Series 500 – Students

Policies	Procedures
Series 500:  Student Personnel	Series 500:  Student Personnel
Code Title 500 Guiding Principles 501 Compulsory Attendance 502 Entrance Requirements 503 Attendance 504 Homeless Children and Youth 505 Non-Residents 506 Dress Code 507 School Attendance: Pupil Assignment to Schools 509 Student Transportation 510 Attendance Records 513 Student Records 514 Rights of Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents 515 Student Directory Information 518 Interviewing Students at School by Non-School Personnel 519 Search by School Staff Relating to Students, Protected Student Areas, Lockers, Desks, and Other School Facilities or Spaces 520 School Discipline 521 Weapons 522 Distribution of Materials 523 Zero Fighting 524 Anti-Bullying and Anti-Harrassment 525 Health and Safety 526 Drugs and Alcohol 530 Graduation Ceremonies 531 Class Gifts for Schools 540 Student Organizations 545 Social Events 547 Activities and Events Sponsored by Community/School Associated Groups 550 Lunch Hour 551 Fines, Fees, Charges 552 Student Parking/Use of Vehicles 554 Work Permits 556 Insurance Programs 557 Individual Student Pictures 558 Personal Expenses of Students 559 Student Expenses for Graduation Exercises	Code Title 501 Compulsory Attendance 502 Entrance Requirements 503.4 Attendance–Late Enrollment and Transfers 505 Nonresidents 505.1 Foreign Exchange Student Enrollment 507 School Attendance: Student Assignment to Schools 509 Pupil Transportation 510 Attendance Records 513 Student Records 515 Student Directory Information 518 Interviewing Pupils at School by Nonschool Personnel 519 Search by School Staff Relating to Students, Protected Student Areas, Lockers, Desks, and Other School Facilities or Spaces 520 School Discipline 522 Distribution of Materials 525 Health and Safety 526 Substance Abuse 531 Class Gifts for Schools 540 School Sponsored Student Organizations 545 Social Events 547 Activities and Events Sponsored by Community/School Associated Groups 547.1 Fund Raising 550 Lunch Hour 551 Student Fee Waiver and Reduction Procedures 552 Student Parking/Use of Vehicles 554 Work Permits 556 Insurance Programs 557 Individual Student Pictures 558 Personal Expenses of Students 559 Student Expenses for Graduation Exercises

 

Policies

Series 500
Code 500
Title:  Guiding Principles
The Board of Directors, realizing that schools are compact and diverse communities of students, must establish policies relating to the operation of schools to assure that an orderly school organization results.  The following series of policies has been developed to ensure all attendance centers provide a safe learning environment and operate in an effective, efficient and equitable manner for the benefit of our diverse community of students.

Revised February 4, 1992
Last review:  2005-06
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Series 500
Code 501
Title:  Compulsory Attendance
The parent, guardian or legal or actual custodian of a child who has reached the age of six or is under sixteen years of age by September 15 of that year shall cause the child to attend some public school, an accredited nonpublic school, or competent private instruction in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 299A of the Code of Iowa.

Exceptions shall apply to any child:
Who has completed the requirements for graduation in an accredited school or has obtained a high school equivalency diploma under Chapter 259A of the Iowa Code;
The district will verify that each child covered by this policy is in attendance in appropriate educational programs.

Exceptions shall apply to any child who qualifies for exceptions under the state compulsory attendance laws.  The district shall maintain procedures consistent with Iowa law for compulsory attendance including Iowa Code 299 & 280.

Administrative Procedures: Code 501
Legal reference: Iowa Code §§ 299.1, 299.2, 299.3, 299.4
Revised February 4, 1992; June 15, 1993
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 502
Title:  Entrance Requirements
A student shall not be admitted to kindergarten unless he/she is five years of age on or before the 15th day of September of the current school year, except those identified as needing special education services, who may enter the preschool handicapped program at age 0 through age 7.

A student shall not be admitted to the first grade unless he/she is six years of age on or before the 15th day of September of the current year, except when they are advanced from kindergarten to the first grade as a result of the following process which has been approved by the Iowa Department of Education.

1. On the request of the parents, kindergarten children may be evaluated for advance placement.  School personnel will recommend advance placement only after the Strategies in Early Childhood Preschool Assessment (WAUPUN) has been made.  The school principal may assign a school psychologist to provide additional assessment measures.
2. A staffing team composed of at least a parent, school principal, and the kindergarten teacher will make a recommendation to the Department of Elementary and Early Childhood Programs for advancing a student to the first grade.  Other persons can be included on the staffing team as appropriate.
3. Parents may appeal the decision of the staffing team to the board through the Superintendent of Schools.  The superintendent will study the staffing team reports and make a recommendation to the board about the placement and the board will take official action.
4. Appeal of the board’s decision to the Iowa Department of Education is available under Chapter 290 of the Code of Iowa.

All students, upon entering the Des Moines Independent Community School District shall present a birth certificate or other satisfactory evidence of age.

Revised January 19, 1993; February 10, 2003
Last Review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 503
Title:  Attendance

ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL

Daily, punctual attendance is an integral part of the learning experience and is required of all students to receive the maximum benefit of the educational program.  Students are expected to attend classes regularly and to be on time.

There is a strong correlation between good attendance and academic success.  Students who receive excessive excused absences can expect that their learning will be affected even though work may be made up. Anytime students, parents/guardians, teachers and/or administrators are concerned about a student’s attendance, they are encouraged to contact the appropriate party.

Certain absences may be excused under this policy, but students will still be required to make up work missed due to an absence regardless of whether it is excused or unexcused.

Subject to the provisions of this policy and any corresponding administrative procedures, students shall not be absent more than five days due to an unexcused absence per semester or more than three days due to an unexcused absence per trimester. Buildings shall establish and implement a notification and support plan regarding unexcused absences beginning with the student’s second unexcused absence. Excessive absences are defined as more than five unexcused absences per semester or three unexcused absences per trimester. Excessive absences in a class may result in a review by the school’s Building Attendance Team and may result in a supportive intervention or disciplinary action under this policy.

This policy shall apply to all students including special education students except in those cases where decisions involve a special education student’s evaluation or placement. Such cases shall be referred to the special education department for disposition through established hearing procedures.

A. Attendance
In accordance with Iowa law, it is the parent’s responsibility to cause the child to attend school (Code of Iowa, Chapter 299). Excessive loss of instruction time due to late arrivals or early withdrawals may result in the student being referred to the Building Attendance Team.

B. Absence
Parent(s)/guardian(s) are expected to notify the school regarding a student’s absence on the day of the absence.  An absence must be reported within 24 hours of the date of absence.  Failure to report the absence within 24 hours of the date of absence will result in the absence being recorded as unexcused unless the parent(s)/guardian(s) demonstrates there was a hardship that prevented him or her from reporting.  If requested, the parent(s)/guardian(s) of students who are absent from school shall submit in writing the specific reasons for their absence.  Such notice shall include the specific days or times they were absent, verification by a health care provider (when appropriate), and a signature of a parent/guardian.

C. Excused Absence
Students are encouraged to attend school daily.  However, students may not be subject to disciplinary action for failure to attend school if lack of attendance is beyond the control of the student. A student may be excused by a parent for one of the following reasons:

1. Illness;
2. Medically documented chronic or extended illness, hospitalization, or doctor’s care, or nurse’s approval;
3. Medical or dental care;
4. Death or serious illness in the immediate family or household;
5. Suspension from school;
6. Religious holidays requiring absence from school;
7. Court appearances or other legal proceedings beyond the control of the family;
8. Classes missed because of attendance at a school-sponsored trip or activity;

D. Unexcused Absence
An absent student not meeting the provisions required to have an excused absence will have an unexcused absence.  An unexcused absence is a student’s absence from school or class that does not fall within the above stated reasons.  Students may have five unexcused absences per semester or three unexcused absences per trimester. The sixth unexcused absence of the semester or the fourth unexcused absence of the trimester will be considered excessive and an intervention will occur. However, buildings shall establish and implement a notification and support plan regarding unexcused absences beginning with the student’s second unexcused absence.

E. Make-up Work

School work missed because of absence must be made up.  Students will be given two days for each day missed to make up work.  Make up time may not exceed six school days following the student’s return.  The time allowed for makeup work may be extended at the discretion of the classroom teacher.  Full credit will be given for school work made up because of absences.

F. Excessive Absences

1. Excessive absence is any unexcusedabsence beyond the district limit of five allowable unexcused absences per semester or three unexcused absences per trimester.

2. If a student’s excused absences become excessive each student’s case will be reviewed for consideration of a supportive intervention. Absenceswill be recorded as part of a student’s attendance record. Interventions include but are not limited to the following:

1. Excessive absence is any unexcused absence beyond the district limit of five allowable unexcused absences per semester or three unexcused absences per trimester.
2. If a students’ excused absences become excessive each student’s case will be reviewed for consideration of a supportive intervention. Absences will be recorded as part of a student’s attendance record.
3. Interventions include but are not limited to the following:
   1. A student may be referred to, the SUCCESS case manager, nurse, a social worker, a counselor, and/or a teacher advocate for assistance;
   2. The student may be referred to the school’s support team for a targeted intervention;
   3. The student may be allowed to make up absences through an agreement whereby the student agrees to perform specified school assignments outside of the student’s regular school day;
   4. The student’s schedule may be modified and an adult mentor assigned;
   5. The student my be assigned to an in-building alternative educational program to receive additional academic
   6. A recommendation for retention may be made to the Building Attendance Team.
4. The principal or designee may refer the student to the Polk County Attorney Mediation Center.
5. Class work missed because of excessive absences can be made up and will be treated the same as make-up work for all other absences.

G. Tardiness

Excessive tardies shall be dealt with pursuant to the district’s Discipline Code and Procedures.

HIGH SCHOOL

Daily, punctual attendance is an integral part of the learning experience and is required of all students to receive the maximum benefit of the educational program.  Students are expected to attend classes regularly and to be on time.

There is a strong correlation between good attendance and successful completion of high school courses.  Students who receive excessive excused absences can expect that their learning will be affected even though work may be made up. Anytime students, parents/guardians, teachers and/or administrators are concerned about a student’s attendance, they are encouraged to contact the appropriate party.

Certain absences may be excused under this policy, but students will still be required to make up work missed due to an absence.

Subject to the provisions of this policy and any corresponding administrative procedures, students shall not be absent more than five days due to an unexcused absence per semester. Excessive absences are defined as more than five unexcused absences per semester or chronic excused absences. Buildings shall establish and implement a notification and support plan regarding unexcused absences beginning with the student’s second unexcused absence. Excessive absences in a class may result in a review by the school’s Building Attendance Team and may result in a supportive intervention or disciplinary action under this policy.

This policy shall apply to all students including special education students except in those cases where decisions involve a special education student’s evaluation or placement.  Such cases shall be referred to the special education department for disposition through established hearing procedures.

A. Attendance
In accordance with Iowa law, it is the parent’s responsibility to cause the child to attend school (Code of Iowa, Chapter 299). Excessive loss of instruction time due to late arrivals or early withdrawals may result in the student being referred to the Building Attendance Team.

B. Absence
Parent(s)/guardian(s) are expected to notify the school regarding a student’s absence on the day of the absence.  An absence must be reported within 24 hours of the date of absence. Failure to report the absence within 24 hours of the date of absence will result in the absence being recorded as unexcused unless the parent(s)/guardian(s) demonstrates there was a hardship that prevented him or her from reporting.

If requested, students who are absent from school shall submit in writing the specific reasons for their absence.  Such notice shall include the specific days or times they were absent, verification by a health care provider (when appropriate), and a signature of a parent/guardian.  If a student is 18 years of age or older or is otherwise emancipated and not living with a parent or guardian, the student may present evidence of an excused absence without parent verification.

C. Excused Absence
Students are encouraged to attend school daily.  However, students may not be subject to disciplinary action for failure to attend school if lack of attendance is beyond the control of the student.  A student may be excused by a parent/guardian for the following reasons:

1. Illness;
2. Medically documented chronic or extended illness, hospitalization, or doctor’s care, or nurse’s approval;
3. Medical or dental care;
4. Death or serious illness in the immediate family or household;
5. Suspension from school;
6. Religious holidays requiring absence from school;
7. Court appearances or other legal proceedings beyond the control of the family;
8. Classes missed because of attendance at a school-sponsored trip or activity;
9. Visits to college
   - 11th grade-two days per semester
   - 12th grade-three days per semester

D. Unexcused Absence
An absent student not meeting the provisions required to have an excused absence will have an unexcused absence.  An unexcused absence is a student’s absence from school or class without a valid reason.  Students may have five unexcused absences per semester. The sixth unexcused absence will be considered excessive and an intervention will occur. However, buildings shall establish and implement a notification and support plan regarding unexcused absences beginning with the student’s second unexcused absence.

E. Make-up Work

Schoolwork missed because of an absence must be made up.  Students will be given two days for each day missed to make up work.  Make up time may not exceed six school days following the student’s return.  The time allowed for makeup work may be extended at the discretion of the classroom teacher.  Full credit will be given for schoolwork made up because of absences. However, the failure to make-up assignments satisfactorily within the requisite time frame may negatively affect a student’s grade.

F. Excessive Absences

1. Excessive absence is any unexcused absence beyond the district limit of five unexcused absences per semester.
2. Once a sixth unexcused absence has occurred, the student’s case will be reviewed for consideration of a supportive intervention.
3. Absences will be recorded as part of a student’s attendance record. The following interventions may be taken in dealing with high school students who have excessive absences:
   1. A student may be referred to, the SUCCESS case manager, nurse, a social worker, a counselor, and/or a teacher advocate for assistance;
   2. The student may be referred to the school’s support team for a targeted intervention;
   3. The student may be allowed to make up absences through an agreement whereby the student agrees to perform specified school assignments outside the student’s regular school day;
   4. The student’s schedule may be modified and an adult mentor assigned;
   5. The student may be assigned to an in-building alternative educational program to receive additional academic support;
   6. Prior to the student’s reassignment, parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be notified in writing of their right to appeal.
4. Class work missed because of excessive absences can be made up and will be treated the same as make-up work for all other absences.5. If a student has seven or more unexcused absences in a class, and only if appropriate intervention strategies have been implemented and have not been successful, the student will be dropped from that class and shall not receive credit for the class.6.The principal or designee may refer the student to the Polk County Attorney Mediation Center

G. Tardiness

Excessive tardies shall be dealt with pursuant to the district’s Discipline Code and Procedures.

H. Appeals
Sanctions are subject to appeal upon request of the student or parent/guardian.

1. Building Appeals Committee
   1. Students or parents/guardians seeking to review a decision regarding truancy, absence, tardiness, or make-up work under this policy must file a written or oral request for appeal with the attendance office within four school days of receipt of notification of the violation or decision.  The appeal request may include the reasons why the appeal is requested and any information that the parent/guardian or student wishes to be considered in the appeal.
   2. If the student or parent/guardian files an appeal, the student will remain in the class pending the completion of the appeal process.
   3. The appeals may be heard by one or more of the following: a vice principal, certificated attendance personnel or a counselor. (Additional resource personnel may be requested by any party: school nurse, teacher, social worker, psychologist, etc.
   4. Parents/guardians shall be informed of their right to address the appeal committee before any sanction is administered.
   5. The appeals committee will consider whether the student’s conduct or absence should be excused under this policy.  The committee will consider:
      1. attendance history of the student;
      2. extenuating or other circumstances as documented in the student’s records or in the written request for an appeal;
      3. educational alternatives to removal from class or school; and
      4. the total educational program for each individual student.
   6. The appeals hearing will be held within five school days after the appeal is filed. Committee response to the appeal will be issued the following school day.
2. Appeal to the Principal/Designee
   Students or parent(s)/guardian(s) may request review of the building appeals committee’s decision regarding sanctions rendered under this absence rule may do so by filing a written or oral request for review with the principal within five days after the committee’s decision.  The principal will determine an agreeable time, place, and date for the review and notify the student and parent/guardian.  At the conclusion of the review, the principal shall affirm, reverse, or modify the committee’s decision.
3. Appeal to the Superintendent/Designee
   Students or parent(s)/guardian(s) may request a review of a building principal’s written decision under this policy by filing a written request for review with the superintendent within five days of the principal’s decision.  The superintendent or designee, in conjunction with the parent/guardian, will attempt to determine an agreeable time, place, and date for the review and notify the interested persons accordingly.  At the conclusion of the review, the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee shall affirm, reverse, or modify the principal’s decision.
   
4. Appeal to the Board of Directors
   Students or parent(s)/guardian(s) may appeal the superintendent’s decision by filing a written request for review with the secretary of the Board of Directors within five days of the superintendent’s decision.  The secretary will set the time, place, and date for the review and notify the interested persons accordingly.  At the conclusion of the review, the board may affirm, reverse, or modify the superintendent’s decision.
   
5. Appeal to the State Board of Education
   Students or parent(s)/guardian(s) may appeal the Board of Directors’ decision by submitting an affidavit of appeal to the State Board of Education within 30 days after the decision of the Board of Directors.

Administrative Procedures: Code 503.4
Legal reference: Iowa Code Sections 280.3, 294.4 and Chapters 256B, 282, 299 (2001)
Revised July 2010
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Series 500
Code 504
Title:  Homeless Children and Youth
The district shall appoint a Homeless Coordinator to make reasonable efforts to locate and identify homeless children and youth of school age within the district, encourage their enrollment and to eliminate existing barriers to their receiving education which may exist in district policies or practices.

Administrative Procedures: Code 504
Legal reference:  42 U.S.C. 11431 et seq.: 281 I.A.C. Ch. 33
Adopted: January 3, 1995; revised February 7, 2006; February 20, 2007
Last review:  2006-07
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Series 500
Code 505
Title:  Non-Residents
Non-resident children shall be charged the maximum tuition as determined by the state comptroller unless the non-resident child has been approved by the Board of Directors through the open enrollment process or there is a tuition agreement between Des Moines Public Schools and the child’s resident district.  The tuition rate to be charged shall be obtained from the Director of the Iowa Department of Education prior to September 1 for the ensuing school year.

See Policy Code 639:  Open Enrollment
Administrative Procedures:  Codes 505 and 505.1
Legal reference:  Iowa Code 442.9, 282.24, 282.1 (1995)
Revised: February 4, 1992; February 20, 2007
Last review:  2006-07
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Series 500
Code 506
Title: Dress Code
The board believes that a dress code policy will help enhance the learning environment of our schools. Inappropriate student appearance can cause a material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, personnel, and visitors on school premises.

Students are expected to adhere to standards of cleanliness and dress that are compatible with the requirements of a good learning environment. Clothing or other apparel promoting products illegal for use by minors and clothing displaying obscene material, profanity, or reference to prohibited conduct is disallowed.

Building principals, in conjunction with the Superintendent or his or her designee and in collaboration with community stakeholders, may develop dress code requirements regarding this policy.

Adopted July 14, 2009
Last review: 2008-2009
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Series 500
Code 507
Title:  School Attendance:  Student Assignment to Schools
The Board of Directors shall approve the necessary boundaries and attendance areas for the schools of the district, and assign student to the district’s schools to (a) provide the most effective programs; (b) achieve and maintain the desired minority student enrollment levels; (c) utilize school facilities and resources effectively and efficiently; and (d) avoid overcrowding in school facilities.

Legal Reference: § 279.11
Administrative Procedures: Code 507
Revised: February 10, 2003
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 509
Title:  Student Transportation
Students enrolled in an elementary or middle school must live more than two miles from the school designated for attendance to be entitled to transportation.

Students enrolled in a senior high school must live more than three miles from the school designated for attendance to be entitled to transportation.

Transportation shall be provided for students in the following categories:

1. Students who are assigned to special education classes, pre-school through    grade 12, outside their home school attendance area or where there is a need for transportation to their home school attendance center.
2. Students whose health or physical condition is such that they cannot, in the judgment of the Des Moines Public Schools Health Services Department, walk the required distances to school without undue hazard to health.
3. Students who are assigned from the home attendance center to another attendance center for educational programs within the school district.
4. Students who, in the judgment of the Director of Student Services, do not have a safe route to walk to school.
5.  Students approved for within-district open enrollment to a school other than their designated attendance center may request district transportation to the receiving school.  The student and/or parent will be responsible for the cost of transportation services provided.  Approval is subject to the availability of space on an existing bus route as determined by the Associate Superintendent for Management Services or the Associate Superintendent’s designee.

Students who are not eligible for free transportation may pay to ride subject to administrative procedures.

The district will serve as an intermediary between the state of Iowa and the parents of resident nonpublic school students.

Administrative Procedures: Code 509
Revised: March 17, 1992; August 20, 1996 (effective July 1, 1997)
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 510
Title:  Attendance Records
In compliance with state and federal law, attendance and other official student records will be kept at the school level for each student.  The Director of School Improvement and Employee Relations shall serve as the records custodian for the district and ensure that all official student records are maintained in secure environments.

Administrative Procedures:  Code 510
Revised: February 4, 1992; February 18, 1997
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 513
Title:  Student Records
The Department of Student and Family Services shall be responsible for developing and maintaining records for all students.

An accurate record shall be maintained for each student attending the Des Moines Independent Community School District. Student records shall be reasonably accessible to students eighteen years of age or older or, to parents of students under eighteen years of age and dependent students. Educational records shall remain confidential in compliance with federal and state law.

Release of Information: Written consent for disclosure of educational records, including both permanent and cumulative information, shall be signed and dated by the parent or student eighteen years of age or older.  Permission for release may not be general in nature but shall include a specification of the records to be disclosed, the reasons for such disclosure and names of the party or class of parties to whom such records may be disclosed.

Administrative Procedures:  Code 513
Legal reference:   Iowa Code Ch. 22 (1999); 34 C.F.R. Part 99
Revised: February 4, 1992; September 18, 2000; January 17, 20011
Last review:  2005-06
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Series 500
Code 514
Title:  Rights of Custodial and Non-Custodial Parents
The board recognizes the value of providing information to custodial and non-custodial parents regarding the progress of their child in academic and non-academic  areas.

For purposes of this policy, the term “parent” means a parent of student and includes a natural parent, a guardian, or an individual acting as a parent in the absence of a parent or guardian. “Parent” includes custodial and non-custodial parents.  The district will presume that the person who enrolls the student in school is the student’s parent, or person acting as a parent for purposes of the student’s education.  The term “custodial parent” is defined as the person or persons with primary responsibility for the day-to-day care and control of a student.  The term “non-custodial parent” is a person who is a natural parent, an adoptive parent, or guardian who does not presently have primary responsibility for the day-to-day care and control of the student.

It is not the school district’s responsibility to resolve disagreements between custodial and non-custodial parents.  The district will obey all court orders relating to custody issues and parental rights.  Therefore, the rights afforded parents under this policy may be limited in any individual situation.  It shall be the responsibility of a parent requesting any action by the school district relative to the rights of custodial and non-custodial parents to provide the school district with a copy of a court order, decree or other documentation supporting the action requested.

1. Parent Authorizations.  The district presumes that a parent has authority to authorize student involvement in school and school-sponsored activities unless the district has been advised that the parent lacks such authority and is provided appropriate documentation that the parent lacks such authority.
2. Student Records.  Parents shall have the right to inspect and review appropriate student records, including report cards.  Reports and other correspondence from school will be directed to the custodial parent.  Non-custodial parents may receive reports or other correspondence from the school upon written request.
3. Conferences.  Regularly scheduled school conferences will be arranged through the custodial parent.  Non-custodial parents may receive notices or other correspondence relating to the conference upon written request.  Teachers and other school personnel are under no obligation to schedule more than one conference to visit separately with custodial and non-custodial parents regarding a student’s progress, but teachers and other school personnel may elect to do so at their discretion.  Other conferences or meetings between custodial or non-custodial parents and school personnel may be scheduled at the discretion of the school personnel involved.
4. Access to Students During School and School-Related Activities.  Parents, or parents’ designees, may be provided access to their students during school hours or school-related activities only so long as this access does not cause or threaten to cause material and substantial disruption to school or school-related activities.
5. Releasing Students From School.  Parents and others with permission from parents shall be allowed to pick up students from school.  If a non-custodial parent is subject to a court order or other authority restricting his or her access to or custody of the student, it shall be the custodial parent’s responsibility to provide the school district with documentation regarding any restrictions applicable to the non-custodial parent.

Adopted July 31, 1990; revised January 21, 19977
Last review:  2005-06
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Series 500
Code 515
Title:  Student Directory Information
Annually, prior to developing a student directory or to giving student directory information to the public, which may include colleges, universities and military recruiters the district will provide notice to parents/guardians and students eighteen years of age or older of their right to object to the release of student directory information.  If a parent/guardian student eighteen years of age or older files a written objection by the deadline stated in the notice, directory information concerning the student will not be released.

Student directory information includes the student’s name, address, telephone number, e-mail address, date and place of birth, grade level, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities  and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance (entrance date through exit date), degrees and awards received, photographs and likenesses, the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student, and other similar information.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to provide notice to parents/guardians and students eighteen years of age or older of their rights related to this policy.

See also Board Policy Code 513: Student Records; Code 805: Public Records
Legal reference:  20 U.S.C. § 1232g; Iowa Code § 22.7(1); 34 C.F.R Part 99
Adopted: January 21, 1997
Revised: September 18, 2000; January 17, 2001
Last Reviewed: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 518
Title:  Interviewing Students at School by Non-School Personnel
The district will maintain guidelines for interviews of students by non-district personnel at school or on school grounds, or while students are involved in school activities.

Administrative Procedures: Code 518
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 519
Title: Search by School Staff Relating to Students, Protected Student Areas, Lockers, Desks, and Other School Facilities or Spaces
The superintendent shall implement search procedures by school staff relating to students, protected student areas, lockers, desks and other facilities or spaces that are consistent with Iowa Code Chapter 808A.

Last review: 2005-2006
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Series 500
Code 520
Title:  School Discipline
Discipline policies and procedures for elementary students and middle and high schools.

Legal reference: Iowa Code Sections 279.8, 279.9 and 280.21 (2007)
Revisions adopted May 19, 2009
Last review: 2008-09
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Series 500
Code 521
Title:  Weapons
Discipline policies and procedures for elementary students and middle and high school students .

Revisions adopted May 19, 2009
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Series 500
Code 522
Title:  Distribution of Materials
The board recognizes the compulsory nature of education and the mandatory participation requirements that students face as part of the educational process. School-district personnel should exercise caution in determining the types of outside materials presented to students.

Individuals and organizations may be permitted to distribute curricular, extracurricular or non-curricular materials to students. All materials to be distributed by outside entities must be approved by the director of Board and Community Relations or a designee.

1. Curricular and Extracurricular Materials

Corporate/business logos may be used discreetly to recognize participation with or sponsorship of school-district programs or activities or contributions toward school-district facilities or equipment. Teaching materials that discreetly display a corporate logo may be used when the materials contribute in a meaningful way to the educational program of the school, as determined by the teacher and principal.

Products or services that are either illegal for students or prohibited by school-district policy may not be advertised at school-district athletic facilities or district-sponsored athletic events. Neither advertisements nor products or services being advertised may discriminate in regard to age, race, creed, color, sex, marital status, national origin, religion, disability or sexual orientation.

Except for educational materials in classrooms or school libraries, schools may not accept materials that incidentally advertise or promote the use of products or services that are either illegal for students or prohibited by school-district policy.

Student publications may not directly advertise the use of products or services that are either illegal for students or prohibited by school-district policy.

1. Non-curricular Materials

The distribution of non-curricular materials by individuals or nonprofit organizations is permitted under the following circumstances:

• The materials do not cause or encourage a substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school and do not violate a law or any school-district policy.
• The materials do not advertise the sale of a product or service for a profit-making enterprise.
• The materials do not promote products, services or activities that are illegal for students or prohibited by school-district policy.
• The materials do not promote products, services or activities that interfere with the educational mission of the school district.
• The products, services or activities described in the materials are made available to all students in accordance with school-district policies regarding nondiscrimination.
• The entity requesting permission to distribute materials complies with the district’s affirmative-action, nondiscrimination and equal-employment-opportunity policies.

The burden of proof of compliance with the criteria for distribution rests with the entity requesting permission to distribute materials.

Materials that are approved for distribution according to this policy may be made available to students in such time, manner and place as directed by the building principal. The principal may set reasonable limits to the number of approved materials made available to students.

All materials must clearly identify the entity distributing and sponsoring the materials or activities, including the name of the entity, contact person, telephone number, address of the entity and, if available, e-mail address.

Except as otherwise provided, this policy does not apply to school-sponsored student publications.

Career and postsecondary educational materials made available to students through career and guidance offices are exempt from the provisions of this policy.

District television and radio broadcasts are exempt from the provisions of this policy.

Administrative Procedures: Code 522
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 Jersev v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).; Tinker v. Des Moines Ind. Comm. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503; (1969).; Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).; Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.22 (1995).
Adopted: September 18, 2000 (combined 522 and 869)
Board Approved: May 15, 2001
Last Review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 523
Title:  Zero Fighting
See the discipline policies and procedures for elementary students and middle/high students.

Revisions adopted May 19, 2009
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Series 500
Code 524
Title: Anti-Bullying and Anti-Harassment
Nondiscrimination.  No student in the Des Moines Independent Community School District shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in the District programs on the basis of race, color, creed, sex, religion, marital status, ethnic background, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or socio-economic background.  The policy of the district shall be to provide educational programs and opportunities for students as needed on the basis of individual needs, interests, abilities, and potential.

Harassment and Bullying Prohibited.  Harassment and bullying of students is against federal and state law, and against the policy of the District.  The District is committed to maintaining an educational environment free of any form of bullying or harassment by or toward students, parents/guardians, employees, and volunteers while in school, at a school sponsored activity or at any school sponsored function. The District prohibits harassment or bullying based on the students actual or perceived trait or characteristic, including but not limited to the student’s actual or perceived race, color, creed, sex, age, religion, marital or familial status, ethnic background, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental ability or disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attribute, political party preference, political belief, or socio-economic background or familial status.  Acts of harassment or bullying may be treated as grounds for discipline.  Discipline may include suspension or expulsion of a student, termination of an employee, and exclusion of a volunteer from District activities or school premises.

Harassment and Bullying Defined.  Any communication toward a student including electronic (such as emails or instant messages), telephonic, written or verbal communication, or any physical act or conduct that is based on an actual or perceived trait or characteristic that creates or could reasonably be expected to create an objectively hostile school environment is prohibited.  An objectively hostile schoolenvironment is created if the act or conduct

• places the student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or property; or
• has a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s physical or mental health; or
• has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s academic performance; or
• has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the District services, activities, or privileges.

Examples of prohibited behavior may include but are not limited to the following:

• unwelcome touching;
• inappropriate or demeaning remarks, jokes, stories, activities, symbols, signs or posters;
• implied or explicit threats concerning grades, awards, property or opportunities;
• requiring explicitly or implicitly that a student submit to harassment or bullying as a term or condition of the student’s participation in any educational program or activity.

Sexual Harassment Defined.  The District is committed to maintaining an educational environment free of any form of sexual harassment.  All employees, volunteers, and students must avoid any action or conduct which could reasonably be perceived as sexual harassment.  It shall be a violation of this policy for any person to harass a student through conduct or communications of a sexual nature as defined by this policy. Sexual harassment shall consist of unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual acts or favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

• submission to such conduct is made explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of the student’s educational opportunities or benefits; or
• submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as the basis for educational decisions affecting that student; or
• such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education by creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.

Sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to the following:

• requests or pressure for sexual activity
• unwelcome touching
• other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, such as inappropriate jokes, symbols, signs or posters of a sexual naturerepeated remarks to or about a person with sexual or demeaning implications

(Note:  any sexual overtures made by a staff member to a student whether welcome or unwelcome, shall be grounds for discipline, including termination.  See Administrative Procedures for Board Policy Manual Series 400, Code 407.)

Complaint Procedures: Any person alleging a violation of this policy may file a complaint using the Complaint Procedures of Series 400, Code 407 which is also described in the Employee Handbook.  Employees who are aware of harassment or bullying shall file a written complaint or shall report the conduct to a principal or to the District Compliance Officer/Title IX Coordinator at 242-7837.  The complainant may bypass any step of the complaint procedure where the person against whom the complaint is to be lodged is the alleged perpetrator.  Series 400, Code 407 shall govern the investigation of alleged cases of physical or sexual abuse, including sexual harassment, of students by staff members.

The complainant may be required to complete a written form and to turn over copies of evidence of discrimination, harassment or bullying including, but not limited to, letters, emails, tapes, signs and pictures. The investigator shall promptly begin an investigation and proceed to completion.  Both the complainant and alleged perpetrator will be given an opportunity to give a statement.  District employees, students, parents, and volunteers shall fully and fairly cooperate in the investigation.  A written investigate report shall be completed, and a summary of the report, including a finding that the complaint was founded, unfounded, or inconclusive will be forwarded to the complainant, to the parent or guardian, and to the alleged perpetrator.  The investigator will consider the totality of the circumstances presented in determining whether the conduct objectively constitutes discrimination or harassment.

The right to confidentiality, of both the complainant and the accused, will be respected consistent with the District’s legal obligations, and with the necessity to investigate the allegations of misconduct and to take corrective action when this conduct has occurred.

No Retaliation.  No person shall retaliate against a student or other person because the student or other person has filed a discrimination or harassment complaint, assisted or participated in an investigation, or has opposed language or conduct that violates this policy, as long as the participation or action was done in good faith.  Persons who engage in retaliation or who knowingly file false complaints or give false statements in an investigation shall be subject to discipline up to and including suspension, expulsion, or termination of employment.

Corrective Action.  The District will take action to halt any improper discrimination, harassment or bullying and will take other appropriate corrective actions, including disciplinary measures which may include discharge, suspension, expulsion, or exclusion of a perpetrator to remedy all violations of this policy.

Notification.  Notice of this policy shall be communicated to staff, students, and parents of the District and to the District Community.  It shall be included in handbooks including those for students, staff and volunteers, on the District’s website, and shall be published in any such manner as deemed appropriate.

Training.  The District shall educate staff, parents, and students about harassment and bullying, effective methods of prevention, and what to do in the event of such actions.  The District shall participate in assessments of the effectiveness of this policy and education programs and shall make reports as required.

Other Agencies.  Students, parents, and employees may also contact the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, the Des Moines Human Rights Commission, the Region VII Office for Civil Rights within the United States Department of Education, in Kansas City, Missouri, or the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission in Milwaukee, Wisconsin for assistance.

Revised: August 21, 2007
Legal References:
Iowa Code Sections 216.9, 280.3, (2007)
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)
Title IX of the Education  Amendments of 1972, 42 U.S.C. 2000c et seq.
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. 2000d et. seq.
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S.C. 794        Return to Series 500 Index

Series 500
Code 525
Title:  Health and Safety

The District recognizes and supports the need for proper health and safety practices.  Appropriate personnel shall adhere to medication practices that meet safety standards and comply with current legal mandates.  Procedures and practices shall include maintenance of written medication administration records and medication supplies in the original labeled containers.

Administrative Procedures:  Code 525
Revised June 5, 2011
Last review:  2011
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Series 500
Code 526
Title:  Drugs and Alcohol
The board endorses a drug and alcohol educational program with components of prevention, identification, and intervention, including provisions for supportive services.

Administrative Procedures: Code 526
Adopted November 17, 1987
Last review:  2005-06
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Series 500
Code 530
Title: Graduation Ceremonies
The district serves a diverse student population and attempts to elicit the support of a general public characterized by a wide variety of political, religious, ethnic, and social groups, as well as divergent value systems.  Because the public schools are open to all, it is particularly important that they recognize and respect such diversity and avoid undue infringement upon individual preferences and individual differences.  Those who plan and participate in ceremonies sponsored by the district should therefore be sensitive to the diversity of those in attendance.

Commencement

1. Ceremonial introductions, expressions and conclusions aid the solemnity of the occasion and may include songs, poems, famous quotations, the Pledge of Allegiance, moments of silence, and expressions of welcome, good wishes and farewell.
2. If music or readings are selected on the basis of secular criteria, they may be included even though they may have had a religious inspiration or have a religious theme.
3. Prayers are intrinsically religious and are not to be included.
4. Student involvement in developing and presenting the program is recommended, including the use of student speakers.

Baccalaureate

Since a Baccalaureate service is not school sponsored and is religious in nature, the safeguards for commencement do not apply.

Last review:  2005-06
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Series 500
Code 531
Title: Class Gifts for Schools
Money may be spent on class gifts to schools when such expenditure is made in accord with approved guidelines.

Administrative Procedures:  Code 531
Last review:  2005-06
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Series 500
Code 540
Title:  Student Organizations
Student organizations within the district shall be approved by the superintendent or by the superintendent’s designee. The formation of secret fraternities and sororities is prohibited.

Administrative Procedures: Code 540
Legal reference: Iowa Code § 287.1
Revised February 4, 1992; April 22, 2003
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 545
Title:  Social Events
Social events in school facilities may be allowed when approved and conducted within established guidelines.

Administrative Procedures:  Code 545
Last review:  2005-06
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Series 500
Code 547
Title:  Activities and Events Sponsored by Community/School Associated Groups
The district will assist community-based but school-affiliated groups to establish well-designed and carefully stated goals for activities, trips, and excursions for students inside and outside the city when approved and conducted within established guidelines.

Administrative Procedures:  Code 547 and 547.1
Last review:  2005-06
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Series 500
Code 550
Title: Lunch Hour
Appropriate rules and regulations pertinent to the lunch period will be established by the building principal.

Administrative Procedures: Code 550
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 551
Title:  Fines, Fees, Charges
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 shall 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 shall be the responsibility of the administration to develop administrative procedures regarding this policy.

Administrative Procedures:  Code 551
Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.7(20); 279.8; 280.10, .11; 282.6; 285.1; 301.1 (1995), 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:  504  Homeless Children and Youth, 501  Compulsory Attendance, 502  Age Entrance Requirements, 503  Attendance, 520  Student Discipline
Adopted: July 8, 1997
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 552
Title:  Student Parking/Use of Vehicles
The necessary rules and regulations shall be implemented to regulate student driving and supervise district-owned parking lots.

Administrative Procedures: Code 552
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 554
Title:  Work Permits
Provisions of state and federal child labor laws are enforced during the entire year, including vacation periods.

Administrative Procedures: Code 554
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 556
Title:  Insurance Programs
Student insurance and athletic insurance programs may be offered to students and parents of the district when done in compliance with established guidelines.

Administrative Procedures: Code 556
Last review: 2005-06
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Series 500
Code 557
Title:  Individual Student Pictures
Individual student pictures may be taken in the elementary and middle schools and in high schools in grades 9, 10 and 11 when done in compliance with established guidelines.

Administrative Procedures:  Code 557
Last review:  2005-06
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Series 500
Code 558
Title:  Personal Expenses of Students
Lack of finances shall not prohibit a student’s participation in school-sponsored activities; the personal cost of attending activities will be kept at a minimum.

Administrative Procedures:  Code 558
Last review:  2005-06
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Series 500
Code 559
Title:  Student Expenses for Graduation Exercises
Students’ costs associated with graduation exercises will be kept at a minimum.

Administrative Procedures:  Code 559
Revised: February 4, 1992
Last review:  2005-06
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Procedures

Series 500
Code 501
Title: Compulsory Attendance
Parents must cause children between the ages of 6 and 16 who are residents of this school district to attend school, when in session, unless they meet one of the conditions of exception as provided in Chapter 299.2, Code of Iowa.  In lieu of attendance in one of the district’s public schools, a child may attend an accredited nonpublic school or competent private instruction.

If the instruction is provided in an accredited nonpublic school, the board will consider the program as meeting the compulsory education requirements.

If the instruction is provided in an accredited nonpublic school, the board secretary shall request from the school’s principal a certificate and report in duplicate of the names, ages, and number of days in attendance of each pupil over 6 and under 16, and the course of study pursued by the student.

All reports from accredited nonpublic schools must be submitted within 10 days from receipt of the request.

If parents elect competent private instruction, the district will provide a teaching assistance program. The consulting teacher’s services will include:

1. Providing district instructional materials and objectives and evaluating other materials.
2. Consulting with and advising the private instructor with respect to lesson plans, educational goals and objectives, teaching and learning techniques, planning, record keeping and other duties as agreed upon.
3. Consulting and advising the private instructor with respect to diagnosing student strengths and weaknesses, forms of assessment and evaluation of student learning and interpretation of test results.

All requests for private teaching assistance should be submitted on or before August 1 each year to the Chief Academic Officer.

Revised: January 19, 1993; October 2002; February 10, 2003
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Series 500
Code 502
Title: Entrance Requirements
A student shall not be admitted to kindergarten unless he/she is five years of age on or before the 15th day of September of the current school year, except those identified as needing special education services, who may enter the preschool handicapped program at age 0 through age 7.

A student shall not be admitted to the first grade unless he/she is six years of age on or before the 15th day of September of the current year, except when they are advanced from kindergarten to the first grade as a result of the following process which has been approved by the Iowa Department of Education.

1. On the request of the parents, kindergarten children may be evaluated for advance placement.  School personnel will recommend advance placement only after the Strategies in Early Childhood Preschool Assessment (WAUPUN) has been made.  The school principal may assign a school psychologist to provide additional assessment measures
2. A staffing team composed of at least a parent, school principal, and the kindergarten teacher will make a recommendation to the Department of Elementary and Early Childhood Programs for advancing a student to the first grade.  Other persons can be included on the staffing team as appropriate.
3. Parents may appeal the decision of the staffing team to the board through the Superintendent of Schools.  The superintendent will study the staffing team reports and make a recommendation to the board about the placement and the board will take official action.
4. Appeal of the board’s decision to the Iowa Department of Education is available under Chapter 290 of the Code of Iowa.

All students, upon entering the Des Moines Independent Community School District shall present a birth certificate or other satisfactory evidence of age.

Revised January 19, 1993; February 10, 2003
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Series 500
Code 503.4
Title:  Attendance–Late Enrollment and Transfers

1. Late Enrollment
   A student who is eligible to attend the Des Moines Public Schools may enroll at the appropriate attendance center up to the end of the fifth (5) school day after classes begin each semester.  A student who has not been attending school and wishes to enroll after the end of the fifth (5) school day of the semester must apply to the Department of Student and Family Services.  The Executive Director of Student and Family Services will determine the student’s eligibility to attend the Des Moines Public Schools, placement of the student and the conditions under which the student will be enrolled.  Special education students must be enrolled in special education classes whenever a parent makes an admission request.
2. Enrollment of Transfer Students from Outside the Des Moines School District
   A student who has been attending school in another district on a regular basis may be enrolled by the administration of the appropriate attendance center without delay by application to the Department of Student and Family Services unless questions of residency need to be resolved before enrollment.  These procedures shall not be interpreted to deny enrollment to otherwise eligible homeless persons.
3. Attendance Officer
   The school district’s truant officer will be assisted by the social worker of each school when dealing with violations of this procedure.

Approved: August 16, 1994 Revised: October 2002
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Series 500
Code 505
Title:  Nonresidents
Ordinarily, the legal residence of a minor shall be considered the same as that of the parents. Moving a student’s abode for the sole purpose of attending school in the Des Moines school district shall be insufficient evidence of establishment of residency.

Tuition fees for nonresident elementary, middle, and senior high school students from outside the state of Iowa shall be that rate determined each year as approved by the Board of Directors and the State Department of Education as indicated in Chapter 282 of the Code of Iowa.

The district may accept tuition students into special education programs when space is available. Tuition payments shall be made in accordance with the formula established by law. Charge for these services are made on an “actual cost” basis.

Nonresident students, K-12, residing within the state of Iowa, who wish to attend the Des Moines Public Schools, shall follow the district’s open enrollment policy. The district retains the right to place students in the attendance centers to maintain appropriate class size and insure compliance with the district’s desegregation plan.

Foreign students will be enrolled without tuition charge when they are recommended and sponsored by an exchange agency approved by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET) and the U. S. Immigration Office. Students from any of the district’s approved sister cities will also be enrolled without tuition charge; such exchanges will be limited to two students per year from each city, unless approved by the Board of Directors All foreign students, regardless of the sponsoring agency, shall comply with immunization requirements, have demonstrated English proficiency, and provide recommendations attesting to their character and suitability from their school principal, teacher or counselor. American Field Service, etc. programs are on exchange, J-1 status, an exchange program of the U.S. Department of State, and are issued DSP-66 forms rather than I-20 forms. The J-1 exchange high school student is limited to one academic year or less. This status cannot be extended.

The district does not recognize or encourage individual parents who may wish to run their own private exchange plan. District personnel are not authorized to sign the immigration I-20 forms since these require certification as to standards that can be checked only at the source in a foreign country.

Revised January 19, 1993
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Series 500
Code 505.1
Title:  Foreign Exchange Student Enrollment
The following guidelines apply for enrolling foreign exchange students in the Des Moines high schools:

1. The sponsoring agency will submit the following information by June 10, preceding the enrollment for the following term:

1. pertinent academic records;
2. proof of immunization as required by the State of Iowa Health Department;
3. proof of student proficiency in the English language which is acceptable to the Des Moines high schools;
4. appropriate screening of the host family.

1. The sponsoring agency will send a copy of health insurance and information of any other arrangements made to meet the emergency needs of the exchange student while attending the Des Moines schools.
2. The sponsoring agency should have a local representative who will visit with the principal in advance and also to meet the individual needs of students while in this country.
3. Foreign exchange students should have completed at least grade nine.
4. Each high school principal will determine the maximum number of students to be enrolled.
5. The school district will have the latitude to enroll foreign exchange students in one of the high schools other than the home school of the host family.
6. Foreign exchange students are enrolled for one year or less.

Approved October 3, 1989; revised January 19, 1993
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Series 500
Code 507
Title:  School Attendance–Student Assignment to Schools

1. School Attendance Areas
   Each school attendance area is approved by the Board of Directors.  Students who reside in a school attendance area are eligible for the services of that school.  Exceptions are made for special program needs and for reasons related to school discipline.  The Director of Board and Community Relations will maintain a district boundary bulletin.  School boundaries will be reviewed annually and boundary change recommendations will be presented to the Board of Directors at a work session in November.
2. Open Enrollment
   Open enrollment approval is for the period of time needed to complete the program of the school.  Schools that receive open enrollment students are considered to be the home school (neighborhood school) for these students.
   Restrictions are placed on open enrollment transfers that will: 1) create space problems which decrease school program effectiveness; or, 2) increase minority enrollment in identified schools.  The Student Services Division will establish application dates for open enrollment and will provide guidelines and application forms.  The Executive Director of Elementary and Early Childhood Programs and the Executive Director of Middle and High School Programs will provide all guidelines and application dates.
   The Executive Director of Student and Family Services will receive and process application for open enrollment.  The Executive Director of Elementary and Early Childhood Programs and the Executive Director of Middle and High School Programs will approve or reject all applications received.
3. Voluntary Transfer Program
   Students who are members of ethnic minority groups and who attend schools where the minority enrollment approaches or exceeds the district’s guidelines on minority enrollment may apply and receive reassignment and transportation to other schools.
   The Director of Intercultural Programs will provide guidelines and application forms and will process applications for voluntary transfer assignments.  The Executive Director of Elementary and Early Childhood Programs and the Executive Director of Middle and High School Programs will approve voluntary transfer program guidelines.  The Director of Intercultural Programs will arrange for transportation services with the Transportation Department.
4. Special Education Programs
   The Executive Director of Student and Family Services will assign special education students to schools offering the most appropriate district programs.
5. Student Transfers
   Department of Student and Family Services will arrange for transfers of Students to a new school when the change is appropriate for the student’s progress in school.
6. Student Assignment Council and Appeal Panel
   When district enrollment policies place hardships on families, the Student Assignment Council and the District Appeal Panel offer provisions for due process.
   Parents wishing to seek exception for district enrollment policies and procedures should be referred to the Department of Student Services where they will receive a hearing and a decision about their request.
   If parents wish to appeal decisions of the Student Assignment Council, they may request an additional hearing from the Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, who will assemble a panel of two administrators who are not members of the Student Assignment Council to hear parents’ appeals.  The associate superintendent may request a summary of previous action from the chairman of the Student Assignment Council.
7. Late Enrollment–Middle and High Schools
   A student who is eligible to attend the Des Moines Independent Community School District, but has not been attending school, will be enrolled by the administration of the appropriate attendance center up to and including the 5th day after classes begin each semester.
   A student who has not been attending school and wishes to enroll after the end of the 5th day of the semester must apply to the Department of Student and Family Services.
   The Department of Student and Family Services will determine if the student is eligible to attend the Des Moines Independent Community School District, and also determine placement for the student in question and the conditions under which he or she will be enrolled.
8. School Attendance–Rules

See Board Policy Code 520: Student Discipline
Revised January 19, 1993; October 2002
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Series 500
Code 509
Title:  Pupil Transportation

1. Distance Eligibility:
   Distances will be measured according to Iowa law, on the public roadway, and over the shortest route determined to be safe and passable by the Transportation Department.  Distances will be measured by car odometer.
2. Hazardous Walking Conditions:
   Determination will be made by the Transportation Department and may include, but is not limited to, consideration of the following:

1. Review by Des Moines Traffic and Transportation Department
2. Age of student
3. Traffic and traffic control devices
4. Roadway surface and adequacy of walkway
5. Railroad crossing at grade
6. Accident history

Requests for review or determination of eligibility by either of these standards should be made to the transportation supervisor by the principal; determination made by the Transportation Department, and decisions communicated to the principal for further handling.

The Executive Director of Student and Family Services will be advised of the decision made by the Transportation Department.

1. Addition of Service:
   Requests for initiating late activity, extra-curricular, early morning, or other special transportation service should be directed to the Executive Director of Elementary and Early Childhood Programs or the Executive Director of Middle and High School Programs.Upon request of that executive director, the transportation supervisor will respond as to whether that service can or cannot be provided.  If service is possible, a review of the potential impact will be conducted by the Transportation Department and this information discussed with the executive director prior to approval or denial of the request.  The executive director will advise the principal of the decision.
2. Deletion of Service:
   When service may need to be discontinued, a review will be made by the Executive Director of Management Services, the Executive Director of Student and Family Services, the Executive Director of Elementary and Early Childhood Programs or the Executive Director of Middle and High School Programs, and the affected principals prior to a decision being made.  Advance notice to parents of intent to discontinue will be made as early as feasible, with deletion of services occurring between school years.
3. Requests for Exceptions:
   All requests for exceptions to procedures are to be handled through the principal, who will attach an investigative report and forward to the transportation supervisor.  The transportation supervisor will review the report of the principal and prepare a recommendation to be given to the Review Committee.  Requests will be reviewed by a committee comprised of the following: the Chief Operations Officer; the Chief Academics Officer; the Executive Director of Elementary and Early Childhood Education; the Executive Director of Middle and High School Programs; the Executive Director of Management Services; and, the Executive Director of Student and Family Services.The transportation supervisor will communicate the committee’s decision to the principal.
4. Paid Transportation:

1. Inquiries are to be directed to the principal of the building where the student is enrolled.
2. The principal of the building where the student is enrolled will forward inquiries to the Executive Director of Management Services with the following information:

1. Student name
2. Student address
3. School where student is enrolled

1. The Executive Director of Management Services will ascertain if an established route exists and if a pickup and drop-off point can be established along the route (subject to total number of stops and riding time allowed), and if there is space available on the bus.  Subject to all conditions being met, the Director of Operations will advise:

1. The principal, who will advise the parent or guardian, collect the fee, and forward same to the controller.
2. The transportation supervisor, who will implement the request.

1. Requests for paid transportation will require a semester commitment on a half-day or a full-day basis to facilitate advanced transportation planning with respect to space available.  The pro rata cost of transportation will be collected on a monthly basis in advance.  Failure to make payment will exclude the student from ridership.
2. Students who pay to ride will not be able to ride if students eligible for free transportation require the space.  A refund will be made if transportation cannot be continued for the remaining portion of the period for which payment has been made.  This does not apply to a given day-by-day situation where absence is a consideration.  A break in normal attendance (moving out of district, extended illness, suspension, etc.) would make the student eligible for reimbursement.

Revised January 19, 1993; October 2002
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Series 500
Code 510
Title:  Attendance Records
It shall be the duty of the principal of each building to ensure that adequate attendance records are kept.
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Series 500
Code 513
Title:  Student Records

1. Access, Maintenance and Release of Student Records

1. Every parent or guardian of a student, prospective student, or former student enrolled in the school district, or any student who has attained the age of 18 years, shall have the right to inspect and review official records, files, and data directly related to the student; including all material that is incorporated into the student’s cumulative record folder, intended for school use, or to be available to parties outside the school or school system; and specifically including but not necessarily limited to identifying data, academic work completed, level of achievement (grades, standardized achievement test scores), attendance data, scores on standardized intelligence, aptitude, and psychological tests, interest inventory results, health data, family background information, teacher or counselor ratings or observations, and verified reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns.Records of files or personal information contained therein of students shall not be released without the prior written consent of parents (or in the case of a student who has attained 18 years of age, the consent of student), other than to school officials, including teachers within the school district who have legitimate educational interests, or to officials of other schools or school systems in which the student intends to enroll.The Department of Student and Family Services shall establish appropriate procedures for the granting of a request by parents (or students who have attained 18 years of age) for access to the student’s school records; and, to classify, maintain, and release student records.
2. The Departments of Elementary and Early Childhood Programs and Middle and High School Programs may authorize the release of class rosters to colleges and universities, military organizations, parent-teacher associations, or local organizations, unless the student or guardian disapproves of such release.
3. Parents must be permitted the right to have a representative inspect and review the records.
4. Fees may not be collected to search and retrieve information.
5. Confidentiality is protected at collection, storage, disclosure, and destruction stages.

1. Records of Students Transferring To the District
   When a student seeks to transfer or has transferred into the district, the Executive Director of Student and Family Services, the appropriate building principal, or the Director’s or principal’s designee will request records from the student’s previous school relating to any suspension or expulsion action taken against the student.  Once received, the building principal or principal’s designee shall disclose this information only to those school employees whose duties require them to be involved with the student.  Such disclosure shall be accomplished by allowing staff access to review student records in the school’s office area.  School employees who may be allowed to access and review student records include persons employed by the district who provide services to the student or school and who may be specifically or generally responsible for supervising the student’s participation at school or in school programs and activities.
2. Records of Students Transferring From the District
   The Executive Director of Student and Family Services or the Director’s designee shall provide an accurate record of any suspension or expulsion action taken against a Des Moines Public Schools student upon the request of a school superintendent, principal, or other school administrator from a district to which the student seeks to transfer or has transferred.  Such records shall include those records then available from the student’s last attendance center and those records available from the district’s Department of Student and Family Services.

Revised: October 18, 1994; July 8, 1997
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Series 500
Code 515
Title:  Student Directory Information

Annual Notice
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records.  They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the District receives a request for access.
   Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect.  The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2. The right to contest placement of a controversial record in the student’s education records.
   Parents or eligible students may ask the Des Moines Independent Community School District to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate, misleading or a violation of the student’s right to privacy.  They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.  If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the District will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a meeting with a District employee who is not directly interested in the outcome. Additional information regarding the meeting procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when they are notified of their right to the meeting.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
   One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.  A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, faculty member, staff member, member of the Board of Directors, or others acting on their behalf who the superintendent has determined to have a legitimate educational interest in obtaining access to information in a student’s education records.
   A legitimate educational interest exists when the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
   Upon request, the District will disclose education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
4. The right to inform the District that the parent or eligible student does not want the District’s designated directory information, as defined below, to be released to the public, which may include colleges, universities and military recruiters.  To object to the designation and release of certain student records as directory information, the parent or eligible student must notify the principal in writing, prior to September 10 of each school year (or two weeks from the date of enrollment in the District if such enrollment occurs after September 10), of the information not wished to be released.  This objection to the release of directory information must be renewed annually.
   Directory information means information contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if  disclosed. The Des Moines Independent Community School District has designated the following student information as directory information:

• Student’s name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address;
• Parent’s name, address and telephone number;
• Date and place of student’s birth;
• Curriculum (major field of study);
• Year in school;
• Participation in recognized organizations, activities and sports;
• Weight and height of members of athletic teams;
• Degrees, awards and honors received;
• The most recent educational institution attended by the student;
• Photographs, audio tapes and videotapes of the student; and
• Date of attendance at the school district (general periods of time during which an individual attended or was enrolled in an educational agency or institution).

Any information not designated by the District as directory information will be considered an educational record under FERPA and may not be released to the public without parental or eligible student consent.

1. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA.  The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:
   Family Policy and Compliance Office
   U.S. Department of Education
   400 Maryland Avenue, SW
   Washington, D.C. 20202-4605
2. The District may share information contained in a student’s record with officials of the juvenile justice system if such information will assist in their ability to serve the student.

Directory Information Public Notice
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) requires that the Des Moines Independent Community School District designate as “directory information” any personally identifiable information taken from a student’s educational records prior to making such information available to the public.

The Des Moines Independent Community School District has designated the following information as directory information:

• Student’s name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address;
• Date and place of student’s birth;
• Curriculum (major field of study);
• Year in school;
• Participation in recognized organizations, activities and sports;
• Weight and height of members of athletic teams;
• Degrees, awards and honors received;
• The most recent educational institution attended by the student;
• Photographs of the student; and
• Date of attendance at the school district (general periods of time during which an individual attended or was enrolled in an educational agency or institution).

You as a parent, or eligible student, have the right to refuse the designation or release of any or all of the categories of personally identifiable information as directory information provided that you notify the School District in writing no later than September 10 of the current school year (or within two weeks of the date of enrollment in the District if such enrollment occurs after September 10).  If no timely objection or refusal is received by the District, the District will presume that consent is given for the designation and release of the student’s directory information.

Note: Any information not designated by the District as directory information will be considered an educational record under FERPA and may not be released to the public without prior parental or eligible student consent.

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Series 500
Code 518
Title:  Interviewing Pupils at School by Non-School Personnel

1. Interviewing Students by School Resource Officers:
   Certain police officers may be assigned by the Des Moines Police Department to serve as School Resource Officers. These officers will be present in the schools and will interact with the students, staff, parents and other visitors to the school.  School Resource Officers may interact with students and interview students regarding school-related issues without any prior permission or involvement of other school staff.  If School Resource Officers wish to interview students regarding non-school related law enforcement concerns, however, they should follow the process relating to interviewing students at school by police.
2. Interviewing Students at School by Police:
   While the police have a legal right to interview students at school, students have a legal right to refuse to answer any questions if they so desire.
   School officials cannot refuse to permit police officers to interview students at school.
   If the interview is held at school, an effort shall be made to contact the student’s parent(s) and/or attorney.  Prior to the interview, the principal or his/her designee shall explain to the student that police officials would like to interview him/her and that the student can lawfully refuse to answer questions of the police official.  The school official shall be present during the interview.
   It is preferable to conduct the interview in the home of the student.  If contact with the parents prior to the conference cannot be made and the conference must be held at school, the parents must, subsequently, be informed that a conference was held.
3. Interviews of Students by the Child Protective Agency:
   The Department of Human Services is empowered to investigate reports of suspected child abuse.  Human Services workers may, in the course of their investigation, deem that it is necessary to talk to the child outside the home.  If an authorized Human Services investigator requests to interview an alleged child abuse subject at school, district personnel should cooperate.  The following guidelines should be followed:

1. Administrators shall cooperate with the investigators by providing confidential access to the child named in the report, and to other children alleged to have relevant information, for the purposes of interviews.  The investigators shall determine who shall be present at the interview.  The school administrators are under no duty to report the investigation or interview to the child’s parent or guardian.  The immunity granted by Section 232.73 applies to such administrators and the school district.
2. Administrators will verify that the investigator is authorized by the Child Protective Agency and then cooperate with the investigation as outlined above.  A law officer (police, sheriff, or juvenile court officer) may take a child from the school to facilitate the investigation.

1. Interviewing Students at School by Attorneys:
   Attorneys have no legal right to interview students at school concerning any matter.  Principals should refuse to permit these interviews unless written parental permission has been granted.  No teacher should discuss privileged information relative to a student’s attendance, academic achievement, intellectual capabilities, or any other privileged or confidential information held by the school or contained in its records without a written request and consent to release such information from a parent having legal custody of the student.
2. Interviewing Students at School by Estranged Parents:
   Caution should be observed in allowing interviews with students by parents with whom the child is not living.  In some cases, courts remove parental rights.  In these cases, the parent who retains guardianship must agree to the conference before it can be approved.
3. Interviewing Students at School by Other Persons:
   District procedures do not generally permit students to be interviewed by public officials, private detectives, merchants, or other persons without authorization of parents.  Principals will use their judgment in making exceptions to this general procedure.

Code of Iowa 232.73
Revised January 19, 1993; April 22, 2003
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Series 500
Code 519
Title: Search by School Staff Relating to Students, Protected Student Areas, Lockers, Desks, and Other School Facilities or Spaces

I. Searches of a student or protected student area.

A.  A school official may search an individual student and a protected student area if:
1.  The official has reasonable grounds for suspecting that the search will produce evidence that a student has violated or is violating either the law, or a school rule or regulation, or any other reasonable expectation of student conduct, and
2.  The search is conducted in a manner which is reasonably related to the objectives of the search and which is not excessively intrusive in light of the age and gender of the student and the nature of the infraction.

B.  All searches of students or protected student areas must be reasonably related in scope to the circumstances which gave rise to the need for the search and based upon consideration of relevant factors which include, but are not limited to, the following:
1.  The nature of the violation for which the search is being instituted.
2.  The age and gender of the student who may be searched, and
3.  The objectives to be accomplished by the search.

C.  If a student is not or will not be present at the time a search of a protected student area is conducted, the student shall be informed of the search either prior to or as soon as is reasonably practicable after the search is conducted.

II. Inspections of lockers, school desks and other provided spaces.

A.  School officials may conduct periodic inspections of all, or a randomly selected number of, school lockers, desks, and other facilities or spaces owned by the school and provided as a courtesy to students. Periodic Inspections of school lockers, desks, or other facilities or spaces owned by the school and provided as a courtesy to a student may be conducted by a drug/contraband sniffing animal

B. The furnishing of a school locker, desk, or other facility or space owned by the school and provided as a courtesy to a student shall not create a protected student area, and shall not give rise to an expectation of privacy on a student’s part with respect to that locker, desk, facility, or space.  Allowing a student to use a separate lock on a locker, desk, or other facility or space owned by the school and provided to the student shall not give rise to an expectation of privacy on a student’s part with respect to that locker, desk, facility, or space.

C. Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not a right and parking provided as a courtesy to students. The interior of a student’s automobile on the school premises may be searched without a search warrant if there is reasonable suspicion that a student has violated or is violating the law, or has illegal, unauthorized, or contraband items contained inside.

D.  Each year when school begins, all district schools shall provide written notice to all students and the students’ parents, guardians, or legal custodians, informing them that school officials may conduct periodic inspections of school lockers, desks, and other facilities or spaces owned by the school and provided as a courtesy to students without prior notice.  An inspection under this policy shall either occur in the presence of the student whose locker is being inspected or in the presence of at least one other person.

III. Prohibited Searches.

A.  School officials shall not conduct a search which involves:

1.  A strip search.
2.  A body cavity search.
3.  The use of a drug/contraband sniffing animal to search a student’s body
4.  The search of a student by a school official not of the same sex as the student.

IV. Definitions.

A.  “Protected student area” includes, but is not limited to:

1.  A student’s body.
2.  Clothing worn or carried by a student.
3.  A student’s pocketbook, briefcase, duffel bag, book bag, backpack, knapsack, or any other container used by a student for holding or carrying personal belongings of any kind and in the possession or immediate proximity of the student.

B.  “School official” means licensed school employees, including but not limited to principals, vice principals, deans of students, teachers, counselors and social workers, and also means unlicensed school employees employed for security or supervision purposes such as campus monitors.

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Series 500
Code 520
Title:  School Discipline
See Policy Code 520 for a statement of discipline policies and procedures for elementary students and middle and high schools.

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Series 500
Code 522
Title:  Distribution of Materials

1. Introduction
   The distribution of materials — solicitations or advertisements — directed to students shall proceed as provided in board policy. The distribution of materials on school-district property should not be construed as school-district endorsement of a product or service. School-district personnel are not authorized to speak on behalf of organizations that are soliciting or advertising. Except for questions regarding school-district responsibilities relating to the distribution of materials, parents or students with questions regarding products or services being solicited or advertised should be directed to the entity on whose behalf the materials are being distributed.
2. Submission of Requests to Distribute Materials
   Individuals or nonprofit organizations from outside the district who want to distribute printed materials to students must complete the Application to Request Distribution of Printed Materials to Students (see Attachment 522.B) and submit it to Board and Community Relations, 901 Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50309, at least 15 working days prior to the requested distribution date. A sample of the materials to be distributed must accompany this application.A separate request is required for each distribution. No single distribution is permitted without following these procedures and the corresponding policy and receiving approval from Board and Community Relations and the building principal. No more than two requests per fiscal year will be approved for distribution to a single school by an individual or a nonprofit organization regarding one particular activity, event or special group.
3. Approval of Requests to Distribute Materials
   If any changes in format are required, the contact person will be notified. After the required changes have been made and the materials have been approved, Board and Community Relations will notify the entity by letter. A copy of this letter must accompany each school building’s supply of the materials in order to inform the building principal that the materials have been approved.If the required changes in format are not made, the request will not be approved.Except in extenuating circumstances, decisions regarding distribution shall be made no later than three working days prior to the requested distribution date.
4. Disclaimer
   All materials to be distributed must have the following statement (a disclaimer) printed on or securely attached to each of them in a font that is readable and is the same size as the majority of the other text in the materials:

“This is not a Des Moines Public Schools publication and is being provided as a courtesy to inform you of other community activities and opportunities available.”

5. Disclaimers must be separate from other text and must be placed in a conspicuous location.
6. Commercial Advertising
   Except for advertising at school-district athletic facilities or during athletic events, materials may not contain commercial advertisements.
7. Production and Distribution of Materials
   Production of materials is the responsibility of the entity requesting permission to distribute. Dissemination of materials to school-district buildings is also the responsibility of the solicitor. Upon request, Board and Community Relations will provide enrollment figures for each building. At no time shall school-district resources be used for producing or distributing solicitation or related materials.
8. Solicitation Involving Non-School-District Activities on School Property
   Students are released from school supervision and returned to the care of parents at dismissal time. Non-school-district activities on school property that begin within 60 minutes of dismissal and are promoted using this process require written parental permission for all minors in attendance. Only Student Release Instructions forms (see Attachment 522.A) will be honored. These forms must be produced by the entity requesting permission to distribute materials. Forms that have been signed by the parent must be submitted to the principal’s office at least 24 hours prior to the event. All submitted forms become the property of the school district and are retained by the building principal.
9. Solicitation in Curricular Materials
   Curricular materials shall be selected according to accepted district guidelines. Materials used for educational purposes that contain commercial signs, symbols or other messages should be selected based on their educational value.
10. Disruption of School Services
    Decisions regarding the disruption of school services caused by the receipt and distribution of materials shall be made by the building principal.
11. Compliance With School-District Policies
    Completing the Application to Request Distribution of Printed Materials to Students (see Attachment 522.B) confirms that the entity will comply with the district’s affirmative-action, nondiscrimination and equal-employment-opportunity policies. Entities seeking permission to distribute materials and completing the application form are deemed to be in compliance with the district’s affirmative-action, nondiscrimination and equal-employment-opportunity policies unless:

• The entity discloses information to the contrary.
• A complaint is filed with Board and Community Relations alleging noncompliance.
• Board and Community Relations has reasonable doubt regarding compliance.
• Entities disclosing noncompliance will be deemed ineligible to distribute materials.

If an allegation of noncompliance is received or if there is reason to doubt compliance, the entity will be asked to respond with proof of compliance. Proof of compliance of initial and appellate decisions shall be measured on a case-by-case basis.

A resolution of the question will be made when sufficient information has been received from the entity requesting permission to distribute materials. If conflicting information exists after a response is received, the matter will be referred to a trained, professional arbitrator selected by Board and Community Relations. Any arbitration-service costs will be borne by the entity requesting permission to distribute materials. The decision of the arbitrator will be binding and not subject to appeal.

11. Appeals
    Entities may appeal a decision related to Policy Code 522 by notifying the Superintendent, 1801 16^th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314, in writing within five days of the decision, based on the date on the decision letter. Appeal decisions shall be made and entities shall be notified in writing within 10 working days following the receipt of an appeal.

522.A — Student Release Instructions

 

I wish to have (Student Name) ___________________________ attend the

meeting at (Meeting Name) (School Name) __________________________

at ____ a.m./p.m. on (Time) (Circle One) (Month Day, Year) ____________.

I understand that this is not a Des Moines Public Schools program nor a Heartland Area Education Agency program and that the Des Moines Public Schools will not be responsible for my child after the close of the school day at _________ p.m. nor during the program. I also understand that the Des Moines Public Schools is not responsible for my child’s transportation home after the program.

________________________________
Parent Signature

________________________________
Date

522.B — Application to Request Distribution of Printed Materials to Students

Individuals or nonprofit organizations from outside the district that want to distribute printed materials to students must complete this form and submit it to Board and Community Relations at least 15 working days prior to the requested distribution date. A sample of the materials to be distributed must accompany this application. All materials to be distributed must have the following statement printed on or securely attached to each of them in a font that is readable and the is same size as the majority of the other text in the materials:
This is not a Des Moines Public Schools publication and is being provided as a courtesy to inform you of other community activities and opportunities available.
If any changes in format are required, the contact person will be notified. After the required changes have been made and the materials have been approved, Board and Community Relations will notify the individual or organization by letter. A copy of this letter must accompany each school building’s supply of the materials in order to inform the building principal that the materials have been approved.

 

Name of the Entity:_______________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________

Contact Person for the Application:__________________________________

Telephone Number for the Contact Person:____________________________

Facsimile Number for the Contact Person:____________________________

Purpose of the Entity:_____________________________________________

Is This a Nonprofit Entity? ____YES       ____NO

Requested Date for Distribution of Materials to Students:

_______________________________________________________________

This entity agrees to follow the applicable policies and procedures of the Des Moines Public Schools:

_______________________________________________________________Signature of Authority

_______________________________________________________________
Title

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Series 500
Code 525
Title:  Health and Safety
The superintendent, with the administrative staff, shall plan and conduct health programs that are conducive to the well being of the children of the district.

1. There should be a school health physical examination:

1. Prior to entrance into kindergarten;
2. Upon entrance to the Des Moines school system from another school system;
3. During the third, sixth, and ninth grades.

The health examination should be carried out under the supervision of the family physician with adequate reports being made to the school. Those families who do not have or who are unable to afford the services of a family physician should receive assistance in obtaining a health examinations at an approved clinic. In the absence of such clinics, health examinations for these children could be carried out by a school nurse practitioner.

1. Students who become ill or injured at school will be given immediate care in accordance with accepted first-aid practices and procedures. Parents will be notified as soon as possible. If the parent cannot be reached, the school principal will make provision for appropriate health care.
2. Prescribed medicines may be administered during the school hours with Parent/Guardian permission when it is necessary to do so. The school nurse, in conjunction with the student’s physician, will determine when this service is necessary. The district will provide staff training to assure that someone in each building is authorized to administer medicine at all times.
3. Further specifics for dealing with individual health problems and illnesses are stated in the School District Health Services Manual.
4. Some students need special health services to participate in their educational program. These students shall receive special health services concomitant with their educational program. The school nurse shall provide special health services under the auspices of the school. The duties of the school nurse include:

1. to participate as a member of the education team;
2. to provide health assessment;
3. to plan, implement, and evaluate the written individual health plan;
4. to plan, implement, and evaluate special emergency health services;
5. to serve as liaison and encourage participation and communication with health service agencies and individual providing health care;
6. to provide health consultation, counseling, and instruction to the student, the student’s parent, and the staff in cooperation and conjunction with the prescriber;
7. to maintain a record of special health services;
8. to report unusual circumstances to the prescriber, parent and school administration; and
9. to assign, delegate, instruct, provide technical assistance to and supervise qualified designated personnel; and update knowledge and skills to meet special health service needs.

1. The record of special health services shall include:

1. the student’s name;
2. the special health service;
3. the prescriber or person authorizing;
4. the date and time;
5. the signature and title of the person providing the special health service; and
6. any unusual circumstances in the provision of such services.

1. Prior to the provision of special health services, the following shall be on file:

1. a written statement by the prescriber detailing the specific method and schedule of the special health service, when indicated;
2. a written statement by the student’s parent requesting the provision of the special health service;
3. a written report of the preplanning staffing or meeting of the education team; and
4. a written individual health plan.

1. The school nurse, in collaboration with the education team, shall determine the special health services to be provided and the qualifications of individuals performing the special health services. The documented rationale shall include the following:

1. an analysis and interpretation of the special health service needs, health status stability, complexity of the service, predictability of the service outcome, and risk of improperly performed service;
2. the determination that the special health service, task, procedure, or function is part of the person’s job description;
3. a review of the designated person’s competence; and
4. a determination of initial and ongoing level of supervision required to ensure quality services.

1. The school nurse shall supervise the special health services, define the level of supervision, and document the supervision.
2. The school nurse shall instruct qualified designated personnel to deliver and perform special health services contained in the individual health plan. Documentation of instruction and periodic updates shall be on file at the school.

Revised November 1, 1994
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Series 500
Code 526
Title:  Substance Abuse
Prevention of drug use will be directed toward providing students with educational experiences and information that will enable them to make responsible decisions regarding chemical use. Identification of students who misuse chemical substances requires awareness and observation on the part of staff members who relate to a student on a daily basis.

No student shall possess, consume or be under the influence of an alcoholic beverage on any public school property or while attending any school-related function.

No student shall possess a controlled substance unless such substance was obtained directly from, or pursuant to, a valid prescription or order of a medical practitioner while acting in the course of his/her professional practice.

The use by any student of tobacco or any controlled substance shall be prohibited while such student is on school premises or in attendance or participating in any school-related activity.

No student shall sell an alcoholic beverage, a controlled substance or any tobacco product, while on school property or while participating in any school-related activity.

Revised January 19, 1993
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Series 500
Code 531
Title:  Class Gifts to Schools
Approval to spend money on class gifts to schools must be secured from the Executive Director of Elementary and Early Childhood Programs or the Executive Director of Middle and High School Programs upon the recommendation of the building principal as suggested by the class sponsor and class officers.

Revised January 19, 1993
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Series 500
Code 540
Title:  School Sponsored Student Organizations
The superintendent, with the aid of staff members, shall determine qualifications for approved student organizations. The formation of secret fraternities and sororities is prohibited.

The following criteria shall be observed to enable the building principal, with the approval of the Executive Director of Middle and High School Programs and/or the Superintendent of Schools, to approve the establishment of student organizations:

1. Membership shall not depend on race, creed, color, sex, national origin, religion, disability, or sexual orientation;
2. A statement of purpose(s) and constitution must be filed with the building principal; and,
3. A bona fide school employee shall be the sponsor for each group.

Revised January 19, 1993
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Series 500
Code 545
Title:  Social Events
The following principles apply in regard to social events:

1. The school must be in control of the situation if it is to sponsor the event and accept the responsibility for maintaining supervision.
2. Every effort should be made to keep students’ costs as low as possible and still provide social events that the students consider attractive and important.
3. The event should begin and end at hours considered reasonable by the community and by those who must be on duty to supervise it.
4. The list permitted to attend should be restricted to those who can be expected to recognize the authority and responsibility of the school. In most instances, at least one member of each couple should be a member of the class or classes honored at the party. In other words, it should always be a closed occasion not open to the public in general.

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Series 500
Code 547
Title:  Activities and Events Sponsored by Community/School Associated Groups
The school staff and administration may assist community-based but school-affiliated associated groups. The school may assist by allowing announcements to be made, sale of tickets, accounting of funds through the treasurer, and arranging transportation with a public carrier.
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Series 500
Code 547.1
Title:  Fund Raising

1. Each school support organization planning to participate in fund raising activities should establish a fund raising committee to work in conjunction with the principal to develop plans for raising and disbursing funds.
2. Basic instructional equipment, furniture, and materials should be provided by the district.
3. Fund raising activities should be confined to non-instructional time, with the exception of business-related classes where the activity is part of the curriculum. Teacher and administrator time should be kept to a minimum.
4. Incentive-based sales should be discouraged with the resulting increased profits going to the school project. When possible, service to the community should be part of the fund raising project.
5. The quality of the product and the reputation of the firm should be considered in all fund raising activities.
6. Sales of candy should be discouraged. Other more nutritious products should be encouraged.
7. All funds raised by school and school-related groups should be audited yearly and a written report filed with the principal’s office for public record.
8. No student should be required to participate in a fund raising activity.
9. Elementary and middle school students should be allowed to go door-to-door only in their immediate neighborhood and with written permission of their parents. Permission slips must be on file at the school before materials are distributed to the students.
10. Major all-school fund raisers should be limited to one per year, not including in-house fund raising projects. In-house projects include such activities as pictures, bake sales, fun nights, garage sales, dinners, etc.

Approved April 2, 1985; revised January 19, 1993
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Series 500
Code 550
Title:  Lunch Hour
The principal of each school will define rules and regulations pertaining to the school lunch program.

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Series 500
Code 551
Title:  Student Fee Waiver and Reduction Procedures
The board recognizes that while certain fees charged students are appropriate and authorized, certain students and their families are not financially able to pay the fees. The school district will grant either full waivers, partial waivers or temporary waivers depending upon the circumstances and the student or student’s parents’ ability to meet the financial criteria.

1. Waivers

1. Full Waivers – a student will be granted a full waiver of fees charged by the school district if the student or student’s parents meet the financial eligibility criteria for free meals under the Child Nutrition program, Family Investment Program, Supplemental Security Income guidelines, or transportation assistance under open enrollment. Students in foster care are also eligible for full waivers.
2. Partial Waivers – a student will be granted a partial waiver of fees charged by the school district if the student or the student’s parents meet the financial eligibility criteria for reduced price meals offered under the Child Nutrition program. The reduction percentage will be 50 percent.
3. Temporary Waivers – a student may be eligible for a temporary waiver of fees charged by the district in the event the student’s parents are facing financial difficulty. Temporary waivers may be applied for at any time throughout the school year and shall not extend beyond the end of the school year.

1. Application – Parents or students eligible for a fee waiver shall make an application on the form provided by the school district. Applications may be made at any time but must be renewed annually.
2. Confidentiality – The school district will treat the application and application process as any other student record and student confidentiality and access provisions will be followed.
3. Appeals – Denials of a waiver may be appealed to the building principal. This process will be the same as the free/reduced-price lunch appeal process. The building principal will notify the Department of Food and Nutrition Management of the request for appeal.
4. Fines or charges assessed for damage or loss to school property are not fees and will not be waived.
5. Notice – the school district will annually notify parents and students of the waiver. The following information will be included in registration materials and printed in the student handbook.Students whose families meet the income guidelines for free and reduced price lunch, the Family Investment Program (FIP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), transportation assistance under open enrollment, or who are in foster care are eligible to have their student fees waived or partially waived. Students whose families are experiencing a temporary financial difficulty may be eligible for a temporary waiver of student fees. Parents or students who believe they may qualify for temporary financial hardship should contact the bookkeeper or secretary at registration time for a waiver form. This waiver does not carry over from year to year and must be completed annually.When application for any fee waiver is granted, the fee or fees waived under the application are not collectible. This does not apply to temporary waivers.

Approved July 8, 1997
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Series 500
Code 552
Title:  Student Parking/Use of Vehicles
Each building principal shall develop appropriate rules and regulations to administer student driving procedures and district-owned parking lots. “Carpooling” is encouraged and students forming car pools may receive special consideration in school-assigned parking lots.
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Series 500
Code 554
Title:  Work Permits
In accordance with the provisions of the child labor laws of Iowa, work permits for minor children shall be issued by the Superintendent of Schools or an authorized designee for the following three categories:

• Street trade permit (ages 10-16)
• Work permit (ages 14-15)
• Certificate of age (age 16 and over)

The information required for the issuance of a work permit or certificate of age shall include:

1. A written agreement from the employer agreeing to employ the child, with a description of the type of business/industry and the work to be performed.
2. Proof of age from a certified copy of a birth certificate or other acceptable document.

A parent or student interested in obtaining a work permit may contact a school counselor or the Department of Student and Family Services to receive an Iowa Employer’s Agreement form that requires information to be completed by the parent and the employer.  When the form is completed with the appropriate information and signatures and returned to the school counselor or the Department of Student and Family Services, an Iowa Child Labor form (work permit) will be issued, with copies of the permit provided to the employer, parent, and the Division of Labor.  The district official issuing the permit will retain a copy for district records.

The enforcement of the child labor laws shall be the responsibility of the Iowa Commissioner of Labor.  Various government officials, including the Superintendent of Schools and the district’s truancy officer, shall cooperate with the commissioner to enforce these laws.  This responsibility sets out the authorization to enter, for any purpose of investigation, any place or establishment and to question any person regarding any possible violations of the child labor law agreement.

Any complaint regarding a possible violation shall be made to the county attorney for further investigation and prosecution of the employer and/or parent or guardian of the child.

Revised January 19, 1993
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Series 500
Code 556
Title:  Insurance Programs
A student insurance and athletic insurance program may be offered to the students and parents of the district.  The purchase of student insurance shall be completely voluntary and no student shall be urged to make such purchase.
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Series 500
Code 557
Title:  Individual Student Pictures
Individual student pictures may be taken in elementary and middle schools and in high schools in grades 9, 10 and 11 as arranged by parent or other school groups with the approval of the building principal.
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Series 500
Code 558
Title:  Personal Expenses of Students
School principals will implement procedures to assure that no student is denied an educational activity or other school activity for want of materials and/or equipment.
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Series 500
Code 559
Title:  Student Expenses for Graduation Exercises
When the principal or a designated representative determines that the cost may preclude a student’s participation in graduation ceremonies, such cost shall be paid by the school district.
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