The Fairfield Community School District offers career and technical programs in the following areas of study: Industrial Education, Family Consumer Science, Vocational Agriculture and Business Education.

It is the policy of the Fairfield Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact Chuck Benge, 403 S. 20^th St, Fairfield, (641) 472-2655 or email at chuck.benge@fairfieldsfuture.org.

Approved: Sep 15, 2014, February 21, 2022
Reviewed: Aug 18, 2014, January 24, 2022
Revised: Aug 18, 2014, January 24, 2022

It is the policy of the Fairfield Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact Equity Coordinator Chuck Benge, 403 S. 20^th St., Fairfield, (641) 472-2655 or email: chuck.benge@fairfieldsfuture.org.

Approved:  February 21, 2022
Reviewed:  January 24, 2022   
Revised:  January 24, 2022 

Name of Individual Alleging Discrimination or Non-Compliance

Name                                                                                            

Grievance Date                                                     

State the nature of the complaint and the remedy requested.

Indicate Principal's or Supervisor's response or action to above complaint.

Signature of Principal or Supervisor                                                             

The Fairfield Community School District does not discriminate in its educational programs and activities on the basis of a student's disability.  It has been determined that your child has a qualifying disability for which accommodations may need to be made to meet his or her individual needs as adequately as the needs of other students.  As a parent, you have the right to the following:

• participation of your child in school district programs and activities, including extracurricular programs and activities, to the maximum extent appropriate, free of discrimination based upon the student's disability and at the same level as students without disabilities;

• receipt of free educational services to the extent they are provided students without disabilities:

• receipt of information about your child and your child's educational programs and activities in your native language;

• notice of identification of your child as having a qualifying disability for which accommodations may need to be made and notice prior to evaluation and placement of your child and right to periodically request a re-evaluation of your child;

• inspect and review your child's educational records including a right to copy those records for a reasonable fee; you also have a right to ask the school district to amend your child's educational records if you feel the information in the records is misleading or inaccurate; should the school district refuse to amend the records, you have a right to a hearing and to place an explanatory letter in your child's file explaining why you feel the records are misleading or inaccurate;

• hearing before an impartial hearing officer if you disagree with your child's evaluation or placement; you have a right to counsel at the hearing and have the decision of the impartial hearing officer reviewed.

Inquiries concerning the school district's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), § 504 or Iowa Code § 280.3 should be directed to:

          Director of Curriculum
          Fairfield Community School District
          A.C.T. Center
          403 South 20^th Street
          Fairfield, Iowa  52556-4243
         (Telephone No. 641-472-2655)

who has been designated by the school district to coordinate the school district's efforts to comply with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, the ADA, § 504 and Iowa Code 280.3.           

Approved:                   
Reviewed: Aug 25, 2014                      
Revised: Aug 25, 2014

Students, parents of students, employees, and applicants for employment in the school district will have the right to file a formal complaint alleging discrimination under federal or state regulations requiring non-discrimination in programs and employment.

Level One - Principal, Immediate Supervisor or
Personnel Contact Person
(Informal and Optional - may be bypassed by the grievant)

Employees with a complaint of discrimination based upon their gender, race, national origin, creed, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability are encouraged to first discuss it with their immediate supervisor, with the objective of resolving the matter informally.  An applicant for employment with a complaint of discrimination based upon their gender, race, national origin, creed, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability are encouraged to first discuss it with the personnel contact person.  This paragraph is for employees and “marital status” isn’t a protected class for employees.

A student, or a parent of a student, with a complaint of discrimination based upon their gender, race, national origin, creed, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability are encouraged to discuss it with the instructor, counselor, supervisor, building administrator, program administrator or personnel contact person directly involved.

Level Two - Compliance Officer

If the grievance is not resolved at Level One and the grievant wishes to pursue the grievance, the grievant may formalize it by filing a complaint in writing on a Grievance Filing Form, which may be obtained from the Compliance Officer.  The complaint will state the nature of the grievance and the remedy requested.  The filing of the formal, written complaint at Level Two must be within 15 working days from the date of the event giving rise to the grievance, or from the date the grievant could reasonably become aware of such occurrence.  The grievant may request that a meeting concerning the complaint be held with the Compliance Officer.  A minor student may be accompanied at that meeting by a parent or guardian.  The Compliance Officer will investigate the complaint and attempt to resolve it.  A written report from the Compliance Officer regarding action taken will be sent to the involved parties within a reasonable time after receipt of the complaint.

Level Three - Superintendent/Administrator

If the complaint is not resolved at Level Two, the grievant may appeal it to Level Three by presenting a written appeal to the superintendent within five working days after the grievant receives the report from the Compliance Officer, the grievant may request a meeting with the superintendent.  The superintendent may request a meeting with the grievant to discuss the appeal.  A decision will be rendered by the superintendent within a reasonable time after the receipt of the written appeal.  If, in cases of disability grievances at the elementary and secondary level, the issue is not resolved through the grievance process, the parents have a right to an impartial hearing to resolve the issue.

This procedure in no way denies the right of the grievant to file formal complaints with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights or Office of Special Education Programs, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, or the Iowa Department of Education for mediation or rectification of civil rights grievances, or to seek private counsel for complaints alleging discrimination.

Level Four - Appeal to Board

If the grievant is not satisfied with the superintendent's decision, the grievant can file an appeal with the board within five working days of the decision.  It is within the discretion of the board to determine whether it will hear the appeal.

The Compliance Officer is:

Name                             Curriculum Director

Office Address               403 South 20^th Street, Fairfield, IA  52556-4243                                                                         

Phone Number               641-472-2655

Office Hours                  8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Approved: Sep 15, 2014
Reviewed: Aug 18, 2014
Revised: Aug 18, 2014

Nature of discrimination, harassment, or bullying alleged (check all that apply):

P * Sexual Harassment follows Title IX forms, please see website.

In the space below, please describe what happened and why you believe that you or someone else has been discriminated against, harassed, or bullied. Please be as specific as possible and attach additional pages if necessary.

_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

Signature: _____________________________________            Date:  __________________________

Nature of discrimination, harassment, or bullying alleged (check all that apply):

Description of incident witnessed: _________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Additional information: _________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

Signature: _____________________________________            Date:  __________________________

Individuals who feel that they have been harassed should:

        ·    Communicate to the harasser that the individual expects the behavior to stop, if the individual is comfortable doing so.  If the individual wants assistance communicating with the harasser, the individual should ask a teacher, counselor or principal to help.

        ·    If the harassment does not stop, or the individual does not feel comfortable confronting the harasser, the individual should:

              --   tell a teacher, counselor or principal; and

              --   write down exactly what happened, keep a copy and give another copy to the teacher, counselor or principal including;

• • what, when and where it happened;
  • who was involved;
  • exactly what was said or what the harasser did;
  • witnesses to the harassment;
  • what the student said or did, either at the time or later;
  • how the student felt; and
  • how the harasser responded.

COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

An individual who believes that the individual has been harassed or bullied will notify the building principal, the designated investigator.  The alternate investigator is the superintendent.  The investigator may request that the individual complete the Harassment/Bullying Complaint form and turn over evidence of the harassment, including, but not limited to, letters, tapes, or pictures.  The complainant shall be given a copy of the completed complaint form.   Information received during the investigation is kept confidential to the extent possible.

The investigator, with the approval of the principal, or the principal has the authority to initiate an investigation in the absence of a written complaint.

INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE

The investigator will reasonably and promptly commence the investigation upon receipt of the complaint.  The investigator will interview the complainant and the alleged harasser.  The alleged harasser may file a written statement in response to the complaint.  The investigator may also interview witnesses as deemed appropriate.

Upon completion of the investigation, the investigator will make written findings and conclusions as to each allegation of harassment and report the findings and conclusions to the principal.  The investigator will provide a copy of the findings of the investigation to the principal. 

RESOLUTION OF THE COMPLAINT

Following receipt of the investigator’s report, the principal may investigate further, if deemed necessary, and make a determination of any appropriate additional steps which may include discipline.

Prior to the determination of the appropriate remedial action, the principal may, at the principal’s discretion, interview the complainant and the alleged harasser.  The principal will file a written report closing the case and documenting any disciplinary action taken or any other action taken in response to the complaint.  The complainant, the alleged harasser and the investigator will receive notice as to the conclusion of the investigation.  The principal will maintain a log of information necessary to comply with Iowa Department of Education reporting procedures.

POINTS TO REMEMBER IN THE INVESTIGATION

•     Evidence uncovered in the investigation is confidential.
•     Complaints must be taken seriously and investigated.
•     No retaliation will be taken against individuals involved in the investigation process.
•     Retaliators will be disciplined up to and including suspension and expulsion.

CONFLICTS

If the investigator is a witness to the incident, the alternate investigator will investigate.

The Fairfield Community School District school board is authorized by and derives its organization from Iowa law.  The board will consist of 7 board members.  Board members are elected at-large.

The board is organized for the purpose of setting policy and providing general direction for the school district.  The school board will hold its organizational meeting at the first regular meeting following the canvass of votes.  The retiring board will transfer materials, including the board policy manual, and responsibility to the new board.

The organizational meeting allows the outgoing board to approve minutes of its previous meetings, complete unfinished business and review the school election results.  The retiring board will adjourn and the new board will then begin.  The board secretary will administer the oath of office to the newly-elected board members.  The board secretary will preside while the new board elects the president and vice president of the new board.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 274.2; 275.23A; 277.23, .28, .31; 279.1, .5, .7, .8 , .33 (2013).
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:  202    Board of Directors Members
                                      206.1 President
                                      206.2 Vice President
                                      210    Board of Directors' Meeting

Approved:  Sept. 14, 1987, Nov. 16, 2020
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, Sep. 14, 2009, July 11, 2011, Oct. 19, 2020      
Revised:  Sept. 21, 1992, Dec. 16, 1996, Oct. 12, 2009, September 18, 2017, Oct. 19, 2020      

The board of the Fairfield Community School District, acting on behalf of the school district, shall have jurisdiction over school matters within the territory of the school district.

The board is empowered to make policy for its own governance, for employees, for students and for school district facilities.  The board is also empowered to enforce its policies.  The board may, through its quasi-judicial power, conduct hearings and rule on issues and disputes confronting the school district.

The board has these powers and all other powers expressly granted to it in federal and state law as well as the powers that can be reasonably implied from the express powers.

Legal Reference:  Board of Directors of Ind. School Dist. of Waterloo v. Green, 259 Iowa Op. Att'y Gen. 66. 1260, 147 N.W.2d 854 (1967).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 28E; 274.1-.2; 279.8 (2011).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.1(2).
                                      1990 Op. Att’y Gen.  66

Cross Reference:  209 Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011      
Revised:  Dec. 16, 1996

The board is authorized to govern the school district which it oversees.  As the governing board of the school district, the board has three duties to perform:  legislative duty, executive duty and evaluative duty.

As a representative of the citizens of the school district community, the board is responsible for legislating policy for the school district.  As a policy making body, the board has jurisdiction to enact policy with the force and effect of law for the management and operation of the school district.

It is the responsibility of the board, under the board's executive duty, to select its chief executive officer, the superintendent, to operate the school district on the board's behalf.  The board delegates to the superintendent its authority to carry out board policy, to formulate and carry out rules and regulations and to handle the administrative details in a manner which supports and is consistent with board policy.

The board has a responsibility to review the education program's performance under its evaluative duty.  The board regularly reviews the education program and ancillary services.  The review includes a careful study and examination of the facts, conditions and circumstances surrounding the amount of funds received or expended and the education program's ability to achieve the board's educational philosophy for the school district.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 279.1, .8, .20; 280.12 (2013).
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:  101      Educational Philosophy of the School District
                                      103      Educational and Operational Planning
                                      209      Board of Directors' Management Procedures
                                      600      Goals and Objectives of the Educational Program

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Nov. 16, 2020
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011, Oct. 19, 2020     
Revised:  Dec. 16, 1996, September 18, 2017 

Serving on the board of directors is an honor and privilege.  Its rewards are respect from the community, students, and employees and the satisfaction from knowing each board member contributed to the success of the children in the school district community.  Only those who are willing to put forth the effort to care and to make a difference should consider running for a position on the board.

Individuals who are willing to serve on the board believe public education is important, support the democratic process, willingly devote time and energy to board work, respect educators, have the ability to examine the facts and make a decision.  The board believes an individual considering a position on the school board should possess these characteristics.

Citizens wanting to run for a position on the board must be a citizen of the school district, an eligible elector of the district and free from a financial conflict of interest with the position.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 63; 68B; 277.4, .27; 279.7A (2013).

Cross Reference:  201      Board of Directors' Elections
                                      202.4   Vacancies
                                      203      Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Nov. 16, 2020
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011, Oct. 19, 2020      
Revised:  Dec. 16, 1996, September 18, 2017, Oct. 19, 2020      

Board members are officials of the state.  As a public official, each board member must pledge to uphold the Iowa and the United States Constitution and carry out the responsibilities of the office to the best of the board member's ability.

Each newly-elected board member will take the oath of office prior to any action taken as a school official.  The oath of office is taken by each new board member elected at the school election at or before the organizational meeting of the board.  In the event of an appointment or special election to fill a vacancy, the new board member will take the oath of office within ten days of the appointment or election.

Board members elected to offices of the board will also take the same oath of office but replacing the office of board member with the title of the office to which they were elected.

The oath of office is administered by the board secretary and does not need to be given at a board meeting.  In the event the board secretary is absent, the oath is administered by another board member.

                      "Do you solemnly swear that you will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Iowa, and that you will faithfully and impartially to the best of your ability discharge the duties of the office of

                      _______________ (naming the office) in the Fairfield Community School District as now and hereafter required by law?"

NOTE:  Board members elected at the regular election do not need to take the oath of office within 10 days.  However, those elected at a special election or appointed to fill a vacancy must take the oath of office within 10 days.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 277.28; 279.1, .6 (2013).

Cross Reference:  200.1 Organization of the Board of Directors
                                      201    Board of Directors' Elections
                                      202    Board of Directors Members
                                      204    Code of Ethics
                                      206    Board of Directors' Officers

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Nov. 16, 2020 
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, Sep. 14, 2009, July 11, 2011, Oct. 19, 2020     
Revised:  Dec. 16, 1996, Oct. 12, 2009, September 18, 2017 

Board members elected for a full term at a regularly scheduled school election in September, of odd-numbered years, serve for four years.  Board members appointed to fill a vacant position will serve until a successor is elected and qualified at the next regular school election, unless there is an intervening special election for the school district, in which event a successor shall be elected at the intervening special election.  A board member elected to fill a vacancy will serve out the unexpired term.

Being a board member is a unique opportunity for a citizen to participate on a governing board of the school district.  Eligible board members are encouraged to consider running for more than one term.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 69.12; 274.7; 279.6; 279.7

Cross Reference:  201       Board of Directors' Elections
                                        202       Board of Directors Members
                                        202.4    Vacancies

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985 
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, Sep. 14, 2009, July 11, 2011      
Revised:  Dec. 16, 1996, Oct. 12, 2009, September 18, 2017 , September 18, 2017 

A vacancy occurs as provided by law, which includes but it not limited to when a board member dies, resigns or leaves office, or fails to reside in the school district or director district.

If a vacancy occurs prior to the expiration of a term of office, the vacancy will be filled by board appointment within 30 days of the vacancy.  The board shall publish notice stating that the board intends to fill the vacancy by appointment, but the electors of the school district have the right to file a petition requiring the vacancy be filled by a special election.

A person appointed to fill a vacancy shall hold office until a successor is elected and qualified at the next regular school election, unless there is an intervening special election for the school district, in which event a successor shall be elected at the intervening special election.

If the board is unable to fill a vacancy by appointment within 30 days after the vacancy occurs or if a valid petition is submitted, the board secretary will call a special election to be held no sooner than 60 days and not later than 70 days after the vacancy occurred.  A board member elected at the special election will serve the remaining portion of the unexpired term.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21.6; 69; 277.29; 279
                                        Good v. Crouch, 397 N.W.2d 757 (Iowa 1986).
                                        Board of Directors of Grimes Independent School Dist. v. County Board of Public Instruction of Polk Co., 257 Iowa 106, 131 N.W.2d 802 (1965).
                                        Board of Directors of Menlo Consol. School Dist. v. Blakesburg, 240 Iowa 910, 36 N.W.2d 751 (1949).
                                        1944 Op. Att'y Gen. 39.

Cross Reference:  201       Board of Directors' Elections
                                        202       Board of Directors Members
                                        202.3    Term of Office

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, Sep. 14, 2009, July 11, 2011      
Revised:  Dec. 16, 1996, Oct. 12, 2009, September 18, 2017 

It is the responsibility of the board president to lead a well-organized board in an efficient and effective manner.  The board president will set the tone of the board meetings and, as the representative of the consensus of the board, speak on behalf of the board to the public.

The president of the board is elected by a majority vote at the organizational meeting in odd-numbered years, or at the annual meeting in even-numbered years, to serve a one-year term of office.

The president, in addition to presiding at the board meetings, will take an active role in board decisions by discussing and voting on each motion before the board in the same manner as other board members.  Before making or seconding a motion, the board president will turn over control of the meeting to either the vice-president or other board member.

The board president has the authority to call special meetings of the board.  Prior to board meetings, the board president will consult with the superintendent on the development of the agenda for the meeting.

The board president, as the chief officer of the school district, will sign employment contracts and sign other contracts and school district warrants approved by the board and appear on behalf of the school corporation in causes of action involving the school district.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.1-.2; 291.1 (2013).

Cross Reference:  200.1    Organization of the Board of Directors
                                        202.2    Oath of Office
                                        206.2    Vice-President

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Nov. 16, 2020 
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep. 14, 2009, June 14, 2010, July 11, 2011, Oct. 19, 2020                 
Revised:  Dec. 16 1996, Oct. 12, 2009, July 12, 2010, September 18, 2017 

If the board president is unable or unwilling to carry out the duties required, it is the responsibility of the vice president of the board to carry out the duties of the president.  If the president is unable or unwilling to complete the term of office, the vice president will serve as president for the balance of the president's term of office, and a new vice president will be elected.

The vice president of the board is elected by a majority vote at the organizational meeting, in odd-numbered years, or at the annual meeting, in even-numbered years, to serve a one-year term of office.

The vice president will accept control of the meeting from the president when the president wishes to make or second a motion.  The vice president will take an active role in board decisions by discussing and voting on matters before the board in the same manner as other board members.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.5 (2013).

Cross Reference:  200.1   Organization of the Board of Directors
                                      202.2   Oath of Office
                                      206.1   President

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Nov. 16, 2020 
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, Sep. 14, 2009, July 12, 2010, July 11, 2011, Oct. 19, 2020                 
Revised:  Dec. 16 1996, Oct. 12, 2009, Aug. 9, 2010, September 18, 2017 

A board secretary-treasurer may be appointed from employees, other than a position requiring a teaching certificate, or from the public.  To finalize the appointment, the board secretary-treasurer shall take the oath of office during the meeting at which the individual was appointed or no later than ten days thereafter.

It will be the responsibility of the board secretary-treasurer, as custodian of school district records, to preserve and maintain the records and documents pertaining to the business of the board; to keep complete minutes of special and regular board meetings, including closed sessions; to keep a record of the results of regular and special elections; to keep an accurate account of school funds; to sign warrants drawn on the school funds after board approval; and collect data on truant students.  The board secretary-treasurer shall also be responsible for filing the required reports with the Iowa Department of Education.

It will be the responsibility of the board secretary-treasurer to oversee the investment portfolio, to receive funds of the school district, to pay out the funds for expenses approved by the board, to maintain accurate accounting records for each fund, to report monthly regarding the investment portfolio and the status of each fund and to file required reports with the appropriate state agencies and other entities.  It will also be the responsibility of the board secretary-treasurer to coordinate the financial records, the financial reports, the cash flow needs and the investment portfolio of the school district.

In the event the board secretary-treasurer is unable to fulfill the responsibilities set out by the board and the law, the superintendent will assume those duties until the board secretary-treasurer is able to resume the responsibility or a new board secretary-treasurer is appointed.

The board secretary-treasurer will give bond in an amount set by the board.  The cost of the bond will be paid by the school district.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 12B.10; 12C; 64; 279.3, .5, .7, .31-.33, .35; 291.2-.4, .6-.12,  .14; 299.10, (2013).
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.3(1).
                                       1978 Op. Att'y Gen. 328.

Cross Reference:  202.2     Oath of Office
                                      210.1     Annual Meeting
                                      215        Board of Directors' Records
                                      501.10   Truancy - Unexcused Absences
                                      704.3     Investments
                                      707        Fiscal Reports
                                      708        Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985    
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011      
Revised:  Sep. 21, 1992, Dec.16, 1996, Jan. 12, 2004, September 18,2017          

The board has jurisdiction to legislate policy for the school district with the force and effect of law.  Board policy provides the general direction as to what the board wishes to accomplish while allowing the superintendent to implement board policy.

The written policy statements contained in this manual provide guidelines and goals to the citizens, administration, employees and students in the school district community.  The policy statements shall be the basis for the formulation of regulations by the administration.  The board will determine the effectiveness of the policy statements by evaluating periodic reports from the administration.

Policy statements may be proposed by a board member, administrator, employee, student or member of the school district community.  Proposed policy statements or ideas will be submitted to the superintendent's office for possible placement on the board agenda.  It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to bring these proposals to the attention of the board.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 274.1-.2; 279.8 (2013).
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).
                                        1970 Op. Att'y Gen. 287.

Cross Reference:  101      Educational Philosophy of the School District
                                      200.2   Powers of the Board of Directors
                                      200.3   Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
                                      209      Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved:  Dec. 16, 1985    
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011      
Revised:  June 12, 1989, September 18, 2017  

The board will give notice of adoption of new policies by placing the item on the agenda of two regular board meetings.  This notice procedure will be required except for emergency situations.  If the board adopts a policy in an emergency situation, a statement regarding the emergency and the need for immediate adoption of the policy will be included in the minutes.  The board will have complete discretion to determine what constitutes an emergency situation.

The final action taken to adopt the proposed policy will be approved by a simple majority vote of the board at the next regular meeting after the meeting allowing public discussion.  The policy will be effective on the later of the date of passage or the date stated in the motion.

In the case of an emergency, a new or changed policy may be adopted by a majority vote of a quorum of the board.  The emergency policy will expire at the close of the third regular meeting following the emergency action, unless the policy adoption procedure stated above is followed and the policy is reaffirmed.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).
                                        1970 Op. Att'y Gen. 287.

Cross Reference:  200.2    Powers of the Board of Directors
                                        200.3    Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
                                        209       Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved:   Feb. 11, 1985    
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011      
Revised:   June 12, 1989 , September 18, 2017 

A board policy manual is available electronically on the district’s web site.  Anyone desiring to view board policy may access it via the district’s web site.  If a person does not have access to the Internet, they will be provided access at any student attendance center or the administrative office for the purpose of viewing the board policy manual.

Copies of changes in board policy will also be included in or attached to the minutes of the meetings in which the final action was taken to adopt the new or changed policy.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 277.31; 279.8 (2013).
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:  200.3   Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
                                      209      Board of Directors' Management Procedure

Approved:   June 12, 1989 , July 11, 2011   
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011      
Revised:  Dec. 16, 1996 , September 18, 2017 

Generally, the board will follow board policy and enforce it equitably.  The board, and only the board, may, in extreme emergencies of a very unique nature, suspend policy.  It is within the discretion of the board to determine when an extreme emergency of a very unique nature exists.  Reasons for suspension of board policy will be documented in board minutes.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:  200.3   Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
                                      209      Board of Directors' Management Procedure

Approved:   Dec. 16, 1996    
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011      
Revised     September 18, 2017 

When there is no board policy in existence to provide guidance on a matter, the superintendent is authorized to act appropriately under the circumstances surrounding the situation keeping in mind the educational philosophy and financial condition of the school district.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to inform the board of the situation and the action taken and to document the action taken.  If needed, the superintendent will draft a proposed policy for the board to consider.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:  200.3   Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
                                      209      Board of Directors' Management Procedure
                                      302.4   Superintendent Duties
                                      304      Policy Implementation

Approved:  June 12, 1989   
Reviewed:    Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011      
Revised:  September 18, 2017 

The board will, at least once every five years, review board policy.  Once the policy has been reviewed, even if no changes were made, a notation of the date of review is made on the face of the policy statement.

The board will review one-fifth of the policy manual annually according to the following subject areas:

• Board of Directors (Series 200)
• Administration, Employees (Series 300 and 400)
• School District, Education Program (Series 100 and 600)
• Students (Series 500)
• Noninstructional Operations and Business Services, Buildings and Sites, School District-Community Relations (Series 700, 800 and 900)

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board informed as to legal changes at both the federal and state levels.  The superintendent will also be responsible for bringing proposed policy statement revisions to the board's attention.

If a policy is revised because of a legal change over which the board has no control or a change which is minor, the policy may be approved at one meeting at the discretion of the board.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:  200.3   Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
                                     209      Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved:   June 12, 1989
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, Oct. 11, 2010, July 11, 2011      
Revised:   Dec.16, 1996, Oct. 9, 2000, Nov. 8, 2010, September 18, 2017  

Board policy sets the direction for the administration of the education program and school district operations.  Some policies require administrative regulations for implementation.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations to implement the board policies.  The regulations, including handbooks, will be approved by the board prior to their use in the school district.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20 (2013).

Cross Reference:  200.3   Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
                                      209      Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved:   Feb. 11, 1985     
Reviewed:    Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011      
Revised:   Dec. 16, 1996, September 18, 2017  

Each year after August 31 and prior to the organizational meeting of the board in odd-numbered years, the board will hold its annual meeting.

At the annual meeting, the board will examine the financial books and settle the secretary's and treasurer's statements for the fiscal year ending the preceding June 30.  As part of the annual reports, the treasurer will present affidavits from depository banks.  The board may also appoint the board's legal counsel at the annual meeting.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.1, .3, .33 (2013).

Cross Reference:  206.3    Secretary
                                        206.4    Treasurer
                                        701.1    Depository of Funds
                                        707       Fiscal Reports

Approved: Feb. 11, 1985, Nov 21, 2016, Nov. 16, 2020    
Reviewed: Aug. 24, 2005, July 12, 2010, July 11, 2011, Sept. 26, 2016, Oct. 19, 2020            
Revised: Sep. 21, 1992, Dec. 16, 1996, Feb. 10, 2003, Dec. 15, 2003, Aug. 9, 2010, Sept. 26, 2016                        \

The regular meeting time and date will be set by the board at the organizational meeting in odd-numbered years, or at the annual meeting in even-numbered years. 

The board will adhere to this meeting date and time unless the board requires additional meetings or, due to circumstances beyond the board's control, the meeting cannot be held on the regular meeting date, and the meeting will be re-scheduled in accordance with law and policy.  Public notice of the meetings will be given.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21.3, .4; 279.1

Cross Reference:  200.1     Organization of the Board of Directors
                                       210         Board of Directors' Meetings

Approved:   Feb. 11, 1985     
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 12, 2010, July 11, 2011       
Revised:   Sept. 21, 1992 & Dec. 16, 1996, Aug. 9, 2010 , September 18, 2017 

It may be necessary for the board to conduct a special meeting in addition to the regularly scheduled board meeting.  Special meetings may be called by the president of the board or by the board secretary at the request of a majority of the board.  Should a special meeting be called, public notice will be given.

If the special meeting called is an emergency meeting and the board cannot give public notice in its usual manner, the board will give public notice of the meeting as soon as practical and possible in light of the situation.  Emergency meetings will only be held when an issue cannot wait twenty-four hours necessary for a special meeting.  The reason for the emergency meeting and why notice in its usual manner could not be given will be stated in the minutes.

Only the purpose or issue for which the special meeting was called may be discussed and decided in the special meeting.  The board will strictly adhere to the agenda for the special meeting and action on other issues will be reserved for the next regular or special board meeting.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21.3, .4; 279.2 (2013).
                                        1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 148.

Cross Reference:  200.1    Organization of the Board of Directors
                                        210       Board of Directors' Meetings

Approved:   Feb. 11, 1985     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011       
Revised:   Dec. 16, 1996, September 18, 2017 

The board, as a decision making body, is confronted with a continuing flow of problems, issues and needs which require action.  While the board is determined to expedite its business, it is also mindful of the importance of planning, brainstorming and thoughtful discussion without action.  Therefore, the board may schedule work sessions and retreats in order to provide its members and the administration with such opportunities.  The board has the authority to hire an outside facilitator to assist them in work sessions.

Topics for discussion and study will be announced publicly, and work sessions and retreats will be conducted in open session.  However, no board action will take place at the work session.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8 (2013).
                                        1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 162.
                                        1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 167.
                                        1976 Op. Att'y Gen. 384, 514, 765.
                                        1972 Op. Att'y Gen. 158.
                                        1970 Op. Att'y Gen. 287.

Cross Reference:  210      Board of Directors' Meetings
                                      211      Open Meetings

Approved:   Oct. 11, 1993     
Reviewed:    Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011       
Revised:  September 18, 2017 

Public notice will be given for meetings and work sessions held by the board.  Public notice shall indicate the time, place, date and tentative agenda of board meetings.  The public notice will be posted on the bulletin board in the central administration office at least 24 hours before it is scheduled.

A copy of the public notice will be provided to those who have filed a request for notice with the secretary.  These requests for notice must be in writing.  A copy of the public notice will also be accessible to employees and students.

In the case of special meetings, public notice will be given in the same manner as for a regular meeting unless it is an emergency meeting.  In that case, public notice of the meeting will be given as soon as practical and possible in light of the situation.  The media and others who have requested notice will be notified of the emergency meeting.  Attendance at a special meeting or emergency meeting by the media or board members will constitute a waiver of notice.

It is the responsibility of the board secretary to give public notice of board meetings and work sessions.

.

Legal Reference:  Dobrovolny v. Reinhardt, 173 N.W.2d 837 (Iowa 1970).
                                        Iowa Code §§ 21.2-.4; 279.1, .2 (2013).
                                        1952 Op. Att'y Gen. 133.

Cross Reference:  210      Board of Directors' Meetings
                                      210.8   Board of Directors' Meeting Agenda

Approved:   Feb. 11, 1985     
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011       
Revised:   Dec. 16, 1996, September 18, 2017  

Action by the board regarding the affairs of the school district may be taken only when a quorum, a majority of the board members, is in attendance at the board meeting.

While board members are encouraged to attend board meetings, four (4) members shall constitute a quorum and are a sufficient number to transact business of the school corporation.  The adjournment of a meeting may be executed without a quorum.

An affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast is sufficient to pass a motion or take action unless law or board policy requires a vote of a greater number.

It is the responsibility of each board member to attend board meetings.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21.5(1); 279.4 (2013).

Cross Reference:  210 Board of Directors' Meetings

Approved:   Feb. 11, 1985     
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011     
Revised:   Dec. 16, 1996, September 18, 2017 

An orderly board meeting allows the board members to participate in the discussion and decision process on an issue confronting the school district.  Rules of order for board meetings allow school district business and the relative information concerning the business to be brought to the attention of the board.  They also allow the board to discuss, act upon and make a clear record of school district business in a regular, ordered, reasonable and consistent manner.

The board will follow Robert's Rule of Order, Revised, latest edition as modified by this policy and subsequent rule.

The purpose of modified rules adopted by the board are:

·      To establish guidelines by which the business of the governing board can be conducted in a regular and internally consistent manner;

·      To organize the meetings so all necessary matters can be brought to the board and decisions of the board can be made in an orderly and reasonable manner;

·      To ensure members of the board, concentrating on the substantive issues at hand, have the necessary information to make decisions, and to ensure adequate discussion of decisions to be made; and,

·      To ensure meetings and actions of the board are conducted so as to be informative to the staff and the public, and to produce a clear record of actions taken and decisions made.

It is the responsibility of each board member to follow the rules of order stated in this policy at each meeting, and it is the responsibility of the presiding officer to conduct the board meeting within these rules.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21.2, .7; 279.8 (2013).

Cross Reference:  210       Board of Directors' Meetings
                                        210.8    Board Meeting Agenda

Approved:   Feb. 11, 1985     
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, Dec. 13, 2010, July 11, 2011         
Revised:  September 18, 2017 

The tentative agenda for each board meeting will state the topics for discussion and action at the board meeting.  The agenda is part of the public notice of the board meeting and will be posted and distributed.

Persons requesting to place an item on the agenda must make a request to the superintendent prior to the drafting of the tentative agenda.  The person making the request must state the person's name, address, purpose of the presentation, action desired and pertinent background information.  Requests from the public may be added to the tentative agenda at the discretion of the superintendent after consultation with the board president.  Requests received after the deadline may only be added to the agenda for good cause.

The tentative agenda and supporting documents will be sent to the board members sufficiently in advance of the meeting to allow adequate time for study and review.  These documents are the private property of the board member.  Persons wishing to view the tentative agenda and supporting documents may do so at the central administration office.

The board will take action only on the items listed on the tentative agenda posted with the public notice.  Items added to the agenda may be discussed or taken under advisement by the board.  If an added item is acted upon, the minutes of the board meeting will state the reason justifying the immediate action.

It is the responsibility of the board president and superintendent to develop the agenda for each board meeting.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8 (2013).
                                        1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 269.

Cross Reference:  210      Board of Directors' Meetings
                                      211      Open Meetings
                                      213      Public Participation in Board Meetings
                                      215      Board of Directors' Records
                                      402.5   Public Complaints About Employees
                                      502.4   Student Complaints and Grievances

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985     
Reviewed:    Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011           
Revised:  September 18, 2017 

Very often the board must consider agenda items which are noncontroversial or similar in content.  Such agenda items might include ministerial tasks such as, but not limited to, the approval of the agenda, approval of previous minutes, approval of bills, approval of reports, etc.  These items might also include similar groups of decisions such as, but not limited to, approval of staff contracts, approval of maintenance details for the school buildings and grounds, open enrollment requests or approval of various schedules.

In order for a more efficient administration of board meetings, the board may elect to use a consent agenda for the passage of noncontroversial items or items of a similar nature.

The superintendent in consultation with the board president and board secretary will place items on the consent agenda.  By using a consent agenda, the board has consented to the consideration of certain items as a group under one resolution.  Items may be removed from the consent agenda at the request of a board member.

Nothing in this policy is to be construed as an attempt to avoid full compliance with laws dealing with open meetings or public notice of the agenda and meeting.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8 (2013).

Cross Reference:  210       Board of Directors' Meetings         

Approved                                                  
Reviewed   July 11, 2011                          
Revised   September 18, 2017 

If you wish to speak to the Fairfield Community Board of Education during the meeting tonight, please check the appropriate response, sign your name, and present this request to the Superintendent or Board President prior to the beginning of the meeting. Thank you.

FAIRFIELD COMMUNITY BOARD OF EDUCATION

_____           I wish to speak to the Board of Education about the following agenda item. (list topic)

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

_____           I wish to speak to the Board of Education during the “Opportunity for Persons no on the Agenda.” (You may present comments, suggestions, or concerns you may have on items not listed on the agenda.)

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

I understand that I will be limited to five minutes for my presentation unless granted additional time by the Board President.

                                                                                      NAME ___________________________________

                                                                                 ADDRESS___________________________________

Approved: Nov 17, 2014
Reviewed: Sep 22, 2014
Revised: Sep 22, 2014, September 18, 2017 

The board recognizes that concerns regarding the operation of the school district will arise.  The board further believes that constructive criticism can assist in improving the quality of the education program and in meeting individual student needs more effectively.  The board also places trust in its employees and desires to support their actions in a manner which frees them from unnecessary or unwarranted criticism and complaints.

Procedures for dealing with complaints concerning programs or practices will be governed by the following principles:

•   where action/investigation is desired by the complainant, or where it seems appropriate, the matter will be handled as near the source as possible at the lowest level of organization possible;
•   complaints will both be investigated and, if possible, resolved expeditiously;
•   complaints will be dealt with courteously and in a constructive manner; and,
•   individuals directly affected by the complaint will have an opportunity to respond.

Specific procedures for handling complaints may be established in policies.  The board, consistent with its board policy-making role, will deal with complaints concerning specific schools, programs or procedures only after the usual channels have been exhausted.  Complaints regarding employees or complaints by students should follow the more specific policies on those issues.

When a complaint requiring attention is received by the board or a board member it will be referred to the superintendent.  After all of the channels have been exhausted, the complainant may appeal to the board by requesting a place on the board agenda or during the public audience portion of the board meeting.  If the complainant appeals to the board, the appeal will be in writing, will be signed, and will explain the process followed by the complainant prior to the appeal to the board. It is within the board’s discretion to determine whether to hear the complaint.

On behalf of fellow Board members, at this time I would like to invite any member of the audience to step to the microphone with comments about items of interest or concern that do not appear on the agenda this evening. Please begin by stating your name and address. It would be appreciated if you would limit your comments to a maximum of 5 minutes so that we can keep the meeting moving in a timely fashion and allow others an opportunity to speak. We ask that you remember that Iowa law prohibits us from discussing specific employees or their job performance. If you have thoughts to share about items that are included as topics for tonight’s meeting, we would invite those comments at this time.

Cross Reference:  502.4   Student Complaints and Grievances
                                      213      Public Participation in Board Meetings
                                      402.5   Public Complaints About Employees
                                      210.8   Board Meeting Agenda

Approved:  Nov 17, 2014
Reviewed:    Sep 22, 2014      
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014, September 18, 2017 

Participation in board member associations is beneficial to the board.  The board shall maintain an active membership in the Iowa Association of School Boards and in organizations the board determines will be of benefit to the board and the school district.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.38 (2013).

Cross Reference:  216.2 Board of Directors' Member Development and Training

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985     
Reviewed:   Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011            
Revised:  September 18, 2017 

The board may participate in conferences sponsored by educational associations and agencies in addition to its own in-service programs and work sessions.

The board will work closely with the Iowa Association of School Boards' Academy of Board Learning Experiences and encourage the board members to participate in conferences to achieve the Better Boardsmanship Award.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .38 (2013).

Cross Reference:  216.1 Association Membership

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985     
Reviewed:    Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011           
Revised:    Dec. 16, 1996, September 18, 2017  

As an elected public official, the board member is a public servant who serves without compensation.  Board members will be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.

Prior to reimbursement of actual and necessary expenses, the board member must submit a detailed receipt indicating the date, purpose and nature of the expense for each claim item.  Failure to provide a detailed receipt will make the expense non-reimbursable.  Personal expenses will be reimbursed by the board member to the school district no later than ten working days following the date of the expense.  In exceptional circumstances, the board may allow a claim without proper receipt.  Written documentation explaining the exceptional circumstances will be maintained as part of the school district's record of the claim.

It is the responsibility of the board secretary to compile the expenses of board members and bring them to the board for audit and approval in the same manner as other claims of the school district.  It is the responsibility of the board to determine through the audit and approval process of the board whether the expenses incurred by a board member are actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 68B; 277.27; 279.7A, .8, .32 (2013).

Cross Reference:  203       Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest
                                        401.7    Employee Travel Compensation
                                        401.10  Credit Cards

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, July 11, 2011           
Revised:  Dec. 16, 1996

The board and the administrators shall work together in making decisions and setting goals for the school district.  This effort is designed to obtain, share, and use information to solve problems, make decisions, and formulate school district policies and regulations.

It shall be the responsibility of administrators to fully participate in the management of the school district by investigating, analyzing, and expressing their views on issues.  Those board members or administrators with special expertise or knowledge of an issue may be called upon to provide information.  Each board member and administrator shall support the decisions reached on the issues confronting the school district.

The board shall be responsible for making the final decision in policy matters pertaining to the school district.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop guidelines for cooperative decision-making.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (1995).

Cross Reference:  301 Administrative Structure

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Jan 16, 2012     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jan 16, 2012   
Revised:  Feb. 10, 1997, Dec 19, 2011

The board considers all those who have a role in the recruitment or release of employees to be part of the administrative team.  The administrative team will be headed by the superintendent.  The superintendent will convene meetings to discuss school district policies, administrative procedures and other business brought to the superintendent's attention.

The administrative team will meet with the board upon the board's request or superintendent's recommendation to review overall operations of the school district and conditions affecting the administrative team.  The administrative team will have no relationship to the formal negotiating unit.  In the event a member or members of the administrative team are unable to resolve a problem, a committee of one board member, one administrative team member, and the superintendent will investigate the circumstances and make a recommendation.  If the recommendation does not settle the matter, the board and the administrative team will meet to resolve the matter.  The board may seek the advice of outside management consultants to assist in resolving the matter.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (1995).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(3).

Cross Reference:  301 Administrative Structure

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Jan 16, 2012, November 26, 2018
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jan 16, 2012, Oct. 15, 2018
Revised:  Feb. 10, 1997, Dec 19, 2011, Oct. 15, 2018

It is the superintendent’s responsibility to organize, reorganize and arrange the administrative and supervisory staff of the district in a fashion which, in his/her judgment, best serves the interests of the district based upon board approval.

The organizational structure of the district shall be illustrated by a chart.  The chart represents the direction of authority and responsibility and shall be regarded as visual representation of contracted authority and responsibility for each line and staff position.

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Jan 16, 2012    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jan 16, 2012, Oct 26, 2015
Revised:                            

The board will employ a superintendent to serve as the chief executive officer of the board, to conduct the daily operations of the school district, and to implement board policy with the power and duties prescribed by the board and the law.

The board will consider applicants who meet or exceed the standards set by the Iowa Department of Education and the qualifications established in the job description for the superintendent position.  In employing a superintendent, the board will consider the qualifications, credentials and records of the applicants without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.  In keeping with the law, however, the board will consider the veteran status of the applicants.  The board will look closely at the training, experience, skill and demonstrated competence of qualified applicants in making its final decision.

In choosing a superintendent, the board will also consider the school district's educational philosophy, financial situation, organizational structure, education programs, and other factors deemed relevant by the board.

The board may contract for assistance in the search for a superintendent.

Legal Reference:  29 U.S.C. §§ 621-634 (2012).
                                       42 U.S.C. §§ 2000e et seq. (2012).
                                       Iowa Code §§ 21.5(1)(i); 35C; 216; 279.8, .20 (2013)..
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.4(4).
                                       1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 367.

Cross Reference:  200.2 Powers of the Board of Directors
                                      200.3 Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
                                      301    Administrative Structure
                                      302    Superintendent

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Jan 16, 2012, November 26, 2018
Reviewed:  July 20, 2007, Nov. 8, 2010, Jan 16, 2012, Oct. 15, 2018
Revised:  Aug. 13, 2007, Oct. 15, 2018

The length of the contract for employment between the superintendent and the board shall be determined by the board.  The contract will begin on July 1 and end on June 30.  The contract will state the terms of employment.

The first three years of employment will be considered a probationary period.  The board may waive this period or the probationary period may be extended for an additional year upon the consent of the superintendent.  In the event of termination of a probationary or non-probationary contract, the board will afford the superintendent appropriate due process, including notice by May 15.  The superintendent and board may mutually agree to terminate the superintendent's contract at any time.

It will be the responsibility of the board to provide the contract for the position of superintendent.

If the superintendent wishes to resign, to be released from a contract, or to retire, the superintendent must comply with board policies dealing with retirement, release or resignation.

The board may issue a temporary and renewable contract in accordance with the law.

Legal Reference:  Cook v Plainfield Community School District, 301 N.W.2d 771 (Iowa App. 1980).
                                      Board of Education of Fort Madison Community School District v. Youel, 282 N.W.2d 677 (Iowa 1979).
                                      Briggs v Board of Directors of Hinton Community School District, 282 N.W.2d 740 (Iowa 1979).
                                      Luse v. Waco Community School District of Henry Co., 258 Iowa 1087, 141 N.W.2d 607 (1966).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 21.5(1)(i); 279.20, .22-.25 (1995).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.4(4).

Cross Reference:  302 Superintendent

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Jan 16, 2012, November 26, 2018   
Reviewed: Aug. 24, 2005, Jan 16, 2012, Oct. 15, 2018
Revised:  Sep. 21, 1992, Feb. 10, 1997, Dec 19, 2011, Oct. 15, 2018

The board has complete discretion to set the salary of the superintendent.  It shall be the responsibility of the board to set the salary and benefits of the superintendent at a level that will include consideration of, but not be limited to, the economic condition of the school district and the training, experience, skill, and demonstrated competence of the superintendent.  The salary shall be set at the beginning of each contract term.

In addition to the salary and benefits, the superintendent's actual and necessary expenses shall be paid by the school district when the superintendent is performing work-related duties.  It shall be within the discretion of the board to pay dues to professional organizations for the superintendent.

The board may approve the payment of dues and other benefits or compensation over and above the superintendent's contract.  Approval of dues and other benefits or compensation shall be included in the records of the board in accordance with board policy.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20 (2013).
                                      1984 Op. Att'y Gen. 47.

Cross Reference:  302 Superintendent

Approved:  Feb. 10, 1997, Sep 15, 2014    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Aug 18, 2014  
Revised:     Aug 18, 2014

The board employs a superintendent of schools to serve as the chief executive officer of the board.  The board delegates to the superintendent the authority to implement board policy and to execute decisions made by the board concerning the internal operations of the school district, unless specifically stated otherwise.

The superintendent is responsible for the implementation and execution of board policy and the observance of board policy by employees and students.  The superintendent is responsible for overall supervision and discipline of employees and the education program.

In executing the above-stated duties, the superintendent will consider the financial situation of the school district as well as the needs of the students.  Specifically, the superintendent:

·      Interprets and implements all board policies and all state and federal laws relevant to education;

·      Supervises, either directly or through delegation, all activities of the school system according to, and consistent with, the policies of the board;

·      Represents the board as a liaison between the school district and the community;

·      Establishes and maintains a program of public relations to keep the public well-informed of the activities and needs of the school district, effecting a wholesome and cooperative working relationship between the school district and the community;

·      Attends and participates in all meetings of the board, except when the superintendent has been excused, and makes recommendations affecting the school district;

·      Reports to the board on such matters as deemed material to the understanding and proper management of the school district or as the board may request;

·      Assumes responsibility for the overall financial planning of the district and for the preparation of the annual budget, and submits it to the board for review and approval;

·      Establishes and maintains efficient procedures and effective controls for all expenditures of school district funds in accordance with the adopted budget, subject to the direction and approval of the board;

·      Files, or causes to be filed, all reports required by law;

·      Makes recommendations to the board for the selection of employees for the school district;

·      Makes and records assignments and transfers of all employees pursuant to their qualifications;

·      Employs such employees as may be necessary, within the limits of budgetary provisions and subject to the board's approval;

·      Recommends to the board, for final action, the promotion, salary change, demotion, or dismissal of any employee;

·      Prescribes rules for the classification and advancement of students, and for the transfer of students from one building to another in accordance with board policies;

·      Summons employees of the school district to attend such regular and occasional meetings as are necessary to carry out the education program of the school district;

·      Supervises methods of teaching, supervision, and administration in effect in the schools;

·      Attends such conventions and conferences as are necessary to keep informed of the latest educational trends;

·      Accepts responsibility for the general efficiency of the school system, for the development of the employees, and for the educational growth and welfare of the students;

·      Defines educational needs and formulates policies and plans for recommendation to the board;

·      Makes administrative decisions necessary for the proper functioning of the school district;

·      Responsible for scheduling the use of buildings and grounds by all groups and/or organizations;

·      Acts as the purchasing agent for the board, and establishes procedures for the purchase of books, materials and supplies;

·      Approves vacation schedules for employees;

·      Conducts periodic district administration meetings;

·      Performs other duties as may be assigned by the board.

·      Supervises the establishment or modification of the boundaries of school attendance and transportation areas subject to approval of the board; and

·      Directs studies of buildings and sites, taking into consideration population trends and the educational and cultural needs of the district in order to ensure timely decisions by the board and the electorate regarding construction and renovation projects.

This list of duties will not act to limit the board's authority and responsibility over the superintendent.  In executing these duties and others the board may delegate, the superintendent will consider the school district's financial condition as well as the needs of the students in the school district.

NOTE:  This is a sample list of superintendent duties.  A board may want to substitute its own superintendent job description for the policy.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20, 23A (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.4(4).

Cross Reference:  209       Board of Directors' Management Procedures
                                      301       Administrative Structure
                                      302       Superintendent

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Jan 16, 2012, November 26, 2018    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jan 16, 2012, Oct. 15, 2018  
Revised:   Dec 19, 2011, Oct. 15, 2018  

The board will conduct an ongoing evaluation of the superintendent's skills, abilities, and competence.  At a minimum, the board will formally evaluate the superintendent on an annual basis.  The goal of the superintendent's formal evaluation is to ensure the education program for the students is carried out, promote growth in effective administrative leadership, clarify the superintendent's role, clarify the immediate priorities of the board, and develop a working relationship between the board and the superintendent.

The superintendent will be an educational leader who promotes the success of all students by:

• Facilitating the development, articulation, implementation, and stewardship of a vision of learning that is shared and supported by the school community. 
• Advocating, nurturing and sustaining a school culture and instructional program conducive to student learning and staff professional development. 
• Ensuring management of the organization, operations and resources for a safe, efficient and effective learning environment. 
• Collaborating with families and community members, responding to diverse community interests and needs and mobilizing community resources.   
• Acting with integrity, fairness and in an ethical manner.
• Understanding the profile of the community, and responding to and influencing the larger political, social, economic, legal and cultural context.

The formal evaluation will be based upon the following principles:

·    The evaluation criteria will be in writing, clearly stated and mutually agreed upon by the board and the superintendent.  The criteria will be related to the job description and the school district's goals;

·    At a minimum, the evaluation process will be conducted annually at a time agreed upon;

·    Each board member will have an opportunity to individually evaluate the superintendent, and these individual evaluations will be compiled into an overall evaluation by the entire board;

·    The superintendent will conduct a self-evaluation prior to discussing the board's evaluation, and the board as a whole will discuss its evaluation with the superintendent;

·    The board may discuss its evaluation of the superintendent in closed session upon a request from the superintendent and if the board determines its discussion in open session will needlessly and irreparably injure the superintendent's reputation; and,

·    The individual evaluation by each board member, if individual board members so desire, will not be reviewed by the superintendent.  Board members are encouraged to communicate their criticisms and concerns to the superintendent in the closed session.  The board president will develop a written summary of the individual evaluations, including both the strengths and the weaknesses of the superintendent, and place it in the superintendent's personnel file to be incorporated into the next cycle of evaluations.

This policy supports and does not preclude the ongoing, informal evaluation of the superintendent's skills, abilities and competence.

Legal Reference:  Wedergren v. Board of Directors, 307 N.W.2d 12 (Iowa 1981).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20, .23, .23A (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. Ch. 83; 12.3(4).

Cross Reference:  212    Closed Sessions
                                      302    Superintendent

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985,Jan 16, 2012, November 26, 2018    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jan 16, 2012, Oct. 15, 2018
Revised:  June 12, 1989, Dec. 13, 2010, Oct. 15, 2018

The board encourages the superintendent to continue professional growth by being involved in professional organizations, attending conferences, continuing education, and participating in other professional activities.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to arrange the superintendent's schedule in order to enable attendance at various conferences and events.  If a conference or event requires the superintendent to be absent from the office for more than two days, requires overnight traveling, or involves unusual expense, the superintendent will bring it to the attention of the board president prior to attending the event.

The superintendent will report to the board after an event.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.7.

Cross Reference:  303.7  Administrator Professional Development
                                      401.7  Employee Travel Compensation

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Jan 16, 2012, November 26, 2018   
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jan 16, 2012, Oct. 15, 2018  
Revised:  Oct. 15, 2018  

The board encourages the superintendent to be involved in the school district community by belonging to school district community organizations and attending and participating in school district community activities.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to become involved in school district community activities and events.  The board may consider paying the annual fees of the superintendent for school district community activities and events if, in the board's judgment, the superintendent's participation will further the public purpose of promoting and deriving support for the school district and public education in general.  It will be within the discretion of the board to pay annual fees(s) for professional organizations and activities.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
                                      1990 Op. Att'y Gen. 79.

Cross Reference:  302.3 Superintendent Salary and Other Compensation
                                      303.9 Administrator Civic Activities

Approved:  Feb. 10, 1997, Jan 16, 2012, November 26, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jan 16, 2012, Oct. 15, 2018        
Revised: , Oct. 15, 2018        

The superintendent's position is considered full-time employment.  The board expects the superintendent to give the responsibilities of the position precedence over other employment or volunteer activities.  The superintendent may accept consulting or outside employment for pay as long as, in the judgment of the board, the work is conducted on the superintendent's personal time and it does not interfere with the performance of the superintendent's duties contracted by the board.

The board reserves the right, however, to request that the superintendent cease the outside employment or volunteer activity(ies) as a condition of continued employment.  The board will give the superintendent thirty days notice to cease outside employment.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20 (2013).

Cross Reference:  302.2 Superintendent Contract and Contract Nonrenewal
                                      302.4 Superintendent Duties

Approved:  Feb. 10, 1997, Jan 16, 2012, November 26, 2018    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jan 16, 2012, Oct. 15, 2018             
Revised:  Dec 19, 2011, Oct. 15, 2018             

The school district may have, in addition to the superintendent, other administrative positions:

• Assistant Superintendent
• Director of Curriculum
• Business Manager/Board Secretary/SBO
• Activities Director
• Building Principals
• Assistant Principals
• Technology Director

(This list is not considered to be exclusive or limited to the above)

These administrators will work closely with the superintendent in the day-to-day operations of the school district.