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

The residence of a student means the place, abode, or dwelling of the student.  Generally, the legal dwelling of minors is the same as their parents.  However, a student may establish a dwelling with someone other than the parents and attend public school in the school district without paying tuition if the primary purpose for residing in the school district is not for the purpose of obtaining a free public education.  Further, 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 (2013).                                                                                                       
                                      1956 Op. Att'y Gen. 185.
                                      1946 Op. Att'y Gen. 197.
                                      1938 Op. Att'y Gen. 69.                                                                                                                                                     
                                      1930 Op. Att'y Gen. 147.

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

Approved:  Dec. 16, 1985 , April 9, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Apr. 22, 2013, March 19, 2018,
Revised: March 19, 2018

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 shall be 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^st 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 (2013).

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance

Approved:  Oct. 12, 1987, Sep 22, 2014, April 9, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Apr. 22, 2013, Aug 25, 2014, March 19, 2018      
Revised: Apr. 22, 2013, Aug 25, 2014, March 19, 2018

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 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 whom:

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

501.3 A

ATTENDANCE GUIDING PRINCIPLE

Regular attendance at school, just like attendance on the job, is an important ingredient to success.  Only through attendance and class participation do students achieve the maximum benefits of the educational program.  Participating in class discussion, developing an appreciation for the views and abilities of other students, and forming the habit of regular attendance are legitimate class objectives.   Learning lost due to absence can never be replaced.  Regular attendance and being prepared for class helps students in school and helps prepare them for adulthood. It is the Parent/Guardians’ responsibility to assure that their child is in attendance.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Children between the age of six and sixteen, as of September 15, residing in Fairfield Community School District, are required to be enrolled in and attending an Iowa accredited public or private school, or receiving competent private instruction pursuant to state law, Iowa Code section 299.1A.  Children of compulsory attendance age who are enrolled in the Fairfield Community School District shall attend school for the number of days according to the district calendar, unless excused under the terms of the district’s attendance policy.

ATTENDANCE CODES

E: Excused Absence--“official slips” such as a medically documented illness, medically documented appointment, court appearances, school-sponsored activities, or other absences approved by building principals.

V: Verified Absence—parent provides written or verbal notification to the school of student’s absence.  Students are allowed six verified absences during the year.  (Unless school administration determines the absence to be truancy).

U: Unexcused—After 6 verified absences any absence is considered unexcused unless it meets the criteria of an “excused” absence (see above).

T: Truancy—an unexcused absence wherein the administration determines the student has ”skipped” school, with or without parent permission.

STEPS FOR ADDRESSING EXCESSIVE ABSENTEEISM

**If at any time, it is determined that a student is showing early signs of chronic absenteeism, steps can be skipped and an Administrative Attendance Hearing may be held or the County Attorney may pursue legal intervention.

STEP 1: When the absences experienced by a student are determined to be excessive, the student has reached six days of verified absences, or absences are of such frequency that school staff is concerned that the success of the student is jeopardized, a letter will be sent to the parent/guardian and attendance information forwarded to the truancy officer.

STEP 1A: If the actions taken in Step 1 do not resolve the issue of excessive absences for the student, and the student has three unexpected absences, the truancy officer will contact the parent/guardian in a further attempt to resolve the issue of excessive absences.  School progress (grades and absences) will be discussed as appropriate, and as determined by the truancy office and building administrator.

STEP 2: In the event the two previous steps fail to resolve the attendance issue, and the student has six unexcused absences, the school will refer the student to the Jefferson County Attorney for assistance in rectifying the attendance issue.

A letter will be sent requesting an “Administrative Attendance Hearing”, and it will be held with the parent/guardian, counselor, principal, teacher, and truancy officer in attendance.  The student’s academic progress and attendance history will be reviewed and procedures established to improve attendance which may include but not be limited to the following:

1. Requiring doctor’s excuse to confirm illness
2. Confirmation of bereavement leave/absence
3. Referral to school counselor
4. Referral to outside agency
5. Assign detention
6. Recommend retention in grade
7. Referral to truancy officer

If the parent refuses to attend the “Administrative Attendance Hearing”, a letter will be placed in the student’s permanent school file to that effect and a copy sent to the County Attorney for their records.

STEP 3: If it is determined that the attendance problem still exists after Step 2, and the student has reached 12 days of unexcused absences, the parent/guardian will be contacted for the last time by the school and informed that a referral for mediation through the County Attorney has been recommended.

STEP 4: The Count Attorney’s office will arrange required mediation as per Iowa Code 229.5A.  Failure to appear for mediation is a misdemeanor under Iowa law.

STEP 5: The School will conduct an ongoing follow-up to determine if the mediation was successful. 

STEP  6: If it is determined that attendance continues to be a problem and in violation of the mediation agreement, and the student has 18 unexcused absences, a referral to the County Attorney’s office or other appropriate agencies will be sent with a recommendation for legal action.

(See the student handbook for the administrative regulation regarding the FCSD attendance policy).

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 259A; 279.10-.11; 299.1-.1A; 299A (2013).
                                      441.1A.C. 41.25(8)
                                      1978 Op. Att'y. Gen. 379.

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

Approved:  Oct. 13, 1986, , April 9, 2018, June 18, 2018      
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Apr. 22, 2013, March 19, 2018, May 21, 2018      
Revised:  Sep. 21, 1992, Mar. 10, 1997, March 19, 2018 May 21, 2018      

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.

The board will require evidence of age and residency in the form of a birth certificate or other evidence before the student may enroll in the school district's education program.  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 shall be reason for suspension, expulsion or denying admission to the student.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 139.9; 282.1, .3, .6 (2013).
                                      1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 258.

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

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, April 9, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Apr. 22, 2013, March 19, 2018     
Revised: March 19, 2018

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

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 difficulties, 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 (1995).

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance

Approved:  Dec. 16, 1985, April 9, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005; June 8, 2009, Apr. 22, 2013, March 19, 2018    
Revised:  July 13, 2009, March 19, 2018

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 (2012).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 139A.8; 282.1, .3, .4: 299A (2013)
                                      Iowa Code § 282.4 (Supp. 1995).

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

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, April 9, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Apr. 22, 2013, March 19, 2018.    
Revised:  March 19, 2018.    

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, school issued equipment, outstanding fees, etc.

The notice will 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 will  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 shall 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 (2012).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 299.1-.1A (2013).

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

Approved:  March 10, 1997, June 17, 2013, April 9, 2018.        
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Apr. 22, 2013, March 19, 2018.           
Revised:  Apr. 22, 2013, March 19, 2018.    

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(2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                      506 Student Records

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, , April 9, 2018.     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Apr. 22, 2013, March 19, 2018.                 
Revised:  March 19, 2018.           

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

Student absences approved by the principal are excused absences.  Excused absences will count as days in attendance for purposes of the truancy law.  These absences include, but are not limited to, [illness, family emergencies, recognized religious observances, appointments that cannot be scheduled outside the school day and school-sponsored or approved activities].

The district believes that traditional, in-person school attendance leads to the greatest learning opportunities for students.  However, there may be rare and unusual circumstances created by public emergencies declared by state or local officials which temporarily prevent students from attending traditional, in-person school.  In these circumstances, the superintendent will have discretion to make reasonable accommodations for students, on a case-by-case basis, to attend school through remote learning opportunities within the available resources of the district and as permitted by law.  During approved remote learning, attendance will be taken, assessments may be administered, and grades will count towards students’ cumulative grade point average as if they were attending in person.  The provision of special education and accommodations for students who have individualized education programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans will be determined by each respective IEP or Section 504 team.

Students whose absences are approved will make up the work missed and receive full credit for the missed school work.  It is the responsibility of the student to initiate a procedure with the student's teacher to complete the work missed.

Students who wish to participate in school-sponsored activities must attend school [the full day or one-half day] the day of the activity unless permission has been given by the principal for the student to be absent.

It is the responsibility of the parent to notify the student's attendance center as soon as the parent knows the student will not be attending school on that day.  The principal may request evidence or written verification of the student's reason for absence.

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. sec. 300
                                        28 C.F.R. Pt. 35
                                        Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299.
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.3(4).

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

Approved                                              
Reviewed                                              
Revised                   

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

Truancy is the failure to attend school for the minimum number of days established in the school calendar by the board.  Truancy is the act of being absent without an excuse that is acceptable to school officials.  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 will be 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 or in school suspension unless the goals and objectives of the student’s Individualized Education Program are capable of being met.

The building principal will investigate the cause for a student's truancy.  If the building principal is unable to secure the truant student’s attendance, the student assistance / at-risk process will be engaged. If the student continues to be truant, the building principal shall refer the matter to the county attorney.

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

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

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299 (2013).
                                      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:  Dec. 10, 1990, Dec 16, 2013, April 9, 2018.          
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, March 19, 2018           
Revised:  March 10, 1997, Oct 28, 2013, March 19, 2018            

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.

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 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).

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

Approved:  Mar. 10, 1997, April 9, 2018
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, March 19, 2018                
Revised: March 19, 2018           

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

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 216; 279.8; 280.3 (2013).

Cross Reference:  501    Student Attendance
                                      604.2 Individualized Instruction

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, April 9, 2018      
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, March 19, 2018                 
Revised:   March 19, 2018           

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. § 123 (2012).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 22; 282.2, .6, .7; 285.4; 599.1; 622.10 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                      506 Student Records

Approved:  Mar. 10, 1997, April 9, 2018      
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, March 19, 2018                 
Revised: March 19, 2018           

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 districts no later than March 1 in the school year proceeding 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 may 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 §§ 139.9; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1 (2013).
                                      House File 882, 2005 General Assembly
                                      281 I.A.C. 17.
                                      1990 Op.  Att'y Gen. 75.

Cross Reference:  501 Student Attendance
                                      506 Student Records

Approved:  June 12, 1989, April 9, 2018      
Reviewed: Aug. 8, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, March 19, 2018                      
Revised:  Oct. 10, 1994, Sep. 16, 1996, Jan. 12, 2004, Sep. 19, 2005, March 19, 2018                 

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 September 1.

The superintendent will notify the sending school district and parents within five days of the superintendent'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 superintendent, in his 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 shall be considered in the order received by the school district with the first open enrollment request given a higher priority than the second open enrollment request and so forth.

Students in grades nine through twelve open enrolling into the school district will not be eligible for participation in interscholastic athletics, at the varsity level, during the first ninety days of open enrollment into the school district. Transfer rules of the governing state athletic association will be observed.

Parents are responsible for providing transportation to and from the receiving school district without reimbursement unless the parents qualify for transportation assistance.  Upon a parent's request, the board may approve transportation into the sending district.  The transportation is limited to within one mile of the district boundary/current bus route.  The board's approval is subject to the sending district's approval.

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 §§ 139.9; 274.1; 279.11; 282.1, .3, .8, .18; 299.1 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 17.
                                      1990 Op. Att'y Gen. 75.

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:  June 12, 1989, Dec 16, 2013, April 9, 2018   
Reviewed:  Aug. 8, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, March 19, 2018                      
Revised:  Sep. 21, 1992, Sep. 16, 1996, Jan. 12, 2004, Sep. 19, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, March 19, 2018                 

The Fairfield 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.

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:  Mar. 10, 1997, Feb 20, 2017, April 9, 2018    
Reviewed:  Sep. 28, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, Dec 7, 2016, March 19, 2018.    
Revised:  Oct. 10, 2005, Dec 7, 2016, March 19, 2018.    

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 (2013)

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

Approved:  Oct. 10, 1994, June 18, 2018
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, May 21, 2018
Revised:     May 21, 2018

Students will treat school district property with care and respect.  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 (2013).

Cross Reference:  502    Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      802.1  Maintenance Schedule

Approved:  Mar. 10, 1997, June 18, 2018    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Apr.20, 2012, Jun 18, 2012, Oct 28, 2013, May 21, 2018      
Revised   May 21, 2018      

Student expression, other than student expression in student-produced official school publications, made on the school district premises or under the jurisdiction of the school district or as part of a school-sponsored activity may be attributed to the school district; therefore, student expression must be responsible.  Student expression must be appropriate to assure 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.

Students will be allowed to express their viewpoints and opinions as long as the expression is responsible.  The expression will  not, in the judgment of the administration, encourage the breaking of laws, cause defamation of persons, be obscene or indecent, or cause a material and substantial disruption to the educational program.  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.  Further, 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. Speech or electronic speech that occurs outside of school but has a nexus to the school shall not encourage the breaking of laws, cause defamation of persons, be obscene or indecent, or cause a material and substantial disruption to the educational program.

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.
                                      Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
                                      Bethel School District v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
                                      New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).
                                      Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District, 393 U.S.
                                      503 (1969).
                                      Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.22; 282.3 (2013).

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

Approved:  Mar. 10, 1997, Dec 16, 2013, June18, 2018   
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Apr. 20, 2012, Jun 18, 2012, Oct 28, 2013, May 21, 2018       
Revised:  Oct 28, 2013, May 21, 2018       

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 five days of the employee's decision. If the matter cannot be resolved by the principal, the student may discuss it with the superintendent within five 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 (2013).

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:  Mar. 10, 1997, June 18, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, May 21, 2018
Revised:   May 21, 2018

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 (2013).
                                      Iowa Code Ch. 808A (Supp. 1995).

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved:  March 10, 1997, June 18, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, May 21, 2018             
Revised:  Dec. 8, 1997, May 21, 2018             

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

School district facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons or 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 or dangerous objects or look-a-likes on school property will be notified of the incident.  Possession or confiscation of weapons, dangerous objects or look-a-likes will be reported to the 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, or 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:  No Child Left Behind, Title IV, Sec. 4141, P.L. 107-110 (2002)
                                      Improving America's Schools Act of 1994, P.L. 103-382.
                                      18 U.S.C. § 921 (2006).
                                      McClain v. Lafayette County Bd. of Education, 673 F.2d 106 (5^th Cir.1982).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 724 (2009).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)

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

Approved:  Oct. 11, 1993, June 18, 2018    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Nov. 8, 2010, Oct 28, 2013, May 21, 2018                   
Revised:  Mar. 10, 1997, May 21, 2018                   

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 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 further 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 (2012).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 123.46; 279.8, .9; 453A (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(9); .5(3) (e), .5(4) (e), .5(5) (e), .5(21).

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

Approved:  Oct. 13, 1986, Dec 16, 2013, Oct 27, 2014, June18, 2018
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct. 11, 2010, Oct 28, 2013, Oct 20, 2014, May 21, 2018                  
Revised:  Mar. 10, 1997, Nov. 8, 2010, Oct 28, 2013, Oct 20, 2014, May 21, 2018                  

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 buses; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.  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 (2013).
                                      Iowa Code ch. 808A (Supp. 2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(8).

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      503 Student Discipline

Approved:  Oct. 13, 1986, June18, 2018    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, May 21, 2018                       
Revised:  Dec. 8, 1997, May 21, 2018

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

Requests from law enforcement officers and from persons other than parents, school district officials, and employees to interview students shall be made through the principal's office.  Upon receiving a request, it 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(2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 102.
                                      441 I.A.C. 9.2; 155; 175.
                                      1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 275.

Cross Reference:  402.2   Child Abuse Reporting
                                      502.8   Search and Seizure
                                      503     Student Discipline

Approved:  Apr. 8, 1985, June 18, 2018   
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, May 21, 2018     
Revised:    May 21, 2018     

The board recognizes the convenience to families and students of having students drive to and park at their school attendance center.  Driving a motor vehicle to and parking it at the student's attendance center is a privilege.

Students who drive to and park at their school attendance center will only drive to and park at their designated attendance center or at either their attendance center or a shared district’s attendance center for the purpose of attending extracurricular activities.  Students may not loiter around or be in their vehicle during the school day without permission from the principal.  Students will leave their attendance center when there is no longer a legitimate reason for them to be at their attendance center.  Students who drive will enter and leave the parking lot by the routes designated by the principal. 

Students who live within one mile of school, and would not otherwise be eligible for a student driving permit, may be eligible for a student driving permit, for driving to and from school and school activities and practices, if the student follows the rules and regulations as established by the principal.

Students who wish to drive to and park at their school attendance center shall comply with the rules and regulations established by the building principal.  Failure to comply with this policy or the school district rules will be reason for revocation of school driving and parking privileges as well as other disciplinary action including suspension and expulsion.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 321 (2013).

Cross Reference:  502      Student Rights and Responsibilities

Approved, June 18, 2018   
Reviewed May 21, 2018
Revised    May 21, 2018

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. This policy is not intended to address the use of therapeutic classrooms or seclusion rooms for students.

Detention means the student's presence is required during nonschool 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 nonschool day.  Whether a student will serve detention, and the length of the detention, shall be within the discretion of the licensed employee disciplining the student or the building principal disciplining the student.

Suspension means either an in-school suspension, an out-of-school suspension, a restriction from activities, or loss of eligibility.  A restriction from school activities means a student will attend school and classes and practice but will not participate in school activities.  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 days. 

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

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

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

It 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:  Oct. 11, 1993, Dec 16, 2013, Feb 20, 2017, June 18, 2018, February 15, 2021        
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, Dec 7, 2016, May 21, 2018, January 25, 2021  
Revised:  Oct. 10, 1994, Dec. 13, 2010, Oct 28, 2013, Dec 7, 2016, May 21, 2018, January 25, 2021  

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 shall be provided with:

            1.         Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion;

           2.         The names of the witnesses and an oral or written report on the facts to which each witness testifies unless the witnesses are students whose names may be    released at the discretion of the superintendent;

            3.         An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide either oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student's       behalf;

            4.         The right to be represented by counsel; and,

            5.         The results and finding of the board in writing open to the student's inspection.

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

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

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 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3 (6).

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      503 Student Discipline

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Sept. 26, 2016, June 18, 2018       
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, Jul 25, 2016, May 21, 2018
Revised:  March 10, 1997, Dec. 13, 2010, Sept.19, 2016, May 21, 2018

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 will be 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 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 18.
                                      1994 Op. Att'y Gen. 23.
                                      1990 Op. Att'y Gen. 79.
                                      1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 227.
                                      1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 532.

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

Approved:  Sept. 16, 1996, Feb 20, 2017, June 18, 2018        
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, Dec 7, 2016, May 21, 2018      
Revised:  Dec 7, 2016, May 21, 2018      

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 (2013).
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 36.15(1).

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

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, May 20, 2013, Dec 15, 2014, June 18, 2018        
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep. 17, 2012, Apr. 5, 2013, Oct 27, 2014, May 21, 2018          
Revised:  Mar. 10, 1996, Aug. 9, 1999, Jan.10, 2000, Sep. 17, 2012, Apr. 5, 2013, Oct 27, 2014, May 21, 2018    

The use of corporal punishment, mechanical restraint and/or prone restraint is prohibited in all schools. 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.

Mechanical restraint means the use of a device as a means of restricting a student’s freedom of movement. Mechanical restraint does not mean a device used by a trained individual for specific approved therapeutic or safety purposes for which the device was designed and, if applicable, prescribed, including restraints for medical immobilization, adaptive devices or mechanical supports used to allow greater freedom of mobility than would be possible without use of such devices or mechanical supports; and vehicle safety restraints when used as intended during the transport of a student in a moving vehicle.

Prone restraint means any restraint in which the student is held face down on the floor.

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

          1.         The size and physical, mental, and psychological condition of the student;

          2.         The nature of the student's behavior or misconduct provoking the use of physical force;

          3.         The instrumentality used in applying the physical force;

          4.         The extent and nature of resulting injury to the student, if any;

          5.         The motivation of the school employee using physical force.

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

It 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 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(8); 103.
                                      1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 275.

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

Approved:  June 12, 1989, June 18, 2018, February 15, 2021         
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Nov. 8, 2010, Oct 28, 2013, May 21, 2018, January 25, 2021          
Revised:     Oct. 11, 1993, May 21, 2018, January 25, 2021          

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 nonmonetary 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. 

NOTE:  There are specific requirements for school districts to fulfill before and after using physical restraint and seclusion with students.  Administrators should thoroughly read and understand the requirements listed in Chapter 103 of the Iowa Administrative Code.

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 15, 2021        
Reviewed   January 25, 2021 
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 2013.

Cross Reference:  502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      504 Student Activities

Approved: Feb. 11, 1985, Aug. 20, 2018
Reviewed: Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, July 16, 2018
Revised: March 10, 1997, July 16, 2018

Secondary school student-initiated, non-curriculum-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.

Non-curriculum Related Organizations

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

Only students may attend and participate in meetings of non-curriculum 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 non-curriculum group's meetings.

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 (2012).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 287.1-.3; 297.9 (2013).

Cross Reference:  502  Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      504  Student Activities

Approved:  Oct. 13, 1986, Aug. 20, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, July 16, 2018      
Revised:  Sept. 21, 1992, July 16, 2018      

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 214.1.  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 (2013).

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

Approved:  Oct. 13, 1986, Aug. 20, 2018   
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, July 16, 2018      
Revised:  Sept. 21, 1992, July 16, 2018     

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

• Performances by student groups 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 will be within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether the event will benefit the education program and the participating students.  Contests or other performances by students unapproved by the superintendent will be the responsibility of the parent and the student.

Legal Reference:  Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 280.13-.14 (2013).
                                      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:  Oct. 9, 1989, Sep 22, 2014, Aug. 20, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Aug. 25, 2014, Jul. 16, 2018      
Revised:  March 10, 1997, Aug. 28, 2014

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 (1995).

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

Approved:  March 10, 1997, Aug. 20, 2018    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, June 14, 2010, Oct 28, 2013, July 16, 2018   
Revised:  July 12, 2010, Aug. 20, 2018

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 it involves unusual travel expense, in which case the board will take action.  The events must not disrupt the education program or other school district operations.

A student (7-12) who participates in a school sponsored sport may participate in a non-school sponsored sport during the same season.

It will be 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 (1988).
                                      34 C.F.R. Pt. 106.41 (1993).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 280.13-.14 (1995).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.6.

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

Approved:  Oct. 12, 1987, Aug. 20, 2018     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, July 16, 2018   
Revised:  June 12, 1989 & Jan. 12, 1998, July 16, 2018   

Students will receive a progress report at the middle and end of each grading period. Students who are doing poorly, and their parents, shall be notified. 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, middle school, and high school to keep the parents informed. An individual parent-teacher conference will be scheduled biannually for families with students in grades K-4.

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.

Individual Student’s Progress

In addition to classroom work samples and alternative assessments, teachers may use the results of district-wide standardized tests as progress indicators.  The following assessments may be shared as indicators of progress at each of the indicated grade levels:

KG                          Marie Clay Observation Survey

                                  FAST assessment

1-4 8                       FAST

                                  Jerry L. Johns Basic Reading Inventory (BRI)

2                               Otis Lennon Scholastic Ability Test (OLSAT)

3-11                        ISASP

Pre-K                     IGDI Assessment

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 284.12 (2013).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A; 280 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), .3(7); .5(16).

Cross Reference:  505 Student Scholastic Achievement
                                      506 Student Records

Approved:  March. 10, 1997, Dec 16, 2013, Aug. 20, 2018, April 12, 2021    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Nov 1, 2013, July 16, 2018, March 15, 2021        
Revised:   Nov 1, 2013, July 16, 2018, March 15, 2021            

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 course work necessary to be promoted each year. When it becomes evident a student in these grades will be unable to meet the minimum credit requirements for the year, the student and parents will be informed. It is within the sole discretion of the district to retain students in their current grade level and to deny promotion to a student.
• Acceleration in kindergarten – twelfth grade: Students in grades kindergarten through twelve with exceptional talents may, with the permission of the principal and parents, take classes beyond their current grade level. Enrichment opportunities outside the school district may be allowed when they do not conflict with the school district's graduation requirements.
• 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 my seek recourse through policy 502.4 – Student Complaints and Grievances.

NOTE: School districts that use specific steps or processes for determining retention or acceleration should reference the applicable criteria or where to locate the criteria in the bulleted information above.

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

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

Approved:  March. 10, 1997, March 19, 2018, August 20, 2018       
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Oct 28, 2013, February 19, 2018, July 16, 2018         
Revised:  February 19, 2018, March 19, 2018, July 16, 2018              

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 will 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.  To be eligible for honors and awards at Fairfield High School, students must meet the Fairfield High School standards for that award/honor.

Students who transfer to Fairfield High School their senior year must be enrolled long enough to establish their G.P.A. and class rank for at least one school year in order to be able to receive honors recognition at the time of graduation.

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