Code No. 600
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE EDUCATION PROGRAM
This series of the board policy manual is devoted to the goals and objectives for the delivery of the education program. The board's objective in the design, contents and the delivery of the education program is to provide an equal opportunity for students to pursue an education free of discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, national origin, marital status, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, socioeconomic status or disability.
In providing the education program of the school district the board will strive to meet its overall goal of providing the students an opportunity to develop a healthy social, intellectual, emotional, and physical self-concept in a learning environment that provides guidance and encourages critical thinking in students.
In striving to meet this overall goal, the objectives of the education program shall be to provide students with an opportunity to:
• Acquire basic skills in obtaining information, solving problems, thinking critically and communicating effectively;
• Become effective and responsible contributors to the decision-making processes of the social and political institutions of the community, state and nation;
• Acquire entry-level job skills and knowledge necessary for further education;
• Acquire the capacities for a satisfying and responsible role as family members;
• Acquire knowledge, habits and attitudes that promote personal and public health, both physical and mental;
• Acquire an understanding of ethical principles and values and the ability to apply them to their own lives;
• Develop an understanding of their own worth, abilities, potential and limitations; and,
• Learn and enjoy the process of learning and acquire the skills necessary for a lifetime of continuous learning and adaptation to change.
An advisory committee of representatives of the school district community and the school district is appointed to make recommendations for the goals and objectives of the education program. Annually, the board will report to the committee regarding progress toward the achievement of the goals and objectives of the education program.
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 11/11/09; 11/12/14; 12/9/2019 Revised 09/20/04; 8/13/07
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The school calendar will accommodate the education program of the school district. The school calendar is for a minimum of 180 days or 1080 hours and include, but not be limited to, the days for student instruction, staff development, in-service days and teacher conferences. Each year the minimum school calendar may include up to 5 days or 30 hours of instruction delivered primarily over the internet.
The academic school year for students is for a minimum of one-hundred and eighty days or 1080 hours in the school calendar. The academic school year for students shall begin no sooner than August 23. Employees may be required to report to work at the school district prior to this date.
Special education students may attend school on a school calendar different from that of the regular education program consistent with their Individualized Education Program.
The board, in its discretion, may excuse graduating seniors from up to five days of instruction after the school district requirements for graduation have been met. The board may also excuse graduating seniors from making up days missed due to inclement weather if the student has met the school district’s graduation requirements.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the school calendar for recommendation, approval, and adoption by the board annually.
The board may amend the official school calendar when the board considers the change to be in the best interests of the school district's education program. The board shall hold a public hearing on any proposed school calendar prior to adopting the school calendar.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 20.9; 279.10, 280.3 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.2(1).
Cross Reference: 501.3 Compulsory Attendance
601.2 School Day
Approved: 8/23/94
Reviewed: 11/11/09; 11/12/14; 12/9/19
Revised: 07/09/14; 5/13/15; 7/11/23
The student school day for grades one through twelve shall consist of a minimum of five and one-half hours, not including the lunch period. The school day consists of the schedule of class instruction and class activities as established and sponsored by the school district. Time during which students are released from school for parent/teacher conferences may be counted as part of the student's instructional time. The minimum school day shall meet the requirements as established for the operation of accredited schools.
The board may define the number of days kindergarten will be held and the length of each school day for the students attending kindergarten. The school day shall consist of a schedule as recommended by the superintendent and approved by the board.
The Morning Sun Community School District may also record a day of school with less than the minimum instructional hours if the total hours of instructional time for grades one through twelve in any five consecutive school days equals a minimum of twenty-seven and one-half hours, even though any one day of school is less than the minimum instructional hours because of a staff development opportunity provided for the instructional staff or parent-teacher conferences have been scheduled beyond the regular school day. If the total hours of instructional time for the first four consecutive days equal at least twenty-seven and one-half hours because parent-teacher conferences have been scheduled beyond the regular school day, the school district may record zero hours of instructional time on the fifth consecutive school day as a school day. Schedule revisions and changes in time allotments will be made by the superintendent.
When the school is forced to close due to weather or other emergencies that part of the day during which school was in session will constitute a school day. The superintendent will create administrative regulations necessary to utilize any remote learning opportunities that are available and permitted by law during the period of closure. The provision of special education and accommodations for students who have individualized education programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans during periods of closure will be determined by each respective IEP or Section 504 team.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to inform the board annually of the length of the school day.
Legal Reference: 34 C.F.R. sec. 300
23 C.F.R. pt. 35
Iowa Code 256.7, 279.8,.10.
281 I.A.C. 12.1(1),.(7-10)
Cross Reference: 601.1 School Calendar
Approved: Aug. 17, 1995
Reviewed: June 8, 2000; 5-14-2007
Revised: Nov. 14, 1996; 8/19/2020; 10/18/22
Curriculum development is an ongoing process in the school district and consists of both research and design. Research is the studious inquiry and critical investigation of the various content areas for the purpose of revising and improving curriculum and instruction based on relevant information pertaining to the discipline. This study is conducted both internally (what and how we are currently doing at the local level) and externally (what national standards, professional organization, recognized experts, current research, etc. tell us relative to the content area). Design is the deliberate process of planning and selecting the standards and instructional strategies that will improve the learning experiences for all students. The board delegates the curriculum development process to the Superintendent, who will make curriculum development recommendation and submit them to the board for final approval.
A systematic approach to curriculum development (careful research, design, and articulation of the curriculum) serves several purposes:
The superintendent is responsible for curriculum development and for determining the most effective method of conducting research and design activities. A curriculum framework will describe the processes and procedures that will be followed in researching, designing, and articulating each curriculum area. This framework will at a minimum, describe the processes and procedures for the following curriculum development activities to:
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of necessary curriculum revisions, progress, or each content area related to curriculum development activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum development including recommendations to the board.
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. 1232h
34 C.F. R. pt. 98
Iowa Code 216.9; 256.7; 279.8; 280.3
281 I.A.C. 12.5, .8.
Cross Reference: 101 Educational Philosophy of the School District
103 Long-Range Needs Assessment
602 Curriculum Development
603 Instructional Curriculum
604.10 On-Line Courses
605 Instructional Materials
Approved: 07/14/2000
Reviewed: 01/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/20; 10/18/22
Revised:
Without careful and continuing attention to implementation, planned changes in curriculum and instruction rarely succeed as intended. How change is put into practice, to a large extent, determines how well it fares.
Implementation refers to what actually happens in practice as compared to what was supposed to happen. Curriculum implementation includes the provision of organized assistance to staff in order to ensure that the newly developed curriculum and the most powerful instructional strategies are actually delivered at the classroom level. There are two components of any implementation effort that must be present to guarantee the planned changed in curriculum and instruction succeed as intended.
The Superintendent is responsible for curriculum implementation and for determining the most effective way of providing organized assistance and monitoring the level of implementation. A curriculum framework will describe the processes and procedures that will be followed to assist all staff in developing the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully implement the developed curriculum in each content area. This framework will, at a minimum, describe the processes and procedures for the following curriculum implementation activities to:
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of curriculum implementation activities, progress of each content area related to curriculum implementation activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum implementation including recommendations to the board.
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232h
34 C.F.R. pt 98
Iowa Code §§ 216.9, 256.7, 279.8, 74, 280.3
281 I.A.C. 12.8
Cross Reference: 101—Educational Philosophy of the School District
103—Long-Rage Needs Assessment
505—Student Scholastic Achievement
602—Curriculum Development
603—Instructional Curriculum
Approved: 7/17/00
Reviewed: 01/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/20
Revised: 11/7/22
Code No. 602.3
CURRICULUM EVALUATION
Regular evaluation of the total curriculum is necessary to ensure that the written and delivered curriculum is having the desired effect for students.
Curriculum evaluation refers to an ongoing process of collecting, analyzing, synthesizing, and interpreting information to aid in understanding what students know and can do. It refers to the full range of information gathered in the School District to evaluate (make judgments about) student learning and program effectiveness in each content area.
Curriculum evaluation must be based on information gathered from a comprehensive assessment system that is designed for accountability and committed to the concept that all students will achieve at high levels, is standards-based, and informs decisions which impact significant and sustainable improvements in teaching and student learning
The superintendent shall be responsible for curriculum evaluation and for determining the most effective way of ensuring that assessment activities are integrated into instructional practices as part of school improvement with a particular focus on improving teaching and learning. A curriculum framework the procedures that will be followed to establish an evaluation process that can efficiently and effectively the total curriculum. This framework will, at a minimum, describe the procedures for the following curriculum evaluation activities:
• Identify specific purposes for assessing student learning;
• Develop a comprehensive assessment plan;
• Select/develop assessment tools and scoring procedures that are valid and reliable;
• Identify procedures for establishing at least three levels of performance (specific to the content and the assessment tool when appropriate) to assist in determining whether students have achieved at a satisfactory level (at least two levels describe performance that is proficient or advanced and at least one level describes students who are not yet performing at the proficient level);
• Identify procedures for using assessment information to determine long-range and annual improvement goals;
• Identify procedures for using assessment information in making decisions focused on improving teaching and learning (data based decision making);
• Verify that assessment tools are fair for all students and are consistent with all state and federal mandates.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of curriculum evaluation activities, the progress of each content area related to curriculum evaluation activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum evaluation including recommendations to the board.
Approved 7/17/00 Reviewed 01/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Page 1 of 2
Code No. 602.3
CURRICULUM EVALUATION
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232h (1994).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (1996).
Iowa Code §§ 216.9, 256.7, 279.8; 280.3-.14 (1999).
281 I.A.C. 12.8(1)(c)(1).
Cross Reference: 101 Mission and Educational Philosophy of the School District
103 Long-Range Needs Assessment
505 Student Scholastic Achievement
602 Curriculum Development
603 Instructional Curriculum
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Page 2 of 2
Code No. 602.3E1
CURRICULUM REVISION CYCLE - FIVE YEAR PLAN
1994-95 1995-96 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99
Reading R I E E R
Language Arts E I R R I
Math E E R R I
Science I E E R R
Social Studies R I E E R
Art R I E E R
Music E R I E E
P.E. E E R I E
Foreign Language I E E R I
Yearly Revisions
Talented and Gifted
Library Skills
Computer Instruction
R = Revise/Study
I = Incorporate revisions
E = Evaluate and make adjustments
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 602.4
PILOT - EXPERIMENTAL - INNOVATIVE PROJECTS
The board welcomes new ideas in curriculum. Proposals for pilot or experimental projects shall first be reviewed and analyzed by the superintendent. Projects recommended by the superintendent will be considered by the board. Pilot and experimental projects approved by the board, the Iowa Department of Education, or the U. S. Department of Education may be utilized in the education program.
Students, who may be or are asked to participate in a research or experimental project or program, must have their parents' written consent on file prior to participating in the project or program. A research or experimental program or project requiring parents' prior written consent is a program or project designed to explore or develop new or unproven teaching methods or techniques. These programs or projects shall be designated as research or experimental projects or programs. The educational materials of a program or project designated as a research or experimental program or project may be inspected and reviewed by the parents of the students participating or being considered for participation in the program or project. The inspection and review by the parents shall be in accordance with board policy 605.2, "Instructional Materials Inspection."
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232h (1988).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (1990).
Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .10; 280.3-.14 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.5.
Cross Reference: 102 Equal Educational Opportunity
505 Student Scholastic Achievement
602 Curriculum Development
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 01/13/97; 10/09/00; 1/10/05; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The basic instruction program shall include the courses required for each grade level by the State Department of Education. The instructional approach will be nonsexist and multicultural.
The basic instruction program of students enrolled in kindergarten shall be designed to develop healthy emotional and social habits, language arts and communication skills, the capacity to complete individual tasks, and the ability to protect and increase physical well-being with attention given to experiences relating to the development of life skills and human growth and development.
The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades one through six shall include English-language arts, social studies including instruction related to civics, mathematics, science, health, human growth and development, physical education, traffic safety, music, visual art, and computer science. Computer science will be offered during at least one grade level.
The board may, in its discretion, offer additional courses in the instruction program for any grade level.
Each instruction program shall be carefully planned for optimal benefit taking into consideration the financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the board or superintendent. Each instruction program's plan should describe the program, its goals, the effective materials, the activities and the method for student evaluation.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations stating the required courses and optional courses for kindergarten and grades one through six.
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1232h
34 C.F.R. Pt. 98
Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.11; 279.8; 280.3-.14
281 I.A.C. 12.5.
Cross Reference: 102 Equal Educational Opportunity
103 Long-Range Needs Assessment
505 Student Scholastic Achievement
602 Curriculum Development
603 Instructional Curriculum
Approved: 8/23/94
Reviewed: 02/10/97; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020
Revised: 12/8/2020; 7/9/24
Code No. 603.2
SUMMER SCHOOL INSTRUCTION
The Morning Sun Elementary School recognizes the importance of ongoing learning opportunities for students. As such, the district shall offer summer school instruction in accordance with the following:
• Beginning in the summer of 2017, the district shall offer, unless a waiver from this requirement is granted by the Iowa Department of Education, an intensive summer literacy program for students assessed as exhibiting a substantial deficiency in reading. The applicable legal requirements for the intensive summer literacy program, including, but not limited to those relating to criteria and notification, shall be followed.
• The board, in its discretion, may offer summer school for one or more courses and student activities for students who need additional help and instruction or for enrichment in those areas. Upon receiving a request for summer school, the board will weigh the benefit to the students and the school district as well as the school district's budget and availability of licensed employees to conduct summer school.
• If a child who is eligible for special education has been determined to need extended school year services as necessary to receive a free appropriate public education, as determined according to state and federal law, such services shall be provided as described in the child’s individualized education program.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .11, .68; 280.3; 282.6 (2015).
28 I.A.C. 41.106 (2015).
Cross Reference: 410.2 Summer School Licensed Employees
505.2 Student Promotion – Retention – Acceleration
603 Instructional Curriculum
711.4 Summer School Transportation
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 02/10/97; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised 08/11/15
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The board recognizes some students have different educational needs than other students. The board will provide a free appropriate education program and related services to students identified in need of special education. The special education services will be provided from birth until the appropriate education is completed, age twenty-one or to maximum age allowable in accordance with the law. Students requiring special education will attend general education classes, participate in nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities and receive services in a general education setting to the maximum extent appropriate to the needs of each student. The appropriate education for each student is written in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Special education students are required to meet the requirements listed for special education students in board policy and in their IEPs for graduation. It is the responsibility of the superintendent and the area education agency director of special education to provide or make provisions for appropriate special education and related services.
Children from birth through age 2 and children age 3 through 5 are provided comprehensive special education services within the public education system. The school district will work in conjunction with the area education agency to provide services, at the earliest appropriate time, to children with disabilities from birth through age 2. This is done to ensure a smooth transition of children entitles to early childhood special education services.
Legal Reference: Board of Education v. Rowley, 458 U.S. 176 (1982).
Springdale School District #50 v. Grace, 693 F.2d 41 (8th Cir. 1982).
Southeast Warren 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; 273.1, .2, .5, .9(2)-(3); 280.8 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 41.
Cross Reference: 503 Student Discipline
506 Student Records
507.2 Administration of Medication
507.8 Student Special Health Services
601.1 School Calendar
603 Instructional Curriculum
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 01/20/97; 9/13/00; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised 02/10/09; 12/8/2020
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 603.4
MULTICULTURAL AND NONSEXIST EDUCATION
Students shall have an equal opportunity for a quality education without discrimination, regardless of their race, religion, socioeconomic status, color, sex, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.
The education program shall be free of discrimination and provide equal opportunity for the students. The education program shall foster knowledge of and respect and appreciation for the historical and contemporary contributions of diverse cultural groups, as well as men and women, to society. Special emphasis shall be placed on Asian Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans and persons with disabilities. It shall also reflect the wide variety of roles open to both men and women and provide equal opportunity to both sexes.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.11 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.5(8).
Cross Reference: 102 Equal Educational Opportunity
505 Student Scholastic Achievement
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 01/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised 3/13/2006;
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Students in grade levels one through six shall receive, as part of their health education, instruction about personal health; food and nutrition; environmental health; safety and survival skills; consumer health; family life; human growth and development; substance abuse and non-use, including the effects of alcohol, tobacco, drugs and poisons on the human body; human sexuality; self-esteem; stress management; interpersonal relationships; emotional and social health; health resources; prevention and control of disease; communicable diseases, including sexually transmitted diseases and current crucial health issues. The purpose of the health education program is to help each student protect, improve and maintain physical, emotional and social well-being.
The areas stated above shall be included in health education and the instruction shall be adapted at each grade level to aid understanding by the students.
Parents who object to health education instruction in human growth and development may file a written request that the student be excused from the instruction. The written request may include a proposed alternate activity or study acceptable to the superintendent. The superintendent shall have the final authority to determine an alternate activity or study.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 256.11; 279.8; 280.3-.14 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.5.
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
503 Student Discipline
603 Instructional Curriculum
Approved: 8/23/94
Reviewed: 02/10/97; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020
Revised: 7/11/23
Code No. 603.5E1
HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT STUDENT EXCUSE FORM
Student Name: Grade:
Parent/Guardian: Phone #:
Please list the curricular objective(s) from which you wish to have your child excused and the class or grade in which each is taught. An example is provided for you to follow.
Objective Class/Grade
Ex. To understand the consequences of Health Education/6
responsible and irresponsible sexual
behavior.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
I have reviewed the Human Growth and Development program goals, objectives, and materials and wish my child to be excused from class when these objectives are taught. I understand my child will incur no penalty but may be required to complete an alternative assignment that relates to the class and is consistent with assignments required of all students in the class.
Signed: Date:
(Parent or Guardian)
Signed: Date:
(School Administrator)
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 603.6
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Students in grades one through six shall be required to participate in physical education courses unless they are excused by the principal of their attendance center.
Students may be excused from physical education courses if the student presents a written statement from a doctor stating that such activities could be injurious to the health of the student.
Students who will not participate in physical education must have a written request or statement from their parents.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 256.11 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.5.
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
603 Instructional Curriculum
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 02/10/97; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 603.7
CAREER EDUCATION
Preparing students for careers is one goal of the education program. Career education will be written into the education program for grades kindergarten through six. This education shall include, but not be limited to, awareness of self in relation to others and the needs of society, exploration of employment opportunities, experiences in personal decision-making, and experiences of integrating work values and work skills into their lives.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to assist licensed employees in finding ways to provide career education in the education program. Special attention should be given to courses of vocational education nature. The board, in its review of the curriculum, shall review the means in which career education is combined with other instructional programs.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A; 280.9 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.5(7).
Cross Reference: 603 Instructional Curriculum
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 02/10/97; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 603.8
TEACHING ABOUT RELIGION
The school district is required to keep the practice of religion out of the school curriculum. The board recognizes the key role religion has played in the history of the world and authorizes the study of religious history and traditions as part of the curriculum. Preferential or derogatory treatment of a single religion shall not take place.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure the study of religion in the schools in keeping with the following guidelines:
• the proposed activity must have a secular purpose;
• the primary objective of the activity must not be one that advances or inhibits religion; and
• the activity must not foster excessive governmental entanglement with religion.
Legal Reference: U.S. Const. amend. I.
Lee v. Weisman. 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992).
Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602 (1971).
Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County, 608 F.Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985).
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.6 (1993).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
603 Instructional Curriculum
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 02/10/97; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 603.8R1
TEACHING ABOUT RELIGION REGULATIONS--RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS
Religious Holidays
The historical and contemporary significance of religious holidays may be included in the education program provided that the instruction is presented in an unbiased and objective manner. The selection of holidays to be studied shall take into account major celebrations of several world religions, not just those of a single religion. Holiday-related activities shall be educationally sound and sensitive to religious differences and shall be selected carefully to avoid the excessive or unproductive use of school time. Teachers shall be especially careful in planning activities that are to take place immediately preceding or on a religious holiday.
Music, art, literature and drama having religious themes (including traditional carols, seasonal songs and classical music) shall be permitted if presented in an objective manner without sectarian indoctrination. The emphasis on religious themes shall be only as extensive as necessary for a balanced and comprehensive study or presentation. Religious content included in student performances shall be selected on the basis of its independent educational merit and shall seek to give exposure to a variety of religious customs, beliefs and forms of expression. Holiday programs, parties or performances shall not become religious celebrations or be used as a forum for religious worship, such as the devotional reading of sacred writings or the recitations of prayers.
The use of religious symbols (e.g. a cross, menorah, crescent, Star of David, lotus blossom, nativity scene or other symbol that is part of a religious ceremony) shall be permitted as a teaching aid, but only when such symbols are used temporarily and objectively to give information about a heritage associated with a particular religion. The Christmas tree, Santa Claus, Easter eggs, Easter bunnies and Halloween decorations are secular, seasonal symbols and as such can be displayed in a seasonal context.
Expressions of belief or non-belief initiated by individual students shall be permitted in composition, art forms, music, speech and debate. However, teachers may not require projects or activities which are indoctrinational or force students to contradict their personal religious beliefs or non-beliefs.
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 02/10/97; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 603.9
ACADEMIC FREEDOM
The board believes students should have an opportunity to reach their own decisions and beliefs about conflicting points of view. Academic freedom is the opportunity of licensed employees and students to study, investigate, present, interpret, and discuss facts and ideas relevant to the subject matter of the classroom and appropriate to and in good taste with the maturity and intellectual and emotional capacities of the students.
It shall be the responsibility of the teacher to refrain from advocating partisan causes, sectarian religious views, or biased positions in the classroom or through teaching methods. Teachers are not discouraged from expressing personal opinions as long as students are aware it is a personal opinion and students are allowed to reach their own conclusions independently.
It shall be the responsibility of the principal to ensure academic freedom is allowed but not abused in the classroom.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .6 (1993).
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
603 Instructional Curriculum
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 02/10/97; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
A "controversial issue" is a topic of significant academic inquiry about which substantial groups of citizens of this community, this state or this nation hold sincere, conflicting points of view.
It is the belief of the board that controversial issues should be fairly presented in a spirit of honest academic freedom so that students may recognize the validity of other points of view but can also learn to formulate their own opinions based upon dispassionate, objective, unbiased study and discussion of the facts related to the controversy.
It is the responsibility of the instructor to present full and fair opportunity and means for students to study, consider and discuss all sides of controversial issues including, but not limited to, political philosophies.
It is the responsibility of the instructor to protect the right of the student to study pertinent controversial issues within the limits of good taste and to allow the student to express personal opinions without jeopardizing the student's relationship with the teacher.
It is the responsibility of the teacher to refrain from advocating partisan causes, sectarian religious views, or selfish propaganda of any kind through any classroom or school device; however, an instructor will not be prohibited from expressing a personal opinion as long as students are encouraged to reach their own decisions independently.
The board encourages full discussion of controversial issues in a spirit of academic freedom that shows students that they have the right to disagree with the opinions of others but that they also have the responsibility to base the disagreement on facts and to respect the right of others to hold conflicting opinions.
Code No. 603.10
GLOBAL EDUCATION
Because of our growing interdependence with other nations in the world, global education shall be incorporated into the education program for grades kindergarten through six so that students have the opportunity to acquire a perspective on world issues, problems, and prospects for an awareness of the relationship between an individual's self-interest and the concerns of people elsewhere in the world. Global education, in the education program, is the lifelong growth in understanding, through study and participation, of the world community and the interdependency of its people and systems--social, cultural, racial, economic, linguistic, technological, and ecological.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 256.11
281 I.A.C. 12.5(11).
Cross Reference: 602 Curriculum Development
603.7 Career Education
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 02/10/97; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 603.11
CITIZENSHIP
Being a citizen of the United States, of Iowa and of the school district community entitles students to special privileges and protections as well as requiring the students to assume civic, economic and social responsibilities and to participate in their country, state and school district community in a manner that entitles them to keep these rights and privileges.
As part of the education program, students shall have an opportunity to learn about their rights, privileges, and responsibilities as citizens of this country, state and school district community. As part of this learning opportunity students shall be instructed in the elements of good citizenship and the role quality citizens play in their country, state and school district community.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(8).
Cross Reference: 101 Educational Philosophy of the School District
503.1 Student Conduct
Approved 8/23/94 Reviewed 02/10/97; 11/14/00; 1/10/05; 12/09/09; 12/10/14; 1/16/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 604.1
PRIVATE INSTRUCTION
The Morning Sun Community School District recognizes that families with students of compulsory attendance age may select alternative forms of education outside the traditional school setting, including private instruction. The applicable legal requirements for private instruction, including, but not limited to those relating to reporting and evaluations for progress, shall be followed.
Except as otherwise exempted, in the event a child of compulsory attendance age as defined by law does not attend public school or an accredited nonpublic school, the child must receive private instruction. Private instruction means instruction using a plan and a course of study in a setting other than a public or organized accredited nonpublic school.
Private instruction can take the form of competent private instruction and independent private instruction. The Iowa Department of Education recognizes three options for delivery of this form of instruction: two options for delivery of competent private instruction and one option for independent private instruction.
Competent private instruction means either private instruction provided on a daily basis for at least one hundred forty-eight days during a school year, to be met by attendance for at least thirty-seven days each school quarter, by or under supervision of a licensed practitioner which results in the student making adequate progress or private instruction provided by a parent, guardian, or legal custodian.
Independent private instruction means private instruction that meets the following criteria: (i) is not accredited, (ii) enrolls not more than four unrelated students, (iii) does not charge tuition, fees, or other remuneration for instruction, (iv) provides private or religious-based instruction as its primary purpose, (v) provides enrolled students with instruction in mathematics, reading and language arts, science, and social studies, (vi) provides, upon written request from the superintendent of the school district in which the independent private instruction is provided, or from the director of the department of education, a report identifying the primary instructor, location, name of the authority responsible for the independent private instruction, and the names of the students enrolled, (vii) is not a nonpublic school and does not provide competent private instruction as defined herein, and (viii) is exempt from all state statutes and administrative rules applicable to a school, a school board, or a school district, except as otherwise provided by law.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 299, 299A.
281 I.A.C. 31.
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
504 Student Activities
507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates
604.7 Dual Enrollment
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 03/13/97; 12/18/00; 2/14/05; 1/13/10; 1/14/15; 2/11/2020 Revised 08/11/15; 7/13/21
Code No. 604.2
INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION
The board's primary responsibility in the management of the school district is the operation and delivery of the regular education program. Generally, students attending the school district shall receive the regular education program offered by the district. Only in exceptional circumstances will the board approve students receiving individualized instruction at the expense of the school district.
Recommendations from the superintendent for individualized instruction shall state the need for the instruction, the objectives and goals sought for the instruction, the employee requirements for the instruction, the implementation procedures for the instruction and the evaluation procedures and processes that will be used to assess the value of the instruction.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for individualized instruction.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 256.11; 279.8, .10, .11; 280.3, .14; 299.1-.6, .11, .15, .24;
299A (1993).
Cross Reference: 604.1 Competent Private Instruction
Approved 8/23/94 |
Reviewed |
03/3/97; 12/18/00; 2/14/05; 1/13/10; 1/14/15; 2/11/2020 |
Revised |
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 604.3
PROGRAM FOR TALENTED AND GIFTED STUDENTS
The board recognizes some students require programming beyond the regular education program. The board shall identify students with special abilities and provide education programming.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a talented and gifted program which provides for identifying students, for program evaluation, and for training of employees.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 257.42-.49 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.5(12), 59.
Cross Reference: 505 Student Scholastic Achievement
Approved 08/23/94 |
Reviewed |
03/13/97; 12/18/00; 2/14/05; 1/13/10;1/14/15; 2/11/2020 |
Revised |
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MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 604.4
PROGRAM FOR AT-RISK STUDENTS
The board recognizes some students require additional assistance in order to graduate from the regular education program. The board shall provide a plan to encourage and provide an opportunity for at-risk students to achieve their potential and obtain their high school diploma.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a plan for students at-risk which provides for identifying students, for program evaluation, and for the training of employees.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 257.38-.41; 280.19, .19A (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.5(13), 33, 61.
Cross Reference: 505 Student Scholastic Achievement
607.1 Student Guidance and Counseling Program
Approved 08/23/94 |
Reviewed |
03/13/97; 12/18/00; 2/14/05; 1/13/10; 1/14/15; 2/11/2020 |
Revised |
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MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 604.5
Page 1 of 2
RELIGIOUS-BASED EXCLUSION FROM A SCHOOL PROGRAM
Parents who wish to have their child excluded from a school program because of religious beliefs must inform the superintendent. The board authorizes the administration to allow the exclusion if it is not disruptive to the education program and it does not infringe on a compelling state or education interest. Further, the exclusion must not interfere with other school district operations.
In notifying the superintendent, the parents shall abide by the following:
* The notice shall be in writing;
* The objection shall be based on religious beliefs;
* The objection shall state which activities or studies violate their religious beliefs;
* The objection shall state why these activities or studies violate their religious beliefs; and
* The objection shall state a proposed alternate activity or study.
The superintendent shall have discretion to make this determination. The factors the superintendent shall consider when a student requests to be excluded from a program or activity because of religious beliefs include, but are not limited to, staff available to supervise a student who wishes to be excluded, space to house the student while the student is excluded, available superintendent-approved alternative course of study or activity while the student is excluded, number of students who wish to be excluded, whether allowing the exclusion places the school in a position of supporting a particular religion, and whether the program or activity is required for promotion to the next grade level or for graduation.
Students who are allowed to be excluded from a program or activity which violates their religious beliefs shall be required to do an alternate supervised activity or study.
Approved 08/23/94 |
Reviewed |
03/13/97; 12/18/00; 2/14/05; 1/13/10; 1/14/15; 2/11/2020 |
Revised |
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MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
RELIGIOUS-BASED EXCLUSION FROM A SCHOOL PROGRAM
Legal Reference: U.S. Const. amend. I.
Lee v. Weisman, 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992). Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602 (1971).
Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County, 608
F.Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985).
Iowa Code §§ 256.11(6); 279.8 (1993).
Cross Reference: 603 Instructional Curriculum
606.2 School Ceremonies and Observances
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 604.7
Page 1 of 1
DUAL ENROLLMENT
The parent, guardian, or custodian of a student receiving competent private instruction may also enroll the student in the school district in accordance with state law and policy. The student is considered under dual enrollment. The parent, guardian, or custodian requesting dual enrollment for the student should notify the board secretary no later than September 15 of the school year in which dual enrollment is sought on forms provided by the school district. On the form, they will indicate the extracurricular and academic activities in which the student is interested in participating. The forms are available at the central administration office.
A dual enrollment student is eligible to participate in the school district's extracurricular and academic activities in the same manner as other students enrolled in the school district. The policies and administrative rules of the school district will apply to the dual enrollment students in the same manner as the other students enrolled the school district. These policies and administrative rules will include, but not be limited to, athletic eligibility requirements, the good conduct rule, academic eligibility requirements, and payment of applicable fees.
A dual enrollment student whose parent, guardian, or custodian has chosen standardized testing as the form of the student's annual assessment will not be responsible for the cost of the test or the administration of the test.
After the student notifies the school district which activities in which they wish to participate, the school district will provide information regarding the specific programs.
The applicable legal requirements for dual enrollment including, but not limited to those related to reporting and eligibility, shall be followed. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, 299A (2013).
281 I.A.C. 31.
Cross Reference: 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
503 Student Discipline
504 Student Activities
507 Student Health and Well-Being
604.1 Competent Private Instruction
Approved 08/11/15 Reviewed: 2/11/2020 Revised
Foreign students must meet all district entrance requirements including age, place of residence and immunization. Foreign students must be approved by the board. The board reserves the right to limit the number of foreign students accepted. Students who are citizens of a foreign country will be considered residents if they meet one of the following requirements:
Approved:
Reviewed: 2/11/2020
Revised:
Legal Reference:
Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
Cross Reference: 501 Student Attendance
507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates
The board has sole discretion to approve instructional materials for the school district. The board delegates ‘this authority to licensed employees to determine which instructional materials will be utilized and purchased by the school district to licensed employees. The licensed employees will work closely together to ensure vertical and horizontal articulation of textbooks in the education program.
The board may appoint an ad hoc committee to assist the licensed employees in selecting instructional materials. The committee may be composed of any of the following groups of stakeholders: school district employees, parents, community members or representatives of community groups.
In reviewing current instructional materials for continued use and in selecting additional instructional materials, the licensed employees will consider the current and future needs of the school district as well as the changes and the trends in education and society. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to report, to the board, the action taken by the selection committee.
In making its recommendations to the superintendent, the licensed employees will select materials which:
In the case of textbooks, the board will make the final decision after a recommendation from the superintendent. The criteria stated above for selection of instructional materials will also apply to the selection of textbooks. The superintendent may appoint licensed employees to assist in the selection of textbooks.
Gifts of instructional materials must meet these criteria stated above for the selection of instructional materials. The gift must be received in compliance with board policy 704.4, "Gifts - Grants - Bequests."
The Superintendent will establish additional criteria to guide the selection of instructional materials through administrative regulation, ensuring alignment with educational goals and compliance with laws.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 279.74; 280.14; 301
281 I.A.C. 12.3(12)
Cross Reference: 20 Ad Hoc Committees
50 Student Scholastic Achievement
60 Curriculum
60 Instructional Materials
Approved: 8/23/94
Reviewed: 12/18/00; 2/14/05; 3/13/07; 1/13/10; 1/14/15; 2/11/20
Revised: 10/09/07; 10/18/22; 7/11/23
The selection decision should be made on the basis of whether the material presents an accurate representation of society and culture, whether the circumstances depicted are realistically portrayed, or whether the material has literary or social value when the material is viewed as a whole.
These guidelines will not be construed in such a manner as to preclude materials which accurately represent the customs, morals, manners, culture, or society of a different time or a different place.
In order to provide a current, highly usable collection of materials, teacher-librarians will ensure constant and continuing renewal of the collection, not only the addition of up-to-date materials, but by the judicious elimination of materials which no longer meet school district needs or find use. The process of weeding instructional materials will be done according to established and accepted standards for determining the relevance and value of materials in a given context.
Parents and other members of the school district community may view the instructional and library materials used by the students. All instructional materials, including teacher's manuals, films, tapes or other supplementary material which will be used in connection with any survey, analysis, or evaluation as part of any federally funded programs must be available for inspection by parents.
The instructional and library materials may be viewed on school district premises.
The district will publish on the district’s website a comprehensive list of all books available to students in libraries operated by the school district.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding the inspection of instructional materials.
Legal Reference: Goals 2000: Educate America Act, Pub. L. No. 103-227, 108 Stat. 125
(1994).
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 279.74; 280.3; 14; 301
281 I.A.C. 12.3(12)
Cross Reference: 602 Curriculum Development
605 Instructional Materials
901.1 Public Examination of School District Records
Approved: 10/09/07
Reviewed: 01/13/10; 1/14/15; 2/11/20; 10/18/22
Revised: 7/11/23
Members of the school district community may object to the instructional materials utilized in the Morning Sun Community School District and ask for their use to be reconsidered.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations for reconsideration of instructional materials. Information related to the process for reconsideration of instructional and library materials will be made available on the district’s website.
Parents or guardians of students enrolled in the district have the ability to request that their student not be able to access certain instructional materials or check out certain library materials. For purposes of prohibiting access to instructional materials, Iowa law has defined instructional materials to mean either printed or electronic textbooks and relate core materials that are written and published primarily for use in elementary school and secondary school instruction and are required by a state educational agency or district for use by student sin the student’s classes by the teacher of record. Instructional materials do not include lesson plans.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 279.74.77; 280.3; 14; 301
281 I.A.C. 12.3(12).
Cross Reference: 213 Public Participation in Board Meetings
402.5 Public Complaints about Employees
602 Curriculum Development
605 Instructional Materials
Approved: 10/09/07
Reviewed: 01/13/10; 1/14/5; 2/11/20
Revised: 10/18/22; 7/11/23
605.3E1 INSTRUCTIONS TO THE RECONSIDERATION COMMITTEE
The policy of this school district related to selection of learning materials states that any member of the school district community may formally challenge instructional and library materials used in the district's education program. This policy allows those persons in the school and the community who are not directly involved in the selection of materials to make their own opinions known. The task of the reconsideration committee is to make an informed recommendation on the challenge. The meetings of the committee may be subject to the open meetings law.
The most critical component of the reconsideration process is the establishment and maintenance of the committee's credibility in the community. For this purpose, the committee is composed of a combination of community members and licensed employees as detailed in 605.3R1. The community should not, therefore, infer that the committee is biased or is obligated to uphold prior professional decisions.
The reconsideration process, the task of this committee, is just one part of the selection continuum. Material is purchased to meet a need. It is reviewed and examined, if possible, prior to purchase. It is periodically reevaluated through updating, discarding, or re-examination. The committee must be ready to acknowledge that an error in selection may have been made despite this process. Librarians and school employees regularly read great numbers of reviews in the selection process, and occasional errors are possible.
In reconsidering challenged materials, the role of the committee, and particularly the chairperson, is to produce a climate for meaningful discussion of disparate views. The committee should begin by finding items of agreement, keeping in mind that the larger the group participating, the greater the amount of information available and, therefore, the greater the number of possible approaches to the problem.
The committee may, at its discretion, hear an oral presentation from the complainant to the committee to expand and elaborate on the complaint. The committee may listen to the complainant, to those with special knowledge, and any other interested persons. In these discussions, the committee should be aware of relevant social pressures which are affecting the situation. Individuals who may try to dominate or impose a decision must not be allowed to do so. Minority viewpoints expressed by groups or individuals must be heard, and observers must be made to feel welcome. It is important that the committee create a calm, nonvolatile environment in which to deal with a potentially volatile situation. To this end, the complainant will be kept informed of the progress of the complaint.
The committee will listen to the views of all interested persons before making recommendations. In deliberating its recommendation, the committee should remember that the school system must be responsive to the needs, tastes, and opinions of the community it serves. Therefore, the committee must distinguish between broad community sentiment and attempts to impose personal standards. The deliberations should concentrate on the appropriateness of the material. The question to be answered by the committee is, "Is the material appropriate for its designated audience at this time?"
The committee's final recommendation will be (1) to remove the challenged material from the total school environment, (2) to take no removal action, or (3) to agree on a limitation of the educational use of the materials.
The committee chairperson will instruct the secretary to convey the committee's recommendation to the office of the superintendent. The recommendation should detail the rationale on which it was based. A letter will be sent to the complainant outlining the outcome.
605.3E2 RECONSIDERATION OF INSTRUCTIONAL AND LIBRARY MATERIALS REQUEST FORM
Request for re-evaluation of printed or multimedia material to be submitted to the superintendent
REVIEW INITIATED BY:
Name: ___________________________________________ Date: __________________
Address: ________________
City/State: ____________ Zip Code: Telephone:
School(s) in which item is used:
Relation to school (parent, student, citizen):
BOOK OR OTHER PRINTED MATERIAL IF APPLICABLE
Author: Hardcover: Paperback: Other:
Title:
Published (if known):
Date of Publication:
MULTIMEDIA MATERIAL IF APPLICABLE
Title:
Producer (if known):
Type of material (website, online resource, motion picture, etc…)
PERSON MAKING THE REQUEST REPRESENTS (circle one)
Self
Group or Organization
Name of Group:
Address of Group:
Signature Date
605.3E3 SAMPLE LETTER TO INDIVIDUAL CHALLENGING INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS
Dear:
We recognize your concern about the use of______________________ in our school district. The school district has developed procedures for selection of instructional materials but realizes that not everyone will agree with every selection made.
To help you understand the selection process, we are sending copies of the school district’s:
1. Instructional goals and objectives,
2. Instructional and Library Materials Selection policy statement, and,
3. Procedure for reconsideration of instructional and library materials.
If you are still concerned after you review this material, please complete the Reconsideration Request Form and return it to me. You may be assured of prompt attention to your request. If I have not heard from you within one week, we will assume you no longer wish to file a formal complaint.
Sincerely,
605.3E4 REQUEST TO PROHIBIT A STUDENT FROM CHECKING OUT SPECIFIC LIBRARY MATERIALS
Request to prohibit a student from checking out certain library materials to be submitted to the superintendent. Please complete one form per student.
REQUEST INITIATED BY DATE
Name:
Address:
City/State: Zip Code: Telephone Number:
Name of affected student:
Requester’s Relationship to Student (must be parent/legal guardian):
PRINTED MATERIAL TO PROHIBIT STUDENT FROM CHECKING OUT:
Author: Hardcover: Paperback: Other:
Title:
Publisher (if known)
Date of Publication:
MULTIMEDIA MATERIAL TO PROHIBIT STUDENT FROM CHECKING OUT:
Title:
Producer (if known):
Type of material:
Signature Date
The board supports the use of innovative methods and the use of technology in the delivery of the education program. The board encourages employees to investigate economical ways to utilize multimedia, computers, electronic devices, and other technologies as a part of the curriculum.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a plan for the use of technology in the curriculum and to evaluate it annually. The superintendent will report the results of the evaluation and make a recommendation to the board annually regarding the use of technology in the curriculum.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8
281 I.A.C. 12.3(12), 12.5)10), .5(17)
Cross Reference: 602—Curriculum Development
605—Instructional Materials
Approved: 10/09/07
Reviewed: 01/13/10; 01/14/15; 02/11/20
Revised: 10/18/22
The school district will maintain a school library in each building for use by employees and by students during the school day.
Materials for the centers will be acquired consistent with all applicable laws and board policy, "Instructional Materials Selection." Any challenges to library materials will be handled following the process for handling challenges to instructional and library materials as established in board policy.
It is the responsibility of the principal of the building in which the school library is located to oversee the use of materials in the library.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop procedures for the selection and replacement of both library and instructional materials, for the acceptance of gifts, for the weeding of library and instructional materials.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 25637(24); 256.11(9); 279.8, .50; 2810.6; .14; 301
281 I.A.C. 12.3(11), (12).
Cross Reference: 602 Curriculum Development
605 Instructional Materials
Approved: 8/23/94
Reviewed: 3/13/97; 12/18/00; 2/14/05; 1/13/10; 1/14/15; 2/11/20
Revised: 10/09/07; 10/18/22; 7/11/23
The district recognizes the importance of developing students into agile learners who are capable of addressing the complex needs of our future work force. For this reason, the district has prioritized making available technology and programs that teach students to embrace modern technology and tools while fostering a secure learning environment for students to the extent reasonable. Because technology is a vital part of the school district curriculum, the Internet will be made available to employees and students. Appropriate and equitable use of the Internet will allow employees and students to access resources unavailable through traditional means.
Students will be able to access the Internet through their teachers. Individual student accounts and electronic mail addresses may be issued to students. Students may be permitted to use district-issued email addresses and Internet-based collaboration software to send and receive messages at school.
The Internet can provide a vast collection of educational resources for students and employees. It is a global network which makes it impossible to control all available information. Because information appears, disappears, and changes constantly, it is not possible to predict or control what students may locate. The school district makes no guarantees as to the accuracy of information received on the Internet. Although students will be under teacher supervision while on the network, it is not possible to constantly monitor individual students and what they are accessing on the network. Some students might encounter information which may not be of educational value. Student Internet records and access records are confidential records treated like other student records. Students’ Internet activities will be monitored by the school district to ensure students are not accessing inappropriate sites that have visual depictions that include obscenity, child pornography, or are harmful to minors. The school district will use technology protection measures to protect students from inappropriate access, including sites that include obscenity, child pornography, or are harmful to minors.
The school district will monitor the online activities of students and will educate students about appropriate online behavior, including interacting on social networking sites and chat rooms. Students will also be educated on cyberbullying, including awareness and response. Employees will provide age appropriate training for students who use the Internet. The training provided will be designed to promote the school district’s commitment to:
Employees and students will be instructed on the appropriate use of the Internet. Parents will be required to sign a permission form to allow their students to access the Internet. Students will sign a form acknowledging they have read and understand the Internet Acceptable Use policy and regulations, that they will comply with the policy and regulations, and that they understand the consequences for violation of the policy or regulations.
In compliance with federal law, this policy will be maintained at least five years beyond the termination of funding under the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) or E-rate.
Legal Reference: 47 C.F.R. 54.520
Iowa Code § 279.8
Cross Reference: 104 Anti-Bullying/Harassment
502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
506 Student Records
605.5 School Library
Approved: 8/12/96
Reviewed: 3/13/97; 1/15/01; 1/13/10; 1/14/15; 2/11/20; 1/11/24
Revised: 6/10/02; 6/13/12
605.6E1
INTERNET ACCESS LETTER TO PARENTS
On-Line Resources Access Restriction/Denial Form for Students
On-line resources can provide a vast collection of educational resources for students. It is global, making it impossible to control all information available. Because information appears, disappears, and changes constantly, it is not possible to predict or control what students may locate. Although students will often be under staff supervision while on the network, it is not possible to always monitor individual students and what they are accessing on the network. Consequently, some students might encounter information that may not be of educational value to them.
Morning Sun students will be granted access to on-line resources (Internet) until the parent has submitted this form to the student's principal. Morning Sun uses a filtering service provided by BESS which blocks access to inappropriate sites. Morning Sun teachers and staff make every attempt to ensure students use the Internet appropriately by teaching appropriate use and monitoring student use.
Parents can be assured that any violation of the provisions will result in the appropriate discipline as outlined in the "Student Violations; Consequences and Notifications" policy. Parents should also understand that they may be held responsible for any "Unauthorized Costs" incurred by a student while using the Internet.
Alternative assignments will be made available to students who do not have access to online service due to parental denial.
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(Remove and return the bottom portion of this notice)
Student Name _______________________________________________Date: ___________________________
Building:____________________________________________________________________________________
[ ] Restricted Access -- Staff Supervision Only I give permission for my child to be granted on-line privileges while a student of Morning Sun Community Schools, only with direct staff supervision. I have read the policies and procedures set forth by the Morning Sun Community School District and agree to abide by these provisions. I understand that any violation of the provisions will result in the appropriate discipline as outlined in the "Student Violations; Consequences and Notifications" policy. I also agree to be responsible for any "Unauthorized Costs" incurred by the above student while using the Internet.
[ ] Denial of Access I request that my child be denied access to on-line resources while a student Morning Sun Community Schools.
____________________________ ____________________________
(Parent or guardian's signature) Student's signature
PARENTS: Your signature indicates that you intend to limit or deny your child access to the internet and that you have read and understand the policy, regulations, procedures and consequences stated here within.
605.6E2
ON-LINE RESOURCES APPROPRIATE USE VIOLATION NOTICE
On-Line Resources Appropriate Use Violation Notice
Student Name ______________________________Date: ___________________
Administrator: ______________________________
Student Violations; Consequences and Notifications:
Students who access and/or download inappropriate/objectionable items, send messages with vulgar/abusive language while using on-line resources or attempt to access a personal e-mail account at school shall be subject to the following consequences:
_______1. First Offense:
For the first violation during the school's fiscal year (July 1-June 30), a verbal and written "Warning" notice, using the prescribed form, will be issued to the student by the building principal's office. The student will lose on-line access privileges for a period three weeks. A copy of the notice will be mailed to the student's parent/guardian by the building principal's office and a copy kept on file in the building principal's office.
_______2. Second Offense:
For the second violation during the school's fiscal year (July 1-June 30), a verbal and written "Second Infraction," notice, using the prescribed form, will be issued to the student by the building principal's office. The student will lose on-line access privileges for a period of nine weeks. A copy of the notice will be mailed to the student's parent/guardian by the building principal's office and a copy kept on file in the building principal's office.
_______3. Third Offense:
On the third violation during the school's fiscal year (July 1-June 30), a verbal and written "Third Infraction" notice, using the prescribed form, will be issued to the student by the building principal's office. The student will lose all on-line access privileges. A copy of notice will be sent by registered mailed to the student's parent/guardian by the building principal's office and a copy kept on filed in the building principal's office.
Any student who has lost his/her on-line privileges by committing a "Third Offense" may at the beginning of the next regular school year petition the "Technology Advisory Committee" to have his/her on-line resources privileges reinstated on a trial basis. A "trial basis" places the student on probation for one year. If during this one-year period the student commits an additional offense, his/her on-line privileges will be permanently suspended for the remainder of his/her time as a student in the Morning Sun Community School District.
Alternative assignments will be made available to students who do not have access to online service due to loss of privileges or parental denial.
605.6R1
Page 1 of 5
APPROPRIATE USE OF TECHNOLOGY AND ON-LINE RESOURCES REGULATION
I. Responsibility for Appropriate Use of Technology and On-Line Resources
II. Technology and On-Line Access
Annually, parents will grant permission for their student to use technology and on-line resources using the prescribed form.
IV. Student Use of Technology and On-Line Resources
If inappropriate information is accessed unintentionally, the student must immediately report such unintentional access to the teacher or principal in order to avoid being found in violation of this regulation.
Acts of vandalism are prohibited. Vandalism includes, but is not limited to, any attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, to intercept, copy, distribute, decrypt, or use the login names and/or passwords of others, to attempt to secure a higher level of network privilege, to damage hardware or software, to alter the normal performance of hardware or software, or to interrupt the smooth operation of the network. This includes the intentional downloading or installation of computer viruses, applications intended to disrupt the operation of the network system, unauthorized use of another's computer, account passwords, and/or files. Acts of vandalism may result in discipline up to and including suspension, expulsion, or the filing of criminal charges.
The district will cooperate with any investigation concerning or relating to the misuse of the district's technology resources.
If a student gains access to any service via technology and on-line resources which has a cost involved, or if a student incurs other types of costs, the Morning Sun Community School District will not be responsible for those costs. The student and/or the student's parent(s)/guardian will be responsible for those costs.
V. Student Violations; Consequences and Notifications:
Students who attempt to and/or access and/or download inappropriate/objectionable items, send messages with vulgar/abusive language while using technology and on-line resources, violate any federal or state law or regulation, violate any of the policies or regulations of the school, or access a personal e-mail account at school shall be subject to the following consequences:
For the first violation during the school's fiscal year (July 1-June 30), a verbal and written "Warning" notice, using the prescribed form, will be issued to the student by the building principal's office. The student will lose technology and on-line access for a period of three weeks. A copy of the notice will be mailed to the student's parent/guardian by the building principal's office and a copy kept on file in the building principal's office.
For the second violation during the school's fiscal year (July 1-June 30), a verbal and written "Second Infraction," notice, using the prescribed form, will be issued to the student by the building principal's office. The student will lose technology and on-line access for a period of nine weeks. A copy of the notice will be mailed to the student's parent/guardian by the building principal's office and a copy kept on file in the building principal's office.
On the third violation during the school's fiscal year (July 1-June 30), a verbal and written "Third Infraction" notice, using the prescribed form, will be issued to the student by the building principal's office. The student will lose all technology and on-line privileges. A copy of notice will be sent by registered mailed to the student's parent/guardian by the building principal's office and a copy kept on filed in the building principal's office.
Any student who has lost his/her technology and on-line privileges by committing a "Third Offense", may at the beginning of the next regular school year petition the superintendent to have his/her technology and on-line privileges reinstated on a trial basis. A "trial basis" places a student on probation for one year. If during this one-year time period the student commits an additional offense, his/her technology and on-line privileges may be suspended for the remainder of his/her time as a student in Morning Sun Community School District.
Alternative assignments will be made available to students who do not have access to technology and online service due to loss of privileges or parental denial.
In addition to the above sanctions, the school may impose discipline up to and including suspension or expulsion from school and/or the filing of criminal charges.
Morning Sun Community Schools
Appendix A
Code No. 605.7
USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES
In order for students to experience a diverse curriculum, the board encourages employees to supplement their regular curricular materials with other resources. In so doing, the board recognizes that federal law makes it illegal to duplicate copyrighted materials without authorization of the holder of the copyright, except for certain exempt purposes. Severe penalties may be imposed for plagiarism, unauthorized copying or using of media, including, but not limited to, print, electronic and web-based materials, unless the copying or using conforms to the "fair use" doctrine. Under the "fair use" doctrine, unauthorized reproduction of copyrighted materials is permissible for such purposes as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship or research providing that all fair use guidelines are met.
While the school district encourages employees to enrich the learning programs by making proper use of supplementary materials, it is the responsibility of employees to abide by the school district's copying procedures and obey the requirements of the law. In no circumstances shall it be necessary for school district staff to violate copyright requirements in order to perform their duties properly. The school district will not be responsible for any violations of the copyright law by employees or students. Violation of the copyright law by employees may result in discipline up to, and including, termination. Violation of the copyright law by students may result in discipline, up to and including, suspension or expulsion.
Parents or others who wish to record, by any means, school programs or other activities need to realize that even though the school district received permission to perform a copyrighted work does not mean outsiders can copy it and re-play it. Those who wish to do so should contact the employee in charge of the activity to determine what the process is to ensure the copyright law is followed. The school district is not responsible for outsiders violating the copyright law or this policy.
Any employee or student who is uncertain as to whether reproducing or using copyrighted material complies with the school district's procedures or is permissible under the law should contact the [principal, teacher or teacher-librarian - choose as many as apply or add others] who will also assist employees and students in obtaining proper authorization to copy or use protected material when such authorization is required.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the [principal, teacher or teacher-librarian - choose as many as apply or add others], to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Legal References: 17 U.S. Code Sec. 101 et al.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(12).
Cross References: 605.6 Internet Appropriate Use
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 03/13/97; 1/15/01; 2/14/05; 1/13/10; 1/14/15; 2/11/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Appendix A
Code No. 605.7R1
Page 1 of 6
USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES REGULATION
Employees and students may make copies of copyrighted materials that fall within the following guidelines. Where there is reason to believe the material to be copied does not fall within these guidelines, prior permission shall be obtained from the publisher or producer with the assistance of the [principal, teacher, teacher-librarian - choose all that apply or add others]. Employees and students who fail to follow this procedure may be held personally liable for copyright infringement and may be subject to discipline by the board.
Under the "fair use" doctrine, unauthorized reproduction of copyrighted materials is permissible for such purposes as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship or research. Under the fair use doctrine, each of the following four standards must be met in order to use the copyrighted document:
Purpose and Character of the Use - The use must be for such purposes as teaching or scholarship.
Nature of the Copyrighted Work - The type of work to be copied.
Amount and Substantiality of the Portion Used - Copying the whole of a work cannot be considered fair use; copying a small portion may be if these guidelines are followed.
Effect of the Use Upon the Potential Market for or value of the Copyrighted Work - If resulting economic loss to the copyright holder can be shown, even making a single copy of certain materials may be an infringement, and making multiple copies presents the danger of greater penalties.
Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Material Reminders:
Materials on the Internet should be used with caution since they may, and likely are, copyrighted.
Proper attribution (author, title, publisher, place and date of publication) should always be given.
Notice should be taken of any alterations to copyrighted works, and such alterations should only be made for specific instructional objectives.
Care should be taken in circumventing any technological protection measures. While materials copied pursuant to fair use may be copied after circumventing technological protections against unauthorized copying, technological protection measures to block access to materials may not be circumvented.
In preparing for instruction, a teacher may make or have made a single copy of:
A chapter from a book;
An article from a newspaper or periodical;
A short story, short essay or short poem; or,
A chart, graph, diagram, drawing, cartoon or picture from a book, periodical or newspaper.
A teacher may make multiple copies not exceeding more than one per pupil, for classroom use or discussion, if the copying meets the tests of “brevity, spontaneity and cumulative effect” set by the following guidelines. Each copy must include a notice of copyright.
Appendix A
Code No. 605.7R1
Page 2 of 6
USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES REGULATION
Brevity
A complete poem, if less than 250 words and two pages long, may be copied; excerpts from longer poems cannot exceed 250 words;
Complete articles, stories or essays of less than 2500 words or excerpts from prose works less than 1000 words or 10% of the work, whichever is less may be copied; in any event, the minimum is 500 words;
Each numerical limit may be expanded to permit the completion of an unfinished line of a poem or prose paragraph;
One chart, graph, diagram, drawing, cartoon or picture per book or periodical issue may be copied. “Special” works cannot be reproduced in full; this includes children's books combining poetry, prose or poetic prose. Short special works may be copied up to two published pages containing not more than 10 percent of the work.
Spontaneity - Should be at the “instance and inspiration” of the individual teacher when there is not a reasonable length of time to request and receive permission to copy.
Cumulative Effect - Teachers are limited to using copied material for only one course for which copies are made. No more than one short poem, article, story or two excerpts from the same author may be copied, and no more than three works can be copied from a collective work or periodical column during one class term. Teachers are limited to nine instances of multiple copying for one course during one class term. Limitations do not apply to current news periodicals, newspapers and current news sections of other periodicals.
Copying Limitations
Circumstances will arise when employees are uncertain whether or not copying is prohibited. In those circumstances, the, [principal, teacher or teacher-librarian - choose all that apply or add others] should be contacted. The following prohibitions have been expressly stated in federal guidelines:
Reproduction of copyrighted material shall not be used to create or substitute for anthologies, compilations or collective works.
Unless expressly permitted by agreement with the publisher and authorized by school district action, there shall be no copying from copyrighted consumable materials such as workbooks, exercises, test booklets, answer sheets and the like.
Employees shall not:
Use copies to substitute for the purchase of books, periodicals, music recordings, consumable works such as workbooks, computer software or other copyrighted material. Copy or use the same item from term to term without the copyright owner's permission;
Copy or use more than nine instances of multiple copying of protected material in any one term;
Copy or use more than one short work or two excerpts from works of the same author in any one term;
Copy or use protected material without including a notice of copyright. The following is a satisfactory notice: NOTICE: THIS MATERIAL MAY BE PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW.
Reproduce or use copyrighted material at the direction of someone in higher authority or copy or use such material in emulation of some other teacher's use of copyrighted material without permission of the copyright owner.
Require other employees or students to violate the copyright law or fair use guidelines.
Appendix A
Code No. 605.7R1
Page 3 of 6
USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES REGULATION
Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Materials in the Library
A library may make a single copy or three digital copies of:
An unpublished work in its collection;
A published work in order to replace it because it is damaged, deteriorated, lost or stolen, provided that an unused replacement cannot be obtained at a fair price.
A work that is being considered for acquisition, although use is strictly limited to that decision. Technological protection measures may be circumvented for purposes of copying materials in order to make an acquisition decision.
A library may provide a single copy of copyrighted material to a student or employee at no more than the actual cost of photocopying. The copy must be limited to one article of a periodical issue or a small part of other material, unless the library finds that the copyrighted work cannot be obtained elsewhere at a fair price. In the latter circumstance, the entire work may be copied. In any case, the copy shall contain the notice of copyright and the student or staff member shall be notified that the copy is to be used only for private study, scholarship or research. Any other use may subject the person to liability for copyright infringement.
Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Music or Dramatic Works
Teachers may:
Make a single copy of a song, movement, or short section from a printed musical or dramatic work that is unavailable except in a larger work for purposes of preparing for instruction;
Make multiple copies for classroom use of an excerpt of not more than 10% of a printed musical work if it is to be used for academic purposes other than performance, provided that the excerpt does not comprise a part of the whole musical work which would constitute a performable unit such as a complete section, movement, or song;
In an emergency, a teacher may make and use replacement copies of printed music for an imminent musical performance when the purchased copies have been lost, destroyed or are otherwise not available.
Make and retain a single recording of student performances of copyrighted material when it is made for purposes of evaluation or rehearsal;
Make and retain a single copy of excerpts from recordings of copyrighted musical works for use as aural exercises or examination questions; and,
Edit or simplify purchased copies of music or plays provided that the fundamental character of the work is not distorted. Lyrics shall not be altered or added if none exist.
Performance by teachers or students of copyrighted musical or dramatic works is permitted without the authorization of the copyright owner as part of a teaching activity in a classroom or instructional setting. The purpose shall be instructional rather than for entertainment.
Performances of nondramatic musical works that are copyrighted are permitted without the authorization of the copyright owner, provided that:
The performance is not for a commercial purpose;
None of the performers, promoters or organizers are compensated; and,
Admission fees are used for educational or charitable purposes only.
Appendix A
Code No. 605.7R1
Page 4 of 6
USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES REGULATION
All other musical and dramatic performances require permission from the copyright owner. Parents or others wishing to record a performance should check with the sponsor to ensure compliance with copyright.
Recording of Copyrighted Programs
Television programs, excluding news programs, transmitted by commercial and non-commercial television stations for reception by the general public without charge may be recorded off-air simultaneously with broadcast transmission (including simultaneous cable retransmission) and retained by a school for a period not to exceed the first forty-five (45) consecutive calendar days after date of recording. Upon conclusion of this retention period, all off-air recordings must be erased or destroyed immediately. Certain programming such as that provided on public television may be exempt from this provision; check with the librarian or the subscription database, e.g. unitedstreaming.
Off-air recording may be used once by individual teachers in the course of instructional activities, and repeated once only when reinforcement is necessary, within a building, during the first 10 consecutive school days, excluding scheduled interruptions, in the 45 calendar day retention period. Off-air recordings may be made only at the request of and used by individual teachers, and may not be regularly recorded in anticipation of requests. No broadcast program may be recorded off-air more than once at the request of the same teacher, regardless of the number of times the program may be broadcast. A limited number of copies may be reproduced from each off-air recording to meet the legitimate needs of teachers. Each additional copy shall be subject to all provisions governing the original recording.
After the first ten consecutive school days, off-air recordings may be used up to the end of the 45 calendar day retention period only for evaluation purposes, i.e., to determine whether or not to include the broadcast program in the teaching curriculum. Permission must be secured from the publisher before the recording can be used for instructional purposes after the 10 day period.
Off-air recordings need not be used in their entirety, but the recorded programs may not be altered from their original content. Off-air recordings may not be physically or electronically combined or merged to constitute teaching anthologies or compilations. All copies of off-air recordings must include the copyright notice on the broadcast program as recorded.
Authorized Reproduction and Use of Copyrighted Computer Software
Schools have a valid need for high-quality software at reasonable prices. To assure a fair return to the authors of software programs, the school district shall support the legal and ethical issues involved in copyright laws and any usage agreements that are incorporated into the acquisition of software programs. To this end, the following guidelines shall be in effect:
All copyright laws and publisher license agreements between the vendor and the school district shall be observed;
Staff members shall take reasonable precautions to prevent copying or the use of unauthorized copies on school equipment;
Appendix A
Code No. 605.7R1
Page 5 of 6
USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES REGULATION
A back-up copy shall be purchased, for use as a replacement when a program is lost or damaged. If the vendor is not able to supply a replacement, the school district shall make a back-up copy that will be used for replacement purposes only;
A copy of the software license agreement shall be retained by the librarian
A computer program may be adapted by adding to the content or changing the language. The adapted program may not be distributed.
Fair Use Guidelines for Educational Multimedia
Students may incorporate portions of copyrighted materials in producing educational multimedia projects such as videos, Power Points, podcasts and web sites for a specific course, and may perform, display or retain the projects.
Educators may perform or display their own multimedia projects to students in support of curriculum-based instructional activities. These projects may be used:
In face-to-face instruction;
In demonstrations and presentations, including conferences;
In assignments to students;
For remote instruction if distribution of the signal is limited;
Over a network that cannot prevent duplication for fifteen days, after fifteen days a copy may be saved on-site only; or,
In their personal portfolios.
Educators may use copyrighted materials in a multimedia project for two years, after that permission must be requested and received.
The following limitations restrict the portion of any given work that may be used pursuant of fair use in an educational multimedia project:
Motion media: ten percent or three minutes, whichever is less;
Text materials: ten percent or 1,000 words, whichever is less;
Poetry: an entire poem of fewer than 250 words, but no more than three poems from one author or five poems from an anthology. For poems of greater than 250 words, excerpts of up to 250 words may be used, but no more than three excerpts from one poet or five excerpts from an anthology;
Music, lyrics and music video: Up to ten percent, but no more than thirty seconds. No alterations that change the basic melody or fundamental character of the work;
Illustrations, cartoons and photographs: No more that five images by an artist, and no more than ten percent or fifteen images whichever is less from a collective work;
Numerical data sets: Up to ten percent or 2,500 field or cell entries, whichever is less;
Fair use does not include posting a student or teacher's work on the Internet if it includes portions of copyrighted materials. Permission to copy shall be obtained from the original copyright holder(s) before such projects are placed online. The opening screen of such presentations shall include notice that permission was granted and materials are restricted from further use.
Appendix A
Code No. 605.7R1
Page 6 of 6
USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES REGULATION
The [superintendent, principal, teacher, teacher-librarian, choose all that apply or add others] is responsible for ensuring that appropriate warning devices are posted. The warnings are to educate and warn individuals using school district equipment of the copyright law. Warning notices must be posted:
On or near copiers;
On forms used to request copying services;
On video recorders;
On computers; and,
At the library and other places where interlibrary loan orders for copies of materials are accepted.
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Morning Sun Community School District believes that to adequately prepare modern learners for the future, advances in technology should first be explored within the education environment. At its most simple, generative artificial intelligence (AI) is automation based on association. AI tools analyze large amounts of information and detect patterns using that information to draw a conclusion. The AI tools then improve the conclusions drawn based upon additional data reviewed, patterns found, and prior conclusions drawn. Generative AI for the education environment has the potential to automate classroom organizational tasks, enhance individualized student learning, teaching, assessment of student learning, and even enhance research and professional development for educators.
However, generative AI tools can be vulnerable to inaccuracy in some significant ways. AI tools can: have bias in how the tools detect patterns; detect patterns/draw conclusions based on inaccurate data; and may not be fully accessible to students to different abilities. It is valuable for students to understand the potential uses and limitations of this imperfect technology in an educational environment where AI tools have been carefully selected and are monitored and reviewed within appropriate guidelines. For this reason, human oversight and decision making must lead the selection, use, and review of AI tools in the education environment.
Only humans can verify the accuracy of AI tools and apply proper context to any information generated from them. AI tools will never be the sole determining factor used to make decisions related to student learning, assessment, academic integrity, and behavior. All decisions must be made by appropriate licensed staff and based upon a holistic analysis of available evidence.
Privacy must be protected when using generative AI tools. AI draws conclusions based on analysis of data. No personally identifiable information about other students or staff will be shared with AI tools, without prior written consent from the parent or guardian of the student, or from the student/staff if applicable. Permission must be granted prior to students using open-source AI tools that may share information outside the tool itself, and with any entities outside the control of the privacy terms and conditions of the AI tool.
Use of AI tools by students and staff will be at all times appropriate to the educational environment and subject to all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. This includes but is not limited to the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, Children’s Internet Protection Act, and the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule; as well as district policies on studet conduct, copyright protections, student records, personnel records, bullying and harassment, and staff/student expression.
The Superintendent, working in collaboration with relevant staff, will develop regulations necessary to carry out the intent of this policy.
Legal Reference: 16 C.F.R. 312
34 C.F.R. pt. 99
47 C.F.R. 54 520
Iowa Code § 279.8
Cross Reference: 104 Anti-Bullying/Harassment
502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
506 Student Records
605.5 School Library
Approved: 2/13/24
Reviewed:
Revised:
Selection of AI tools
AI tools will be vetted by relevant stakeholders including, but not limited to the district’s IT staff and, when related to student learning or assessment, by the Curriculum Director. Decisions to use AI tools should be focused on:
Academic Integrity
Use of AI in research and graded work by students must include proper source citations. Copyright protections must be strictly adhered to. Students who fail to comply with these requirements may face discipline as stated in relevant district policies.
Appropriate Use
Prior to using AI tools, classroom teachers will clearly state how AI tools may be used to engage in and complete educational tasks and assignments. Classroom teachers will establish appropriate parameters for AI tool usage and will monitor student use of AI tools as appropriate.
Prohibited Use
Students will not use AI tools to access or create information that is discriminatory, constitutes bullying or harassment, shares confidential or personally identifiable information of others, or access/create material that is harmful to minors, obscne, or child pornography. Any violation of this regulation will be treated as a violation of relevant district policies and may be subject to loss of access to the AI tool, and further discipline.
Code No. 606.1
CLASS SIZE - CLASS GROUPING
It shall be within the sole discretion of the board to determine the size of classes and to determine whether class grouping shall take place. The board shall review the class sizes annually.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board on class size based upon the financial condition of the school district, the qualifications of and number of licensed employees, and other factors deemed relevant to the board.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3 (1993).
Cross Reference: 603 Instructional Curriculum
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 04/14/97; 2/12/01; 3/14/05; 2/10/10; 2/11/15; 3/10/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 606.2
SCHOOL CEREMONIES AND OBSERVANCES
The school district will continue school ceremonies and observances which have become a tradition and a custom of the education program. These include, but are not limited to, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and observance of holidays, such as Christmas, Halloween and Easter, by programs and performances. Such ceremonies or observances shall have a secular purpose and shall not advocate or sponsor a particular religion.
The district will provide and maintain a suitable flagstaff at each school site and raise the Iowa and United States flags each school day as weather conditions permit. The district will display the United States flag and administer the Pledge of Allegiance in each 1st through 12th grade classroom on school days.
Students who do not wish to participate in these activities may be silent during the ceremony or observance or receive permission from the principal to be excused from the ceremony for religious reasons in compliance with board policy.
Legal Reference: U.S. Const. amend. I.
Lee v. Weisman, 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992).
Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602, (1971).
Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County, 608 F.Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985).
Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
Cross Reference: 603 Instructional Curriculum
604.5 Religious-Based Exclusion From A School Program
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 04/14/97; 2/12/01; 3/14/05; 2/10/10; 2/11/15; 3/10/2020 Revised 8/12/21
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 606.3
ANIMALS IN THE CLASSROOM
Live animals will not be allowed in school district facilities except under special circumstances and must be present for an educational purpose. Permission from the principal will be required of anyone wishing to bring an animal into school district facilities. Appropriate supervision of animals is required when animals are brought into the school district facilities.
The person bringing the animal must furnish transportation for the animal brought to school. Animals will not be allowed to travel to and from the student's attendance center on the school bus without prior approval from the building principal.
It shall be the responsibility of the building principal to determine appropriate supervision of animals in the classroom.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
Cross Reference: 507 Student Health and Well-Being
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 04/14/97; 2/12/01;3/14/05; 2/10/10; 2/11/15; 3/10/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 606.4
STUDENT PRODUCTION OF MATERIALS AND SERVICES
Materials and services produced by students at the expense of the school district are be the property of the school district. Materials and services produced by students at the student's expense, except for incidental expense to the school district, are be the property of the student.
It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to determine incidental expense.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
Cross Reference: 408.2 Licensed Employee Publication or Creation of Materials
Approved 08/23/97 Reviewed 04/14/97; 2/12/01; 3/14/05; 2/10/10; 2/11/15; 3/10/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 606.5
STUDENT FIELD TRIPS AND EXCURSIONS
The principal may authorize field trips and excursions when such events contribute to the achievement of education goals of the school district. The school district will provide transportation for field trips and excursions.
In authorizing field trips and excursions, the building principal shall consider the financial condition of the school district, the educational benefit of the activity, the inherent risks or dangers of the activity, and other factors deemed relevant by the superintendent. Written parental permission will be required prior to the student's participation in field trips and excursions. The superintendent's approval will be required for field trips and excursions outside the continental United States. Board approval shall be required for field trips and excursions which involve unusual length or expense.
Field trips and excursions are to be arranged with the building principal well in advance. A detailed schedule and budget must be submitted by the employee. The school district will be responsible for obtaining a substitute teacher if one is needed.
Legal Reference: 390 C.F.R. § 390.3(f) (1993).
Iowa Code § 279.8 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 43.9.
Cross Reference: 503.1 Student Conduct
503.4 Good Conduct Rule
711 Transportation
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 04/14/97; 2/12/01; 3/14/05; 2/10/10; 2/11/15;ll; 3/10/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Code No. 606.6
INSUFFICIENT CLASSROOM SPACE
Insufficient classroom space shall be determined on a case-by-case basis. In making its determination whether insufficient classroom space exists, the board may consider several factors, including but not limited to, the nature of the education program, the grade level, the available licensed employees, the instructional method, the physical space, student-teacher ratios, equipment and materials, facilities either being planned or under construction, facilities planned to be closed, financial condition of the school district and projected to be available, a sharing agreement in force or planned, a bargaining agreement in force, laws or rules governing special education class size, board-adopted school district goals and objectives, and other factors considered relevant by the board.
This policy shall be reviewed by the board annually. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to bring this policy to the attention of the board each year.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 282.18(13) (1993).
281 I.A.C. 17.6(3).
Cross Reference: 101 Educational Philosophy of the School District
102 Equal Educational Opportunity
501.15 Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Receiving District
602 Curriculum Development
606.1 Class Size - Class Grouping
Approved 08/23/94 Reviewed 04/14/97; 2/12/01; 3/14/05; 2/10/10; 2/11/15; 3/10/2020 Revised
MORNING SUN COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The board shall provide a student guidance and counseling program. The school counselor shall be certified with the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners and hold the qualifications required by the board. The guidance and counseling program will serve grades kindergarten through six. The program will assist students with their personal, educational, and career development. The program shall be coordinated with the education program and involve licensed employees.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 256.9A; 622.10 (1993).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 12.5(21).
Cross Reference: 506--Student Records
Approved: 08/23/94
Reviewed: 04/14/97; 2/12/01; 3/14/05; 2/10/10; 2/11/15; 3/10/2020
Revised: 2/15/23
Health services are an integral part of assisting all students to increase learning, achievement and performance. Health services coordinate and support existing programs to assist each student in achievement of an optimal state of physical, mental, and social well-being. Student health services ensure continuity and create linkages between school, home, and community service providers. The school district's needs, and resources determine the linkages.
Except in emergent care situations or child abuse assessments, the district will not administer invasive physical examinations or health screenings of a student that are not required by state or federal law without first obtaining the written consent of the student’s parent or guardian.
The superintendent, in conjunction with the school nurse, will develop administrative regulations implementing this policy. The superintendent will provide a written report on the role of health services in the education program to the board annually.
Legal Reference: 42 U.S.C. §§ 12101 et seq.
34 C.F.R. pt 99., 104, 200, 300
29 U.S.C. § 794(a)
28 C.F.R. 35
20 U.S.C. 1232g § 1400 6301 et seq.
Iowa Code §§ 22.7, 139A.3. .8, .21; 143.1, 152, 256.7(24), .11, 280.23.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), (7), (11); 12.4(12); 12.8
282 I.A.C. 15.3(14); 22.
641 I.A.C. 7.
655 I.A.C. 6
Cross Reference: 501.4 Entrance--Admissions
507 Student Health and Well-Being
Approved: 8/16/01
Reviewed: 1/9/03; 8/16/07; 1/10/19
Revised: 1/9/03; 7/11/22; 7/11/23; 7/9/24
Student Health Services - Each school building may develop a customized student health services program based on its unique needs and resources. Scientific advances, laws, and school improvement necessitate supports to students with health needs to receive their education program.
Supports to improve student achievement include:
Components provided within a coordinated school health program include:
health services |
health education |
Nutrition |
physical education and activity |
healthy, safe environment |
counseling, psychological, and social services |
staff wellness |
family and community involvement |
Student health services are provided to identify health needs; facilitate access to health care; provide for health needs related to educational achievement; promote health, well-being, and safety; and plan and develop the health services program.
Student Health Services Essential Functions
Expanded Health Services
These additional health services address learning barriers and the lack of access to health care. Examples include school-based services in the school, school-linked services connected to the school, primary care, mental health, substance abuse, and dental health.