obtained before a student enrolls in an online course. The school must receive an official record of the student’s final percentage score and suggested grade before credit toward graduation will be recognized.

Provided online courses are part of the student’s regular school day coursework and within budgetary parameters, the tuition costs for online courses will be borne by the school district during the fall and spring semesters, but may be passed on to the parent/guardian during the summer semester.  Any additional costs, such as textbook rentals or school supplies, will be borne by the parents for students enrolled full-time.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations to implement this policy.

 

Legal Reference:           Iowa Code § 256.9(56); 279.8

                                    281 I.A.C. 15

 

Cross Reference:          605.6   Internet Appropriate Use

                                    501.6   Student Transfers In

 

Approved:  03/18/2019

Reviewed:  01/17/2023

Revised:  01/17/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 12:12

604.12 - Appropriate Use of Online Learning Platforms

604.12 - Appropriate Use of Online Learning Platforms

It is important to embrace technology that can foster a creative, interactive learning environment for students, and facilitate employee professional development and collaboration.  The use of online platforms to host remote interaction between students and employees and to facilitate learning is encouraged in the district. 

While student and employee instruction and communication using virtual and online platforms provides a wide array of learning opportunities, it is imperative that employees and students recognize that the use of such platforms is a privilege.  Training related to the use of online learning platforms will be provided to employees and students. 

The district will carefully safeguard the right of students and employees to learn and teach in a respectful environment regardless of the method. All instruction and communication through online learning platforms should be appropriate to the age and ability of the participants.  Students and employees should be aware that online platforms may be monitored by the district.  Verbal and written communication occurring on these platforms may be recorded and stored by the district in accordance with applicable laws.   

Any verbal or written communication on these platforms deemed to be inappropriate will subject the student and/or employee to the same disciplinary measures that would exist if the interaction took place through traditional in-person learning. Students and employees who have concerns about the proper use of these platforms are encouraged to speak with their teachers or building principal. The superintendent will make administrative regulations necessary to enforce this policy. 

 

Legal Reference:           20 U.S.C. §1232g; 34 C.F.R. Part 99

                                    47 U.S.C. §254

                                    20 U.S.C. §6777

                                    Iowa Code §§ 715C

 

Cross Reference:        104       Anti-Bullying/Anti-Harassment

                                    401.13   Staff Technology Use/Social Networking

                                    506.1     Education Records Access

                                    605.4     Technology in the Classroom

                                    605.6   Internet Appropriate Use

                                    501.6   Student Transfers In

 

Approved:  07/20/2020

Reviewed:  07/20/2020, 01/17/2023

Revised:  01/17/2023

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 12:14

605 - Instructional Materials

605 - Instructional Materials dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 12:15

605.01 - Instructional Materials Selection

605.01 - Instructional Materials Selection

The board has sole discretion to approve instructional materials for the school district.  The board delegates this authority to licensed employees to determine which instructional materials, other than textbooks, will be utilized by and purchased by the school district.  The superintendent will provide licensed employees necessary training to ensure selected instructional materials comply with applicable laws.  All instructional materials are available for review upon request and subject to all applicable laws.

In reviewing current instructional materials for continued use and in selecting additional instructional materials, licensed employees will consider the current and future needs of the school district as well as the changes and the trends in education and society.  It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to report to the board the action taken by licensed employees.

In the case of textbooks, the board will make the final decision after receiving a recommendation from the superintendent.  The criteria stated above for selection of other instructional materials will apply to the selection of textbooks.  The superintendent may develop another means for the selection of textbooks.  Textbooks will be reviewed as needed and at least every five years.

Education materials gifted to the school district must meet the criteria established above.  The gift must be received in compliance with board policy.

 

The superintendent will establish additional criteria to guide the selection of instructional materials through administrative regulation, ensuring alignment with educational goals and compliance with laws.

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 279.74; 280.3, .14; 301

 

Cross Reference:        209.1   Ad Hoc Committees

                                    505      Student Scholastic Achievement

                                    602      Curriculum Development

                                    605      Instructional Materials

 

Approved:  11/01/2004                                                   

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 06/15/2009, 01/21/2013, 03/19/2018, 02/20/2023                                                  

Revised:  06/15/2009, 02/20/2023, 10/16/2023        

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:03

605.01R1 - Selection of Instructional Materials

605.01R1 - Selection of Instructional Materials

I.       Responsibility for Selection of Instructional Materials

         A.    The board is responsible for matters relating to the operation of the District.

         B.    The responsibility for the selection of instructional materials is delegated to the professionally trained and licensed employees of the school system.  

         C.    While selection of materials may involve many people including principals, teachers, teacher-librarians, parents, and community members, the responsibility for coordinating the selection of most instructional materials and making the recommendation for the purchase rests with licensed employees. 

         D.    Responsibility for coordinating the selection of instructional materials for distribution to classes will rest with the licensed employees, principal and superintendent.  

         E.    If the board appoints an ad hoc committee to make recommendations on the selection of instructional materials, the ad hoc committee willl be formed and appointed in compliance with the board policy on Ad Hoc Committees.

                  1.      The superintendent will inform the committee as to their role and responsibility in the process.

                  2.      The following statement will be given to the ad hoc committee members:

                        Bear in mind the principles of the freedom to learn and to read, and base your decision on these broad principles rather than on defense of individual materials.  Freedom of inquiry is vital to education in a democracy.

Study thoroughly all materials referred to you and read available reviews.  The general acceptance of the materials should be checked by consulting standard evaluation aids and local holdings in other schools.

                        Passages or parts should not be pulled out of context.  The values and faults should be weighed against each other and the opinions based on the material as a whole.

Your report, presenting both majority and minority opinions, will be presented by the principal to the complainant at the conclusion of our discussion of the questioned material.

 

II.      Material selected for use in libraries and classrooms shall meet the following guidelines:

         A.    Religion - Material will represent any religions in a factual, unbiased manner.  The primary source material of  religions will be considered appropriate, but material which advocates rather than informs or is designed to sway reader judgment regarding religion will not be included in the school libraries or classrooms.

         B.    Racism - Material will present a diversity of race, custom, culture, and belief as a positive aspect of the nation's heritage and give candid treatment to unresolved intercultural problems, including those which involve prejudice, discrimination, and the undesirable consequences of withholding rights, freedom, or respect of an individual. Required material will comply with all applicable laws.

         C.    Sexism - Material will reflect a sensitivity to the needs, rights, traits and aspirations of individuals without preference or bias. Required material will comply with all applicable laws.

         D.    Age - Material will recognize the diverse contributions of various age groups and portray the continuing contributions of maturing members of society.

         E.    Ideology - Material will present basic primary and factual information on an ideology or philosophy of government which exerts or has exerted a strong force, either favorably or unfavorably, over civilization or society, past or present.  This material will not be selected with the intention to sway reader judgment and will be related to the maturity level of the intended audience.

         F.    Profanity and Sex - Material complies with all applicable laws and is subjected to a test of literary merit and reality by the teacher-librarians and licensed staff who will take into consideration their reading of public and community standards of morality.

         G.   Controversial issues materials will be directed toward maintaining a balanced collection representing various views.

The selection decision should be made on the basis of whether the material presents an accurate representation of society and culture, whether the circumstances depicted are realistically portrayed, or whether the material has literary or social value when the material is viewed as a whole.

These guidelines will not be construed in such a manner as to preclude materials which accurately represent the customs, morals, manners, culture, or society of a different time or a different place.

 

III.    Procedure for Selection

         A.    Material purchased for libraries and classrooms will be recommended for purchase by licensed employees, in consultation with administrative staff, school library staff, or an ad hoc committee as appointed by the board.  The material recommended for purchase will be approved by the appropriate building administrator.

                  1.   The materials selected will support stated objectives and goals of the school district.  Specifically, the goals are:

                           a.      To acquire materials and provide service consistent with the demands of the curriculum;

                           b.      To develop students' skills and resourcefulness in the use of libraries and learning resources;

                           c.      To effectively guide and counsel students in the selection and use of materials and libraries;

                           d.      To foster in students a wide range of significant interests;

                           e.      To provide opportunities for aesthetic experiences and development of an appreciation of the fine           arts;

                           f.       To provide materials to motivate students to examine their own attitudes and behaviors and to                comprehend their own duties and responsibilities as citizens in a pluralistic democracy;

                           g.      To encourage life-long education through the use of the library; and,

                           h.      To work cooperatively and constructively with the instructional and administrative staff in the school.

                  2.      Materials selected will be consistent with stated principles of selection.  These principles are:

                           a.  To select material, within established standards, which will meet the goals and objectives of the school district;

                           b.  To consider the educational characteristics of the community in the selection of materials within a given category;

                           c.      To present the sexual, racial, religious and ethnic groups in the community by:

                                    1.    Portraying people, adults and children, whatever their ethnic, religious or social class identity, as human and recognizable, displaying a familiar range of emotions, both negative and positive.

                                    2.    Placing no constraints on individual aspirations and opportunity.

                                    3.    Giving comprehensive, accurate, and balanced representation to minority groups and        women - in art and science, history and literature, and in all other fields of life and culture.

                                    4.    Providing recognition of minority groups and women by showing them frequently in positions of leadership and authority.

                           d.  To intelligently, quickly, and effectively anticipate and meet needs through awareness of subjects of local, national and international interest and significance; and,

                           e.  To strive for impartiality in the selection process.

                  3.      The materials selected will meet stated selection criteria.  These criteria are:

                           a.  Authority-Author's qualifications - education, experience, and previously published works;

                           b.  Reliability:

                                    1.  Accuracy-meaningful organization and emphasis on content, meets the material's goals and objectives, and presents authoritative and realistic factual material.

                                    2. Current-presentation of content which is consistent with the finding of recent and authoritative research.

                           c.   Treatment of subject-shows an objective reflection for the multi-ethnic character and cultural diversity of society.

                           d.      Language:

                                    1.      Vocabulary:

                                             a.      Does not indicate bias by the use of words which may result in negative value judgments about groups of people;

                                             b.      Does not use "man" or similar limiting word usage in generalization or ambiguities which may cause others to feel excluded or dehumanized.

                                    2.      Compatible to the reading level of the student for whom it is intended.

                           e.      Format:

                                    1.      Book

                                             a.      Adequate and accurate index;

                                             b.      Paper of good quality and color;

                                             c.      Print adequate and well spaced;

                                             d.       Adequate margins;

                                             e.      Firmly bound; and,

                                             f.       Cost.

                                    2.      Nonbook

                                             a.      Flexibility, adaptability;

                                             b.      Curricular orientation of significant interest to students;

                                             c.      Appropriate for audience;

                                             d.      Accurate authoritative presentation;

                                             e.      Good production qualities (fidelity, aesthetically adequate);

                                             f.       Durability; and,

                                             g.      Cost.

                                    3.      Illustrations of book and nonbook materials should:

                                             a.      Depict instances of fully integrated grouping and settings to indicate equal status and nonsegregated social relationships;

                                             b.      Make clearly apparent the identity of minorities;

                                             c.      Contain pertinent and effective illustrations.

                                    4.      Flexible to enable the teacher to use parts at a time and not follow a comprehensive instructional program on a rigid frame of reference.

                           f.       Special Features:

                                    1.      Bibliographies.

                                    2.      Glossary.

                                    3.      Current charts, maps, etc.

                                    4.      Visual aids.

                                    5.      Index.

                                    6.      Special activities to stimulate and challenge students.

                                    7.      Provide a variety of learning skills.

                           g.      Potential use:

                                    1.      Will it meet the requirement of reference work?

                                    2.      Will it help students with personal problems and adjustments?

                                    3.      Will it serve as a source of information for teachers and librarians?

                                    4.      Does it offer an understanding of cultures other than the student's own and is it free of racial, religious, age, disability, ethnic, gender identity, and sexual stereotypes?

                                    5.      Will it expand students' sphere of understanding and help them to understand the ideas and beliefs of others?

                                    6.      Will it help students and teachers keep abreast of and understand current events?

                                    7.      Will it foster and develop hobbies and special interests?

                                    8.      Will it help develop aesthetic tastes and appreciation?

                                    9.      Will it serve the needs of students with special needs?

                                   10.      Does it inspire learning?

                                   11.      Is it relevant to the subject?

                                   12.      Will it stimulate a student's interest?

                  4.      Gifts of library or instructional materials may be accepted if the gift meets existing criteria for library and instructional materials.  The acceptance and placement of such gifts will be within the discretion of the board.

                  5.      In order to provide a current, highly usable collection of materials, teacher-librarians will ensure constant and continuing renewal of the collection, not only the addition of up-to-date materials, but by the judicious elimination of materials which no longer meet school district needs or find use.  The process of weeding instructional materials will be done according to established and accepted standards for determining the relevance and value of materials in a given context.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:05

605.02 - Instructional and Library Materials Inspection and Display

605.02 - Instructional and Library Materials Inspection and Display

 

Parents and other members of the school district community may view the instructional and library materials used by the students.  All instructional materials, including teacher's manuals, films, tapes, or other supplementary material which will be used in connection with any survey, analysis, or evaluation as part of any federally funded programs must be available for inspection by parents. 

Instructional and library materials may be viewed on school district premises. 

The district will publish on the district’s website a comprehensive list of all books available to students in libraries operated by the school district.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding the inspection of instructional materials.

 

 

Legal Reference:         Goals 2000:  Educate America Act, Pub. L. No. 103-227, 108 Stat. 125 (1994).

                                    Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14; 301 (2003).

 

 

Cross Reference:        602       Curriculum Development

                                    605       Instructional Materials

                                    901.1    Public Examination of School District Records

 

Approved:  11/01/2004                                                        

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 01/21/2013, 03/19/2018            

Revised:  06/15/2009, 02/20/2023, 09/21/2023

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:10

605.02R1 - Instructional and Library Materials Inspection Guidelines

605.02R1 - Instructional and Library Materials Inspection Guidelines

The Board of Education has established the following guidelines to govern the inspection of instructional and library materials.

Parents and/or other community members who request to inspect materials should:

  1. Contact the building administrator so a time can be arranged to review the material on school property, except in special circumstances as determined by the superintendent.
  1. Review the criteria selection process as outlined in 605.01R1 Selection of Instructional Materials found in the board policy manual.
  1. Receive a copy of standards and benchmarks to review alignment of materials.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:12

605.03 - Objection to Instructional and Library Materials

605.03 - Objection to Instructional and Library Materials

 

Members of the school district community may object to the instructional materials utilized in the school district and ask for their use to be reconsidered.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations for reconsideration of instructional materials.  Information related to the process for reconsideration of instructional and library materials will be made available on the district’s website.

 

 

 

Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14; 301 (2003).

 

Cross Reference:        215       Public Participation in Board Meetings

                                    402.5    Public Complaints About Employees

                                    602       Curriculum Development

                                    605       Instructional Materials

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 01/21/2013

Revised:  06/15/2009, 03/19/2018, 09/21/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:13

605.03E1 - Instructions to the Reconsideration Committee

605.03E1 - Instructions to the Reconsideration Committee

The policy of this school district related to selection of learning materials states that any member of the school district community may formally challenge instructional and library materials used in the district's education program.  This policy allows those persons in the school and the community who are not directly involved in the selection of materials to make their own opinions known.  The task of the reconsideration committee is to make an informed recommendation on the challenge.  The meetings of the committee may be subject to the open meetings law.

The most critical component of the reconsideration process is the establishment and maintenance of the committee's credibility in the community.  For this purpose, the committee is composed of a combination of community members and licensed employees as detailed in 605.03R1.  The community should not, therefore, infer that the committee is biased or is obligated to uphold prior professional decisions. 

The reconsideration process, the task of this committee, is just one part of the selection continuum.  Material is purchased to meet a need.  It is reviewed and examined, if possible, prior to purchase.  It is periodically re-evaluated through updating, discarding, or re-examination.  The committee must be ready to acknowledge that an error in selection may have been made despite this process.  Librarians and school employees regularly read great numbers of reviews in the selection process, and occasional errors are possible.

In reconsidering challenged materials, the role of the committee, and particularly the chairperson, is to produce a climate for meaningful discussion of disparate views.  The committee should begin by finding items of agreement, keeping in mind that the larger the group participating, the greater the amount of information available and, therefore, the greater the number of possible approaches to the problem.

The committee may, at its discretion, hear an oral presentation from the complainant to the committee to expand and elaborate on the complaint.  The committee may listen to the complainant, to those with special knowledge, and any other interested persons.  In these discussions, the committee should be aware of relevant social pressures which are affecting the situation.  Individuals who may try to dominate or impose a decision must not be allowed to do so.  Minority viewpoints expressed by groups or individuals must be heard, and observers must be made to feel welcome.  It is important that the committee create a calm, nonvolatile environment in which to deal with a potentially volatile situation.  To this end, the complainant will be kept informed of the progress of the complaint.

The committee will listen to the views of all interested persons before making recommendations.  In deliberating its recommendation, the committee should remember that the school system must be responsive to the needs, tastes, and opinions of the community it serves.  Therefore, the committee must distinguish between broad community sentiment and attempts to impose personal standards.  The deliberations should concentrate on the appropriateness of the material.  The question to be answered by the committee is, "Is the material appropriate for its designated audience at this time?"

The committee's final recommendation will be (1) to remove the challenged material from the total school environment, (2) to take no removal action, or (3) to agree on a limitation of the educational use of the materials.

The committee chairperson will instruct the secretary to convey the committee's recommendation to the office of the superintendent.  The recommendation should detail the rationale on which it was based.  A letter will be sent to the complainant outlining the outcome.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:16

605.03E2 - Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Request Form

605.03E2 - Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Request Form

Request for re-evaluation of printed or multimedia material to be submitted to the superintendent.

REVIEW INITIATED BY:                                                                                                      DATE:                       

Name:  _________________________________________________________________________________

Address:  _____________________________________________________________________________________

City/State:  __________________________________  Zip/Code:  _____________  Telephone:  ________________

School(s) in which item is used  ___________________________________________________________________

Relationship to school (parent, student, citizen, etc.)  ___________________________________________________

 

BOOK OR OTHER PRINTED MATERIAL IF APPLICABLE:

Author:  ___________________________________  Hardcover: ________  Paperback  ________  Other ________

Title:  ________________________________________________________________________________________

Publisher (if known)  ____________________________________________________________________________

Date of publication  _____________________________________________________________________________

 

MULTIMEDIA MATERIAL IF APPLICABLE:

Title:  ________________________________________________________________________________________

Producer (if known)  ____________________________________________________________________________

Type of material (dvd, software, website, online resources, etc.)    ___________                      

 

PERSON MAKING THE REQUEST  REPRESENTS:  (circle one)

     Self                                                                      Group or Organzation

     Name of group  ____________________________________________________________________________

     Address of group  __________________________________________________________________________

 

1.  What brought the item to your attention?
     _________________________________________________________________________________________
     _________________________________________________________________________________________

2.  To what in the item do you object?  (please be specific; cite pages or frames, etc.)
     _________________________________________________________________________________________
     _________________________________________________________________________________________

3.  In your opinion, what harmful effects upon students might result from use of this item?
     _________________________________________________________________________________________
     _________________________________________________________________________________________

4.  Do you perceive any instructional value in the use of this item?
     _________________________________________________________________________________________
     _________________________________________________________________________________________

5.  Did you review the entire item?  If not, what sections did you review?
     _________________________________________________________________________________________
     _________________________________________________________________________________________

6.  Should the opinion of any additional experts in the field be considered?
                   _____  yes                      _____  no
     If yes, please list specific suggestions:  __________________________________________________________
     _________________________________________________________________________________________

7.  To replace the item, do you recommend other material which you consider to be of equal or superior quality for
     the purpose intended?
     _________________________________________________________________________________________
     _________________________________________________________________________________________

8.  Do you wish to make an oral presentation to the Review Committee?
     _____  Yes  (a)  Please contact the superintendent

                         (b)  Please be prepared at this time to indicate the approximate length of time your presentation will
                                require.  Although this is no guarantee that you will get your requested amount of time.
                                                                                      ________________________  Minutes

     _____  No

 

_____________________________________     _____________________________________________________
Date                                                                                            Signature

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:18

605.03E3 - Sample Letter to Individual Challenging Instructional or Library Materials

605.03E3 - Sample Letter to Individual Challenging Instructional or Library Materials

Dear:

 

We recognize your concern about the use of                                                      in our school district.  The school district has developed procedures for selection of instructional materials but realizes that not everyone will agree with every selection made.

To help you understand the selection process, we are sending copies of the school district's:

        1.       Instructional goals and objectives,

        2.       Instructional and Library Materials Selection policy statement, and

        3.       Procedure for reconsideration of instructional and library materials.

If you are still concerned after you review this material, please complete the Reconsideration Request Form and return it to me.  You may be assured of prompt attention to your request.  If I have not heard from you within one week, we will assume you no longer wish to file a formal complaint.

 

 

Sincerely,

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:33

605.03R1 - Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Regulation

605.03R1 - Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Regulation

 

A.    A member of the school district community may raise an objection to instructional             materials used in the school district's education program. While the individuals                  recommending the selection of such material were duly qualified to make the                   selection and followed the proper procedure and observed the criteria for selecting           such material; the district must be ready to acknowledge that an error in selection             may have been made despite this process.  School employees regularly read great        numbers of reviews in the selection process, and occasional errors are possible.

     1.    The complainant will address the complaint at the lowest organizational level of                     licensed staff.  Often this will be the classroom teacher.

     2.    The school official or employee receiving a complaint regarding instructional or library materials will try to resolve the issue at the lowest organizational level.  The materials generally will remain in use pending the outcome of the reconsideration procedure.

           a.   The school official or employee initially receiving a complaint will explain to the individual the district's selection procedure, criteria to be met by the instructional materials, and qualifications of those persons selecting the material.

           b.   The school official or employee initially receiving a complaint will explain to the individual the role of the objected material in the education program, its intended educational purpose, and additional information regarding its use.  In the alternative, the employee may refer the individual to the teacher-librarian who can identify and explain the use of the material.

           c.    The school official or employee receiving the initial complaint will direct the complainant to complete the Request for Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Form, and notify the building level principal of receipt of the complaint within two school days after the reconsideration form is received.  Schools officials will offer to assist the complainant in completing the form, but if a complainant refuses to complete the form, the complaint will be deemed invalid and no further action taken.

B.    Request for Reconsideration

     1.   A member of the school district community may formally challenge instructional and library materials on the basis of appropriateness used in the school district's education program.  This procedure is for the purpose of considering the opinions of those persons in the school district and the community who are not directly involved in the selection process.

     2.   Each attendance center and the school district's central administrative office will keep on hand and make available Request for Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Forms. 

     3.    The individual will state the specific reason the instructional or library material is being challenged.  The Request for Reconsideration of Instructional and Library Materials Form is signed by the individual and filed with the building-level principal. 

     4.   The building-level principal will promptly file the objection with the Superintendent for re-evaluation.

     5.    The superintendent will convene a reconsideration committee within two weeks of receipt of the Reconsideration Form.

     6.    The committee will make their recommendation to the superintendent within five school days of meeting.

     7.    The superintendent will issue a decision related to the Reconsideration Request Form within 5 school days of receipt of the committee’s recommendation.  A copy of the superintendent’s decision will be provided to the complainant.

     8.   An appeal of the superintendent’s decision may be filed with the board secretary within five days of the superintendent’s decision.  The board will determine whether to hear the appeal at the next regular meeting or within 30 days of the superintendent’s decision, whichever is later.  If the board elects to hear the appeal, the board will act to affirm, modify or reverse the decision of the superintendent.  The board’s decision will be communicated to the complainant. The board’s decision will be deemed final.

     9.   Generally, access to challenged instructional material will not be restricted during the reconsideration process.  However, in unusual circumstances, the instructional material may be removed temporarily by following the provisions of Section B.10.d. of this rule.

     10.  The Reconsideration Committee

           a.   The reconsideration committee is made up of six members.

                   (1) One licensed employee designated annually by the superintendent.

 (2) One teacher-librarian designated annually by the superintendent.

                   (3) One member of the administrative team designated annually by the superintendent.

                   (4) Three members of the community appointed annually by the superintendent.

           b.   The committee will select their chairperson and secretary.

           c.    The committee will meet at the request of the superintendent.

           d.   Special meetings may be called by the board to consider temporary removal of materials in unusual circumstances.  A recommendation for temporary removal will require a two-thirds vote of the board.

           e.   The committee may be subject to applicable open meetings and public records laws.  Notice of the committee meeting is made public through appropriate communication methods as required by law.

           f.    The committee will receive the completed Reconsideration Request Form from the superintendent.

           g.   The committee will determine its agenda for the meeting which may include the following:

                  (1) Distribution of copies of the completed Reconsideration Request Form.

                  (2) An opportunity for the individual or a group spokesperson to talk about or expand on the Reconsideration Request Form.

                  (3) Distribution of reputable, professionally prepared reviews of the challenged instructional material if available.

                  (4) Distribution of copies of the challenged instructional material as available

           h.   The Committee will determine whether interested persons, including the individual filing the challenge, may have the opportunity to share their views.  The committee may request that individuals with special knowledge be present to give information to the committee.

           i.     The committee's final recommendation may be to take no removal action, to                          remove the challenged material from the school environment, or to limit the                          educational use of the challenged material.  The sole criterion for the final                              recommendation is the appropriateness of the material for its intended                                  educational use.  The written final recommendation and its justification are                            forwarded to the superintendent, the complainant and the appropriate                                    attendance centers.

           j.     The individual filing the challenge is kept informed by the Superintendent of the status of the reconsideration request throughout the reconsideration process.  The individual filing the challenge and known interested parties are given appropriate notice of meetings as required by law.

           k.     Following the superintendent’s decision with respect to the committee's recommendation, the individual may appeal the decision to the board for review.

           l.      A recommendation to sustain a challenge will not be interpreted as a judgment of irresponsibility on the part of the individuals involved in the original selection or use of the material.

           m.  Requests to reconsider materials which have previously been reconsidered by the committee must receive approval of two-thirds of the committee members before the materials will again be reconsidered. 

            n.   If necessary or appropriate in the judgment of the committee, the committee may                    consolidate related challenges, or decline to hear multiple challenges to the                            same materials.  Generally, the committee will not hear subsequent challenges                      to the same materials within the same school year.

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:35

605.04 - Technology and Instructional Materials

605.04 - Technology and Instructional Materials

The board supports the use of innovative methods and the use of technology in the delivery of the education program.  The board encourages employees to investigate economical ways to utilize multi-media, computers, electronic devices, and other technologies as a part of the curriculum.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a plan for the use of technology in the curriculum and to evaluate it annually.  The superintendent will report the results of the evaluation and make a recommendation to the board annually regarding the use of technology in the curriculum.

Note: This is a mandatory policy and reflects the educational standards.

 

 

Legal Reference:           Iowa Code § 279.8 (2003).
  
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.5(10), .5(22).

Cross Reference:          217.4   Board of Directors and Area Education Agency
  
                                    602      Curriculum Development
  
                                    605      Instructional Materials

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  04/21/2008, 06/15/2009, 01/21/2013, 04/16/2018, 02/20/2023

Revised:  06/15/2009, 02/20/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:38

605.05 - School Library

605.05 - School Library

The school district will maintain a school library in each building for use by employees and by students during the school day.

Materials for the centers will be acquired consistent with all applicable laws and board policy, "Instructional Materials Selection."  The district shall provide access to all parents and guardians of students enrolled in the district an online catalog of all books available to students in the school libraries.  This access will be displayed on the school district’s website.  Any challenges to library materials will be handled following the process for handling challenges to instructional and library materials as established in board policy. 

It is the responsibility of the principal of the building in which the school library is located to oversee the use of materials in the library.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop procedures for the selection and replacement of both library and instructional materials, for the acceptance of gifts, for the weeding of library and instructional materials, and for the handling of challenges to either library or classroom materials.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 256.7(24); 256.11(9); 279.8, .50; 280.6; .14; 301.

                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(11),(12).

 

Cross Reference:          602     Curriculum Development

                                      605     Instructional Materials

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 01/21/2013, 04/16/2018

Revised:  06/15/2009, 02/20/2023, 09/21/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:39

605.06 - Internet - Appropriate Use

605.06 - Internet - Appropriate Use

The district recognizes the importance of developing students into agile learners who are capable of addressing the complex needs of our future workforce.  For this reason, the district has prioritized making available technology and programs that teach students to embrace modern technology and tools while fostering a secure learning environment for students to the extent reasonable.  Because technology is a vital part of the school district curriculum, the Internet will be made available to employees and students.  Appropriate and equitable use of the Internet will allow employees and students to access resources unavailable through traditional means.

Individual student networks accounts will be assigned and used throughout the district.  Students will also be assigned a valid district-controlled email address.  Students will be able to send and receive email from within and outside of the district.  The email account is provided at no additional cost, but Internet access outside of the district will not be provided.  The purpose of this email account is educational and should be treated as a professional-business account.  If a student already has an electronic mail address, the student may be permitted to use the address to send and receive email at school.  Students must use caution when opening email attachments.  Attachments may contain viruses and other malicious code.

The Internet provides a vast collection of educational resources for students and employees.  It is a global network which makes it impossible to control all available information.  Because information appears, disappears and changes constantly, it is not possible to predict or control what students may locate.  The district makes no guarantees as to the accuracy or appropriateness of information received on the Internet.  Although students will be under teacher supervision while on the network, it is not possible to constantly monitor individual students and what they are accessing on the network.  Some students might encounter information that may not be appropriate or of educational value.  Student Internet records and access records are confidential to the extent possible and are treated like other student records.  Students should have no expectation of privacy related to student Internet records.  Student Internet records and access records are subject to access and examination by District Administration.  Students’ Internet activities will be monitored by the district to ensure, to the extent possible, that students are not accessing inappropriate sites.  The school district will use technology protection measures to protect students from inappropriate access.

The school district will monitor the online activities of students and will educate students about appropriate online behavior, including interacting on social networking sites and chat rooms. Students will also be educated on cyberbullying, including awareness and response. Employees will provide age appropriate training for students who use the Internet. The training provided will be designed to promote the school district’s commitment to:

  • The standards and appropriate use of Internet services as set forth in this policy and regulation;
  • Student safety with regard to:
  • safety on the Internet;
  • appropriate behavior while online, on social networking web sites, and in chat rooms; and
  • cyberbullying awareness and response.
  • Compliance with the E-rate requirements of the Children’s Internet Protection Act                                                                                                                    

Employees and students will be instructed on the appropriate use of the Internet.  Parents will be required to sign a form stating they have read and understand the policies related to Internet use.  Students need to have access to the Internet to complete many assignments and to successfully complete the curriculum goals of the district.  Students will sign a form acknowledging they have read and understand the Internet - Appropriate Use policy and regulations, that they will comply with the policy and regulations and understand there are disciplinary consequences for violation of the policy or regulations.

In compliance with federal law, this policy will be maintained at least five years beyond the termination of funding under the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) or E-rate.

 

 

Legal References:         47 C.F.R 54.520

                                    Iowa Code § 279.8

 

Cross References:       502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

                                    506      Student Records

                                    605.5   Media Centers

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  08/22/2005, 06/15/2009, 09/21/2009, 03/21/2011, 06/18/2012, 04/16/2018, 03/20/2023

Revised:  08/22/2005, 09/21/2009, 03/21/2011, 06/18/2012, 03/20/2023, 03/18/2024

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:41

605.06E1 - Internet Access Permission Letter to Parents and Permission Forms

605.06E1 - Internet Access Permission Letter to Parents and Permission Forms

ELEMENTARY INTERNET ACCESS FORM

I have read the District’s Internet - Appropriate Use policy and regulations.  I understand that the Internet is a world-wide connection of millions of computers and network devices and that the Independence Community School District does not control its content.  I understand that, while the district filters content to prevent access to inappropriate sites, the district cannot guarantee complete protection from inappropriate sites.

I understand that students at the Independence Elementary Schools will access the Internet only under direct adult supervision and only for educational purposes.  I further understand that if my child violates the district’s Internet - Appropriate Use policy and regulations, he/she may be subject to disciplinary action.  Finally, I understand that the district is not responsible for student Internet access outside the school setting.

I have read and understand the district’s Internet Policy.  Once the form is signed, it is considered to be in effect while my child attends any elementary building in this district and for the duration my child is continuously enrolled within the district.  Parents and students may review the district’s policy at any time and may ask for clarification from district personnel.  

Student Name:  _________________________________________________     Grade:  ______________________________

School:  _______________________________________________________     Date:  _______________________________

                                              ______________________________________________________________________________
                                                                                  (Parent or Guardian signature)

 

SECONDARY INTERNET ACCESS FORM

As a user of the Independence Community School District’s computer and Internet resources, I hereby agree to comply with the district’s Internet - Appropriate Use policy and regulations and to use these resources in a reliable fashion while honoring all relevant laws and restrictions.

_______________________________     ___________________________________________________________________
(Date)                                                                                         (Student Signature)

 

As the parent/guardian of the above named student, I have read and understand the district’s Internet - Appropriate Use policy and regulations.  I understand that my child is expected to follow the guidelines in said policy and regulations concerning appropriate use of the school district’s computer network.

I further understand that the Internet is a world-wide connection among millions of computers and that the district does not control its content.  I understand that, while the district filters content to restrict access to inappropriate sites, the district cannot guarantee complete protection from inappropriate sites.  Additionally, I understand that there is a potential for my son/daughter to access information on the Internet that is inappropriate for students and that every reasonable effort will be made on the part of the faculty and staff of the district to restrict access to such information, but that my son/daughter is ultimately responsible for restricting himself/herself from inappropriate information.

I realize that if my child violates the district’s Internet - Appropriate Use policy or regulations, he/she may be subject to disciplinary action.

I expect my son/daughter to use the district’s Internet resources in compliance with the policy and regulations.  I further understand if my son/daughter causes expense to the district by inappropriate Internet use, this cost will be passed to the student and to the undersigned.  Once this form is signed it is considered to be in effect while my child continuously attends grades 7-12.  Parents and students may review the district’s policy at any time and may ask for clarification from district personnel.

Student Name:  _________________________________________________     Grade:  ______________________________

School:  _______________________________________________________     Date:  _______________________________

                                              ______________________________________________________________________________
                                                                                  (Parent or Guardian signature)

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:45

605.06R1 - Internet - Appropriate Use Regulation

605.06R1 - Internet - Appropriate Use Regulation

I.       Responsibility for Internet Appropriate Use.

         A.     The authority for appropriate use of electronic Internet resources is delegated to the licensed employees.  For the purpose of this policy, Internet is defined as:

A collection of interconnected computer networks involving a multitude of computers and users around the world.  It is a collaboration of private, public, educational, governmental and industrial sponsored networks whose operators cooperate to maintain the network infrastructure.

         B.      Instruction in the proper use of the Internet system will be available to licensed employees who will then provide similar instruction to their students.

         C.      Employees are expected to practice appropriate use of the Internet, and violations may result in discipline up to, and including, termination.

II.      Internet Access.

         A.     Access to the Internet is available to teachers and students as a source of information and a vehicle of communication.

         B.      Making Internet access available to students carries with it the potential that some students might encounter information that may not be appropriate for students.  However, on a global network, it is impossible to control all materials.  Because information on the Internet appears, disappears and changes, it is not possible to predict or control what students may locate.

         C.      It is a goal to allow teachers and students access to the rich opportunities on the Internet. 

         D.     The smooth operation of the network relies upon the proper conduct of the end users who must adhere to strict guidelines which require efficient, ethical and legal utilization of network resources.

                   E.   To reduce unnecessary system traffic, users may use electronic conferencing as approved by the supervising teacher.

          F.     Transmission of material, information or software in violation of any board policy or regulation is    prohibited.

         G.     To avoid spreading computer viruses, system users will not disable virus checks on downloaded files.

         H.     The school district makes no guarantees as to the accuracy of information received on the Internet.

III.    Student Use of Internet.

         A.     Equal Opportunity - The Internet shall be available to all students within the school district under supervision.  

         B.      Online Protocol.

                  1.      The use of the network is a privilege and is considered a necessity for successful education.  As a user of the Internet, students may be allowed access to other networks.  Each network may have its own set of policies and procedures.  It is the user's responsibility to abide by the policies and procedures of these other networks.

                  2.      Students should adhere to online protocol:

                           a.      Respect all copyright and license agreements.

                           b.      Cite all quotes, references and sources.

                           c.      Remain on the system long enough to get needed information, then exit the system.

                           d.      Apply the same privacy, ethical and educational considerations utilized in other forms of communication.

                  3.      Student email accounts should adhere to the following guidelines:

                           a.      Keep in mind that e-mail is not confidential and may be read or accessed by third parties.  

                           b.      Inappropriate messages should not be sent.

                           c.      Delete unwanted messages immediately.

                           d.      Use of objectionable language is prohibited.

                           e.      Always sign messages.

         C.      Restricted Material - Students will not intentionally access or download any text file or picture or engage in any conference that includes material which is obscene, libelous, indecent, vulgar, profane or lewd; advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law; constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses others; or presents a clear and present likelihood that, either because of its content or the manner of distribution, it will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities, will cause the commission of unlawful acts or the violation of lawful school regulations.

         D.     Unauthorized Costs - If a student gains access to any service via the Internet which has a cost involved or if a student incurs other types of costs, the student accessing such a service will be responsible for those costs.

         E.      If a student is engaged in network activity which causes harm to our district’s network, the district may collect payment from the student to reimburse the district for resulting costs.

IV.     Student Violations--Consequences and Notifications.

                  Students who access restricted items on the Internet will be subject to the appropriate action described in board policy or regulations.

The district does not believe it is in the best interest of the student or our curriculum to indefinitely restrict access to the Internet for violation of policies, however access may need to be restricted for a period of time. We recognize the need to have consequences in place for violation of policy.  These consequences need to be age appropriate and may need to change as the Internet evolves.  As part of the consequences, students/parents will need to review the Internet policy and re-sign their understanding of the policies and regulations.  Students who violate the Internet - Appropriate Use policy will be subject to the appropriate action described in the district’s discipline policy or student handbook.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:51

605.07 - Use of Information Resources

605.07 - Use of Information Resources

In order for students to experience a diverse curriculum, the board encourages employees to supplement their regular curricular materials with other resources.  In so doing, the board recognizes that federal law makes it illegal to duplicate copyrighted materials without authorization of the holder of the copyright, except for certain exempt purposes.  Severe penalties may be imposed for plagiarism, unauthorized copying or using of media, including, but not limited to, print, electronic and web-based materials, unless the copying or using conforms to the "fair use" doctrine.  Under the "fair use" doctrine, unauthorized reproduction of copyrighted materials is permissible for such purposes as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship or research providing that all fair use guidelines are met. 

While the school district encourages employees to enrich the learning programs by making proper use of supplementary materials, it is the responsibility of employees to abide by the school district's copying procedures and obey the requirements of the law.  In no circumstances will it be necessary for school district staff to violate copyright requirements in order to perform their duties properly.  The school district will not be responsible for any violations of the copyright law by employees or students.  Violation of the copyright law by employees may result in discipline up to, and including, termination.  Violation of the copyright law by students may result in discipline, up to and including, suspension or expulsion.

Parents or others who wish to record, by any means, school programs or other activities need to realize that even though the school district received permission to perform a copyrighted work does not mean outsiders can copy it and re-play it.  Those who wish to do so should contact the employee in charge of the activity to determine what the process is to ensure the copyright law is followed.  The school district is not responsible for outsiders violating the copyright law or this policy.

Any employee or student who is uncertain as to whether reproducing or using copyrighted material complies with the school district's procedures or is permissible under the law should contact the teacher-librarian who will also assist employees and students in obtaining proper authorization to copy or use protected material when such authorization is required.

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

Note:  This is a mandatory policy.  The policy is based upon federal law.  It is strongly recommended the board seek legal counsel prior to making substantive edits to the policy and sample regulation.

 

 

Legal References:  17 U.S. Code Sec. 101 et al.
  
                              281 I.A.C. 12.3(12).

Cross References:  605.6   Internet Appropriate Use

 

Approved:  11/19/2007

Reviewed:  06/15/2009, 01/21/2013, 04/16/2018, 03/20/2023

Revised:  04/16/2018, 03/20/2023, 09/21/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:54

605.7R1 - Use of Information Resources Regulation

605.7R1 - Use of Information Resources Regulation

Employees and students may make copies of copyrighted materials that fall within the following guidelines. Where there is reason to believe the material to be copied does not fall within these guidelines, prior permission will be obtained from the publisher or producer with the assistance of the librarian or teacher-librarian.  Employees and students who fail to follow this procedure may be held personally liable for copyright infringement and may be subject to discipline by the board.

Under the "fair use" doctrine, unauthorized reproduction of copyrighted materials is permissible for such purposes as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship or research.  Under the fair use doctrine, each of the following four standards must be met in order to use the copyrighted document:

  • Purpose and Character of the Use – The use must be for such purposes as teaching or scholarship.
  • Nature of the Copyrighted Work – The type of work to be copied.
  • Amount and Substantiality of the Portion Used – Copying the whole of a work cannot be considered fair use; copying a small portion may be if these guidelines are followed.
  • Effect of the Use Upon the Potential Market for or value of the Copyrighted Work – If resulting economic loss to the copyright holder can be shown, even making a single copy of certain materials may be an infringement, and making multiple copies presents the danger of greater penalties.

Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Material Reminders:

  • Materials on the Internet should be used with caution since they may, and likely are, copyrighted.
  • Proper attribution (author, title, publisher, place and date of publication) should always be given.
  • Notice should be taken of any alterations to copyrighted works, and such alterations should only be made for specific instructional objectives.
  • Care should be taken in circumventing any technological protection measures.  While materials copied pursuant to fair use may be copied after circumventing technological protections against unauthorized copying, technological protection measures to block access to materials may not be circumvented.

In preparing for instruction, a teacher may make or have made a single copy of:

  • A chapter from a book;
  • An article from a newspaper or periodical;
  • A short story, short essay or short poem; or,
  • A chart, graph, diagram, drawing, cartoon or picture from a book, periodical or newspaper.

A teacher may make multiple copies not exceeding more than one per pupil, for classroom use or discussion, if the copying meets the tests of “brevity, spontaneity and cumulative effect” set by the following guidelines.  Each copy must include a notice of copyright.

  • Brevity
    • A complete poem, if less than 250 words and two pages long, may be copied; excerpts from longer poems cannot exceed 250 words;
    • Complete articles, stories or essays of less than 2500 words or excerpts from prose works less than 1000 words or 10% of the work, whichever is less may be copied; in any event, the minimum is 500 words;
    • Each numerical limit may be expanded to permit the completion of an unfinished line of a poem or prose paragraph;
    • One chart, graph, diagram, drawing, cartoon or picture per book or periodical issue may be copied.  “Special” works cannot be reproduced in full; this includes children's books combining poetry, prose or poetic prose.  Short special works may be copied up to two published pages containing not more than 10 percent of the work.
  • Spontaneity – Should be at the “instance and inspiration” of the individual teacher when there is not a reasonable length of time to request and receive permission to copy.
  • Cumulative Effect – Teachers are limited to using copied material for only one course for which copies are made.  No more than one short poem, article, story or two excerpts from the same author may be copied, and no more than three works can be copied from a collective work or periodical column during one class term. Teachers are limited to nine instances of multiple copying for one course during one class term.  Limitations do not apply to current news periodicals, newspapers and current news sections of other periodicals.

Copying Limitations

Circumstances will arise when employees are uncertain whether or not copying is prohibited.  In those circumstances, the librarian or teacher-librarian should be contacted.  The following prohibitions have been expressly stated in federal guidelines:

  • Reproduction of copyrighted material will not be used to create or substitute for anthologies, compilations or collective works.
  • Unless expressly permitted by agreement with the publisher and authorized by school district action, there will be no copying from copyrighted consumable materials such as workbooks, exercises, test booklets, answer sheets and the like.
  • Employees will not:
  • Use copies to substitute for the purchase of books, periodicals, music recordings, consumable works such as workbooks, computer software or other copyrighted material. Copy or use the same item from term to term without the copyright owner's permission;
  • Copy or use more than nine instances of multiple copying of protected material in any one term;
  • Copy or use more than one short work or two excerpts from works of the same author in any one term;
  • Copy or use protected material without including a notice of copyright.  The following is a satisfactory notice: NOTICE: THIS MATERIAL MAY BE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW.
  • Reproduce or use copyrighted material at the direction of someone in higher authority or copy or use such material in emulation of some other teacher's use of copyrighted material without permission of the copyright owner.
  • Require other employees or students to violate the copyright law or fair use guidelines.

Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Materials in the Library

A library may make a single copy or three digital copies of:

  • An unpublished work in its collection;
  • A published work in order to replace it because it is damaged, deteriorated, lost or stolen, provided that an unused replacement cannot be obtained at a fair price.
  • A work that is being considered for acquisition, although use is strictly limited to that decision.  Technological protection measures may be circumvented for purposes of copying materials in order to make an acquisition decision.

A library may provide a single copy of copyrighted material to a student or employee at no more than the actual cost of photocopying.  The copy must be limited to one article of a periodical issue or a small part of other material, unless the library finds that the copyrighted work cannot be obtained elsewhere at a fair price.  In the latter circumstance, the entire work may be copied.  In any case, the copy will contain the notice of copyright and the student or staff member will be notified that the copy is to be used only for private study, scholarship or research.  Any other use may subject the person to liability for copyright infringement.

Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Music or Dramatic Works

Teachers may:

  • Make a single copy of a song, movement, or short section from a printed musical or dramatic work that is unavailable except in a larger work for purposes of preparing for instruction;   
  • Make multiple copies for classroom use of an excerpt of not more than 10% of a printed musical work if it is to be used for academic purposes other than performance, provided that the excerpt does not comprise a part of the whole musical work which would constitute a performable unit such as a complete section, movement, or song;
  • In an emergency, a teacher may make and use replacement copies of printed music for an imminent musical performance when the purchased copies have been lost, destroyed or are otherwise not available.
  • Make and retain a single recording of student performances of copyrighted material when it is made for purposes of evaluation or rehearsal;
  • Make and retain a single copy of excerpts from recordings of copyrighted musical works for use as aural exercises or examination questions; and,
  • Edit or simplify purchased copies of music or plays provided that the fundamental character of the work is not distorted.  Lyrics will not be altered or added if none exist.

Performance by teachers or students of copyrighted musical or dramatic works is permitted without the authorization of the copyright owner as part of a teaching activity in a classroom or instructional setting.  The purpose shall be instructional rather than for entertainment. 

Performances of nondramatic musical works that are copyrighted are permitted without the authorization of the copyright owner, provided that:

  • The performance is not for a commercial purpose;
  • None of the performers, promoters or organizers are compensated; and,
  • Admission fees are used for educational or charitable purposes only.

All other musical and dramatic performances require permission from the copyright owner.  Parents or others wishing to record a performance should check with the sponsor to ensure compliance with copyright.

Recording of Copyrighted Programs

Television programs, excluding news programs, transmitted by commercial and non-commercial television stations for reception by the general public without charge may be recorded off-air simultaneously with broadcast transmission (including simultaneous cable retransmission) and retained by a school for a period not to exceed the first forty-five (45) consecutive calendar days after date of recording.  Upon conclusion of this retention period, all off-air recordings must be erased or destroyed immediately.  Certain programming such as that provided on public television may be exempt from this provision; check with the teacher librarian or the subscription database, e.g. unitedstreaming.

Off-air recording may be used once by individual teachers in the course of instructional activities, and repeated once only when reinforcement is necessary, within a building, during the first 10 consecutive school days, excluding scheduled interruptions, in the 45 calendar day retention period.  Off-air recordings may be made only at the request of and used by individual teachers, and may not be regularly recorded in anticipation of requests.  No broadcast program may be recorded off-air more than once at the request of the same teacher, regardless of the number of times the program may be broadcast.  A limited number of copies may be reproduced from each off-air recording to meet the legitimate needs of teachers.  Each additional copy will be subject to all provisions governing the original recording.

After the first ten consecutive school days, off-air recordings may be used up to the end of the 45 calendar day retention period only for evaluation purposes, i.e., to determine whether or not to include the broadcast program in the teaching curriculum.  Permission must be secured from the publisher before the recording can be used for instructional purposes after the 10 day period.

Off-air recordings need not be used in their entirety, but the recorded programs may not be altered from their original content.  Off-air recordings may not be physically or electronically combined or merged to constitute teaching anthologies or compilations.  All copies of off-air recordings must include the copyright notice on the broadcast program as recorded.

Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Computer Software

Schools have a valid need for high-quality software at reasonable prices.  To assure a fair return to the authors of software programs, the school district will support the legal and ethical issues involved in copyright laws and any usage agreements that are incorporated into the acquisition of software programs.  To this end, the following guidelines will be in effect: 

  • All copyright laws and publisher license agreements between the vendor and the school district will be observed;
  • Staff members will take reasonable precautions to prevent copying or the use of unauthorized copies on school equipment;
  • A back-up copy will be purchased, for use as a replacement when a program is lost or damaged.  If the vendor is not able to supply a replacement, the school district will make a back-up copy that will be used for replacement purposes only;
  • A copy of the software license agreement will be retained by the technology director, librarian or teacher-librarian; and,
  • A computer program may be adapted by adding to the content or changing the language.  The adapted program may not be distributed.

Fair Use Guidelines for Educational Multimedia

Students may incorporate portions of copyrighted materials in producing educational multimedia projects such as videos, Power Points, podcasts and web sites for a specific course, and may perform, display or retain the projects. 

Educators may perform or display their own multimedia projects to students in support of curriculum-based instructional activities.  These projects may be used:

  • In face-to-face instruction;
  • In demonstrations and presentations, including conferences;
  • In assignments to students;
  • For remote instruction if distribution of the signal is limited;
  • Over a network that cannot prevent duplication for fifteen days, after fifteen days a copy may be saved on-site only; or,
  • In their personal portfolios.

Educators may use copyrighted materials in a multimedia project for two years, after that permission must be requested and received.

The following limitations restrict the portion of any given work that may be used pursuant of fair use in an educational multimedia project:

  • Motion media: ten percent or three minutes, whichever is less;
  • Text materials: ten percent or 1,000 words, whichever is less;
  • Poetry: an entire poem of fewer than 250 words, but no more than three poems from one author or five poems from an anthology.  For poems of greater than 250 words, excerpts of up to 250 words may be used, but no more than three excerpts from one poet or five excerpts from an anthology;
  • Music, lyrics and music video: Up to ten percent, but no more than thirty seconds.  No alterations that change the basic melody or fundamental character of the work;
  • Illustrations, cartoons and photographs: No more that five images by an artist, and no more than ten percent or fifteen images whichever is less from a collective work;
  • Numerical data sets: Up to ten percent or 2,500 field or cell entries, whichever is less;

Fair use does not include posting a student or teacher’s work on the Internet if it includes portions of copyrighted materials.  Permission to copy will be obtained from the original copyright holder(s) before such projects are placed online.  The opening screen of such presentations will include notice that permission was granted and materials are restricted from further use.

The librarian or teacher-librarian is responsible for ensuring that appropriate warning devices are posted.  The warnings are to educate and warn individuals using school district equipment of the copyright law.  Warning notices must be posted:

  • On or near copiers;
  • On forms used to request copying services;
  • On video recorders;
  • On computers; and,
  • At the library and other places where interlibrary loan orders for copies of materials are accepted.

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:56

605.08 - Student Access to Instructional and Library Materials

605.08 - Student Access to Instructional and Library Materials

Parents or guardians of students enrolled in the district have the ability to request that their student not be able to access certain instructional materials or check out certain library materials. For purposes of prohibiting access to instructional materials, Iowa law has defined instructional materials to mean either printed or electronic textbooks and related core materials that are written and published primarily for use in elementary school and secondary school instruction and are required by a state educational agency or district for use by students in the student’s classes by the teacher of record.  Instructional materials does not include lesson plans.

 

 

Legal Reference:           Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .74, .77; 280.3, .14; 301.

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

 

Cross Reference:           213       Public Participation in Board Meetings

                                    402.5    Public Complaints About Employees

                                    602       Curriculum Development

                                    605       Instructional Materials

 

 

Approved:  09/21/2023

Reviewed:

Revised:

lflaherty@inde… Tue, 09/26/2023 - 11:02

605.08E1 - Request to Prohibit a Student from Checking Out Specific Library Materials

605.08E1 - Request to Prohibit a Student from Checking Out Specific Library Materials

Request to prohibit a student from checking out certain library materials to be submitted to the superintendent.  Please complete one form per student.

 

REQUEST INITIATED BY                                                                            DATE ___________

 

Name  ____________________________________________________________________________

 

Address  __________________________________________________________________________

 

City/State  _________________________ Zip Code__________________ Telephone_____________

 

Name of affected Student  _____________________________________________________________

 

Requester’s Relationship to Student (must be parent/legal guardian)____________________________

 

BOOK OR OTHER PRINTED MATERIAL TO PROHIBIT STUDENT FROM CHECKING OUT:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Author

 

Hardcover

 

Paperback

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Publisher (if known)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Publication

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MULTIMEDIA MATERIAL TO PROHIBIT STUDENT FROM CHECKING OUT:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Producer (if known)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Type of material (filmstrip, motion picture, etc.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dated

 

Signature

 

lflaherty@inde… Tue, 09/26/2023 - 11:05

605.08E2 - Request to Prohibit a Student from Accessing Specific Instructional and Library Materials

605.08E2 - Request to Prohibit a Student from Accessing Specific Instructional and Library Materials

Request to prohibit a student from checking out certain instructional materials to be submitted to the superintendent.  Please complete one form per student.

 

REQUEST INITIATED BY                                                                            DATE ___________

 

Name  ____________________________________________________________________________

 

Address  __________________________________________________________________________

 

City/State  _________________________ Zip Code__________________ Telephone_____________

 

Name of affected Student  _____________________________________________________________

 

Requester’s Relationship to Student (must be parent/legal guardian)____________________________

 

BOOK OR OTHER PRINTED MATERIAL TO PROHIBIT STUDENT FROM ACCESSING:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Author

 

Hardcover

 

Paperback

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Publisher (if known)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Publication

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MULTIMEDIA MATERIAL TO PROHIBIT STUDENT FROM ACCESSING:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Producer (if known)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Type of material (filmstrip, motion picture, etc.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dated

 

Signature

 

                                             

 

lflaherty@inde… Tue, 09/26/2023 - 11:07

606 - Instructional Arrangements

606 - Instructional Arrangements dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 13:59

606.1 - Shared Students

606.1 - Shared Students

The board may make arrangements for sharing students with neighboring school districts in order to expand the opportunities available in the education program or in the operation of the school district.  It will be within the discretion of the board to determine when and with which school district sharing agreements will be made.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to bring to the board's attention opportunities for sharing students with neighboring school districts.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 280.15; 282.10-.12 (2003).

 

Cross Reference:        217.3   Board of Directors and Adjoining District Board of Directors

                                    302.3   Administration and Adjoining District Administration

                                    410.2   Shared Licensed Employees

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 02/15/2013, 05/21/2018, 03/20/2023

Revised:  03/20/2023

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:01

606.2 - Class Size - Class Grouping

606.2 - Class Size - Class Grouping

It will be within the sole discretion of the board to determine the size of classes and to determine whether class grouping will take place.  The board will review the class sizes annually.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board on class size based upon the financial condition of the school district, the qualifications of and number of licensed employees, and other factors deemed relevant to the board.

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3 (2003).

Cross Reference:  606.9   Insufficient Classroom Space

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 02/15/2013, 05/21/2018, 03/20/2023

Revised:  03/20/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:02

606.3 - Homework

606.3 - Homework

Homework, extra class activities or assignments beyond the regular classroom instruction program are a part of the education program.  Homework will be an extension and an enrichment of the classroom instruction.

Homework will be an opportunity for students to practice skills and activities, to share and discuss ideas, to review materials, to become acquainted with resources, to organize thoughts, to prepare for classroom activity, or to make up incomplete assignments.

The amount of homework in grades one through six will be appropriate.  A reasonable amount of homework is required in grades seven through twelve.

Guidelines regarding homework will be developed in conjunction with the curriculum of the education program.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14 (2003).

 

Cross Reference:        501      Student Attendance

                                    606      Instructional Arrangements

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 02/15/2013, 05/21/2018, 03/20/2023

Revised:  03/20/2023

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:03

606.4 - School Ceremonies and Observances

606.4 - School Ceremonies and Observances

 

The school district will continue school ceremonies and observances which have become a tradition and a custom of the education program.  These include, but are not limited to, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and observance of holidays, such as Christmas, Halloween and Easter, by programs and performances.  Such ceremonies or observances will have a secular purpose and will not advocate or sponsor a particular religion.

The district will provide and maintain a suitable flagstaff at each school site and raise the Iowa and United States flags each school day as weather conditions permit.  The district will display the United States flag and administer the Pledge of Allegiance in each 1st through 12th grade classroom on school days.

At school sites with more than two flagstaffs, the following are allowed on the additional flagstaffs:

  • Flags representing the Independence Community School District.
  • Flags representing the cities of Brandon, Independence, Rowley, or Buchanan County, Iowa.
  • Flags representing U.S. armed forces.
  • Flags representing U.S. law enforcement agencies.
  • Flags representing other U.S. government entities.
  • Flags representing schools, including post-secondary institutions, participating in the activity or event at the site.
  • Flags of the nations of currently enrolled foreign students.

 

Students who do not wish to participate in these activities may be silent during the ceremony or observance or receive permission from the principal to be excused from the ceremony for religious reasons in compliance with board policy.

 

Legal Reference:          U.S. Const. amend. I.

                                    Lee v. Weisman, 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992).

                                    Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602 (1971).

                                    Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County, 608 F.Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985).

                                    Iowa Code § 279.8, 280.5

                                    Shurtleff v. City of Boston, 596 U.S. ___ (2022)

 

Cross Reference:         603      Instructional Curriculum

                                    604.6   Religious-Based Exclusion from a School Program

                                    906.1   Community Use of School District Facilities & Equipment

                                    604.10  Foreign Students

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 02/15/2013, 05/21/2018, 09/20/2021, 03/20/2023

Revised:  09/20/2021, 03/20/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:04

606.5 - Animals in the Classroom

606.5 - Animals in the Classroom

Live animals will not be allowed in school district facilities except under special circumstances and only for an educational purpose.  Permission from the principal will be required of anyone wishing to bring an animal into school district facilities.  Appropriate supervision of animals is required when animals are brought into the school district facilities.

The person bringing the animal must furnish transportation for the animal brought to school.  Animals will not be allowed to travel to and from the student's attendance center on the school bus without prior approval from the principal.

It will be the responsibility of the principal to determine appropriate supervision of animals in the classroom.  This policy is not intended to address the use of service animals, assistive animals, therapy animals or emotional support animals on district property.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code § 279.8

 

Cross Reference:         507      Student Health and Well-Being

                                    107      Assistance Animals

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 02/15/2013, 05/21/2018, 09/17/2018, 03/20/2023

Revised:  09/17/2018

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:06

606.6 - Student Production of Materials and Services

606.6 - Student Production of Materials and Services

Materials and services produced by students at the expense of the school district are the property of the school district, unless released by the superintendent.  Materials and services produced by students at the student's expense, except for incidental expense to the school district, are the property of the student.

 

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to determine incidental expense.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code § 279.8 (2003).

 

Cross Reference:          408.2   Licensed Employee Publication or Creation of Materials

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 02/15/2013, 05/21/2018, 03/20/2023

Revised:

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:08

606.7 - Student Field Trips and Excursions

606.7 - Student Field Trips and Excursions

The principal may authorize field trips and excursions when such events contribute to the achievement of education goals of the school district.  The school district will provide transportation for field trips and excursions. 

In authorizing field trips and excursions, the principal shall consider the financial condition of the school district, the educational benefit of the activity, the inherent risks or dangers of the activity, and other factors deemed relevant by the superintendent.  Written parental permission will be required prior to the student's participation in field trips and excursions.  The superintendent's approval will be required for field trips and excursions outside the state.  Board approval will be required for field trips and excursions which involve unusual length or expense.

Field trips and excursions are to be arranged with the principal well in advance.  A detailed schedule and budget must be submitted by the employee.  The school district will be responsible for obtaining a substitute teacher if one is needed.  Following field trips and excursions, the teacher may be required to submit a written summary of the event. 

 

 

Legal Reference:  390 C.F.R. Pt. 390.3(f) (2002).
  
                                    Iowa Code § 279.8 (2003).
  
                                    281 I.A.C. 43.9.

Cross Reference:  503.1   Student Conduct
  
                                    503.4   Good Conduct Rule
  
                                    603      Instructional Curriculum
  
                                    711      Transportation

Approved   11/1/2004                            Reviewed                                               Revised 10/27/2008
                                                                                                                                                            02/15/2013
                                                                                                                                                            05/21/2018     

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:09

606.7R1 - Protocols for Contractually Binding the District/Protocols for Student Trips

606.7R1 - Protocols for Contractually Binding the District/Protocols for Student Trips

Protocols For Contractually Binding The District

1.         No teacher has the authority to contractually obligate the district.

2.         Principals and other administrators may contractually obligate the district if there is a specific delegation of authority from the Board of Directors.

3.         The ability to contractually obligate the District is the sole prerogative and obligation of the Board of Directors except to the extent clearly delegated to an employee of the district.

 

Protocols For Student Trips

1.         Any contact between an employee of the district and a third party vendor offering to any extent a district authorized student trip shall immediately contact the superintendent prior to proceeding further.

2.         All negotiations for such a student trip shall be conducted through the superintendent’s office.  The involvement of any teacher and administrator in such negotiations shall be at the request of the superintendent.

3.         At the point that the intended student trip can be adequately described, the proposed trip should be presented to the Board of Directors for its initial authority to proceed.

4.         Due diligence shall be performed by the superintendent’s office, including but not limited to examination of references, satisfactory evidence of vendor’s financial strength, resources, adequate bonding, insurance. The superintendent may have the district’s legal counsel review all vendor contracts and bond documents.

5.         All site visits and designation of chaperones shall occur with the superintendent’s approval or his/her designee’s approval.  Any complimentary offerings by the vendor shall belong to the District for its use in conducting the trip.  Any complimentary offerings will be determined by the Board of Directors or designee (superintendent).  No employee of the district may receive complimentary offerings directly from the vendor. 

6.         Formal board review of due diligence results, contractual documents, and opinion of legal counsel if any and board approval are required prior to a binding contractual obligation which shall be in writing.

7.         All student trips outside of the State of Iowa (three nights or more) may include at least one school district administrator.  Administration shall have final authority on trip.  Board shall determine which trips require an administrator. 

8.         A list of persons traveling with students who are not school district employees must be turned in to the superintendent or his/her designee at least one week prior to departure.

9.         The superintendent or his/her designee shall confirm that the district’s liability policy will cover the trip or that additional insurance has been secured, if necessary.

10.       The superintendent or his/her designee shall receive a copy of all written communications distributed to students or parents.

11.       Trip arrangements must include contingency plans for emergencies and student discipline.

12.       All student fundraising activities must be approved in advance by the building principal, and then submitted to the activities director for final approval.  If the fund raiser is projected to raise more than $3,500.00, prior approval from the Board of Education will be required.

13.       The proceeds from fundraising using the Independence School District name or students are the property of the Independence Community School District.

14.       Preference will be given to vendors who have primary business in Iowa, but it is not an absolute (vendor range will include Iowa and bordering states).

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:12

606.8 - School Assembly

606.8 - School Assembly

The building principal may authorize programs or activities in the form of a school assembly when such events contribute to the achievement of education goals of the school district.  School assemblies will comply with the school calendar.

In authorizing a school assembly, the building principal will consider the financial condition of the school district, the educational benefit of the activity, the inherent risks or dangers of the activity, and other factors the building principal or superintendent consider relevant.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14 (2003).

Cross Reference:  504      Student Activities

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 03/18/2013, 09/17/2018, 04/17/2023

Revised:  04/17/2023

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:13

606.9 - Insufficient Classroom Space

606.9 - Insufficient Classroom Space

It is the goal of the district to create learning environments that encourage the growth and development of each student.  Providing classrooms with an appropriate student-teacher ratio is central to achieving this goal.  Insufficient classroom space exists when conditions in the district adversely affect the implementation of the district’s goals and its educational program. 

Insufficient classroom space will be determined on a case-by-case basis. 

In making its determination whether insufficient classroom space exists, the board may consider a number of factors, including but not limited to, the nature of the education program, the grade level, the available licensed employees, the instructional method, the physical space, student-teacher ratios, equipment and materials, facilities either being planned or under construction, facilities planned to be closed, financial condition of the school district and projected to be available, a sharing agreement in force or planned, a bargaining agreement in force, laws or rules governing special education class size, board-adopted school district goals and objectives, and other factors considered relevant by the board.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to make annual recommendations to the board.  In making the recommendations, the superintendent will consider enrollment, space availability, the number of sections per grade level, and consultation with building administrators.  It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to bring this policy to the attention of the board each year.

 

Legal Reference:         Iowa Code § 282.18(13) (2003).

                                    281 I.A.C. 17.6(3).

 

 

Cross Reference:       105      Long-Range Needs Assessment

                                    501.15 Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Receiving District

                                    606.2   Class Size - Class Grouping

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 03/18/2013, 09/17/2018, 04/17/2023

Revised:  09/17/2018, 01/17/2022, 04/17/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:15

606.10 - Early Release for Seniors

606.10 - Early Release for Seniors

The school academic year for students will be for a minimum of 1,080 hours of instruction in the school calendar.  Seniors may be excused up to 30 hours of instruction after they have met the district's requirements for graduation.  The board may also excuse graduating seniors from making up days due to inclement weather if the student has met the school district's graduation requirements.

The superintendent has the authority to deny early release, or reduce the number of days for which graduating seniors may be excused, if a senior has failed to meet the requirements for graduation, as a form of discipline for an individual or for the class as a whole, or if the academic year has been disrupted by school closings for severe weather or other emergencies.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 20.9; 279.10 (2003).
  
                                    281 I.A.C. 12.2(1).

Cross Reference:  501      Student Attendance
  
                            601.1   School Calendar

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 03/18/2013, 09/17/2018, 04/17/2023

Revised:  09/17/2018, 04/17/2023

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:16

607 - Services

607 - Services dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:18

607.01 - Student Guidance and Counseling Program

607.01 - Student Guidance and Counseling Program

The board will provide a student guidance and counseling program.  The school counselor will be certified with the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners and hold the qualifications required by the board.  The guidance and counseling program will serve grades pre-kindergarten through twelve.  The program will assist students with their personal, educational, and career development.  The program is coordinated with the education program and involves licensed employees.

Prior to graduation, the district will advise students on how to successfully complete the free application for federal student aid.

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 280.14; 622.10 (2003).
  
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(11).

Cross Reference:           505.6  Graduation Requirements                                                                                                                                             506    Student Records
  
                                     603    Instructional Curriculum
  
                                     604.5 Program for At-Risk Students

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 03/18/2013, 09/17/2018, 09/19/2022, 04/17/2023

Revised:  09/17/2018, 09/19/2022, 04/17/2023

                                                        

              

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:18

607.02 - Student Health Services

607.02 - Student Health Services

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

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

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

The superintendent, in conjunction with the school nurse, will develop administrative regulations implementing this policy. 

 

Legal Reference:    42 U.S.C. §§ 12101 et seq.

                               34 C.F.R. pt. 99, 104, 200, 300 et seq.

    29 U.S.C. § 794(a)

    28 C.F.R. 35

                               20 U.S.C. 1232g § 1400 6301 et seq.

                               Iowa Code §§ 22.7, 139A.3. .8, .21; 143.1, 152, 256.7(24), .11, 279; 280.23.

    281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), (7), (11); 12.4(12); 12.8.

    282 I.A.C. 15.3(14); 22.

    641 I.A.C. 7.

    655 I.A.C. 6.

 

Cross Reference:    501.04         Entrance - Admissions

                                507            Student Health and Well-Being

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 03/18/2013, 09/17/2018, 08/15/2022, 04/17/2023

Revised:  05/27/2008, 08/15/2022, 10/16/2023

               

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:20

607.02R1 - Student Health Services Regulation

607.02R1 - Student Health Services Regulation
  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.

A.     Supports to improve student achievement include:

      1.  Qualified health personnel

      2.  School superintendent, school nurse, and school health team working collaboratively

      3.  Family and community involvement

      4.  Optimal student health services program with commitment to its continuing improvement

B.      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

         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.

 

 

    II. 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

4.   Communicate (written, oral, electronic) health needs as consistent with confidentiality laws

  1. 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

3.   Encourage appropriate use of health care

  1. 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 (IHPs) 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 disease and monitor immunizations

6.   Promote optimal mental health

7.   Promote a safe school facility and a safe school environment

8.   Participate in and attend team meetings as a team member and health consultant

         D.  Promote student health, well-being, 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

4.   Provide health promotion and injury and disease prevention education

E.      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 school health records

6.   Coordinate program with all school health components

7.   Coordinate with school improvement

8.   Evaluate and revise the health service 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

13. Provide for professional development for school health services staff

III.  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 school, school-linked services connected to the school, primary care, mental health, substance abuse, and dental health.

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:22

607.3 - Musical Instrument Display Night

607.3 - Musical Instrument Display Night

Annually, as a service to students and their parents, the board may hold a musical instrument display night.  The event is designed to provide an opportunity for students and their parents to view, purchase, or rent musical instruments and accessories if they desire.

This policy does not require students and parents to purchase musical instruments from the vendor displaying at this event.  This policy will not limit a student's participation in the band or require a student to participate in band or other activities involving musical instruments.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop guidelines regarding the qualifications a vendor must meet to display at this event.  Vendors, invited by the teacher, must meet those qualifications.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 280.14 (2003).
  
                                    1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 580.

Cross Reference:  504      Student Activities
  
                            906      Use of School District Facilities & Equipment

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 03/18/2013, 09/17/2018, 04/17/2023

Revised:  04/17/2023

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:24

607.4 - Class Ring Display

607.4 - Class Ring Display

Annually, as a service to students and their parents, the board may provide a class ring display for students in grades nine through twelve.  The service is designed to provide an opportunity for students and their parents to view class rings and accessories.

This policy does not require students or parents to purchase class rings from the vendor displaying at the school.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop guidelines regarding the qualifications a vendor must meet to display at this event.  Vendors are chosen by the principal and must meet the qualifications established by the superintendent.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 280.14 (2003).
  
                                    1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 580.

Cross Reference:  504      Student Activities
  
                            906      Use of School District Facilities & Equipment

 

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  05/27/2008, 03/18/2013, 09/17/2018, 04/17/2023

Revised:  

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 02/23/2021 - 14:26