The school calendar will accommodate the education program of the school district.  The school calendar is for a minimum of [180 days or 1080 hours] and includes, but is not limited to, the days for student instruction, staff development, in-service days and teacher conferences.  Each year the minimum school calendar may include up to 5 days or 30 hours of instruction delivered primarily over the internet. 

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

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

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

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

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

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy  and reflects Iowa law.

Approved: 
August 11, 1975

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

August 14, 2023

The student school day for grades one through twelve will consist of a minimum of six hours, not including the lunch period.  The school day consists of the schedule of class instruction and class activities as established and sponsored by the school district.  Time during which students are released from school for parent/teacher conferences may be counted as part of students’ instructional time.  The minimum school day will meet the requirements as established for the operation of accredited schools.

The board may define the number of days kindergarten will be held and the length of each school day for the students attending kindergarten.  The school day will consist of a schedule as recommended by the superintendent and approved by the board.

The school district may also record a day of school with less than the minimum instructional hours if the total hours of instructional time for grades one through twelve in any five consecutive school days equals a minimum of thirty hours, even though any one day of school is less than the minimum instructional hours because of a staff development opportunity provided for the instructional staff or parent-teacher conferences have been scheduled beyond the regular school day.  If the total hours of instructional time for the first four consecutive days equal at least thirty hours because parent-teacher conferences have been scheduled beyond the regular school day, the school district may record zero hours of instructional time on the fifth consecutive school day as a school day.  Schedule revisions and changes in time allotments will be made by the superintendent.

When the school is forced to close due to weather or other emergencies, the part of the day during which school was in session will constitute a school day.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to inform the board annually of the length of the school day.

Legal Reference:        
Iowa Code § 256.7, 279.8, .10 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.1(1), .1(7-10).

Approved:

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

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

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

• Study the latest thinking, trends research and expert advice regarding the content/discipline;
• Study the current status of the content/discipline (what and how well students are currently learning);
• Identify content standards, benchmarks, and grade level expectations for the content/discipline;
• Describe the desired learning behaviors, teaching and learning environment related to the content/discipline;
• Identify differences in the desired and present program and develop a plan for addressing the differences;
• Communicate with internal and external public regarding the content ara;
• Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum development decisions;
• Verify how the standards and benchmarks of the content/discipline support each of the broader student learning goals and provide a K-12 continuum that builds on the prior learning of each level:
• Ensure proposed curriculum complies with applicable laws;
• Align annual improvement goals with needs assessment information.

It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent to keep the Board apprised of necessary curriculum revisions, progress of each content area related to curriculum development activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum development including recommendations to the Board.

Legal Reference:        
20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2010).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2010).
Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.7, 279.8; 280.3 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.5, .8.

Approved:
June 19, 1989

Reviewed:
November 14, 2022

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

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

• Understanding the conceptual framework of the content/discipline being implemented; and,
• Organized assistance to understand the theory, observe exemplary demonstrations, have opportunities to practice, and receive coaching and feedback focused on the most powerful instructional strategies to deliver the content at the classroom level.
• Ensure the curriculum framework complies with applicable laws;
• Provide professional development to staff to support effective curriculum implementation.

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

• Study and identify the best instructional practices and materials to deliver the content;
• Describe procedures for the purchase of instructional materials and resources. (See Policy 605.1).
• Identify/develop exemplars that demonstrate the learning behaviors, teaching, and learning environment to deliver the content.
• Study the current status of instruction in the content area (how teachers are teaching);
• Compare the desired and present delivery system, identify differences (gap analysis), and develop a plan for addressing the differences;
• Organize staff into collaborative study teams to support their learning and implementation efforts (address the gaps);
• Provide ongoing professional development related to instructional strategies and materials that focuses on theory, demonstration, practice and feedback;
• Regularly monitor and assess the level of implementation;
• Communicate with internal and external publics regarding curriculum implementation;
• Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum implementation decisions.

It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent to keep the Board apprised of curriculum implementation activities, progress of each content area related to curriculum implementation activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum implementation including recommendations to the Board.

Legal Reference:        
20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2010).
34 C.F.R. pt. 98 (2010).
Iowa Code §§ 216.9, 256.7, 279.8, 280.3 (2013).
281 I.A.C.  12.8.

Date of Adoption:                                                      
August 11, 1975

Date of Review:
November 14, 2022

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

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

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

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

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

It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent to keep the Board apprised or curriculum evaluation activities, the progress of each content area related to curriculum evaluation activities, and to develop administrative regulations for curriculum evaluation including recommendations to the Board.

Legal Reference:        
20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2010).
34 C.F.R. pt. 98 (2010).
Iowa Code §§ 216.9, 256.7, 279.8, 280.3 (2013).
281 I.A.C.  12.8.

Date of Adoption:
June 19, 1989

Date of Review:
November 14, 2022

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

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

Legal Reference:        
20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2010).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2010).
Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .10; 280.3 (20113).
281 I.A.C. 12.5, .8.

Approved:

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

The district believes in the importance of education to shape the lives of all students. Some students may consider postsecondary education and training beyond their secondary education, and have questions related to the cost of education programs and the future employability of graduates. It is valuable for students who express an interest in postsecondary education to make informed decisions related to their future options.  

The district will ensure that students in grades eleven and twelve who express interest in postsecondary education will be provided with basic information to assist in their decision-making. This information includes but may not be limited to: 

• A link to the annual report published by the State Board of Regents pursuant to Iowa Code 262.9(38); and
• a link to the Iowa Student Outcomes internet site maintained by the Department of Education.

If the district employs a college and career transition counselor, this staff member will provide the information to interested students. If the district does not employ this type of counselor, the superintendent will designate a staff member to ensure this information is provided to interested students. 
 

NOTE: This policy is not mandatory, but the second and third paragraphs are legal requirements for school districts.

Cross References

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

• The board, in its discretion, may offer summer school for one or more courses and student activities for students who need additional help and instruction or for enrichment in those areas. Upon receiving a request for summer school, the board will weigh the benefit to the students and the school district as well as the school district's budget and availability of licensed employees to conduct summer school.
• If a child who is eligible for special education has been determined to need extended school year services as necessary to receive a free appropriate public education, as determined according to state and federal law, such services shall be provided as described in the child’s individualized education program.
• In additional instances as provided by law.

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

Legal Reference:        
Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .11, .68; 280.3; 282.6 (2015).
Iowa Admin. Code. r. 281—41.106 (2015).

Approved: 
October 12, 2015                               

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

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

Legal Reference:        
Board of Education v. Rowley, 458 U.S. 176 (1982).
Springdale School District #50 v. Grace, 693 F.2d 41 (8th Cir. 1982).
Southeast Warren Comm. School District v. Dept. of Public
Instruction, 285 N.W.2d 173 (Iowa 1979).
20 U.S.C. §§1400 et seq. (2010).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 300 et seq. (2010).
Iowa Code §§ 256.11(7); 256B; 273.1, .2, .5, .9(2)-(3); 280.8 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 41.109; 41.404

Approved:

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

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

Approved:    
July 3, 2013

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

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

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

Approved:
June 18, 1990

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

 August 14, 2023

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

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

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

• the student is enrolled in academic courses not otherwise available, or
• the student has obtained a physical education waiver for a semester because the student is actively involved in an athletic program.
• The student is participating in the Legislative Page Program at the state capitol for a regular session of the general assembly; or
• The student is enrolled in a junior reserve officer training corps

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

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

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

Approved:          
August 9, 2021

Date of Review:          
August 9, 2021

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

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

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

Approved:

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure the study of religion in the schools in keep with the following guidelines:

• the proposed activity must have secular purpose;
• the primary objective of the activity must not be one that advances or inhibits religion; and
• the activity must not foster excessive governmental entanglement with religion.

Legal Reference:

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

Approved: 
January 9, 2023

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

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

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

Approved:

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

Because of our growing interdependence with other nations in the world, global education is incorporated into the education program for grades kindergarten through twelve so that students have the opportunity to acquire a perspective on world issues, problems, and prospects for an awareness of the relationship between an individual's self-interest and the concerns of people elsewhere in the world. 

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

Date of Adoption:                                                      
June 19, 1989                                                             

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

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

Approved:

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Approved:
January 13, 1992

Reviewed:
August 9, 2021

The Board of Directors (Board) recognizes some students require qualitative differentiated programming beyond the regular education program.  The Board shall identify students with special abilities and provide educational programming.

It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent of Schools (Superintendent) or designee to develop a talented and gifted program.

It shall also be the responsibility of the Superintendent or designee to develop administrative regulations for identifying students, for program evaluation and for training of School District personnel.

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

Date of Adoption:                                                                              
June 19, 1989                                                               

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

The Board of Directors (Board) recognizes that some students require additional assistance in order to graduate from the regular education program.  The Board shall provide a program to encourage and provide an opportunity for students at risk to achieve their potential and obtain their high school diploma.

It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent of Schools (Superintendent) or designee to develop a program for students at risk.

It shall also be the responsibility of the Superintendent or designee to develop administrative regulations for identifying students, for program evaluation, and for the training of school district personnel.

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

Date of Adoption:                                                      
June 19, 1989

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

• The notice is in writing;
• The objection is based on religious beliefs;
• The objection will state which activities or studies violate their religious beliefs;
• The objection will state why these activities or studies violate their religious beliefs; and
• The objection will state a proposed alternate activity or study.

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

Date of Adoption:                                                      
January 9, 2023

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Approved:                                                                  
March 13, 1989                                                          

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

July 10, 2023

Revised:

July 10, 2023

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

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

A dual enrollment student or the student's parent, guardian, legal or actual custodian will not be responsible for the cost of the student's annual evaluation.

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

It is the responsibility of the dual enrollment student to inform the school district of the extracurricular and academic activities in which the student wishes to participate.

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

Date of Adoption:                                                      
January 13, 1992

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

• The student resided with his/her parents(s) or legal guardian;
• The student is in the United Sates with appropriate documentation (Form I-20) from the United States Department of Justice-Immigration and Naturalization Services; or
• The student is a participant in a recognized foreign exchange program; and, 
• The student is physically able to attend school and has provided the school district with such proof, including a current TB test.

It is the policy of the Algona Community School District that foreign exchange students are not eligible to receive a diploma, be eligible to graduate from, or participate in graduation while attending the Algona Community School District.

Legal Reference:        
Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).

Date of Adoption:                                                      
August 11, 1975

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

The parent, guardian or legal custodian registering for the Home School Assistance Program will agree to comply with the requirements established by the faculty of the program.

Students registered for the Home School Assistance Program will be counted in the basic enrollment.

It shall be the responsibility of the Superintendent or designee to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

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

Approved:                                                                  
February 14, 1994                                                      

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

The board has sole discretion to approve instructional materials for the school district.  This authority is delegated to licensed employees to determine which instructional materials, other than textbooks, will be utilized by and purchased by the school district. The Superintendent will provide licensed employees the necessary training to ensure selected instructional materials comply with applicable laws. All instructional materials are available for review upon request and subject to all applicable laws. 

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

In the case of textbooks, the board will make the final decision after receiving a recommendation from the superintendent.  The criteria stated above for selection of other instructional materials will apply to the selection of textbooks.  The superintendent may develop another means for the selection of textbooks.  Textbooks are reviewed as needed and at least every seven (7) years.

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

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

Reviewed:
December 12, 2022

August 14, 2023

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

Parents and guardians of students will be provided view-only access to select instructional materials. Select instructional and library materials include:

• A catalog of books available in the school library;
• Electronic textbooks and core materials that are written and published primarily for use in elementary and secondary school instruction, and are required by the classroom teacher for use by students;
• Relevant portions of required printed textbooks and materials, if it is practical for district staff to digitize and upload;
• Any other materials as determined by the classroom teacher.

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

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

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

Adopted: 
July 13, 2009

Reviewed:
November 14, 2022

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

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

Parents or guardians or students enrolled in the district have the ability to request that their student not be able to check out certain library materials.

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

Date of Adoption:
September 18, 1989

Date of Review:
November 14, 2022

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

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

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

Approved:                                                                  
June 19, 1989                                                             

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

Materials for the libraries will be acquired according to board policy, "Instructional Materials Selection."  The District may provide access to all parents and guardians of students enrolled in the district an online catalog of all books available to students in the school libraries.  This access will be displayed on the school district's website.  Any challenges to library materials will be handled following the process for handling challenges to instructional and library materials as established in board policy.

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

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

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

Date of Adoption:                                                      
July 10, 1989

Date of Review:
November 14, 2022

The district recognizes the importance of developing students into agile learners who are capable of addressing the complex needs of our future workforce. For this reason, the district has prioritized making available technology and programs that teach students to embrace modern technology and tools while fostering a secure learning environment for students to the extent reasonable. Because technology is a vital part of the school district curriculum, the Internet will be made available to employees and students. Appropriate and equitable use of the Internet will allow employees and students to access resources unavailable through traditional means.

Students will be able to access the Internet through their teachers. Individual student accounts and electronic mail addresses may be issued to students. Students may be permitted to use district-issued email addresses and Internet-based collaboration software to send and receive messages at school. 

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

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

• The standards and acceptable use of Internet services as set forth in the this policy and regulation;
• Student safety with regard to:
  • safety on the Internet.
  • appropriate behavior while online, on social networking websites, and
  • in chat rooms; and
  • cyberbullying awareness and response.
• Compliance with the E-rate requirements of the Children’s Internet Protection Act

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

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

Note:  This is a mandatory policy.  Parents must give permission to allow their children to access the internet according to the policy language; and districts are obligated to provide education/training on the safe use of the internet for students.

Cross References

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

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

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

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

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

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

Adopted:                                                        
July 13, 2009 

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

The size of each class shall depend upon the type of instruction needed to assist each student to develop individual academic and occupational capacities to the utmost.  Effective staff utilization shall also be considered in organizing and scheduling classroom instruction.

The Superintendent of Schools with the administrative staff are responsible to make recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding class size and are further instructed and directed to investigate new approaches and techniques in organizing and scheduling classroom instruction.

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

Approved:                                                                  
August 11, 1975

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

SCHOOL CEREMONIES AND OBSERVANCES

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

The district will provide and maintain a suitable flagstaff at each school site and raise the Iowa and United States flags each school day as weather conditions permit.  The district will display the United States flag and administer the Pledge of Allegiance in each 1st through 12th grade classroom on school days.

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

Legal Reference:
U.S. Const. amend. I.
Lee v. Weisman, 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992).
Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602 (1971).
Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County, 608 F.Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985).
Iowa Code § 279.8, 280.5.

Cross Reference: 603 Instructional Curriculum
604.5 Religious-Based Exclusion from a School Program

Approved:  September 13, 2021

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

The Board of Directors (Board) recognizes that a properly planned, well-conducted and carefully supervised field trip is a vital part of the curriculum of any classroom.  As such, student trips of significant educational value are to be encouraged.

Field trips shall have the approval of the building principal in advance of the trip.  Consent of the pupils' parent or guardian is required in advance of any excursion involving the use of public or private transportation services.

Any field trips or educational experience of more than two nights duration must have administrative and Board approval 60 days prior to the trip.  An appropriate application procedure shall be provided by the administration.  Staff members shall discuss any extended trip plans with the building principal prior to any planning with the students involved.

Activities sponsored by the official Iowa activity organizations are exempt from the aforementioned procedure, i.e., state tournaments, speech contests, etc.

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

Approved:                                                                  
August 11, 1975

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

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

Approved:

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

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

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

Approved:
August 11, 1975

Date of Review:
January 9, 2023

Health services are an integral part of assisting all students to increase learning, achievement, and performance.  Health services coordinate and support existing programs to assist each student in the achievement of an optimal state of physical, mental and social well-being.  Student health services ensure continuity and create linkages between school, home, and community service providers.  The school district’s needs, and resources determine the linkages.

Except in emergent care situations or child abuse assessments, the district will not administer invasive physical examinations or health screenings of a student that are not required by state or federal law without first obtaining the written consent of the student’s parent or guardian.  

• Emergent care situation means a sudden or unforeseen occurrence of onset of a medical or behavioral condition that could result in serious injury or harm to a student or others in the event immediate medical attention is not provided.  Emergent care situations include the need to screen a student or others for symptoms or exposures during an outbreak or public health event of concern as designated by the department of public health.  
• Invasive physical examination means any medical examination that involves the exposure of private body parts or any act during such examination that includes incision, insertion, or injection into the body, but does not include a hearing, vision, dental or scoliosis screening.  
• Student health screening means an intentionally planned, periodic process to identify if students may be at risk for a health concern and to determine if a referral for an in-depth assessment is needed to consider appropriate health services.  Student health screening does not include an episodic, individual screening done in accordance with professional licensed practice.

The superintendent, in conjunction with the (school nurse, health advisory committee, public health nurse, school health team, etc.) will develop administrative regulations implementing this policy.  The superintendent will provide a written report on the role of health services in the education program to the board annually.
 

Note:    This is a mandatory policy.  If a school district will be using federal money to perform physical exams or screenings on students, the school district must annually notify parents of the exam or screening except for hearing, vision or scoliosis.  The following language is suggested:

“The school district will annually notify parents of physical exams or screenings conducted on students except for vision, hearing or scoliosis.”
 

Cross References