900 - SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMUNITY RELATIONS

900 - SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMUNITY RELATIONS jen@iowaschool… Thu, 02/04/2021 - 09:44

900 - Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

900 - Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

Successful education programs require the support of the school district community.  The board addresses the importance of the role of the school district community in the school district in this series of the policy manual.  The board recognizes this support is dependent on the school district community's understanding of participation in the efforts, goals, problems and programs of the school district.

In this section, the board sets out its policies defining its relationship with the school district community.  In striving to obtain the support of the school district community, the board will:

  • Provide access to school district records;
  • Inform the school district community of the school district's goals, objectives, achievements, and needs;
  • Invite the input of the school district community; and,
  • Encourage cooperation between the school district and the school district community.

 

 

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 03/15/2010                             Revised                   
                                                                                       05/18/2015
                                                                                       12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:23

901 - Public Communications

901 - Public Communications dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:25

901.01 - Public Examination of School District Records

901.01 - Public Examination of School District Records

 

Public records of the school district may be viewed by the public during the regular business hours of the administration offices of the school district.  These hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for holidays and recesses.

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

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

Persons wanting copies may be assessed a reasonable fee for the copy.  Persons wanting compilation of information may be assessed a reasonable fee for the time of the employee to review and compile the requested information.  The district will make every effort to provide the public record requested at no cost other than copying costs for a record which takes less than thirty minutes to produce.

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

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

  • Security procedures
  • Emergency preparedness procedures
  • Evacuation procedures
  • Security codes and passwords

It is the responsibility of the board secretary to maintain accurate and current records of the school district.  It is the responsibility of the board secretary to respond in a timely manner to requests for viewing and receiving public information of the school district.

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 21.4; 22; 291.6 (2003).

                                    1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 88.

                                    1972 Op. Att'y Gen. 158.

                                    1968 Op. Att'y Gen. 656.

 

 

Cross Reference:          218      Board of Directors' Records

                                    401.6   Employee Records

                                    506      Student Records

                                    708      Care, Maintenance, and Disposal of School District Records

                                    902.1   News Media Relations

 

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 11/20/2006                     Revised 12/19/2006

                                                                             12/19/2006                                08/15/2022

                                                                             03/15/2010

                                                                             05/18/2015

                                                                             12/21/2020

                                                                             08/15/2022

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:26

901.02 - Board of Directors and Community Relations

901.02 - Board of Directors and Community Relations

The board recognizes the need for a communications program to provide effective two-way communication between the school district and the school district community.  The school district's communications program shall strive to meet the following goals.

  • To keep citizens informed through a regular flow of information about the school district and its programs;
  • To encourage and organize the interchange of ideas between the school district and the community by developing and implementing techniques for community involvement in the school district and for school district involvement in the community; and
  • To assess public knowledge, attitudes and concerns on a regular basis.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to establish and maintain an on-going communications program with the community.  The superintendent shall make a recommendation to the board annually for changes in the communications program.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21; 22; 279.8 (2003).

Cross Reference:  104      The People and Their School District
  
                                    209      Committees of the Board of Directors
  
                                    217      Board of Directors' Relationships
  
                                    302      Administration Relationships
  
                                    402      Employees and Outside Relations
  
                                    902      Press, Radio and Television News Media
  
                                    904      Public Participation in the School District

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 03/15/2010                             Revised                   
                                                                                       05/18/2015
                                                                                       12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:28

902 - Press, Radio, and Television News Media

902 - Press, Radio, and Television News Media dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:29

902.01 - News Media Relations

902.01 - News Media Relations

The board recognizes the value of and supports open, fair and honest communication with the news media.  The board will maintain a cooperative relationship with the news media.  As part of this cooperative relationship, the board and the media will develop a means for sharing information while respecting each party's limitations.

Members of the news media are encouraged and welcome to attend open board meetings.  The board president shall be the spokesperson for the board, and the superintendent shall be the spokesperson for the school district.  It shall be the responsibility of the board president and superintendent to respond to inquiries from the news media about the school district.

Members of the news media seeking information about the school district shall direct their inquiries to the superintendent.  The superintendent shall accurately and objectively provide the facts and board positions in response to inquiries from the news media about the school district.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21.4; 22; 279.8 (2003).

Cross Reference:  901      Public Communications
  
                                    902      Press, Radio and Television News Media

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 03/15/2010                             Revised                   
                                                                                       05/18/2015
                                                                                       12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:29

902.02 - News Conferences and Interviews

902.02 - News Conferences and Interviews

The superintendent, on behalf of the board and the school district, may hold a news conference or respond to a request for an interview with the news media.

The superintendent shall respond accurately, openly, honestly, and objectively to inquiries from the news media about the school district.

News conferences and interviews planned or pre-arranged for school district activities shall include the board and the superintendent.  News conferences for issues requiring an immediate response may be held by the superintendent.  It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether a news conference or interview shall be held to provide an immediate response to an issue.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of news conferences and interviews.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21.4; 22; 279.8 (2003).

Cross Reference:  901      Public Communications
  
                                    902      Press, Radio and Television News Media

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 03/15/2010                            Revised                   
                                                                                       05/18/2015
                                                                                       12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:31

902.03 - News Releases

902.03 - News Releases

The superintendent shall determine when a news release about internal school district and board matters will be issued.  In making this determination, the superintendent shall strive to keep the media and the school district community accurately and objectively informed.  Further, the superintendent shall strive to create and maintain a positive image for the school district.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to approve news releases originating within the school district prior to their release.

News releases will be prepared and disseminated to news media in the school district community.  Questions about news releases shall be directed to the superintendent.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Widmer v. Reitzler, 182 N.W.2d 177 (Iowa 1970).
  
                                    Dobrovolny v. Reinhardt, 173 N.W.2d 837 (Iowa 1970).
  
                                    Iowa Code §§ 21.4; 22.2 (2003).
  
                                    1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 73.
  
                                    1952 Op. Att'y Gen. 133.

Cross Reference:  902      Press, Radio and Television News Media

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 03/15/2010                             Revised                   
                                                                                       05/18/2015
                                                                                       12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:32

902.04 - Students and the News Media

902.04 - Students and the News Media

Generally, students may not be interviewed during the school day by members of the news media. The students, while on the school district premises, shall refer interview requests and information requests from the news media to their principal.

It shall be within the discretion of the principal, after consulting with the superintendent, to allow or disallow the news media to interview and to receive information from the student while the student is under the control of the school district.  The principal may also contact the student's parents.

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

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2003).

Cross Reference:  502.11 Interviews of Students by Outside Agencies
  
                                    902      Press, Radio and Television News Media

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 03/15/2010                            Revised                   
                                                                                       05/18/2015
                                                                                       12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:33

902.05 - Employees and the News Media

902.05 - Employees and the News Media

Employees shall refer interview requests and information requests from the news media to the superintendent's office.  Employees may be interviewed or provide information about school district matters after receiving permission from the superintendent.

It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to allow the news media to interview and to receive information from employees.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop guidelines for assisting employees in complying with this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2003).

Cross Reference:  901      Public Communications
  
                                    902      Press, Radio and Television News Media

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 03/15/2010                            Revised                   
                                                                                       05/18/2015
                                                                                       12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:34

902.06 - Live Broadcast or Videotaping

902.06 - Live Broadcast or Videotaping

Individuals may broadcast or videotape public school district events, including open board meetings, as long as it does not interfere with or disrupt the school district event and it does not create an undue burden in adapting the buildings and sites to accommodate the request.

It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether the request is unduly burdensome and whether the broadcast or videotaping will interfere with or disrupt the school district event.

Videotaping of classroom activities will be allowed at the discretion of the superintendent.  Parents will be notified prior to videotaping of classroom activities.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations outlining the procedures for making the request and the rules for operation if the request is granted.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21.4, .7; 22; 279.8 (2003).

Cross Reference:  901.2   Board of Directors and Community Relations
  
                                    902.1   News Media Relations
  
                                    904.3   Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 03/15/2010                             Revised                   
                                                                                       05/18/2015
                                                                                       12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:35

902.07 - Unmanned Aircraft or Aerial Systems

902.07 - Unmanned Aircraft or Aerial Systems

The use or possession of unmanned aircraft or aerial systems (UAS), also known as drones, is prohibited for any purpose by any person or entity at any District-sponsored event, game, match, tournament, or anywhere in, on or directly above property or premises owned, maintained, or used by the District for any purpose. 

An exception to this policy may be granted in writing by the Superintendent or Superintendent’s designee, in his or her sole discretion, to law enforcement, public safety agencies, media, or other entities or individuals.  Such exceptions would be required to sign an agreement with the District.  All photos/videos taken will become the sole property of the District.  All operators will be required to comply with applicable local, state and federal laws.

This prohibition applies to all school owned premises, including but not limited to, the area above and upon all spectator areas, fields of play, courts, arenas, stadiums, mats, gym floor or pool, practice facilities, parking areas, and includes a ban on the entire facility or property being used as part of the event.

For purposes of this policy, a UAS is any unmanned airborne device or aircraft.  The District reserves the right to refuse admission to anyone possessing, operating, or attempting to operate a UAS or to request the immediate removal of any person using or attempting to use a UAS in violation of this policy.

 

Approved 01/18/2016                                    Reviewed 12/21/2020                         Revised 10/17/2016                  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:37

903 - Other Intra-district Relations

903 - Other Intra-district Relations

The board shall work with other local government units, colleges and universities, technical schools, businesses and industries, private schools, education associations, local community organizations and associations to provide additional education opportunities for the students in the school district.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to bring opportunities for cooperation to the attention of the board.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2003).

Cross Reference:  217      Board of Directors' Relationships
  
                                    302      Administration Relationships
  
                                    402      Employees and Outside Relations

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 04/19/2010                             Revised                   
                                                                                       05/18/2015
                                                                                       12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:39

904 - Public Participation in the School District

904 - Public Participation in the School District dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:41

904.01 - School - Community Groups

904.01 - School - Community Groups

 

The board values the participation and the support of school district-community groups which strive for the betterment of the school district and the education program.  The board will work closely with these groups.

Prior to any purchase of, or fund raising for, the purchase of goods or services for the school district, the group shall confer with the superintendent to assist the group in purchasing goods or services to meet the school district's needs.

Funds raised by these groups for the school district are separate from the accounts of the school district.

It will be the responsibility of the building principal to be the liaison with the school district-community groups affiliated with the building principal's attendance center.

 

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 279.8

 

 

Cross Reference:          104      The People and Their School District

                                    904      Public Participation in the School District

 

 

 

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 06/15/2015                             Revised 04/19/2010

                                                                             12/21/2020                                         10/18/2021

                                                                             10/18/2021   

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:41

904.02 - Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

904.02 - Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

 

The board recognizes the valuable resource it has in the members of the school district community.  When possible and in concert with the education program, members of the school district community may be asked to make presentations to the students or to assist employees in duties other than teaching.  The school district may officially recognize the contributions made by volunteers.

Recruitment, training, utilization, and the maintenance of records for the purposes of insurance coverage and/or recognition of school district volunteers is the responsibility of the superintendent.

Volunteers within the district are held to the same high standards of behavior as school employees and will be subject to background checks prior to interacting with student in a volunteer capacity.  It will be the responsibility of the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee to create regulations necessary to carry out this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 670.

 

 

Cross Reference:          603.1   Basic Instruction Program

                                    904.3   Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites

 

 

 

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 04/19/2010                            Revised 10/18/2021

                                                                            06/15/2015

                                                                            12/21/2020

                                                                            10/18/2021

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:42

904.03 - Visitors to School District Buildings & Sites

904.03 - Visitors to School District Buildings & Sites

The board welcomes the interest of parents and other members of the school district community and invites them to visit the school buildings and sites.  Visitors, which include persons other than employees or students, must notify the principal of their presence in the facility upon arrival.

Persons who wish to visit a classroom while school is in session are asked to notify the principal and obtain approval from the principal prior to the visit so appropriate arrangements can be made and so class disruption can be minimized.  Teachers and other employees shall not take time from their duties to discuss matters with visitors.

Visitors shall conduct themselves in a manner fitting to their age level and maturity and with mutual respect and consideration for the rights of others while attending school events.  Visitors failing to conduct themselves accordingly may be asked to leave the premises.  Children who wish to visit school must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.

It shall be the responsibility of employees to report inappropriate conduct.  It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent and principals to take the action necessary to cease the inappropriate conduct.  If the superintendent or principals are not available, a school district employee shall act to cease the inappropriate conduct.

General Principles

1.  The Volunteer Program of the Independence Community School District operates with the approval of the  

     Board of Education and the School Administration, and it is at all times guided by the principles and policies

     of the school district.

2.  Volunteers serve only in an auxiliary capacity under the direction and supervision of professional school  

      personnel.

3.  A volunteer supplies supplemental and supportive service and is not a substitute for a member of a school staff.

4.  Wherever possible, volunteers are assigned to the particular school where they wish to serve.

5.  A volunteer does not have access to confidential files and records.

6.  The relationship between volunteers and the school staff should be one of mutual respect and

confidence.

 

VolunteersScreening Statement

A screening statement is required of all volunteers whose primary role is that of working directly with students or assisting staff on a regular basis; supervising/chaperoning students; or acting as an authority figure.

              a.         Categories of volunteers included in screening statement:

Classroom volunteers/teacher assistants
             
Field trip supervisor, trip chaperones
             
Business Partnership Volunteers
             
Volunteer sport coaches/assistants

              b.         Categories of volunteers excluded from the screening statement:
      (i.e. volunteers whose primary role is not the supervision of students)

                                      Classroom resource speakers
                                      Concession workers, ticket-takers, etc.

The screening statement shall be collected on a separate card and kept on file in the district office. This protects the privacy of the volunteers and keeps the cards readily available and in a central location.

The screening statement can be completed in conjunction with the Volunteer registration information, or at the time volunteer assignment is made, depending on operational procedures at the building.

 

Coaching Volunteers

All Volunteer Coaches, in order to work with Independence Community Student-Athletes must possess a current Coaching Authorization or Coaching Endorsement.  The Coaching Authorization or Coaching Endorsement, background checks and any other necessary paperwork must be on file with the Central Administration Office before the Candidate has contact with the athletic team or individuals. Volunteer Coaches must have the permission of the Head Varsity Coach and the Candidate must also be approved by the Independence School Activities Director before any student contact.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 716.7 (2003).

Cross Reference:  220      School Visitation by Board of Directors
  
                                    902      Press, Radio and Television News Media
  
                                    904.2   Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 06/15/2015                             Revised 12/21/2009
                                                                                          12/21/2020                                       06/18/2012

 

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:43

904.3E1 - Volunteer Interest Information

904.3E1 - Volunteer Interest Information

SCHOOL _________________   NAME ____________________________________________ 

__ Parent    __ Non-Parent   __ Senior Citizen   __ Youth        DOB (mm/dd/yy) ____/____/____

Street Address_________________________________________________________________

City/State Zip______________________________________ Phone _____________________

 

Volunteer Disclosure Statement

It is the policy of the Independence Community School District Board of Education to make every reasonable effort to provide a safe learning environment for students working with volunteers.  Therefore, the district requires the following information:

Have you ever been convicted of a felony?  _____YES _____ NO

Have you ever been convicted, or had an administrative finding, of violating any law involving child abuse, sexual abuse, physical abuse, sexual harassment or exploitation, or any other crime related to children? _____ YES _____ NO

Do you currently have charges pending relating to any of the aforementioned?  _____ YES _____ NO

 

As a volunteer for the Independence Community School District, I understand that it is my responsibility to treat information about students, staff, and other situations of a professional nature as confidential.

 

Signature                                                                              Date                   

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:46

904.04 - Public Conduct on School Premises

904.04 - Public Conduct on School Premises

School sponsored or approved activities are an important part of the school program and offer students the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities not offered during the regular school day.  School sponsored or approved activities are provided for the enjoyment and opportunity for involvement they afford the students.

Spectators are permitted to attend school sponsored or approved activities only as guests of the school district, and, accordingly as a condition of such permission, they must comply with the school district's rules and policies.  Spectators will not be allowed to interfere with the enjoyment of the students participating, other spectators or with the performance of employees and officials supervising the school sponsored or approved activity.  Spectators, like the student participants, are expected to display mature behavior and sportsmanship.  The failure of spectators to do so is not only disruptive but embarrassing to the students, the school district and the entire community.

To protect the rights of students to participate without fear of interference, and to permit the sponsors and officials of sponsored or approved activities to perform their duties without interference, the following provisions are in effect:

  •                Abusive, verbal or physical conduct of spectators directed at participants, officials or sponsors of sponsored or approved activities or at other spectators will not be tolerated.
  •                Verbal or physical conduct of spectators that interferes with the performance of students, officials or sponsors of sponsored or approved activities will not be tolerated.
  •                The use of vulgar, obscene or demeaning expression directed at students, officials or sponsors participating in a sponsored or approved activity or at other spectators will not be tolerated.

If a spectator at a sponsored or approved activity becomes physically or verbally abusive, uses vulgar, obscene or demeaning expression, or in any way impedes the performance of an activity, the spectator may be removed from the event by the individual in charge of the event and the superintendent may recommend the exclusion of the spectator at future sponsored or approved activities.  The WAMAC Athletic Conference has approved this policy for conference-wide implementation.

Upon recommendation of the superintendent, the board shall cause a notice of exclusion from sponsored or approved activities to be sent to the spectator involved.  The notice shall advise the spectator of the school district's right to exclude the individual from school district activities and events and the duration of the exclusion.  If the spectator disobeys the school official or district's order, law enforcement authorities may be contacted and asked to remove the spectator.  If a spectator has been notified of exclusion and thereafter attends a sponsored or approved activity, the spectator shall be advised that his/her attendance will result in prosecution.  The school district may obtain a court order for permanent exclusion from future school sponsored or approved activities.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 716.7 (2003).

Cross Reference:  205.1   Board Security and Protection
  
                                    504      Student Activities
  
                                    802.6   Parking
  
                                    802.7   Vandalism
  
                                    904      Public Participation in the School District

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 04/19/2010                             Revised                   
                                                                                      06/15/2015
                                                                                      12/21/2020 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:47

904.05 - Distribution of Materials

904.05 - Distribution of Materials

The board recognizes that students, employees, parents or citizens may want to distribute materials within the school district that are non-curricular.  Non-curricular materials to be distributed must be approved by the building principal and meet certain standards prior to their distribution.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the building principals to draft administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 

 

Legal Reference:  U.S. Const. amend. I.
  
                                    Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
  
                                    Bethel School District v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
  
                                    New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).
  
                                    Tinker v. Des Moines Ind. Comm. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969).
                                      Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
  
                                    Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.22 (2003).

Cross References:  502.5   Freedom of Expression
  
                                    503.1   Student Conduct
  
                                    504      Student Activities
  
                                    603.8   Academic Freedom

Approved   11/01/2004                          Reviewed 04/19/2010                            Revised 07/28/2015
                                                                                            12/21/2020                          

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:50

904.5R1 - Distribution of Materials Regulation

904.5R1 - Distribution of Materials Regulation

I.       Guidelines.

Individuals, including students, may have the right to distribute on school premises, at reasonable times and places, unofficial written material, petitions, buttons, badges or other insignia, except expression which:

         1.      is obscene to minors;

         2.      is libelous;

         3.      contains indecent, vulgar, profane or lewd language;

         4.      advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law;

         5.      constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses other people (e.g., threats of violence, defamation of character or of a person's race, color, creed, religion, gender, socioeconomic status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or national origin);

         6.      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.

Distribution on school premises of material in categories (1) through (4) to any student is prohibited.  Distribution on school premises of material in categories (5) and (6) to a substantial number of students is prohibited.

 

  1. Procedures.

Anyone wishing to distribute unofficial written material must first submit for approval a copy of the material to the building principal at least twenty-four hours in advance of desired distribution time, together with the following information:

         1.      Name and phone number of the person submitting request and, if a student, the homeroom number;

         2.      Date(s) and time(s) of day of intended display or distribution;

         3.      Location where material will be displayed or distributed;

         4.      The grade(s) of students to whom the display or distribution is intended.

Within twenty-four hours of submission, the principal will render a decision whether the material violates the guidelines in subsection I or the time, place and manner restrictions in subsection III of this policy.  In the event that permission to distribute the material is denied, the person submitting the request should be informed in writing of the reasons for the denial.  Permission to distribute material does not imply approval of its contents by either the school, the administration, the board or the individual reviewing the material submitted.

If the person submitting the request does not receive a response within twenty-four hours of submission, the person shall contact the building principal's office to verify that the lack of response was not due to an inability to locate the person.  If the person has made this verification and there is no response to the request, the material may be distributed in accordance with the time, place and manner provisions in subsection III.

If the person is dissatisfied with the decision of the principal, the person may submit a written request for appeal to the superintendent.  If the person does not receive a response within three school days of submitting the appeal, the person shall contact the superintendent to verify that the lack of response is not due to an inability to locate the person.  If the person has made this verification and there is no response to the appeal, the material may be distributed in accordance with the time, place and manner provisions in subsection III.

At every level of the process the person submitting the request shall have the right to appear and present the reasons, supported by relevant witnesses and material, as to why distribution of the written material is appropriate.

Permission to distribute material does not imply approval of its contents by either the school district, the board, the administration or the individual reviewing the material submitted.

 

III.    Time, place and manner of distribution.

The distribution of written material is prohibited when it blocks the safe flow of traffic within corridors and entrance ways of the school or otherwise disrupts school activities.  The distribution of unofficial material shall be limited to a reasonable time, place and manner as follows:

         1.      The material shall be distributed from a table set up for the purpose in a location designated by the principal, which location shall not block the safe flow of traffic or block the corridors or entrance ways, but which shall give reasonable access to students.

         2.      The material shall be distributed either before and/or after the regular

instructional day.                      

         3.      No written material may be distributed during and at the place of a normal school activity if it is reasonably likely to cause a material and substantial disruption of that activity.

 

IV.    Definitions.

The following definitions apply to the following terms used in this policy:

         1.      "Obscene to minors" is defined as:

                  (a)    The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the written material, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest of minors of the age to whom distribution is requested;

                  (b)    The material depicts or describes, in a manner that is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community concerning how such conduct
                        should be presented to minors of the age to whom distribution is requested, sexual conduct such as intimate sexual acts (normal or perverted),
                        masturbation, excretory functions, and lewd exhibition of the genitals; and

(c)     The material, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value for minors.

2.      "Minor" means any person under the age of eighteen.

        3.      "Material and substantial disruption" of a normal school activity is defined as follows:

                  (a)     Where the normal school activity is an educational program of the district for which student attendance is compulsory, "material and substantial disruption" is defined as any disruption which interferes with or impedes the implementation of that program.

  (b)     Where the normal school activity is voluntary in nature (including, without limitation, school athletic events, school plays and concerts, and lunch periods), "material and substantial disruption" is defined as student rioting, unlawful seizures of property, widespread shouting or boisterous demonstration, sit-in, stand-in, walk-out, or other related forms of activity. 

                  In order for expression to be considered disruptive, there must exist specific facts upon which the likelihood of disruption can be forecasted including past experience in the school, current events influencing student activities and behavior, and instances of actual or threatened disruption relating to the written material in question.

         4.      "School activities" means any activity of students sponsored by the school and includes, by way of example but not limited to, classroom work, library activities, physical education classes, official assemblies and other similar gatherings, school athletic contests, band concerts, school plays and in-school lunch periods.

         5.      "Unofficial" written material includes all written material except school newspapers, literary magazines, yearbooks, and other publications funded and/or sponsored or authorized by the school.  Examples include leaflets, brochures, flyers, petitions, placards and underground newspapers, whether written by students or others.

         6.      "Libelous" is a false and unprivileged statement about a specific individual that tends to harm the individual's reputation or to lower him/her in the esteem of the community.  

         7.      "Distribution" means circulation or dissemination of written material by means of handing out free copies, selling or offering copies for sale and accepting donations for copies.  It includes displaying written material in areas of the school which are generally frequented by students.

 

V.     Disciplinary action.

         Distribution by any student of unofficial written material prohibited in subsection I or in violation of subsection III may be halted, and students may be subject to discipline including suspension and expulsion.  Any other party violating this policy may be requested to leave the school property immediately and, if necessary, local law enforcement officials will be called.

 

VI.    Notice of policy to students.

         A copy of this policy will be published in student handbooks and posted conspicuously in school buildings.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:52

905 - Community Activities Involving Students

905 - Community Activities Involving Students dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:55

905.01 Transporting Students in Private Vehicles

905.01 Transporting Students in Private Vehicles

Generally, transporting students for school purposes will be done in a vehicle owned by the school district and driven by a school bus driver.  Students may be transported in private vehicles for school purposes on an as-needed basis.  It will be within the discretion of the superintendent to determine when this is appropriate.

Individuals transporting students for school purposes in private vehicles must have the permission of the superintendent and meet all applicable requirements set by the district.  Prior to transporting students in private vehicles, the district may require the following:

  • The vehicle used to transport the student(s) is in good condition and meets all applicable safety requirements;
  • The driver transporting the student(s) possesses a valid drivers’ license;
  • Proof of insurance has been supplied to the superintendent and the insurance satisfies the minimum coverage requirements for driving personal vehicles in the State of Iowa; and;
  • The parents of the students to be transported have given written permission to the superintendent.

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

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

 

Legal Reference:          Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 285; 321.

                                    281 I.A.C. 43.

 

Cross Reference:       401.11 Transporting of Students by Employees

                                    401.12 Employee Travel Compensation

                                    711      Transportation

 

 

 

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 04/19/2010                             Revised 05/16/2016

                                                                             06/15/2015                                            01/17/2022

                                                                            12/21/2020

                                                                            01/17/2022

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:56

905.02 - Advertising and Promotion

905.02 - Advertising and Promotion

The use of students, the school district name, school logos, or its buildings and sites for advertising and promoting products and/or services of entities and organizations operating for a profit shall be disallowed.  Nonprofit entities and organizations may be allowed to use students, the school district name, school logos, or its buildings and sites if the purpose is educationally related and prior approval has been obtained from the board.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2003).

Cross Reference:  402.9   Solicitations from Outside
  
                                    504.6   Student Fund Raising
  
                                    905      Community Activities Involving Students

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 04/19/2010                             Revised 08/17/2015
                                                                                       12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:58

905.03 - Weapons in the School District

905.03 - Weapons in the School District

The board believes weapons, other dangerous objects and look-a-likes in school district facilities and at school district-approved events cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.

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

  • law enforcement;
  • military personnel;
  • corrections officers;
  • individuals approved in writing by the Superintendent, and;
  • students and individuals approved in writing by the Superintendent who are actively engaging in a school district approved firearms safety course, hunter education course or shooting sports activity.

Individuals found to be in violation of this district policy will be required to immediately remove the weapon, dangerous object or look-a-likes from the school district property or event.  Students found to be in violation of this policy or any other board policies related to weapons will be subject to disciplinary proceedings. 

 

Legal Reference:           18 U.S.C. § 921

                                    Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 483A.27(11), 724

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

 

Cross Reference:           502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

                                    503      Student Discipline

                                    507      Student Health and Well-Being

 

 

Approved 09/20/2021                           Reviewed 09/20/2021                                Revised                 

lschaul@indeek12.org Mon, 11/15/2021 - 10:27

906 - Use of School District Facilities & Equipment

906 - Use of School District Facilities & Equipment dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:59

906.01 - Community Use of School Facilities & Equipment

906.01 - Community Use of School Facilities & Equipment

The use of District facilities as centers for community participation should be encouraged whenever those activities are beneficial to the community-at-large.

Activities should be scheduled so they do not conflict with the District’s academic or co-curricular programs, with due consideration given to the conservation of energy and District’s expense.

The Board of Education reserves the right to deny the use of District facilities at any time.

Community Use of Facilities--General Guidelines

1.  Persons who attend activities must confine themselves to the area of the facility requested. Use of hallways,   

     foyers, and other common areas of buildings, where safe egress is blocked are strictly prohibited.

2.  Charges will begin with the time designated for opening of the building and terminate with the closing.

3.  Failure on the part of the renter to notify the Activities Director or Facility Manager by 2:00 p.m., of the cancellation of a       meeting or event scheduled for any time after 5:00 p.m., of that date will render the renter liable for payment of the minimum rental fee. Group I users will be liable for payment of any custodial overtime that may result.

4.  Three cancellations or “no shows” in a multi-day contract may result in termination of the contract.

5.  The use of buildings and/or facilities by outside organizations will be automatically canceled when schools must close         due to inclement weather or other emergency conditions.

6.  Renters must assume full responsibility for crowd control. Satisfactory sponsorship and adequate adult supervision must be provided. This will include police
     and/or fire protection where necessary, or when requested by the District.

7.  Disrespectful behavior by renter or renter’s participants will not be tolerated and may result in contract termination.

8.  The District will provide for normal custodial services in connection with the use of the building and/or grounds.

9.  The renter will indemnify the District for any damages to the school property. Damages must be immediately reported to a District staff member.

10.  Organizations will provide the District a “Certificate of Insurance” naming the District as additional insured or purchase liability insurance in accordance with the current requirements of the District.

11.  Approval will not be granted for any activity, which may be prejudicial to the best interests of the schools.

12.  Gambling (e.g., bingo, raffles, lotteries) may be permitted in schools or on school grounds only in strict accordance with Iowa Gaming Commission.

13.  The possession or use of intoxicating beverages or controlled substances will not be permitted on school premises.             The use of tobacco of any kind is strictly prohibited.

14.  Gym shoes will be required for all activity-type games such as basketball, volleyball and badminton, played on any gymnasium floor. Street shoes are prohibited. 

15.  Users will be required to remove, or reimburse the District for the removal of any materials, equipment, furnishings or rubbish left after use of facilities.

16.  The appropriate building administrator must approve all decorations or the application of materials to walls or floors.             Such decorations will be subject to state and local fire regulations. Displayed flags will conform to School Ceremonies and Observations policy 606.4.

17.  The use of candles or other flammable material will be prohibited.

18.  Specially equipped rooms, such as life skills, computer labs, science labs, industrial technology, libraries, storage rooms, and administrative offices, etc., will not be made available for use, except by specific permission from the appropriate building administrator.

19.  The appropriate building administrator must approve the use of school-owned equipment when requested by the renter.

20.  Public address systems (except at the stadium), lighting and special stage equipment must be approved by the activities coordinator and operated by experienced operators provided by the District. Charges will be assessed to the renter for these services.

21.  Any unusual or unique electrical appliances or equipment furnished by the user must have the approval of the appropriate building administrator.

22.  Furniture arrangement must be approved by the appropriate building administrator.

23.  Kitchen equipment must be operated by an authorized Food and Nutrition Department employee. The user will be billed for the labor cost, which shall be paid to the District rather than the employee.

24.  All regulations of the District governing the use of school facilities will be observed and are considered a part of the formal contract.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 8D; 276; 278.1(4); 279.8; 288; 297.9-.11 (2003).
  
                                    751 I.A.C. 14.
  
                                    1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 561.
  
                                    1940 Op. Att'y Gen. 232.
  
                                    1936 Op. Att'y Gen. 196.

Cross Reference: 704      Revenue

                                606.4  School Ceremonies and Observances

Approved:  11/01/2004

Reviewed:  06/15/2009, 09/20/2010, 11/18/2013, 06/15/2015, 12/19/2016, 12/21/2020, 03/20/2023

Revised:  06/15/2009, 11/18/2013, 12/19/2016, 03/20/2023

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 12:59

906.01E1 - Community Use of School District Facilities & Equipment – Categories

906.01E1 - Community Use of School District Facilities & Equipment – Categories

The following categories have been established for the purpose of determining rental fees:

Category I
School Sponsored Groups - Any organized group or organization directly connected with Independence Community Schools (student councils, school bands, choirs, drama presentations, student lectures, workshops, student art displays, athletic teams, etc.).  Must have a designated faculty member to supervise.

Category II
School Community Groups - (Booster Club, Music Boosters, PTO/Parent groups, Mustang Foundation, Mentors, and other groups) whose primary purpose is school related.  Fees may be charged on the basis of services rendered.

Category III
Community Non-Profit Groups - Community non-profit groups are defined as governmental agencies or groups (Scouts, P.A.C., 4-H, church groups, Lions Club, Rotary, parochial schools), primarily comprised of District residents providing civic, educational, cultural activities, plus all higher educational institutions.  Rent and service fees will be charged.

Category IV
Any private, non-district and/or profit-making group whose interests are limited primarily to the membership or for profit; e.g., for-profit businesses, vendors, entrepreneurs, commercial institutions, private agencies.  Rent and service fees will be charged.

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 13:04

906.02 - Tobacco/Nicotine-Free Environment

906.02 - Tobacco/Nicotine-Free Environment

TOBACCO/NICOTINE-FREE ENVIRONMENT

Tobacco and nicotine use, including the use of look alikes where the original would include the use of nicotine products that are not FDA (Federal Drug Administration) approved for tobacco cessation, is prohibited on school district facilities and grounds, including school vehicles.  This requirement extends to students, employees and visitors.  This policy applies at all times, including school-sponsored and nonschool-sponsored events.  Persons failing to abide by this request are required to extinguish their smoking material, dispose of the tobacco, nicotine or other product or leave the school district premises immediately.  It is the responsibility of the administration to enforce this policy.

 

 

 

Legal Reference:          20 U.S.C. 6083

                                    Iowa Code §§ 142D; 279.8, .9; 297.

 

Cross Reference:          502.9   Smoking - Drinking - Drugs

                                    904.4   Public Conduct on School Premises

                                    906.1   Community Use of School District Buildings & Sites & Equipment

 

 

Approved 11/01/2004                           Reviewed 04/19/2010                           Revised 09/15/2008

                                                                             06/15/2015                                          01/21/2013

                                                                             12/21/2020                                       09/16/2013

                                                                             11/15/2021                                       11/15/2021  

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 13:05

907 - District Operations During Public Emergencies and District Operations

907 - District Operations During Public Emergencies and District Operations

The district believes that student learning is the heart of its core mission.  While traditional in-person teaching continues to provide the greatest learning opportunity to all students, there may be rare and unusual circumstances that prevent the school community from convening in traditional in-person settings.  At times of a public emergency declared by federal, state or local officials, the district will seek guidance and recommendations from federal, state and local agencies to assist in determining the safety of convening traditional in-person learning. 

During a declared public emergency, the school board delegates to the superintendent the authority to determine whether to close school buildings to traditional in-person learning if the superintendent determines in-person learning would hinder the health and safety of the school community. The district will instead utilize remote or hybrid learning opportunities permitted by law.

Following guidance and recommendations from federal, state, and local agencies when reasonably possible, the administration will create regulations related to district operations during a public emergency, including, but not limited to, student, employee and visitor safety and security; the use and safeguarding of district property; public meetings and events, and when applicable, measures to prevent or slow the spread of infectious disease.

These measures will be enforced for the period of time of the public emergency, or until the superintendent, in consultation with federal, state and local agencies determine it is appropriate for the safety measures to end.

 

 

Legal Reference:  Senate File 2310
  
                                    Iowa Code ch. 279.8

Cross Reference:  403.3   Communicable Diseases - Employees
  
                                    506      Student Records
  
                                    507      Student Health and Well-Being

Approved 07/20/2020                           Reviewed 07/20/2020                           Revised                   
                                                                                            12/21/2020

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 13:06

907.R1 - District Operations During a Public Health Emergency Regulation

907.R1 - District Operations During a Public Health Emergency Regulation

During a public health emergency, the district will seek guidance and recommendations from federal, state and local agencies that monitor and respond to the emergency.  The district will follow any mandatory closures or other mandatory measures imposed by such agencies. 

The superintendent, in conjunction with relevant government agencies and/or athletic and activity associations, will determine under what circumstances the district will restrict or cancel in-person learning, student events or activities including sporting events, extracurricular clubs or meetings for students, and the use of district facilities by outside organizations. 

The district will promote and follow other recommended measures and guidance from federal, state and local agencies to the extent reasonably practicable under the circumstances.  These measures may include, but are not limited to the following:

On-line learning, hybrid models of learning, or modified in-person learning may occur dependent on the circumstances and in accordance with applicable law. 

Hand washing and any other recommended hygiene practices will be taught to all students and employees.

Non-medical-grade face masks are encouraged to be worn by all individuals on school grounds, including students, employees and volunteers.  Masks will be provided to individuals who request them.  Reusable masks should be washed regularly by individuals wearing them. 

Employees, volunteers and students are encouraged to monitor their temperatures each morning prior to traveling to any school building or event.  Individuals with a temperature over 100.3 degrees may not enter school buildings or attend school events.

Due to the increased cost to the district of providing additional cleaning and disinfecting measures, and in order to preserve cleaning supplies for school use during the time of a public health emergency, the superintendent has discretion to restrict the use of school buildings and facilities for non-school groups in a neutral and non-discriminatory manner. 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Thu, 02/18/2021 - 13:07