200 Series: Board of Directors

200 Series: Board of Directors
Policy Manual
Grinnell-Newburg School District

200.1 Organization of the Board of Directors (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
200.2 Powers of the Board of Directors (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
200.3 Responsibilities of the Board of Directors (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 7/23/08, revised: 5/22/24)

200.4 Board Member Social Media Engagement (approved: 5/22/24, reviewed: , revised: )
201 Board of Directors’ Elections (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 7/23/08, revised: 5/22/24)
202.1 Qualifications (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
202.2 Oath of Office (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
202.3 Term of Office (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
202.4 Vacancies (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)

202.5 Student School Board Representatives (approved: 5/22/24, reviewed: , revised: )
203    Board of Directors’ Conflict of Interest (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
204    Code of Ethics (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
205    Board Member Liability (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
206.1 President (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 9/8/10, revised: 4/27/22)
206.2 Vice-President(approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 9/8/10, revised: 5/22/24)
206.3 Secretary (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
206.4 Treasurer (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
207    Board of Directors’ Legal Counsel (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
208    Ad Hoc Committees (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)

208.1E1 Ad Hoc Committees Exhibit (approved: 07/09/08, review: 5/22/24, revised: 8/13/08)
209.1 Development of Policy (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
209.2 Adoption of Policy (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
209.3 Dissemination of Policy (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
209.4 Suspension of Policy (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
209.5 Administration in the Absence of Policy (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 8/13/08)
209.6 Review and Revision of Policy (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 8/13/08)
209.7 Review of Administrative Regulations (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
210.1 Annual Meeting (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
210.2 Regular Meeting (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
210.3 Special Meeting (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
210.4 Work Sessions (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
210.5 Meeting Notice (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 7/23/08, revised: 5/22/24)
210.6 Quorum (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
210.7 Rules of Order (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
210.7R1 Rules of Order Regulation (approved: 5/22/24, reviewed: 4/27/22, revised: 8/13/08)
210.8 Board Meeting Agenda (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)

210.8E1 Board Meeting Agenda Example (approved: 5/22/24, reviewed: , revised: )

210.8E2 Board Meeting Agenda Example (with closed session) (approved: 5/22/24, reviewed: , revised: )
210.9 Consent Agendas (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
211 Open Meetings (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised:4/27/22)
212 Closed Sessions (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)

212.1 Exempt Meetings (approved: 5/22/24, reviewed: , revised: )
213 Public Participation in Board Meetings (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 7-23-08, revised: 5/22/24)

213.1 Public Complaints (approved: 5/22/24, reviewed: , revised: )
214 Public Hearings (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised:4/27/22)
215 Board of Directors’ Records (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 8/13/08)

215E1Board of Directors' Records-Board Meeting Minutes (approved: 5/22/24, reviewed: , revised: )
216.1 Association Membership (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 8/13/08)
216.2 Board of Directors’ Member Development and Training (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 4/27/22)
216.3 Board of Directors’ Member Compensation and Expenses (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 4/27/22, revised: 5/22/24)
217 Gifts to Board of Directors (approved: 7/9/08, reviewed: 5/22/24, revised: 8/13/08)

200.1 Organization of the Board of Directors

Code No. 200.1

ORGANIZATION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Grinnell-Newburg Community School District board is authorized by and derives its organization from Iowa law. The board will consist of seven board members (4 director districts and 3 at large). Board members are elected by the voters within the boundaries of the School District.

The board is organized for the purpose of setting policy and providing general direction for the school district. The board will hold its organizational meeting each year at the first regular meeting following the canvass of votes. The retiring board will transfer materials, including the board policy manual, and responsibility to the new board.

The organizational meeting allows the outgoing board to approve minutes of its previous meetings, complete unfinished business and review the school election results. The retiring board will adjourn and the new board will then begin. The board secretary will administer the oath of office to the newly-elected board members. The board secretary will preside while the new board elects the president and vice president of the new board.

NOTE: Iowa law establishes the organizational meeting at the first regular meeting following the canvass of votes.

Board members elected at a general election must qualify at or before the organizational meeting.

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 274.2; 275.23A; 277.23, .28, .31; 279.1, .5, .7, .8 , .33.

281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference: 202 Board of Directors Members

206.1 President

206.2 Vice-President

210 Board of Directors' Meetings

Approved: 07/09/08

Reviewed: 5/22/24

Revised: 04/27/22

200.1R1 Organizational Meeting Procedures

Code No. 200.1.R1

ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING PROCEDURES

The board will hold its organizational meeting annually at the first regular meeting following the canvass of votes. Notice of the meeting place and time will be given by the board secretary to each member, member-elect and the public.

The purpose of the meeting is to transfer material and responsibility from the outgoing board to the new board. At the meeting, the board will elect a president who will hold office for one year. Once elected, the president will be entitled to vote on all matters before the board.

Meeting Procedure

The organizational meeting of the board will be held in two parts: the final meeting of the outgoing boards, and the organizational meeting of the new board.

1. Final Meeting of the Retiring Board

Call to order.
Roll call.
Approval of minutes of previous meeting(s).
Communications.
Visitors.
Unfinished business.
1. Current claims and accounts (for the retiring board to authorize).
2. Other items. If any member of the board feels the board should consider any unfinished business, even if only to identify it as unfinished business, the member should address the issue at this time.
Examine and settle the books for the previous year.
Review of election results. The board secretary will present the county auditor's official report on the latest elections. Official results are recorded in the minutes.
Adjournment of the retiring board.

2. Organizational Meeting of the New Board

___________________ , as president pro-tem, will preside over the meeting until new board president is elected.
Call to order.
Roll call.
Oath of office. The board secretary will administer the oath to new members.
Election of a president of the board. The president pro-tem calls for nominations; nominations need not be seconded. The board will then vote on the nominations. The secretary will announce the result of the vote, and the secretary will administer the oath of office to the newly elected president and the newly elected president will assume the chair.
Election of the vice-president. The president of the board will call for nominations; the nominations need not be seconded. The board will then vote on the nominations. The president will announce the results and administer the oath of office to the vice-president.

Other items of business at the organizational meeting may include:

Board resolution of appreciation recognizing the public service rendered by retiring board members.
Determination of dates, times, and places for regular meetings of the board.
Board resolution to define the operating rules and practices that will be followed by the new board.
Board resolution to authorize the interim payment of bills pursuant to policy 705.5.
Communications.
Visitors.
Superintendent's report.
Adjournment.

NOTE: Board members elected at a regular school election must take the oath of office at or before the organization meeting. Failure to do so results in a vacancy.

NOTE: The board president and vice president are each elected to a one year term at the organizational meeting in odd-numbered years and at the annual meeting in even-numbered years.

Approved: 04/23/14

Reviewed: 05/22/24

Revised: 04/27/22

200.2 Powers of the Board of Directors

Code No. 200.2

POWERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The board, acting on behalf of the school district, will have jurisdiction over school matters within the territory of the school district.

The board is empowered to make policy for its own governance, for employees, for students, and for school district facilities. The board is also empowered to enforce its policies. The board may, through its quasi-judicial power, conduct hearings and rule on issues and disputes confronting the school district.

The board has these powers and all other powers expressly granted to it in federal and state law as well as the powers that can be reasonably implied from the express powers.

Legal Reference:
Board of Directors of Ind. School Dist. of Waterloo v. Green, 259 Iowa 1260,
147 N.W.2d 854 (1967).
Iowa Code §§ 28E; 274.1-.2; 279.8 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.1(2).
1990 Op. Att'y Gen. 66.

Cross Reference:
209 Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05/22/24

Revised: 04/27/22

200.3 Responsibilities of the Board of Directors

Code No. 200.3

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The board is authorized to govern the school district which it oversees. The board is entrusted with public funds and is responsible for overseeing the improvement of student outcomes, including student academic achievement and skill proficiency. As the governing board of the school district, the board has three duties to perform: legislative duty, executive duty and evaluative duty.

As a representative of the citizens of the school district community, the board is responsible for legislating policy for the school district. As a policy-making body, the board has jurisdiction to enact policy with the force and effect of law for the management and operation of the school district.

It is the responsibility of the board, under the board's executive duty, to select its chief executive officer, the superintendent, to operate the school district on the board's behalf. The board delegates to the superintendent its authority to carry out board policy, to formulate and carry out rules and regulations, and to handle the administrative details in a manner which supports and is consistent with board policy.

The board has a responsibility, under its evaluative duty, to review the education program's performance. The board regularly reviews the education program and ancillary services. The review includes a careful study and examination of the facts, conditions, and circumstances surrounding the amount of funds received and expended, and the education program's ability to achieve the board's educational philosophy and goals for the school district.

The board fulfills its quasi-judicial duties in serving as a neutral arbiter for hearings related to student suspension or expulsion proceedings and certain employment termination hearings and appeals. This important power was granted by the Iowa legislature and cannot be delegated. To preserve the board’s neutrality to hear and decide upon these matters, the board does not investigate or become involved in student disciplinary matters or employment matters that may come before it and would require the board to serve in its quasi-judicial role.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 279.1, .8, .20; 280.12 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2)

Cross Reference:
101    Educational Philosophy of the School District
103    Long-Range Needs Assessment
200.4 Board Member Social Media Engagement
209.1 Development of Policy
209.2. Adoption of Policy
209.3 Dissemination of Policy
209.4 Suspension of Policy
209.5 Administration in the Absence of Policy
209.6 Review of and Revision of Policy
209.7 Review of Adminstrative Regulations
302.1 Superintendent Qualifications, Recruitment, Appointment
600    Goals and Objectives of the Education Program

Approved: 07-09-08
Reviewed: 08-28-18
Revised: 05-22-24

200.4 Board Member Social Media Engagement

Code No. 200.4

BOARD MEMBER SOCIAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENT

The board sees the value in promoting the excellent work and accomplishments of the district’s students and staff. Social media is one of many effective communication tools that the district may utilize. Board members have been publicly elected to govern the district and accept a fiduciary responsibility. That responsibility means board members agree to always act in the best interests of the district. For this reason, the board shall expect that individual communications and social media posts made by board members will reflect the values and decorum expected of elected officials in the school community.

All board members enjoy rights to freedom of speech under both the U.S. and Iowa Constitutions. As such, the district will not limit protected speech of any board members. Certain categories of speech are not protected and may be subject to regulation. Additionally, board members should be aware that protected speech can still subject individuals to legal liability. If using social media to discuss district related matters, board members should be aware that they may be prohibited from blocking individual communications and posters based upon the content of their posts.

The board as a whole and individual board members in their governance role have legal obligations to safeguard the privacy of information related to student and employee matters. Board members will refrain from posting or communicating on social media in a way that violates the district’s obligation to protect the privacy of its students and employees.

Board members are uniquely positioned in the school community to be both accessible and responsive to community concerns about the effective governance of the district. As a result, the board will remember their obligations to safeguard student and employee privacy when responding to any social media posts or communications, even if the response is intended to correct information for the rest of the school community. Board members will direct concerned individuals to the appropriate district staff to address their inquiry or complaint in accordance with board policy.

Legal Reference: U.S. Const. Amend. I
Iowa Const. Art. I, sec. 7
20 U.S.C. 1417(c)
34 C.F.R. 99.3
Iowa Code §§ 21; 22

Cross Reference: 200.3 Responsiblities of the Board of Directiors
902.1 News Media Relations

Approved: 5/22/24, Reviewed: , Revised:

201 Board of Directors' Elections

Code No. 201

BOARD OF DIRECTORS' ELECTIONS

The school election takes place on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of odd-numbered years. Each annual school election is held to elect at least one citizen to the board to maintain a seven member board and to address other questions that are submitted to the voters.

Citizens of the school district community seeking a seat on the board must file their nomination papers with the board secretary, or the board secretary's designee in accordance with the timelines established by law.

If a vacancy occurs on the board it shall be filled in accordance with law and board policy.

It is the responsibility of the county commissioner of elections to conduct school elections.

NOTE: This policy states the legal requirements for school board elections and the filling of Vacancies.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 39; 45; 47-53; 56-57; 63, 69; 274.7; 277; 278.1, 279.7 (2013).

Cross Reference:
202.1 Qualifications
202.2 Oath of Office
202.3. Term of Office
202.4 Vaccancies
203 Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest

Approved: 07-09-08
Reviewed: 08-28-18
Revised: 05-22-24

202.1 Qualifications

Code No. 202.1

QUALIFICATIONS

Serving on the board of directors is an honor and privilege. Its rewards are respect from the community, students, and employees and the satisfaction from knowing each board member contributed to the success of the children in the school district community. Only those who are willing to put forth the effort to care and to make a difference should consider running for a position on the board.

Individuals who are willing to serve on the board should believe public education is important, support the democratic process, willingly devote time and energy to board work, respect educators and have the ability to examine the facts and make a decision. The board believes an individual considering a position on the school board should possess these characteristics.

Citizens wanting to run for a position on the board must be a citizen of the school district, an eligible elector of the district and free from a financial conflict of interest with the position.

NOTE: The last paragraph states the legal requirements to run for the school board. An individual must be an eligible elector in order to run for the school board. An eligible elector need not be registered to vote. An eligible elector needs only to be eligible to be registered to vote. Also, a spouse/partner of an employee may run for the board. Details on conflict of interest are in Policy 203, Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 63; 68B; 277.4, .27; 279.7A (2013).

Cross Reference:
201 Board of Directors' Elections
202.4 Vacancies
203 Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

202.2 Oath of Office

Code No. 202.2

OATH OF OFFICE

Board members are officials of the state. As a public official, each board member must pledge to uphold the Iowa and the United States Constitution, and carry out the responsibilities of the office to the best of the board member's ability.

Each newly-elected board member will take the oath of office prior to any action taken as a school official. The oath of office is taken by each new board member at or before the organizational meeting of the board. In the event of an appointment or special election to fill a vacancy, the new board member will take the oath of office within ten days of the appointment or election.

Board members elected to offices of the board will also take the same oath of office but replace the office of board member with the title of the office to which they were elected.

The oath of office is administered by the board secretary and does not need to be given at a board meeting. In the event the board secretary is absent, the oath is administered by another board member.

"Do you solemnly swear that you will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the state of Iowa, and that you will faithfully and impartially to the best of your ability discharge the duties of the office of _________________ (naming the office) in the Grinnell-Newburg Community School District as now and hereafter required by law?"

NOTE: Board members elected at the regular election do not need to take the oath of office within 10 days. Those elected at a special election or appointed to fill a vacancy, however, must take the oath of office within 10 days.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 277.28; 279.1, .6 (2013).

Cross Reference:
200.1 Organization of the Board of Directors
201    Board of Directors' Elections
202    Board of Directors Members
204    Code of Ethics
206    Board of Directors' Officers

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

202.3 Term of Office

Code No. 202.3

TERM OF OFFICE

Board members elected for a full term at a regularly scheduled school election in November, of odd-numbered years, serve for four years. Board members appointed to fill a vacant position will serve until a successor is elected and qualified at the next regular school election, unless there is an intervening special election for the school district, in which event a successor shall be elected at the intervening special election. A board member elected to fill a vacancy will serve out the unexpired term.

Being a board member is a unique opportunity for a citizen to participate on a governing board of the school district. Eligible board members are encouraged to consider running for more than one term.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 69.12; 274.7; 279.6-.7 (2013).

Cross Reference:
201 Board of Directors' Elections
202 Board of Directors Members

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

202.4 Vacancies

Code No. 202.4

VACANCIES

A vacancy occurs as provided by law, which includes but is not limited to when a board member dies, resigns or leaves office, or fails to reside in the school district or director district.

If a vacancy occurs prior to the expiration of a term of office, the vacancy will be filled by board appointment within 30 days of the vacancy. The board shall publish notice stating that the board intends to fill the vacancy by appointment, but the electors of the school district have the right to file a petition within 14 days of the publication of the notice requiring the vacancy be filled by a special election.

A person appointed to fill a vacancy shall hold office until a successor is elected and qualified at the next regular school election, unless there is an intervening special election for the school district, in which event a successor shall be elected at the intervening special election.

If the board is unable to fill a vacancy by appointment within 30 days after the vacancy occurs or if a valid petition is submitted, the board secretary will call a special election to be held no sooner than 60 days and not later than 70 days after the vacancy occurred. A board member elected at the special election will serve the remaining portion of the unexpired term.

NOTE: Special elections called because the board is unable to fill a vacancy by appointment within 30 days or called because a valid petition has been submitted are to be held 60-70 days after the vacancy occurs. These special elections are different than the special school elections (commonly called public measure elections), which are held on four specific dates each year as outlined in Iowa Code. The special elections called to fill a vacancy can be held at any time of the year.

Legal Reference:
Good v. Crouch, 397 N.W.2d 757 (Iowa 1986).
Board of Directors of Grimes Independent School Dist. v. County Board of
Public Instruction of Polk Co., 257 Iowa 106, 131 N.W.2d 802 (1965).
Board of Directors of Menlo Consol. School Dist. v. Blakesburg, 240 Iowa 910,
36 N.W.2d 751 (1949).
Iowa Code §§ 21.6(3)(d); 69; 277.29-.30; 279.6-.7 (2013).
1944 Op. Att'y Gen. 39.

Cross Reference:
201 Board of Directors' Elections
202 Board of Directors Members

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

202.5 Student School Board Representatives

The Board of Education believes it is important to seek out and consider student ideas, viewpoints, and opinions regarding the district’s educational program. To provide student input, the Board shall may include at least one non-voting representative(s) from the student body.

Student school board representative eligibility and duties:

The student school board representative shall be a full-time high school student in the district;
The student school board representative shall participate in an orientation of board responsibilities and procedures as determined by the Superintendent;
The student school board representative shall be eligible to participate in discussion, but not vote, at all regular board meetings held in open session;
The student school board representative shall be responsible for communicating board decisions and information to the student body; and
The student school board representative will be provided with and shall abide by all applicable sections of the Board Members’ Code of Ethics.

The term of office shall be during the school year

If the student school board representative is unable to attend a board meeting, the student school board representative must notify the Superintendent of the absence. A student school board representative who neglects his/her duties may be removed from the position at the discretion of the Board.

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8

Cross Reference: 204 Code of Ethics (1, II)
211 Open Meetings

Approved: 5-22-24, Reviewed: , Revised:

203 Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest

Code No. 203

BOARD OF DIRECTORS' CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Board members must be able to make decisions objectively. It is a conflict of interest for a board member to receive direct compensation from the school district, unless exempted in law or policy, for anything other than reimbursement of actual and necessary expenses, including travel, incurred in the performance of official duties. A board member will not act as an agent for school textbooks or school supplies including sports apparel or equipment, in any transaction with a director, officer, or other staff member of the school district during the board member’s term of office. It will not be a conflict of interest for board members to receive compensation from the school district for contracts for the purchase of goods or services which benefits a board member, or to compensation for part-time or temporary employment which benefits a board member, if the benefit to the board member does not exceed insert amount up to $20,000] in a fiscal year or if the contracts are made by the board, upon competitive bid in writing, publicly invited and opened.

The conflict of interest provisions do not apply to a contract that is a bond, note or other obligation of a school corporation if the contract is not acquired directly from the school corporation, but is acquired in a transaction with a third party, who may or may not be the original underwriter, purchaser, or obligee of the contract, or to a contract in which a director has an interest solely by reason of employment if the contract was made by competitive bid, in writing, publicly invited and opened, or if the remuneration for employment will not be directly affected as a result of the contract and duties of employment do not involve any of the preparation or procurement of any part of the contract. The competitive bid section of the conflict of interest provision does not apply to a contract for professional services not customarily awarded by competitive bid.

It will also be a conflict of interest for a board member to engage in any outside employment or activity which is in conflict with the board member’s official duties and responsibilities. In determining whether outside employment or activity of a board member creates a conflict of interest, situations in which an unacceptable conflict of interest is deemed to exist includes, but are not limited to, any of the following:

The outside employment or activity involves the use of the school district’s time, facilities, equipment and supplies or the use of the school district badge, uniform, business card or other evidence of office to give the board member or member of the board member’s immediate family an advantage or pecuniary benefit that is not available to other similarly situated members or classes of members of the general public. For purposes of this section, a person is not “similarly situated” merely by being related to a board member.
The outside employment or activity involves the receipt of, promise of, or acceptance of money or other consideration by the board member or a member of the board member’s immediate family from anyone other than the state or the school district for the performance of any act that the board member would be required or expected to perform as part of the board member’s regular duties or during the hours in which the board member performs service or work for the school district.
The outside employment or activity is subject to the official control, inspection, review, audit, or enforcement authority of the board member, during the performance of the board member’s duties of office or employment.

If the outside employment or activity is employment or activity in (1) or (2) above, the board member must cease the employment of or activity. If the activity or employment falls under (3), then the board member must:

Cease the outside employment or activity; or;
Publicly disclose the existence of the conflict and refrain from taking any official action or performing any official duty that would detrimentally affect or create a benefit for the outside employment or activity. Official action or official duty includes, but is not limited to, participating in any vote, taking affirmative action to influence any vote, determining the facts or law in a contested case or rulemaking proceeding, conducting any inspection, or providing any other official service or thing that is not available generally to members of the public in order to further the interests of the outside employment or activity.

When procurement is supported by Federal Child Nutrition funds, board members will not participate in the selection, award, or administration of a contract if there is a real or apparent conflict of interest in the contract. Contract, for purposes of this paragraph, includes a contract where the board member, board member’s immediate family, partner, or a non-school district employer of these individuals is a party to the contract.

It is the responsibility of each board member to be aware of and take the action necessary to eliminate a potential conflict of interest should it arise.

NOTE: This policy reflects the Iowa law on board member conflict of interest. Board members can now make up to $20,000 from the district in a fiscal year, however boards can choose to set a limit below $20,000 if the board believes a lower amount would be more appropriate for their community. There is no longer a prohibition on the employment of a spouse of a board member. Because of this removal, boards have little discretion regarding the employment of board members’ spouses.

Legal Reference:

22 C.F.R. § 518.42.
Iowa Code §§ 68B; 71.1; 277.27; 279.7A; 301.28.

Cross Reference:
201    Board of Directors' Elections
202.1 Qualifications
204    Code of Ethics
216.3 Board of Directors' Member Compensation and Expenses
217    Gifts to Board of Directors
401.3 Nepotism

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

204 Code of Ethics

Code No. 204

CODE OF ETHICS

The Grinnell-Newburg Board of Education is committed to ensuring the public, staff and students that school board members will be consistent, reliable, principled, and fair in the governance of the district. In accordance with this belief and by adoption of this policy, each board member commits to following the Code of Ethics.

Board Members:

Will listen and respect the opinion of others.
Will be motivated only by an earnest desire to serve the school district as a whole and our community’s students in the best possible way.
Will recognize that authority rests with the board in legal session and not with individual members of the board, except where authorized by law.
Will abide by majority decisions of the board.
Will expect, in board meetings, to focus time on providing the best possible learning for district students.
Will remain open-minded and objectively listen to facts presented at the board table prior to voting.
Will recognize our responsibility is governance and not management.
Will abide by all policies adopted by the board, including the chain of command and meeting procedures.
Will recognize the superintendent as executive officer of the board and empower him or her to administer the educational program and student learning.
Will provide oversight for the financial stability of the district balanced with the need for an effective educational program.
Will respect confidentiality, when required by law
Will be trustees of public education and do our best to protect it, conserve it, and advance it.
Will abide by the oath of office, federal law, and state law.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21.6(3)(d); 68B; 69; 277.28; 279.7A, 279.8, 301.28 (2013).

Cross Reference:
202 Board of Directors Members
203 Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

205 Board Member Liability

Code No. 205

BOARD MEMBER LIABILITY

Board members will not be held personally liable for actions taken in the performance of their duties and responsibilities vested in them by the laws of Iowa and the members of the school district community. In carrying out the duties and responsibilities of their office, board members will act in good faith.

The school district will defend, save harmless, and indemnify board members against tort claims or demands, whether groundless or otherwise, arising out of an alleged act or omission occurring within the scope of their official duties, unless the act constitutes a willful or wanton act or omission. However, the school district will not save harmless or indemnify board members for punitive damages.

Legal Reference:
Wood v. Strickland, 420 U.S. 308 (1975).
42 U.S.C. §§ 1983, 1985 (2012).
Iowa Code ch. 670 (2013).

Cross Reference:
709 Insurance Program

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

206.1 President

Code No. 206.1

PRESIDENT

It is the responsibility of the board president to lead a well-organized board in an efficient and effective manner. The board president will set the tone of the board meetings and, as the representative of the consensus of the board, speak on behalf of the board to the public.

The president of the board is elected to serve a one-year term by a majority vote at the organizational meeting in odd-numbered years, or, in even-numbered years, at a regular meeting held between twelve to thirteen months after the most recent organizational meeting.

The president, in addition to presiding at the board meetings, will take an active role in board decisions by discussing and voting on each motion before the board in the same manner as other board members.

Before making or seconding a motion, the board president will turn over control of the meeting to either

the vice-president or other board member.

The board president has the authority to call special meetings of the board. Prior to board meetings, the board president will consult with the superintendent on the development of the agenda for the meeting.

The board president, as the chief officer of the school district, will sign employment contracts and sign other contracts, and school district warrants approved by the board and will appear on behalf of the school corporation in causes of action involving the school district.

NOTE: If another method for electing the board president is used, that method should be outlined in this policy as well as Policy 200.1. This policy reflects the legal responsibilities of the board president including the signing of employment contracts.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 279.1-.2; 291.1

Cross Reference:
200.1    Organization of the Board of Directors
202.2    Oath of Office
206.2    Vice-President

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 04-23-14

Revised: 05-22-24

206.2 Vice-President

Code No. 206.2

VICE-PRESIDENT

The vice-president of the board is elected by a majority vote at the organizational meeting of in odd-numbered years, or, in even-numbered years, at a regular meeting held between twelve to thirteen months after the most recent organizational meeting, to serve a one-year term of office.

By this election, if the board president is unable or unwilling to carry out the duties required, it is the responsibility of the Vice-President of the board to carry out the duties of the president. If the president is unable or unwilling to complete the term of office, the vice-president will serve as president for the balance of the president's term of office, and a new vice-president will be elected.

The vice-president will accept control of the meeting from the president when the president wishes to make or second a motion. The vice-president will take an active role in board decisions by discussing and voting on matters before the board in the same manner as other board members.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code § 279.5

Cross Reference:
200.1    Organization of the Board of Directors
202.2    Oath of Office
206.1    President

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 04-23-14

Revised: 05-22-24

206.3 Secretary

Code No. 206.3

SECRETARY

A board secretary may be appointed from employees, other than a position requiring a teaching certificate, or from the public. To finalize the appointment, the board secretary will take the oath of office during the meeting at which the individual was appointed or no later than ten days thereafter.

It is the responsibility of the board secretary, as custodian of school district records, to preserve and maintain the records and documents pertaining to the business of the board; to keep complete minutes of special and regular board meetings, including closed sessions; to keep a record of the results of regular and special elections; to keep an accurate account of school funds; to sign warrants drawn on the school funds after board approval; and collect data on truant students. The board secretary will also be responsible for filing the required reports with the Iowa Department of Education.

In the event the board secretary is unable to fulfill the responsibilities set out by the board and the law, the superintendent will appoint an interim board secretary who will assume those duties until the board secretary is able to resume the responsibility or a new board secretary is appointed. The board secretary will give bond in an amount set by the board. The cost of the bond will be paid by the school district.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 12B.10; 12C; 64; 279.3, .5, .7, .32, .33, .35; 291.2-.4, .6-.8, .10-.11; 299.10.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(1).

Cross Reference:
202.2 Oath of Office
206.4 Treasurer
210.1 Annual Meeting
215 Board of Directors' Records
501.10 Truancy - Unexcused Absences
707.1 Secretary's Reports
708 Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 5-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

206.4 Treasurer

Code No. 206.4

TREASURER

It is the responsibility of the board to appoint a treasurer. The board may appoint a treasurer from its employees, other than a position requiring a teaching certificate, or from the public. To finalize the appointment,the treasurer will take the oath of office during the meeting at which the individual was appointed or no later than ten days thereafter.

It is the responsibility of the treasurer to oversee the investment portfolio, to receive funds of the school district, to pay out the funds for expenses approved by the board, to maintain accurate accounting records for each fund, to report monthly regarding the investment portfolio and the status of each fund and to file required reports with the appropriate state agencies and other entities. It will also be the responsibility of the treasurer to work with the secretary to coordinate the financial records, the financial reports, the cash flow needs and the investment portfolio of the school district.

If the treasurer is unable or unwilling to carry out the duties required, it is the responsibility of the superintendent to appoint an interim board treasurer to carry out the duties of the treasurer.

The treasurer will give bond in an amount set by the board. The cost of the bond will be paid by the school district.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 12B.10; 12C; 279.3, .31-.33; 291.2-.4, .8, .11-.14 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(1).

Cross Reference:
202.2 Oath of Office
206.3 Secretary
210.1 Annual Meeting
215 Board of Directors' Records
704.3 Investments
707 Fiscal Reports

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

207 Board of Directors' Legal Counsel

Code No. 207

BOARD OF DIRECTORS' LEGAL COUNSEL

It is the responsibility of the board to employ legal counsel to assist the board and the administration in carrying out their duties with respect to the numerous legal issues confronting the school district. The board may appoint legal counsel at its annual meeting.

The superintendent, board secretary or designee will have the authority to contact the board's legal counsel on behalf of the board when the superintendent, board secretary or designee believe it is necessary for the management of the school district. The board president may contact and seek advice from the school board's legal counsel. The board's legal counsel will attend both regular and special school board meetings upon the request of the board or the superintendent. Board members may contact legal counsel upon approval of a majority of the board. It is the responsibility of the board member to pay the legal fees, if any, of an attorney the board member consulted regarding matters of the school district unless the board has authorized the board member to consult an attorney on the matter.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board informed of matters for which legal counsel was consulted, particularly if the legal services will involve unusual expense for the school district.

NOTE: It is recommended that both the superintendent and board president have authority to contact the board's legal counsel without prior approval of the board. If other individuals have this authority, the board secretary for example, then they, too, should be listed in this policy.

Legal Reference:
Bishop v. Iowa State Board of Public Instruction, 395 N.W.2d 888 (Iowa 1986).
Iowa Code § 279.37 (2013).

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 05-13-08

208 Ad Hoc Committees

Code No. 208

AD HOC COMMITTEES

Whenever the board deems it necessary, the board may appoint a committee composed of citizens, employees or students to assist the board. Committees formed by the board are ad hoc committees.

An ad hoc committee may be formed by board resolution which will outline the duties and purpose of the committee. The committee is advisory in nature and has no duty or responsibility other than that specifically stated in the board resolution. The committee will automatically dissolve upon the delivery of its final recommendation to the board or upon completion of the duties outlined in the board resolution. The board will receive the report of the committee for consideration. The board retains the authority to make a final decision on the issue. The committee may be subject to the open meetings law.

The method for selection of committee members will be stated in the board resolution. When possible, and when the necessary expertise required allows, the committee members will be representative of the school district community and will consider the various viewpoints on the issue. The board may designate a board member and the superintendent to serve on an ad hoc committee. The committee will select its own chairperson, unless the board designates otherwise.

NOTE: Most, if not all, board committees are subject to the open meetings law just as the board is. The only difference between the two bodies is that committees are not required to publish their minutes. That is only a requirement specifically for school boards, not a requirement of the open meetings law.

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8; 280.12(2).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(3), .3(8); .5(8).

Cross Reference:
103    Long-Range Needs Assessment
211    Open Meetings
212    Closed Sessions
215    Board of Directors' Records
605.1 Instructional Materials Selection
900    Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04/27/22

208.1E1 Ad Hoc Committees Exhibit

Code No. 208.1E1

AD HOC COMMITTEES EXHIBIT

Ad Hoc Committee Purpose and Function

The specific purpose of each ad hoc committee varies. Generally, the primary function of an ad hoc committee is to give specific advice and suggestions. The advice and suggestions should focus on the purpose and duties stated in the board resolution establishing the committee. It is the board's role to take action based on information received from the ad hoc committee and other sources. Ad hoc committees may be subject to the open meetings law.

Role of an Ad Hoc Committee Member

The primary role of an ad hoc committee member is to be a productive, positive member of the committee. In doing so, it is important to listen to and respect the opinions of others. When the ad hoc committee makes a recommendation to the board, it is important for the ad hoc committee members to support the majority decision of the ad hoc committee. An ad hoc committee will function best when its members work within the committee framework and bring items of business to the ad hoc committee.

Ad Hoc Committee Membership

Ad hoc committee members may be appointed by the board. The board may request input from individuals or organizations, or it may seek volunteers to serve. Only the board or superintendent has the authority to appoint members to an ad hoc committee. Boards must follow the legal limitations or requirements regarding the membership of an ad hoc committee.

Approved: 04-23-14

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised:

209.1 Development of Policy

Code No. 209.1

DEVELOPMENT OF POLICY

The board has jurisdiction to legislate policy for the school district with the force and effect of law. Board policy provides the general direction as to what the board wishes to accomplish and why it wishes to accomplish it while allowing the superintendent to implement board policy.

The written policy statements contained in this manual provide guidelines and goals to the citizens, administration, employees and students in the school district community. The policy statements are the basis for the formulation of regulations by the administration. The board will determine the effectiveness of the policy statements by evaluating periodic reports from the administration.

Policy statements may be proposed by a board member, administrator, employee, student or member of the school district community. Proposed policy statements or ideas will be submitted to the superintendent's office for possible placement on the board agenda. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to bring these proposals to the attention of the board.

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 274.1-.2; 279.8.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:
101 Educational Philosophy of the School District
200.2 Powers of the Board of Directors
200.3 Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
209 Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

209.2 Adoption of Policy

Code No. 209.2

ADOPTION OF POLICY

The board will give notice of adoption of new policies by placing the item on the agenda of two regular board meetings. This notice procedure will be required except for emergency situations. If the board adopts a policy in an emergency situation, a statement regarding the emergency and the need for immediate adoption of the policy will be included in the minutes. The board will have complete discretion to determine what constitutes an emergency situation.

The final action taken to adopt the proposed policy will be approved by a simple majority vote of the board at the next regular meeting after the meeting allowing public discussion. The policy will be effective on the later of the date of passage or the date stated in the motion.

In the case of an emergency, a new or changed policy may be adopted by a majority vote of a quorum of the board. The emergency policy will expire at the close of the third regular meeting following the emergency action, unless the policy adoption procedure stated above is followed and the policy is reaffirmed.

NOTE: There is no legal requirement for the number of readings a board policy needs to have prior to its adoption by the board. The standard practice is two meetings, and this policy is written to reflect that practice. If a board holds fewer or more readings, the policy should be amended to reflect that practice. It is recommended the expiration date of an emergency policy be the number of meetings needed to adopt a regular policy plus an additional meeting.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code § 279.8.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:
200.02 Powers of the Board of Directors
200.03 Responsibilities of the Board of Directors

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

209.3 Dissemination of Policy

Code No. 209.3

DISSEMINATION OF POLICY

The board policy is available electronically, on the school website (www.grinnell-k12.org). Persons unable to access the policy manual electronically should contact the School Central Office at 641-236-2700.

Copies of changes in board policy will be included in or attached to the minutes in which the final action was taken to adopt the new or changed policy.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 277.31; 279.8.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:
200.3    Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
209    Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

209.4 Suspension of Policy

Code No. 209.4

SUSPENSION OF POLICY

Generally, the board will follow board policy and enforce it equitably. The board, and only the board, may, in extreme emergencies of a very unique nature, suspend policy. It is within the discretion of the board to determine when an extreme emergency of a very unique nature exists. Reasons for suspension of board policy will be documented in board minutes.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code § 279.8.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:
200.3 Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
209 Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

209.5 Administration in the Absence of Policy

Code No. 209.5

ADMINISTRATION IN THE ABSENCE OF POLICY

When there is no board policy in existence to provide guidance on a matter, the superintendent is authorized to act appropriately under the circumstances surrounding the situation, keeping in mind the educational philosophy and financial condition of the school district.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to inform the board of the situation and the action taken and to document the action taken. If needed, the superintendent will draft a proposed policy for the board to consider.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:
200.3 Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
209    Board of Directors' Management Procedures
302.4 Superintendent Duties
304    Policy Implementation

Approved: 07-09-08

Reveiwed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

209.6 Review and Revision of Policy

Code No. 209.6

REVIEW AND REVISION OF POLICY

The board shall, at least once every five years, review board policy. Once the policy has been reviewed, even if no changes were made, a notation of the date of review is made on the face of the policy Statement.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board informed as to legal changes at both the federal and state levels. The superintendent will also be responsible for bringing proposed policy statement revisions to the board's attention.

If a policy is revised because of a legal change over which the board has no control or a change which is minor, the policy may be approved at one meeting at the discretion of the board.

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy. Boards must review board policy at least every five years according to the educational standards. In order to comply with the educational standards, notation must be made on policies stating when the policy was reviewed or revised. Boards can use any method they want for reviewing board policy.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).

Cross Reference:
200.3 Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
209 Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

209.7 Review of Administrative Regulations

Code No. 209.7

REVIEW OF ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATIONS

Board policy sets the direction for the administration of the education program and school district operations. Some policies require administrative regulations for implementation.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations to implement the board policies. The regulations, including handbooks, will be reviewed by the board prior to their use in the school district.

The administrative regulations will be available no later than the first regular board meeting after the adoption of the board policy unless the board directs otherwise.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20.

Cross Reference:
200.3 Responsibilities of the Board of Directors
209 Board of Directors' Management Procedures

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviwed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

210.1 Annual Meeting

Code No. 210.1

ANNUAL MEETING

Each year, after August 31 and prior to the organizational meeting of the board in odd-numbered years, the board will hold its annual meeting.

At the annual meeting, the board will examine the financial books and settle the secretary's and treasurer's statements for the fiscal year ending the preceding June 30. As part of the annual reports, the treasurer will present affidavits from depository banks. The board may also appoint the board's legal counsel at the annual meeting.

NOTE: The requirement that the treasurer present an affidavit for depository banks is a legal requirement. The range of dates for a board's annual meeting comply with Iowa law. For more detailed discussion of this issue, see IASB's Policy Primer, Vol. 17 #1 - August 5, 2003.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 279.2, .3, .33 (2013).

Cross Reference:
206.3 Secretary
206.4 Treasurer
701.1 Depository of Funds
707 Fiscal Reports

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

210.2 Regular Meeting

Code No. 210.2

REGULAR MEETING

The regular meeting time and date will be set by the board at its organizational meeting. The regular meetings of the board will be held on the second and the fourth Wednesday of each month.

Meetings will begin promptly at 6:00 p.m. The board will adhere to this meeting date and time unless the board requires additional meetings or, due to circumstances beyond the board's control, the meeting cannot be held on the regular meeting date, and the meeting will be re-scheduled at the board's convenience. Public notice of the meetings will be given.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21.3, .4; 279.1.

Cross Reference:
200.1    Organization of the Board of Directors
210   Board of Directors' Meetings

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

210.3 Special Meeting

Code No. 210.3

SPECIAL MEETING

It may be necessary for the board to conduct a special meeting in addition to the regularly scheduled board meeting. Special meetings may be called by the president of the board or by the board secretary at the request of a majority of the board. Should a special meeting be called, public notice will be given.

If the special meeting called is an emergency meeting and the board cannot give public notice in its usual manner, the board will give public notice of the meeting as soon as practical and possible in light of the situation. Emergency meetings will only be held when an issue cannot wait twenty-four hours necessary for a special meeting. The reason for the emergency meeting and why notice could not be given in its usual manner will be stated in the minutes.

Only the purpose or issue for which the special meeting was called may be discussed and decided in the special meeting. The board will strictly adhere to the agenda for the special meeting and action on other issues will be reserved for the next regular or special board meeting.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21.3, .4; 279.2.

Cross Reference:
200.1 Organization of the Board of Directors
210 Board of Directors' Meetings

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

210.4 Work Sessions

Code No. 210.4

WORK SESSIONS

The board, as a decision-making body, is confronted with a continuing flow of problems, issues, and needs which require action. While the board is determined to expedite its business, it is also mindful of the importance of planning, brainstorming, and thoughtful discussion without action. Therefore, the board may schedule work sessions and retreats in order to provide its members and the administration with such opportunities. The board has the authority to hire an outside facilitator to assist it in work sessions.

Topics for discussion and study will be announced publicly, and work sessions and retreats will be conducted in open session. No board action will take place at the work session.

NOTE: Work sessions are considered open board meetings for which all of the requirements of the open meetings law apply including the requirement that board minutes be published.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8.

Cross Reference:
211 Open Meetings

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 5-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

210.5 Meeting Notice

Code No. 210.5

MEETING NOTICE

Public notice will be given for meetings and work sessions held by the board. Public notice will indicate the time, place, date and tentative agenda of board meetings. The public notice will be posted on the website in a prominent place clearly designated for posting agendas . The agenda will be posted, at the minimum, twenty-four hours before it is scheduled.

A copy of the public notice will be provided to those who have filed a request for notice with the secretary. A copy of the public notice will also be accessible to employees and students.

In the case of special meetings, public notice will be given in the same manner as for a regular meeting unless it is an emergency meeting. In that case, public notice of the meeting will be given as soon as practical and possible in light of the situation. The media and others who have requested notice will be notified of the emergency meeting. Attendance at a special meeting or emergency meeting by the media or board members will constitute a waiver of notice.

It is the responsibility of the board secretary to give public notice of board meetings and work sessions.

Legal Reference:
Dobrovolny v. Reinhardt, 173 N.W.2d 837 (Iowa 1970).
Iowa Code §§ 21.2-.4; 279.1, .2 (2013).
1952 Op. Att'y Gen. 133.

Cross Reference:
210 Board of Directors' Meetings
210.8 Board of Directors' Meeting Agenda

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 04-23-14

Revised: 05-22-24

210.6 Quorum

Code No. 210.6

QUORUM

Action by the board regarding the affairs of the school district may be taken only when a quorum, a majority of the board members, is in attendance at the board meeting. While in person participation is encouraged, board members may attend meetings either in person or electronically provided each member can hear and be heard in real time by all members present and the public.

While board members are encouraged to attend board meetings, four members will constitute a quorum and are a sufficient number to transact business of the school corporation. The adjournment of a meeting may be executed without a quorum.

An affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast is sufficient to pass a motion or take action unless law or board policy requires a vote of a greater number.

It is the responsibility of each board member to attend board meetings.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21.5(1); 279.4.

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviwed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

210.7 Rules of Order

Code No. 210.7

RULES OF ORDER

An orderly board meeting allows the board members to participate in the discussion and decision process on an issue confronting the school district. Rules of order for board meetings allow school district business and the related information concerning the business to be brought to the attention of the board. They also allow the board to discuss, act upon, and make a clear record of school district business in a regular, ordered, reasonable, and consistent manner.

Robert's Rule of Order, will guide the meetings.

The purpose of rules of order adopted by the board are:

To establish guidelines by which the business of the governing board can be conducted in a regular and internally consistent manner;
To organize the meetings so all necessary matters can be brought to the board and decisions of the board can be made in an orderly and reasonable manner;
To ensure members of the board, concentrating on the substantive issues at hand, have the necessary information to make decisions, and to ensure adequate discussion of decisions to be made; and,
To ensure meetings and actions of the board are conducted so as to be informative to the staff and the public, and to produce a clear record of actions taken and decisions made.

It is the responsibility of each board member to follow the rules of order stated in this policy at each meeting, and it is the responsibility of the presiding officer to conduct the board meeting within these rules.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21.2, .7; 279.8.

Cross Reference:
210 Board of Directors' Meetings
210.8 Board Meeting Agenda

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

210.7R1 Rules of Order Regulation

Code No. 210.7R1

RULES OF ORDER REGULATION

The following rules of procedure have been reviewed by the board:

Board members need not rise to gain the recognition of the board president.
All motions will be made as a positive action.
A motion will be adopted or carried if it receives an affirmative vote from more than half of the votes cast. Only "yes" and "no" votes are counted in this calculation. It should be noted that some motions require larger numbers of affirmative votes, such as to move into a closed session.
All motions shall receive a second, prior to opening the issue for discussion of the board. If a motion does not receive a second, the board president may declare the motion dead for lack of a second.
The board president may decide the order in which board members will be recognized to address an issue. An attempt should be made to alternate between pro and con positions.
The board president shall rule on all motions that come before the board.
The board president may rule on points of order brought before the board.
The board president shall have complete authority to recognize a member of the audience regarding a request to participate in the board meeting. Members of the public who wish to participate shall follow board policy.
The board president has the authority to declare a recess at any time for the purpose of restoring decorum to the meeting.
The board president has the same authority and responsibility as each board member to vote on all issues.

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

210.8 Board Meeting Agenda

Code No. 210.8

BOARD MEETING AGENDA

The tentative agenda for each board meeting will state the topics for discussion and action at the board meeting. The agenda is part of the public notice of the board meeting and will be posted and distributed.

Persons requesting to place an item on the agenda must make a request to the superintendent. The person making the request must state the person's name, address, and purpose. Requests from the public may be added to the tentative agenda at the discretion of the superintendent after consultation with the board president.

Board members may place an item on the agenda by contacting both the superintendent and the board president with the recommendation. Each board meeting will conclude with an opportunity for board members to suggest items for subsequent board meetings.

The tentative agenda and supporting documents will be sent to the board members the Friday prior to the scheduled board meeting and may be posted on the district's website. These documents are the private property of the board member. Persons wishing to view the tentative agenda and supporting documents may do so at the central administration office or may access on the district's website.

The board will take action only on the items listed on the tentative agenda posted with the public notice. Items added to the agenda may be discussed or taken under advisement by the board. If an added item is acted upon, the minutes of the board meeting will state the reason justifying the immediate action.

It is the responsibility of the board president and superintendent to develop the agenda for each board meeting.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8.

Cross Reference:
210    Board of Directors' Meetings
211    Open Meetings
213    Public Participation in Board Meetings
215    Board of Directors' Records
402.5 Public Complaints About Employees
502.4 Student Complaints and Grievances

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

210.8E1 Board Meeting Agenda-Example

Code No. 210.8E1

BOARD MEETING AGENDA EXAMPLE

Grinnell-Newburg Community School District
Regular Board Meeting
1333 Sunset St, Grinnell, IA 50112
Date and Time

Welcome
1. Call to Order and Roll Call
Consent Agenda
1. Approve/Amend Agenda
2. Approval of Minutes
3. Claims and Accounts
4. Personnel
5. Contracts and Agreements
6. Open Enrollments In and Out
Communication from the Public
Other Communications
Superintendents's Report
Old Business
New Business
Board Discussion
Adjournment

Upcoming meetings

Approved: 5-22-24, Reviewed: , Revised

210.8E2 Board Meeting Agenda - Example (with closed session)

Code No. 210.8E2

BOARD MEETING AGENDA - EXAMPLE (WITH CLOSED SESSION)

Regular Board Meeting (with closed session)
1333 Sunset St, Grinnell, IA 50112
Date and Time

Welcome
1. Call to Order and Roll Call
Consent Agenda
1. Approve/Amend Agenda
2. Approval of Minutes
3. Claims and Accounts
4. Personnel
5. Contracts and Agreements
6. Open Enrollments In and Out
Communication from the Public
Other Communications
Superintendents's Report
Old Business
New Business
Board Discussion
Closed Session authorized by secion 21.5 of open meetings law. *Board decision to leave closed session*
Adjournment

Upcoming meetings

Approved: 5-22-24, Reviewed: , Revised:

210.9 Consent Agendas

Code No. 210.9

CONSENT AGENDAS

Very often the board must consider agenda items which are non-controversial or similar in content. Such agenda items might include ministerial tasks such as, but not limited to, the approval of the agenda, approval of previous minutes, approval of bills, approval of reports, etc. These items might also include similar groups of decisions such as, but not limited to, approval of staff contracts, approval of maintenance details for the school buildings and grounds, open enrollment requests or approval of various schedules.

In order for a more efficient administration of board meetings, the board may elect to use a consent agenda for the passage of non-controversial items or items of a similar nature.

The superintendent in consultation with the board president and board secretary shall place items on the consent agenda. By using a consent agenda, the board has consented to the consideration of certain items as a group under one resolution. Items may be removed from the consent agenda at the request of a board member.

Nothing in this policy is to be construed as an attempt to avoid full compliance with laws dealing with open meetings or public notice of the agenda and meeting.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8.

Cross Reference:
210 Board of Directors' Meetings

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

211 Open Meetings

Code No. 211

OPEN MEETINGS

A board meeting is a gathering of a majority of board members in which deliberation of an issue within the jurisdiction of the board takes place. A gathering for the purpose of social or ministerial action will not constitute a board meeting unless a discussion of policy takes place. Meetings of the board will be conducted in an open session unless a closed session is authorized by law or the meeting is exempt from the open meetings law.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21, 279.1-.2 (2013).
1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 162.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 167.

Cross Reference:
208    Ad Hoc Committees
210    Board of Directors' Meetings
210.8 Board Meeting Agenda
212    Closed Sessions

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

212 Closed Sessions

Code No. 212

CLOSED SESSIONS

Generally, board meetings will be open meetings, unless a closed session is provided for by law.

Closed sessions take place as part of an open meeting. The board may enter into a closed session for any reason permitted by law.

The item for discussion in the closed session will be listed as part of the tentative agenda on the public notice with the full text of the Iowa Code citation reference stated on the agenda. The motion for a closed session, stating the purpose for the closed session, will be made and seconded during the open meeting. A minimum of two-thirds of the board, or all of the board members present, if any are absent, must vote in favor of the motion on a roll call vote. Closed sessions will be recorded and have detailed minutes kept by the board secretary. No voting will take place in the closed session. Final action on matters discussed in the closed session will be taken in an open meeting.

The minutes and recording will restate the motion made in the open meeting, the roll call vote, the members present, and the time the closed session began and ended. The recordings and the written minutes will be kept for one year from the date of the meeting. Real estate related minutes and recordings will be made public after the real estate transaction is completed.

The detailed minutes recording will be sealed and will not be public records open to public inspection. The minutes recording will only be available to board members or opened upon court or administrative order in an action to enforce the requirements of the open meetings law. The board has complete discretion as to whom may be present at a closed session, but generally closed sessions will be limited to the board, a recording secretary and the superintendent if indicated. The board has discretion to nominate the board secretary or any board member to serve as recording secretary for the closed session.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21; 22.7; 279.24.

Cross Reference:
208       Ad Hoc Committees
208E1       Ad Hoc Committees - Exhibit
211       Open Meetings
212.01       Exempt Meetings
302.05       Superintendent Evaluation
801.04       Site Acquisition

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

212.1 Exempt Meetings

Code No. 212.1

EXEMPT MEETINGS

Board meetings at which a quorum is not present, or gatherings of the board for purely ministerial or social purposes when there is no discussion of policy or no intent to avoid the purposes of the open meetings law, are exempt from the open meetings law requirements. Since gatherings of this type are exempt from the open meetings requirements, they can be held without public notice, be separate from an open meeting, be held without recording the gathering or taking minutes, and be held without a vote or motion. The board may also hold an exempt session for the following reasons, or as may be otherwise authorized by law:

Negotiating sessions, strategy meetings of public employers or employee organizations, mediation and the deliberative process of arbitration;
to discuss strategy in matters relating to employment conditions of employees not covered by the collective bargaining law;
to conduct a private hearing relating to the recommended termination of a teacher's contract. The private hearing however, in the teacher's contract termination will be recorded verbatim by a court reporter; and
to conduct a private hearing relating to the termination of a probationary administrator's contract or to review the proposed decision of the administrative law judge regarding the termination of an administrator's contract.

NOTE: Meetings exempt from the Open Meetings law are separate, standalone meetings of the board. For this reason, exempt meetings should never take place within an open meeting. Exempt meetings may be placed before or after an open meeting. But once an open meeting has convened, it should be adjourned prior to holding an exempt meeting. While there is no legal requirement to provide notice or keep minutes for exempt meetings; there may be intrinsic benefit for the community to understand that the board is communicating in a transparent fashion. For this reason, boards may choose to provide a notice that they intend to gather for an exempt meeting.

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 20.17; 21; 22.7; 279.15, .16.

Cross Reference: 208 Ad Hoc Committees
211 Open Meetings
212 Closed Sessions

Approved: 5-22-24, Reviewed: , Revised:

213 Public Participation in Board Meetings

Code No. 213

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN BOARD MEETINGS

The board recognizes the importance of public participation in school district matters. In order to assure individuals are heard and board meetings are conducted efficiently and in an organized manner, the board will set aside a specific time for public comment.

The board president will recognize individuals to make their comments at the appropriate time during this time. Anyone wishing to present petitions to the board may also do so at this time. The board however, will only receive the petitions and not act upon them or their contents.

The board has the discretion to limit the amount of time set aside for public participation and to request advance notice of a desire to address the Board. The Board Secretary can answer questions from individuals prior to the meeting on the process. Normally, speakers will be limited to three minutes. However, the board president may modify this time limit, if deemed appropriate or necessary. Public comment is a time set aside for community input, but the board will not discuss or take any action on any matter during public comment.

A public comment shall be limited to regular board meetings and will not be routinely held during special board meetings.

Petitions to Place a Topic on the Agenda

Individuals who wish for an item to be placed on the board agenda may submit a valid petition to the board. For a petition to be valid, it must be signed by at least 500 eligible electors of the district, or ten percent of the individuals who voted in the last school election, whichever number is lower.

Upon receiving a valid petition to the board to place a proposal on the next board agenda for public hearing, the board will place the proposal identified in the petition on the agenda of the next regular meeting, or a special meeting held within 30 days of receipt of the petition. The board will provide a sign-up sheet for all individuals who wish to speak on the proposal, and individuals will be called to speak in order of sign-up. The sign-up sheet will require each individual to list their legal name and mailing address. Each speaker will be limited to an amount of time established by the board president that is reasonable and necessary based on the number of speakers signed up. The same time limit will apply to all speakers on the proposal. Each individual will be limited to one opportunity to speak. The board maintains absolute discretion on whether or not to discuss or act on the public comments made on the proposal. If a petition is related to curriculum, the district maintains discretion to determine whether to stop teaching that curriculum until the board holds the public hearing to discuss the curriculum.

The board has a significant interest in maintaining the decorum of its meetings, and it is expected that members of the public and the board will address each other with civility. The orderly process of the board meeting will not be interfered with or disrupted by public comment. Only individuals recognized by the board president will be allowed to speak. Comments by others are out of order. If disruptive, the individual causing disruption may be asked to leave the board meeting. Defamatory comments may be subject to legal action.

NOTE: Members of the public do not have a legal right to participate in board meetings. Boards need to make the determination how best, if at all, to involve the public in their board meetings. Boards that

follow other practices for allowing the public to participate in board meetings should amend this policy

to reflect their practice.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21; 22; 279.8

Cross Reference:
205    Board Member Liability
210.8 Board Meeting Agenda
213.1 Public Complaints
214    Public Hearings
401.4   Employee Complaints
502.4   Student Complaints and Grievances
605.3 Objection to Instructional and Library Materials

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 04-23-14

Revised: 05-22-24

213.1 Public Complaints

Code No. 213.1

PUBLIC COMPLAINTS

The board recognizes situations may arise in the operation of the school district which are of concern to parents and other members of the school district community.

The board firmly believes concerns should be resolved at the lowest organizational level by those individuals closest to the concern. Whenever a complaint or concern is brought to the attention of the board it will be referred to the administration to be resolved. Prior to board action however, the following should be completed:

Matters should first be addressed to the teacher or employee.
Unsettled matters from (a) above or problems and questions about individual attendance centers should be addressed to the employee's building principal.
Unsettled matters from (b) above or problems and questions concerning the school district should be directed to the superintendent.
If a matter cannot be settled satisfactorily by the superintendent, it may then be brought to the board for consideration. To bring a concern, the individual shall notify the board president or board secretary in writing, who may bring it to the attention of the entire board.

Parents, guardians and community members of the district who have concerns about the district or the board may refer to the student handbook for additional guidance from the Iowa Department of Education.

It is within the discretion of the board to address complaints from the members of the school district community, and the board will only consider whether to address complaints if they are in writing, signed, and the complainant has complied with this policy. The board is not obligated to address a complaint and may defer to the decision of the superintendent. If the board elects not to address a complaint, the decision of the superintendent shall be final. If the board does elect to address a complaint, its decision shall be final.

Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference: 210.8 Board Meeting Agenda
213 Public Participation in Board Meetings

Approved: 5-22-24, Reviewed: , Revised:

214 Public Hearings

Code No. 214

PUBLIC HEARINGS

Public hearings may be held on school district matters at the discretion of the board. Public notice of a public hearing will be in the same manner as for a board meeting except that the notice will be given at least ten days before the hearing is to be held unless it is impossible or impractical to do so, or the law requires otherwise.

At public hearings, citizens of the district will be allowed to speak on the issue for which the public hearing is being held. Others may be allowed to speak at the board's discretion. Speakers are asked to keep their remarks as brief as possible. Prior to the beginning of the hearing, speakers and spectators will be apprised of the rules of order to be followed regarding time limitations, questions, remarks and rebuttals. In no event will a speaker be allowed to take the time of another speaker.

The board will conduct public hearings in an orderly fashion. At the beginning of the hearing, statements, background materials and public hearing rules and procedures will be presented by the board president. The board president will recognize the speakers. A board member may ask questions of the speakers after receiving permission from the board president. Only those speakers recognized by the chair will be allowed to speak. Comments by others are out of order. Individuals who interfere with or interrupt speakers, the board, or the proceedings, will be asked to leave.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21; 24.9; 26.12; 279.8, .10; 297.22.

Cross Reference:
210 Board of Directors' Meetings
213 Public Participation in Board Meetings
601.1 School Calendar
703.1 Budget Planning

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

215 Board of Directors' Records

Code No. 215

BOARD OF DIRECTORS' RECORDS

The board will keep and maintain permanent records of the board including, but not limited to, records of the minutes of board meetings and other required records of the board.

It is the responsibility of the board secretary to keep the minutes of the board meetings. The minutes of each board meeting will include, at a minimum, the following items: a record of the date, time, place, members present, action taken and the vote of each member, and the schedule of bills allowed will be attached. This information will be available within two weeks of the board meeting and forwarded to the newspaper designated as the official newspaper for publication. The information does not need to be published within two weeks. The schedule of bills allowed may be published on a once monthly basis in lieu of publication with the minutes. The permanent records of the board minutes may include more detail than is required for the publication of the minutes.

Minutes waiting approval at the next board meeting will be available for public review at the central administration office after the board secretary transcribes the notes into typewritten material which has been proofread for errors and retyped.

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy. The requirements in the second paragraph are all legal requirements.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21; 22; 279.8, .35, .36; 291.6, .7; 618.3 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(1).
1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 215.
1974 Op. Att'y Gen. 403.
1952 Op. Att'y Gen. 133.

Cross Reference:
206.3 Secretary
206.4 Treasurer
208    Ad Hoc Committees
210.8 Board Meeting Agenda
708    Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records
901    Public Examination of School District Records

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

215E1 Board of Directors' Records - Board Meeting Minutes

Code No. 215E1

BOARD MEETING MINUTES

Since the offical minutes of the board are the only legal record it is important that they be recorded wih extreme care and completeness. The board secretary will follow the following guidelines in writing board minutes:

The place, date and time of each meeting.
The type of meeting-regular, special, emergency, work session.
Members present and members absent, by name.
The call to order and adjornment
The departure of members by name before adjournment
The late arrival of members, by name.
The time and place of the next meeting
Approval, or amendment and approval of the minutes of the preceding meeting.
Complete information as to each subject of the board's deliberation and the action taken.
The maker and seconder of the motion, what action was taken, and the vote on the motion detailed enough to attribute a vote to each member present.
Coomplte text of all board resolutions, numbered consecutively for each fiscal year.
A reocrod of all contracts entered into, with the contract documents kept in a seperate file.
A record of all change orders on construction contracts
All employment changes, including resignations or terminations.
A record, by number, of the bills of account approved by the board for payment
A record of all calls for bids, bids received and action taken thereon
Approval of all transfers of funds from one bedgetary fund to another
Important documents forming a part of a motion should be made a part of the minutes by exhibit
Board policy and adminsrative guides should be made a part of the minutes by exhibit
Adoption of textbooks and establishment of bus routes by the board for the school year as well as the school calendar should become a part of the minutes.
Approval or disapproval of open enrollment requests with justification for disapproval o approval after the deadline
A record of all delegations appearing before the board and a record of all petions
At the annual meeting each year the record should indicate that the books of the treasurer and secretary and the Certificed Annual Report have been examined and approved subject to audit
The election or appointment of board officers
The appointment of auditors to examine the books

At the annual or organizational meeting in odd-numbered years, the minutes should reflect the following:

Appointment of a temporary chairperson if not specificed in policy
Oath of office adminstered to newly elected board members
Nominations taken for the office of president and vice president
Election of the president and vice president, the votes and the oath of office adminstered to the president and vice president
The resolution to pay bills when the board is not in session
A resolution to automatically disburse payroll along with a roster of all employees under contract.
A resolution naming depositories along with the maximum deposit for each depository
Resolution authorizing the use of a check protector and signer and the proper control of the signer
Motion designating a member or a committee to examine the bills of account for a designated period of time on rotation basis if desired for the balance of the school year

NOTE: There are no legal requirements for the contrents of board minutes other than those stated in policy. The contents of this exhibit are suggestions and may be amended, altered or deleted.

Approved: 5-22-24, Reviewed: , Revised:

216.1 Association Membership

Code No. 216.1

ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP

Participation in board member associations are beneficial to the board. The board may maintain an active membership in the Iowa Association of School Boards and in organizations the board determines will be of benefit to the board and the school district.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code § 279.38 (2013).

Cross Reference:
216.2 Board of Directors' Member Development and Training

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08

216.2 Board of Directors' Member Development and Training

Code No. 216.2

BOARD OF DIRECTORS' MEMBER DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING

The board may participate in conferences sponsored by educational associations and agencies in addition to its own in-service programs and work sessions.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .38 (2013).

Cross Reference:
216.1 Association Membership

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 04-27-22

216.3 Board of Directors' Membership Compensation and Expenses

Code No. 216.3

BOARD OF DIRECTORS' MEMBER COMPENSATION AND EXPENSES

As an elected public official, the board member is a public servant who serves without compensation for the board member's time spent as a board member. Board members will be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.

Prior to reimbursement of actual and necessary expenses, the board member must submit a detailed receipt indicating the date, purpose and nature of the expense for each claim item. Failure to provide a detailed receipt will make the expense nonreimbursable. Personal expenses will be reimbursed by the board member to the school district no later than ten working days following the date of the expense. In exceptional circumstances, the board may allow a claim without proper receipt. Written documentation explaining the exceptional circumstances will be maintained as part of the school district's record of the claim.

It is the responsibility of the board secretary to compile the expenses of board members and bring them to the board for audit and approval in the same manner as other claims of the school district. It is the responsibility of the board to determine through the audit and approval process of the board whether the expenses incurred by a board member are actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 68B; 277.27; 279.7A, .8, .32 (2013).

Cross Reference:
203 Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest
401.7 Employee Travel Compensation
401.10 Credit Cards

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 04-27-22

Revised: 05-22-24

217 Gifts to Board of Directors

Code No. 217

GIFTS TO BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Board members may receive a gift on behalf of the school district. Board members will not, either directly or indirectly, solicit, accept, or receive a gift, series of gifts, or an honorarium unless the donor does not meet the definition of "restricted donor" stated below or the gift or honorarium does not meet the definition of gift or honorarium stated below.

A "restricted donor" is defined as a person or other entity which:

Is seeking to be or is a party to any one or any combination of sales, purchases, leases, or contracts to, from, or with the school district;
Will be directly and substantially affected financially by the performance or nonperformance of the board member's official duty in a way that is greater than the effect on the public generally or on a substantial class of persons to which the person belongs as a member of a profession, occupation, industry, or region; or
Is a lobbyist or a client of a lobbyist with respect to matters within the school district's jurisdiction.

A "gift" is the giving of anything of value in return for which something of equal or greater value is not given or received. However, "gift" does not include any of the following:

Contributions to a candidate or a candidate's committee;
Informational material relevant to a board member's official function, such as books, pamphlets, reports, documents, periodicals, or other information that is recorded in a written, audio, or visual format;
Anything received from a person related within the fourth degree by kinship or marriage, unless the donor is acting as an agent or intermediary for another person not so related;
An inheritance;
Anything available or distributed to the general public free of charge without regard to the official status of the board recipient;
Items received from a charitable, professional, educational, or business organization to which the board member belongs as a dues paying member if the items are given to all members of the organization without regard to an individual member's status or positions held outside of the organization and if the dues paid are not inconsequential when compared to the items received;
Actual expenses of a board member for food, beverages, travel, and lodging for a meeting which is given in return for participation in a panel or speaking engagement at the meeting when the expenses relate directly to the day or days on which the board member has participation or presentation responsibilities;
Plaques or items of negligible resale value given as recognition for public service;
Nonmonetary items with a value of less than three dollars that are received from any one donor during one calendar day;
Items or services solicited or given to a state, national or regional organization in which the state of Iowa or a school district is a member for purposes of a business or educational conference, seminar, or other meeting or solicited by or given to state, national or regional government organizations whose memberships and officers are primarily composed of state or local government officials or employees for purposes of a business or educational conference, seminar, or other meeting;
Items or services received by members or representatives of members as part of regularly scheduled event that is part of a business or educational conference, seminar, or other meeting that is sponsored and directed by any state, national, or regional government organization in which the state of Iowa or a political subdivision of the state of Iowa is a member, or received at such an event by members or representatives of members of state, national, or regional government organizations whose memberships and officers are primarily composed of state or local government officials or employees;
Funeral flowers or memorials to a church or nonprofit organization;
Gifts which are given to a public official for the public official's wedding or twenty-fifth or fiftieth wedding anniversary;
Payment of salary or expenses by a board member's employer or the firm in which the board member is a member for the cost of attending a meeting of a sub-unit of an agency when the board member whose expenses are being paid serves on a board, commission, committee, council, or other sub-unit of the agency and the board member is not entitled to receive compensation or reimbursement of expenses from the school district;
Gifts other than food, beverages, travel, and lodging received by a board member which are received from a person who is a citizen of a country other than the United States and is given during a ceremonial presentation or as a result of a custom of the other country and is of personal value only to the board member; or
Actual registration costs for informational meetings or sessions which assist a public official or public employee in the performance of the person's official functions. The costs of food, drink, lodging, and travel are not "registration costs" under this paragraph. Meetings or sessions which a public official or public employee attends for personal or professional licensing purposes are not "informational meetings or sessions which assist a public official or public employee in the performance of the person's official functions" under this paragraph.

An "honorarium" is anything of value that is accepted by, or on behalf of, a board member as consideration for an appearance, speech, or article. An honorarium does not include any of the following:

Actual expenses of a board member for registration, food, beverages, travel, or lodging for a meeting, which is given in return for participation in a panel or speaking engagement at a meeting when the expenses relate directly to the day or days on which the board member has participation or presentation responsibilities;
A nonmonetary gift or series of nonmonetary gifts donated within thirty days to a public body, an educational or charitable organization, or the department of general services; or
A payment made to a board member for services rendered as part of a private business, trade, or profession in which the board member is engaged if the payment is commensurate with the actual services rendered and is not being made because of the person's status as a board member but, rather, because of some special expertise or other qualification.

It is the responsibility of each board member to know when it is appropriate to accept or reject gifts or Honorariums.

NOTE: This policy is a reflection of the law.

Legal References:
Iowa Code ch. 68B (2013).
1972 Op. Att'y Gen. 276.
1970 Op. Att'y Gen. 319.

Cross References:
203 Board of Directors' Conflict of Interest
402.4 Gifts to Employees
704.4 Gifts - Grants - Bequests

Approved: 07-09-08

Reviewed: 05-22-24

Revised: 08-13-08