The Iowa City Community School District shall provide educational programs and activities that challenge each student with a rigorous and creative curriculum taught by a diverse, professional, caring staff strengthened by collaborative partnerships with families and the entire community.
The programs and activities will not discriminate against any student because of race, creed, color, gender, national origin, religion, marital status,, sexual orientation, disability or economic status in its educational programs or activities. The district will provide a multicultural, nonsexist curriculum which increases the awareness and understanding of the characteristics of all students by addressing their academic, intellectual, social, emotional needs, and cultural and educational background.
Legal Reference: Code of Iowa: 256.11
Date of Adoption: November 11, 1980
Revised: February 12, 1986
June 9, 1992
February 25, 1997
Children between the ages of six and sixteen who are residents of this school district must attend school, when is session, if they are of proper physical and mental condition. In lieu of attendance in one of the district’s public schools, a child may attend an accredited non-public school, or they may be schooled at home or in a non-accredited school.
If the instruction is provided in a non-public, DPI-accredited school, the Board will consider the program as meeting the compulsory education requirements.
The parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian who teaches a child at home or who places a child in a non-accredited school shall furnish the school district a report in duplicate by the first day of school. The report shall state the name and age of the child, the period of time during which the child has been or will be under competent private instruction for the year, an outline of the course of study, texts used, and the name and address of the instructor. The outline of a course of study shall include subjects covered, lesson plans, and time spent on the areas of study.
Such instruction shall be considered competent private instruction when it is instruction provided on a daily basis for at least one hundred forty-eight days during the school year, to be met by attendance for at least thirty-seven days of each school quarter, by or under the supervision of a licensed practitioner.
If private instruction is provided by a non-licensed person the parent, guardian, or legal custodian shall meet the following requirements:
1. File the same report required for student attending a non-accredited school.
2. Ensure that the child is evaluated annually to determine whether the child is making adequate progress. "Adequate progress", in all grade levels, means test scores which are above the thirtieth percentile, nationally normed, in each of the areas of reading, mathematics, and language arts, and which indicate either that the child has made six months progress from the previous test results or that the child is at or above grade level for the child’s age. For children in grade levels six and above, "adequate progress" must also be achieved in both science and social studies.
3. File an annual report of the child’s annual evaluation with the school district of residence and to the Department of Education by a date not later than June 30 of each year the child is under private instruction.
In the event a child of compulsory attendance age, over age six and under age 16, does not attend public school or an accredited nonpublic school, the child must receive competent private instruction. The Iowa City Community School District recognizes its responsibility to provide the necessary reporting forms, dual enrollment opportunities and testing assistance in accordance with Iowa Code Section 281A.10, Chapter 10.
Parents of students receiving Competent Private Instruction are required to report to the school district in accordance with Iowa Code Section 281A.10, Chapter 31.
Legal Reference: Code of Iowa Chapter 299, 279.10
Date of Adoption: February 9, 1982
Revised: June 9, 1992
Code of Iowa 282.3, Section 2 and 139.9, will be followed without exception for all residents of the Iowa City Community School District. The conditions of admission for residents of the Iowa City Community School District are:
1. Any child must be five years of age on or before September 15 of the current school year to be admitted to kindergarten.
2. Any child must be six years of age on or before September 15 of the current school year to be admitted to first grade (except as provided in Board Policy 501.2a and Administrative Regulation 501.2a, Advanced Placement of Kindergarten Age Children).
3. Student must present proper evidence of adequate immunization unless exempted according to State law 139.9.
Any child must meet the appropriate age for their grade level on or before September 15 of the current year to be admitted into that grade. Children who qualify or qualified for advanced placement under Board Policy 501.2a and Administrative Regulation 502.1a are exempted from age requirements for their grade level.
Legal Reference: Code of Iowa 139.9, 282.3, Section 2
Date of Adoption: August 1979
Revised: February 12, 1986
June 9, 1992
July 11, 1995
February 25, 1997
Code of Iowa 282.3, Section 2, allows pupils of kindergarten age who demonstrate the ability to profit by first grade work to be admitted to the first grade prior to December 31. To receive consideration for advanced placement in Iowa City, the following procedures will be observed:
1. Referral to the principal by parent or teacher for consideration.
2. The child shall have completed at least three weeks in kindergarten. Any shortening of this time will need to be approved by the superintendent or designee.
3. The Gifted Education Coordinator, the kindergarten teacher, the first grade teacher, the Language Arts staff, Math staff, and the principal will review the child’s academic and social behavior.
4. The testing, observation, and social history may be completed by designated Iowa City Community School District staff members.
5. A conference will be held with the above school personnel and the parents to share information and reach a decision on the appropriate placement of the child.
Date of Adoption: August 1979
Revised: September 1980
February 12, 1986
June 9, 1992
October 28, 1997
Resident Students
Students who are residents of the Iowa City Community School District may attend an Iowa City Community School District school without paying tuition. A resident is defined as a person who is physically present in a district, whose residence has not been established in another district by operation of law, and who meets any of the following conditions:
1. Is in the district for the purpose of making a home and not solely for school purposes.
2. Meets the definitional requirements of the term "homeless individual" under 42 U.S.C. § 11302(a) and (c).
3. Lives in a residential correctional facility in the district.
Further, emancipated minors or individuals who have reached the age of majority and who are still eligible to attend an Iowa secondary school may declare their residence independent of the residence of the parents.
Each case involving the bona fide residence of a student will be decided upon its individual merits by the superintendent or designee.
Non-Resident Students
Students who are not residents but wish to attend school in the district may do so on a space available basis either through the provisions found in legislation and Department of Education rules governing open enrollment or by paying tuition. Tuition shall be the per pupil cost of the district as calculated annually by the Secretary of the Board and as authorized by the Iowa Department of Education.
Per federal law, students in grades K - 8 may not enroll in school under an educational visa (I-20 form). Students in grades nine though twelve not residing with a parent or legal guardian who request approval to enroll in the district under the provisions of an educational visa (I-20 form) must:
a. provide evidence of English proficiency,
b. attend school for the purpose of earning credits toward completion
of a high school diploma,
c. pay tuition in full before enrolling,
d. not attend school for more than twelve months. Attendance
prior to November 30, 1996 will not count against the twelve month limit.
Foreign Exchange Students
For purposes of this policy, a foreign exchange student is a non-resident, nonimmigrant aliens who is participating in a State Department-approved exchange program.
In the interest of cultural exchange, the Board will waive tuition for a maximum of one year for foreign exchange students. City and West High Schools will each accept a maximum of ten foreign exchange students per school year. Nonimmigrant, foreign students desiring to remain more than one year shall be assessed the full non-resident tuition for school attendance in the district payable in full before enrolling beyond one year .
Date of Adoption: May 26, 1987
Revised: June 9, 1992
August 9, 1994
March 11, 1997
Attendance areas and boundaries for each school within the school district shall be established upon recommendation of the superintendent and approved by the Board of Directors. The recommendation of the superintendent shall be made based on a study of program needs, the actual and potential enrollment of the district and the enrollment capacities of each school building.
Students are encouraged to attend their assigned school. However, it is recognized that the needs of the given student may be better served in a school outside the student’s local school attendance boundary.
Students may attend a school other than their assigned attendance center provided that:
1. the parent/guardian applies for an indistrict transfer,
2. transportation is provided by the parents or guardians involved,
3. acknowledgment of request is in writing from the principals of the sending and requested schools and the superintendent or designee grants approval,
4. the transfer can be accommodated within the building’s capacity and established class and grade size,
5. Junior high schools and high schools are open to transfers and excluded from the capacity constraints in number 4.
6. Iowa High School Athletic Association, Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union and Iowa City Community School District rules and regulations on interscholastic competition are observed,
7. the transfer does not place the district in violation of any rules, regulations, and guidelines of state and federal agencies.
8. the student does not experience excessive tardiness or absenteeism as defined in the attendance policy for any reason including transportation problems. Excessive tardiness or absenteeism may be reason to revoke the transfer.
9. secondary students may transfer only during 5 days following the start of any academic period, except at the alternative school.
10. students may only transfer 3 times during their 7th-12th grade experience.
11. elementary students may transfer only twice in one school year.
Once a transfer has been approved, the student will be entitled to full rights and privileges provided resident students. However, Iowa City Community School District student athletes who transfer within the district are subject to eligibility restrictions. A request to return to the school in the attendance area where the parents or guardians reside must be approved by the principals of the sending and requested schools and the superintendent or designee.
Students attending a school experiencing boundary changes will be considered first. A parent or guardian of students affected by the boundary change or previously-accepted transfer students may apply for a transfer by a designated date. After students who live in the designated attendance area are accommodated following the boundary change, the following priorities for determining transfer students shall be used:
Priority 1 - all 5th grade students currently attending the school,
Priority 2 - all K-4 grade students currently attending the school,
Priority 3 - students living in an area designated for future annexation,
Priority 4 - all other students who apply for a transfer.
Students who are siblings of those who have transferred are not guaranteed that a request to transfer will be approved. Requests for siblings to transfer will be processed in the same manner as other transfer requests.
Transfers are approved for only one year, but may be renewed.
When a student transfer is initiated by a principal, such transfer shall be made with the consent of the parents/guardians and/or student if of legal age, the requested school's principal, and the superintendent or designee.
Date of Adoption: March 29, 1978
Revised: April 24, 1979
March 18, 1986
June 9, 1992
December 14, 1993
August 8, 1995
September 23, 1997
The Board of Directors encourages regular and punctual attendance on the part of students to optimize learning. Parents can assist by minimizing excused absences.
Students enrolled in the Iowa City Community School District are required to be in regular attendance for an instructional period of 180 days between July 1 and the succeeding June 30.
Any child who has reached the age of six (6) and is under sixteen (16) years of age by September 15, in proper physical and mental condition to attend school, who fails to attend school or classes regularly without reasonable excuse for absence, as provided by the Code of Iowa, shall be deemed to be truant.
Students truant from school shall be subject to disciplinary sanctions. (See corresponding administrative regulations for discipline guidelines.) Compulsory attendance statutes place the responsibility with parents/guardian/legal or actual custodian to cause a child to attend school during the time school is in session. Violation of this responsibility may require referral to the County Attorney by appropriate school personnel.
Legal Reference: Sections 274.1, 279.8, 299.8 Code of Iowa 1977 as amended
Date of Adoption: February 12, 1986
Revised: February 8, 1994
May 26, 1998
A responsibility of the school district is to help students develop self-discipline. A student’s behavior should not disrupt the educational process, interfere with a safe and orderly school environment, or constitute a threat to the health or safety of others. The district will discipline students equitably according to the seriousness of the student's misconduct and will insure all students are afforded their due process rights.
In so doing, the district will protect all students' rights in a manner that will not discriminate against them by virtue of race, creed, color, religion, disability, national origin, gender, marital status, or sexual orientation.
Legal Reference: Code of Iowa 279.9, 282.4, 708.7, 708.10, 724.41, 724.4b, 808a
Date of Adoption: June 23, 1987
Revised: September 11, 1990
June 9, 1992
April 8, 1997
The students, faculty, and staff of the Iowa City Community School District have the right to attend schools and school activities that are safe. Parents have a right to expect that the schools and the activities to which they send their children are safe. Schools and patrons cannot be safe if a student brings, possesses or uses an instrument as a dangerous weapon. The Iowa City Community School District has zero tolerance for unauthorized dangerous weapons possession in school district facilities, on school district premises, on property within the jurisdiction of the school district, or at school district activities. Thus, any student who possesses, buys, sells, uses, or threatens to use a dangerous weapon shall be guilty of misconduct and shall be subject to discipline up to and including expulsion. In addition, any student who illegally possesses, buys, sells, uses or threatens to use a dangerous weapon off school premises may be subject to disciplinary action where safety considerations are at issue.
Students bringing a firearm to school shall be expelled for not less than twelve months. The superintendent shall have the authority to recommend this expulsion requirement be modified for a student on a case-by-case basis. For purposes of this portion of this policy, the term "firearm" includes any weapon which is designed to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such weapon, a muffler or silencer for such a weapon, or any explosive, incendiary or poison gas. [Legal Reference: Goals 2000: Educate America Act, Pub. L. No. 103-227, 108 Stat. 125 (1994)]
Dangerous weapons or any instrument used as a weapon shall be taken from students and others who bring them onto the school district property or onto property within the jurisdiction of the school district or from students who are within the control of the school district.
Definition of dangerous weapons:
"A "dangerous weapon" is any instrument or device designed primarily for use in inflicting death or injury upon a human being or animal, and which is capable of inflicting death upon a human being when used in the manner for which it was designed. Additionally, any instrument or device of any sort whatsoever which is actually used in such a manner as to indicate that the defendant intends to inflict death or serious injury upon the other, and which, when so used, is capable of inflicting death upon a human being, is a dangerous weapon. Dangerous weapons include, but are not limited to, any offensive weapon, pistol, revolver, or other firearm, dagger, razor, stiletto, switchblade knife, or knife having a blade exceeding five inches in length." (Iowa Code Section 702.7)
In addition to the definition set forth above, dangerous weapons, or any instrument used as a weapon in the schools, includes any object used to intimidate, coerce, scare, or threaten a student, school district employee or visitor. Dangerous weapons therefore include, but are not limited to, clubs, nunchakus, brass knuckles, knives, butterfly knives, stun guns, BB guns, toy guns used or displayed as a real gun, and unloaded guns.
The Board believes dangerous weapons on school district premises, in school district facilities or at school district sponsored functions causes 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 or within the jurisdiction of the school district.
Parents/guardians of students found to possess an unauthorized dangerous weapon or any instrument used as a weapon on school property shall be notified of the incident. Confiscation of weapons shall be reported to the police, and the student will be subject to disciplinary action.
Weapons under the control of law enforcement employees shall be exempt from this policy. The principal may authorize other persons to display dangerous weapons for educational purposes. Such a display shall also be exempt from this policy.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: McClain v. Lafayette County Bd. of Education, 673 F.2d 106 (5th Cir. 1982) Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993) Iowa Code § 702.7 (1993) Goals 2000: Educate America Act, Pub. L. No. 103-227, 108 Stat. 125 (1994)
Adopted: 3/29/94
Revised: 10/25/94
10/28/97
The Board of Directors may, by majority vote, expel any student from school for a violation of the rules and regulations that have been approved by the Board, or when the presence of the student is detrimental to the best interests of the school. It shall be the duty of the superintendent, after a thorough investigation, to make a recommendation regarding expulsion to the Board of Directors.
Only the Board may remove a student from the school environment. The removal of a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, is an expulsion from school.
Students may be expelled for violations of Board Policy, school rules or the law. It shall be within the discretion of the Board to discipline a student by using an expulsion for a single offense or for a series of offenses depending on the nature of the offense and the circumstances surrounding the offense.
It shall be within the discretion of the Superintendent to recommend to the Board the expulsion of a student for disciplinary purposes. Only the Board may take action to expel a student and to readmit the student. The principal shall keep records of expulsions in addition to the Board’s records.
When a student is recommended for expulsion by the Board, the student shall be provided with:
Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion;
The names of the witnesses and an oral or written report on the facts
to which each witness testifies unless the witnesses are students whose
names may be released at the discretion of the Superintendent;
An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide
either oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student’s
behalf;
The right to be represented by counsel;
The results and finding of the Board in writing open to the student’s
inspection; and,
The length of the expulsion, time and conditions necessary for consideration
of readmission will be listed.
In addition to these procedures, a special education student must be provided with additional procedures. A determination should be made of whether the student is actually guilty of the misconduct. A staffing team should determine whether the student’s behavior is caused by the student’s disability or whether the conduct is the result of inappropriate placement. Discussions and conclusions of this meeting should be recorded.
If the special education student’s conduct is not caused by the disability, the student may be expelled or suspended for a long-term period following written notice to the parent and pursuant to the school district’s expulsion hearing procedures. If the misconduct is caused by the disability and a change in placement is recommended, the change must be made pursuant to the placement procedures used by the school district.
When a student has been expelled by the Board of Directors, readmission may be sought in the following manner:
1. The student and/or the student’s parents/guardian may request a hearing before the Board of Directors to present an application for readmission to school.
2. In the application for readmission, the student and/or the student’s parents/guardian must present evidence supporting the application for readmission.
3. The Board of Directors will hear the evidence supporting the application for readmission of the student. A favorable majority vote by a quorum of the Board of Directors will readmit the student seeking readmission.
Legal Reference: Code of Iowa, Chapters 282.4, 282.5 Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975) Wood v. Strickland, 420 U.S. 308 (1975) Southeast Warren Comm. School District v. Dept. of Public Instruction, 285 N.W.2d 173 (Iowa 1979) Iowa Code (( 21.5; 282.3, .4, .5 (1997). 281 I.A.C. 12.3 (8)
Revised: June 9, 1992
Any student shall have the right to file a formal complaint alleging misinterpretation and/or misapplication of school or school district rules or regulations, students may also file a grievance alleging noncompliance with Federal and/or State equal education/opportunity laws. The grievant will have the right to representation at any or all steps of the grievance procedure.
Date of Adoption: May 8, 1979
Revised: June 9, 1992
April 28, 1998
The Board of Directors of the Iowa City Community School District recognizes the need to cooperate with outside agencies in the performance of their duties or in dispensing career information. Guidelines shall be established for investigative agencies which provide for maximum protection of the individual with minimum interruption of school classes and activities.
Date of Adoption: May 8, 1979
Revised: June 9, 1992
May 13, 1997
An accurate record shall be maintained for all students attending the Iowa City Community School District. Records of a student shall be accessible to parents/guardian or to the student if eighteen(18) years of age or older. Records may be made available to students who are less than eighteen or to parents of students who are over eighteen if appropriate approvals are received and it appears to be in the best interest of the student. Student records shall remain confidential.
Date of Adoption: May 8, 1979
Revised: June 9, 1992
The Iowa City Community School District shares with the community the responsibility to provide an optimal school environment for the intellectual, emotional and physical development of its students. The district recognizes that substance abuse contributes to destructive behavior and negative health consequences. A caring environment with clearly defined expectations regarding the district’s response to substance use and abuse is essential. Therefore, the Iowa City Community School District affirmatively joins family and community efforts in providing necessary information, skills, role models, incentives and experiences which discourage alcohol, tobacco, and other drug abuse.
The goal of the district shall be to establish drug and alcohol free schools in order to maintain a safe and effective learning environment for all students. To meet this goal, the district supports a comprehensive program of education, prevention, intervention and support services which include the following components:
1. Drug abuse prevention education and the promotion of wise choices
and personal responsibility concerning individual health.
2. A school-based Student Assistance Team to promote personal responsibility
and to provide early identification and intervention in student drug or
alcohol use/abuse.
3. A supportive and caring school environment for students who have
been involved with drugs and/or alcohol as well as those whose families
are disrupted by chemical abuse.
4. The prohibition of or immediate association with distribution, dispensing,
manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of beer, wine,
alcohol, tobacco, psycho-active and/or other controlled substances, paraphernalia
or equipment associated with these substances and/or "look alike" substances
that appear to be any of the above substances in or on the Iowa City Community
School District or at any school-sponsored activity.
Students who violate the terms of this policy may:
1. Be required to demonstrate satisfactory participation in a substance abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved by the superintendent or his/her designee
2. Be suspended
3. Be referred to the Student Assistance Team
4. Be referred to the local police department
5. Be required to comply with alternative courses of action which are selected and agreed to by the student, parents/guardians, and the school.
6. Be expelled.
Legal Reference: Code of Iowa 279.9
Date of Adoption: June 28, 1988
Revised: June 9, 1992
July 11, 1995
May 13, 1997
The Iowa City Community School District believes that the presence of gangs and gang activities can cause a substantial disruption of or material interference with school and school activities. A "gang" as defined in this policy and under Code of Iowa 723A means any ongoing organization, association, or group of three or more persons which has an identifiable name or identifying sign or symbol, having as one of its primary activities the commission of criminal acts, and whose members individually or collectively engage in or have engaged in a pattern of criminal gang activity.
To prohibit the existence of gangs and gang activities, the Board of Directors adopts the following policy:
No student on or about school property, or at any school activity, shall use any speech or commit any act or omission in furtherance of any gang or gang activity, including, but not limited to:
1. Soliciting others for members in a gang or gangs;
2. Requesting any person pay for "protection" or engaging in other conduct that intimidates or threatens any person;
3. Committing any illegal act or violation of school district policies;
4. Inciting or otherwise encouraging a student, or other students, to act with physical violence upon another person;
5. Wearing, possessing, using, distributing, displaying or selling any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign or other thing that is intended to show or otherwise evidence membership in or affiliation with any gang;
6. Committing any act or omission, or using any speech, either verbal or nonverbal (gestures, handshakes, etc.), that is intended to show membership or affiliation in a gang.
Due Process
Students are entitled to due process even when discipline sanctions are necessary. The due process available to students include: 1. Oral or written notice of the allegation(s) against the student. 2. An explanation of the evidence behind the allegation(s). 3. The opportunity for the student to respond to the allegation(s). Infractions involving special education students should be governed by special education rules (reference Code of Iowa and Department of Education regulations).
A student grievance procedure (Administrative Regulation 502.3) has been established whereby any complaint in regard to misinterpretation and/or misapplication of a school or school district rule or regulation and/or noncompliance with federal and/or state education/opportunity laws may be handled.
Sanctions for Misconduct
A. Latitude Maintained:
Determination of precisely what sanction should be imposed for each infraction shall be made by school personnel. The range of available disciplinary measures and sanctions include:
1. Warning
2. Cancellation of special privileges
3. Referral for counseling/staffing evaluation
4. Detention
5. Confined study
6. Reassigned to another class
7. Confiscation of unapproved items
8. Parent/teacher conference
9. Payment of damages
10. Work option
11. In-school restriction
12. Suspension
13. Expulsion
14. Notification of law enforcement authorities
B. Student Suspension Procedure
Excluding a student from school is a serious sanction. Therefore, suspensions should be used only when it is likely or necessary to achieve desired discipline goals. The following rules governing suspension are designed with that seriousness in mind:
1. Students may be suspended by the principal for five (5) days or less for violation of school regulations or policies or when the presence of the student is detrimental to the best interests of the school.
2. Suspensions extending for a period of more than five (5) days must be approved by the superintendent or designee.
3. Prior to suspension, the due process requirements outlined above must be met.
4. Parents shall be notified that suspension and the reason(s) therefore. Such reason(s) shall be reduced to writing and a copy sent to parents. A copy of the letter shall also be sent to the superintendent and one placed in the student cumulative folder.
5. The principal shall make a reasonable but concerted effort to hold a conference with the parent before or at the time the student returns to school.
6. The principal shall inform the student of the opportunity to appeal a decision by means of Board Policy 502.3--Grievance Procedure.
Legal Reference: Code of Iowa 723A
Date of Adoption: July 9, 1996
Secondary school curriculum-related student organizations may use school facilities for meetings.
It shall be the responsibility of the secondary school principals to determine whether organizations support the educational program.
Secondary school student-initiated, non-curriculum-related groups, upon receiving permission from the principal, may use school facilities for group meetings during non-instructional time.
Non-instructional time is defined as any time before the first period in the day and after the last period of the day in which any student attends class. Meetings shall not interfere with the orderly conduct of the educational program or other school district operations. It shall be within the discretion of the building principal to determine if such an interference exists. Activities relating to and part of the educational program shall have priority over the activities of any other organization.
School district personnel will be assigned to monitor approved student organization meetings. School district personnel shall not participate in the meeting or encourage attendance for student-initiated, non-curriculum-related groups. Non-school persons cannot direct, conduct, or regularly attend activities or meetings of non-curriculum-related, student-initiated groups. Students may attend and participate in meetings of these groups, but such attendance shall be strictly voluntary and student-initiated.
Student-initiated, non-curriculum-related groups will not use the school name, school mascot name, school district name, or any name or emblem that might imply school district sponsorship. The use of school equipment for organizations that are not curriculum related will be subject to the discretion of the building principal.
Legal Reference: Board of Education of Westside Community Schools v. Mergens (US June 4, 1990). Bender v. Williamsport Area Community School District, 741 F. 2d 538 (3d Circ. 1984), vacated and remanded on other grounds, 106 S. Ct. 1326 (1986). 20 U.S.C.a. §§4071 et seq. (1989). Iowa Code §§ 287.1 - .3, 297.9 (1989)
Cross Reference: Board Policy 1003.1
Approved: June 9, 1992
Revised: March 11, 1997
School publications are vital and necessary tools of education to be utilized in teaching students the purposes and functions of mass media in a democratic society. The implications and provisions of the First Amendment to the Constitution regarding freedom of the press and speech are inherent in these purposes and functions.
An editorial board composed of participating students under the supervision of the publication’s adviser(s) shall be responsible for the content of official student publications. The editorial board shall be guided by the Iowa Code and by ethical standards adopted by professional associations or societies of journalism. Journalism advisers shall supervise the editorial board and student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and to comply with Iowa law including the restrictions against unlawful speech in Iowa Code section 280.22.
Official school publications shall be free from prior restraints by school officials except as provided by law.
Student expression in official school publications is not an expression of school policy. Public school districts and employees or officials are not liable in any civil or criminal action for any student expression made or published by students, unless the school employees or officials have interfered with or altered the content of the student’s speech or expression, and then only to the extent of the interference or alteration of that speech or expression.
Legal Reference Iowa Code 280.22 (1991)
Approved: May 22, 1979
Revised: October 29, 1991
June 9, 1992
April 22, 1997
A student government may be organized in any school within the framework of guidelines adopted by the principal and faculty representatives.
The basic assumption regarding student government shall be to provide a channel of communication between students, staff, and administration of the school while providing the basis for experience in dealing with the operational aspects of a democratic government.
Approved: May 22, 1979
Revised: April 8, 1997
Students are encouraged to participate in interscholastic activities such as music, speech, debate, athletics and/or other contests or events approved by the administration.
Legal Reference: Code of Iowa, Chapter 280.14
Approved: May 22, 1979
Revised: June 9, 1992
October 14, 1997
The Iowa City Community School District shall provide interscholastic athletic programs for interested students in grades 7-12. Separate teams for males and females will be provided except for those sports recognized as co-ed by the Iowa High School Athletic Association and the Iowa Girls’ High School Athletic Union.
In circumstances where there is not a parallel sport for one of the genders, an exception to the separate teams for males and females may be approved. In making the judgment, primary consideration shall be given to the potential impact such an exception would have on other team members and the integrity of the sport. If an exception is made, the athlete involved will be allowed participation to the level possible based on the athlete’s ability in the sport without jeopardizing the team’s good standing in the Iowa High School Athletic Association and/or the Iowa Girls’ High School Athletic Union, the Mississippi Valley Conference, and with scheduled opponents.
A student who participates in a school-sponsored sport may also participate in that same sport in that same season in a non-school sponsored setting with prior written approval from his/her principal and athletic director. Such outside participation should not conflict with the school-sponsored athletic activity. A student who participates in a sport in violation of this subrule shall be ineligible to participate on a school-sponsored team in that sport for 12 calendar months starting the date of the declaration of the ineligibility.
Approved: November 25, 1986
Revised: June 9, 1992
September 23, 1997
October 14, 1997
The Board of Directors recognizes that junior high athletics can make a significant contribution to the growth and development of an early adolescent’s character and physical well-being. Further, the Board recognizes that the emphasis of the junior high athletic program must be to provide:
1. an opportunity for all interested students to participate in the
sports offered;
2. a supportive structure for participants with varying levels of skill
to seek personal satisfaction, group and peer approval;
3. instruction that may increase proficiency in skills; and
4. limited competition.
Approved: January 15, 1985
Revised: June 9, 1992
October 28, 1997
As student representatives of the Iowa City Community School District, participants in extra-curricular activities are expected to follow the district policies for student conduct, including the behavioral guidelines specified in Board Policy and Administrative Regulation 502.1 on student discipline and 502.6 on alcohol and other drug use/abuse. The Student Activity Conduct code designates expectations for students who participate in extra-curricular activities. The code specifies:
1. Academic Eligibility
2. School Attendance
3. Substance Use/Abuse as defined in Policy 502.6
4. Transfer Students
5. Due Process Procedures
6. Appeals, and
7. Additional Guidelines.
The activity director, coach or sponsor, and the administration will determine additional guidelines, expectations, consequences, and support plans related to student behavioral issues not included in this code. The extra-curricular activities included for review within the Student Activity Conduct code include athletics, music, ensembles, debate, speech, cheerleading, pom pon squads, drama, academic decathlon, and other school sponsored performances and/or competitions. Student performances and/or competitions which contribute to a grade in an academic class are not included in this activity conduct code.
The Board of Directors delegates authority to the district's administration to develop rules and regulations concerning the levels of conduct required of students who participate in extra-curricular activities.
Date of Adoption: June 8, 1993
Revised: July 11, 1995
October 14, 1997
The Board of Directors of the Iowa City Community School District recognizes a limited need for student fundraising campaigns designed to support the educational program as defined in Board Policy 503.1. All student fundraising campaigns and sales contracts must be approved by the principal or designee.
Fundraising activities which involve elementary aged students engaging in door to door sales campaigns on behalf of any school related or school sponsored group will not be approved or sanctioned. The use of promotional incentives for elementary students is prohibited.
Approved: May 22, 1979
Revised: June 9, 1992
March 11, 1997
It is the parents'/guardians' responsibility to notify school personnel of any ongoing or chronic health problems of their children at the beginning of the year or as they occur during the year. If special procedures are needed to meet the child's special health needs during the school year, the health services staff will write guidelines for these procedures within a month of identifying the health needs. Ideally these plans should have input from parents, medical personnel and school personnel.
If training is needed for school personnel to perform the procedures, the health services directors will write or obtain step-by-step directions. These directions will be followed when health services staff train identified personnel and when the procedures are performed.
Written guidelines should be updated at least annually. Written permission from parent/guardian must be obtained for these procedures physicians should give written orders when warranted.
Legal Reference: 281 IAC 41.23(281)
Approved: August 24, 1993
Revised: November 25, 1997
Students who become ill or injured at school will be provided care in accordance with accepted first aid practices and administrative procedures. If a student must take any medication during school hours, written authorization and instructions must be provided. Personal injury accidents involving students shall be reported to parent/guardian and the superintendent or designee.
Approved: June 12, 1979
Revised: June 9, 1992
June 10, 1997
Communicable disease is an infectious or contagious disease spread from person-to-person or animal-to-person, or as otherwise defined by the Iowa Department of Public Health.
Parents should be advised to notify the school whenever their child has a communicable disease.
Students with a communicable disease will be allowed to attend school as long as they are physically able to perform the tasks assigned to them and as long as their attendance does not create a substantial risk of transmission of the disease to the students or staff.
The determination of whether a student will be excluded from school shall be made on a case by case basis relying on the best available scientific evidence and medical advice.
The decision as to the appropriate educational setting will be made by the superintendent or designee following discussion with the student's physician, parent/guardian, a public health official and the health services director.
Communicable disease references that will serve as a baseline for district decisions include, but are not limited to current editions of:
1. The Control of Communicable Diseases Manual; American Public Health Association.
2. The Red Book - Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases; American Academy of Pediatrics.
Approved: June 12, 1979 Legal Reference:
Revised: April 15, 1986 Code of Iowa Chapter 282.4, 282.5
June 9, 1992
March 11, 1997
Extensive research has shown that Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the virus which causes Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), is not spread through casual everyday contact, such as occurs in the school setting. Therefore, students diagnosed as having AIDS or being infected with HIV will be allowed to attend classes in an unrestricted educational setting. Decisions about any changes in the educational program of a student who is infected with HIV/AIDS shall be made on a case-by-case basis, relying on the best available scientific evidence and medical advice.
The decision as to the appropriate educational setting will be made by the superintendent or designee following discussion with the student’s physician, parent/guardian, a public health official, and the health services director. If a conflict arises as to the appropriate educational setting for the child, a local committee consisting of a medical expert recommended by the Health Services Advisory Committee, and a representative of the school district appointed by the superintendent, and a representative of the infected child appointed by the parent/guardian will review the situation to determine the appropriate educational setting.
Information about a student’s HIV/AIDS status will be treated as confidential. This Disclosure will be made only with written consent of the infected student and/or parent/guardian. All medical information and written documentation of discussions, telephone conversations, proceedings, and meetings shall be kept by the superintendent in a locked file.
No prescreening or testing for the purpose of detecting HIV infection will be conducted by the ICCSD. Admission, enrollment, or continued attendance of any student will not be conditioned on providing proof that the student is free from HIV infection.
All schools shall follow the Standard Precautions guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control for handling body fluids. All school personnel shall receive instruction in the proper handling, treatment, and disposal of body fluids. The procedure shall be followed for all students regardless of HIV/AIDS status.
An ongoing educational program using current age appropriate information about HIV/AIDS will be provided all students.
The superintendent/designee shall serve as a spokesperson for the district and is a liaison to the community regarding the district’s policies on HIV/AIDS.
Approved: April 25, 1990
Revised: June 9, 1992
June 7, 1995
June 10, 1997
The herpes simplex virus and cytomegalovirus are ubiquitous agents infecting most of the population. Under ordinary circumstances students infected are able to attend school. Under special circumstances when secretions cannot be adequately controlled an alternative educational setting will be provided. If a conflict arises as to the appropriate educational setting for the child, a local committee consisting of a medical expert appointed by the Health Services Advisory Committee, a representative of the school district appointed by the superintendent, and a representative of the ailing child appointed by the parent/guardian will review the situation to determine the appropriate educational setting.
Approved: April 15, 1986
Revised: June 9, 1992
Any certified or licensed employee of the Iowa City Community School District who has reason to believe that any child under the age of eighteen has been abused by a person responsible for the care of the child as defined by law, shall report the suspected abuse directly to the Department of Human Services (DHS) within twenty-four hours. In instances of suspected sexual abuse or prostitution involving a child aged twelve or younger, reports shall be made to DHS regardless of whether the suspected perpetrator is responsible for the care of the child. A written report using the forms provided by the Department of Human Services shall be sent within forty-eight hours. The reporting by non-certified or non-licensed employees of suspected abuse of children is encouraged but not mandated. The failure on the part of an employee who is a mandatory reporter to make a report as required by law may subject the employee to disciplinary sanctions up to and including discharge. Failure to report suspected child abuse may also result in a simple misdemeanor and civil liability for damages.
Within one month of initial employment, the Iowa City Community School District shall provide for all new employees who are mandatory reporters, the legal requirements of child abuse reporting. Within six months of employment the school district shall provide for them the two hours of training required by law in identification and reporting of child abuse. Every five years, as required by law, the school district will provide further two-hour training sessions.
The Iowa City Community School District administration and personnel will cooperate fully with the Department of Human Services personnel in conducting a child abuse investigation, by providing confidential access to the child named in the report and to other children who may have relevant information for the purpose of interviews. The Iowa City Community School District recognizes no obligation to contact the parents or guardians of a child suspected to be a victim of child abuse except when the alleged perpetrator is someone other than the parent or guardian.
Legal References: Iowa Code 232.68, 232.69, 232.70, 232.71(6)
Approved: January 8, 1991
Revised: June 9, 1992
November 25, 1997
Employees of the Iowa City Community School District who commit acts of physical abuse including inappropriate and intentional sexual behavior toward students are subject to disciplinary sanctions up to and including discharge.
Allegations of abuse of students by school employees shall result in a prompt investigation made in a prudent manner. Complaints or allegations will be processed confidentially to the maximum extent possible. All employees are required to assist in the investigation when requested, by providing information and by maintaining the confidentiality of the reporting and investigating process.
The Iowa City Community School District has appointed a level-one investigator(s) and alternate(s), and has arranged for or contracted with a trained, experienced professional to serve as the level-two investigator. The level-one investigator(s) and alternate(s) are trained to conduct an investigation at the expense of the Iowa City Community School District.
The superintendent or designee shall prescribe rules in accordance with the rules adopted by the state Board of Education to carry out this policy
Legal References: Iowa Code (280.17; 281 Iowa Administrative Code 102
Approved: April 25, 1990
Revised: January 8, 1991
June 9, 1992
November 25, 1997
In accordance with the Iowa Code there shall be emergency and safety drills. The administrator in charge of each building shall have jurisdiction over the building for drills. The administrator will make emergency decisions as to when the building must be evacuated, and when students are to seek protection areas. It is the responsibility of the administrator to notify the Superintendent or designee of any emergency decisions.
Plans for emergencies shall be developed which will include safety rules and emergency procedures for staff, students and patrons to follow in each type of drill.
Date of Adoption: March 18, 1969 Legal Reference: Code of Iowa
Revised: June 12, 1979 Chapter 100.31
April 11, 1989
March 10, 1992
May 23, 1995
April 22, 1997
The school district shall require safety devices including protective eye, ear, face, and head equipment (safety glass, goggles, respirators, helmets, and other devices) which are applicable and suitable for the purpose intended.
No unprotected person including students, staff, and visitors, shall knowingly be subjected to a hazardous environmental condition. Instructions and training in the care and use of protective equipment shall be provided by the staff.
Legal Reference: Code of Iowa, Chapters 280.10 and 280.11
Date of Adoption: June 12, 1979
Revised: June 9, 1992
June 9, 1998
When seat belts are part of the equipment on the vehicle being used for transportation, students shall be required to use seat belts for all school-sponsored trips.
Date of Adoption: January 11, 1983
Revised: June 9, 1992
September 23, 1997
Requests from parents to release students during the school day for private lessons must be submitted to the principal for consideration and decision. Principals shall recommend to parents that private lessons be scheduled after school hours on regular or early release school days, during study hall or unstructured time, or on weekends.
Date of Adoption: June 12, 1979
Revised: June 9, 1992
May 26, 1998
The Board of Directors believes that an essential part of an athletic program is for the athlete to be in the best possible physical condition.
To help achieve this goal, it is the responsibility of the superintendent or designee to develop, implement, and enforce training rules and regulations for junior and senior high school athletes.
Date of Adoption: December 14, 1977
Revised: June 12, 1979
June 9, 1992
October 14, 1997
It shall be within the sole discretion of the Board to determine the district’s student capacity. Annually, the superintendent or designee shall complete a study of each school’s capacities and projected enrollments.
The district maintains the right to assign all students to a specific school or program. Class size and space for special education students, as established by Department of Education rules, will be followed.
Legal References: Code of Iowa 280.3
Date of Adoption: October 10, 1989
Revised: June 9, 1992
October 28, 1997
The Iowa City Community School District shall participate in Open Enrollment as required by state law based on district capacity.
The determination of sufficient space to accommodate open enrollment students IN to the district shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Criteria to be used by the district in its determination may include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. The relationship between effective building capacity and projected
enrollments;
2. The financial resources of the school district;
3. The qualifications and number of certificated personnel;
4. Other factors deemed relevant to the situation.
The determination to approve open enrollment students OUT of the district shall be reviewed on a case by case basis. Criteria to be used by the district in its determination may include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Timelines set by the state are met.
2. Approved open enrollment OUT students do not negatively affect the
district racial balance.
Legal References: Code of Iowa 282.18 Ia Administrative Code 281.7
Date of Adoption: October 10, 1989
Revised: June 9, 1992
November 25, 1997
The Iowa City Community School District recognizes that while certain fees charged students are appropriate and authorized, certain students and their families are not financially able to pay the fees. The school district will grant either full waivers, partial waivers or temporary waivers depending upon the circumstances and the parents' or guardians' ability to meet the financial criteria.
Date of Adoption: August 13, 1996