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Board Policy Administrative Regulation
504.01 Discipline Policy (Revised 9/29/08) (Revised 4/23/12) (See 501.15, Attendance Policy)  
504.02 Personal Appearance of Students (Reviewed 4/12/10) 504.02A
504.03 Search and Seizure (Revised 6/14/10) 504.03A

504.03B

504.04 Substance Abuse  (Revised 8/9/10)  
504.05 Expulsion/Exclusion (Reviewed 8/9/10) 504.05A
504.06 Parent and Student's Rights (Revised 6/14/10)  
504.07 Harassment: Students (Deleted 4/23/12 Combined with 504.10)  
504.08 Good Conduct Rule (Revised 6/14/10) 504.08A
504.09 Cell Phones and Electronic Devices (Revised 10/26/09) 504.09A
504.10 Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy: Students (Revised 9/29/08) (Revised 4/23/12) 504.10A
504.10B
504.10C

504.01

STUDENTS

Discipline Policy

One of the main purposes of education is to develop each student's maximum potential in a democratic society. In order to accomplish this objective, public schools must provide and maintain a school atmosphere that will encourage learning and help students develop responsibility in accordance with what is appropriate, decent, just, and respectful and fair to others.

Good discipline begins in the home, and it is a parent's obligation and responsibility to set an example to encourage students to develop the proper attitude toward the school. The home and school must work together so that each student will develop into the best possible citizen.

BASIC ELEMENTS

  1. Definition of School Discipline
  2. General Statements Relating to Maintenance of School Discipline
  3. Breach of Discipline
  1. Criminal Acts
  2. Tobacco, Liquor, and Controlled Substance
  3. Assaults and Threats to School Personnel
  4. Gang Activities
  5. Harassment
  6. Other Breaches of Discipline
  1. Control for which School Authorities Is Responsible
  2. Actions in Disciplinary Cases
  3. Corporal Punishment Barred
  4. Reasonable Force
  5. Weapons

* * * *

The development of this policy is the result of the combined efforts of persons representing instructional and non-instructional staff, parents, pupils, and the Board.

AMPLIFICATION OF THE BASIC ELEMENTS

  1. School discipline is the guidance of the conduct of pupils in a way that permits the orderly and efficient operation of the school, i.e., the maintenance of scholarly, disciplined atmosphere to achieve maximum educational benefits for all pupils.
  2. General Statements Relating to Maintenance of School Discipline
  1. School procedures necessary for achievement of the maximum educational benefits must be carried out. The carrying out of such school procedures is the joint responsibility of the Board, its staff, the pupils, and their parents.
  2. The dignity of the pupil as an individual shall be protected with proper consideration for personal feelings that may be associated with the pupil's age, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, race, religion, marital status, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or parental or familiar status. The recognition by the pupil and teacher of their responsibilities to each other in this connection might well establish a mutual respect that should stimulate a sound basis for carrying out school procedures.

    The dignity of the teacher and the principal as individuals and the respect for the teacher and the principal in their professional capacity as an important part of the school district should be protected--with proper consideration for the personal feelings of the individuals associated with the complexity and problems of teaching and administration.
  3. Members of the various staffs shall have the authority necessary to carry out such school procedures, including the use of reasonable physical force to prevent and stop any act of interference with the scholarly, disciplined atmosphere of the school.
  4. Teachers and principals are assured of prompt and decisive support by the Board and the Superintendent's office in cases involving a breach of discipline.
  5. Lockers and other school properties are loaned to the pupils for their use by the Board and are subject to periodic inspection by the administrators anytime upon at least twenty-four hours' notice to the students. Lockers may also be searched in accordance with Board Policy No. 504.03 for the safety and welfare of the pupils and the school. It is desirable that students be present at inspection time.
  6. The school administration shall not be bypassed by students, faculty, or others on any kind of problem. The general procedure is from student to teacher, to counselor, to principal, to Administrative Advisory Council, to Superintendent, and then to Board.
  1. Breach of Discipline is any conduct of pupils that interferes with the maintenance of school discipline.

Acts of behavior that tend to conflict with the educational program or that are antagonistic to the welfare of the students cannot be tolerated. Insubordination and misbehavior are incompatible with school discipline. The following conduct is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

  1. Criminal acts

Criminal acts by students shall be reported by the principal or acting building administrators to the Juvenile Bureau of the police department. Criminal acts such as assault, battery, larceny, robbery, vandalism, malicious threats, and malicious use of the telephone shall also result in disciplinary action. Principals should always be notified later, in the event that they are not present at the time, of the criminal act. 

  1. Tobacco, liquor, and other controlled substances

The use, possession, or distribution of tobacco, alcoholic liquor or beer or any controlled substance that is considered an illegal drug, or any drug paraphernalia or any look-alike drugs (as defined in the Uniform Controlled Substances Act) by any student on school property or while attending a school function as a participating representative of the school is prohibited. Students may be suspended, expelled, or excluded for any violation of this rule. The unauthorized distribution of prescription drugs to other students is, likewise prohibited, and subject to the penalties listed above.

  1. Threats and assaults to school personnel
    Whenever a pupil is charged with assault or assault and battery upon a staff member, the principal shall immediately be notified and shall undertake to determine whether there are reasonable grounds to believe the truth of the charge. If the principal so determines, the principal shall suspend the pupil at once and institute expulsion proceedings.

 

  1. Gang activities
    This Board believes that the presence of gangs and gang activities has caused and continues to cause a substantial disruption of or material interference with school and school activities. A "gang" as defined in this policy and under Iowa Code 723A means any ongoing organization, association, or group of three or more persons, whether formal or informal, having as one of its primary activities the commission of one or more criminal acts, which has an identifiable name or identifying sign or symbol, and whose members individually or collectively engage in or have engaged in a pattern of gang activity. The "pattern of gang activity" means the commission, attempt to commit, conspiring to commit, or solicitation of two or more criminal acts, provided the criminal acts were committed on separate dates or by two or more persons who are members of, or belong to, the same criminal street gang. Students may be suspended, expelled, or excluded for any violation of the rules listed below. By this policy, the Board acts to prohibit the existence of gangs and gang activities as follows:

No student on or about school property or at any school activity --

  1. Shall wear, possess, use, distribute, display, or sell any clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, or other thing that is evidence of membership in or affiliation with any gang.
  2. Shall commit any act or omission or use any speech, either verbal or non-verbal (gestures, hand shakes, etc.) showing membership or affiliation in a gang.
  3. Shall use any speech or commit any act or omission in furtherance of the interests of any gang or gang activity, including, but not limited to:
  1. Soliciting others for membership in any gangs;
  2. Requesting any person to pay for "protection" or otherwise intimidating or threatening any person;
  3. Committing any illegal act or violation of school district policies; or
  4. Inciting another student to act with physical violence upon any other person.

 

E.   Harrassment:

        The District’s prohibition against harassment and a definition thereof is located at Policy 504.10 (Anti-Bullying/Anti-Harrassment Policy: Students).

 

 

F.   Other breaches of discipline include but are not limited to the following:

1.      Temper tantrums that disrupt the orderly process of the school;

2.      Intimidating or threatening behavior;

3.      Open defiance involving refusal to conform to rules and regulations, profane or obscene language, loud and boisterous conduct that disturbs the orderly, efficient, and disciplined atmosphere and operation of the school, refusal to comply with the requests or direction of teachers, administrators, or other school personnel or similar actions;

4.      Willful disobedience;

5.      Breaking of rules of the school ;

6.      Physical attack and/or threats of physical attack, or physical violence to teachers, to the pupils, or to any other personnel;

7.      Personal misbehavior such as extortion, intimidation, or possession of dangerous objects;

8.      Display of overt bigotry or intolerance; or

9.      Libel or slander.

 

IV.         Disciplinary Control of Pupils is to be exercised as follows:

  1. While on school premises and traveling to and from school
  2. While on school buses or on chartered buses supervised by school personnel
  3. While away from school grounds and if in the judgment of the Superintendent or the administration, an incident of student behavior occurs that grew out of a school-sponsored activity.

Incidents of student behavior that occur off school property, and do not grow out of school sponsored-activities, ordinarily are not the responsibility of the school or its authorities, but may affect a student's eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities, including athletic teams, academic competitions, and clubs. The school may counsel and assist in whatever way possible students who are in difficulty.

Parent(s) or legal guardian(s) (hereinafter "parent(s)") of pupils are responsible for the actions and conduct of their children on and off school premises at all times. Other agencies, such as the Police Department, Juvenile Department, and the Courts, as well as other community agencies, have responsibilities, either defined by Law or by purpose of the agency, to assist juveniles whenever possible.  

V.      Actions in Disciplinary Cases

The following actions are authorized to be taken in cases of breach of school regulations and breaches of discipline:

A.    Detention
Before or after school or at other times under certain circumstances (including Saturdays)

B.     Denial of privileges
Exclusion from class or activity.

C.     Suspension of the pupil from school or school activities
After reasonable investigation into the nature and extent of any breach of regulations or discipline, a principal shall have the discretionary authority to suspend a pupil from school and/or school activities. The pupil, said pupil's parents, and the appropriate Administration Service Center Administrator shall be notified in writing immediately of the suspension and the reasons for it.

The principal shall schedule a conference with the pupil and his or her parents to be held as soon as practicable after the suspension. Following such conference, the principals shall determine whether the pupil shall be readmitted to school or school activities or whether the matter should be referred to the Administrative Advisory Council for further proceedings. Any such reference must be made within ten days after issuance of the suspension order.

D.    Probation
Probation may consist of disciplinary probation, academic probation, and/or social probation. The nature and extent of these categories shall be defined by the administration with the approval of the faculty.

E.     Appeal proceedings from orders of suspension or probation
The Administrative Advisory Council shall review all cases involving suspension or probation referred to it. The Administrative Advisory Council shall consist of the appropriate Administration Service Center Administrator, a faculty representative who is not personally involved in the matter, and an administrator from a different building at that level. A majority of the full voting Council shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

Upon referral of any suspension or probation matter to the Council, the appropriate Administration Service Center Administrator shall schedule a prompt hearing and give written notice thereof to the pupil and the pupil's parent(s). At such hearing, the Council shall receive testimony from the pupil and any other interested person. The pupil shall be entitled to representation by counsel and have the right to call and

      Upon conclusion of the hearing, the Council shall make written findings and recommendations as to extension, termination, or other disposition of the suspension or probation, which shall be filed with the Superintendent for action. A copy of such findings and recommendations shall be provided to the pupil and the pupil's parent(s).
Any recommendation for expulsion shall be forwarded to the Board for action. The Superintendent shall act on all cases involving discipline other than a recommended expulsion. The Superintendent's decision shall be stated in writing, and a copy shall be provided to the pupil and to the pupil's parent(s). The Superintendent's decision shall be final involving discipline other than a recommended expulsion. If the pupil or his/her parent(s) want the Superintendent's decision to be reviewed, they must file a written request with the Board within five school days after receipt of the Superintendent's decision.

All decisions by the Board shall be final within the authority vested in it by Iowa law.

All Administrative Advisory Council hearings on suspension orders shall be convened no later than the eleventh school day following issuance of the suspension order. All hearings on probation appeals shall be convened no later than the eleventh school day following receipt of the request for review of the probation order. All hearings on exclusion of pupils from class shall be convened no later than the fifth school day after referral by the principal. Pending Administrative Advisory Council hearing and recommendations and action by the Superintendent and/or Board, all suspension, probation, and class exclusion orders shall remain in effect, unless lifted or otherwise modified by the Superintendent or Board.

  1. Corporal Punishment

An employee of the District shall not inflict, or cause to be inflicted, corporal punishment upon a student. For purposes of this section, "corporal punishment" means the intentional physical punishment of a student. An employee's physical contact with the body of a student is justified if it is reasonable and necessary under the circumstances, and is not designed or intended to cause pain, or if the employee uses reasonable force, as defined under section 704.1 of the Code of Iowa, for the protection of the employee, the student, or other students; to obtain the possession of a weapon or other dangerous object within a student's control; or for the protection of property.

  1. Reasonable Force

Physical force may be used only to prevent a breach of discipline or to stop a continuing breach of discipline. Physical force is not to be used in relation to any breach of discipline that has been completed.

Restraint, which is considered the act of controlling the actions of a pupil when such action may inflict harm to said pupil or to others, is not considered corporal punishment. Teachers and administrators must feel free to use whatever reasonable means are appropriate at the moment if it is necessary to prevent a pupil from harming self or others.  

VIII. Weapons

The Board believes weapons and other dangerous objects and look-alikes in school district facilities cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, and visitors on the District premises or property within the jurisdiction of the District. For purposes of this policy, the term "weapons and other dangerous objects" shall include any instrument designed or intended to be used in either offensive or defensive combat.

District facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons or dangerous objects and look-alikes. Weapons and other dangerous objects and look-alikes shall be taken from students and others who bring them onto the District property or onto property within the jurisdiction of the District or from students who are within the control of the District.

Parents of students found to possess a weapon or dangerous objects or look-alikes on school property shall be notified of the incident. Confiscation of weapons or dangerous objects shall be reported to law enforcement officials, and the student will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion.

Students bringing a firearm to school shall be expelled for not less than twelve months. Students bringing to school or possessing dangerous weapons, including firearms, will be referred to law enforcement authorities. The superintendent shall have the authority to recommend this expulsion requirement be modified for a student on a case-by-case basis. For purposes of this portion of this policy, the term "firearm" includes any weapon designed to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant, the frame or receiver of any such weapon, a muffler or silencer for such a weapon, or any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas.

Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials shall be exempt from this policy. The principal may allow authorized persons to display weapons or other dangerous objects or look-alikes for educational purposes, such as ROTC, when supervised by staff. Such a display shall also be exempt from this policy. It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.       


504.02

STUDENTS

Personal Appearance of Students

The Board believes inappropriate student appearance causes material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors. While the primary responsibility for appearance lies with the students and their parents, appearance disruptive to the education program will not be tolerated. When in the judgment of a principal a student's appearance or mode of dress disrupts the educational process or constitutes a threat to health or safety, the student may be required to make modifications.

Students are expected to adhere to standards of cleanliness and dress that are compatible with the requirements of a good learning environment. The Board expects students to be clean and well-groomed and wear clothes in good repair and appropriate for the time, place, and occasion.

The following items are prohibited in school buildings:

  • Any item of clothing that disrupts the learning process

  • Clothing that promotes illegal products or acts (including those illegal to minors)

  • Clothing that contains explicit violent or suggestive sexual content

  • Clothing that is deemed obscene or profane

It is the responsibility of the Superintendent or superintendent's designee, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy so the standards will be consistent across the District.


504.03

STUDENTS

Search and Seizure

District property is held in public trust by the Board. District authorities may, without a search warrant, search students, student lockers, personal effects, desks, work areas, or student vehicles based on a reasonable and articulable suspicion that a District policy, rule, regulation, or law has been violated. The search shall be in a manner reasonable in scope to maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students, employees, and visitors to the District facilities.

School authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized, or contraband materials discovered in the search. Items of contraband may include, but are not limited to, nonprescription controlled substances, marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, apparatus used for controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, weapons, explosives, poisons, and stolen property. Such items are not to be possessed by a student while they are on District property or on property within the jurisdiction of the District; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered buses; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management, and welfare of the District. Possession of such items will be grounds for disciplinary action as specified in Policy 504.01 Discipline Policy. The Board believes that illegal, unauthorized, or contraband materials may cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or presents a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors on the District premises or property within the jurisdiction of the District.

Periodically a drug sniffing dog will be used to check lockers and parking lots as a regular part of the substance abuse prevention program.

It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent, or superintendent's designee, in conjunction with the principals, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.


504.04

STUDENT

 Substance Abuse

DISTRICT GOAL

The goal of the District is to develop an atmosphere that will eliminate the use of alcohol and other drugs by students. District policies and procedures address the broad scope of the alcohol and drug problem.

PHILOSOPHY

The District recognizes that the use of alcohol and other drugs and the problems associated with such use are increasing in our society, especially among youth. An individual's use of alcohol or other drugs may be deemed destructive to the individual or to others. Support can be offered through prevention, intervention, and assistance involving the home, school, and community.

JURISDICTION

No student is allowed to have a substance in possession or have consumed any substance on school grounds or off school grounds while the student is attending or participating in a school-sponsored activity. Any substance found in the possession or control of a student shall be confiscated and turned over to the appropriate authority.

DEFINITION

The Iowa Code Chapter 204 defines a dangerous drug as any alcoholic beverage or controlled substance (e.g. opiates, narcotics, hallucinogens, stimulants, cocaine, and depressants) which is illegal without a doctor's prescription.  The district has expanded our definition to include inhalants and tobacco products.  This policy applies to "look alike" substances that appear to be an alcoholic beverage or a controlled substance.

TYPE OF VIOLATIONS

POSSESSION:

Having on one's person/effects any substances or "look alikes" noted in Iowa Code 204 and identified in the District's definition statement or having on one's person/effects any substance-related paraphernalia while on school property or at school-sponsored activities is prohibited.

USE:

Consumption of substances noted in Iowa Code 204 and identified in the District's definition statement on school property or at school-sponsored activities is prohibited. Arriving at school or at school-sponsored activities after having consumed substances noted in Iowa Code 204 and identified in the District's definition statement on school property or at school-sponsored activities is prohibited. 

MANUFACTURING:

The reproduction or creation of substances and related paraphernalia on school property or at school-sponsored activities is prohibited.

DELIVERY/TRANSFER/SALE:

The delivery/transfer/sale of substances or paraphernalia on school property or at school-sponsored activities is prohibited.

STAFF RESPONSIBILITY

1.      The District recognizes the responsibility to educate its staff and support personnel regarding the general signs and symptoms of substance use and abuse.

2.      The District recognizes the responsibility of staff and support personnel to refer students who are suspected of using a controlled substance to the designated authority.

3.      The District further recognizes its responsibility to establish relationships with the agencies and organizations in the community that may provide assessment, treatment, and support services.

CURRICULUM

In accordance with Iowa Code 256.11(6) (j) which states that health education shall teach awareness of the effects of alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and poisons on the human body, the District supports comprehensive    (K-12) substance abuse education.

CONSEQUENCES

The use or possession of tobacco, alcohol or any controlled substance, as defined in the Uniform Controlled Substances Act, by any student on school property or while attending a school function as a participating representative of the school is prohibited. Building administrators may recommend a substance abuse evaluation at a state approved alcohol/drug agency in the community. Compliance with such recommendation(s) is expected. Suspension/expulsion may occur.

PROCEDURES FOR ALL PERSONNEL

Procedures to be followed for students under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or other dangerous drugs:

a.    If a student appears to be displaying unusual behavior in or out of the classroom due to the possibility of some dangerous or illegal substance, a staff member shall notify the administrator or designee who will determine the seriousness of the situation.

b.   When necessary, standard emergency procedures shall be followed as outlined in the Health Room Manual.

  1. Parents must be contacted as soon as possible. Parents or guardians shall be advised that the child is displaying unusual or dangerous behavior. The staff person shall describe the behavior but not attempt to diagnose the student's condition.
  2. While waiting for parents or further medical aid, the student shall not be left alone but should be placed in a quiet situation, and remain under observation.

e.   It is the responsibility of the school administrator in charge of such matters to ensure that follow-up communication with parent and student occurs as soon as possible to determine the cause of the unusual behavior.

f.    If abuse is determined, the school administrator designee shall have a conference with the parents and the student to work out strategies for avoiding future occurrences.

 

·        By action of the Board 9/19/88; Revised 6/12/95; Revised 11/26/01; Revised 8/9/10

·        Edited 11/01; 8/10


504.05

STUDENTS

Expulsion/Exclusion*

(*Expulsion/Exclusion or Expel/Exclude or Expelled or Excluded)

DEFINITIONS:

Expulsion: The final removal of a student from his or her school of attendance for disciplinary purposes.

Exclusion: Special education students are subject to additional criteria because of an IEP that may result in a determination to exclude rather than expel.

It shall be within the discretion of the Superintendent to recommend to the Board the expulsion* of a student for disciplinary purposes. Only the Board may take action to expel* a student and to determine the terms for readmission. It shall be within the discretion of the Board to expel* a student depending upon the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding the offense, and the age of the student. A student may be expelled* for a period to be determined by the Board from five days up to one school calendar year for violations of Board Policy, including 504.01 Discipline Policy, school rules, or the law. (In accordance with the law, a student who is expelled* for possession or use of a projectile firearm, as defined in Iowa Code 724.1, must be expelled* for a period of not less than one year.) The expulsion* may be for a single offense or a series of offenses.

When a student is expelled*, the student may not:

a. Attend classes or be present on any District property  except as provided under the terms of the expulsion*

b. Participate in extra-curricular activities

c. Attend student activities

When a student is recommended for expulsion* by the Board, the student shall be provided with timely written notice of the time, date, place of hearing, and the following:

1. The names of witnesses who may testify, a summary of facts to which each witness may testify, and a copy of any documents that will be used as evidence. The names of students from whom oral or written statements were taken may be released at the discretion of the Superintendent.

2. Copies of all documents that may be introduced into evidence.

3. An opportunity to present a defense against the charges, to cross examine witnesses testifying at the hearing, and to provide oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student’s behalf.

4. The right to be represented by counsel at the student’s expense.

5. The right to a closed hearing, unless an open hearing is requested by the student.

6. Written notice of the decision and findings of the Board.

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

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

During a period of expulsion*, the Board may authorize the Superintendent to design an individualized prescription for readmission that could include any or all of the following:

a. Regular reporting to a staff member

b. Saturday supervision or activities

c. Community service with local agencies

d. Readings in basic courses of the curriculum

e. Visitation to detention centers

f. Conferences with police liaison officers

g. Volunteer work at local businesses

h. Physical exercise

i. Participation on a rehabilitative program addressing the problem evident in the offense.

A student may be required to participate in the above activities prior to being considered for readmission and present evidence to that effect to the Administrative Advisory Council. It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent or superintendent's designee to carry out the motion passed by the Board. To keep the Board informed about the progress of students, the Superintendent or superintendent's designee should present the Board with quarterly reports on the expulsions, exclusions, or alternative placements.

To the extent that this policy conflicts with any state or federal law, the policy shall not be applied.

 


504.06

STUDENTS

Parent’s and Student’s Rights

 

Please refer to Policy #503.06

 

  • Cross Reference: 
  • By action of the Board 1/17/77; Revised 4/11/83; Revised 1/27/97; Revised 4/23/01; Revised 12/16/06; Combined and Revised 9/17/07; Deleted 6/14/10
  • Edited 9/07; 6/10


504.07

STUDENTS

Harassment: Students (Deleted 4/23/12 Combined with 504.10)
 


504.08

STUDENTS

Good Conduct Rule    

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

Students who fail to abide by this policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures.  The Assistant Principal for Student Activities shall keep records of violations of the good conduct rule.

It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent or superintendent's designee to adopt rules and regulations for school activities. Students wanting to participate in school activities must meet the requirements set out by the District for participation in the activity.

 

·         Cross Reference: Board Policy #504.01 Discipline Policy

·        By action of the Board 4/27/98; Revised 8/12/02; Revised 6/14/10

·        Edited 8/02; 6/10


504.09

STUDENTS

 

Cell Phones and Electronic Devices

 

The Board recognizes the potential need for our students to communicate with their families under certain circumstances while they are attending school. The District offers the use of school phones as the first means of communication if the need arises during and after school hours.

 We want to ensure that cell phones or other electronic devices do not interfere with classroom instruction or cause any other problems for students or staff while on District property. During the instructional day, students may not use cell phones or other electronic devices unless given written permission from the principal/assistant principal.

 During the instructional day, students are prohibited from using any cell phone or other electronic device to access a wireless connection to the internet.  However, the classroom teacher may give consent to use electronic devices for instructional purposes.

 Under no circumstances are cell phones or other electronic devices to be used to take photos or audio/video recordings of students in locker rooms, restrooms, or other private situations at school or at District sponsored activities.

 It is the responsibility of the Superintendent or superintendent’s designee, in conjunction with the building principals, to develop a standard administrative regulation for this policy to provide consistency throughout the District for students.

 

  • Cross References: Board Policy #504.01 Discipline Policy; Administrative Regulation 504.09A

  • By Action of the Board:  Adopted 4/11/05; Revised 10/26/09

  • Edited: 4/05, 10/09

 

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504.10

STUDENTS

 

Anti-Bullying/Anti-Harassment Policy: Students

 

It is the policy of the District to maintain an educational environment free from discrimination, bullying and harassment.  The District is committed to providing its students with a safe and civil school environment in which all members of the school community are treated with dignity and respect.  To that end, the District has in place policies, procedures, and practices prohibiting discrimination and designed to reduce and eliminate bullying and harassment, as well as processes and procedures to address incidents of bullying and harassment.

 

Policy of Nondiscrimination.  No student in the Davenport Community School District shall be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in District programs on the basis of race, color, creed, ancestry, national origin, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, parental/familial status, socioeconomic status, or any other trait or characteristic protected by law.  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 District policy.  The District prohibits harassment, bullying, hazing, or any other victimization of students based on the student's actual or perceived traits or characteristics, including:  age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, familial status, or any other trait or characteristic protected by law.

 

This policy applies to bullying or harassment of students by other students, school employees, parents/guardians, or volunteers.  This policy also governs vendors or any others having business or contact with District students.

 

This policy is in effect while students are on property within the jurisdiction of the District; while on school-owned or school-operated vehicles; while attending or engaged in school-sponsored activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school or school district.

 

Harassment and Bullying Defined.  When looking at the totality of the circumstances, harassment and bullying mean any electronic (such as emails or text messages), written, or verbal communication or physical act or conduct toward a student that is based on an actual or perceived trait or characteristic noted above that creates an objectively hostile school environment.  An objectively hostile school environment may be created if the communication, act or conduct:

 

  • Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to the student's person or property;
  • Has a substantially detrimental effect on the student's physical or mental health;
  • 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 services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

 

"Electronic" means any communication involving the transmission of information by wire, radio, optical cable, electromagnetic, or other similar means.  "Electronic" includes but is not limited to communication via electronic mail, internet-based communications, pager service, cell phones, electronic text messaging or similar technologies.

 

Harassment and bullying may include, but are not limited to, the following behaviors and circumstances:

 

  • Repeated remarks of a demeaning nature;
  • Implied or explicit threats concerning one's person, property, grades, participation, achievements, etc.;
  • Demeaning jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student;
  • Unreasonable interference with a student's performance;
  • Name-calling, derogatory slurs, or wearing or possessing items depicting or implying hatred or prejudice of one of the protected classes noted above;
  • 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; or
  • Requiring submission to or rejection of such conduct as a basis for decisions affecting the student.

 

Racial Harassment Defined.  By way of example of how the above applies to a specific protected trait, the District provides the following guidance regarding prohibited bullying and harassment based on race.

 

Racial harassment consists of physical or verbal conduct toward a student that is based on that student's race that creates an objectively hostile school environment.  An objectively hostile school environment may be created if the communication, act or conduct:

 

  • Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to the student's person or property;
  • Has a substantially detrimental effect on the student's physical or mental health;
  • 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 services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

 

Examples of conduct that may constitute harassment based on race include:  graffiti containing racially offensive language; name-calling, jokes or rumors based on race; threatening or intimidating conduct directed at another because of the other's race; notes or cartoons; racial slurs, negative stereotypes and hostile acts based on another's race; written or graphic material containing racial comments or stereotypes that are posted or circulated and are aimed at degrading individuals based on race; a physical act or aggression or assault on another because of, or in a manner reasonably related to, race; and other kinds of aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property that is motivated by race.  This conduct may also constitute harassment when based on any other protected status noted above.

 

Sexual Harassment Defined.  It is a violation of this policy for any person to harass a student through conduct or communications of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual acts or favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

 

  • Submission to the conduct is made either implicitly or explicitly a term or condition of the student's education or benefits;
  • Submission to or rejection of the conduct is used as the basis for academic decisions affecting that student;
  • The conduct has the purpose or effect of depriving a student of education aid, benefits, services, or treatment; or
  • The conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with the student's academic performance by creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive education environment. 

 

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

 

  • Requests or pressure for sexual activity;
  • Unwelcome touching; or
  • Other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, such as inappropriate jokes or pictures, teasing related to sexual characteristics, unwanted discussions of sexual activities, or repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications.

 

Reporting Instances of Bullying or Harassment, including Sexual Harassment.  Students who believe they are being bullied or harassed by other students, employees, parents/guardians, or volunteers or who have witnessed bullying or harassment are strongly encouraged to report the conduct immediately to the Building Principal, Assistant Building Principal, or the Equity Coordinator. 

 

Any employee who observes bullying or harassing behavior or receives notice that a student may have been the subject of bullying or harassing behavior shall immediately report the incident to his or her Building Principal.

 

Upon receipt of a report or complaint alleging bullying or harassment, the Building Principal or Assistant Building Principal shall immediately notify the Equity Coordinator.  The Equity Coordinator is located at 1606 Brady Street; Davenport, Iowa 52803; phone 563/336-3805.

 

The complainant may be required to complete a written form and to turn over copies of evidence of harassment or bullying including but not limited to letters, emails, and pictures.  The complainant and the accused's confidentiality will be respected to the extent possible but confidentiality cannot be guaranteed given the necessity of the District to investigate the allegations of misconduct and to take corrective action when the alleged conduct has occurred.

 

Investigation.  The Equity Coordinator or his or her designee will investigate any and all complaints of harassment.  The investigation of the complaint will be undertaken promptly.  Both the complainant and accused will be given an opportunity to provide a statement.  The investigator will also interview others who may have knowledge of the alleged incident or the circumstances giving rise to the complaint and evaluate any information or documents relevant to the complaint.  This information may include emails, texts, videotapes, or any other physical evidence.

 

District employees, students, parents/guardians, and volunteers shall fully and fairly cooperate in the investigation.  The District will take action to stop the harassment, remedy the harassment, prevent recurrence, and take immediate interim measures to protect the complainant, if necessary.

 

Individuals who knowingly file false harassment or bullying complaints and any person who gives false statements in an investigation shall be subject to discipline by appropriate measures, up to and including suspension, expulsion, or exclusion.

 

Unless extenuating circumstances prevent otherwise, the investigation shall be completed no later than ten (10) school days from the receipt of the complaint.  The Equity Coordinator or his or her designee shall draft a written report upon completion of the investigation.  The report shall include a determination of whether the allegation has been substantiated as factual and whether there is a violation of this policy. 

 

The investigator will consider the totality of circumstances presented in determining whether conduct objectively constitutes harassment or bullying.  In regard to complaints regarding a hostile environment, the investigator will determine if the alleged harassment is so severe, pervasive or persistent that it creates an abusive environment, when looked at both objectively (meaning that a "reasonable person" would find the environment hostile) and subjectively (meaning the affected individual felt the environment was hostile).  The investigator will examine the context, nature, scope, frequency, duration, history, and location of incidents, as well as the identity, number, and relationships of the persons involved. 

 

A summary of the report, including a finding that the complaint was founded, unfounded, or inconclusive will be forwarded to the complainant and to the accused and to the complainant and accused's parent or guardian (if appropriate). 

 

The Equity Coordinator shall be responsible for maintaining the written reports for at least five (5) years.

 

If the complaint involves the Equity Coordinator the investigation and report will be completed by the Director of Human Resources. 

 

 Corrective Action.  Acts of harassment or bullying may be grounds for discipline.  Upon receipt of the report of the Equity Coordinator that a violation has occurred, the District will take prompt, appropriate formal or informal action to address, and where appropriate, remediate the violation.  Discipline may include suspension, expulsion or exclusion of a student, termination of an employee, and exclusion of a parent/guardian or volunteer from District activities or school premises.  In addition, the District may take action other than discipline to halt harassment or bullying including counseling, training, teacher-parent conferences, transfer, remediation, or other appropriate corrective action.

 

No Retaliation.  No person shall retaliate against any person because the person has filed a bullying or harassment complaint, assisted or participated in an investigation, or opposed conduct that violates this policy.  Any student found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to and including suspension, exclusion or expulsion.  Any school employee found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to and including termination of employment. Any school volunteer or parent/guardian found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to and including exclusion from school grounds.

 

Annual Assessment.  The District may undertake an annual assessment of the effectiveness of its anti-bullying/anti-harassment efforts.  This assessment may include a review of policies, procedures, training, and any reports of bullying/harassment made during the previous year, including the determination and resolution of such reports.  The Equity Coordinator will conduct the assessment and evaluate the effectiveness of the District's anti-bullying/anti-harassment efforts.  If appropriate, the Equity Coordinator will propose revisions.  The assessment and evaluation shall be documented in a written report, which the Equity Coordinator will maintain for seven years.

 

Notification.  The District will annually publish this policy. Publication may occur by inclusion in handbooks, including those for students, employees, and volunteers; inclusion in registration materials; and/or inclusion on the school or District's website.  A copy of this policy is available at the central administrative office at 1606 Brady Street, Davenport, Iowa 52803. 

 

 

 

 

·         Cross Reference: Board Policy 401.42 Harassment: Personnel; 401.46 Student Abuse by Employees (includes reference to level I & II);  Administrative Regulation 504.10A, 504.10B, 504.10C

·         Legal References:  20 U.S.C. §§ 1221-1234i (2004); 29 U.S.C. § 794 (1994); 42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d-2000d-7 (2004); 42 U.S.C. §§ 12001 et.seq. (2004); Senate File 61, 1st Regular Session, 82nd General Assembly (2007); Iowa Code §§ 280.12; 280.28; 216.9; 280.3; 216.9 (2007); 281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).

·         Adopted by the Board: Adoption 10/10/05; Revised 10/08/07; Revised 09/29/08

·         Edited: 09/08; Revised 4/12