The school calendar will accommodate the education program of the school district.  The school calendar will be for a minimum of 1080 hours and include, but not be limited to, the days for student instruction, staff development, in-service days and teacher conferences.

The academic school year for students shall begin no sooner than August 23. Employees may be required to report to work at the school district prior to this date.

Special education students may attend school on a school calendar different from that of the regular education program consistent with their Individualized Education Program.

The board, in its discretion, may excuse graduating seniors from up to 30 hours of instruction after the school district requirements for graduation have been met.  The board may also excuse graduating seniors from making up days missed due to inclement weather if the student has met the school district's graduation requirements.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the school calendar for recommendation, approval, and adoption by the board annually.

The board may amend the official school calendar when the board considers the change to be in the best interests of the school district's education program. The board shall hold a public hearing on any proposed school calendar prior to adopting the school calendar.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 20.9; 279.10; 280.3 (2013).
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.1(7).

Cross Reference:  501.3  Compulsory Attendance
                                       601.2  School Day
                                       603.3  Special Education

Approved:  Oct. 12, 1987, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, December 02, 2019      
Revised:  Oct. 10, 1994, Sep 22, 2014

Curriculum development is an ongoing process in the school district and consists of both research and design.  Research is the studious inquiry and critical investigation of the various content areas for the purpose of revising and improving curriculum and instruction based on relevant information pertaining to the discipline.  This study is conducted both internally (what and how we are currently doing at the local level) and externally (what national standards, professional organizations, recognized experts, current research, etc. tell us relative to the content area).  Design is the deliberate process of planning and selecting the standards and instructional strategies that will improve the learning experience for all students.

A systematic approve to curriculum development (careful research, design, and articulation of the curriculum) serves several purposes:

• Focuses attention on the content standards of each discipline and ensures the identified learnings are rigorous, challenging, and represent the most important learnings for our students.
• Increases the probability that students will acquire the desired knowledge, skills and dispositions and that our schools will be successful in providing appropriate learning experiences.
• Facilitates communication and coordination.
• Improves classroom instruction.

The superintendent is responsible for curriculum development and for determining the most effective way of conducting research and design activities.   A curriculum framework will describe the processes and procedures that will be followed in researching, designing, and articulating each curriculum area.  This framework will, at a minimum, describe the processes for the following curriculum development activities to: 

• Study the latest thinking, trends, research, and expert advice regarding the content/discipline;
• Study the current status of the content/discipline (what and how well students are currently learning);
• Identify content standards, benchmarks, and grade level expectations for the content/discipline;
• Verify integration of local, state, and/or federal mandates;
• Verify how the standards and benchmarks of the content/discipline support each of the broader student learning goals and provide a K-12 continuum that builds on the prior learning of each level.
• Describe the desired learning behaviors, teaching and learning environment related to the content/discipline;
• Identify differences in the desired and present program and develop a plan for addressing the differences;
• Communicate with internal and external publics regarding the content area;
• Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum development decisions

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of necessary curriculum changes and revisions and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum development and recommendations to the board.

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2010).
                                       34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2010).
                                       Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.7, 279.8; 280.3 (2013).
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.5.8.

Cross Reference:  101  Educational Philosophy of the School District
                                       103   Long Range Needs Assessment
                                       602  Curriculum Development
                                       603  Instructional Curriculum
                                       605  Instructional Materials

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, December 02 2019      
Revised:  Oct. 11, 1993, Oct. 9, 2000, Sep 22, 2014

Without careful and continuing attention to implementation, planned changes in curriculum and instruction rarely succeed as intended.  How change is put into practice, to a large extent, determines how well it fares.

Implementation refers to what actually happens in practice as compared to what was supposed to happen.  Curriculum implementation includes the provision of organized assistance to staff in order to ensure that the newly developed curriculum and the most powerful instructional strategies are actually delivered at the classroom level.  There are two components of any implementation effort that must be present to guarantee the planned changes in curriculum and instruction succeed as intended:

• Understanding the conceptual framework of the content/discipline being implemented; and,
• Organized assistance to understand the theory, observe exemplary demonstrations, have opportunities to practice, and receive coaching and feedback focused on the most powerful instructional strategies to deliver the content at the classroom level.

The superintendent is responsible for curriculum implementation and for determining the most effective way of providing organized assistance and monitoring the level of implementation.  A curriculum framework will describe the processes and procedures that will be followed to assist all staff in developing the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully implement the developed curriculum in each content area.  This framework will, at a minimum, describe the processes and procedures for the following curriculum implementation activities to:

• Study and identify the best instructional practices and materials to deliver the content;
• Describe procedures for the purchase of instructional materials and resources (See Policy 603);
• Identify/develop exemplars that demonstrate the learning behaviors, teaching, land learning environment to deliver the content;
• Study the current status of instruction in the content area (how teachers are teaching);
• Compare the desired and present delivery system, identify differences (gap analysis), and develop a plan for addressing the differences;
• Organize staff into collaborative study teams to support their learning and implementation efforts (address the gaps);
• Provide ongoing professional development related to instructional strategies and materials that focuses on theory, demonstration, practice and feedback;
• Regularly monitor and assess the level of implementation;
• Communicate with internal and external publics regarding curriculum implementation;
• Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum implementation decisions.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of curriculum implementation activities, progress of each content area related to curriculum implementation activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum implementation including recommendations to the board.

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2010).
                                       34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2010).
                                       Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 279.8; 280.3-.14 (2013).
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.8.

Cross Reference:  101  Educational Philosophy of the School
                                      103  Long-Range Needs Assessment
                                       505  Student Scholastic Achievement
                                       602  Curriculum Development
                                       603  Instructional Curriculum

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, December 02, 2019
Revised:  Oct. 9, 2000, Sep 22, 2014

Regular evaluation of the total curriculum is necessary to ensure that the written and delivered curriculum is having the desired effect for students.

Curriculum evaluation refers to an ongoing process of collecting, analyzing, synthesizing, and interpreting information of aid in understanding what students know and can do.  It refers to the full range of information gathered in the school district to evaluate (make judgments about) student learning and program effectiveness in each content area.

Curriculum evaluation must be based on information gathered from a comprehensive assessment system that is designed for accountability and committed to the concept that all students will achieve at high levels, is standards-based, and informs decisions which impact significant and sustainable improvements in teaching and student learning.

The superintendent is responsible for curriculum evaluation and for determining the most effective way of ensuring that assessment activities are integrated into instructional practices as part of school improvement with a particular focus on improving teaching and learning.  A curriculum framework will describe the procedures that will be followed to establish an evaluation process that can efficiently and effectively evaluate the total curriculum.  This framework will, at a minimum, describe the procedures for the following curriculum evaluation activities:

• Identify specific purposes for assessing student learning;
• Develop a comprehensive assessment plan;
• Select/develop assessment tools and scoring procedures that are valid and reliable;
• Identify procedures for collecting assessment data;
• Identify procedures for analyzing and interpreting information and drawing conclusions based on the data (including analysis of the performance of various sub-groups of students);
• Identify procedures for establishing at least three levels of performance (specific to the content standard and the assessment tool when appropriate) to assist in determining whether students have achieved at a satisfactory level (at least two levels describe performance that is proficient or advanced and at least one level describes students who are not yet performing at the proficient level);
• Identify procedures for using assessment information to determine long-range and annual improvement goals;
• Identify procedures for using assessment information in making decisions focused on improving teaching and learning (data based decision making);
• Provide support to staff in using data to make instructional decisions;
• Define procedures for regular and clear communication about assessment results to the various internal and external publics (mandatory for communication about students receiving special education services);
• Define data reporting procedures;
• Verify that assessment tools are fair for all students and are consistent with all state and federal mandates;
• Verify that assessment tools measure the curriculum that is written and delivered;
• Identify procedures for deciding when multiple assessment measures are necessary for    making good decisions and drawing appropriate conclusions about student learning;
• Identify roles and responsibilities of key groups;
• Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum evaluation;
• Ensure participation of eligible students receiving special education services in district-wide assessments.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of curriculum evaluation activities, the progress of each content area related to curriculum evaluation activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum evaluation including recommendations to the board.

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2010).
                                      34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2010).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 279.8; 280.3-.14 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.8.

Cross Reference:  101  Educational Philosophy of the School District
                                      103  Long-Range Needs Assessment
                                      505  Student Scholastic Achievement
                                      602  Curriculum Development
                                            603  Instructional Curriculum

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, December 02, 2019      
Revised:  Oct. 9, 2000, Sep 22, 2014

The board welcomes new ideas in curriculum.  Proposals for pilot or experimental projects will first be reviewed and analyzed by the superintendent.  Projects recommended by the superintendent will be considered by the board.  Pilot and experimental projects approved by the board, the Iowa Department of Education, or the U. S. Department of Education may be utilized in the education program.

Students, who may be or are asked to participate in a research or experimental project or program, must have their parents' written consent on file prior to participating in the project or program.  A research or experimental program or project requiring parents' prior written consent is a program or project designed to explore or develop new or unproven teaching methods or techniques.  These programs or projects will be designated as research or experimental projects or programs.  The educational materials of a program or project designated as a research or experimental program or project may be inspected and reviewed by the parents of the students participating or being considered for participation in the program or project.  The inspection and review by the parents will be in accordance with board policy 605.2, "Instructional Materials Inspection."

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

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2010).
                                      34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2010).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .10; 280.3 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.5,.8.

Cross Reference:  602  Curriculum Development
                                      603  Instructional Curriculum

Approved:  Nov. 10, 1997, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, December 02, 2019      
Revised:    Sep 22, 2014

The basic instruction program will include the courses required for each grade level by the State Department of Education.  The instructional approach will be gender fair and multicultural.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in kindergarten is designed to develop healthy emotional and social habits, language arts and communication skills, the capacity to complete individual tasks, character education and the ability to protect and increase physical well-being with attention given to experiences relating to the development of life skills and human growth and development.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades one through six will include English-language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, health, human growth and development, physical education, traffic safety, music, and visual art.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades seven and eight will include English-language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, health, human growth and development, family and consumer, career, technology education, physical education, music, and visual art.

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades nine through twelve will include English-language arts (6 units), social studies (5 units), mathematics (6 units), science (5 units), health (1 unit), physical education (1 unit), fine arts (3 units), foreign language (4 units), and vocational education (12 units).

The board may, in its discretion, offer additional courses in the instruction program for any grade level.

Each instruction program is carefully planned for optimal benefit taking into consideration the financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the board or superintendent.  Each instruction program's plan should describe the program, its goals, the effective materials, the activities and the method for student evaluation.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations stating the required courses and optional courses for kindergarten, grades one through five, grades six, seven and eight, and grades nine through twelve.

Legal Reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2010).
                                       34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2010).
                                       Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.11; 279.8; 280.3-.14 (2013).
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.5.

Cross Reference:  102 Equal Educational Opportunity
                                       103  Long-Range Needs Assessment
                                       505  Student Scholastic Achievement
                                       602  Curriculum Development                                            
                                       603  Instructional Curriculum

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, December 02, 2019      
Revised:   Sep 22, 2014

The Fairfield Community School District recognizes the importance of ongoing learning opportunities for students. As such, the district shall offer summer school instruction in accordance with the following:

• The board, in its discretion, may offer summer school for one or more courses and student activities for students who need additional help and instruction or for enrichment in those areas.  Upon receiving a request for summer school, the board will weigh the benefit to the students and the school district as well as the school district's budget and availability of licensed employees to conduct summer school.

• If a child who is eligible for special education has been determined to need extended school year services as necessary to receive a free appropriate public education, as determined according to state and federal law, such services shall be provided as described in the child’s individualized education program.
• In additional instances as provided by law.

The superintendent may develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3; 282.6.
                                        Iowa Admin. Code. 41.106.

Cross Reference:  410.2    Summer School Licensed Employees
                                        505.2    Student Promotion – Retention – Acceleration
                                        603       Instructional Curriculum
                                        711.4    Summer School Transportation

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, December 02, 2019      
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014

The board recognizes some students have different educational needs than other students.  The board will provide a free appropriate public education program and related services to students identified in need of special education.  The special education services will be provided from birth until the appropriate education is completed, age twenty-one or to maximum age allowable in accordance with the law.  Students requiring special education will attend general education classes, participate in nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities and receive services in a general education setting to the maximum extent appropriate to the needs of each individual student.  The appropriate education for each student is written in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Special education students are required to meet the requirements stated in board policy for graduation.  It will be the responsibility of the superintendent and the area education agency director of special education to provide or make provisions for appropriate special education and related services.

Beginning with the class of 2022, requirements for students in special education to earn a regular high school diploma will include successful completion of four years of English, three years of math, three years of science, three years of social studies, and the completion of the district’s physical education requirements.

Children from birth through age 2 and children age 3 through age 5 are provided comprehensive special education services within the public education system.  The school district will work in conjunction with the area education agency to provide services, at the earliest appropriate time, to children with disabilities from birth through age 2.  This will be done to ensure a smooth transition of children entitled to early childhood special education services.

Legal Reference:  Board of Education v. Rowley, 458 U.S. 176 (1982).
                                      Springdale School District #50 v. Grace, 693 F.2d 41 (8th Cir. 1982).
                                      Southeast Warren Comm. School District v. Dept. of Public Instruction
                                      285N.W.2d 173 (Iowa 1979).
                                      20 U.S.C. §§1400 et seq. (2010).
                                      34 C.F.R. Pt. 300 et seq. (2010).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 256.11(7); 256B; 273.1, .2, .5, .9(2)-(3); 280.8 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 41.109.

Cross Reference:  503     Student Discipline
                                      505.5  Graduation Requirements
                                      506     Student Records
                                      507.2  Administration of Medication to Students
                                      507.8  Student Special Health Services
                                      601.1  School Calendar                                                                                                                             
                                      603     Instructional Curriculum

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020, April 12, 2021    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Nov. 8, 2010, Sep 22, 2014, Dec. 02, 2019, Mar. 15, 2021    
Revised:  Nov. 10, 1997, Oct. 9, 2000, Sep 22, 2014, March 15, 2021    

Students will have an equal opportunity for a quality education without discrimination, regardless of their race, religion, creed, socioeconomic status, color, sex, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.

The education program is free of discrimination and provides equal opportunity for the students.  The education program will foster knowledge of and respect and appreciation for the historical and contemporary contributions of diverse cultural groups, as well as men and women, to society.  Special emphasis will be placed on Asian-Americans, African-Americans, Hispanic-Americans, American Indians, European-Americans and persons with disabilities.  It will also reflect the wide variety of roles open to both men and women and provide equal opportunity to both sexes.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.11 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.5(8).

Cross Reference:  102  Equal Educational Opportunity
                                      600  Goals and Objectives of the Education Program

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020     
Reviewed:  July 20, 2007, Oct. 11, 2010, Sept 22, 2014, December 18, 2019      
Revised:  Mar. 13, 2006, Aug. 13, 2007, Nov. 8, 2010, Sep 22, 2014

Students in grade levels one through twelve shall receive, as part of their health education, instruction about personal health; food and nutrition; environmental health; safety and survival skills; consumer health; family life; human growth and development; substance abuse and non-use, including the effects of alcohol, tobacco, drugs and poisons on the human body; human sexuality; self-esteem; stress management; interpersonal relationships; emotional and social health; health resources; prevention and control of disease; communicable diseases, including sexually transmitted diseases and acquired immune deficiency syndrome; and current crucial health issues.  The purpose of the health education program is to help each student protect, improve and maintain physical, emotional and social well-being.

The areas stated above are included in health education and the instruction are adapted at each grade level to aid understanding by the students.

Parents who object to health education instruction in human growth and development may file a written request that the student be excused from the instruction.  The written request will include a proposed alternate activity or study acceptable to the superintendent.  The superintendent will have the final authority to determine the alternate activity or study.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.11; 279.8; 280.3-.14 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.5.

Cross Reference:  502  Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      603  Instructional Curriculum
                                      607  Instructional Services

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, December 02, 2019            
Revised:  Sep. 21, 1992, Sep 22, 2014

Students in grades one through twelve are required to participate in physical education courses unless they are excused by the principal of their attendance center.

Students may be excused from physical education courses if the student presents a written statement from a doctor stating that such activities could be injurious to the health of the student or the student has been exempted because of a conflict with the student's religious beliefs.

Students in grades 9-12 may also be excused from physical education courses if:

• the student is enrolled in academic courses not otherwise available

Twelfth grade students may also be excused from physical education courses if the student is enrolled in a cooperative, work study or other educational program authorized by the school which requires the student’s absence from school.

Students who will not participate in physical education must have a written request or statement from their parents.

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy and reflects the educational standards.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 256.11 (2003).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.5.

Cross Reference:  504 Student Activities
                                      603 Instructional Curriculum

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Jun 18, 2012, Feb 15, 2016, Jan. 20, 2020, April 12, 2021          
Reviewed:  Sep. 28, 2005, Jun 18, 2012, Jan 11, 2016, Jan. 20, 2020, March 15, 2021      
Revised:  Nov. 10, 1997, Oct. 10, 2005, Jan 11, 2016, March 15, 2021      

Preparing students for careers is one goal of the education program.  Career education will be written into the education program for grades kindergarten through twelve.  This education will include, but not be limited to, awareness of self in relation to others and the needs of society, exploration of employment opportunities, experiences in personal decision-making, and experiences of integrating work values and work skills into their lives.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to assist licensed employees in finding ways to provide career education in the education program.  Special attention will be given to courses of vocational education nature.  The board, in its review of the curriculum, will review the means in which career education is combined with other instructional programs.

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy and reflects the educational standards.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A; 280.9 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.5(7).

Cross Reference:  603 Instructional Curriculum

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020         
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020    
Revised:  Nov. 10, 1997, Sep 22, 2014

The school district is required to keep the practice of religion out of the school curriculum.  The board recognizes the key role religion has played in the history of the world and authorizes the study of religious history and traditions as part of the curriculum.  Preferential or derogatory treatment of a single religion shall not take place.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure the study of religion in the schools in keeping with the following guidelines:

• the proposed activity must have a secular purpose;

• the primary objective of the activity must not be one that advances or inhibits religion; and

• the activity must not foster excessive governmental entanglement with religion.

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy and reflects the educational standards.

Legal Reference:  U.S. Const. amend. I.
                                      Lee v. Weisman. 112 S. Ct. 2649 (1992).
                                      Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602 (1971).
                                      Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County,
                                      608 F. Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985).
                                      Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.6 (2013).

Cross Reference:  603    Instructional Curriculum
                                      604.5  Religious-Based Exclusion from a School Program
                                      606.2  School Ceremonies and Observances

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020         
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020      
Revised:  Nov. 10, 1997, Sep 22, 2014       

The board believes students should have an opportunity to reach their own decisions and beliefs about conflicting points of view.  Academic freedom is the opportunity of licensed employees and students to study, investigate, present, interpret, and discuss facts and ideas relevant to the subject matter of the classroom and appropriate to and in good taste with the maturity and intellectual and emotional capacities of the students.

It shall be the responsibility of the teacher to refrain from advocating partisan causes, sectarian religious views, or biased positions in the classroom or through teaching methods.  Teachers are not discouraged from expressing personal opinions as long as students are aware it is a personal opinion and students are allowed to reach their own conclusions independently.

It shall be the responsibility of the principal to ensure academic freedom is allowed but not abused in the classroom.

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy and reflects the educational standards.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .6 (2013).

Cross Reference:  502    Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      603    Instructional Curriculum
                                      903.5 Distribution of Materials

Approved:  Nov. 10, 1997, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020           
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020     
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014

Because of our growing interdependence with other nations in the world, global education is incorporated into the education program for grades kindergarten through twelve so that students have the opportunity to acquire a perspective on world issues, problems, and prospects for an awareness of the relationship between an individual's self-interest and the concerns of people elsewhere in the world.  Global education, in the education program, is the lifelong growth in understanding, through study and participation, of the world community and the interdependency of its people and systems--social, cultural, racial, economic, linguistic, technological, and ecological.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.5(11).

Cross Reference:  602 Curriculum Development
                                      603 Instructional Curriculum

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020        
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, Jan. 20, 2020      
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014

Being a citizen of the United States, of Iowa and of the school district community entitles students to special privileges and protections as well as requiring the students to assume civic, economic and social responsibilities and to participate in their country, state and school district community in a manner that entitles them to keep these rights and privileges.

As part of the education program, students will have an opportunity to learn about their rights, privileges, and responsibilities as citizens of this country, state and school district community.  As part of this learning opportunity students are instructed in the elements of good citizenship and the role quality citizens play in their country, state and school district community.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 12.5(3)(b)-(5)(b).

Cross Reference:  101  Educational Philosophy of the School District
                                      502  Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      503  Student Discipline

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014      
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014

The Fairfield Community School District recognizes that families with students of compulsory attendance age may select alternative forms of education outside the traditional school setting, including private instruction. The applicable legal requirements for private instruction, including, but not limited to those relating to reporting and evaluations for progress, shall be followed.

Except as otherwise exempted, in the event a child of compulsory attendance age as defined by law does not attend public school or an accredited nonpublic school, the child must receive private instruction. Private instruction means instruction using a plan and a course of study in a setting other than a public or organized accredited nonpublic school. 

Private instruction can take the form of competent private instruction and independent private instruction. The Iowa Department of Education recognizes three options for delivery of this form of instruction: two options for delivery of competent private instruction and one option for independent private instruction.

Competent private instruction means private instruction provided on a daily basis for at least one hundred forty-eight days during a school year, to be met by attendance for at least thirty-seven days each school quarter, which results in the student making adequate progress.  Competent private instruction is provided by or under the supervision of a licensed practitioner or by other individuals identified in law. 

Independent private instruction means instruction that meets the following criteria: (i) is not accredited, (ii) enrolls not more than four unrelated students, (iii) does not charge tuition, fees, or other remuneration for instruction, (iv) provides private or religious-based instruction as its primary purpose, (v) provides enrolled students with instruction in mathematics, reading and language arts, science, and social studies, (vi) provides, upon written request from the superintendent of the school district in which the independent private instruction is provided, or from the director of the department of education, a report identifying the primary instructor, location, name of the authority responsible for the independent private instruction, and the names of the students enrolled, (vii) is not a nonpublic school and does not provide competent private instruction as defined herein, and (viii) is exempt from all state statutes and administrative rules applicable to a school, a school board, or a school district, except as otherwise provided by law.

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

NOTE: This policy reflects Iowa law on competent private instruction and independent private instruction. For additional information, including applicable forms, please visit the “Options for Educational Choice” section of the Iowa Department of Education’s website, located at https://www.educateiowa.gov/pk-12/options-educational-choice.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 299, 299A.
                                        281 I.A.C. 31.

Cross Reference:  501    Student Attendance
                                      502    Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      504    Student Activities
                                      507.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates                                                                                                  
                                      604.7  Dual Enrollment
                                      604.9  Home School Assistance Program

Approved:  Sep. 21, 1992, Nov 17, 2014, Sep 21, 2015, May 18, 2020     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, Jul 27, 2015, April 13, 2020      
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014, Jul 27, 2015

The board's primary responsibility in the management of the school district is the operation and delivery of the regular education program.  Generally, students attending the school district will receive the regular education program offered by the district.  Only in exceptional circumstances will the board approve students receiving individualized instruction at the expense of the school district.

Recommendations from the superintendent for individualized instruction will state the need for the instruction, the objectives and goals sought for the instruction, the employee requirements for the instruction, the implementation procedures for the instruction and the evaluation procedures and processes that will be used to assess the value of the instruction.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for individualized instruction.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.11; 279.8, .10, .11; 280.3, .14; 299.1-.6, .11, .15
                                      .24;299A (2013).

Cross Reference:  501.12 Pregnant Students
                                      604.1   Competent Private Instruction

Approved:  Nov. 10, 1997, Nov 17, 2014, August 17, 2020    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, July 20, 2020     
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014                          

The board recognizes some students require programming beyond the regular education program.  The board will identify students with special abilities and provide education programming.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a talented and gifted program which provides for identifying students, for program evaluation, and for training of employees.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 257.42-.49 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.5(12); 59.

Cross Reference:  505    Student Scholastic Achievement
                                      604.6 Instruction at a Post-Secondary Education Institution

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014, August 17, 2020     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, July 20, 2020      
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014                           

The board recognizes some students require additional assistance in order to graduate from the regular education program.  The board will provide a plan to encourage and provide an opportunity for at-risk students to achieve their potential and obtain their high school diploma.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a plan for students at-risk which provides for identifying students, for program evaluation, and for the training of employees.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 257.38-.41; 280.19, .19A (2013).?
                                      281  I.A.C. 12.5(13); 33; 65.

Cross Reference:  505    Student Scholastic Achievement
                                      607.1  Student Guidance and Counseling Program

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014, January 25, 2021     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, Nov. 16, 2020     
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014                       

Parents who wish to have their child excluded from a school program because of religious beliefs must inform the superintendent.  The board authorizes the administration to allow the exclusion if it is not disruptive to the education program and it does not infringe on a compelling state or educational interest.  Further, the exclusion must not interfere with other school district operations. Students who are allowed to be excluded from a program or activity which violates their religious beliefs are required to do an alternate supervised activity or study.

In notifying the superintendent, the parents shall abide by the following:

• The notice will be in writing;

• The objection will be based on religious beliefs;

• The objection will state which activities or studies violate their religious beliefs;

• The objection will state why these activities or studies violate their religious beliefs; and

• The objection will state a proposed alternate activity or study.

The superintendent will have discretion to make this determination.  The factors the superintendent will consider when a student requests to be excluded from a program or activity because of religious beliefs include, but are not limited to, staff available to supervise a student who wishes to be excluded, space to house the student while the student is excluded, available superintendent-approved alternative course of study or activity while the student is excluded, number of students who wish to be excluded, whether allowing the exclusion places the school in a position of supporting a particular religion, and whether the program or activity is required for promotion to the next grade level or for graduation.

Legal Reference:  U.S. Const. amend. I.
                                       Lee v. Weisman, 112 S. Ct. 2649 (1992).
                                       Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602 (1971).
                                       Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County,
                                       608 F. Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985).
                                       Iowa Code §§ 256.11(6); 279.8. (2013).

Cross Reference:  603    Instructional Curriculum
                                      606.2 School Ceremonies and Observances

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Nov 17, 2014, January 25, 2021     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jun 18, 2012, Sep 22, 2014; Nov. 16, 2020     
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014, Nov. 16, 2020     

In accordance with this policy, students in grades nine through twelve may receive academic or career and technical education credits that count toward the graduation requirements set out by the board for courses successfully completed in post-secondary educational institutions.  Students and parents or guardians shall be made aware of the post-secondary instructional opportunities as part of the development of each student’s individual career and academic plan as required by law.  The Superintendent or designee is responsible for developing the appropriate forms and procedures for implementing this policy and the following post-secondary educational opportunities:   

Concurrent Enrollment

The board may, in its discretion, enter into a contractual agreement with a community college to provide courses for eligible students in grades nine through twelve when comparable courses are not offered by the school district.  Notice of the availability of the concurrent enrollment program shall be included in the school district’s registration handbook, and the handbook shall identify which courses, if successfully completed, generate post-secondary credit.  Students shall not be charged tuition for concurrent enrollment courses and shall not be required to reimburse the school district for tuition if they do not successfully complete a course. Students or their parents or guardians may be required to pay a fee consistent with the school district’s established textbook policy and other materials for the concurrent enrollment course to the extent permitted by law.  Students or their parents or guardians may also be required to provide their own transportation to and from concurrent enrollment courses to the extent permitted by law.  However, transportation shall be the responsibility of the school district for any contracted course that is used to meet school district accreditation requirements.

Students who successfully complete a concurrent enrollment course, as determined by the postsecondary institution, shall receive postsecondary credit in accordance with the institution’s policies and high school credit that will be reflected on their high school transcript.  The Superintendent or designee shall grant to a student who successfully completes a concurrent enrollment course a unit of high school graduation credit for every unit of high school level instruction successfully completed.  

Post-Secondary Enrollment Option

Ninth and tenth grade students who have been identified by the school district as gifted and talented, and eligible eleventh and twelfth grade students, may utilize the Post-Secondary Enrollment Option (“PSEO”) program.  To qualify, a course must be a nonsectarian, credit-bearing course that leads to a degree, and in the areas of:  mathematics, science, social sciences, humanities, career and technical education.  A course is not eligible for PSEO if a comparable course is offered by the school district.  In addition, courses at a community college with which the district has a concurrent enrollment agreement are not eligible for PSEO.  Students shall not be charged for tuition, textbooks, materials, or fees related to a PSEO course with the exception of equipment that becomes the property of the student. 

The school district shall reimburse the post-secondary institution for tuition and other expenses for each PSEO course up to $250.  Students who successfully complete a PSEO course, as determined by the postsecondary institution, shall receive postsecondary credit and high school credit.  The Superintendent or designee shall grant to a student who successfully completes a PSEO course a unit of high school graduation credit for every unit of high school level instruction successfully completed.

Transportation to and from the postsecondary institution is the responsibility of the student or parent or legal guardian of the student enrolled in a PSEO course.  Eligible students may take up to seven hours of post-secondary credit during the summer months and receive high school credit upon successful completion of a post-secondary course.  However, the student or student’s parent or legal guardian are responsible for all costs associated with courses taken during the summer.   

Students who fail a PSEO course and fail to receive credit are required to reimburse the school district for all costs directly related to the course up to the $250.00 reimbursement maximum.  Prior to registering, students under the age of eighteen are required to have a parent or guardian sign a form indicating that the parent is responsible for the costs of the course should the student fail the course and fail to receive credit.  Reimbursement waivers may be granted by the board if sufficient verification is provided to show that the student was unable to complete the course for reasons outside the student’s control, including but not limited to physical incapacity, a death in the student’s immediate family, or a move out of the school district.   

If a student is unable to demonstrate proficiency or the school district or accredited nonpublic school determines that the course unit completed by the student does not meet the school district’s standards, the superintendent shall provide in writing to the student’s parent or guardian the reason for the denial of credit.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.11, .11A; 261E.6, E.7; 279.8; 280.3, .14 (2013).
                                        281 I.A.C. 12, 22.

Cross Reference:  505         Student Scholastic Achievement
                                        604.3      Program for Talented and Gifted Students

Approved: Jan. 15, 2018, February 28, 2019, January 25, 2021                                                                         
Reviewed: Dec. 19, 2017, Jan. 21, 2019, Nov. 16, 2020                          
Revised:    Dec. 19, 2017, Jan. 21, 2019  

The parent, guardian, or custodian of a student receiving competent private instruction may also enroll the student in the school district in accordance with state law and policy.  The student is considered under dual enrollment.  The parent, guardian, or custodian requesting dual enrollment for the student should notify the board secretary no later than September 15 of the school year in which dual enrollment is sought on forms provided by the school district.  On the form, they will indicate the extracurricular and academic activities in which the student is interested in participating.  The forms are available at the central administration office.

A dual enrollment student is eligible to participate in the school district's extracurricular and academic activities in the same manner as other students enrolled in the school district.  The policies and administrative rules of the school district will apply to the dual enrollment students in the same manner as the other students enrolled the school district.  These policies and administrative rules will include, but not be limited to, athletic eligibility requirements, the good conduct rule, academic eligibility requirements, and payment of applicable fees.

A dual enrollment student whose parent, guardian, or custodian has chosen standardized testing as the form of the student's annual assessment will not be responsible for the cost of the test or the administration of the test.

After the student notifies the school district which activities in which they wish to participate, the school district will provide information regarding the specific programs.

The applicable legal requirements for dual enrollment including, but not limited to those related to reporting and eligibility, shall be followed. It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

NOTE: This policy reflects Iowa’s dual enrollment law.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8, 299A
                                       281 I.A.C. 31.

Cross Reference:  502     Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                      503     Student Discipline
                                      504     Student Activities
                                      507     Student Health and Well-Being
                                      604.1  Private Instruction
                                      604.9  Home School Assistance Program

Approved:  Sep. 21, 1992, Nov 17, 2014, Sep 21, 2015, January 25, 2021         
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, Jul 27, 2015, Nov. 16, 2020      
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014, Jul 27, 2015, Nov. 16, 2020      

Foreign students must meet all district entrance requirements including age, place of residence and immunization.  Foreign students must be approved by the board.  The board reserves the right to limit the number of foreign students accepted.  Students who are citizens of a foreign country will be considered residents if they meet one of the following requirements:

•   The student resides with his/her parents(s) or legal guardian;

•   The student is in the United States with appropriate documentation (Form I-20) from the United States Department of Justice-Immigration and Naturalization Services; or

•   The student is a participant in a recognized foreign exchange program; and the student is physically able to attend school and has provided the school district with such proof, including a current TB test.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).

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

Approved:  Oct. 13, 1997, Nov 17, 2014    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014      
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014

The board, recognizing alternatives to education outside the formal public school system, authorizes the establishment of a home school assistance program. This program will assist students receiving competent private instruction by providing licensed employees of the school district to assist the parent, guardian or legal custodian in the education of the student.

The parent, guardian or legal custodian registering for the home school assistance program will agree to comply with the requirements established by the faculty of the program.

Students registered for the home school assistance program will be counted in the basic enrollment.

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

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 299A (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 31.

Cross Reference:  504     Student Activities
                                      507     Student Health and Well-Being
                                      604.1  Competent Private Instruction
                                      604.7  Dual Enrollment

Approved:  Sep. 12, 1992, Nov 17, 2014, January 25, 2021    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Sep 22, 2014, Nov. 16, 2020      
Revised:  Sep 22, 2014

The board has sole discretion to approve instructional materials for the school district.  This authority is delegated to licensed employees to determine which instructional materials, other than textbooks, will be utilized by and purchased by the school district.

In reviewing current instructional materials for continued use and in selecting additional instructional materials, licensed employees will consider the current and future needs of the school district as well as the changes and the trends in education and society.  It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to report to the board the action taken by licensed employees.

In the case of textbooks, the board will make the final decision after receiving a recommendation from the superintendent.  The criteria stated above for selection of other instructional materials shall apply to the selection of textbooks.  The superintendent may develop another means for the selection of textbooks.  Textbooks will be reviewed as needed and at least every six years.

Education materials given to the school district must meet the criteria established above.  The gift must be received in compliance with board policy.

Note; This is a mandatory policy.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14; 301 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3 (12).

Cross Reference:  208  Ad Hoc Committees
                                      505  Student Scholastic Achievement
                                      602  Curriculum Development
                                      605  Instructional Materials

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Feb 16, 2015, January 25, 2021    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Dec. 13, 2010, Dec 22, 2014, Nov. 16, 2020  
Revised:  June 12, 1989, Nov. 10, 1997, Dec 22, 2014, Nov. 16, 2020                        

Parents and other members of the school district community may view the instructional materials used by the students.  All instructional materials, including teacher's manuals, films, tapes, electronic media, or other supplementary material which will be used in connection with any survey, analysis, or evaluation as part of any federally funded programs must be available for inspection by parents.

The instructional materials must be viewed on school district premises.  Copies may be obtained according to board policy.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding the inspection of instructional materials.

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy and reflects federal law on the subject of parental rights to inspect instructional materials.

Legal Reference:  Goals 2000:  Educate America Act, Pub. L. No. 103-227,
                                       108 Stat. 125 (1994).
                                       Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14; 301 (2013).
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.3(12).

Cross Reference:  602  Curriculum Development
                                      605  Instructional Materials
                                      901  Public Examination of School District Records

Approved:  Oct 10, 1994, Feb 16, 2015, January 25, 2021   
Reviewed:  Aug 24, 2005, Dec 22, 2014, Nov 16, 2020      
Revised:   Dec 22, 2014, Nov 16, 2020      

Members of the school district community may object to the instructional materials utilized in the school district and ask for their use to be reconsidered.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations for reconsideration of instructional materials.

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§279.8; 280.3, .14; 301 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(12).

Cross Reference:  213    Public Participation in Board Meetings
                                      402.5 Public Complaints About Employees
                                      602    Curriculum Development
                                      605    Instructional Materials

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Feb 16, 2015, January 25, 2021     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Dec 22, 2014, Nov. 16, 2020
Revised:  June 8, 1998, Nov. 8, 1999, Sept. 20, 2004, Dec. 13, 2010, Dec 22, 2014, Nov. 16, 2020

The board supports the use of innovative methods and the use of technology in the delivery of the education program.  The board encourages employees to investigate economical ways to utilize multi-media, computers, and other technologies as a part of the curriculum.

It will be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a plan for the use of technology in the curriculum and to evaluate it annually.  The superintendent will report the results of the evaluation and make a recommendation to the board annually regarding the use of technology in the curriculum.

Note: This is a mandatory policy and reflects the educational standards.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(12), 12.5(4), .5(10).

Cross Reference:  602      Curriculum Development
                                      605      Instructional Materials

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Sep 21, 2015, Feb 20, 2017, January 25, 2021   
Reviewed:  Sep. 17, 2007Jul 27, 2015, Dec 7, 2016, Dec 21, 2020       
Revised:   Oct. 8, 2007, Jul 27, 2015, Dec 7, 2016, Dec 21, 2020       

The school district will maintain a school library in each building for use by employees and by students during the school day.

Materials for the centers will be acquired according to board policy, "Instructional Materials Selection."

It is the responsibility of the principal of the building in which the school library is located to oversee the use of materials in the library.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop procedures for the selection and replacement of both library and instructional materials, for the acceptance of gifts, for the weeding of library and instructional materials, and for the handling of challenges to either library or classroom materials.

Note: This is a mandatory policy and reflects the educational standards.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.7(24); 279.8; 280.14; 301 (2013).
                                       281 I.A.C. 12.3(11), (12).

Cross Reference:  602  Curriculum Development
                                       605  Instructional Materials

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Sep 21, 2015, January 25, 2021
Reviewed:  Sep. 17, 2007, April 20, 2012, Jun 18, 2012, Jul 27, 2015, Dec 21, 2020
Revised:   Oct. 8, 2007, Jul 27, 2015, Dec 21, 2020      

Because technology is a vital part of the school district curriculum, the Internet will be made available to employees and students.  Appropriate and equitable use of the Internet will allow employees and students to access resources unavailable through traditional means.

Individual student accounts and electronic mail addresses may be issued to students. The school district may provide all individual students with electronic mail addresses. These addresses, and all resources created at the time the account is created, is owned by the school district. The student or guardian acknowledges the fact that the district owns this and associated resources created in conjunction with the creation of the address. The district owns the right to delete, suspend, reinstate, monitor and login at any time as needed.

The Internet can provide a vast collection of educational resources for students and employees.

It is a global network which makes it impossible to control all available information.  Because information appears, disappears and changes constantly, it is not possible to predict or control what students may locate.  The school district makes no guarantees as to the accuracy of information received on the Internet.  Although students will be under teacher supervision while on the network, it is not possible to constantly monitor individual students and what they are accessing on the network.  Some students might encounter information that may not be of educational value.  Student Internet records and access records are confidential records treated like other student records.   Students’ Internet activities will be monitored by the school district to ensure students are not accessing inappropriate sites that have visual depictions that include obscenity, child pornography or are harmful to minors.  The school district will use technology protection measures to protect students from inappropriate access, including sites that include obscenity, child pornography or are harmful to minors.

The school district will monitor the online activities of students and will educate students about appropriate online behavior, including interacting on social networking sites and chat rooms. Students will also be educated on cyberbullying, including awareness and response. Employees will provide age appropriate training for students who use the Internet. The training provided will be designed to promote the school district’s commitment to:

• The standards and acceptable use of Internet services as set forth in the Internet Safety Policy; Student safety with regard to:
  
  • Safety on the Internet;
  • Appropriate behavior while on online, on social networking Web sites, and
  • In chat rooms; and
  • Cyberbullying awareness and response;
• Compliance with the E-rate requirements of the Children’s Internet Protection Act

Employees and students will be instructed on the appropriate use of the Internet. Parents will be required to sign a permission form to allow their students to access the Internet. Students will sign a form acknowledging they have read and understand the Internet Acceptable Use policy and regulations, that they will comply with the policy and regulations, and that they understand the consequences for violation of the policy or regulations.

In compliance with federal law, this policy will be maintained at least five years beyond the termination of funding under the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) or E-rate.

Legal References:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).

Cross References:  104   Anti-Bullying/Harassment
                                          502   Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                          506   Student Records

Approved:  Dec. 16, 1996, Jun 18, 2012, Sep 21, 2015, January 25, 2021   
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, April 20, 2012, Jun 18, 2012, Jul 27, 2015, Dec 21, 2020      
Revised:  April 20, 2012, Jul 27, 2015, September 18, 2017, Dec 21, 2020       

In order for students to experience a diverse curriculum, the board encourages employees to supplement their regular curricular materials with other resources.  In so doing, the board recognizes that federal law makes it illegal to duplicate copyrighted materials without authorization of the holder of the copyright, except for certain exempt purposes.  Severe penalties may be imposed for plagiarism, unauthorized copying or using of media, including, but not limited to, print, electronic and web-based materials, unless the copying or using conforms to the "fair use" doctrine.  Under the "fair use" doctrine, unauthorized reproduction of copyrighted materials is permissible for such purposes as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship or research providing that all fair use guidelines are met. 

While the school district encourages employees to enrich the learning programs by making proper use of supplementary materials, it is the responsibility of employees to abide by the school district's copying procedures and obey the requirements of the law.  In no circumstances shall it be necessary for school district staff to violate copyright requirements in order to perform their duties properly.  The school district will not be responsible for any violations of the copyright law by employees or students.  Violation of the copyright law by employees may result in discipline up to, and including, termination.  Violation of the copyright law by students may result in discipline, up to and including, suspension or expulsion.

Parents or others who wish to record, by any means, school programs or other activities need to realize that even though the school district received permission to perform a copyrighted work does not mean outsiders can copy it and re-play it.  Those who wish to do so should contact the employee in charge of the activity to determine what the process is to ensure the copyright law is followed.  The school district is not responsible for outsiders violating the copyright law or this policy.

Any employee or student who is uncertain as to whether reproducing or using copyrighted material complies with the school district's procedures or is permissible under the law should contact the principal, teacher or teacher-librarian who will also assist employees and students in obtaining proper authorization to copy or use protected material when such authorization is required.

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

Note: This is a mandatory policy. The policy is based upon federal law.

Legal References:  17 U.S.C. § 101 et al. (2012)
                                        281 I.A.C. 12.3(12).

Cross References:  605.6    Internet Acceptable Use

Approved:  Feb. 10, 2003, Sep 21, 2015, January 25, 2021    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, Dec 21, 2020
Revised:  Jul 27, 2015, September 18, 2017, Dec 21, 2020      

The Internet provides a valuable learning tool for students and staff and offers another communications vehicle for informing the public about school programs and activities. The board authorizes the establishment of (a school district web page, individual attendance center web pages, special program web pages). Only those web pages approved by the IT Director and Superintendent and maintained in accordance with board policy and administrative procedures will be recognized as official representations of the school district.

The superintendent is responsible for assigning an individual responsible for maintaining the web pages. The superintendent, in conjunction with the responsible individual, will develop administrative procedures regarding the web site.

Legal References:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2001).

Cross References:  502       Student Rights and Responsibilities
                                         605       Student Records
                                         605.5    Media Centers

Approved: Feb 10, 2003, January 25, 2021
Reviewed: Aug 24, 2005, Dec 21, 2020
Revised: September 18, 2017 

The district will carefully safeguard the right of students and employees to learn and teach in a respectful environment regardless of the method. All instruction and communication through online learning platforms should be appropriate to the age and ability of the participants. Students and employees should be aware that online platforms may be monitored by the district. Verbal and written communication occurring on these platforms may be recorded and stored by the district in accordance with applicable laws.

Approved:
Reviewed: July 27, 2020
Revised:

The scope and size of the staff will be adequate to provide the best possible education according to class size.  The size of each class will depend upon the type of instruction needed to assist each student to develop academic and occupational capacities to the utmost. Effective staff utilization will also be considered in organizing and scheduling classroom instruction.

The recommended class size for each level of instruction should be:

1. Primary grades (K-3) should strive to maintain a range of 20-24 students to every one teacher for instruction.

2. All other grades (4-12) should not exceed 30 students per class with class range from 25-30 for conventional academic classes.

3. In Middle and High School the average total number of students per teacher per day should not exceed 30 per class. (Exception may occur in classes such as physical education, band, choir, etc.)

4. In cases where a heavy concentration of pupils occurs, an occasional class size may be above the suggested recommendation for a temporary time.

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

Cross Reference:  606.6 Insufficient Classroom Space

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, March 16, 2020    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, October 21, 2019
Revised:  Oct. 9, 2000, Jan. 20, 2020      

The school district will continue school ceremonies and observances that have become a tradition and a custom of the education program.  These include, but are not limited to, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and observance of holidays, such as Christmas, Halloween and Easter, by programs and performances.  Such ceremonies or observances will have a secular purpose and will not advocate or sponsor a particular religion.

Students who do not wish to participate in these activities may be silent during the ceremony or observance or receive permission from the principal to be excused from the ceremony for religious reasons in compliance with board policy.

Legal Reference:  U.S. Const. amend. I.
                                      Lee v. Weisman, 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992).
                                      Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602, (1971).
                                      Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County,
                                      608 F.Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985).
                                      Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).

Cross Reference:  603    Instructional Curriculum
                                      604.5 Religious-Based Exclusion From A School Program

Approved:  Nov. 10, 1997, March 15, 2021    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, February 15, 2021    
Revised: 

Live animals will not be allowed in school district facilities except under special circumstances and only for an educational purpose.  Permission from the principal will be required of anyone wishing to bring an animal into school district facilities.  Appropriate supervision of animals is required when animals are brought into the school district facilities.

The person bringing the animal must furnish transportation for the animal brought to school.  Animals will not be allowed to travel to and from the student's attendance center on the school bus without prior approval from the principal.

It will be the responsibility of the principal to determine appropriate supervision of animals in the classroom. This policy is not intended to address the use of service animals, assistive animals, therapy animals or emotional support animals on district property.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:  105 Assistance Animals
                                     507 Student Health and Well-Being

Approved:  Nov. 10, 1997, Sep 21, 2015, Aug. 20, 2018, March 15, 2021     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, July 9, 2018, February 15, 2021      
Revised:  Jul 27, 2015, July 9, 2018

Materials and services produced by students at the expense of the school district are the property of the school district.  Materials and services produced by students at the student's expense, except for incidental expense to the school district, are the property of the student.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to determine incidental expense.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).

Cross Reference:  408.2 Licensed Employee Publication or Creation of  Materials

Approved:  Nov. 10, 1997, Sep 21, 2015     
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015      
Revised:  Jul 27, 2015

The principal may authorize field trips and excursions when such events contribute to the achievement of education goals of the school district.  The school district will provide transportation for field trips and excursions within the state.  Field trips and excursions outside of the state that do not meet the four criteria will be made on alternate transportation.  The four criteria are:

1. The operation or trip must be directly connected with and contribute to the educational development of the students;

2. The operation must be sponsored by the school and supervised by the school authorities;

3. The trip must be considered an official school function; and

4. The school district transportation vehicle must be transporting students, teachers and a reasonable number of parents as chaperones.

In authorizing field trips and excursions, the principal will consider the financial condition of the school district, the educational benefit of the activity, the inherent risks or dangers of the activity, and other factors deemed relevant by the superintendent.  Written parental permission will be required prior to the student's participation in field trips and excursions.  The superintendent's approval will be required for field trips and excursions outside the state.  Board approval will be required for field trips and excursions which involve unusual length or expense.

Field trips and excursions are to be arranged with the principal well in advance.  A detailed schedule and budget must be submitted by the employee.  The school district will be responsible for obtaining a substitute teacher if one is needed.  Following field trips and excursions, the teacher may be required to submit a written summary of the event.

Legal Reference:  390 C.F.R. Pt. 390.3(f) (2012).
                                      Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 43.9.

Cross Reference:  503.1 Student Conduct
                                      503.4 Good Conduct Rule
                                      603    Instructional Curriculum
                                      711    Transportation

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, March 15, 2021   
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, February 15, 2021      
Revised:  Sep. 21, 1992            

Insufficient classroom space will be determined on a case-by-case basis.  In making its determination whether insufficient classroom space exists, the board may consider several factors, including but not limited to, the nature of the education program, the grade level, the available licensed employees, the instructional method, the physical space, student-teacher ratios, equipment and materials, facilities either being planned or under construction, facilities planned to be closed, financial condition of the school district and projected to be available, a sharing agreement in force or planned, a bargaining agreement in force, laws or rules governing special education class size, board-adopted school district goals and objectives, and other factors considered relevant by the board.

This policy is reviewed by the board annually.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to bring this policy to the attention of the board each year.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 282.18(13) (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 17.6(3).

Cross Reference:  103      Educational and Operational Planning
                                      501.15 Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Receiving District
                                      606.1   Class Size - Class Grouping

Approved:  June 12, 1989, Sep 21, 2015, March 15, 2021   
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, February 15, 2021      
Revised:  Jul 27, 2015

The Board of Directors recognizes that one of the greatest resources of the school system is to be found in the people of the community who have special knowledge and particular talents to contribute to the school program.  The Board of Directors, therefore, encourages the use of community resources and citizens to assist in furthering the educational program.  Use of outside personnel and resources is under regulations as approved by the superintendent.

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Sep 21, 2015, May 17, 2021    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, April 12, 2021      
Revised:  Jul 27, 2015

In meeting the needs of the students, the board may grant credit to a student that meets the following requirements in this policy.  These requirements will take the place of the standards and curriculum.  Students wishing to receive credit for grade acceleration in the High School will need to start with the approval of the Superintendent and the Curriculum Director. Students may not be required to meet the same High School credits or standards based on criteria that includes:

• Completion of an Associate of Arts Degree
• Acceleration of an entire / whole grade
• Meets the qualifications for Fairfield TAG program

Approved:  June 12, 1989, November 26, 2018        
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, Oct. 15, 2018      
Revised:   Oct. 15, 2018      

Purpose:  The Fairfield Community School District is committed to ensuring the integrity of the information obtained from the use of educational assessments, ensuring security of test content and upholding professional ethics. This policy is intended to apply to all Federal and State mandated assessments, including but not limited to:  Dynamic Learning Maps Alternate Assessment Systems (DLM), English Language Proficiency for the 21st Century (ELPA21), Iowa Statewide Assessments of Student Progress (ISASP), National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), all District designated Early Literacy Assessments (e.g., FAST), and GOLD

This policy is to identify test security practices and administration procedures that align to ESSA and Iowa Code that can ensure assessment results are truly representative of the achievement of students in our district. Everyone who is involved in student testing is responsible for test security.  This includes, but is not limited to district administrators, school administrators, school assessment coordinators, teachers, test administrators (TA), proctors, students, and parents.  It is also our intent to create awareness of the potential negative impact that inappropriate assessment practices might produce, to outline processes to be followed, and to identify the potential consequences of violating the policy. If test scores become questionable because of inappropriate practices in either preparing students or in administering tests, the meaning of the scores will be distorted and their value for their original purpose will be diminished or lost.

Appointment of District Test Coordinators

The district will appoint the Curriculum Director as the District Test Coordinator for each Federal and State assessment, who may in turn delegate responsibility for testing-related functions to one or more Building Test Coordinators. The District Test Coordinator is responsible for developing; rules for storage and/or access of secure materials; rules for administration; rules for monitoring; rules for reporting; and the requirements for protecting student personal information (FERPA).

Materials Handling

Each Federal and State assessment has materials handling procedures specific to the defined assessment.  It is the responsibility of the District Test Coordinator to develop procedures congruent to test type based on the test developer’s or vendor’s test administration manual.  Only personnel identified and authorized in District procedures will have access to the tests or testing system before, during and after the identified testing window. 

Test Preparation

As a function of educating students, staff may prepare students for assessments by providing instruction in the content areas to be assessed. Staff may also prepare students for assessments by teaching general test-taking skills that are applicable to any test or test format.

Staff will only conduct reviews or drills that use the supplied online practice test supplied by testing company or vendor.  Staff will not develop their own “practice” test items to mimic those supplied by the testing company or vendor.

Security Violations:

In the administration of standardized tests, it is a violation of test security to do any of the following:

1. Provide inappropriate test preparation such as any of the following:

a. Copy, screenshot, reproduce, or use in any manner any portion of any secure test, for any reason.

b. Share an actual test instrument in any form.

c. Use test preparation materials or strategies developed specifically for Annual Assessment

D. Scheduling that doesn’t comply with State and/or District guidelines

2. Deviate from the test administration procedures specified in the test examiner’s manual.

3. Provide inappropriate assistance to students during the test administration.

4. Make test answers available to students.

5. Change or fill in answers on student answer documents.

6. Provide inaccurate data on student answer documents.

7. Engage in any practice to artificially raise student scores without actually improving underlying student achievement.

8. Participate in, direct, aid, counsel, assist, encourage, or fail to report any of the acts prohibited in this policy.

Consequences of Policy Violations

If a violation of this policy occurs, as determined by the superintendent following an investigation of allegations of irregularities, the superintendent will determine whether the integrity of the testing program has been jeopardized, whether some or all of the test results are invalidated, and whether a teacher or administrator has violated the Code of Ethics of the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners as found at 282-Iowa Administrative Code chapter 25.

Reports of students cheating on assessments will be submitted to the building principal for investigation and disciplinary procedures.

A staff member found to have committed testing irregularities will be subject to discipline in accordance with law and board policy. If the staff member is a licensee of the Board of Educational Examiners, the superintendent shall make a timely report to that board.

If the superintendent believes that assessment results are invalid, the superintendent will make a timely report to the Iowa Department of Education.

Approved: May 20, 2019      
Reviewed: April 15, 2019
Revised: May 20, 2019      

The board will provide a student guidance and counseling program.  The guidance counselor will be certified with the Iowa Department of Education and hold the qualifications required by the board.  The guidance and counseling program will serve grades kindergarten through twelve.  The program will assist students with their personal, educational, and career development.  The program will be coordinated with the education program and involve licensed employees.

NOTE:  This is a mandated policy and reflects the educational standards.

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code § 280.14; 622.10 (2013).
                                      281 I.A.C. 12.3(11).

Cross Reference:  506    Student Records
                                      603    Instructional Curriculum
                                      604.4 Program for At-Risk Students

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, May 17, 2021    
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, April 12, 2021      
Revised:   June 12, 1989            

Health services is coordinated with the health education and physical education curriculum.  The program is designed to help each student protect, improve and maintain physical, emotional and social well-being.  Areas to be considered include, but are not limited to:

•       Environmental health and safety;
•       Emergency health procedures and responsibilities;
•       Health promotion;
•       Communicable disease prevention and control;
•       Staffing for the school health program;
•       Administering of prescription medication;
•       Acute or chronic health problems;
•       Health assessment and screening;
•       Record keeping; and
•       Program evaluation.

Nurses and other medical employees employed by or requested to conduct services for the board will hold and maintain a current Iowa license and meet the requirements of the Iowa Department of Education if required by the school district.  In addition to the health services provided in the curriculum, the school district will provide the following district-wide health services:

•       Annual vision screening tests;
•       Annual audiometer screening tests;
•       Annual spinal screening;
•       Annual height and weight measurement; and
•       Furnish evidence of immunization for students to the State Board of Health within the first thirty days of the school year.

The services listed above will be provided in conjunction with state public health officials and local hospitals.

Legal Reference:  No Child Left Behind, Title II, Sec. 1061, P.L. 107-110 (2002).
                                           42 U.S.C. §§ 12101 et seq. (2012).
                                           34 C.F.R. pt. 99, 104, 200, 300 et seq. (2012)
                                           29 U.S.C. § 794(a) (2012)
                                           28 C.F.R. 35
                                           20 U.S.C. 1232g § 1400 6301 et seq. (2012).
                                               Iowa Code §§ 22.7, 139A.3. .8, .21; 143.1, 152, 256.7(24), .11, 280.23 (2013).
                                           281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), (7), (11); 12.4(12); 12.8; 41.405.
                                           282 I.A.C. 15.3(14); 22.
                                           641 I.A.C. 7.
                                           655 I.A.C. 6, 6.3(1), 6.3(6), 6.6(1), 7.

Cross Reference:  501.4 Entrance - Admissions
                                      507    Student Health and Well-Being

Approved:  Feb. 11, 1985, Sep 21, 2015, May 18, 2020, May 17, 2021          
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, April 13, 2020, April 12, 2021      
Revised:  June 12, 1989, Jul 27, 2015, April 13, 2020      

To supervise the school facility, there will be a district employee or a person designated by the District available while students wait at the school building after a school activity.

It is the responsibility of the supervisor to ensure that the students and other individuals in the school building have valid and clear purpose for being in the facility at that time.  If there is no valid and clear purpose for the student or other individual to be in the building, the supervisor will require them to leave the school building at once.

The superintendent will develop rules and regulations to implement and enforce this policy.

Approved:  Oct. 12, 1987, Sep 21, 2015, May 17, 2021          
Reviewed:  Aug. 24, 2005, Jul 27, 2015, April 12, 2021      
Revised:  Jul 27, 2015