The Board's objective in the design, contents, and the delivery of the education program is to provide an equal opportunity for students to pursue an education free of discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, gender, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status, disability, age (except for permitting/prohibiting students to engage in certain activities), marital status or genetic information.

In providing the education program of the District, the Board will strive to meet its overall goal of providing the students an opportunity to develop a healthy social, intellectual, emotional, and physical self-concept in a learning environment that provides guidance and encourages critical thinking in students.

In striving to meet this overall goal, the objectives of the education program are to provide students with an opportunity to:

• Acquire basic skills in obtaining information, solving problems, thinking critically, and communicating effectively;
• Become effective and responsible contributors to the decision-making processes of the social and political institutions of the community, state, and nation;
• Acquire entry-level job skills and knowledge necessary for further education;
• Acquire the capacities for a satisfying and responsible role as family members;
• Acquire knowledge, habits, and attitudes that promote personal and public health, both physical and mental;
• Acquire an understanding of ethical principles and values and the ability to apply them to their own lives;
• Develop an understanding of their own worth, abilities, potential, and limitations; and,
• Learn and enjoy the process of learning and acquire the skills necessary for a lifetime of continuous learning and adaptation to change.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 11/20/2023

 

601

SCHOOL CALENDAR

 

The school calendar will accommodate the education program of the District.  The school calendar is for a minimum of one hundred eighty (180) days and include, but not be limited to, the days for student instruction, staff development, in-service days, and teacher conferences.

The academic school year for students is for a minimum of one hundred eighty (180) days or one thousand eighty (1080) hours in the school calendar.   Employees may be required to report to work at the school district prior to this date.

The Board may define the number of days Preschool will be held and the length of each school day for students attending Preschool.  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 five (5) days of instruction after the 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 District's graduation requirements.

It is 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 District's education program.

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 11/20/2023

REVISED: 02/19/2023 – APPROVED: 03/18/2024

The student school day for grades one through twelve will consist of hours set by the Board and will include the schedule of class instruction and class activities as established and sponsored by the 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 student school day will consist of a schedule as recommended by the Superintendent and/or designee and approved by the Board.

The minimum school day will meet the requirements as established for the operation of accredited schools.

It is the responsibility of the Superintendent to inform the Board annually of the length of the school day.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 11/20/2023

 

The student school day for grades one through twelve will consist of one of the following: (1) a minimum of one hundred eighty (180) days with each day having a minimum of six (6) hours of instruction or (2) one thousand eighty (1080) hours of instruction.  Instructional time is considered time during which the school or District is in session and students are under the guidance and instruction of the instructional professional staff.  Lunch periods will not be counted as part of instructional time.  Time during which students are released from school for parent/teacher conferences and passing time will be counted as part of instructional time.

If the District chooses a minimum one hundred eighty (180) day school year, the District may record a day of school with less than the minimum of six (6) hours of instruction if one of the following circumstances exists:

1. emergency health or safety factors request the late arrival or early dismissal of students on a specific day;
2. if the total hours of instructional time for grades one through twelve for any five (5) consecutive school days equals a minimum of thirty (30) hours, even though any one day of school is less than the minimum instructional hours because of a staff development opportunity provided for the professional instructional staff or because parent-teacher conferences have been scheduled beyond the regular school day; or
3. if the total hours of instructional time for grades one through twelve for the first four (4) consecutive days equal at least thirty (30) hours because parent-teacher conferences have been scheduled beyond the regular school day, the District may record zero (0) hours of instructional time on the fifth (5th) consecutive school day as a school day.

Schedule revisions and changes in time allotments will be made by the Superintendent.  The Board may amend the official school calendar when the Board considers the change to be in the best interests of the District’s educational program.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 – APPROVED 12/16/2019

REVIEWED: 12/18/2023

 

 

The Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee shall have the authority to close schools because of extreme weather or other emergency conditions for the length of time the conditions exist.  The Superintendent or the Superintendent’s designee shall make provisions to publicly announce such closings via available mass communication media as soon as possible after the decision to close.

Every reasonable effort shall be made to have students attend the total amount of school annually as specified by statute, state departmental rules, and Board policy.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 – APPROVED 12/16/2019

REVIEWED: 12/18/2023

 

 

Curriculum development is an ongoing process in the 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.

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 ensure the identified learnings are rigorous, challenging, and represent the most important learning 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 building principals are responsible for curriculum development 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 integration of local, state, and/or federal mandates (MCNS, school-to-work, etc.);
• 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.

It is the responsibility of the Superintendent to keep the Board apprised of necessary curriculum revisions and progress of each content area related to curriculum development activities.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 – APPROVED 12/16/2019

REVIEWED: 12/18/2023

 

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 and building principals are 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;
• 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.

It is the responsibility of the Superintendent to keep the Board apprised of curriculum implementation activities and the progress of each content area related to curriculum implementation activities.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 – APPROVED 12/16/2019

REVIEWED: 12/18/2023

 

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 District to evaluate 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 and building principals are 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/achievement;
• Identify roles and responsibilities of key groups;
• Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum evaluation; and
• Ensure participation of eligible students receiving special education services in District-wide assessments.

It is the responsibility of the Superintendent to keep the Board apprised of curriculum evaluation activities and the progress of each content area related to curriculum evaluation activities.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 – APPROVED: 12/19/2019

REVIEWED: 01/15/2024

 

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 United States 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 are 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 shall be in accordance with Board Instructional Materials Inspection policy.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 – APPROVED: 12/19/2019

REVIEWED: 01/15/2024

 

 

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

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in kindergarten is 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:

Grades one through six will include English-language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, health, human growth and development, physical education, traffic safety, music, character education, and visual art.

Grades seven and eight will include English-language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, health, human growth and development, family and consumer science, career, technology education, physical education, music, character education, and visual art.

Grades nine through twelve will include character education, English-language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, health, physical education, fine arts, foreign language, and vocational education.

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

Each instruction program is carefully planned for optimal benefit taking into consideration the financial condition of the 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.  In all instances, the basic instructional program shall meet or exceed the educational requirements established by the Iowa Department of Education and the law.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 – APPROVED: 12/19/2019

REVIEWED: 01/15/2024

 

 

Generally, only driver’s education instruction will be offered during summer school.  However, 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.  This decision is within the discretion of the Board.

Upon receiving a request for summer school, the Board will weigh the benefit to the students and the District as well as the District's budget and availability of licensed employees to conduct summer school.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 – APPROVED: 12/19/2019

REVIEWED: 01/15/2024

 

 

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 regular education setting to the maximum extent appropriate to the needs of each individual student.  Students requiring special education services shall be placed in the least restrictive environment possible appropriate to the needs of each individual student.  The appropriate education for each student is written in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

The district shall maintain policies and procedures to meet Least Restrictive Environment requirements, as specified in federal and state rules. To maximum extent appropriate, children and students with disabilities, shall be educated with children who are nondisabled; and special classes, separate schooling, or other removal of children and students with disabilities from the general education environment occurs only if the nature and severity of the disability is such that education in regular classes, with the use of supplementary aids and services, cannot be achieved satisfactorily.

Special education students are required to meet the requirements stated in Board policy or in their IEPs for graduation.  It is 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 two and children age three through five are provided comprehensive special education services within the public education system.  The 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 two.  This is done to ensure a smooth transition of children entitled to early childhood special education services.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 05/17/2021

REVIEWED: 02/19/2024

 

 

Students will have an equal opportunity for a quality education without discrimination, regardless of their race, creed, color, gender, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status, disability, age (except for permitting/prohibiting students to engage in certain activities), marital status or genetic information.

The education program is free of discrimination and provides an equal opportunity for the students.  The education program will foster knowledge of and respect and appreciation for the historical and contemporary contributions of diverse cultural groups, as well as men and women, to society.  Special emphasis is placed on Asian Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, American Indians, European Americans, and persons with disabilities.  It will also reflect the wide variety of roles open to both men and women and provide equal opportunity to both sexes.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 02/19/2024

 

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; communicable diseases, including sexually transmitted disease and acquired immune deficiency syndrome; and current health issues.  The purpose of the health education program is to help each student protect, improve, and maintain physical, emotional, and social well-being.

The instruction provided is 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.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 02/19/2024

 

Students in grades one through twelve are 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 has been exempted because of a conflict with the student's religious beliefs, provided the excuse complies with the requirements of federal and state law.  Parents of students requesting such an exemption should file a written request that shall include the basis for the request (i.e. verified health concerns and/or a religious conflict) and a proposed alternative activity or study acceptable to the Superintendent. The Superintendent and/or designee shall have the final authority to determine the alternative activity or study.

Students in grades 9-12 may also be excused from physical education courses if:

• the student is enrolled in academic courses not otherwise available or
• the student has obtained a physical education waiver for a semester because the student is actively involved in an athletic program.

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.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 02/19/2024

 

Preparing students for careers is one goal of the education program.  Career education will be written into the education program for grades pre-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 is 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.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 03/18/2024

 

The 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 is the responsibility of the Superintendent to ensure the study of religion in the District is 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.

Students who are allowed to be excluded from a program or activity which violates their religious beliefs shall be required to do an alternate supervised activity or study.  The Superintendent shall determine the alternate activity or study for that student.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 03/18/2024

 

Parents who wish to have their child excluded from a District 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 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, whether there is staff available to supervise a student who wishes to be excluded; whether there is space to house the student while the student is excluded; the availability of a Superintendent-approved alternative course of study or activity while the student is excluded; the number of students who wish to be excluded; whether allowing the exclusion places the District 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 are required to do an alternate supervised activity or study.  The Superintendent shall determine the alternate activity or study for that student.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 03/18/2024

 

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

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 03/18/2024

 

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 is the responsibility of the teacher to present a 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 is the responsibility of the teacher 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 is the responsibility of the teacher to refrain from advocating partisan causes, sectarian religious views or selfish propaganda of any kind through any classroom or District device; however, a teacher 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.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 04/15/2024

 

 

Because of our growing interdependence with other nations in the world, global education is incorporated into the education program for grades pre-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.  Global education, in the education program, focuses on the lifelong growth and understanding through the study and participation of the world community and the interdependency of its people and systems – social, cultural, racial, economic, linguistic, technological, and ecological.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 04/15/2024

 

 

Being a citizen of the United States, of Iowa, and of the 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 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 District community.  As part of this learning opportunity students are instructed in the elements of good citizenship and the role quality citizens play in their country, state, and District community.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 04/15/2024

 

 

The Board's primary responsibility in the management of the District is the operation and delivery of the regular education program.  Generally, students attending the 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 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.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 04/15/2024

 

 

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 is 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.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 05/20/2024

 

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 is 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.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 05/20/2024

 

 

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 shall 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 District.  Notice of the availability of the concurrent enrollment program shall be included in the District's registration handbook and the handbook shall identify which courses, if successfully completed, generate post-secondary credit.  Students shall not be charged tuition for concurrent enrollment courses and shall not be required to reimburse the 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 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 shall be the responsibility of the District for any contracted course that is used to meet District accreditation requirements.

Students who successfully complete a concurrent enrollment course, as determined by the postsecondary institution, shall 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 shall 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

Students in grades nine and ten who the District has identified as talented and gifted students and any students in grades eleven and twelve are eligible to take post-secondary educational courses.  Students are eligible to take post-secondary educational courses if they meet all of the requirements outlined in this policy and as required by the post-secondary educational institution and if the student has obtained the approval of the Superintendent and/or designee.  Eligible students wishing to participate in the post-secondary educational courses shall apply to the eligible post-secondary educational institution.

Students may not enroll in a post-secondary education course if the District offers a comparable course through its curricular program.  For purposes of this policy, comparable course is determined at the discretion of the administration and generally means that the content of a course provided to a high school student for post-secondary credit consists of substantially the same concepts and skills as the content of a course provided by the District.

Students in grades nine and ten who are in the talented and gifted program and all students in grades eleven and twelve who successfully complete courses at post-secondary educational institutions under an agreement between the District and the post-secondary educational institution or with the Board’s approval shall be reimbursed for tuition and other costs directly related to taking any post-secondary education course during the school year up to $250, except as otherwise outlined in this policy.  The District may, instead of reimbursing the student, directly pay the post-secondary educational institution.

Should a student fail any course at a post-secondary educational institution and fail to receive credit for any course at a post-secondary educational institution, the student over the age of eighteen or the parent of a student under the age of eighteen shall be responsible for the costs of the course. Prior to registering for any course at a post-secondary educational institution, students under age eighteen shall have a parent 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 for the course.  Students who fail a course and fail to receive credit for a course for reasons beyond their control, including, but not limited to, the student's incapacity, death in the family or a move to another school district, in the Board’s discretion, may not be responsible for the costs of the course.  Students dissatisfied with the Board's decision regarding the re-payment of the costs of the course may appeal to the area education agency for a waiver of reimbursement.

Students in grades nine and ten who are not in the talented and gifted program and students in grades eleven and twelve who take courses, other than courses taken under an agreement between the District and the post-secondary educational institution and/or approved by the Board, are responsible for tuition, transportation to and from the location where the course is being offered, and other costs directly related to taking any post-secondary education course.  The students and/or their parents shall not receive reimbursement for tuition, transportation or other expenses.  Students who take courses during the summer months when school is not in session are responsible for tuition, transportation to and from the location where the course is being offered, and other costs directly related to taking any post-secondary education course.

Eligible students may take up to seven semester hours of credit at a post-secondary educational institution during the summer months when school is not in session if the student pays for the courses.  Upon successful completion of these summer courses, the students will receive academic and/or vocational-technical credit toward the graduation requirements set out by the Board.

Successful completion of any course at a post-secondary educational institution is determined by the post-secondary educational institution.  The Board shall have complete discretion to determine the academic credit to be awarded to the student for the courses taken during the school year and for the courses taken during the summer.

The following factors are considered in the Board's determination of whether a student will receive academic and/or vocational-technical credit toward the graduation requirements set out by the Board for a course at a post-secondary educational institution:

• the course is taken from a public or accredited private post-secondary educational institution;
• a comparable course is not offered in the District;
• the course is in the discipline areas of mathematics, science, social   sciences, humanities, vocational-technical education or a course offered in the community college career options program;
• the course is a credit-bearing course that leads to a degree;
• the course is not religious or sectarian; and
• the course meets any other requirements set out by the Board.

All courses approved and paid for by the District, and those courses approved by the District and paid for by the student/family will:

1. Be recorded on the official student transcript, including the letter grade granted by the post-secondary educational institution or the pass-fail indication granted by the post-secondary educational institution.
2. Be included in figuring class rank, including valedictorian and salutatorian status, and GPA.
3. Be given graduation credit, as determined by the Board.  Typically, a three (3) or four (4) semester hour post-secondary course will be awarded one (1) graduation credit.

The Superintendent is responsible for annually notifying students and parents of the opportunity to take courses at post-secondary educational institutions in accordance with this policy.  The Superintendent will also be responsible for developing the appropriate forms and procedures for implementing this policy.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 05/20/2024

 

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 District.

High school students may earn credits to be applied toward graduation requirements by completing online courses offered through agencies approved by the Board.  Credit from an online or virtual 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 expelled 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 a virtual course shall complete prerequisites and provide teacher/counselor recommendations to confirm the student possesses the maturity level needed to function effectively in an online learning environment.  In addition, the express approval of the principal shall be obtained before a student enrolls in an online course.  The District must receive an official record of the final grade before credit toward graduation will be recognized.

Provided courses are part of the student’s regular school day coursework and within budgetary parameters, the costs for a virtual course, such as textbooks or school supplies, shall be borne by the District, for students enrolled full-time.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 05/20/2024

 

The Board recognizes that learning is a life-long process and supports the concept of community and adult education.  The physical facilities of the District shall be made available for use with any adult or community education programs when there is no conflict with regular District activities.  The facilities may be used day or night, including weekends, and during District vacations for such purposes.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 06/17/2024

 

 

The Board has sole discretion to approve instructional materials for the District.  This authority is delegated to licensed employees to determine which instructional materials, other than textbooks, will be utilized and purchased by the District.

The Board may appoint an ad hoc committee to make recommendations to the District’s licensed employees and administration concerning the selection of instructional materials.  The committee may be composed of District employees, parents, students, community members or representatives of community groups.

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 District as well as the changes and the trends in education and society.  It is the responsibility of the Superintendent to report to the Board the action taken by licensed employees.

In making its recommendations to the Superintendent, licensed employees will select materials which:

• support the educational philosophy, goals, and objectives of the District;
• consider the needs, age, and maturity of students;
• are within the District's budget;
• foster respect and appreciation for cultural diversity and difference of opinion;
• stimulate growth in factual knowledge and literary appreciation;
• encourage students to become decision-makers, to exercise freedom of thought, and to make independent judgment through the examination and evaluation of relevant information, evidence, and differing viewpoints;
• portray the variety of careers, roles, and lifestyles open to persons of both sexes; and,
• increase an awareness of the rights, duties, and responsibilities of each member of a multicultural society.

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 appoint licensed employees to assist in the selection of textbooks.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 06/17/2024

 

 

Parents and other members of the District community may view the instructional materials used by the students.  All instructional materials, including teacher's manuals, films, video and audio recordings 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. 

The instructional materials must be viewed on District premises.  Copies may be obtained according to Board policy.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 06/17/2024

 

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

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 06/17/2024

 

 

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 economic ways to utilize instructional television, audiovisual materials, computers, and other technological advances as a part of the curriculum.

It is 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.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 07/15/2024

The District shall maintain a school library in each educational center for use by employees and students during the school day.  Materials for the libraries shall be acquired according to Board Policy, “Instructional Materials Selection,” as well as other applicable Board Policies.  Materials purchased for school libraries shall be recommended for purchase by the professional personnel of the library, in consultation with administrative staff, instructional staff, and students.  It shall be the responsibility of the principal of the building in which the library is located to oversee the use and purchase of materials in the library.  It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent to develop procedures for the selection and replacement of library and instructional materials, for the acceptance of gifts, for the review of library and instructional materials, for the removal of obsolete materials, and for the handling of challenges to library and classroom materials.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 07/15/2024

The Board is committed to making available to students and staff members access to a wide range of electronic learning facilities, technology (including, but not limited to, computers, tablets, and hand held devices), equipment, software, network systems, and internet access.  The goal in providing this technology and access is to support the educational objectives and mission of the District and to promote resource sharing, innovation, problem solving, and communication.  The District’s technology, network, and/or internet access is not a public access service or a public forum.  The District has the right to place reasonable restrictions on the material accessed and/or posted through the use of its technology, network, and/or internet access, including the use of personal technology brought into the District by students and staff and the ability of students and staff to access the District’s network systems and internet access using personal technology.

The District’s technology, network systems, and internet access shall be available to all students and staff within the District.  However, access is a privilege, not a right.  Each student and staff member must have a signed acceptable use agreement on file prior to using the District’s technology, network systems, and internet access.  The amount of time and type of access available for each student and staff member may be limited by the District’s technology and the demands for the use of the District’s technology.  Even if students have not been given access to and/or use of the District’s technology, network systems, and the internet, they may still be exposed to information from the District’s technology, network systems, and/or the internet in guided curricular activities at the discretion of their teachers.

Every item of technology in the District having internet access shall not be operated unless internet access from the technology is subject to a technology protection measure (i.e. filtering software).  The technology protection measure employed by the District shall be designed and operated with the intent to ensure that students are not accessing inappropriate sites that have visual depictions that include obscenity, child pornography or are otherwise harmful to minors.  The technology protection measure may only be disabled for an adult’s use if such use is for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.

The technology coordinator may close a user account at any time as required and administrators, faculty, and staff may request the technology coordinator to deny, revoke or suspend user accounts.  Any user identified as a security risk or having a history of problems with appropriate use may be denied access to the District’s technology, the District’s network systems, and/or the District’s internet access.  Students and staff members will be instructed, at a minimum, on an annual basis by the District’s technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel on the appropriate use of the District’s technology, network systems, and internet access.

The use of the District’s technology, network systems, and internet access shall be for educational purposes only.  Students and staff members shall only engage in appropriate, ethical, and legal utilization of the District’s technology, network systems, and internet access.  Student and staff member use of the District’s technology, network systems, and internet access shall also comply with all District policies and regulations. 

The following rules provide guidance to students and staff for the appropriate use of the District’s technology, network systems, and internet access.  Inappropriate use and/or access will result in the restriction and/or termination of the privilege of access to and use of the District’s technology, network systems, and internet access and may result in further discipline for students up to and including expulsion and/or other legal action and may result in further discipline for staff members up to and including termination of employment and/or other legal action.  The District’s administration will determine what constitutes inappropriate use and their decision will be final.  Inappropriate use includes, but is not limited to:

• Making or disseminating offensive or harassing statements or using offensive or harassing language including disparagement of others based on age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status or familial status.
• Swearing or using vulgarities or any other inappropriate language.
• Failing to be polite and/or not following the same privacy, ethical, educational, and other considerations observed regarding other forms of communication.
• Accessing, creating or disseminating any material that is obscene, libelous, indecent, vulgar, profane or lewd; any material regarding products or services that are inappropriate for minors including products or services that the possession and/or use of by minors is prohibited by law; any material that constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses others; and/or any material that presents a clear and present likelihood that, either because of its content or the manner of distribution, 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 will cause the violation of lawful school regulations.
• Disseminating or soliciting sexually oriented messages or images.
• Transmitting personal credit card information or other personal identification information, including home addresses or telephone numbers from any District item of technology.
• Publishing personal or private information about yourself or others on the internet without prior written permission.
• Reposting a message that was sent to you privately without permission of the person who sent the message.  Any information regarding students should be limited to the student’s first name and the initial of the student’s last name only.
• Arranging or agreeing to meet in person with someone met online.
• Using the District’s technology, network systems, and/or internet access to participate in illegal activities, including but not limited to, gambling, fraud, and pornography.
• Creating and/or accessing personal social media accounts (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) without prior permission from the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel.  Accessing District-created, District-sponsored or District-related social media accounts to support the educational objectives and mission of the District is allowed as long as the individual’s conduct is in compliance with District policy.
• Using, possessing or attempting to make or distribute illegal/unauthorized copies of software or other digital media, including any software or other digital media that has been downloaded or copied or is otherwise in the user’s possession or is being used without the appropriate registration and/or license for the software or in violation of any applicable trademarks and/or copyrights, including the payment of any fees to the owner of the software or other digital media.
• Altering, modifying, corrupting or harming in any way the software stored on the District’s technology or network systems, including installing any software on District technology or on the District’s network systems or running any personal software from either floppy disk, CD-ROM, DVD, flash drives or other storage media or altering or modifying any data files stored on the District’s technology or network systems without prior permission and supervision from the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel.
• Downloading programs or files from the internet without prior permission from the District’s technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel.  Any programs or files downloaded from the internet shall be strictly limited only to those that the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel have approved for download.
• Using encryption software from any access point within the District.
• Accessing the internet from District technology using a non-District internet, e-mail or social network account.
• Sharing personal user account information with anyone or leaving your account open or unattended.
• Accessing the District’s technology or network systems or the District’s internet connection from a non-District owned technology without prior authorization from the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel.
• Using an instant messenger service or program, internet relay chat or other forms of direct electronic communication (i.e. Facebook, Twitter) or entering a chat room while using the District’s technology, network systems, and/or the District’s internet access.
• Disabling, circumventing or attempting to disable or circumvent filtering software.
• Playing non-educational games or running programs that are not related to the District’s educational program.
• Vandalizing the District’s technology or its network systems, including, but not limited to, any attempt to harm, modify, deface or destroy physical equipment or the functionality of the equipment or the network and any attempt to harm or destroy data stored on the District’s technology or network or the data of another user.  All users are expected to immediately report any problems or vandalism of technology equipment or network systems to the administration, the technology coordinator or the instructor responsible for the equipment or network.
• Committing or attempting to commit any act that disrupts the operation of the District’s technology or network systems or any network connected to the internet, including, but not limited to, the use or attempted use or possession of viruses or worms or participation in hacking or other unlawful/inappropriate activities on line.  Users must report any security breaches or system misuse to the administration or technology coordinator.
• Demonstrating any security or other network problems to other users; giving passwords to other users for any reason; and/or using another individual's account. 
• Attempting to log on to any device as a system administrator.
• Using the network in such a way to cause a disruption in the use of the network by other users or wasting system resources (e.g. listening to internet radio, printing web pages without prior permission from the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel, staying on the network longer than is necessary to obtain needed information).
• Using the District’s technology, network systems, and/or internet access for any commercial or for-profit purposes, personal or private business, (including but not limited to shopping or job searching), product advertisement or political lobbying.
• Using the District’s technology, network systems, and/or internet access, to download, transmit, and/or disseminate any material in violation of any federal or state law, copyrighted material, obscene material, hate literature, material protected by trade secret, viruses and/or worms, offensive material, spam e-mails, any threatening or harassing materials, and/or any material that will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities.  If a user encounters potentially inappropriate information, the user shall immediately terminate contact with such information and notify the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel of the contact with inappropriate information.
• Plagiarizing information accessed through the District’s technology, network systems, and/or the internet.  Students and staff shall obtain permission from appropriate parties prior to using copyrighted material that is accessed through the District’s technology, network systems, and/or the internet.

Although reasonable efforts will be made to make sure students will be under supervision while on the network, it is not possible to constantly monitor individual students and what they are accessing on the network.  Some students may encounter information that may not be of educational value and/or may be inappropriate.  If a student encounters such information, the student should terminate access to the information immediately and notify supervisory personnel or other appropriate personnel of what occurred.

Students will be able to access the District’s technology and network systems, including use of the internet, through their teachers and/or other appropriate supervisors.  Students will be allowed to use e-mail under very specific, limited educational circumstances.  If a student has an electronic mail address that has been set up outside of school, the student will not be permitted to access that e-mail account or use that address to send and receive mail at school.

Parents will be required to sign a permission form to allow their students to access the District’s technology, network systems, and the internet.  Students and staff members will sign a form acknowledging they have read and understand the District’s policies and regulations regarding appropriate use of the District’s technology and network systems, that they will comply with the policies and regulations, and understand the consequences for violation of the policy or regulations.  Prior to publishing any student work and/or pictures on the internet, the District will obtain written permission from the student’s parents to do so.

The District has the right, but not the duty, to monitor any and all aspects of its technology, network systems, and internet access including, but not limited to, monitoring sites students and staff visit on the internet and reviewing e-mail.  The administration and the technology coordinator shall have both the authority and right to examine all technology and internet activity including any logs, data, e-mail, storage and/or other technology related records of any user.  The use of e-mail is limited to District and educational purposes only.  Students and staff waive any right to privacy in anything they create, store, send, disseminate or receive on the District’s technology and network systems, including the internet.

No warranties, expressed or implied, are made by the District for the technology and internet access being provided.  Although the District has taken measures to implement and maintain protection against the presence of viruses, spyware, and malware on the District’s technology, network systems, and internet access, the District cannot and does not warranty or represent that the District’s technology, network systems or internet access will be secure and free of viruses, spyware or malware at all times.  The District, including its officers and employees, will not be responsible for any damages including, but not limited to, the loss of data, delays, non-deliveries, mis-deliveries or service interruptions caused by negligence or omission.  Individual users are solely responsible for making backup copies of their data.  The District is not responsible for the accuracy of information users access on the internet and is not responsible for any unauthorized charges students or staff members may incur as a result of their use of the District’s technology, network systems, and/or internet access.  Any risk and/or damages resulting from information obtained from the District’s technology, network systems, and/or internet access is assumed by and is the responsibility of the user.

Students, parents, and staff members may be asked from time to time to sign a new consent and/or acceptable use agreement to reflect changes and/or developments in the law or technology.  When students, parents, and staff members are presented with new consent and/or acceptable use agreements to sign, these agreements must be signed for students and/or staff to continue to have access to and use of the District’s technology, network systems, and the internet.

The interpretation, application, and modification of this policy are within the sole discretion of the District.  Any questions or issues regarding this policy should be directed to the Superintendent, any building principal or the technology coordinator.  The Board will review and update this policy as necessary.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 07/15/2024

The purpose of this policy is to provide a safe environment for students through the use of technology protection measures (i.e. filtering software) to enhance education in the District.

The internet is an ever expanding resource that adds large quantities of content on a daily basis. However, some of the content is inappropriate for student use and may even be harmful to students' health, safety and welfare.  Therefore, the District has determined that it will establish this policy to limit student access to certain undesirable topics, including but not limited to, information and images that are obscene, constitute child pornography or are otherwise harmful to minors.  Since it is not feasible for the District to continually monitor the content of the internet, the District employs technology protection measures in the form of internet filtering software in an attempt to block access to these types of harmful and inappropriate materials.

The District’s implementation of internet filtering software does not guarantee that students will be prevented from accessing materials that may be considered inappropriate and/or harmful.  However, it is a meaningful effort on the part of the District to prevent students from accessing inappropriate and/or harmful materials on the internet.  The District makes no guarantee that the filtering software will be available at all times or that the filtering software will block all inappropriate and/or harmful material.

If there is an accessible Uniform Resource Locator [URL] that may be inappropriate, students, staff, and parents may request a review by designated District personnel, by completing an Add URL to Blocked Status form.  Upon review, the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel will make a determination about blocking access to that site.  If there is an educationally valuable URL that is blocked, students, staff, and parents may fill out the Remove URL from Blocked Status grievance form.  The technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel will review the request and make a determination about unblocking the site.

Staff members may request that the internet filtering software be disabled for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.  A bona fide research form will need to be filled out and reviewed by the technology coordinator or other appropriate personnel before the internet filtering software is disabled.

 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 07/15/2024

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 confirms 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.

Employees are responsible for ensuring that their use of materials abides by the District’s copying procedures and is in accordance with the requirements of the law.  In no circumstances shall it be necessary for the District staff to violate copyright requirements in order to perform their duties properly.  The 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 District received permission to perform and/or publish a copyrighted work does not mean that others may copy it and/or replay it.  Parents or others who wish to record school activities should contact the employee in charge of the activity to determine what the process is to ensure the copyright law is followed.  The District will not be responsible for parents or others 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 District’s procedures or is permissible under the law should contact their building principal, teacher or media specialist who will also assist employees and students in obtaining proper authorization to copy or use protected material when such authorization is required.

 

 REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED:  12/16/2019

 REVIEWED: 08/19/2024

 

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

It is the responsibility of the Superintendent to make a recommendation to the Board on class size based upon the financial condition of the District, the qualifications of and number of licensed employees, and other factors deemed relevant to the Board.

 

 

 REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED:  12/16/2019

 REVIEWED: 08/19/2024

 

 

The 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 seasonal holidays, including seasonal holiday programs and performances.  Such ceremonies or observances shall have a secular purpose and will not advocate or sponsor a particular religion.

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.

 

 

 REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED:  12/16/2019

 REVIEWED: 08/19/2024

 

 

Materials and services produced by students at the expense of the District are to be the property of the District.  Materials and services produced by students at the student's expense, except for incidental expense to the District, are the property of the student.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to determine incidental expense.

 

 

 REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED:  12/16/2019

 REVIEWED: 08/19/2024

 

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

In authorizing field trips and excursions, the principal will consider the financial condition of the 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 Board's approval will be required for field trips and excursions outside the state and 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 to the principal along with the request for authorization of the field trip or excursion.  The 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. 

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 08/19/2024

 

The Board will provide a student guidance and counseling program.  The guidance counselor will be certified with the Iowa Department of Education 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 will involve licensed employees.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 08/19/2024

 

The District considers child exposure to adverse childhood experience, child mental health, and suicide as serious matters which impact learning opportunities for students, classroom, and instructional challenges for staff and ultimately, if not addressed, can lead to lifelong struggles, attempted suicide and loss of life. The District will follow the laws and regulations regarding the training required to inform staff of identification and referral to services for students with mental health challenges. 

The District shall provide suicide prevention and postvention training and training on the identification of adverse childhood experiences and strategies to mitigate toxic stress response for all District personnel who hold a license, certificate, authorization or statement of recognition issued by the board of educational examiners and who have regular contact with students in kindergarten through grade twelve. The training shall begin July 1, 2019, and occur annually between July 1 and June 30, thereafter.  The content of the training shall be based on nationally recognized best practices.

Adverse childhood experience means a potentially traumatic event occurring in childhood that can have negative, lasting effects on an individual’s health and well-being.

Postvention means the provision of crisis intervention, support, and assistance for those affected by a suicide or suicide attempt to prevent further risk of suicide.

The suicide prevention and postvention training shall be evidence-based, evidence-supported and be at least one hour in length.  The content of the training shall be based on nationally recognized best practices.

The identification of adverse childhood experiences and strategies to mitigate toxic stress response training shall be evidence-based, evidence-supported, and be at least one hour in length or as determined by the Superintendent. The content of the training shall be based on nationally recognized best practices.

 

REVIEWED: 11/18/2019 - APPROVED 12/03/2019

REVIEWED: 08/19/2024