Children who are residents of the school district community will attend the school district without paying tuition.

The residence of a student means the place, abode, or dwelling of the student. Generally, the legal dwelling of minors is the same as their parents. A student may establish a dwelling with someone other than the parents and attend public school in the school district without paying tuition if the primary purpose for residing in the school district is not for the purpose of obtaining a free public education. Further, students who have reached the age of majority and who are still eligible to attend an Iowa secondary school may declare their residence independent of the residence of the parents.

Each case involving the bona fide residence of a student will be decided upon its individual merits by the superintendent.

Legal Reference:  Lakota Cons. Ind. School v. Buffalo Center-Rake Comm. School, 334 N.W.2d 704 (Iowa 1983).
                                      Mt. Hope School Dist. v. Hendrickson, 197 N.W. 47 (Iowa 1924).
                                      Oshel v. Creston Comm. School Dist., DPI Admin. Doc. 570 (1981).
                                      33 D.P.I. Dec. Rule 80 (1984).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4.

Cross Reference:  100 Legal Status of the School Board
                                       501 Student Attendance

Approved: August 1996 
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009             

Students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school but who are not legal residents of the school district may be admitted into the school district at the discretion of the superintendent upon application and payment of tuition. The tuition rate is the current per-pupil cost of the school district as computed by the board secretary and as authorized by the Iowa Department of Education.

Resident students whose families move from the school district after the start of a semester and who wish to complete the semester in the school district may be permitted to attend without the payment of tuition at the discretion of the superintendent and approval of the board. Students who plan to open enroll to the nonresident district may complete the school year without approval of the superintendent or board. These students, other than students in grades eleven and twelve, must have the recommendation of the principal.

Students in grades eleven or twelve who are no longer residents of the school district, but were residents in the preceding school year, may continue to attend school until they graduate without the payment of tuition. These students may be required to identify an adult, who resides in the school district, identified for purposes of administration.

Nonresident students who are eligible to attend an Iowa public school and who have evidence they will become legal residents of the school district prior to October 1 may be allowed to attend without the payment of tuition. 

Legal Reference:  Lakota Cons. Ind. School v. Buffalo Center-Rake Comm. School, 334 N.W.2d 704 (Iowa 1983).
                                     Mt. Hope School Dist. v. Hendrickson, 197 N.W. 47 (Iowa 1924).
                                     Oshel v. Creston Comm. School Dist., DPI Admin. Doc. 570 (1981).
                                     Iowa Code §§ 257.6; 282.1, .2, .6, .7, .24.

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009                

Parents within the school district who have children over age six and under age sixteen by September 15, in proper physical and mental condition to attend school, will have the children attend the school district at the attendance center designated by the board. Students will attend school the number of days school is in session in accordance with the school calendar. Students of compulsory attendance age will attend school a minimum of 1080 hours. Students not attending the minimum days must be exempted by this policy as listed below or, referred to the county attorney. Exceptions to this policy include children who:

• have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or have obtained a high school equivalency diploma;
• are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;
• are attending an approved or probationary approved private college preparatory school;
• are attending an accredited nonpublic school;
• are receiving independent private instruction; or,
• are receiving competent private instruction.

It is the responsibility of the parent of a child to provide evidence of the child's mental and physical inability to attend school or of the child's qualifications for one of the exceptions listed above.

The principal will investigate the cause for a student's truancy. If the principal is unable to secure the truant student's attendance, the principal should discuss the next step with the school board. If after school board action, the student is still truant, principal will refer the matter over to the county attorney.

The school will participate in mediation if requested by the county attorney. The superintendent will represent the school district in mediation. The school district will monitor the student's compliance with the mediation agreement and will report violations of the mediation agreement to the county attorney. 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 259A; 279.10-.11; ch. 299; 299A.
                                     441 I.A.C. 41.25(8).

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                      601.1 School Calendar
                                      604.1 Competent Private Instruction

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024   
Revised: May 2009           

Children in the school district community will be allowed to enroll in the school district's regular education program beginning at age five. The child must be age five on or prior to September 15 to participate in the school district's kindergarten program. The child must be age six on or prior to September 15 to begin the first grade of the education program.

Before the student may enroll in the district’s education program, the board will require evidence of age and residency in the form of a birth certificate or other evidence of age. It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine what is satisfactory evidence for proof of age.

Prior to enrollment, the child must provide the administration with their health and immunization certificate. Failure to provide this information within the time period set by the superintendent is reason for suspension, expulsion or denying admission to the student.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 282.1, .3, .6.

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                       507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates

Approved: August 1996
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009             

The board will have complete discretion to determine the boundaries for each attendance center, to assign students to the attendance centers.

Parents or guardians of siblings in the same grade level academically in grades kindergarten through grade five may request the siblings be placed in the same or different classrooms.  In order to be valid, the request must be made in writing and submitted to the school principal at the time of registration for classes, or within fourteen days after the children’s first day of attendance during the school year.  If a valid request is received by the school principal, the request must be honored.  While a parent or guardian may make a placement request that siblings be placed together or apart, the district administration retains complete discretion to select the classroom teacher(s) to which siblings are assigned.  If after the initial grading period following the placement of siblings in the same or different classrooms the school principal determines the placement is disruptive to the class; the principal may assign one or more of the siblings to different classrooms.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board annually regarding the assigned attendance center for each student.  In making the recommendation, the superintendent will consider the geographical layout of the school district, the condition and location of the school district facilities, the location of student population, possible transportation challenges, financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the superintendent or the board.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.11; 282.7-.8.

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance

Approved: August 1996
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024 
Revised: May 2009             

Students who transfer into the school district must meet the immunization and age requirements set out for students who initially enroll in the school district.

The school district will request the student's cumulative records from the previous school district. If the student cannot offer proof of grade level, the superintendent will make the grade level determination. The superintendent may require testing or other information to determine the grade level. Students expelled or suspended from their previous school district will only be enrolled after approval of the board.

The superintendent will determine the amount of credits to be transferred. If the student has not previously attended an accredited school, it is within the superintendent's discretion to accept or reject credits or grades.

The board may deny admission if the student is not willing to provide the board with the necessary information.

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232g.
                                     Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 282.1, .3, .4; 299A.

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                      505.3 Student Honors and Awards
                                      507 Student Health and Well-Being
                                      604.1 Competent Private Instruction

Approved: August 1996
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024   
Revised: May 2009            

If the student's parents wish to withdraw or transfer the student from school prior to completing and graduating from the education program, they should notify the superintendent in writing as soon as possible of the decision to withdraw or transfer the student from the education program. The student or parent should present this written notice at the office and receive instructions regarding the return of textbooks, library books, locker equipment, hot lunch tickets, etc.

The notice should state the student's final day of attendance. If the student is not enrolling in another school district, the school district will maintain the student's records in the same manner as the records of students who have graduated from the school district.

If the parents wish to have the student's cumulative record sent to the new school district, the parents must notify the superintendent in writing. This notice will include the name of the school district and the person at the new school district to whom the student's cumulative records should be sent. If the new school district requests the student's cumulative records, the school district will forward the cumulative records and notify the parents the records have been sent. The notice will inform the parents of their right to review the records sent.

If the student is of compulsory education age and not transferring to another public school district or an accredited nonpublic school, the parents will notify the superintendent that the student is receiving competent private instruction and file the necessary competent private instruction reports.   

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232g.
                                      Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 299.1-.1A.

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                      506 Student Records
                                      604.1 Competent Private Instruction

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009            

As part of the school district's records, the daily attendance of each student is recorded and maintained on file with the permanent records of the board secretary.

It is the responsibility of the principals to ensure that such reports are filed with the board secretary, the custodian of school records.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299.
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                       506 Student Records

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009              

501.09 - Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy

The district believes that traditional, in-person school attendance leads to the greatest learning opportunities for students. Students who are present in school and engaged active learners take greater ownership over their educational outcomes.  For this reason, it is the priority of the district to foster regular student attendance throughout the school year and reduce barriers to regular attendance for students in the district.

Chronic absenteeism/absences means any absence from school for more than ten percent of the days in the semester as established by the district.

Truant/truancy means a child of compulsory attendance age who is absent from school for any reason for at least twenty percent of the days in the semester. Truancy does not apply to the following students who:

• have completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or has obtained a high school equivalency diploma

• are excused for sufficient reason by any court of record or judge;

• are attending religious services or receiving religious instruction;

• are unable to attend school due to legitimate medical reasons;

• have an individualized education program than affects the student's attendance;

• have a plan under section 504 of the federal Rehabilitation Act, 29 U.S.C. §794, that affects the child's attendance;

• are attending a private college preparatory school accredited or probationally accredited;

• are excused under Iowa Code §299.22; and

• are exempt under Iowa Code §299.24.

Students are subject to disciplinary action for truancy including suspension and expulsion.  It is within the discretion of the principal to determine, in light of the circumstances, whether a student may make up work missed because of truancy.  Students receiving special education services will not be assigned to supervised study hall, in-school suspension unless the goals and objectives of the student's Individualized Education Program are capable of being met.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the designated school officials, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.  The administrative regulations will indicate the disciplinary action to be taken for truancy.

This is a mandatory policy.
 

Regular attendance by the students at school is essential for students to obtain the maximum opportunities from the education program. Parents and students alike are encouraged to ensure an absence from school is a necessary absence. Students will attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center.

Truancy is the failure to attend school for the minimum number of days established in the school calendar by the board. Truancy is the act of being absent without a reasonable excuse. These absences will include, but not be limited to, tardiness, shopping, hunting, concerts, preparation or participation in parties and other celebrations and employment. Truancy will not be tolerated by the board.

Students are subject to disciplinary action for truancy including suspension and expulsion. It is within the discretion of the principal to determine, in light of the circumstances, whether a student may make up work missed because of truancy. Students receiving special education services will not be assigned to [supervised study hall, in-school suspension] unless the goals and objectives of the student's Individualized Education Program are capable of being met.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy. The administrative regulations will indicate the disciplinary action to be taken for truancy.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299.
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

Cross Reference:  206.3 Secretary
                                       410.3 Truancy Officer
                                       501 Student Attendance
                                       503 Student Discipline
                                       504 Student Activities
                                       506 Student Records

Approved: August 1996
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, August 2024
Revised: May 2009, April 2024        

Students will be allowed to leave the school district facilities during school hours only with prior authorization from their parents, unless the parent appears personally at the student's attendance center to arrange for the release of the student during school hours, or with the permission of the principal.

Approved reasons for release of a student during the school day will include, but not be limited to,  illness, family emergencies, medical appointments, religious instruction, classes outside the student's attendance center, employment for which the student has been issued a work permit  and other reasons determined appropriate by the principal.

Students in grades 12 may be allowed to leave the school district facilities when they are not scheduled to be in class. Students who violate school rules may have this privilege suspended.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy. 

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 294.4.
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                       503 Student Discipline
                                       504 Student Activities
                                       506 Student Records

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009                

The board encourages pregnant students to continue to attend the education program as long as they are physically able to do so. The pregnant student may notify the principal or the guidance counselor as soon as she is aware of the pregnancy. The school may require that a pregnant student provide the principal with a written note from her doctor relative to special conditions that might exist and specific suggestions as to how long the student may continue to attend classes. If the student is unable to attend school because of her pregnancy, the student may be excused and arrangements made to continue her studies during her absence. The student will resume classes upon the recommendation of her physician.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 216; 279.8; 280.3.

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                       604.2 Individualized Instruction

Approved: August 1996 
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009                

Students who have attained legal age may continue the education program without payment of tuition as long as they are eligible to attend an Iowa public school and are residents of the school district.

Parents will be allowed to access and view the student's records without written permission from the student if the student is still a dependent for tax purposes. In most cases, with the discretion of the principal or the superintendent, the student will be able to make decisions and sign documents rather than requiring parental permission or signature.

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232g.
                                      Iowa Code §§ 22; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4; 599.1; 622.10.
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                      506 Student Records

Approved: August 1996
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009                

The school district will participate in open enrollment as a sending district. As a sending district, the board will allow resident students who meet the requirements to open enroll to another public school district.

Parents requesting open enrollment out of the school district for their student will notify the sending and receiving school district no later than March 1 in the school year preceding the first year desired for open enrollment. The notice is made on forms provided by the Department of Education. The forms are available at the central administration office.

Parents of children who will begin kindergarten in the school district are exempt from the open enrollment March 1 deadline. Parents of children who will begin kindergarten will file in the same manner set forth above by September 1. Parents who have good cause as defined by law for failing to meet the March 1 deadline may make an open enrollment request by September 1 unless another deadline applies.

The receiving district will approve open enrollment requests according to the timelines established by law. The parents may withdraw the open enrollment request prior to the start of the school year. The receiving district's superintendent will notify the parents and sending school district by mail within five days of the school district's action to approve or deny the open enrollment request.

The board will not approve a student's request to allow the receiving district to enter the school district for the purposes of transportation.

An open enrollment request out of the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The determining factor for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the receiving school district is appropriate for the student's needs. The area education agency director of special education serving the receiving district will determine whether the program is appropriate. The special education student will remain in the school district until the final determination is made.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to maintain open enrollment request applications and notice forms. It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop appropriate office procedures and administrative regulations necessary for open enrollment requests.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1.
                                      281 I.A.C. 17.

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                       506 Student Records

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009                

The school district will participate in open enrollment as a receiving district. As a receiving district, the board will allow nonresident students, who meet the legal requirements, to open enroll into the school district. The board will have complete discretion to determine the attendance center of the students attending the school district under open enrollment.

The superintendent will approve (select those appropriate - timely filed applications by June 1; incoming kindergarten applications; good cause application; or continuation of an educational program application filed by the third Thursday of the following September).

The superintendent will notify the sending school district and parents within five days of the school district's action to approve or deny the open enrollment request.

Open enrollment requests into the school district will not be approved if insufficient classroom space exists. Open enrollment requests into the school district will also not be approved for students who have been suspended or expelled by the administration or the board of the school district the student is or was attending until the student has been reinstated into the school district from which the student was suspended or expelled. Once the student is reinstated, the student's open enrollment request will be considered in the same manner as other open enrollment requests provided the required timelines are met.

Open enrollment requests into the school district that, if denied, would result in students from the same nuclear family being enrolled in different school districts, will be given highest priority. The board, in its discretion, may waive the insufficient classroom space reason for denial for students of the same nuclear family to prevent the division of a nuclear family between two school districts. Other open enrollment requests into the school district are considered in the order received by the school district with the first open enrollment request given a higher priority than the second open enrollment request and so forth.

Generally, students in grades nine through twelve open enrolling into the school district will not be eligible for participation in interscholastic athletics, at the varsity level, during the first ninety days of open enrollment into the school district.

Parents of students whose open enrollment requests are approved by the (board or superintendent) are responsible for providing transportation to and from the receiving school district without reimbursement. The board will not approve transportation into the sending district.

An open enrollment request into the school district from parents of a special education student is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The determining factors for approval of such an open enrollment request will be whether the special education program available in the school district is appropriate for the student's needs and whether the enrollment of the special education student will cause the class size to exceed the maximum allowed. The area education agency director of special education serving the school district will determine whether the program is appropriate. The special education student will remain in the sending district until the final determination is made.

The policies of the school district will apply to students attending the school district under open enrollment.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop appropriate office procedures and administrative regulations necessary for open enrollment requests.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1.
                                       281 I.A.C. 17.

Cross Reference:  501.6 Student Transfers In
                                       501.7 Student Transfers Out or Withdrawals
                                       501.14 Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Sending District
                                       506 Student Records
                                       507 Student Health and Well-Being
                                       606.6 Insufficient Classroom Space

Approved: August 1996 
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009                

The Dunkerton Community school district believes all students should have access to a free, appropriate public education. The district will ensure that homeless children and youth have equal access to the same free, appropriate public education as other children and youth.

The term "homeless children and youth" means individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. The term includes:

• Children and youth who are:
  • Sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason (sometimes referred to as "doubled up");
  • Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations;
  • Living in emergency or transitional shelters; or
  • Abandoned in hospitals.
• Children and youth who have a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as, a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings;
• Children and youth who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings; and
• Migratory children who qualify as homeless because they are living in circumstances described above.

To help ensure that homeless children and youth have a full opportunity to enroll, attend, and succeed at school, the board shall:

• Designate the school social worker as the local homeless children and youth liaison;
• Provide training opportunities for staff so staff may help identify and meet the needs of homeless children and youth;
• Remove barriers, including those associated with fees, fines, and absences, to the identification, enrollment, retention, attendance and/or success in school for homeless children and youth;
• Ensure collaboration and coordination with other service providers;
• Ensure transportation is provided in accordance with legal requirements;
• Provide school stability in school assignment according to the child's best interests;
• Ensure the privacy of student records, as provided by applicable law, including information about a homeless child or youth's living situation;
• Engage in the dispute resolution process for decisions relating to the educational placement of homeless children and youth as provided by applicable law; and
• Prohibit the segregation of a homeless child or youth from other students enrolled in the district.

The superintendent may develop an administrative process or procedures to implement this policy.

• The "Education Department Releases Guidance on Homeless Children and Youth" section of the United States Department of Education's website, located at:
  • http://www.ed.gov/news/press-releases/education-department-releases-guidance-homeless-children-and-youth.
• The "Homeless Education" section of the Iowa Department of Education's website, located at:
  • https://www.educateiowa.gov/pk-12/title-programs/title-x-part-c-homeless-education

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 6301.
                                       42 U.S.C. § 11302.
                                       42 U.S.C. §§ 11431 et seq.
                                       281 I.A.C. 33.

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                       503.3 Fines - Fees - Charges
                                       506 Student Records
                                       507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates
                                       603.3 Special Education
                                       711.1 Student School Transportation Eligibility

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, April 2024
Revised: May 2009                

The board believes inappropriate student appearance causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors.

Students are expected to adhere to standards of cleanliness and dress that are compatible with the requirements of a good learning environment. The standards will be those generally acceptable to the community as appropriate in a school setting.

The board expects students to be clean and well-groomed and wear clothes in good repair and appropriate for the time, place and occasion. Clothing or other apparel promoting products illegal for use by minors and clothing displaying obscene material, profanity, or reference to prohibited conduct are disallowed. While the primary responsibility for appearance lies with the students and their parents, appearance disruptive to the education program will not be tolerated. When, in the judgment of a principal, a student's appearance or mode of dress disrupts the educational process or constitutes a threat to health or safety, the student may be required to make modifications.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:  Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
                                      Bethal School District v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
                                      Tinker v. Des Moines Ind. Comm. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969).
                                      Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
                                      Torvik v. Decorah Community School, 453 F.2d 779 (8th Cir. 1972).
                                      Turley v. Adel Community School District, 322 F.Supp. 402 (S.D. Iowa 1971).
                                      Sims v. Colfax Comm. School Dist., 307 F.Supp. 485 (Iowa 1970).
                                      Iowa Code § 279.8.

Cross Reference:  500 Objectives for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students
                                       502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Students will treat school district property with the care and the respect they would treat their own property. Students found to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school district property may be required to reimburse the school district. They may be subject to discipline under board policy and the school district rules and regulations. They may also be referred to local law enforcement authorities.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative rules regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.4, .5; 613.16.

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                       802.1 Maintenance Schedule

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020 
Revised: May 2009                

It is the goal of the district to protect the educational environment for all students to help ensure it is free from substantial disruption or infringement upon their rights.  Student expression should be appropriate to ensure that the students learn and meet the goals of the school activity and that the potential audience is not exposed to material that may be harmful or inappropriate for their level of maturity.

While students will generally be allowed to express their viewpoints and opinions, in certain qualifying circumstances, student speech may require administrative regulation to help ensure the safety and welfare of the school community.  The district may regulate speech that:  causes or is reasonably anticipated to cause a material and substantial disruption to the education environment; infringes upon the rights of others; is obscene or lewd; is school sponsored; and/or promotes illegal activity.  The administration, when making this judgment, will consider whether the activity in which the expression was made is school-sponsored and whether review or prohibition of the students' speech furthers an educational purpose.  The expression must be done in a reasonable time, place, and manner that is not disruptive to the orderly and efficient operation of the school district.

The superintendent may develop procedures for safely addressing qualifying types of mass protests by students, including walk-ins and walk-outs.  Walk-ins occur when students leave their learning environments during school hours and gather in a group or groups with the purpose of promoting a belief or beliefs.  Walk-outs occur when students leave their learning environments during school hours and gather in a group or groups off district property with the purpose of promoting a belief or beliefs.

The superintendent is encouraged to obtain feedback from community stakeholders in the development of these procedures.  The goal of the procedures shall be to address student safety, maintain the education environment and promote communication during demonstrations while remaining viewpoint neutral.

Students who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary measures.  Employees are responsible for insuring students' expression is in keeping with this policy.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:  U.S. Const. amend. I.
                                        Iowa Const. art. I (sec. 7)
                                        Morse v. Frederick, 551 U.S. 393 (2007)
                                        Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
                                        Bethel School District v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
                                        New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).
                                        Tinker v. Des Moines Ind. Comm. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969).
                                        Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
                                        Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.22

Cross Reference:  102 Equal Educational Opportunity
                                        502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                        504 Student Activities
                                        603.9 Academic Freedom
                                        903.5 Distribution of Materials

Approved: August 1996  
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Student complaints and grievances regarding board policy or administrative regulations and other matters should be addressed to the student's teacher or another licensed employee, other than the administration, for resolution of the complaint. It is the goal of the board to resolve student complaints at the lowest organizational level.

If the complaint cannot be resolved by a licensed employee, the student may discuss the matter with the principal within 5 days of the employee's decision. If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within 5 days after speaking with the principal.

If the matter is not satisfactorily resolved by the superintendent, the student may ask to have the matter placed on the board agenda of a regularly scheduled board meeting in compliance with board policy.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8.

Cross Reference:  210.8 Board Meeting Agenda
                                       213 Public Participation in Board Meetings
                                       307 Communication Channels
                                       502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                       504.3 Student Publications

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Student lockers are the property of the school district. Students will use the lockers assigned to them by the school district for storing their school materials and personal belongings necessary for attendance at school. It is the responsibility of students to keep their assigned lockers clean and undamaged.

To ensure students are properly maintaining their assigned lockers, the principal of the building may periodically inspect all or a random selection of lockers. Either students or another individual will be present during the inspection of lockers. Student lockers may also be searched, at any time and without advance notice, in compliance with board policy regulating search and seizure.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.14; 808A.

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

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

School district facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons, dangerous objects and look-a-likes. Weapons and other dangerous objects and look-a-likes will be taken from students and others who bring them onto the school district property or onto property within the jurisdiction of the school district or from students who are within the control of the school district.

Parents of students found to possess weapons, dangerous objects or look-a-likes on school property are notified of the incident. Possession or confiscation of weapons, dangerous objects or look-a-likes will be reported to law enforcement officials, and students will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.

Students bringing firearms to school or knowingly possessing firearms at school will be expelled for not less than one year. The superintendent has the authority to recommend this expulsion requirement be modified for students on a case-by-case basis. For purposes of this portion of this policy, the term "firearm" includes, but is not limited to, any weapon which is designed to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such weapon, a muffler or silencer for such a weapon, any explosive, incendiary or poison gas, or otherwise defined by applicable law.

Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials or other individuals specifically authorized by the board are exempt from this policy. The superintendent may develop an administrative process or procedures to implement the policy.  

Legal Reference:  18 U.S.C. § 921
                                       Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 483A.27(11), 724
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                       503 Student Discipline
                                       507 Student Health and Well-Being

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020 
Revised: May 2009                

The board prohibits the distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol, tobacco, other controlled substances, or "look alike" substances that appear to be tobacco, beer, wine, alcohol or controlled substances by students while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.

The board believes such illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials generally cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors.

Violation of this policy by students will result in disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion. Use, purchase or being in possession of cigarettes, tobacco or tobacco products for those under the age of eighteen, may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities. Possession, use or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol and/or of a controlled substance may also be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.

Students who violate the terms of this policy may be required to satisfactorily complete a substance abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved by the school board. If such student fails to satisfactorily complete such a program, the student may be subject to discipline including suspension or expulsion.

The board believes the substance abuse prevention program will include:

• Age-appropriate, developmentally-based drug and alcohol curriculum for students in grades kindergarten through twelve, which address the legal, social, and health consequences of tobacco, drug and alcohol use and which provide information about effective techniques for resisting peer pressure to use tobacco, drugs or alcohol;
• A statement to students that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is wrong and harmful;
• Standards of conduct for students that clearly prohibit, at a minimum, the unlawful possession, use, being under the influence of or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students on school premises or as part of any of its activities;
• A clear statement that disciplinary sanctions, up to and including suspension or expulsion and referral for prosecution, will be imposed on students who violate the policy and a description of those sanctions;
• A statement that students may be required to successfully complete an appropriate rehabilitation program;
• Information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation and re-entry programs available to students;
• A requirement that parents and students be given a copy of the standards of conduct and the statement of disciplinary sanctions required; and,
• Notification to parents and students that compliance with the standards of conduct is mandatory.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy 

Legal Reference:  34 C.F.R. Pt. 86.
                                      Iowa Code §§ 123.46; 124; 279.8, .9; 453A.
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); .5(3)(e), .5(4)(e), .5(5)(e).

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      503 Student Discipline
                                      507 Student Health and Well-Being

 Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

School district property is held in public trust by the board. School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search students or protected student areas based on a reasonable and articulable suspicion that a school district policy, rule, regulation or law has been violated. The search is in a manner reasonable in scope to maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students, employees and visitors to the school district facilities. The furnishing of a locker, desk or other facility or space owned by the school and provided as a courtesy to a student, even if the student provides the lock for it, will not create a protected student area and will not give rise to an expectation of privacy with respect to the locker, desk, or other facility.

School authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search. Items of contraband may include, but are not limited to, nonprescription controlled substances, marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, apparatus used for controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, weapons, explosives, poisons and stolen property. Such items are not to be possessed by a student while they are on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district. Possession of such items will be grounds for disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion and may be reported to local law enforcement officials. The board believes that illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials may cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.  

Legal Reference:  U.S. Const. amend. IV.
                                       New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).
                                       Cason v. Cook, 810 F.2d 188 (8th Cir. 1987), cert. den., 482 U.S. 930 (1987).
                                       Iowa Code ch. 808A.
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                       503 Student Discipline

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Generally, students may not be interviewed during the school day by persons other than parents and school district officials and employees.

Requests from law enforcement officers and from persons other than parents, school district officials, and employees to interview students are made through the principal's office. Upon receiving a request, it is the responsibility of the principal to determine whether the request will be granted. Generally, prior to granting a request, the principal will attempt to contact the parents to inform them of the request and to ask them to be present.

If a child abuse investigator wishes to interview a student, the principal will defer to the investigator's judgment as to whether the student should be interviewed independently from the student's parents, whether the school is the most appropriate setting for the interview, and who will be present during the interview.

Students will not be taken from school without the consent of the principal and without proper warrant.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 232; 280.17.
                                       281 I.A.C. 102.
                                       441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.

Cross Reference:  402.2 Child Abuse Reporting
                                       502.8 Search and Seizure
                                       503 Student Discipline
                                       902.4 Students and the News Media

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

The board believes inappropriate student conduct causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment, interferes with the rights of others, or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, and visitors on school premises. Appropriate classroom behavior allows teachers to communicate more effectively with students.

Students will conduct themselves in a manner fitting to their age level and maturity and with respect and consideration for the rights of others while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district. Consequences for the misconduct will be fair and developmentally appropriate in light of the circumstances.

Students who fail to abide by this policy, and the administrative regulations supporting it, may be disciplined for conduct which disrupts or interferes with the education program; conduct which disrupts the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school activity; conduct which disrupts the rights of other students to participate in or obtain their education; conduct that is violent or destructive; or conduct which interrupts the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere. Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to, removal from the classroom, detention, suspension, probation, and expulsion.

A student who commits an assault against an employee on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-owned or school-operated chartered vehicles; or while attending or engaged in school district activities will be suspended by the principal. Notice of the suspension is sent to the board president. The board will review the suspension and decide whether to hold a disciplinary hearing to determine whether to impose further sanctions against the student which may include expulsion. In making its decision, the board shall consider the best interests of the school district, which shall include what is best to protect and ensure the safety of the school employees and students from the student committing the assault. Assault for purposes of this section of this policy is defined as, when, without justification, a student does any of the following:

• an act which is intended to cause pain or injury to, or which is intended to result in physical contact which will be insulting or offensive to another, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or
• any act which is intended to place another in fear of immediate physical contact which will be painful, injurious, insulting or offensive, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act; or
• intentionally points any firearm toward another or displays in a threatening manner any dangerous weapon toward another.

The act is not an assault when the person doing any of the above and the other person are voluntary participants in a sport, social or other activity, not in itself criminal, when the act is a reasonably foreseeable incident of such sport or activity, and does not create an unreasonable risk of serious injury or breach of the peace.

Removal from the classroom means a student is sent to the building principal's office. It is within the discretion of the person in charge of the classroom to remove the student.

Detention means the student's presence is required during non-school hours for disciplinary purposes. The student can be required to appear prior to the beginning of the school day, after school has been dismissed for the day, or on a non-school day. Whether a student will serve detention, and the length of the detention, is within the discretion of the licensed employee or the building principal, disciplining the student.

Suspension means; either an in-school suspension, an out-of-school suspension, a restriction from activities or loss of eligibility. An in-school suspension means the student will attend school but will be temporarily isolated from one or more classes while under supervision. An in-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days. An out-of-school suspension means the student is removed from the school environment, which includes school classes and activities. An out-of-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days. A restriction from school activities means a student will attend school and classes and practice but will not participate in school activities.

Probation means a student is given a conditional suspension of a penalty for a definite period of time in addition to being reprimanded. The conditional suspension will mean the student must meet the conditions and terms for the suspension of the penalty. Failure of the student to meet these conditions and terms will result in immediate reinstatement of the penalty.

Expulsion means an action by the board to remove a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, for a period of time set by the board.

Discipline of special education students, including suspensions and expulsions, will comply with the provisions of applicable federal and state laws.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:  Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).
                                      Brands v. Sheldon Community School District, 671 F. Supp. 627 (N.D. Iowa 1987).
                                      Sims v. Colfax Comm. School Dist., 307 F. Supp. 485 (Iowa 1970).
                                      Bunger v. Iowa High School Athletic Assn., 197 N.W.2d 555 (Iowa 1972).
                                      Board of Directors of Ind. School Dist. of Waterloo v. Green, 259 Iowa 1260, 147 N.W.2d 854 (1967).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 282.3, 282.4, 282.5; 708.1.
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                      502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      504 Student Activities
                                      603.3 Special Education
                                      903.5 Distribution of Materials

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Only the board may remove a student from the school environment. The removal of a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, is an expulsion from school.

Students may be expelled for violations of board policy, school rules or the law. It is within the discretion of the board to discipline a student by using an expulsion for a single offense or for a series of offenses depending on the nature of the offense and the circumstances surrounding the offense.

It is within the discretion of the superintendent to recommend to the board the expulsion of a student for disciplinary purposes. Only the board may take action to expel a student and to readmit the student. The principal will keep records of expulsions in addition to the board's records.

When a student is recommended for expulsion by the board, the student is provided with:

1. Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion;
2. The names of the witnesses and an oral or written report on the facts to which each witness testifies unless the witnesses are students whose names may be released at the discretion of the superintendent;
3. An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide either oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student's behalf;
4. The right to be represented by counsel; and,
5. The results and finding of the board in writing open to the student's inspection.

In addition to these procedures, a special education student must be provided with additional procedures. A determination should be made of whether the student is actually guilty of the misconduct. A staffing team should determine whether the student's behavior is caused by the student's disability and whether the conduct is the result of inappropriate placement. Discussions and conclusions of this meeting should be recorded.

If the special education student's conduct is not caused by the disability, the student may be expelled or suspended for a long-term period following written notice to the parent and pursuant to the school district's expulsion hearing procedures. If the misconduct is caused by the disability and a change in placement is recommended, the change must be made pursuant to the placement procedures used by the school district. 

Legal Reference:  Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).
                                      Wood v. Strickland, 420 U.S. 308 (1975).
                                      Southeast Warren Comm. School District v. Dept. of Public Instruction, 285 N.W.2d 173 (Iowa 1979).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 21.5; 282.3, .4, .5.
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      503 Student Discipline

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

The board believes students should respect school district property and assist in its preservation for future use by others. Students may be assessed fines, charges, or fees for the materials needed in a course, for overdue school materials, for participating in activities, or for misuse of school property.

The superintendent will inform the board of the dollar amount to be charged to students or others for fines, charges, or fees annually. Parents of students meeting specific financial eligibility standards will be eligible for a waiver of student fees or a reduction of student fees based upon the request of the parent. It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.7(20); 279.8; 280.10, .11; 282.6; 285.1; 301.1.
                                       281 I.A.C. 18.2.

Cross Reference:  501.16 Homeless Children & Youth
                                       502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                       503 Student Discipline

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Participation in school activities is a privilege. School activities provide the benefits of promoting additional interests and abilities in the students during their school years and for their lifetimes.

Students who participate in extracurricular activities serve as ambassadors of the school district throughout the calendar year, whether away from school or at school. Students who wish to have the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities must conduct themselves in accordance with board policy and must refrain from activities which are illegal, immoral or unhealthy.

Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures. The principal will keep records of violations of the good conduct rule.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop rules and regulations for school activities. Students wanting to participate in school activities must meet the requirements set out by the school district for participation in the activity.

Legal Reference:  Bunger v. Iowa High School Athletic Assn., 197 N.W.2d 555 (Iowa 1972).
                                      In re Jason Clark, 1 D.P.I. App. Dec. 167 (1978).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 280.13, .13A.
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 36.15(1).

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      503 Student Discipline
                                      504 Student Activities

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional physical punishment of a student and is prohibited. It includes the use of unreasonable or unnecessary physical force or physical contact made with the intent to harm or cause pain. No employee is prohibited from:

• Using reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain, in order to accomplish any of the following:
  • To quell a disturbance or prevent an act that threatens physical harm to any person.
  • To obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object within a pupil's control.
  • For the purposes of self-defense or defense of others as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.3.
  • For the protection of property as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.4 or 704.5.
  • To remove a disruptive pupil from class or any area of school premises or from school-sponsored activities off school premises.
  • To protect a student from the self-infliction of harm.
  • To protect the safety of others.
• Using incidental, minor, or reasonable physical contact to maintain order and control.

Reasonable physical force should be commensurate with the circumstances of the situation. The following factors should be considered in using reasonable physical force for the reasons stated in this policy:

1. The size and physical, mental, and psychological condition of the student;
2. The nature of the student's behavior or misconduct provoking the use of physical force;
3. The instrumentality used in applying the physical force;
4. The extent and nature of resulting injury to the student, if any;
5. The motivation of the school employee using physical force.

Upon request, the student's parents are given an explanation of the reasons for physical force.

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

Legal Reference:  Ingraham v. Wright, 430 U.S. 651 (1977).
                                      Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).
                                      Tinkham v. Kole, 252 Iowa 1303, 110 N.W.2d 258 (1961).
                                      Lai v. Erickson, PTPC Admin. Doc. 83-12 (1983).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21.
                                      281 I.A.C.12.3(6); 103.

Cross Reference:  402.3 Abuse of Students by School District Employees
                                      502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      503 Student Discipline

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                 

It is the goal of the district that all students can learn and grow in a safe and peaceful environment that nurtures the student and models respect for oneself and others.  On occasion, trained district employees and others may have to use behavior management interventions, physical restraint and/or seclusion of students.  The goal of these interventions is to promote the dignity, care, safety, welfare and security of each child and the school community.  With this objective in mind, the district will prioritize the use of the least restrictive behavioral interventions appropriate for the situation.

Physical restraint means a personal restriction that immobilizes or reduces the ability of a student to move the student’s arms, legs, body, or head freely.  Physical restraint does not mean a technique used by trained school personnel, or used by a student, for the specific and approved therapeutic or safety purposes for which the technique was designed and, if applicable, prescribed.  Physical restraint does not include instructional strategies, such as physically guiding a student during an educational task, hand-shaking, hugging, or other non-disciplinary physical contact.

Seclusion means the involuntary confinement of a child in a seclusion room or area from which the child is prevented or prohibited from leaving; however, preventing a child from leaving a classroom or school building are not considered seclusion.  Seclusion does not include instances when a school employee is present within the room and providing services to the child, such as crisis intervention or instruction.

Physical restraint or seclusion is reasonable or necessary only:

• To prevent or terminate an imminent threat of bodily injury to the student or others; or
• To prevent serious damage to property of significant monetary value or significant non monetary value or importance; or
• When the student’s actions seriously disrupt the learning environment or when physical restraint or seclusion is necessary to ensure the safety of the student or others; and
• When less restrictive alternatives to seclusion or physical restraint would not be effective, would not be feasible under the circumstances, or have failed in preventing or terminating the imminent threat or behavior; and
• When the physical restraint or seclusion complies with all applicable laws.

Prior to using physical restraint or seclusion, employees must receive training in accordance with the law.  Any individual who is not employed by the district but whose duties could require the individual to use or be present during the use of physical restraint or seclusion on a student will be invited to participate in the same training offered to employees on this topic.

When required by law, the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee will ensure a post-occurrence debriefing meeting is held, maintain documentation and fulfill all reporting requirements for each occurrence of physical restraint or seclusion as required by law.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21.
                                       281 I.A.C. 103.

Cross Reference:  402.3 Abuse of Students by School District Employees
                                       502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                       503 Student Discipline
                                       503.5  Corporal Punishment

Approved  February 2021                  

Code No. 503.8

DISCIPLINE OF STUDENTS WHO MAKE THREATS OF VIOLENCE OR CAUSE INCIDENTS OF VIOLENCE

Definitions

Detention means the student's presence is required during non-school hours for disciplinary purposes. The  student can be required to appear prior to the beginning of the school day, after school has been dismissed  for the day or on a non-school day. Whether a student will serve detention, and the length of the detention, is  within the discretion of the licensed employee or the building principal disciplining the student. 

Expulsion means an action by the board to remove a student from the school environment, which includes,  but is not limited to, classes and activities, for a period of time set by the board.

Suspension to WEBC means the student will attend school but will be temporarily isolated from one or more  classes while under supervision at an alternative setting, in Hudson’s case this is the Waterloo Behavioral Center. An in-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days. 

Out-of-school suspension means the student is removed from the school environment, which includes school classes and activities. An out-of-school suspension will not exceed ten consecutive school days  unless due process is provided as required by federal and state law. A restriction from school activities  means a student will attend school and classes and practice but will not participate in school activities. 

Placement in an alternate learning environment means placement of a student in an environment  established apart from the regular educational program that includes rules, staff and resources designed to  accommodate student needs and to provide a comprehensive education consistent with the student learning  goals and content standards established by the school district.

Removal from the classroom means a student is sent to the building principal's office. It is within the  discretion of the person in charge of the classroom to remove the student.

Adopted: 04/23/2024               Reviewed:                                           Revised:

The student council provides for student activities, serves as a training experience for student leaders, promotes the common good, gives students a share in the management of the school, develops high ideals of personal conduct, acts as a clearinghouse for student activities, seeks to interest students in school district affairs and helps solve problems that may arise. Members of the council are student representatives who have direct access to the administration.

The principal, in conjunction with the students and licensed employees, will set forth the guidelines for the student government's elections, operations, and other elements of the government.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8.

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                       504 Student Activities

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Secondary school student-initiated, noncurriculum-related groups and student curriculum-related groups, upon receiving permission from the principal, may use school facilities for group meetings during non-instructional time.

Non-instructional time will mean any time before the first period of the day and after the last period of the day in which any student attends class. Meetings will not interfere with the orderly conduct of the education program or other school district operations. It is within the discretion of the principal to determine whether the meetings will interfere with the orderly conduct of the education program or other school district operations. Activities relating to and part of the education program will have priority over the activities of another organization.

Curriculum-Related Organizations

It will also be the responsibility of the principal to determine whether a student group is curriculum-related. One or more of the following questions will be answered affirmatively if the group is curriculum-related:

• Is the subject matter of the group actually taught in a regularly offered course?
• Will the subject matter of the group soon be taught in a regularly offered course?
• Does the subject matter of the group concern the body of courses as a whole?
• Is participation in the group required for a particular course?
• Does participation in the group result in academic credit?

Secondary school curriculum-related student organizations may use the school district facilities for meetings and other purposes before and after the instructional school day. Employees are assigned to monitor approved meetings and may interact with curriculum-related organizations.

Noncurriculum-Related Organizations

Student-initiated, noncurriculum-related organizations are provided access to meeting space and school district facilities.

Only students may attend and participate in meetings of noncurriculum-related groups. Such attendance is strictly voluntary and student-initiated. As a means of determining whether a student's attendance is voluntary, the principal may require parental consent for the student to attend the meetings.

Employees will be assigned to monitor approved meetings. Employees will not participate in the meeting or assist in planning, criticizing, or encouraging attendance. Only students may be involved in and attend the noncurriculum group's meetings.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.  

Legal Reference:  Westside Community Board of Education v Mergens, 496 U.S. 226 (1990).
                                      Bender v. Williamsport Area Community School District, 741 F.2d 538 (3d Cir. 1984), vacated and remanded on other grounds, 475 U.S. 534 (1986).
                                      20 U.S.C. §§ 4071-4074.
                                      Iowa Code §§ 287.1-.3; 297.9.

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      504 Student Activities

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Students may produce official school publications as part of the curriculum under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the principal.  Official school publications include material produced in the journalism, newspaper, yearbook, or writing classes and distributed to the student body either free or for a fee.

Any expression made by students, including student expression in official school publications, is not an expression of official school policy.  The school district, the board, and the employees or officials are not liable in any civil or criminal action for any student expression made or published by students unless the employees or officials have interfered with or altered the content of the student speech or expression.  The liability, if any, is only to the extent of the interference or alteration of the speech or expression.

Official school publications are free from prior restraint by employees or officials except as provided by law.  A faculty advisor will supervise student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and to comply with the law including, but not limited to, the restrictions against unlawful speech.  The production of official school publications is guided by the law and by the ethical standards adopted by professional associations or societies of journalism.

Persons, other than students, who believe they have been aggrieved by student expression in a student-produced official school publication will follow the grievance procedure outlined in board policy 213.1.  Students who believe their freedom of expression in a student-produced official school publication has been restricted will follow the grievance procedure outlined in board policy 502.4.

The superintendent is responsible for developing a student publications code.  This code will include, but not be limited to, reasonable rules including time, place, and manner of restrictions.  The superintendent will also be responsible for distributing this policy and the student publications code to the students and their parents.

Legal Reference:  Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
                                       Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
                                       Iowa Code § 280.22.

Cross Reference:  307 Communication Channels
                                      502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      504 Student Activities
                                      903.5 Distribution of Material

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Students, as part of the education program, may participate in contests or other public and private events approved by the superintendent that will be of benefit to the student and the education program. Performance at such events is a privilege.

Students, who perform at such events, serve as ambassadors of the school district and must conduct themselves in the same manner as required in the regular school day. Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures.

Students will be allowed to perform in these events only with proper permission and supervision and when the events do not disrupt the education program or other school district operations. The events must be approved by the superintendent, unless it involves unusual travel and expense, in which case the board must approve of the performance.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy. In developing the administrative regulations, these guidelines should be followed:

• Performances by student groups below the high school level should be allowed on a very limited basis;
• All groups of students should have an opportunity to participate; and,
• Extensive travel by one group of students should be discouraged.

It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether the event will benefit the education program and the participating students. Contests or other performances by students unapproved by the superintendent are the responsibility of the parent and the student.

Legal Reference:  Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
                                       Iowa Code §§ 280.13-.14.
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.6.

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                       503.4 Good Conduct Rule
                                       504 Student Activities
                                       904 Community Activities Involving Students

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Students may raise funds for school-sponsored events with the permission of the principal. Fund raising by students for events other than school-sponsored events is not allowed. Collection boxes for school fund raising must have prior approval from the principal before being placed on school property.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:  Senior Class of Pekin High School v. Tharp, 154 N.W.2d 874 (Iowa 1967).
                                      Iowa Code § 279.8.

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      503 Student Discipline
                                      504 Student Activities
                                      704.5 Student Activities Fund
                                      904.2 Advertising and Promotion

Approved: August 1996                  
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Participation in school activities is a privilege. School activities provide the benefits of promoting additional interests and ability in the students during their school years and for their lifetime.

Students will have an opportunity to participate in a school activity unless the activity is not offered or the student cannot participate for disciplinary reasons. If the activity is an intramural or interscholastic athletic activity, students of the opposite sex will have a comparable opportunity for participation. Comparable opportunity does not guarantee boys and girls will be allowed to play on each other's teams when there are athletic activities available that will allow both boys and girls to reap the benefits of school activities, which are the promotion of additional interests and abilities in the students.

Student activity events must be approved by the superintendent unless they involve unusual travel expense, in which case the board will take action. The events must not disrupt the education program or other school district operations.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for each school activity. These regulations will include, but not be limited to, when physical examinations will be required, how and when parents will be informed about the risk of the activity, academic requirements, and proof of insurance on the student participating in certain activities. Students wanting to participate in school activities must meet the requirements set out by the school district for participation in the activity.

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. §§ 1681-1683; 1685-1686.
                                       34 C.F.R. Pt. 106.41.
                                       Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 280.13-.14.
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 12.6, 36.15(7).

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                       502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                       503 Student Discipline
                                       504 Student Activities
                                       507 Student Health and Well-Being

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Students will receive a progress report at the end of each nine-week grading period.  Students, who are doing poorly, and their parents, are notified prior to the end of the semester in order to have an opportunity to improve their grade.  The board encourages the notification of students who have made marked improvement prior to the end of the semester.

Parent-teacher conferences will be held twice a year at the elementary and middle school to keep parents informed.  High school conferences are not individually scheduled.

Parents, teachers, or principals may request a conference for students in grades kindergarten through twelve in addition to the scheduled conference time.  Parents and students are encouraged to discuss the student's progress or other matters with the student's teacher.          

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .41; 280, 284.12.
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), 12.3(6), .5(16).

Cross Reference:  505 Student Scholastic Achievement
                                      506 Student Records

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Students will be promoted to the next grade level at the end of each school year based on the student's achievement, age, maturity, emotional stability, and social adjustment.

The district shall adhere to the following:

• Retention/Promotion in kindergarten – eighth grade: The retention of a student will be determined based upon the judgment of the district’s professional staff. When it becomes evident a student in grades kindergarten through eight may be retained in a grade level for an additional year, the parents will be informed prior to making the retention decision.  It is within the sole discretion of the district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
• Retention/Promotion in ninth – twelfth grade: Students in grades nine through twelve will be informed of the required coursework necessary to be promoted each year. When it becomes evident a student in these grades will be unable to meet the minimum credit requirements for the year, the student and parents will be informed. It is within the sole discretion of the district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
• Acceleration in kindergarten – twelfth grade: Students in grades kindergarten through twelve with exceptional talents may, with the permission of the principal and parents, take classes beyond their current grade level. Enrichment opportunities outside the school district may be allowed when they do not conflict with the school district's graduation requirements.
• Retention or Acceleration in kindergarten – twelfth grade may also occur in additional instances as provided by law.

Any student or parent who is not satisfied with the decision of the district’s professional staff may seek recourse through policy 502.4 – Student Complaints and Grievances.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .41; 279.8.
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.5(16).

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                      505 Student Scholastic Achievement
                                      603.2 Summer School Instruction

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

The school district will provide a program that establishes honors and awards including, but not limited to, academic letters, scholarships and good citizenship awards for students to assist students in setting goals. Students are made aware of honors and awards and the action necessary on the part of the student to achieve them. Students who have not attended an accredited public or private school for their entire high school education, will not be eligible for honors and awards.

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

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8.

Cross Reference:  504 Student Activities
                                        505 Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

A comprehensive testing program is established and maintained to evaluate the education program of the school district and to assist in providing guidance or counseling services to students and their families.

No student is required, as part of any applicable program, funded by the United State Department of Education, to submit to a survey, analysis or evaluation that reveals information concerning:

• political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student's parent:
• mental or psychological problems of the student or the student's family;
• sex behavior or attitudes;
• illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating or demeaning behavior;
• critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
• legally recognized, privileged and analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians and ministers;
• religious practices, affiliations or beliefs of the student or student's parent; or
• income,(other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program);

without the prior consent of the student (if the student is an adult or emancipated minor), or in the case of an unemancipated minor, without the prior written consent of the parent.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

It is the responsibility of the board to review and approve the evaluation and testing program.

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232h.
                                      Iowa Code §§ 280.3.

Cross Reference:  505 Student Scholastic Achievement
                                      506 Student Records
                                      607.2 Student Health Services

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Students must successfully complete the courses required by the board and Iowa Department of Education in order to graduate.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure that students complete grades one through twelve and that high school students complete 50 credits prior to graduation.  The following credits will be required for graduation.

The required courses of study will be reviewed by the board annually.

Beginning with the class of 2022, graduation requirements for special education students will include successful completion of four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies and three years of science.

Students who complete a regular session in the Legislative Page Program of the general assembly at the state capitol will be credited ½ credit of social studies.

Students enrolled in a junior officers’ training corp will receive 1/8th physical education credit for each semester the student is enrolled in the program.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.7, 11, .41; 279.8; 280.3, .14.
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.3(5); 12.5.

Cross Reference:  505 Student Scholastic Achievement
                                       603.3 Special Education

Approved: August 1996
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009 , December 2021

Generally, students will be required to complete the necessary course work and graduate from high school at the end of grade twelve. Students may graduate prior to this time if they meet the minimum graduation requirements stated in board policy.

A student who graduates early will no longer be considered a student and will become an alumnus of the school district. However, the student who graduates early may participate in commencement exercises.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3.
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.2, .5; 12.3(5).

Cross Reference:  505 Student Scholastic Achievement

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020
Revised: May 2009                

Students who have met the requirements for graduation will be allowed to participate in the commencement proceedings provided they abide by the proceedings organized by the school district. It is the responsibility of the principal to solicit input from each graduating class regarding the proceedings for their commencement.

Failure of a student to participate in commencement will not be a reason for withholding the student's final progress report or diploma certifying the student's completion of high school.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3.
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.5

Cross Reference:  505 Student Scholastic Achievement

It is the policy of Dunkerton Community Schools that parents and family members of participating children shall have the opportunity to be involved jointly in the development of the district plan and in the district's review process for the purpose of school improvement. Recognizing that parental involvement is the key to academic achievement, we seek to involve parents in an effective home-school partnership that will provide the best possible education for our students. The district provides coordination, technical assistance and other supports necessary to aid in the planning and implementation of parent involvement activities. The district encourages parent involvement and supports this partnership through providing information about standards and assessments; providing training and materials for parents to help their children; educating school personnel about involving parents and the value of parent contributions; and developing roles for community organizations and businesses to work with parents and schools.

1. This jointly developed and agreed upon written policy is distributed to parents and family members of participating Title I children with the student’s program entry letter.
2. The district will provide technical assistance and support in planning and implementing effective parent and family engagement activities to improve student academic achievement and school performance through professional development regarding parent and family engagement. The district will partner with community groups as a means to engage families more creatively and successfully.
3. The district will work to find ways to work cooperatively with other Federal, state, and local programs. The Title I program will work with local public preschool programs, Headstart programs, local library programs, and special education programs (IDEA). Our homeless education program coordinates with the local backpack program to offer support to students that are food insecure, especially over the weekends.
4. The district conducts an annual evaluation of the content and effectiveness for the Parent and Family Engagement Policy. The evaluation includes parents in a meaningful manner. In addition to surveys, the district uses focus groups and open discussion groups for this evaluation. Parents and families have a voice. Dunkerton Community Schools utilize program evaluation tools and methods to identify the type and frequency of school-home interactions and the needs of parents and families have to better support and assist their children in learning. The evaluations will target at least three key areas: barriers, ability to assist learning, and successful interactions.
5. The district uses the findings for the annual evaluation to design evidenced-based strategies for more effective parent and family engagement. The evaluation results will help uncover best practices that are working and adapt those ideas to the district and individual school needs.
6. The district involves parents and family members in activities of the school. The district has established a parent advisory committee comprised of a sufficient number and representative group of parents or family members to adequately represent the needs to the population, revised, and reviewed the Parent and Family Engagement Policy.
7. Dunkerton Community Schools will hold two annual meetings to inform parents and family members of the school's participation in the Title I program and to explain the requirements of the program and their right to be involved. These meeting may correspond with fall and spring parent/teacher conferences. Notification of meetings will be sent in district and building newsletters.
8. Parent and family meetings, including parent conferences, will be held at different times during the day and Title I funds may be used to pay reasonable and necessary expenses associated with parent and family engagement activities, including transportation, childcare, or home visit expenses to enable parents to participate in school-related meetings and training sessions.
9. The district will involve parents in the planning, review, and improvement of the school’s Title I program through participation in stakeholder groups and in-person meetings where parents give input and feedback.
10. In Dunkerton Community Schools Title 1 program, parents are asked to be involved in the joint development of the building’s Title 1 plan through in-person meetings, surveys and electronic feedback as appropriate.
11. Parents and family members of participating children are given assistance in understanding the Title I program, with timely information about the Title I program. Through annual meetings and parent-teacher conferences, the school will provide parents and family members of participating children with a description and explanation of the curriculum in use at the school, the forms of academic assessment used to measure student progress, and the proficiency levels students are expected to meet. Parents and family members receive an explanation of the school's performance profile, the forms of academic assessment used to measure student progress, and the expected proficiency levels in the annual progress report distributed to all stockholders in the spring of the year, through individual reports given to parents at conference time, and through report cards.
12. If requested by parents, Dunkerton Community Schools will provide opportunities for regular meetings to formulate suggestions and to participate, as appropriate, in decisions relating to the education of their children, and respond to any such suggestions as soon as practicably possible.
13. If the Title 1 plan under Section 1114(b) is not satisfactory, parents of participating students may comment. Comments may be made in writing to the school principal.
14. A jointly developed school/parent compact outlines how parents and family members, the entire school staff, and students all share responsibility for improved student achievement. The compact also describes the means by which the school and parents will build and develop a partnership to help children achieve our local high standards. It is distributed in the Student Handbook and is reviewed at the annual meetings.
15. Parents will be notified of this policy in an understandable and uniform format and, to the extent practicable, provided in a language the parents can understand. The policy will be provided in English and Spanish and will be free of educational jargon.
16. In order to ensure effective involvement of parents and to support a partnership among the school involved, parents, and the community to improve student academic achievement, each school and local educational agency shall:
    
    1. Provide assistance to parents in understanding challenging State academic standards, State and local academic assessments, the requirements of this part, and how to monitor a child’s progress and work with educators to improve the achievement of their children;
    2. Provide materials and training to help parents to work with their children to improve their children’s achievement, such as literacy training and using technology (including education about the harms of copyright piracy), as appropriate, to foster parental involvement;
    3. Educate teachers, specialized instructional support personnel, principals, and other school leaders, and other staff, with the assistance of parents, in the value and utility of contributions of parents, and in how to reach out to, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners, implement and coordinate parent programs, and build ties between parents and the school;
    4. Coordinate and integrate parent involvement programs and activities with other Federal, State, and local programs, including public preschool programs, and conduct other activities, such as parent resource centers, that encourage and support parents in more fully participating in the education of their children;
    5. Ensure that information related to school and parent programs, meetings, and other activities is sent to the parents of participating children in a format and, to the extent practicable, in a language the parents can understand; and
    6. Provide such other reasonable support for parental involvement activities under this section as parents may request.

Dunkerton Community Schools to the extent practicable, will provide opportunities for the informed participation of parents and family members (including parents and family members who have limited English proficiency, parents and family members with disabilities, and parents and family members of migratory children) by providing information and school reports required under Section 1111 in a format and language the parties can understand. (ESSA Section 11116)

Legal References:  20 U.S.C. §6318

Cross References:  903.2 Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

Approved: August 1996                    
Reviewed: February 2017, May 2020, September 2024
Revised: May 2009