Code No. 501.1
RESIDENT STUDENTS
Children who are residents of the school district community will attend the school district without paying tuition.
The residence of a student means the place, abode, or dwelling of the student. Generally, the legal dwelling of minors is the same as their parents. However, a student may establish a dwelling with someone other than the parents and attend public school in the school district without paying tuition if the primary purpose for residing in the school district is not for the purpose of obtaining a free public education. Further, emancipated minors or students 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.
Legal Reference: Lakota Cons. Ind. School v. Buffalo Center-Rake Comm. Schools, 334 N.W.2d 704 (Iowa 1983).
Mt. Hope School District v. Hendrickson, 197 N.W. 47 (Iowa 1924).
Oshel v. Creston Community School District, DPI Admin. Doc. 570 (1981).
33 D.P.I. Dec. Rule 80 (1984).
Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4 (1993).
1956 Op. Att'y Gen. 185.
1946 Op. Att'y Gen. 197.
1938 Op. Att'y Gen. 69.
1930 Op. Att'y Gen. 147.
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 10/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school but who are not legal residents of the Morning Sun Community School District may be admitted into the school district at the discretion of the superintendent upon application and payment of tuition. The tuition rate shall be the current per-pupil cost of the school district as computed by the Board Secretary and authorized by the Iowa Department of Education.
Resident students whose families move from the school district after the start of a semester and who wish to complete the semester in their former resident school district will be permitted to attend. Students who plan to open enroll to their former nonresident district for the next school year may do so without approval of the board.
Students in grades 11 or 12 who are no longer residents of the school district, but were residents in the preceding school year, may continue to attend school until they graduate without the payment of tuition. The students must have an adult, who resides in the school district, identified for purposes of administration.
Nonresident students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school and who have evidence that they will become legal residents of the school district prior to the third Friday in September may be allowed to attend without the payment of tuition.
Legal Reference: Lakota Consolidated Ind. School v. Buffalo Center-Rake Comm. School,
334 N.W.2d 704 (Iowa 1983).
Mt. Hope School Dist. v. Hendrickson, 197 N.W. 47 (Iowa 1924).
Oshel v. Creston Comm. School Dist., DPI Admin. Doc. 570 (1981).
Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.1, .2, .6, .7, .24 (1993).
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
Approved: 8/23/94
Reviewed: 10/14/96; 11/9/99; 10/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/20
Revised: 5/11/23
Parents within the school district who have children over age six and under age sixteen by September 15, in proper physical and mental condition to attend school, shall have the children attend the school district at the attendance center designated by the board. Students shall attend school the number of days or hours school is in session in accordance with the school calendar. Students not attending the minimum days or hours must be exempted by this policy as listed below or referred to the county attorney. Exceptions to this policy include children who:
have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or have obtained a high school equivalency diploma;
are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
are attending an approved or probationally approved private college preparatory school;
are attending an accredited non-public school; or,
are receiving independent private instruction; or,
are receiving competent private instruction
It is the responsibility of the parent of a child to provide evidence of the child's mental and physical inability to attend school or of the child's qualifications for one of the exceptions listed above.
The principal will investigate the cause for a student’s truancy. If the principal is unable to secure the truant student’s attendance, the principal should discuss the next step with the school board or its representative. If, after school board or school board representative action, the student is still truant, the principal will refer the matter over to the county attorney.
The school will participate in mediation if requested by the county attorney. The superintendent will represent the school district in mediation. The school district will monitor the student’s compliance with the mediation agreement and will report violations of the mediation agreement to the county attorney.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 259A; 279.10-.11; 299.1-.1A; 299A (1993).
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
601.1 School Calendar
604.1 Competent Private Instruction
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/2020 Revised 08/10/98; 12/8/2020
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Children in the school district community will be allowed to enroll in the school district's regular education program beginning at age five. The child must be age five on or prior to September 15 to participate in the school district's kindergarten program. The child must be age six on or prior to September 15 to begin the first grade of the education program.
Before the student may enroll in the district’s eduation program, the board shall require evidence of age and residency in the form of a birth certificate or other evidence of age. It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to determine what is satisfactory evidence for proof of age.
Prior to enrollment, the child must provide the administration with their health and immunization certificate. Failure to provide this information within the time period set by the superintendent shall be reason for suspension, expulsion, or denying admission to the student expelling the student.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 282.1, .3, .6 (1993).
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 10/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/2020 Revised: 12/8/2020
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 501.5
ATTENDANCE CENTER ASSIGNMENT
The board will have complete discretion to determine the boundaries for each attendance center, to assign students to the attendance centers.
Parents or guardians of siblings in the same grade level academically in grades kindergarten through grade five may request the siblings be placed in the same or different classrooms. In order to be valid, the request must be made in writing and submitted to the school principal at the time of registration for classes, or within fourteen days after the children’s first day of attendance during the school year. If a valid request is received by the school principal, the request must be honored. While a parent or guardian may make a placement request that siblings be placed together or apart, the district administration retains complete discretion to select the classroom teacher(s) to which siblings are assigned. If after the initial grading period following the placement of siblings in the same or different classrooms the school principal determines the placement is disruptive to the class; the principal may assign one or more of the siblings to different classrooms.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board annually regarding the assigned attendance center for each student. In making the recommendation, the superintendent will consider the geographical layout of the school district, the condition and location of the school district facilities, the location of student population, possible transportation challenges, financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the superintendent or the board.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.11; 282.7-.8.
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
Approved Reviewed Revised
Code No. 501.06
STUDENT TRANSFERS IN
Students who transfer into the school district must meet the immunization and age requirements set out for students who initially enroll in the school district.
The student must provide the school district with proof of grade level and a copy of the student's permanent records from the student's prior school district. If the student does not present the student's cumulative records, the school district shall request the student's cumulative records from the previous school district and shall notify the student's parents that the school district has requested the records.
If the student cannot offer proof of grade level, the superintendent will make the grade level determination. The superintendent may require testing or other information to determine the grade level.
The superintendent shall determine the amount of credits to be transferred. If the student has not previously attended an accredited school, it is within the superintendent's discretion to accept or reject credits or grades.
The board may deny admission if the student is not willing to provide the board with the necessary information.
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232g (1988).
Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 282.1, .3; 299A (1993).
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
505.3 Student Honors and Awards
507 Student Health and Well-Being
604.1 Competent Private Instruction
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 10/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 501.07
STUDENT TRANSFERS OUT OR WITHDRAWALS
If the student's parents wish to withdraw or transfer the student from school prior to completing and graduating from the education program, they shall notify the superintendent in writing as soon as possible of the decision to withdraw or transfer the student from the education program. The student or parent should present this written notice at the office and receive instructions regarding the return of textbooks, library books, locker equipment, hot lunch tickets, etc.
The notice shall state the student's final day of attendance. If the student is not enrolling in another school district, the school district shall maintain the student's records in the same manner as the records of students who have graduated from the school district.
If the parent wishes to have the student's cumulative record sent to the new school district, the parents shall notify the superintendent in writing. This notice shall include the name of the school district and the person at the new school district to whom the student's cumulative records should be sent. If the new school district requests the student's cumulative records, the school district may forward the cumulative records without parental notification.
If the student is of compulsory education age and not transferring to another public school district or an accredited non-public school, the parents shall notify the superintendent that the student is receiving competent private instruction and file the necessary competent private instruction reports.
Legal Reference: 20 US.C. § 1232g (1988).
Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 299.1-.1A (1993). 299A.11
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
506 Student Records
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 10/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 501.08
STUDENT ATTENDANCE RECORDS
As part of the school district's records, the daily attendance of each student shall be recorded and maintained on file with the permanent records of the board secretary.
It shall be the responsibility of the principals to ensure that such reports are filed with the board secretary, the custodian of school records.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).
Cross Reference: 501.3 Compulsory Attendance
506 Student Records
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/99; 10/09/99; 10/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 501.09
STUDENT ABSENCES - EXCUSED
Regular attendance by students is essential for students to obtain the maximum opportunities from the education program. Parents and students alike are encouraged to ensure an absence from school is a necessary absence. Students shall attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center.
Student absences approved by the principal shall be excused absences. Excused absences shall count as days in attendance for purposes of the truancy law. These absences include, but are not limited to, illness, family emergencies, recognized religious observances, and school-sponsored or approved activities.
Students whose absences are approved shall make up the work missed and receive full credit for the missed school work. It shall be the responsibility of the student to initiate a procedure with the student's teacher to complete the work missed.
Students who wish to participate in school-sponsored activities must attend school the day of the activity unless permission has been given by the principal for the student to be absent.
It shall be the responsibility of the parent to notify the student's attendance center as soon as the parent knows the student will not be attending school on that day. The superintendent may request evidence or written verification of the student's reason for absence.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).
Cross Reference: 501.3 Compulsory Attendance
503 Student Discipline
504 Student Activities
506 Student Records
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 10/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 501.10
TRUANCY - UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
Regular attendance by the students at school is essential for students to obtain the maximum opportunities from the education program. Parents and students alike are encouraged to ensure an absence from school is a necessary absence. Students shall attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center.
Truancy is the failure to attend school for the minimum number of days established in the school calendar by the board. Truancy is the act of being absent without a reasonable excuse. These absences shall include, but not be limited to, tardiness, shopping, hunting, concerts, preparation or participation in parties and other celebrations and employment. Truancy will not be tolerated by the board.
Students are subject to disciplinary action for truancy. It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to determine, in light of the circumstances, whether a student may make up work missed because of truancy.
The superintendent shall investigate the cause for a student's truancy. If the superintendent is unable to secure the truant student's attendance, the superintendent should discuss the next step with the school board. If after school board action, the student is still truant, the superintendent shall refer the matter over to the county attorney.
The school will participate in mediation if requested by the county attorney. The superintendent shall represent the school district in mediation. The school district will monitor the student's compliance with the mediation agreement and will report violations of the mediation agreement to the county attorney.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy. The administrative regulations shall indicate the disciplinary action to be taken for truancy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).
Cross Reference: 501.3 Compulsory Attendance
503 Student Discipline
504 Student Activities
506 Student Records
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 10/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 501.11
STUDENT RELEASE DURING SCHOOL HOURS
Students will be allowed to leave the school district facilities during school hours only with prior authorization from their parents, unless the parent appears personally at the student's attendance center to arrange for the release of the student during school hours, or with the permission of the principal.
Approved reasons for release of a student during the school day shall include, but not be limited to, illness, family emergencies, medical appointments, religious instruction, classes outside the student's attendance center, employment for which the student has been issued a work permit, and other reasons determined appropriate by the principal.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 294.4 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
503 Student Discipline
504 Student Activities
506 Student Records
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 10/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 501.12
PREGNANT STUDENTS
The board encourages pregnant students to continue to attend the education program as long as they are physically able to do so. The pregnant student may notify the principal or the guidance counselor as soon as she is aware of the pregnancy. The school may require that a pregnant student provide the principal with a written note from her doctor relative to special conditions that might exist and specific suggestions as to how long the student may continue to attend classes. If the student is unable to attend school because of her pregnancy, the student may be excused and arrangements made to continue her studies during her absence. The student will resume classes upon the recommendation of her physician.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 216; 279.8; 280.3 (2013).
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
604.2 Individualized Instruction
Approved Reviewed Revised
Code No. 501.13
STUDENTS OF LEGAL AGE
Students who have attained legal age may continue the education program without payment of tuition as long as they are eligible to attend an Iowa public school and are residents of the school district.
Parents will be allowed to access and view the student's records without written permission from the student if the student is still a dependent for tax purposes. In most cases, with the discretion of the principal or the superintendent, the student will be able to make decisions and sign documents rather than requiring parental permission or signature.
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232g (2012).
Iowa Code §§ 22; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4; 599.1; 622.10 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
506 Student Records
Approved Reviewed Revised
501.14 OPEN ENROLLMENT TRANSFERS - PROCEDURES AS THE SENDING DISTRICT
The Morning Sun Community School District will participate in open enrollment as a sending district. As a sending district, the board will allow resident students, who meet the requirements, to open enroll to another public school district.
Parents requesting open enrollment out of the school district for their student shall notify the sending and receiving school districts in accordance with district practice. The notice shall be made on forms provided by the Department of Education. The forms are available at the central administration office.
Parents of children who will begin kindergarten and prekindergarten children enrolled in special education programs and included in the district’s basic enrollment shall file in the same manner set forth above.
The receiving district will approve or deny open enrollment requests according to the timelines established by law. The parents may withdraw the open enrollment request board’s approval of the application. The receiving district's superintendent will notify the parents and sending school district by mail within five days of the school district's action to approve or deny the open enrollment request.
The board will not approve a student's request to allow the receiving district to enter the school district for purposes of transportation.
An open enrollment request out of the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The determining factor for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the receiving school district is appropriate for the student's needs. The area education agency director of special education serving the receiving district will determine whether the program is appropriate. The special education student will remain in the school district until the final determination is made.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to maintain open enrollment request applications and notice forms. It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop appropriate office procedures and administrative regulations necessary for open enrollment requests.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code 139A.8; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
506 Student Records
Approved: 8/17/1995
Reviewed: 11/13/2003; 02/14/2008; 1/12/12; 10/11/2017
Revised: 11/13/2003; 12/08/2005; 7/14/21; 7/11/22
501.15 OPEN ENROLLMENT TRANSFERS - PROCEDURES AS A RECEIVING DISTRICT
The Wapello Community School District will participate in open enrollment as a receiving district. As a receiving district, the board will allow nonresident students, who meet the legal requirements, to open enroll into the school district. The board shall have complete discretion to determine the attendance center of the students attending the school district under open enrollment.
The superintendent will approve within 30 days incoming kindergarten applications; good cause application; or continuation of an educational program application. The superintendent shall notify the sending school district and parents within five days of the school district's action to approve or deny the open enrollment request.
Open enrollment requests into the school district will not be approved if insufficient classroom space exists. Open enrollment requests into the school district will also not be approved for students who have been suspended or expelled by the administration or the board of the school district the student is or was attending until the student has been reinstated into the school district from which the student was suspended or expelled. Once the student is reinstated, the student's open enrollment request will be considered in the same manner as other open enrollment requests provided the required timelines are met.
Open enrollment requests into the school district that, if denied, would result in students from the same nuclear family being enrolled in different school districts, will be given highest priority. The board, in its discretion, may waive the insufficient classroom space reason for denial for students of the same nuclear family to prevent the division of a nuclear family between two school districts. Other open enrollment requests into the school district are considered in the order received by the school district with the first open enrollment request given a higher priority than the second open enrollment request and so forth.
Students in grades nine through twelve open enrolling into the school district will not be eligible for participation in interscholastic athletics, at the varsity level, only in accordance with applicable laws.
Parents of students whose open enrollment requests are approved by the board or superintendent are responsible for providing transportation to and from the receiving school district without reimbursement unless the parents qualify for transportation assistance. The board will not approve transportation into the sending school district.
An open enrollment request into the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The determining factors for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the school district is appropriate for the student's needs and whether the enrollment of the special education student will cause the class size to exceed the maximum allowed. The area education agency director of special education serving the school district will determine whether the program is appropriate. The special education student shall remain in the sending district until a final determination is made. For children requiring special education, the receiving district will complete and provide to the resident district the documentation needed to seek Medicaid reimbursement for eligible services.
The policies of the school district shall apply to students attending the school district under open enrollment.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop appropriate office procedures and administrative regulations necessary for open enrollment requests.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code 139A.8; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1
281 I.A.C. 17.
Cross Reference: 501.6 Student Transfers In
501.7 Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals
501.14 Open Enrollment Transfers--Procedures as a Sending District
507 Student Health and Well-Being
606.6 Insufficient Classroom Space
Approved: 8/17/1995
Reviewed: 11/13/2003; 02/14/2008; 1/12/12; 10/11/2017
Revised: 11/13/2003; 12/08/2005; 7/14/21; 7/11/22
Code No. 501.16
HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTH
The board shall make reasonable efforts to identify homeless children and youth of school age within the district, encourage their enrollment and eliminate existing barriers to their receiving education which may exist in district policies or practices. The designated coordinators for identification of homeless children and for tracking and monitoring programs and activities for these children is the Guidance Counselor.
Legal Reference: No Child Left Behind, Title X, Sec. 772 P.L. 107-110 (2002)
42 U.S.C. § 11431 et seq. (1988).
281 I.A.C. 33. (2005)
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
503.3 Fines - Fees - Charges
506.1 Student Records Access
507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates
603.3 Special Education
711.1 Student School Transportation Eligibility
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 10/10/05; 10/13/10; 10/21/15; 10/13/2020 Revised 01/13/03; 8/8/05
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 502.1
STUDENT APPEARANCE
The board believes inappropriate student appearance causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, and visitors on school property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district.
Students are expected to adhere to standards of cleanliness and dress that are compatible with the requirement of a good school environment. The standards will be those generally acceptable to the community as appropriate in a formal school setting.
The board expects students to be clean and well groomed and wear clothes in good repair and appropriate for the time, place, and purpose intended. Clothing or other apparel promoting products illegal for use by minors; clothing displaying obscene material, profanity, or reference to subversion; and hats, are disallowed. While the primary responsibility for appearance lies with the students and their parents, appearance disruptive to the education program will not be tolerated. When, in the judgment of a principal, a student's appearance or mode of dress disrupts the educational process, or constitutes a threat to health or safety, the student may be required to make modifications.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
Bethal School District No. 403 v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
Tinker v. Des Moines Ind. Comm. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969).
Bystrom v. Fridley High School, Independent School District No. 14, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
Torvik v. Decorah Community School, 453 F.2d 779 (8th Cir. 1972).
Turley v. Adel Community School District, 322 F.Supp. 402 (S.D. Iowa 1971).
Sims v. Colfax Comm. School Dist., 307 F.Supp. 485 (Iowa 1970).
Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/14/05; 11/10/10; 11/10/15; 11/10/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 502.2
CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY/VANDALISM
Students shall treat school district property with the care and the respect they would treat their own property. Students found to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school district property may be required to reimburse the school district. They may be subject to discipline under board policy and the school district rules and regulations. They may also be turned over to local law enforcement authorities.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative rules regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8; 282.4, .5; 613.16 (1993).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/14/05; 11/10/10; 11/10/15; 11/10/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
502.03 STUDENT EXPRESSION AND STUDENT PUBLICATIONS
Student Expression
It is the goal of the district to protect the educational environment for all students to help ensure it is free from substantial disruption or infringement upon their rights. Student expression should be appropriate to help ensure that the students learn and meet the goals of the school activity and that the potential audience is not exposed to material that may be harmful or inappropriate for their level of maturity.
While students will generally be allowed to express their viewpoints and opinions, in certain qualifying circumstances, student speech may require administrative regulation to help ensure the safety and welfare of the school community. The district may regulate speech that: causes or is reasonably anticipated to cause a material and substantial disruption to the education environment; infringes upon the rights of others; is obscene or lewd; is school sponsored; and/or promotes illegal activity. The administration, when making this judgment, will consider whether the activity in which the expression was made is school-sponsored and whether review or prohibition of the students' speech furthers an educational purpose. The expression must be done in a reasonable time, place, and manner that is not disruptive to the orderly and efficient operation of the school district.
The superintendent may develop procedures for safely addressing qualifying types of mass protests by students, including walk-ins and walk-outs. Walk-ins occur when students leave their learning environments during school hours and gather in a group or groups with the purpose of promoting a belief or beliefs. Walk-outs occur when students leave their learning environments during school hours and gather in a group or groups off district property with the purpose of promoting a belief or beliefs.
The superintendent is encouraged to obtain feedback from community stakeholders in the development of these procedures. The goal of the procedures shall be to address student safety, maintain the educational environment, and promote communication during demonstrations while remaining viewpoint neutral.
Students who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary measures. Employees shall be responsible for helping to ensure insuring students' expression is in keeping with this policy. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Student Publications
Students may produce official school publications as part of the curriculum under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the principal. Official school publications include material produced in journalism, newspaper, yearbook, or writing classes and distributed to the student body either free or for a fee.
Any expression made by students, including student expression in official school publications, is not an expression of official school policy. The school district, the board, and the employees or officials are not liable in any civil or criminal action for any student expression made or published by students unless the employees or officials have interfered with or altered the content of the student speech or expression. The liability, if any, is only to the extent of the interference or alteration of the speech or expression.
Official school publications are free from prior restraint by employees or officials except as provided by law. A faculty advisor will supervise student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and to comply with the law, including, but not limited to, the restrictions against unlawful speech. The production of official school publications is guided by the law and by the ethical standards adopted by professional associations or societies of journalism.
Persons, other than students, who believe they have been aggrieved by student expression in a student-produced official school publication will follow the grievance procedure outlined in board policy 213.1. Students who believe their freedom of expression in a student-produced official school publication has been restricted will follow the grievance procedure outlined in board policy 502.4
The superintendent is responsible for developing a student publications code. This code will include, but not be limited to, reasonable rules including time, place, and manner of restrictions. The superintendent will also be responsible for distributing this policy and the student publications code to the students and their parents.
Legal Reference: U.S. Const. amend. I.
Iowa Const. Art. I (sec 7)
Morse v. Frederick U.S. 393 (2007)
Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
Bethel School District v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).
Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District, 393 U.S. 503 (1969).
Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .73; 280.22
Cross Reference: 102 Equal Educational Opportunity
502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
504 Student Activities
603.9 Academic Freedom
903.5 Distribution of Materials
Approved: 08/23/94
Reviewed: 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/19/05; 11/10/10; 11/10/15; 11/10/2020
Revised: 8/12/21
502.3R1 STUDENT PUBLICATIONS CODE
Student Expression Defined: Student Expression is speech, action, or other forms of expression which convey a student’s beliefs, views, or opinions.
Official school publications defined: An "official school publication" is material produced by students in the journalism, newspaper, yearbook, or writing classes and distributed to students either free or for a fee.
Limitations to Student Expression
No student will express, publish, or distribute in an official school publication material which is:
Obscene
Libelous
Slanderous; or
Encourages student to:
Commit unlawful acts
Violate lawful school regulations; school rules;
Cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient operation of the school or school activity;
Disrupt or interfere with the education program;
Interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere; or
Infringe on the rights of others..
Responsibilities of students for official school publications.
Students writing or editing official school publications shall assign and edit the news, editorial, and feature contents of the official school publications subject to the limitations of the school publications code and the laws.
Students shall strive to achieve professional standards of accuracy, fairness, objectivity, and thoroughness in each and every aspect of official school publications.
Students shall strive to achieve professional standards of grammar, usage, punctuation, and spelling for clarity and accuracy of official school publications.
Responsibilities of faculty advisors for official school publications.
Faculty advisors shall supervise student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and comply with the law including, but not limited to, the restrictions against unlawful speech.
Official school publications are produced under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Faculty advisors to students producing official school publications shall supervise the production of the student staff in order to maintain professional standards of English journalism.
District employees acting within the scope of their professional ethics will not suffer adverse employment action or be retaliated against for acting to protect a student for engaging in authorized student expression or for refusing to infringe on protected student expression.
District Employee Rights
Any District employee or official, acting within the scope of that person’s professional ethics, if any, shall not be dismissed, suspended, disciplined reasssigned, transferred, subject to termination, or nonrenewal of a teaching contract or extracurricular contract, or otherwise retaliated against for acting to protect a student for engaging in expression protected by law, or refusing to infringe upon student expression that is protected by law.
Liability.
Student expression, including student expression in an official school publication shall not be deemed to be an expression of the school district. The school district, the board, and the employees or officials are not liable in any civil or criminal action for any student expression made or published by students unless the employees or officials have interfered with or altered the content of the student expression. The liability, if any, is only to the extent of interference or alteration of the speech or expression.
Appeal procedure.
Students who believe they have been unreasonably restricted in their exercise of expression in an official student publication shall seek review of the decision through the student grievance procedure, under board policy 502.4.
Persons who believe they have been aggrieved by a student-related produced official student publication shall file their complaint to the citizen grievance procedure, under board policy 213.1.
Time, place, and manner of restrictions on student expression.
Student expression may be conveyed and official student publications may be distributed in a reasonable manner on or off school premises.
Student expression and distribution of official school publications in a reasonable manner shall not encourage students to:
commit unlawful acts;
violate school rules;
cause the material and substantial disruption of the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school activity;
disrupt or interfere with the education program;
interrupt the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere; or
infringe on the rights of others.
Code No. 502.04
STUDENT COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES
Student complaints and grievances regarding board policy or administrative regulation violations and other matters should be addressed to the student's teacher or another licensed employee, other than the administration, for resolution of the complaint. It is the goal of the board to resolve student complaints at the lowest organizational level.
If the complaint cannot be resolved by a licensed employee, the student may discuss the matter with the principal within five school days of the employee's decision. If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within five school days after speaking with the principal.
If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved by the superintendent, the student may ask to have the matter placed on the board agenda of a regularly scheduled board meeting in compliance with board policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
Cross Reference: 213 Public Participation in Board Meetings
502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
504.3 Student Publications
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/19/05; 11/10/10; 11/10/15; 11/10/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 502.05
STUDENT STORAGE AREAS
Student storage areas are the property of the school district. Students shall use the storage areas assigned to them by the school district for storing their school materials and personal belongings necessary for attendance at school. It shall be the responsibility of each student to keep their assigned storage area clean and undamaged.
To ensure students are properly maintaining their assigned storage area, the principal of the building may periodically inspect the storage areas. Students will be given twenty-four hours notice of a maintenance inspection. Student lockers may be searched in compliance with board policy regulating search and seizure.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.14; 808A (1993).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/19/05; 11/10/10; 11/10/15; 11/10/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 502.06
WEAPONS
The board believes weapons and other dangerous objects and look-a-likes in school district facilities cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.
School district facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons, dangerous objects and look-a-likes. Weapons and other dangerous objects and look-a-likes will 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.
Parents of students found to possess a weapons, dangerous objects or look-a-likes on school property shall be notified of the incident. Possession or confiscation of weapons or dangerous objects shall be reported to the law enforcement officials, and the student will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.
Students bringing a firearm to school or knowingly possessing firearms at 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 , but is not limited to, 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.
Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials shall be exempt from this policy. The principal may allow authorized persons to display weapons, other dangerous objects or look-a-likes for educational purposes. Such a display shall also be exempt from this policy. It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: No Child Left Behind, Title IV, Sec. 4141 P.L. 107-110 (2002)
Goals 2000: Educate America Act, Pub. L. No. 103-227, 108
Stat. 125(1994).
McClain v. Lafayette County Bd. of Education, 673 F.2d 106
(5th Cir. 1982)
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 724 (1993).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
503 Student Discipline
507 Student Health and Well-Being
Approved 10/10/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/19/05; 11/10/10; 11/10/15; 11/10/2020 Revised 01/13/03
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Morning Sun Board of Directors believes it is imperative to promote the health and wellbeing of all students in the district. The district will provide a substance use prevention program and set restrictions on substance use by students in accordance with applicable law.
The Morning Sun Board of Directors prohibits the distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of alcohol, tobacco, nicotine products other controlled substances, or look-a-like substances that appear to be tobacco, nicotine products, alcohol, or controlled substances by students while on the school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered buses; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management, and welfare of the school district. “Controlled substances” in the policy refers to the misuse of both licit and illicit drugs.
The board believes such illegal, unauthorized, or contraband materials generally cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors.
Violation of this policy by students will result in disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion. Use, purchase, or being in possession of tobacco/nicotine products for those under the age of twenty-one, may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities. Possession, use, or being under the influence of alcohol, and/or of a controlled substance may also be reported to local law enforcement authorities.
Students who violate the terms of this policy may be required to satisfactorily complete a substance abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved by the school board. If such student fails to satisfactorily complete such a program, the student may be subject to discipline including suspension or expulsion.
The board believes the substance abuse prevention program shall include:
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: 34 C.F.R. Pt. 86 (1992).
Iowa Code §§ 124; 279.8, .9; 453A (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(9), 12.5(3)(e), 12.5(4)(e), 12.5(5)(e), 12.5(21).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
503 Student Discipline
507 Student Health and Well-Being
Approved: 8/23/94
Reviewed: 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/14/05; 11/10/10; 11/10/15; 11/10/20; 1/11/24
Revised:
School district property is held in public trust by the board. School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search a student, student storage areas, desks, work areas or student vehicles based on a reasonable suspicion that a board policy, school rule or law has been broken. The search shall be in a manner reasonable in scope to maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students, employees and visitors to the school district facilities.
School authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search. Items of contraband may include, but are not limited to, nonprescription controlled substances, marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, apparatus used for controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco/nicotine, weapons, explosives, poisons and stolen property. The board prohibits the use of tobacco and prohibits the possession, use, or being under the influence of beer or alcohol, other controlled substances, or "look alike" substances that appear to be tobacco, beer or alcohol or controlled substances by students. Such items are not to be possessed by a student anywhere at school district facilities or at school-sponsored, school-approved or school- related activities. Possession of such items will be grounds for disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion and may be reported to local law enforcement authorities.
The board believes that such illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: U.S. Const. amend. IV.
New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).
Cason v. Cook, 810 F.2d 188 (8th Cir. 1987), cert. den., 482 U.S. 930 (1987).
Iowa Code ch. 808A (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(8).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
503 Student Discipline
905.2 Tobacco/Nicotine-Free Environment
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/14/05; 11/10/10; 11/10/15; 11/10/2020 Revised: 12/8/2020
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 502.08E1
SEARCH AND SEIZURE CHECKLIST
I. What factors caused you to have a reasonable suspicion that the search of this student or the student's effects, locker or automobile would turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law, school rules or policy?
A. Eyewitness account.
1. By whom:
2. Date/Time:
3. Place:
4. What was seen:
B. Information from a reliable source.
1. From whom:
2. Time received:
3. How information was received:
4. Who received the information:
5. Describe information:
C. Suspicious behavior. Explain
D. Time of search:
E. Location of search:
F. Student told purpose of search:
G. Consent of student requested:
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 1 of 2
Code No. 502.9E1
SEARCH AND SEIZURE CHECKLIST
II. Was the search you conducted reasonable in terms of scope and intrusiveness?
A. What were you searching for:
B. Sex of the student:
C. Age of the student:
D. Exigency of the situation:
E. What type of search was being conducted:
F. Who conducted the search:
Position: Sex:
G. Witness(s):
III. Explanation of Search.
A. Describe the time and location of the search:
B. Describe exactly what was searched:
C. What did the search yield:
D. What was seized:
E. Were any materials turned over to law enforcement authorities:
F. Were parents notified of the search including the reason for it and the scope:
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 2 of 2
Code No. 502.08R1
SEARCH AND SEIZURE REGULATION
I. Searches, in general.
A. Reasonable Suspicion: A search of a student will be justified when there are reasonable grounds for the suspicion that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law or school policy or rules.
Reasonable suspicion may be formed by considering factors such as the following:
(1) eyewitness observations by employees;
(2) information received from reliable sources;
(3) suspicious behavior by the student; or,
(4) the student's past history and school record although this factor alone is not sufficient to provide the basis for a reasonable suspicion.
B. Reasonable Scope: A search will be permissible in its scope or intrusiveness when the measures adopted are reasonably related to the objectives of the search. Reasonableness of scope or intrusiveness may be determined based on factors such as the following:
(1) the age of the student;
(2) the sex of the student;
(3) the nature of the infraction; and
(4) the exigency requiring the search without delay.
II. Types of Searches
A. Personal Searches
1. A student's person and/or personal effects (e.g., purse, backpack, etc.) may be searched when a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe the student is in possession of illegal or contraband items or has violated board policies, school rules or the law.
2. Personally intrusive searches will require more compelling circumstances to be considered reasonable.
(a) Pat-Down Search: If a pat-down search or a search of a student's garments (such as jackets, socks, pockets, etc.) is
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/14/05; 11/10/10; 11/10/15 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 1 of 2
Code No. 502.08R1
SEARCH AND SEIZURE REGULATION
conducted, it will be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex as the student and with another adult witness of the same sex present, when feasible.
(b) A more intrusive search of the student's person is permissible in emergency situations when the health and safety of the students, employees, or visitors on the school premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district or at school-sponsored or school-approved events are threatened. Such a search may only be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex as the student, with an adult of the same sex present, unless the health or safety of students will be endangered by the delay which may be caused by following these procedures.
B. Locker Searches
1. Maintenance Searches: Although school lockers are temporarily assigned to individual students, they remain the property of the school district at all times. The school district has a reasonable and valid interest in insuring the lockers are properly maintained. For this reason, periodic inspections of lockers is permissible to check for cleanliness and vandalism. General maintenance inspections may be conducted by school authorities with at least twenty-four hours notice to the student, without the student's consent, and without a search warrant.
Any contraband discovered during such searches shall be confiscated by the administration. The administration shall attempt to correct the problem through counseling, parental involvement, medical referrals, or other such referrals depending on the severity of the situation.
2. Non-maintenance Searches: The student's locker and its contents may be searched when a school authority has reasonable suspicion that the locker contains illegal or contraband items. Such searches should be conducted in the presence of another adult witness when feasible.
C. Automobile Searches
Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right. The school retains authority to conduct routine patrols of the student parking lots. The interior of a student's automobile on the school premises may be searched if the school official has reasonable suspicion to believe that illegal, unauthorized or contraband items are contained inside.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 2 of 2
Code No. 502.09
INTERVIEWS OF STUDENTS BY OUTSIDE AGENCIES
Generally, students may not be interviewed during the school day by persons other than parents and school district officials and employees.
Requests from law enforcement officers and from persons other than parents, school district officials, and employees to interview students shall be made through the principal's office. Upon receiving a request, it shall be the responsibility of the principal to determine whether the request will be granted. Generally, prior to granting a request, the principal shall attempt to contact the parents to inform them of the request and to ask them to be present.
If a child abuse investigator wishes to interview a student, the principal will defer to the investigator's judgment as to whether the student should be interviewed independently from the student's parents, whether the school is the most appropriate setting for the interview, and who will be present during the interview.
Students shall not be taken from school without the consent of the principal and without proper warrant.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 232; 280.17 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 102.
441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.
640 I.A.C. 4.9.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 275.
Cross Reference: 502.8 Search and Seizure
503 Student Discipline
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 10/14/96; 11/09/99; 11/14/05; 11/10/10; 11/10/15; 11/10/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 503.1
STUDENT CONDUCT
The board believes inappropriate student conduct causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment, interferes with the rights of others, or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, and visitors on school premises. Appropriate classroom behavior allows teachers to communicate more effectively with students.
Students will conduct themselves in a manner fitting to their age level and maturity and with respect and consideration for the rights of others while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered buses; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district. Consequences for the misconduct will be fair and developmentally appropriate in light of the circumstances.
Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be disciplined for conduct which disrupts or interferes with the education program; conduct which disrupts the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school activity; conduct which disrupts the rights of other students to obtain their education or participation; or conduct which interrupts the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere. Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to, removal from the classroom, detention, suspension, probation, and expulsion.
A student who commits an assault against an employee on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-owned or school-operated chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school district activities will be suspended by the principal. Notice of the suspension is sent to the board president. The board will review the suspension and decide whether to hold a disciplinary hearing to determine whether to impose further sanctions against the student which may include expulsion. In making its decision, the board shall consider the best interests of the school district, which shall include what is best to protect and ensure the safety of the school employees and students from the student committing the assault. Assault for purposes of this section of this policy is defined as, when, without justification, a student does any of the following:
* an act which is intended to cause pain or injury to, or which is intended to result in physical contact which will be insulting or offensive to another, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or
* any act which is intended to place another in fear of immediate physical contact which will be painful, injurious, insulting or offensive, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or
* intentionally points any firearm toward another or displays in a threatening manner any dangerous weapon toward another.
The act is not an assault when the person doing any of the above and the other person are voluntary participants in a sport, social or other activity, not in itself criminal, when the act is a reasonably foreseeable incident of such sport or activity, and does not create an unreasonable risk of serious injury or breach of the peace.
Removal from the classroom means a student is sent to the building principal's office. It shall be within the discretion of the person in charge of the classroom to remove the student.
Detention means the student's presence is required during non-school hours for disciplinary purposes. The student can be required to appear prior to the beginning of the school day, after school has been dismissed for the day or on a non - school day. Whether a student will serve detention, and the length of the detention, shall be within the discretion of the licensed employee disciplining the student or the building principal.
Suspension means either an in-school suspension, an out-of-school suspension, a restriction from activities or loss of eligibility. An in-school suspension means the student will attend school but will be temporarily isolated from one or more classes while under supervision. An in-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days. An out-of-school suspension means the student is removed from the school environment, which includes school classes and activities. An out-of-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days. A restriction from school activities means a student will attend school and classes and practice but will not participate in school activities.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 1 of 2
Code No. 503.1
STUDENT CONDUCT
Probation means a student is given a conditional suspension of a penalty for a definite period of time in addition to being reprimanded. The conditional suspension will mean the student must meet the conditions and terms for the suspension of the penalty. Failure of the student to meet these conditions and terms shall result in immediate reinstatement of the penalty.
Expulsion means an action by the board to remove a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, for a period of time set by the board.
Discipline of special education students, including suspensions and expulsions, will comply with the provisions of applicable federal and state laws.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Following the suspension of a special education student, an informal evaluation of the student's placement shall take place. The Individual Education Program (IEP) shall be evaluated to determine whether it needs to be changed or modified in response to the behavior that led to the suspension.
If a special education student's suspensions, either in or out of school, equal ten days on a cumulative basis, a staffing team shall meet to determine whether the IEP is appropriate.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: No Child Left Behind, Title IV, Sec. 4115.P.L. 107-110 (2002)
Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).
Brands v. Sheldon Community School District, 671 F.Supp. 627 (N.D. Iowa 1987).
Sims v. Colfax Community School District, 307 F.Supp. 485 (Iowa 1970).
Bunger v. Iowa High School Athletic Assn., 197 N.W.2d 555 (1972).
Board of Education of the Ind. School Dist. of Waterloo v. Green, 259 Iowa 1260, 147 N.W.2d 854 (1967).
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.4, .5 (1993).
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
504 Student Activities
603.3 Special Education
903.5 Distribution of Materials
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/96; 11/09/99; 12/12/05; 12/10/10; 12/15/15; 12/9/2020 Revised 01/13/03; 8/11/15
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 2 of 2
Code No. 503.1R1
STUDENT SUSPENSION
Administration Action
A. Probation
1. Probation is conditional suspension of a penalty for a set period of time. Probation may be imposed by the principal for infractions of school rules which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school.
2. The principal shall conduct an information investigation of the allegations against the student prior to imposition of probation. Such investigation shall include, but not be limited to, written or oral notice to the student of the allegations against the student and an opportunity to respond. Written notice of the probation and the reasons therefore shall be sent to the parents.
B. In-School Suspension
1. In-school suspensions may be imposed by the principal for infractions of school rules which are serious but which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school.
2. The principal shall conduct an informal investigation of the allegations against the student prior to imposition of an in-school suspension. Such an investigation shall include, but not be limited to, written or oral notice to the student of the allegations against the student and an opportunity to respond. In-school suspension shall not be imposed for a longer period than ten school days. Written notice of the in-school suspension and the reasons therefore shall be sent to the student's parents.
C. Out-of-School Suspension
1. Out-of-School Suspension is to be employed when other available school resources are unable to constructively remedy student misconduct.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 1 of 2
Code No. 503.1R1
STUDENT SUSPENSION
2. A student may be suspended for up to ten school days for a commission of gross or repeated infractions of school rules, board policy or the law, or when the presence of the student will cause interference with the maintenance of the educational environment or the operation of the school. The principal may suspend such students after conducting an investigation of the charges against the student, giving the student:
a. Oral or written notice of the allegations against the student,
b. The basis in fact for the charges, and
c. The opportunity to respond to those charges.
At the principal's discretion, the student may be allowed to confront witnesses against the student or present witnesses on behalf of the student.
3. Notice of the suspension shall be mailed no later than the end of the school day following the suspension to the student's parents and the superintendent. A reasonable effort shall be made to notify the student's parents by telephone or personal contact and such effort shall be documented by the person making or attempting to make the contact. Written notice to the parents shall include the circumstances which led to the suspension and a copy of the board policy and rules pertaining to the suspension.
D.Suspensions and Special Education Students
1. Students who have been identified as special education students may be referred for a review of the student's Individual Education Program (IEP). The IEP may be revised to include a continuum of intervention strategies and programming to change the behavior.
2. Students who have not been identified as special education students may be referred for evaluation after the student's out-of-school suspension to determine whether the student has a disability and is in need of special education.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 2 of 2
Code No. 503.2
EXPULSION
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 superintendent 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:
1. Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion;
2. 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;
3. An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide either oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student's behalf;
4.The right to be represented by counsel; and,
5. The results and finding of the board in writing open to the student's inspection.
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 and 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.
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/96; 11/09/99; 12/12/05; 12/10/10; 12/15/15;12/9/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 1 of 2
Code No. 503.2
EXPULSION
Legal Reference: 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 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(8).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
503 Student Discipline
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 2 of 2
Code No. 503.3
FINES - FEES - CHARGES
The board believes students should respect school district property and assist in its preservation for future use by others. Students may be assessed fines, charges, or fees for the materials needed in a course, for overdue school materials, for participating in activities, or for misuse of school property.
The superintendent shall inform the board of the dollar amount to be charged to students or others for fines, charges, or fees annually. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 227.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 532.
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
503 Student Discipline
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/96; 11/09/99; 12/12/05; 12/10/10; 12/15/15;12/9/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 503.4
GOOD CONDUCT RULE
Participation in school activities is a privilege. School activities provide the benefits of promoting additional interests and abilities in the students during their school years and for their lifetimes.
Students who participate in extracurricular activities serve as ambassadors of the school district throughout the calendar year, whether away from school or at school. Students who wish to have the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities must conduct themselves in accordance with board policy and must refrain from activities which are illegal, immoral or unhealthy.
Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures. The principal shall keep records of violations of the good conduct rule.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop rules and regulations for school activities. Students wanting to participate in school activities must meet the requirements set out by the school district for participation in the activity.
Legal Reference: Bunger v. Iowa High School Athletic Assn., 197 N.W.2d 555 (Iowa 1972).
In re Jason Clark, 1 D.P.I. App. Dec. 167 (1978).
Iowa Code §§ 280.13, .13A (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(8); 36.15(1).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
503 Student Discipline
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/96; 11/09/99; 12/12/05; 12/10/10; 12/15/15; 12/9/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 503.5
Page 1 of 2
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional physical punishment of a student and is prohibited. It includes the use of unreasonable or unnecessary physical force or physical contact made with the intent to harm or cause pain. No employee is prohibited from:
• Using reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain, in order
to accomplish any of the following:
--To quell a disturbance or prevent an act that threatens physical harm to any
person.
--To obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object within a pupil's control.
--For the purposes of self-defense or defense of others as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.3.
--For the protection of property as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.4 or 704.5.
--To remove a disruptive pupil from class or any area of school premises or from school-sponsored activities off school premises.
--To protect a student from the self-infliction of harm.
--To protect the safety of others.
• Using incidental, minor, or reasonable physical contact to maintain order and control.
Reasonable physical force should be commensurate with the circumstances of the situation. The following factors should be considered in using reasonable physical force for the reasons stated in this policy:
1. The size and physical, mental, and psychological condition of the student;
2. The nature of the student's behavior or misconduct provoking the use of physical force;
3. The instrumentality used in applying the physical force;
4. The extent and nature of resulting injury to the student, if any;
5. The motivation of the school employee using physical force.
Upon request, the student's parents shall be given an explanation of the reasons for physical force.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 503.5
Page 2 of 2
Legal Reference: Ingraham v. Wright, 430 U.S. 651 (1977).
Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).
Tinkham v. Kole, 252 Iowa 1303, 110 N.W.2d 258 (1961).
Lai v. Erickson, PTPC Admin. Doc. 83-12 (1983).
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(8), 103.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 275.
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
503 Student Discipline
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/96; 11/09/99; 12/12/05; 12/10/10; 12/15/15; 12/9/2020 Revised 02/10/09
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
It is the goal of the district to provide a safe and supportive educational environment in which all students may learn. As part of creating that safe educational environment, no employee of the district will provide false or misleading information to the parent/guardian of a student regarding that student’s gender identity or intention to transition to a gender that is different from their birth certificate or certificate issued upon adoption.
If a student makes a request to a licensed employee to accommodate a gender identity, name, or pronoun that is different than what was assigned to the student in the student’s registration forms or records, the licensed employee is required by Iowa law to report the request to an administrator. The school administrator receiving the report is required by Iowa law to report the request to the student’s parent/guardian. This requirement also applies to all nicknames.
To maintain compliance with Iowa law and also provide efficiency in the reporting requirements listed above, the Superintendent will provide the opportunity for parents and guardians to list in the student’s registration paperwork any and all nicknames used for students.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code
Cross Reference:
Approved: 8/7/23
Reviewed:
Revised:
Dear (Parent/Guardian),
This letter is to inform you that your student (student’s name listed on registration) has made a request of a licensed employee to (check all that apply):
_____ make an accommodation that is intended to affirm the student’s gender identity as follows:
_____ use a name, pronoun, or gender identity that is different from the name, pronoun, and/or gender identity listed on the student’s school registration forms. The name, pronoun, or gender identity requested is _______________________________
If you would like to amend the student’s registration paperwork to permit the student’s requested accommodation and/or include the use of the above-referenced name/pronoun/gender identity, please complete the attached form and return it to the district administration office.
Sincerely,
______________________________________ _______________________
Administrator Date
Student’s current name on registration Student ID
Please update my student’s names, pronouns, and/or gender identities on my student’s registration paperwork to include all of the following:
Names
Pronouns
Gender Identities
________________________________________ ___________________
Parent/Guardian Date
This is the model policy published by the Iowa Department of Education, which all districts are required to adopt as a result of HF 604 passed in 2023.
Adopted: 12/13/23
Reviewed:
Revised:
Code No. 504.4
STUDENT PERFORMANCES
Students, as part of the education program, may participate in contests or other public and private events approved by the superintendent that will be of benefit to the student and the education program. Performance at such events is a privilege.
Students, who perform at such events, serve as ambassadors of the school district and must conduct themselves in the same manner as required in the regular school day. Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures.
Students will be allowed to perform in these events only with proper permission and supervision and when the events do not disrupt the education program or other school district operations. The events must be approved by the superintendent, unless it involves unusual travel and expense, in which case the board must approve of the performance.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy. In developing the administrative regulations, these guidelines should be followed:
• Performances by student groups should be allowed on a very limited basis;
• All groups of students should have an opportunity to participate; and,
• Extensive travel by one group of students should be discouraged.
It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether the event will benefit the education program and the participating students. Contests or other performances by students unapproved by the superintendent shall be the responsibility of the parent and the student.
Legal Reference: Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
Iowa Code §§ 280.13-.14 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.6.
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
504 Student Activities
904 Community Activities Involving Students
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/96; 12/13/99; 1/09/06; 1/12/11; 1/12/16; 1/14/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 504.6
STUDENT ACTIVITY PROGRAM
Participation in school activities is a privilege. School activities provide the benefits of promoting additional interests and ability in the students during their school years and for their lifetime.
Students will have an opportunity to participate in a school activity unless the activity is not offered, the activity is an intramural or interscholastic athletic activity or the student cannot participate for disciplinary reasons. If the activity is an intramural or interscholastic athletic activity, students of the opposite sex will have a comparable opportunity for participation. Comparable opportunity does not guarantee boys and girls will be allowed to play on each other's teams when there are athletic activities available that will allow both boys and girls to reap the benefits of school activities, which are the promotion of additional interests and abilities in the students.
Student activity events must be approved by the superintendent unless it involves unusual travel expense, in which case the board will take action. The events must not disrupt the education program or other school district operations.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for each school activity. These regulations shall include, but not be limited to, when physical examinations will be required, how and when parents will be informed about the risk of the activity, academic requirements, and proof of insurance on the student participating in certain activities. Students wanting to participate in school activities must meet the requirements set out by the school district for participation in the activity.
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. §§ 1681-1683; 1685-1686 (1988).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 106.41 (1992).
Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 280.13-.14 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.6.
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
503 Student Discipline
504 Student Activities
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/96; 12/13/99; 1/09/06; 1/12/11; 1/12/16; 1/14/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 505.1
STUDENT PROGRESS REPORTS AND CONFERENCES
Students shall receive a progress report at the end of each nine-week grading period. Students who are doing poorly, and their parents, shall be notified prior to the end of the semester in order to have an opportunity to improve their grade. The board encourages the notification of students who have made marked improvement prior to the end of the semester.
Parent-teacher conferences will be held twice a year at the elementary school.
Parents, teachers, or principals may request a conference for students in grades kindergarten through six in addition to the scheduled conference time. Parents and students are encouraged to discuss the student's progress or other matters with the student's teacher.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A; 280 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 12.3(7); 12.5(16).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
505 Student Scholastic Achievement
506 Student Records
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/96; 1/19/00; 2/13/06; 1/12/11; 2/09/16; 2/8/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 505.2
Page 1 of 2
STUDENT PROMOTION - RETENTION - ACCELERATION
Students will be promoted to the next grade level at the end of each school year based on the student's achievement, age, maturity, emotional stability, and social adjustment.
The district shall adhere to the following:
• Retention/Promotion in kindergarten – eighth grade: The retention of a student will be determined based upon the judgment of the licensed employee and the principal. When it becomes evident a student in grades kindergarten through eight may be retained in a grade level for an additional year, the parents will be informed. It is within the sole discretion of the district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
• Retention/Promotion in ninth – twelfth grade: Students in grades nine through twelve will be informed of the required course work necessary to be promoted each year. When it becomes evident a student in these grades will be unable to meet the minimum credit requirements for the year, the student and parents will be informed. It is within the sole discretion of the district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
• Acceleration in kindergarten – twelfth grade: Students in grades kindergarten through twelve with exceptional talents may, with the permission of the principal and parents, take classes beyond their current grade level. Enrichment opportunities outside the school district may be allowed when they do not conflict with the school district's graduation requirements.
Code No. 505.2
Page 2 of 2
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 256.11, 279.8; .68; 280.3 (2015).
281 I.A.C. 12.5(16).
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
505 Student Scholastic Achievement
603.2 Summer School Instruction
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/96; 1/19/00; 2/13/06; 1/12/11; 2/09/16 Revised 08/11/15
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 505.3
STUDENT HONORS AND AWARDS
The school district shall provide a program that establishes honors and awards including, but not limited to, academic letters and good citizenship awards, for students to assist students in setting goals. Students shall be made aware of honors and awards and the action necessary on the part of the student to achieve them. Students who have not attended the school district for their entire education or have not attended an accredited public or private school may not be eligible for honors and awards.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
Cross Reference: 504 Student Activities
505 Student Scholastic Achievement
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/96; 1/19/00; 2/13/06; 1/12/11; 2/09/16; 2/8/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
A comprehensive testing program shall be established and maintained to evaluate the education program of the school district and to assist in providing guidance or counseling services to students and their families.
No student is required, as part of, as part of any applicable program, to submit to a survey, analysis or evaluation that reveals information concerning:
Prior to an employee or contractor of the district providing information on a student enrolled in the district on any survey related to the social or emotional abilities, competencies, or characteristics of the student, the district will provide the parent/guardian of the student detailed information related to the survey and obtain written consent of the parent/guardian of the student. This includes the person who created the survey, the person who sponsors the survey, how the information generated by the survey is used, and how information generated by the survey is stored. This requirement will not prohibit a district employee from answering questions related to a student enrolled in the district as part of developing or implementing an individualized education program for the student.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
It shall be the responsibility of the board to review and approve the evaluation and testing program.
Legal Reference: No Child Left Behind, Title II, Sec. 1061, P.L. 107-110 (2002)
Goals 2000: Educate America Act, Pub. L. No. 103-227, 108 Stat. 125
(1994).
20 U.S.C. § 1232h (1988).
Iowa Code §§ 280.3; 256B; 282.1, .3, .6 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.5(13); 12.5(21).
Cross Reference: 505 Student Scholastic Achievement
506 Student Records
507 Student Health and Well-Being
Approved: 10/10/94
Reviewed: 02/13/06; 1/12/11; 2/09/16; 2/8/21
Revised: 01/13/03; 7/11/23
505.8
PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT DISTRICT-WIDE POLICY
At the building level, it is the policy of Morning Sun Elementary School that parents of all participating children have the opportunity to be involved in the joint development of the school plan and in the school's review process for the purpose of school improvement. The school provides coordination, technical assistance and other necessary support in the planning and implementation of parent involvement activities. The school encourages parent involvement and supports the partnership between home/school/community by providing understandable information about standards and assessments; providing training and materials for parents to help their children and to involve other parents; educating school personnel about involving parents and the value of parent contributions; and developing meaningful roles for community organizations and businesses to work with parents and schools.
It is the policy of Morning Sun Elementary School that:
1.) This jointly developed, written policy is distributed to parents of participating Title I children.The Title I Parent Involvement Policy will be discussed at the annual meeting, parent/teacher conferences, informal meetings, and will be mailed to parents who did not attend any of the above. New families to the district will receive the policy in the mail along with notification of Title I services if the student meets the eligibility criteria to be served.
2.) An annual meeting is held for all parents of participating children. Additional parent meetings with flexible meeting times shall be held throughout the year as determined by parent interest and suggestions.An annual fall meeting is held for all parents of participating children. Parent/teacher conferences are held as parents' interest and involvement levels indicate. Parents are notified of such events via mailings, calendars, newsletters and/or phone calls.
3.) Parents are given assistance in understanding the requirements of the Title I law, National Educational Goals, content standards, performance standards, and assessments. Parents are given assistance in understanding the requirements of the Title I law as well as information on goals, standards, and assessments at the annual parent meeting, parent/teacher conferences, informational meetings, publications, and Title I narratives.
4.) Parents receive an explanation of the school's performance profile, expected proficiency levels for students, and their students assessment results.Parents receive information of the school's performance profile, proficiency levels, and assessment results through annually published 280.12/280.18 reports, an open school board meeting where results are presented and discussed, individual reports to parent, parent meetings, and parent/teacher conferences.
Approved Reviewed 05/08/06; 5/11/11; 5/10/16; 2/8/21; 2/13/24 Revised 01/13/03
Page 1 of 4
Code 505.8
PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT DISTRICT-WIDE POLICY
5.) Parents are informed of the reasons for their children's participation, the curriculum, and the instructional objectives and methods of the program. Parents are informed of the reasons for their children's participation, the curriculum, and the instructional objectives and methods through letters sent home, explanation of eligibility criteria at parent meetings, parent/teacher conferences and classroom visits.
6.) Parents receive timely responses to all parent recommendations. Full opportunities are provided for all parents to participate in Title I activities. Parents receive timely verbal or written response to all parent recommendations. Opportunities are provided for parents to participate in Title I activities such as Parent Open House, Parent Teacher Conferences, and the annual Parent Meeting.
7.) A jointly developed school/parent compact outlines how parents, the staff, and students share responsibility for improved student achievement and the means by which the school and parents continue to build and develop partnerships to help children achieve the local high standards.Coming together as parents, students, and teachers we affirm the importance of working together to help students succeed. Through the development of the school/parent compact we have agreed to;
• share responsibility at school and at home to give students a better education and a good start in life
• promote effective two-way communication between families and schools
• provide opportunities for families to learn how to help their children succeed in school and for school staff to work with families, support family-school efforts to improve student learning by reviewing progress regularly and strengthening cooperative actions.
The school/parent compact was established and agreed upon by parents and staff. It is distributed, discussed, and signed at the annual parent meeting, informational meeting, and/or parent/teacher conferences.
Page 2 of 4
Code 505.8
PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT DISTRICT-WIDE POLICY
8.) The Title I program provides opportunities for parents to become partners with the school in promoting the education of their children at home and at school. Parents are given help monitoring their student's progress. The school provides assistance to parents on how they can participate in decisions related to their student's education. The school provides reasonable support for parental involvement activities as requested by parents.
Parent opportunities for becoming partners with the school in promoting the education of their children include:
• Communication between home and school is regular, two-way, and meaningful.
• Opportunities for parents to become involved in decision-making about how the program will be designed, implemented, assessed, and strengthened.
• Regular information for parents about the objectives of educational programs and their child's participation and progress in those programs.
• Provide parents with strategies and techniques for assisting their children with learning activities at home that support and extend the school's instructional program.
• Involve parents, with appropriate training, in instructional support roles at the school.
• Parenting skills are promoted and supported.
• Link parents to programs and resources within the community that provide support services to families.
9.) The school coordinates and integrates parent involvement programs and activities with other programs as appropriate.
Community resources are used to strengthen schools, families, and student learning. When schools and communities work together, both are strengthened in what they are able to accomplish.
• Information is distributed regarding cultural, recreational, academic, health, social, and other resources that serve families within the community.
• Partnerships with local business and service groups to advance student learning and assist schools and families.
• Foster participation in community service.
• Involve community members in school volunteer programs.
• Disseminate information to the school community regarding school programs and performance.
• Collaborate with community agencies to provide family support services.
Page 3 of 4
Code 505.8
PARENT AND FAMILY ENGAGEMENT DISTRICT-WIDE POLICY
10.) An annual evaluation of this parental involvement policy shall be conducted to determine the effectiveness of this policy and the barriers of this policy for increasing parent involvement. Policy evaluation findings shall be used in designing strategies for school improvement and revising parent policies.
An annual evaluation is conducted through the use of a written parent survey to assess the effectiveness of the Title I program. The information gained from this review will be shared and discussed at future parent meetings and the program will be revised or modified as suggestions warrant and are feasible. Reading assessment profiles are also analyzed to determine individual growth.
The superintendent is responsible for notifying parents of this policy annually or within a reasonable time after it has been amended during the school year. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal References: No Child Left Behind. Title I, Sec. 1118. P.L. 107-110 (2002)
Cross References: 903.2 Community Resource Persons and Volunteers.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Page 4 of 4
Code No. 506.1
STUDENT RECORDS ACCESS
The board recognizes the importance of maintaining student records and preserving their confidentiality. Student records containing personally identifiable information shall be kept confidential at collection, storage, disclosure and destruction stages. Student records shall be maintained by the board secretary and housed in the central administration office. Student is defined as an enrolled individual, PK-12 including children in school district sponsored child-care programs.
Parents and eligible students will have access to the student’s records during the regular business hours of the school district. An eligible student is a student who has reached eighteen years of age or is attending an institution of postsecondary education at the post high school level. Parents of an eligible student are provided access to the student records only with the written permission of the eligible student unless the eligible student is defined as a dependent by the Internal Revenue Code. In that case, the parents may be provided access without the written permission of the student. A representative of the parents or eligible student, who has received written permission from the parents or eligible student, may inspect and review a special education student’s records. Parents, other than parents of an eligible student, may be denied access to a student’s records if the school district has a court order stating such or when the district has been advised under the appropriate laws that the parents may not access the students records. Parents may inspect an instrument used for the purpose of collection of student personal information prior to the instrument’s use.
A student record may contain information on more than one student. Parents will have the right to access the information relating to their student or to be informed of the information. Eligible students will also have the right to access the information relating to themselves, or be informed of the information.
Parents and eligible students will have a right to access the student's records upon request without unnecessary delay and in no instance more than forty-five calendar days after the request is made. Parents, an eligible student, or an authorized representative will have the right to access the student's records prior to an Individual Education Program (IEP) meeting or hearing.
Copies of student records will only be provided if failure to do so would effectively prevent the parents or student from exercising the right to access the student records. Fees for copies of the records are waived if it would prevent the parents or student from accessing the records. A fee may not be charged to search or retrieve information from student records.
Upon the request of parents or an eligible student, the school district shall provide an explanation and interpretation of the student record and a list of the types and locations of student records collected, maintained or used by the school district.
If the parents or an eligible student believes the information in the student records is inaccurate, misleading or violates the privacy or other rights of the student, the parents or an eligible student may request that the school district amend the student records. The school district will decide whether to amend the student records within a reasonable time after receipt of the request. If the school district determines an amendment is made to the student record, the school district will make the amendment and inform the parents or the eligible student of the decision in writing.
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 12/9/96; 2/22/00; 2/09/11; 3/08/16; 3/9/21 Revised 01/13/03; 2/10/09; 7/11/12
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Page 1 of 4
Code No. 506.1
STUDENT RECORDS ACCESS
If the school district determines that amendment of the student's record is not appropriate, it will inform the parents or the eligible student of their right to a hearing before a hearing officer provided by the school district.
If the parents' and the eligible student's request to amend the student record is further denied following the hearing, the parents or the eligible student are informed that they have the right to place an explanatory letter in the student record commenting on the school district's decision or setting forth the reasoning for disagreeing with the school district. Additions to the student's records shall become a part of the student record and be maintained like other student records. If the school district discloses the student records, the explanation by the parents will also be disclosed.
Student records may be disclosed in limited circumstances without parental or eligible student's written permission. This disclosure is made on the condition that the student record will not be disclosed to a third party without the written permission of the parents or the eligible student. This disclosure may be made to the following individuals or under the following circumstances:
• to school officials within the school district and AEA personnel whom the superintendent has determined have a legitimate educational interest, including, but not limited to, board members, employees, school attorney, auditor, health professionals, and individuals serving on official school committees;
• to officials of another school district in which the student wishes to enroll, provided the other school district notifies the parents the student records are being sent and the parents have an opportunity to receive a copy of the records and challenge the contents of the records unless the annual notification includes a provision that records will automatically be transferred to new school districts;
• to the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education or state and local educational authorities;
• in connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received if the information is necessary to receive the financial aid;
• to organizations conducting educational studies and the study does not release personally identifiable information;
• to accrediting organizations;
• to parents of a dependent student as defined in the Internal Revenue Code;
• to comply with a court order or judicially issued subpoena consistent with an interagency agreement between the school district and juvenile justice agencies;
• in connection with a health or safety emergency; or,
• as directory information.
The superintendent will keep a list of the individuals and their positions who are authorized to view a special education student's records without the permission of the parents or the eligible student. Individuals not listed are not allowed access without parental or an eligible student's written permission. This list must be current and available for public inspection and updated as changes occur.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Page 2 of 4
Code No. 506.1
STUDENT RECORDS ACCESS
The superintendent will also keep a list of individuals, agencies and organizations which have requested or obtained access to a student's records, the date access was given and their legitimate educational interest or purpose for which they were authorized to view the records. The superintendent, however, does not need to keep a list of the parents, authorized educational employees, officers and agencies of the school district who have accessed the student records. This list for a student record may be accessed by the parents, the eligible student and the custodian of student records.
Permanent student records, including a student's name, address, phone number, grades, attendance record, classes attended, grade level completed and year completed may be maintained without time limitation. Permanent student records must be kept in a fire-safe vault.
When personally identifiable information, other than permanent student records, no longer needs to be maintained by the school district to provide educational services to the special education student, the parents or eligible student are notified. This notice is normally given after a student graduates or otherwise leaves the school district. If the parents or eligible student request that the personally identifiable information be destroyed, the school district will destroy the records. Prior to the destruction of the records, the school district must inform the parents or eligible student the records may be needed by the parents or eligible student for social security benefits or other purposes.
The school district will cooperate with the juvenile justice system in sharing information contained in permanent student records regarding students who have become involved in the juvenile justice system. The school district will enter into an interagency agreement with the juvenile justice agencies involved.
The purpose of the agreement is to allow for the sharing of information prior to a student's adjudication in order to promote and collaborate between the school district and the agencies to improve school safety, reduce alcohol and illegal drug use, reduce truancy, reduce in-school and out-of-school suspensions, and to support alternatives to in-school and out-of-school suspensions and expulsions which provide structured and well supervised educational programs supplemented by coordinated and appropriate services designed to correct behaviors that lead to truancy, suspension and expulsions and to support students in successfully completing their education.
The school district may share any information with the agencies contained in a student's permanent record, which is directly related to the juvenile justice system's ability to effectively serve the student. Prior to adjudication, information contained in the permanent record may be disclosed by the school district to the parties without parental consent or court order. Information contained in a student's permanent record may be disclosed by the school district to the agencies after adjudication only with parental consent or a court order. Information shared pursuant to the agreement is used solely for determining the programs and services appropriate to the needs of the student or student's family or coordinating the delivery of programs and services to the student or student's family.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Page 3 of 4
Code No. 506.1
STUDENT RECORDS ACCESS
Information shared under the agreement is not admissible in any court proceedings, which take place prior to a disposition hearing, unless written consent is obtained from a student's parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian.
Confidential information shared between the school district and the agencies will remain confidential and will not be shared with any other person, unless otherwise provided by law.
Information shared under the agreement is not admissible in any court proceedings, which take place prior to the disposition hearing, unless written consent is obtained from a student's parent, guardian, or legal or actual custodian. The school district may discontinue information sharing with an agency if the school district determines that the agency has violated the intent or letter of the agreement.
Agencies will contact the principal of the attendance center where the student is currently or was enrolled. The principal will then forward copies of the records within 10 business days of the request.
The school district will provide training or instruction to employees about parents' and eligible students' rights under this policy. Employees will also be informed about the procedures for carrying out this policy.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to annually notify parents and eligible students of their right to inspect and review the student's records. The notice shall be given in a parents' or eligible student's native language. Should the school district collect personal information from students for the purposes of marketing or selling that information, the school district will annually notify parents of such activity.
The notice will include a statement that the parents have a right to file a complaint alleging the school district failed to comply with this policy. Complaints are forwarded to Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, Washington, DC. 20202-4605.
Legal Reference: No Child Left Behind, Title IX, Sec. 9528, P.L. 107-110 (2002).
USA Patriot Act, Sec. 507, 107-56. (2001).
20 U.S.C. § 1232g, 1415 (1994).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 99, 300.560 - .574 (1996).
Iowa Code §§ 22; 279.9B, 280.24,.25, 622.10 (2001).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 41.20
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720, 825.
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
505 Student Scholastic Achievement
506 Student Records
507 Student Health and Well Being
603.3 Special Education
708 Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records
901 Public Examination of School District Records
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Page 4 of 4
Code No. 506.1E1
REQUEST OF NON-PARENT FOR EXAMINATION AND/OR COPIES OF STUDENT RECORDS
The undersigned hereby requests permission to examine the Community School District's official student records of:
,
(Full Legal Name of Student) (Date of Birth)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The undersigned requests copies of the following official student records of the above student:
----------------------------------------------------------------------
The undersigned certifies that they are (check one):
(a) An official of another school system in which the
student intends to enroll. ( )
(b) An authorized representative of the Comptroller
General of the United States. ( )
(c) An authorized representative of the Secretary of
the U.S. Department of Education ( )
(d) An administrative head of an education agency as
defined in Section 408 of the Education Amendments
of 1974. ( )
(e) An official of the Iowa Department of Education. ( )
(f) A person connected with the student's application
for, or receipt of, financial aid (SPECIFY DETAILS
ABOVE.) ( )
The undersigned agrees that no other person will have access to any records or information obtained through this request without the written permission of the parents of the student, or the student if the student is of majority age.
(Signature)
(Title)
APPROVED: Date:
Address:
Signature: City:
Title: State: ZIP
Dated: Phone Number:
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 506.1E2
AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF STUDENT RECORDS
The undersigned hereby authorizes Morning Sun Community School District to release copies of the following official student records concerning:
(Full Legal Name of Student) (Date of Birth)
from 19 to 20
(Name of Last School Attended) (Year(s) of Attend.)
The reason for this request is:
My relationship to the child is:
Copies of the records to be released are to be furnished to:
( ) the undersigned
( ) the student
( ) other (please specify)
(Signature)
Date:
Address:
City:
State: ZIP
Phone Number:
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 506.1E3
REQUEST FOR HEARING ON CORRECTION OF STUDENT RECORDS
To: Address:
Board Secretary (Custodian)
I believe certain official student records of my child, (Full Legal Name of Student), Morning Sun Elementary School, are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of privacy or other rights of my child.
The official education records which I believe are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the privacy or other rights of my child are:
The reason I believe such records are inaccurate, misleading or in violation of the privacy or other rights of my child is:
My relationship to the child is:
I understand that I will be notified in writing of the time and place of the hearing; that I will be notified in writing of the decision; and I have the right to appeal the decision by so notifying the hearing officer in writing within ten days after my receipt of the decision.
(Signature)
Date:
Address:
City:
State: ZIP
Phone Number:
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 506.1E4
REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION OF STUDENT RECORDS
To: Address:
Board Secretary (Custodian)
The undersigned desires to examine the following official education records.
of ,
(Full Legal Name of Student) (Date of Birth) (Grade)
(Name of School)
My relationship to the student is:
(check one)
I do
I do not
desire a copy of such records. I understand that a reasonable charge will be made for the copies.
(Signature)
(Title)
APPROVED: Date:
Address:
Signature: City:
Title: State: ZIP
Dated: Phone Number:
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 506.1E5
NOTIFICATION OF TRANSFER OF STUDENT RECORDS
To: Date:
Parent/or Guardian
Street Address:
City/State: ZIP:
Please be notified that copies of the Morning Sun Community School District's official student records concerning , (Full Legal Name of Student) have been transferred to:
School District Name Address
upon the written statement that the student intends to enroll in said school system.
If you desire a copy of such records furnished, please check here and return this form to the undersigned. A reasonable charge will be made for the copies.
If you believe such records transferred are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student, you have the right to a hearing to challenge the contents of such records.
(Name)
(Title)
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Date
Dear ( Parent ) :
This letter is to notify you that the Community School District has received a ( subpoena or court order ) requesting copies of your child's education records.
The specific records requested are .
The school district has until ( date on subpoena or court order ) to deliver the documents to ( requesting party on subpoena or court order ) . If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at ( phone # ) .
Sincerely,
(Principal or Superintendent)
Statement of Purpose: The purpose of this Agreement is to allow for the sharing of information among the School District and the Agencies prior to a student's adjudication in order to promote and collaborate to improve school safety, reduce alcohol and illegal drug use, reduce truancy, reduce in-school and out-of-school suspensions, and to support alternatives to in-school and out-of-school suspensions and expulsions which provide structured and well supervised educational programs supplemented by coordinated and appropriate services designed to correct behaviors that lead to truancy, suspension, and expulsions and to support students in successfully completing their education.
Identification of Agencies: This agreement is between [ insert school district name ] (hereinafter "School District") and [ insert agency ] (hereinafter "Agencies") .
Statutory Authority: This agreement implements Iowa Code § 280.25 and is consistent with 34 C.F.R. 99.38 (2012).
Parameters of Information Exchange:
Records' Transmission: The individual requesting the information should contact the principal of the building in which the student is currently enrolled or was enrolled. The principal will forward the records within a reasonable time following receipt of the request.
Confidentiality: Confidential information shared between the Agencies and the school district will remain confidential and will not be shared with any other person, unless otherwise provided by law. Information shared under the agreement is not admissible in any court proceedings which take place prior to a disposition hearing, unless written consent is obtained from a student's parent. Agencies or individuals violating the terms of this agreement subject their entity represented and themselves personally to legal action pursuant to federal and state law.
Amendments: This agreement constitutes the entire agreement among the agencies with respect to information sharing. Agencies may be added to this agreement at the discretion of the school district.
Term: This agreement is effective from [ insert date ].
Termination: The School District may discontinue information sharing with an Agency if the School District determines that the Agency has violated the intent or letter of this Agreement.
APPROVED:
Signature: Address:
Title: City:
Agency: State / Zip:
Dated: Phone Number:
Signature: Address:
Title: City:
Agency: State / Zip:
Dated: Phone Number:
Signature: Address:
Title: City:
Agency: State / Zip:
Dated: Phone Number:
Signature: Address:
Title: City:
Agency: State / Zip:
Dated: Phone Number:
Code 506.1E8
Annual Notice
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. They are:
1.) The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the district receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2.) The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading or in violation of the student's privacy rights. Parents or eligible students may ask the school district to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the district decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3.) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosures without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, AEA employees, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee or student assistance team, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. Upon request the district discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the parent or eligible student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records on request.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 1 of 2
Code 506.1E8
Annual Notice
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
4.) The right to inform the school district that the parent does not want directory information, as defined below, to be released. Directory information can be released without prior parental consent. Any student over the age of eighteen or parent not wanting this information released to the public must make objection in writing by the first day of school to the principal. The objection needs to be renewed annually.
Name Address Telephone Listing
E-Mail Address Grade Level Enrollment Status
Date & Place of Birth Major Field of Study
Participation in Officially Recognized Activities and Sport
Weight and Height of Members or Athletic Teams
Dates of Attendance Degrees and Awards Received
The Most Recent Previous School or Institution Attended By The Student
Photograph and Likeness and Other Similar Information
Even though names, student addresses and telephone numbers are not considered directory information, military recruiters and post secondary educational institutions may legally access this information without prior parental consent. Parents not wanting military recruiters or post secondary institutions to access the information must ask the school district to withhold the information. Also, school districts that provide post secondary institutions and potential employers access to students must provide the same right of access to military recruiters.
5.) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Ave. SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 2 of 2
Code No. 506.1R1
USE OF STUDENT RECORDS REGULATION
Student records are all official records, files, and data directly related to students, including all material incorporated into each student's cumulative record folder and intended for school use or to be available to parties outside the school or school system specifically including, but not necessarily limited to: date; academic work completed; level of achievement (grades, standardized test scores); attendance data; scores on standardized intelligence, aptitude, and psychological tests; interest inventory results; health data; family background information; teacher or counselor ratings and observations; and verified reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns.
The intent of this regulation is to establish procedures for granting requests from parents for access to their child's records, use of the data, and procedures for its transmittal within forty-five days.
A. Access to Records
1. The parent or legal guardian of a student will have access to these records upon written request to the board secretary.
The parent or legal guardian will, upon written request to the board secretary, have the opportunity to receive an interpretation of the records, have the right to question the data, and, if a difference of opinion is noted, shall be permitted to file a letter in the cumulative folder stating the dissenting person's position. If further challenge is made to the record, the normal appeal procedures established by school policy will be followed.
A student, eighteen years or older, has the right to determine who, outside the school system, has access to the records.
2. School personnel having access to student records are defined as "any person or persons under contract to the school and directly involved in working toward either the affective or cognitive goals of the school."
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 1 of 2
Code No. 506.1R1
USE OF STUDENT RECORDS REGULATION
B. Release of Information Outside the School
1. To release student records to other school(s) in which the student intends to enroll, the parents, legal guardian, or student of majority age must be notified of the transfer and the kinds of information being released.
They will receive a copy of such information if it is requested in writing and shall have the opportunity to challenge the records as described above.
2. Student records may be released to official education and other government agencies only if the names and all identifying markings are removed to prevent the identification of individuals.
3. To release student records to other persons or agencies, written consent shall be given by the parent, legal guardian, or a student of majority age. This consent form will state which records shall be released, to whom they shall be released, and the reason for the release. A copy of the specific records being released will be made available to the person signing the release form if requested.
4. Student records will be furnished in compliance with judicial orders or pursuant to any lawfully issued subpoena if the parents, legal guardian, or student of majority age are notified in advance.
5. Authorization may be disbursed by the administration following (1) proper notification of students and guardians and (2) an opportunity for the student or guardian to request the information not be disbursed. Any request restricting distribution will be honored.
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232g (1988).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 99 (1990).
Iowa Code §§ 22; 622.10 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720, 825.
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
506 Student Records
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS Page 2 of 2
Code No. 506.2
STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION
Student directory information is designed to be used internally within the school district. Directory information is defined in the annual notice. It may include the student's name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, e-mail address, grade level, enrollment status, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student, student ID number, user ID or other unique personal identifier, photograph and other likeness, and other similar information. Student is defined as an enrolled individual, PK-12 including children in school district sponsored child-care programs.
Prior to developing a student directory or to giving general information to the public, parents (including parents of students open enrolled out of the school district and parents of children home schooled in the school district) will be given notice annually of the intent to develop a directory or to give out general information and have the opportunity to deny the inclusion of their child's information in the directory or in the general information about the students.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to provide notice and to determine the method of notice that will inform parents.
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232g (1988).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 99, 560 - 574 (1990).
Iowa Code § 22; 622.10 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 41.20.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720.
Cross Reference: 501.8 Student Attendance Records
506 Student Records
901.1 Public Examination of School District Records
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 10/09/96; 2/22/00; 2/09/11; 3/08/16; 3/9/21 Revised 07/11/12
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 506.2E1
AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASING STUDENT DIRECTORY INFORMATION
The Morning Sun Community School District has adopted a policy designed to assure parents and students the full implementation, protection and enjoyment of their rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. A copy of the school district's policy is available for review in the office of the principal of all of our schools.
This law requires the school district to designate as "directory information" any personally identifiable information taken from a student's educational records prior to making such information available to the public.
The school district has designated the following information as directory information: student's name; address and telephone number; e-mail address; grade level; enrollment status; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; dates of attendance; degrees and awards received; and other similar information. You have the right to refuse the designation of any or all of the categories of personally identifiable information as directory information with respect to your student provided that you notify the school district in writing not later than , 20 of this school year. If you desire to make such a refusal, please complete and return the slip attached to this notice.
If you have no objection to the use of student information for the educational purposes described here, you do not need to take any action.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RETURN THIS FORM
Morning Sun Community School District
Parental Directions to Withhold Student/Directory Information for Education Purposes, for
20 - 20 school year.
Student Name: Date of Birth
School: Grade:
(Signature of Parent/Legal Guardian/Custodian of Child) (Date)
This form must be returned to your child's school no later than , 20 .
Additional forms are available at your child's school.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 506.2R1
USE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION
The student handbook or similar publication given to each student which contains general information about the school shall contain the following statement which shall be published at least annually in a prominent place or in a newspaper of general circulation in the school district:
The following information may be released to the public in regard to any individual student of the school district as needed. Any student over the age of eighteen, parent, or guardian not wanting this information released to the public must make objection in writing by September 15, to the principal. The objection needs to be renewed annually.
NAME, PARTICIPATION IN OFFICIALLY RECOGNIZED ACTIVITIES AND SPORTS, DATES OF ATTENDANCE, DEGREES AND AWARDS RECEIVED, AND OTHER SIMILAR INFORMATION.
DATED , 20 .
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 506.3
STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHS
The board will permit student "portrait" photographs to be taken on school premises by a commercial photographer as a service to the students and their families.
Parents will be notified prior to the taking of pictures by a commercial photographer for student "portraits." In no case will students be required to have their picture taken or be pressured to purchase pictures.
Students or commercial photographers may take pictures of students upon consent for such things as the yearbook or student newspaper.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative rules regarding student photographs.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 114.
Cross Reference: 506 Student Records
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 12/09/96; 2/22/00; 2/09/11; 3/08/16; 3/9/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 506.4
STUDENT LIBRARY CIRCULATION RECORDS
Student library circulation records are designed to be used internally to assist in the orderly administration of the school district libraries. As a general rule, student library circulation records are considered confidential records and will not be released without parental consent. Individuals who may access such records include a student's parents, the student, authorized licensed employees, authorized government officials from the U.S. Comptroller General, the Secretary of Education, the Commissioner and Director of the National Institute of Education, and the Assistant Secretary for Education and State Education Department. Appropriate authorities in a health or safety emergency may access the student's library circulation records without the approval or the notification of the student's parents. Parents may not access records, without the student's permission, of a student who has reached the age of majority or who is attending a post-secondary educational institution unless the student is considered a dependent for tax purposes.
It is the teacher-librarian's responsibility, as the person maintaining the student library circulation records, to approve requests for access to student library circulation records. Students' library circulation records may be accessed during the regular business hours of the school district. If copies of documents are requested, a fee for such copying maybe charged.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the teacher or teacher-librarian, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232g (2004).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 99 (2004).
Iowa Code §§ 22; 622.10 (2007).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), (12)
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 720, 825.
Cross Reference: 506 Student Records
Approved 10/9/07 Reviewed 02/09/11; 3/08/16; 3/9/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 507.1
STUDENT HEALTH AND IMMUNIZATION CERTIFICATES
Students desiring to participate in athletic extracurricular activities or enrolling in kindergarten or first grade in the school district shall have a physical examination by a licensed physician and provide proof of such an examination to the school district. A physical examination and proof of such an examination may be required by the administration for students in other grades enrolling for the first time in the school district.
A certificate of health stating the results of a physical examination and signed by the physician shall be on file at the attendance center. Each student shall submit an up-to-date certificate of health upon the request of the superintendent. Failure to provide this information may be grounds for disciplinary action.
Students enrolling for the first time in the school district shall also submit a certificate of immunization against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, rubeola, rubella, and other immunizations required by law. The student may be admitted conditionally to the attendance center if the student has not yet completed the immunization process but is in the process of doing so. Failure to meet the immunization requirement will be grounds for expulsion. Upon recommendation of the Iowa Department of Education and Iowa Department of Public Health, students entering the district for the first time may be required to pass a TB test prior to admission. The district may conduct TB tests of current students.
Exemptions from the immunization requirement in this policy will be allowed only for medical or religious reasons recognized under the law. The student must provide a valid Iowa State Department of Health Certificate of Immunization Exemption to be exempt from this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 280.13 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 33.5.
641 I.A.C. 7.
Cross Reference: 402.2 Child Abuse Reporting
501 Student Attendance
507 Student Health and Well-Being
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 12/09/96; 3/20/00; 4/10/06; 3/09/11; 4/11/16; 4/6/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Some students may need prescription and nonprescription medication to participate in their educational program.
Medication shall be administered when the student's parent or guardian (hereafter "parent") provides a signed and dated written statement requesting medication administration and the medication is in the original, labeled container, either as dispensed or in the manufacturer's container.
When administration of the medication requires ongoing professional health judgment, an individual health plan shall be developed by licensed health personnel working under the auspice of the school with collaboration from the parent or guardian, individual’s health care provider, or education team pursuant to 281.14.2(256) . Students who have demonstrated competence in administering their own medications may self-administer their medication. A written statement by the student's parent shall be on file requesting co-administration of medication when competence has been demonstrated. By law, students with asthma, airway constricting diseases, respiratory distress, or students at risk of anaphylaxis who use epinephrine auto-injectors may self-administer their medication upon approval of their parents and prescribing physician regardless of competency.
Persons administering medication shall include the licensed registered nurse, physician, persons who have successfully completed a medication administration course conducted by a registered nurse or pharmacist that is provided by the department of education. The medication administration course is completed every five years with an annual procedural skills check completed with a registered nurse or a pharmacist. A record of course completion shall be maintained by the school.
A written medication administration record shall be on file including:
Medication shall be stored in a secured area unless an alternate provision is documented. The development of emergency protocols for medication-related reactions is required. Medication information shall be confidential information as provided by law.
Disposal of unused, discontinued/recalled, or expired abandoned medication shall be in compliance with federal and state law. Prior to disposal school personnel shall make a reasonable attempt to return medication by providing written notification that expired, discontinued, or unused medications need to be picked up. If medication is not picked up by the date specified, disposal shall be in accordance with the disposal procedures for the specific category of medication.
Legal Reference: Disposing on Behalf of Ultimate Users, 79 Fed. Reg. 53520, 53546 (Sept
9, 2014).
Iowa Code §§ 124.101(1); 147.107; 152.1; 155A.4(2); 280.16; 280.23
655 IAC §6.2(152).
281 IAC §14.1, .2
Cross Reference: 506 Student Records
507 Student Health and Well-Being
603.3 Special Education
607.2 Student Health Services
Approved: 1/14/96
Reviewed: 1/11/01; 2/14/08; 1/12/12; 4/11/18
Revised: 4/6/98; 2/12/09; 7/11/22; 7/11/23
Student's Name (Last), (First)(Middle) ______________________________________________
Birthday ___/___/___
School Date ___/___/___
In accordance with applicable laws, students with asthma, airway constricting diseases, respiratory distress or students at risk of anaphylaxis who use epinephrine auto-injectors may self-administer their medication upon the written approval of the student’s parents and prescribing licensed health care professional regardless of competency. The following must occur for a student to self-administer asthma medication, bronchodilator canisters or spacers, other airway constricting disease medication or to self-administer an epinephrine auto-injector:
Provided the above requirements are fulfilled, the school shall permit the self-administration of medication by a student with asthma, respiratory distress, or other airway constricting disease or the use of an epinephrine auto-injector by a student with a risk of anaphylaxis while in school, at school-sponsored activities, under the supervision of school personnel, and before or after normal school activities, such as while in before-school or after-school care on school-operated property. If the student abuses the self-administration policy, the ability to self-administer may be withdrawn by the school or discipline may be imposed, after notification is provided to the student's parent.
Pursuant to state law, the school district and its employees are to incur no liability, except for gross negligence, as a result of any injury arising from self-administration of medication or use of an epinephrine auto-injector by the student. The parent or guardian of the student shall sign a statement acknowledging that the school district is to incur no liability, except for gross negligence, as a result of self-administration of medication or an epinephrine auto-injector by the student as provided by law.
******************************************************************************************************
AUTHORIZATION ASTHMA OR OTHER AIRWAY CONSTRICTING MEDICATION
SELF-ADMINISTRATION CONSENT FORM
Medication Dosage Route Time
Purpose of Medication & Administration Instructions
Special Circumstances
/ /
Discontinue / Re-Evaluate / Follow-up Date
Prescriber's Signature Date ___/___/___
Parent/Guardian Signature ___________________________________
Date ___/___/___(agreed to above statement)
Parent/Guardian Address
Business Phone
Home Phone
Self-Administration Authorization Additional Information
_________________________________ ___/___/___ _________________ ___/___/___
Student's Name (Last), (First), (Middle) Birthday School Date
School medications and special health services are administered following these guidelines:
Prescribed Medication Dosage Route Time at School
Special Health Services and instructions, if indicated:
/ /
Discontinue/Re-Evaluate/Follow-up Date for Prescribed Medication or Special Health Services listed.
/ /
Prescriber’s Signature Date
And credentials (when indicated for health service delivery)
/ /
Parent's Signature Date
Parent's Address Home Phone
Additional Information Business Phone
Code No. 507.3
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES - STUDENTS
Students with a communicable disease will be allowed to attend school provided their presence does not create a substantial risk of illness or transmission to other students or employees. The term "communicable disease" shall mean an infectious or contagious disease spread from person to person, or animal to person, or as defined by law.
Prevention and control of communicable diseases shall be included in the school district's blood borne pathogens exposure control plan. The procedures shall include scope and application, definitions, exposure control, methods of compliance, universal precautions, vaccination, post-exposure evaluation, follow-up, communication of hazards to employees and record keeping. This plan shall be reviewed annually by the superintendent and school nurse.
The health risk to immunodepressed students shall be determined by their personal physician. The health risk to others in the school district environment from the presence of a student with a communicable disease shall be determined on a case-by-case basis by the student's personal physician, a physician chosen by the school district or public health officials.
A student shall notify the superintendent or the school nurse when the student learns the student has a communicable disease. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, when the superintendent or school nurse, upon investigation, has knowledge that a reportable communicable disease is present, to notify the Iowa Department of Public Health. Health data of a student is confidential and it shall not be disclosed to third parties.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the school nurse, to develop administrative regulations stating the procedures for dealing with students with a communicable disease.
Legal Reference: School Board of Nassau County v. Arline, 480 U.S. 273 (1987).
29 U.S.C. §§ 701 et seq. (1988).
45 C.F.R. Pt. 84.3 (1990).
Iowa Code ch. 139 (1993).
641 I.A.C. 1.2-.5, 7.
Cross Reference: 403.1 Employee Physical Examinations
403.3 Communicable Diseases - Employees
506 Student Records
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 12/09/96; 3/20/00; 4/10/06; 3/09/11; 4/11/16; 4/6/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 507.4
STUDENT ILLNESS OR INJURY AT SCHOOL
When a student becomes ill or is injured at school, the school district shall attempt to notify the student's parents as soon as possible.
The school district, while not responsible for medical treatment of an ill or injured student, will have employees present administer emergency or minor first aid if possible. An ill or injured child will be turned over to the care of the parents or qualified medical employees as quickly as possible.
It shall be the responsibility of the principal to file an accident report with the superintendent within twenty-four hours after the student is injured.
Annually, parents shall be required to complete a medical emergency authorization form indicating the procedures to be followed, if possible, in an emergency involving their child. The authorization form will also include the phone numbers of the parents and alternative numbers to call in case of an injury or illness.
The superintendent shall be responsible, in conjunction with the school nurse, to develop rules and regulations governing the procedure in the event a student should become ill or be injured at school.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 613.17 (1993).
Cross Reference: 403.3 Communicable Diseases - Employees
403.1 Employee Physical Examinations
507 Student Health and Well-Being
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 12/09/96; 3/20/00; 4/10/06; 3/09/11; 4/11/16; 4/6/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 507.5
EMERGENCY PLANS AND DRILLS
Students will be informed of the action to take in an emergency. Emergency drills for fire, weather, and other disasters shall be conducted each school year. Fire and tornado drills shall be each conducted regularly during the academic school year with a minimum of two before December 31 and two after January 1.
Employees shall participate in emergency drills. Licensed employees shall be responsible for instructing the proper techniques to be followed in the drill.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 100.31 (1993).
Cross Reference: 507 Student Health and Well-Being
711.07 School Bus Safety Instruction
804 Safety Program
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 12/09/96; 3/20/00; 4/10/06; 3/09/11; 4/11/16; 4/6/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 507.6
STUDENT INSURANCE
Students shall have the opportunity to participate in the health and accident insurance plan selected by the school district. The cost of the health and accident insurance program shall be borne by the student. Participation in the insurance health and accident plan is not a contract with the school district, but rather, a contract between the insurance company and the student.
Students participating in intramural or extracurricular athletics shall be required to have health and accident insurance. The student shall bring written proof of insurance or participate in the health and accident insurance program selected by the school district.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
Cross Reference: 507 Student Health and Well-Being
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 12/09/96; 3/20/00; 4/10/06; 3/09/11; 4/11/16; 4/6/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 507.7
CUSTODY AND PARENTAL RIGHTS
Disagreements between family members are not the responsibility of the school district. The school district will not take the "side" of one family member over another in a disagreement about custody and parental rights. Court orders that have been issued shall be followed by the school district. It shall be the responsibility of the person requesting an action by the school district to inform and provide the school district the court order allowing such action.
This policy does not prohibit an employee from listening to a student's problems and concerns.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure employees remain neutral in a disagreement about custody and parental rights.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 232.67, .70, .73, .75; 235A; 279.8; 710.6 (1993).
441 I.A.C. 9.2, 155, 175.
Cross Reference: 506.1 Student Records Access
507 Student Health and Well-Being
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 12/09/96; 3/20/00; 4/10/06; 3/09/11; 4/11/16; 4/6/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The board recognizes that some special education students need special health services during the school day. These students will receive special health services in conjunction with their individualized health plan.
The superintendent, in conjunction with licensed health personnel, will establish administrative regulations for the implementation of this policy.
Legal Reference: Board of Education v. Rowley, 458 U.S. 176 (1982).
Springdale School District #50 of Washington City v. Grace, 693 F.2d 41 (8th Cir. 1982).
Southeast Warren Community School District v. Department of Public Instruction, 285 N.W.2d 173 (Iowa 1979).
20 U.S.C. §§1400 et seq. (1988).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 300 et seq. (1990).
Iowa Code §§ 256.11(7); 256B; 273.2, .5, .9(2)-(3); 280.8 (1993).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
506 Student Records
603.3 Special Education
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 12/09/96; 3/20/00; 9/13/03; 4/10/06; 4/11/16; 4/6/21 Revised 02/10/09; 12/8/2020
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
507.098R1
SPECIAL HEALTH SERVICES REGULATION
Some students who require special education need special health services in order to participate in the educational program. These students shall receive special health services in accordance with their individualized educational program.
A. Definitions
"Assignment and delegation" - occurs when licensed health personnel, in collaboration with the education team, determine the special health services to be provided and the qualifications of individuals performing the health services. Primary consideration is given to the recommendation of the licensed health personnel. Each designation considers the student's special health service. The rationale, in accordance with licensed practice for the designation is documented. If the designation decision of the team differs from the licensed health professional, team members may file a dissenting opinion in the student's education record.
"Co-administration" - the eligible student's participation in the planning, management and implementation of the student's special health service and demonstration of proficiency to licensed health personnel.
"Educational program" - includes all school curricular programs and activities both on and off school grounds.
"Education team" - may include the eligible student, the student's parent, administrator, teacher, licensed health personnel, and others involved in the student's educational program, or as described in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973..
"Health assessment" - health data collection, observation, analysis, and interpretation relating to the eligible student's educational program.
"Health instruction" - education by licensed health personnel to prepare qualified designated personnel to deliver and perform special health services contained in the eligible student's health plan. Documentation of education and periodic updates shall be on file at school.
"Individual health plan" - the confidential, written, preplanned and ongoing special health service in the educational program. It includes assessment, nursing diagnosis, outcomes, planning, interventions, evaluation, student goals if applicable, and a plan for emergencies. The plan is updated as needed and at least annually. Licensed health personnel develop this written plan with collaboration from the parent or guardian, individual's health care provider or education team.
"Licensed health personnel" - includes licensed registered nurse, licensed physician, and other licensed health personnel legally authorized to provide special health services and medications under the auspices of the school.
"Prescriber" - licensed health personnel legally authorized to prescribe special health services and medications.
"Qualified designated personnel" - persons instructed, supervised and competent in implementing the eligible student's health plan.
"Special health services" - includes, but is not limited to, services for eligible students whose health status (stable or unstable) requires:
Interpretation or intervention,
Administration of health procedures and health care, or
Use of a health device to compensate for the reduction or loss of a body function.
"Supervision" - the assessment, delegation, evaluation and documentation of special health services by licensed health personnel. Levels of supervision include situations in which licensed health personnel are:
* physically present.
* available at the same site.
* available on call.
B. Licensed health personnel shall provide special health services under the auspices of the school. Duties of the licensed personnel include the duty to:
Participate as a member of the education team.
Provide the health assessment.
Plan, implement and evaluate the written individual health plan.
Plan, implement and evaluate special emergency health services.
Serve as liaison and encourage participation and communication with health service agencies and individuals providing health care.
Provide health consultation, counseling and instruction with the eligible student, the student's parent and the staff in cooperation and conjunction with the prescriber.
Maintain a record of special health services. The documentation includes the eligible student's name, special health service, prescriber or person authorizing, date and time, signature and title of the person providing the special health service and any unusual circumstances in the provision of such services.
Report unusual circumstances to the parent, school administration, and prescriber.
Assign and delegate to, instruct, provide technical assistance and supervise qualified designated personnel.
Update knowledge and skills to meet special health service needs.
C. Prior to the provision of special health services the following shall be on file:
Written statement by the prescriber detailing the specific method and schedule of the special health service, when indicated.
Written statement by the student's parent requesting the provision of the special health service.
Written report of the preplanning staffing or meeting of the education team.
Written individual health plan available in the health record and integrated into the Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) or Individual Family Services Plan (IFSP).
D. Licensed health personnel, in collaboration with the education team, shall determine the special health services to be provided and the qualifications of individuals performing the special health services. The documented rationale shall include the following:
Analysis and interpretation of the special health service needs, health status stability, complexity of the service, predictability of the service outcome and risk of improperly performed service.
Determination that the special health service, task, procedure or function is part of the person's job description.
Determination of the assignment and delegation based on the student's needs and qualifications of school personnel performing health services.
Review of the designated person's competency.
Determination of initial and ongoing level of supervision, monitoring and evaluation required to ensure quality services.
E. Licensed health personnel shall supervise the special health services, define the level and frequency of supervision and document the supervision.
F. Licensed health personnel shall instruct qualified designated personnel to deliver and perform special health services contained in the eligible individual health plan. Documentation of instruction, written consent of personnel as required in Iowa Code 280.23, and periodic updates shall be on file at school.
G. Parents shall provide the usual equipment, supplies and necessary maintenance for such, unless the school is required to provide the equipment, supplies, and maintenance under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.. The equipment shall be stored in a secure area. The personnel responsible for the equipment shall be designated in the individual health plan. The individual health plan shall designate the role of the school, parents, and others in the provision, supply, storage and maintenance of necessary equipment.
Code No. 507.09
WELLNESS POLICY
The board promotes healthy students by supporting wellness, good nutrition and regular physical activity as a part of the total learning environment. The school district supports a healthy environment where students learn and participate in positive dietary and lifestyle practices. By facilitating learning through the support and promotion of good nutrition and physical activity, schools contribute to the basic health status of students. Improved health optimizes student performance potential.
The school district provides a comprehensive learning environment for developing and practices lifelong wellness behaviors. The entire school environment, not just the classroom, shall be aligned with healthy school district goals to positively influence a student's understanding, beliefs and habits as they relate to good nutrition and regular physical activity.
The school district supports and promotes proper dietary habits contributing to students' health status and academic performance. All food available on school grounds and at school-sponsored activities during the instructional day should meet or exceed the school district nutrition standards and in compliance with state and federal law. Foods should be served with consideration toward nutritional integrity, variety, appeal, taste, safety and packaging to ensure high-quality meals.
The school district will make every effort to eliminate any social stigma attached to, and prevent the overt identification of, students who are eligible for free and reduced - price meals. Toward this end, the school district may utilize electronic identification and payment systems; provide meals at no charge to all children, regardless of income; promote the availability of meals to all students; and/or use nontraditional methods for serving meals, such as "grab-and-go" of classroom breakfast.
The school district will develop a local wellness policy committee comprised of representatives of the board, parents, leaders in food/exercise authority and employees. The local wellness policy committee will develop a plan to implement the local wellness policy and periodically review and update the policy. The committee will designate an individual to monitor implementation and evaluation the implementation of the policy. The committee will report annually to the board and community regarding the content and effectiveness of this policy and recommend updates if needed. When monitoring implementation, schools will be evaluated individually with reports prepared by each school and the school district as a whole. The report will include which schools are in compliance with this policy, the extent to which this policy compares to model Wellness policies and describe the progress made in achieving the goals of this policy
** Specific Wellness Goals
• specific goals nutrition education and promotion, (appendix A)
• physical activity (appendix B)
• other school-based activities that are designed to promote student wellness
The nutrition guidelines for all foods available will focus on promoting student health and reducing childhood obesity (insert specific guidelines (appendix D)
The board will monitor and evaluate this policy by (appendix E)
Code No. 507.09
Page 2 of 2
WELLNESS POLICY
Approved 06/12/06 Reviewed 03/09/11; 10/21/15; 4/11/16; 4/6/21 Revised 08/11/10; 7/11/12; 4/9/19
Legal Reference: Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, 42U.S.C. 1751 etseq (2005)
Child Nutrition Act of 1966, 42 U.S.C. 1771 et seq.,
Iowa Code 256.7(29), 256.11(6)
281 IAC 12.5(19), 12.5 (20), 58.11
Cross Reference: 504.6 Student Activity Program
710 School Food Services
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No.507.09
Appendix A
NUTRITION EDUCATION AND PROMOTION
The school district will provide nutrition education and engage in nutrition promotion that:
Code No. 507.09
Appendix B
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Daily Physical Education
The school district will provide physical education that:
(The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends at least 150 minutes a week for elementary students and 225 minutes a week for middle and high school students);
Daily Recess
Elementary schools should provide recess for students that:
When activities, such as mandatory school-wide testing, make it necessary for students to remain indoors for long periods of time, schools should give students periodic breaks during which they are encouraged to stand and be moderately active.
Physical Activity and Punishment
Employees should not use physical activity (e.g. running laps, pushups) or withhold opportunities for physical activity (e.g. recess, physical education) as punishment.
Code No. 507.09
Appendix C
Page 1 of 2
OTHER SCHOOL -BASED ACTIVITIES THAT PROMOTE STUDENT WELLNESS
Integrating Physical Activity into Classroom Settings
For students to receive the nationally recommended amount of daily physical activity and for students to fully embrace regular physical activity as a personal behavior, students need opportunities for physical activity beyond the physical education class. Toward that end, the school district will:
Optional Issues
Communication with Parents
The school district will support parents' efforts to provide a healthy diet and daily physical activity for their children. The school district will:
Food Marketing in Schools
Morning Sun Community School District promotes the sale and advertisement of healthy foods and beverages.
Code No. 507.09
Appendix C
Page 2 of 2
Code No. 507.09
Appendix D
Page 1 of 4
NUTRITION GUIDELINES FOR ALL FOODS AVAILABLE ON CAMPUS
School Meals
Meals served through the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs will:
Schools should:
Breakfast
To ensure that all children have breakfast, either at home or at school, in order to meet their nutritional needs and enhance their ability to learn, schools will:
• operate the breakfast program, to the extent possible;
Free and Reduced-Priced Meals
The school district will make every effort to eliminate any social stigma attached to, and prevent the overt identification of, students who are eligible for free and reduced-price meals. Toward this end, the school district may:
• utilize electronic identification and payment systems;
• provide meals at no charge to all children, regardless of income; and,
• promote the availability of meals to all students.
Code No. 507.09
Appendix D
Page 2 of 4
Meal Times and Scheduling
The school district:
Qualification of Food Service Staff
Qualified nutrition professionals will administer the meal programs. As part of the school district's responsibility to operate a food service program, the school district will:
Sharing of Foods
The school district discourages students from sharing their foods or beverages with on another during meal or snack times, given concerns about allergies and other restrictions on some children's diets.
Foods Sold Outside the Meal (e.g. vending, a la carte, sales)
All foods and beverages sold individually outside the reimburseable meal programs (including those sold through a la carte (snack) lines, vending machines, student stores or fundraising activities) during the school day, or through programs for students after the school day will meet nutrition standards as required by state and federal law. For current state guidelines, go to http://tinyurl.com/Iowa-HKA.
Code No. 507.09
Appendix D
Page 3 of 4
Fundraising Activities
There are two types of fundraising – regulated and other. Regulated fundraisers are those that offer the sale of foods and beverages on school property and that are targeted primarily to PK-12 students by or through other PK-12 students, student groups, school organizations, or through on-campus school stores. Regulated fundraising activities must comply with the state nutrition guidelines. All other fundraising activities are encouraged, but not required, to comply with the state nutrition guidelines if the activities involve foods and beverages.
Snacks
Snacks served during the school day or in after-school care or enrichment programs will make a positive contribution to children's diets and health, with an emphasis on serving fruits and vegetables as the primary snacks and water as the primary beverage. Schools will assess if and when to offer snacks based on timing of meals, children's nutritional needs, children's ages and other considerations. The school district will disseminate a list of healthful snack items to teachers, after-school program personnel and parents.
If eligible, schools that provide snacks through after-school programs will pursue receiving reimbursements through the National School Lunch Program.
Rewards
The school district will not use foods or beverages, especially those that do not meet the nutrition standards for foods and beverages sold individually, as rewards for academic performance or good behavior, and will not withhold food or beverages (including food served through meals) as a punishment.
Celebrations
Schools should evaluate their celebrations practices that involve food during the school day. The school district will disseminate a list of healthy party ideas to parents and teachers.
School-Sponsored Events
Foods and beverages offered or sold at school-sponsored events outside the school day are encouraged to meet the nutrition standards for meals or for foods and beverages sold individually.
Food Safety
All foods made available on campus adhere to food safety and security guidelines.
Code 507.09
Appendix D
Page 4 of 4
• All foods made available on campus comply with the state and local food safety and sanitation regulations. Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans and guidelines are implemented to prevent food illness in schools.
http://www.fns.usda.gov/tn/resources/servingsafe_chapter6.pdf
• For the safety and security of the food and facility, access to the food service operations are limited to child nutrition staff and authorized personnel.
Summer Meals
Schools in which more than 50 percent of students are eligible for free or reduced-price meals will sponsor the Summer Food Service Program for at least six weeks between the last day of the academic school year and the first day of the following school year, and, preferably, throughout the entire summer vacation.
Code No. 507.09
Appendix E
PLAN FOR MEASURING IMPLEMENTATION
Monitoring
The superintendent will ensure compliance with established school district-wide nutrition and physical activity wellness policies.
In each school:
In the school district:
Policy Review
To help with the initial development of the school district's wellness policies, each school in the school district will conduct a baseline assessment of the school's existing nutrition and physical activity environments and practices. The results of those school-by-school assessments will be compiled at the school district level to identify and prioritize needs.
Assessments will be repeated every 3 years to help review policy compliance, assess progress and determine areas in need of improvement. As part of that review, the school district will review the nutrition and physical activity policies and the provision of an environment that supports healthy eating and physical activity. The school district, and individual schools within the school district will, revise the wellness policies and develop work plans to facilitate their implementation.
Code No. 508.1
CLASS OR STUDENT GROUP GIFTS
The board welcomes gifts to the school district from a class or student group. While class gifts to the school district do not require the approval of the superintendent, the board encourages students to consult with the superintendent or other licensed employees prior to selecting a gift for the school district.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 68B; 722.1, .2 (1993).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 12/09/96; 4/10/00; 5/08/06; 4/13/11; 5/10/16; 5/11/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 508.2
OPEN NIGHT
In keeping with good community relations, student school activities will not be scheduled on Wednesday night whenever possible. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to oversee the scheduling of school activities for compliance with this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
Cross Reference:
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 12/09/96; 4/10/00; 5/08/06; 4/13/11; 5/10/16; 5/11/21 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS