Code No. 600

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE EDUCATION PROGRAM

This series of the board policy manual is devoted to the goals and objectives for the delivery of the education program.  The board's objective in the design, contents and the delivery of the education program is to provide an equal opportunity for students to pursue an education free of discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, national origin, marital status, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability.

In providing the education program of the school district, the board will strive to meet its overall goal of providing the students an opportunity to develop a healthy social, intellectual, emotional, and physical self-concept in a learning environment that provides guidance and encourages critical thinking in students.

In striving to meet this overall goal, the objectives of the education program are to provide students with an opportunity to:

• Acquire basic skills in obtaining information, solving problems, thinking critically and communicating effectively;
• Become effective and responsible contributors to the decision-making processes of the social and political institutions of the community, state and nation;
• Acquire entry-level job skills and knowledge necessary for further education;
• Acquire the capacities for satisfying and responsible roles as family members;
• Acquire knowledge, habits and attitudes that promote personal and public health, both physical and mental;
• Acquire an understanding of ethical principles and values and the ability to apply them to their own lives;
• Develop an understanding of their own worth, abilities, potential and limitations; and,
• Learn and enjoy the process of learning and acquire the skills necessary for a lifetime of continuous learning and adaptation to change.

An advisory committee of representatives of the school district community and the school district is appointed to make recommendations for the goals and objectives of the education program.  Annually, the board will report to the committee regarding progress toward achievement of the goals and objectives of the education program.

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised:

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 602.1 

CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT 

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

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

• Focuses attention on the content standards of each discipline and ensures the identified learnings are rigorous, challenging, and represent the most important learning for our students. 

• Increases the probability that students will acquire the desired knowledge, skills and dispositions and that our schools will be successful in providing appropriate learning experiences. 

• Facilitates communication and coordination. 

• Improves classroom instruction. 

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

• Study the latest thinking, trends research and expert advice regarding the content/discipline; 

• Study the current status of the content/discipline (what and how well students are currently learning); 

• Identify content standards, benchmarks, and grade level expectations for the content/discipline; 

• Describe the desired learning behaviors, teaching and learning environment related to the content/discipline; 

• Identify differences in the desired and present program and develop a plan for addressing the differences; 

• Communicate with internal and external publics regarding the content area; 

• Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum development decisions; 

• Verify integration of local, state, and/or federal mandates (MCNS, school-to-work, etc); 

• Verify how the standards and benchmarks of the content/discipline support each  of the broader student learning goals and provide a K-12 continuum that builds on the prior learning of each level. 

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

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy but the content is discretionary to the extent somewhere in the board policy the board describes its process for establishing content standards, benchmarks, performance levels, and annual improvement goals aligned with needs assessment information.
 

Legal Reference:     20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2012). 

34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2012). 

Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.7, 279.8 (2013). 

281 I.A.C. 12.5, .8. 

Cross Reference:     101 Educational Philosophy of the School District 

103 Long-Range Needs Assessment 

602 Curriculum Development 

603 Instructional Curriculum 

605 Instructional Materials 

Approved 2/8/17, Reviewed:  , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 602.1

CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy but the content is discretionary to the extent somewhere in the board policy the board describes its process for establishing content standards, benchmarks, performance levels, and annual improvement goals aligned with needs assessment information.

Legal Reference:     
20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2012).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2012).
Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.7, 279.8 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.5, .8.

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

Approved 2/8/17

Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 602.2 

CURRICULUM IMPLEMENTATION 

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

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

• Understanding the conceptual framework of the content/discipline being implemented; and, 

• Organized assistance to understand the theory, observe exemplary demonstrations, have opportunities to practice, and receive coaching and feedback focused on the most powerful instructional strategies to deliver the content at the classroom level. 

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

• Study and identify the best instructional practices and materials to deliver the content; 

• Describe procedures for the purchase of instructional materials and resources (See Policy 605.1R1. Boards should insert the policy number to cross reference their policy on Instructional Materials Selection); 

• Identify/develop exemplars that demonstrate the learning behaviors, teaching, and learning environment to deliver the content; 

• Study the current status of instruction in the content area (how teachers are teaching); 

• Compare the desired and present delivery system, identify differences (gap analysis), and develop a plan for addressing the differences; 

• Organize staff into collaborative study teams to support their learning and implementation efforts (address the gaps); 

• Provide ongoing professional development related to instructional strategies and  materials that focuses on theory, demonstration, practice and feedback; 

• Regularly monitor and assess the level of implementation; 

• Communicate with internal and external publics regarding curriculum implementation; 

• Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum implementation decisions. 

• Ensure the curriculum framework complies with applicable laws;

• Provide professional development to staff to support effective curriculum implementation. 

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

Note: This is a mandatory policy but the content is discretionary to the extent somewhere in board policy the board describes its process for establishing content standards, benchmarks, performance levels, and annual improvement goals aligned with needs assessment information. The bulleted items are suggestions for content of this policy. The italicized items are not mandatory functions but are implied from the mandates. Boards, in conjunction with their administrators, should review their curriculum implementation process and incorporate it into this policy – striking what doesn’t apply And adding what does. 
 

Legal Reference:     20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2012). 

34 C.F.R. pt. 98 (2012). 

Iowa Code §§ 216.9, 256.7, 279.8, 280.3-.14 (2013). 

281 I.A.C. 12.8(1)(c)(1). 

Cross Reference:     101 Educational Philosophy of the School District 

103 Long-Range Needs Assessment 

505 Student Scholastic Achievement

602 Curriculum Development 

603 Instructional Curriculum 

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 602.3 

CURRICULUM EVALUATION 

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

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

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

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

• Identify specific purposes for assessing student learning; 

• Develop a comprehensive assessment plan; 

• Select/develop assessment tools and scoring procedures that are valid and reliable; 

• Identify procedures for collecting assessment data; 

• Identify procedures for analyzing and interpreting information and drawing conclusions based on the data (including analysis of the performance of various sub-groups of students); 

• Identify procedures for establishing at least three levels of performance (specific to the content standard and the assessment tool when appropriate) to assist in determining whether students have achieved at a satisfactory level (at least two levels describe performance that is proficient or advanced and at least one level describes students who are not yet performing at the proficient level); 

• Identify procedures for using assessment information to determine long-range and annual improvement goals; 

• Identify procedures for using assessment information in making decisions focused on improving teaching and learning (data based decision making); 

• Provide support to staff in using data to make instructional decisions; ​

• Define procedures for regular and clear communication about assessment results to the various internal and external publics (mandatory for communication about students receiving special education services); 

• Define data reporting procedures;

• Verify that assessment tools are fair for all students and are consistent with all state and federal mandates; 

• Verify that assessment tools measure the curriculum that is written and delivered; 

• Identify procedures for deciding when multiple assessment measures are necessary for making good decisions and drawing appropriate conclusions about student learning;

• Identify roles and responsibilities of key groups; 

• Involve staff, parents, students, and community members in curriculum evaluation; 

• Ensure participation of eligible students receiving special education services in district-wide assessments. 

• Ensure curriculum complies with applicable laws. 

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

Note: This is a mandatory policy but the content is discretionary to the extent somewhere in board policy the board describes its process for establishing content standards, benchmarks, performance levels, and annual improvement goals aligned with needs assessment information. 

Legal Reference:     20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2012). 

34 C.F.R. pt. 98 (2012). 

Iowa Code §§ 216.9, 256.7, 279.8, 280.3 (2013). 

281 I.A.C. 12.8. 

Cross Reference:     101 Educational Philosophy of the School District 

103 Long-Range Needs Assessment 

505 Student Scholastic Achievement 

602 Curriculum Development 

603 Instructional Curriculum 

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed:  , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 602.4

PILOT - EXPERIMENTAL - INNOVATIVE PROJECTS

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

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

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

Legal Reference:     
20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2012).
34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2012).
Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .10; 280.3 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.5, .8.

Cross Reference:     
602 Curriculum Development
603 Instructional Curriculum

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised:

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 603.1 

BASIC INSTRUCTION PROGRAM 

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

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

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

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

The basic instruction program of students enrolled in grades nine through twelve will include English-language arts (6 units), social studies (5 units), mathematics (6 units), science (5 units), health (1 unit), physical education (1 unit), fine arts (3 units), foreign language (4 units), financial literacy (1/2 unit) and vocational education (12 units) and computer science (1/2 unit). 

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

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

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

NOTE: This policy reflects the educational standards. The financial literacy requirement is effective with the 2021 graduation class.  The computer science requirement for grades one through eight are effective with the school year beginning July 1, 2023.  The computer science requirement for grades nine through twelve is effective with the school year beginning July 1, 2022.  Districts must also develop and implement a kindergarten through grade twelve computer science plan by July 1, 2022 which incorporates the educational standards. 

Legal Reference:     20 U.S.C. § 1232h (2012). 

34 C.F.R. Pt. 98 (2012). 

Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 256.11; 279.8; 280.3-.14 (2013). 

281 I.A.C. 12.5. 

Cross Reference:     102 Equal Educational Opportunity 

103 Long-Range Needs Assessment 

505 Student Scholastic Achievement 

602 Curriculum Development 

603 Instructional Curriculum 

Approved 2/8/17, Reviewed:  , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 603.2 

SUMMER SCHOOL INSTRUCTION 

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, 282.6.

Iowa Admin. Code. 41.406. 

Cross Reference:     410.2 Summer School Licensed Employees 

505.2 Student Promotion - Retention - Acceleration

603 Instructional Curriculum 

711.4 Summer School Transportation 

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed:  , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 603.3

SPECIAL EDUCATION

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

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

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

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy and reflects state and federal law.

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

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

Approved  2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23,  Revised: 

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 603.4

MULTICULTURAL/GENDER FAIR EDUCATION

Children enrolled in the Grinnell-Newburg Community School District will have an equal opportunity for a quality education without discrimination regardless of their race, religion, creed, color, sex, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.

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

Inquiries regarding compliance with equal educational opportunity shall be directed to the superintendent.

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

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

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised:  

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, Iowa

Code No. 603.5

HEALTH EDUCATION

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

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

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

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

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

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 603.6 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 

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

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

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

• the student is enrolled in academic courses not otherwise available, or 
• the student presents a written statement from a doctor stating that such activities could be injurious to the health of the student, or
• the student has been exempted because of a conflict with the student's religious beliefs, or
• A work-based learning program or other educational program authorized by the school which requires the student to leave the school premises for specific times during the school day, or
• An activity that is sponsored by the school in which the student is enrolled which requires at least as much physical activity per week as one-eighth unit of physical education, or
• A student who is enrolled in a junior reserve officers training corps.

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

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

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code § 256.11 (5) g. (2024). 

281 I.A.C. 12.5. 

Cross Reference:     504 Student Activities 

603 Instructional Curriculum

 Approved  2/8/17, revised 3/27/24

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 603.7

CAREER EDUCATION

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

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

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

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

Cross Reference:     
603 Instructional Curriculum

Approved  2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised:

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 603.8

TEACHING ABOUT RELIGION

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

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

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

NOTE: This policy and the accompanying regulation reflect the law on teaching religion in the public schools.

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

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 603.9

ACADEMIC FREEDOM

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

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

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

NOTE: This is not a mandatory policy, but it is strongly recommended. The policy and accompanying regulation reflect current law on the subject.

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

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 603.10

GLOBAL EDUCATION

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

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

Cross Reference:     
602 Curriculum Development

603 Instructional Curriculum

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 603.11

CITIZENSHIP

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

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

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy.

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

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 604.1

PRIVATE INSTRUCTION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised:
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 604.2

INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION .

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

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

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

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

Cross Reference:     
501.12 Pregnant Students
604.1 Competent Private Instruction

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 604.3

PROGRAM FOR TALENTED AND GIFTED STUDENTS

The board recognizes some students require programming beyond the regular education program.

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

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

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 604.4

PROGRAM FOR AT-RISK STUDENTS

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

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

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

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 604.5 

RELIGIOUS-BASED EXCLUSION FROM A SCHOOL PROGRAM 

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

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

• The notice is in writing; 

• The objection is based on religious beliefs; 

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

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

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

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

NOTE: Paragraph one of this policy reflects Iowa law regarding parents removing their children from parts of the education program. The rest of the policy is a process so boards can adapt but it’s merely recommended, not mandatory. 

Legal Reference:     U.S. Const. amend. I. 

Lee v. Weisman, 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992). 

Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602 (1971). 

Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County, 608 

F.Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985). 

Iowa Code §§ 256.11(6); 279.8 (2013). 

Cross Reference:     603 Instructional Curriculum 

606.2 School Ceremonies and Observances 

Approved 2/8/17, Reviwed: , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 604.6 

INSTRUCTION AT A POST-SECONDARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION 

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

Concurrent Enrollment

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

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

Post-Secondary Enrollment Option

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

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

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

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

Legal Reference:  Iowa Code §§ 256.7, 11; 258;594E; 279.61; 280.3, 280.14

281 I.A.C. 12 and 22

Cross Reference: 604.3 Program for Talented and Gifted Students

Approved  2/8/17, Reviewed: , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 604.7

DUAL ENROLLMENT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 604.8

FOREIGN STUDENTS

Foreign students must meet all district entrance requirements including age, place of residence and immunization. Students who are citizens of a foreign country will be considered residents if they meet one of the following requirements:

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

district with such proof, including a current TB test.

NOTE: The only legal requirement for foreign students is stated in the second bullet. However, the other requirements are strongly recommended.

Legal Reference:     
Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 604.9

HOME SCHOOL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

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

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

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

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

NOTE: School districts that do not have home school assistance programs should eliminate this policy. If you wish to homeschool your student(s) please find the appropriate forms and documents on the Iowa Dept. of Ed. website.

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 299A (2013).

281 I.A.C. 31.

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

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 604.10

VIRTUAL/ON-LINE COURSES

The board recognizes that on-line coursework may be a good alternative for students to not only meet graduation requirements but, also have the opportunity to take advanced or other courses not offered by the school district.

High school students may earn credits to be applied toward graduation requirements by completing on-line courses offered through agencies approved by the board, such as the Iowa On-Line Learning. Credit from an on-line or virtual course may be earned only in the following circumstances at the discretion of the superintendent and or their designee:

• The course is not offered at the high school;
• Although the course is offered at the high school, the student will not be able to take it due to an unavoidable scheduling conflict that would keep the student from meeting graduation requirements;
• The course will serve as a supplement to extend homebound instruction;
• The student has been expelled from the regular school setting, but educational services are to be continued; or,
• The principal, with agreement from the student's teachers and parents, determines the student requires a differentiated or accelerated learning environment.

Students applying for permission to take a virtual course shall complete prerequisites and provide teacher/counselor recommendations to confirm the student possesses the maturity level needed to function effectively in an on-line learning environment. In addition, the express approval of the principal shall be obtained before a student enrolls in an on-line course. The school must receive an official record of the final grade before credit toward graduation will be recognized.

Provided courses are part of the student’s regular school day coursework and within budgetary parameters, the costs for a virtual course, such as textbooks or school supplies, shall be borne by the school district, for students enrolled full-time.

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

Note: For more detailed discussion of this issue, see IASB's Policy Primer, Vol. 19 #1-September 14, 2005.

Legal Reference:     
Iowa Code 279.8 (2013)
281 I.A.C. 15

Cross Reference:     
605.6 Internet Appropriate Use
501.6 Student Transfers In

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised:
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 605.1 

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS SELECTION 

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

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

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

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

The superintendent will establish additional criteria to guide the selection of instructional materials through administrative regulation, ensuring alignment with educational goals and compliance with laws. 

NOTE: This is not a mandatory policy. The board may edit the policy and regulation to reflect its philosophy, goals and practices.

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14; 301 (2013). 

281 I.A.C. 12.3(12). 

Cross Reference:     208 Ad Hoc Committees 

505 Student Scholastic Achievement 

602 Curriculum Development 

605 Instructional Materials 

Approved  2/8/17, Reveiwed: , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 605.2 

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS INSPECTION 

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

Instructional and library materials may be viewed on school district premises.  

Parents and guardians of students will be provided view-only access to select instructional materials through the district’s classroom management software.  Select instructional and library materials include:

• A catalog of books available in the school library;

• Electronic textbooks and core materials that are written and published primarily for use in elementary and secondary school instruction, and are required by the classroom teacher for use by students;

• Relevant portions of required printed textbooks and materials, if it is practical for district staff to digitize and upload;

• Any other materials as determined by the classroom teacher.

In determining what materials should be posted on the district’s classroom management software platform, the district will balance the desire for transparency with the time constraints of existing job duties and demands of employees. Parents and guardians should be advised that while district employees strive to keep information current, the most up to date materials are available upon request and subject to all applicable laws.]  

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

NOTE:  The federally funded programs portion of this policy is mandatory pand reflects federal law on the subject of parental rights to inspect instructional materials.  The language related to viewing materials through either district premises or use of the classroom management software platform is optional language that allows for greater transparency for districts.  It is not required by law but is intended to be used in districts that utilize online classroom management software and choose to make an online catalog of instructional materials visible to parents/guardians.  Not all districts may have online classroom software capable of this feature.  

Legal Reference:    

Goals 2000:  Educate America Act, Pub. L. No. 103-227, 108 Stat. 125 (1994). 

Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 74; 280.3, .14; 301.

281 I.A.C. 12.3(12).

I.C. Iowa Code        Description

Iowa Code § 279.8        Directors - General Rules - Bonds of Employees

Iowa Code § 280.14        Uniform School Requirements - Administrators

Iowa Code § 280.3        Education Program - Attendance Center Requirements

Iowa Code § 301        Textbooks

Iowa Code 279.74        Powers and Duties - Specific Defined Concepts

281 I.A.C. 12.3            Administration

Cross References

901                    Public Examination of School District Records
Approved  2/8/17, Reviewed: , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 605.3 

OBJECTION TO INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS 

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

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

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

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy. The board may edit the policy and regulation to reflect its philosophy, goals and practices. 

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.3, .14; 301 (2013). 

281 I.A.C. 12.3(12). 

Cross Reference:     213 Public Participation in Board Meetings 

402.5 Public Complaints About Employees 

602 Curriculum Development 

605 Instructional Materials 

Approved  2/8/17, revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 605.4

TECHNOLOGY AND INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS

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

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

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

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

Cross Reference:     
602 Curriculum Development
605 Instructional Materials
Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 605.5 

SCHOOL LIBRARY 

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

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

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

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

NOTE:  This is a mandatory policy and reflects the educational standards.  The language in italics is optional and is not a legal requirement.  However, districts may wish to make this information accessible to parents and guardians to increase transparency for the school community. 

Legal Reference:    Iowa Code §§ 256.7(24); 279.8; 280.14; 301.

281 I.A.C. 12.3(11), (12).

Cross References:

605.06                Internet - Appropriate Use

605.06-R(1)            Internet - Appropriate Use - Regulation

605.06-E(1)            Internet - Appropriate Use - Internet Access Permission Letter to Parents

605.06-E(2)            Internet - Appropriate Use - Violation Notice

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 605.6 

STAFF USE OF THE INTERNET AND ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS 

The Internet and electronic communications (e-mail, chat rooms and other forms of electronic communication) have vast potential to support curriculum and learning. The Board of Education believes they should be used in schools as a learning resource to educate and to inform. 

The Board of Education supports the use of the Internet and electronic communications by staff to improve teaching and learning through interpersonal communication, access to information, research, training and collaboration and dissemination of successful educational practices, methods and materials. 

The Board believes the educational opportunities inherent in these tools far outweigh the possibility that users may procure material not consistent with the education goals of the district. However, the Internet and electronic communications are fluid environments in which users may access materials and information from many sources. Staff members shall take responsibility for their own use of district computers and computer systems to avoid contact with material or information that violates this policy. 

To protect students from material and information that is obscene, child pornography or otherwise harmful to minors, software that blocks or filters such material and information is used by the District. Blocking or filtering software may be disabled by the District Technology Coordinator, or designee, as necessary, for purposes of bona fide research or other educational projects being conducted by staff members over the age of 18. 

District computers and computer systems are owned by the district and are intended for educational purposes and district business. Staff members shall have no expectation of privacy when using the Internet or electronic communications. The district reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store (at any time and without prior notice) all usage of district computers and computer systems, including all Internet and electronic communications access and transmission/receipt of materials and information, All material and information accessed/received through district computers and computer systems shall remain the property of the school district. Staff members shall use district computers and computer systems in a responsible, efficient, ethical and legal manner. 

Because technology and ways of using technology are constantly evolving, every unacceptable use of district computers and computers systems cannot be specifically described in policy. Therefore, examples of unacceptable uses include, but are not limited to the following. 

No staff member shall access, create, transmit, retransmit or forward material or information: 

that promotes violence or advocates destruction of property including, but not limited to, access to information concerning the manufacturing or purchasing of destructive devices or weapons; 

that is not related to district education objectives; 

that contains pornographic, obscene or other sexually oriented materials either as pictures or writings, that are intended to stimulate erotic feelings or appeal to prurient interests in nudity, sex or excretion; 

that harasses, threatens, demeans, or promotes violence or hatred against another person or group of persons; 

for personal profit, financial gain, advertising, commercial transaction or political purposes; 

that plagiarizes the work of another; 

that uses inappropriate or profane language; 

that is knowingly false or could be construed as intending to purposely damage another person’s reputation; 

in violation of any federal or state law, including but not limited to copyrighted material and material protected by trade secret; 

that contains information protected by confidentiality laws; 

using another individual’s Internet or electronic communications account without written permission from that individual; or

that impersonates another or transmits through an anonymous remailer. 

Security on district computer systems is a high priority. Staff members who identify a security problem while using the Internet or electronic communications or who inadvertently access inappropriate content or sites must immediately notify the District Technology Coordinator. Staff members should not demonstrate the problem to other users. 

Staff members shall not: 

use another person’s password or any other identifier; 

gain or attempt to gain unauthorized access to district computers or computers systems; 

read, alter, delete or copy, or attempt to do so, electronic communications of other system users; 

or bypass or attempt to bypass or otherwise defeat system security setting. 

Any staff member identified as a security risk, may be denied access to the Internet and electronic communications. 

Staff members shall not access, receive, transmit or retransmit material regarding students, parents/guardians or district employees that is protected by confidentiality laws. If material is not legally protected but is of a confidential or sensitive nature, great care shall be taken to ensure that only those with a “need to know” are allowed access to the material. 

Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges and may result in school disciplinary action and/or legal action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious or intentional attempt to harm, destroy, modify, abuse or disrupt operation of any network within the school district or any network connected to the Internet, operation of any form of electronic communications, the data contained on any network or electronic communications, the data of another user, usage by another user, or district-owned software or hardware. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses and the use of encryption software. 

Staff members are prohibited from using or possessing any software that has been downloaded or is otherwise in the user’s possession without appropriate registration and payment of any fees owed to the software owner. 

Use of the Internet and electronic communications demands personal responsibility and understanding of the acceptable and unacceptable uses of such tools. Staff member use of the Internet and electronic communications is a privilege, not a right. Failure to follow the use procedures contained in this policy will result in the loss of the privilege to use these tools and may result in school disciplinary action up to and including termination and/or legal action. The school district may deny, revoke or suspend access to district technology or close accounts at any time. Staff members shall be required to sign the district’s Acceptable Use Agreement upon initial employment before Internet or electronic communications accounts shall be issued or access shall be allowed. 

The school district makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, related to the use of district computers and computer systems, including access to the Internet and electronic communications services. Providing access to these services does not imply endorsement by the district of the content, nor does the district make any guarantee as to the accuracy or quality of information received. The School District shall not be responsible for any damages, losses or costs a staff member suffers in using the Internet and electronic communications. This includes loss of data and service interruptions. Use of any information obtained via the Internet and electronic communications is at the staff member’s own risk. 

Legal References:     Iowa Code §§ 279.8 (2013)

Cross References:    104     Anti-Bullying/Harassment

            502    Student Rights and Responsibilities

            506     Student Records

            605.5     School Library

Approved 2/8/17, Reviewed: , Revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 605.7

USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES

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

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

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

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

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

Note: This is a mandatory policy. The policy is based upon federal law. It is strongly recommended the board seek legal counsel prior to making substantive edits to the policy and sample regulation.

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

Cross References:     
605.6 Internet Appropriate Use

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised:
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 606.1

CLASS SIZE - CLASS GROUPING

It is within the sole discretion of the board to determine the size of classes and to determine whether class grouping will take place. The board shall review the class sizes annually.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board on class size based upon the financial condition of the school district, the qualifications of and number of licensed employees, and other factors deemed relevant to the board.

Kindergarten through Grade 3:  Ranging from 18-23

Grade4: Ranging from 21-26

Grade 5: Ranging from 22-27

Grades 6,7,8: Ranging from 24-28

Grades 9-12: Ranging from 24-30

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

Cross Reference:     
606.6 Insufficient Classroom Space

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised: 
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 606.2 

SCHOOL CEREMONIES AND OBSERVANCES 

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

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

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

Legal Reference:     U.S. Const. amend. I. 

Lee v. Weisman, 112 S.Ct. 2649 (1992). 

Lemon v. Kurtzman, 403 U.S. 602 (1971). 

Graham v. Central Community School District of Decatur County, 608 F.Supp. 531 (S.D. Iowa 1985). 

Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013). 

Cross Reference:     603 Instructional Curriculum 

604.5 Religious-Based Exclusion From A School Program 

Approved  2/8/17, revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 606.3 

ANIMALS IN THE CLASSROOM 

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

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

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

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013). 

Cross Reference:     507 Student Health and Well-Being 

Approved  2/8/17, revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 606.4

STUDENT PRODUCTION OF MATERIALS AND SERVICES

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

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

Legal Reference:     

Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).

Cross Reference:     
408.2 Licensed Employee Publication or Creation of Materials

Approved: 2/8/17, Reviewed: 6/14/23, Revised:

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 606.5

STUDENT FIELD TRIPS AND EXCURSIONS

The principal may authorize field trips and excursions when such events contribute to the achievement of education goals of the school district. The school district will provide transportation for field trips and excursions.

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

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

NOTE: This is not a required policy but one that is recommended. The board may need to amend it to reflect current practice.

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

Cross Reference:     
503.1 Student Conduct
503.4 Good Conduct Rule
507.2E1 Authorization for Administration of Medication
603 Instructional Curriculum
711 Transportation

Approved: 10/11/17, Reveiwed: 6/14/23, Revised:
Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 606.6 

INSUFFICIENT CLASSROOM SPACE 

It is the goal of the district to create learning environments that encourage the growth and development of each student.  Providing classrooms with an appropriate student-teacher ratio is central to achieving this goal.  Insufficient classroom space exists when conditions in the district adversely affect the implementation of the district’s goals and its educational program.

Insufficient classroom space is determined on a case-by-case basis.  

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

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

NOTE: This is a policy mandated by Iowa's open enrollment law and reflects the requirements of the law. 

Legal Reference:     Iowa Code § 282.18(13) (2013). 

281 I.A.C. 17.6(3). 

Cross Reference:     103 Long-Range Needs Assessment 

501.15 Open Enrollment Transfers - Procedures as a Receiving District 

606.1 Class Size - Class Grouping 

Approved  2/8/17, revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 607.1 

STUDENT GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING PROGRAM 

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

Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 280.14;622.10

281 I.A.C. 12.3(11).

Cross Reference:     604.4 Program for At-Risk Students

Approved  2/8/17, revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA

Code No. 607.2 

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES 

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

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

• Emergent care situation means a sudden or unforeseen occurrence of onset of a medical or behavioral condition that could result in serious injury or harm to a student or others in the event immediate medical attention is not provided.  Emergent care situation includes the need to screen a student or others for symptoms or exposures during an outbreak or public health event of concern as designated by the department of public health.  

• Invasive physical examination means any medical examination that involves the exposure of private body parts or any act during such examination that includes incision, insertion, or injection into the body, but does not include a hearing, vision or scoliosis screening.  

• Student health screening means an intentionally planned, periodic process to identify if students may be at risk for a health concern and to determine if a referral for an in-depth assessment is needed to consider appropriate health services.  Student health screening does not include an episodic, individual screening done in accordance with professional licensed practice.

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

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

“The school district will annually notify parents of physical exams 

or screenings conducted on students except for vision, hearing or 

scoliosis.” 

Legal Reference: 42 U.S.C §§ 12101 et seq.

34 C.F.R. pt.99, 104, 200, 300 et seq.

29 U.S.C. §794(a)

28 C.F.R 35

20 U.S.C. 1232g §1400 6301 et seq.

Iowa Code §§ 22.7, 139A.3. .8, .21; 143.1, 152, 256.7(24), .11, 279; 280.23

281 I.A.C. 12.3(4), (7), (11); 12.4(12);12.8

282 I.A.C. 22.

641 I.A.C. 7.

655 I.A.C. 6

Cross Reference:     501.04    Entrance - Admissions

505.04    Testing Program

507.02    Administration of Medication to Students

507.02-E(1)    Administration of Medication to Students - Authorization - Asthma, Airway Constricting or Respiratory Distress Medication Self-Administration Consent Form

507.02-E(2)    Administration of Medication to Students - Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Medication to Students

Approved  2/8/17, revised 6/14/23

Grinnell-Newburg School District, Grinnell, IA