Annual District Notices

Technology Acceptable Use Policy

Purpose

The District recognizes that technology is an essential tool for teaching, learning, communication, creativity, and operational efficiency. The District also recognizes that technology is one educational tool among many and supports a balanced approach to instruction that includes face-to-face interaction, hands-on learning, physical activity, printed materials, and collaborative experiences. This policy establishes expectations for the responsible, safe, and educational use of District technology resources while complying with Iowa law and promoting healthy technology habits.

Definitions

Screen Time: Time spent using a digital device with a screen, including computers, tablets, smartphones, interactive displays, and similar technologies.

Instructional Technology: Software, hardware, online services, artificial intelligence tools, and digital applications used to support teaching and learning.

District Technology Resources: Any District-owned or District-managed device, network, software, application, online service, cloud platform, communication system, or other technology resource.

Scope

This policy applies to all students, employees, volunteers, contractors, and visitors who access or use District technology resources.

District Technology Resources

Technology resources include, but are not limited to:

• Computers, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices
• Internet access and wireless networks
• Learning management systems
• Email and communication platforms
• Educational software and applications
• Cloud storage and collaboration tools
• Artificial intelligence (AI) tools approved by the District
• Audio, video, and multimedia equipment

Use of District technology is a privilege, not a right.

Acceptable Use

Users are expected to:

• Use technology primarily for educational and school-related purposes.
• Follow all District policies, procedures, and applicable laws.
• Protect personal information and the privacy of others.
• Use respectful and appropriate language in digital communications.
• Report security concerns, cyberbullying, or inappropriate content to school staff.
• Exercise good digital citizenship and ethical behavior.
• Properly care for District-issued devices and equipment.

Employee Responsibilities

Employees shall:

• Model responsible technology use.
• Comply with District technology procedures and security requirements.
• Utilize approved instructional technology resources.
• Support age-appropriate technology practices consistent with District goals and state law.
• Promote digital citizenship, online safety, and responsible technology use.
• Protect confidential student and employee information.

Unacceptable Use

Users may not:

• Access, create, transmit, or distribute inappropriate, obscene, or unlawful content.
• Harass, intimidate, threaten, or cyberbully others.
• Attempt to bypass District security measures, web filters, or monitoring systems.
• Share passwords or use another person’s account.
• Download or install unauthorized software or applications.
• Engage in hacking, phishing, unauthorized access, or other malicious activities.
• Violate copyright, licensing agreements, or intellectual property rights.
• Use District technology for commercial, political, or personal financial gain.
• Intentionally disrupt the operation of District technology systems.

Elementary Student Technology Use (Grades K–5)

In accordance with Iowa law, the District shall:

• Minimize unnecessary screen time during the instructional day.
• Limit digital instruction and device use to the extent required by state law and District procedures.
• Prioritize direct instruction, hands-on learning, collaborative activities, reading, writing, and other non-digital educational experiences whenever appropriate.
• Prohibit the routine use of personal or District-issued devices during recess except when required for accessibility, health, safety, or educational accommodations.
• Maintain and make available to parents a current list of approved instructional technology platforms, applications, and digital services used with elementary students, including a general description of their educational purpose.
• Provide parents and guardians information regarding technology use expectations and available options for reducing student screen time where permitted by law.

The following activities may be exempt from screen-time limitations when permitted by law:

• State-required assessments
• Assistive technology and accessibility accommodations
• Individualized Education Program (IEP) requirements
• Section 504 accommodations
• Computer science instruction
• Teacher-led demonstrations and presentations
• Other legally authorized educational purposes

Parent Rights

Parents and guardians have the right to:

• Review this policy and related procedures.
• Request information regarding instructional technology tools used with their child.
• Review educational records as permitted by law.
• Request reasonable accommodations or alternative instructional methods to reduce a student’s technology use when such accommodations do not interfere with required curriculum, assessments, accessibility requirements, legal obligations, or educational objectives.

The District values parent involvement and will consider requests regarding student technology use in accordance with applicable law and District procedures. While the District will make reasonable efforts to accommodate such requests when appropriate, decisions regarding curriculum, instructional materials, educational methodologies, assessments, classroom management, and the use of instructional technology remain the responsibility of the District and its professional staff, consistent with state and federal law.

Nothing in this policy shall be interpreted to require the District to eliminate technology use that is necessary to meet educational standards, comply with legal requirements, provide accessibility accommodations, administer assessments, maintain student safety, or support essential educational operations.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The District may approve the use of AI tools for educational and operational purposes.

Users must:

• Follow teacher and District guidance regarding AI use.
• Cite AI-generated content when required.
• Not use AI tools to cheat, plagiarize, or misrepresent work.
• Not enter confidential or personally identifiable student information into unauthorized AI systems.

Privacy and Monitoring

District technology resources are District property. Users should have no expectation of privacy when using District-owned devices, accounts, networks, or systems.

The District reserves the right to:

• Monitor network activity.
• Review files stored on District systems.
• Access District accounts and devices when necessary for educational, operational, legal, or security purposes.
• Implement filtering, monitoring, and security tools required by law.

Data Security

Users must:

• Maintain secure passwords.
• Log out of devices when not in use.
• Report suspected security incidents immediately.
• Protect confidential and personally identifiable information.

Device Care and Responsibility

Users issued District devices are responsible for:

• Reasonable care of the device.
• Keeping devices charged and available for school use.
• Reporting damage, loss, or theft promptly.
• Returning devices and accessories upon request or at the end of enrollment or employment.

Violations

Violations of this policy may result in:

• Loss of technology privileges
• School disciplinary action
• Employee disciplinary action
• Financial responsibility for damages
• Referral to law enforcement when appropriate

Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) Compliance

The District complies with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and related federal regulations governing internet access for schools and libraries receiving federal E-rate funding.

To comply with CIPA requirements, the District shall:

• Utilize technology protection measures designed to block or filter access to content that is obscene, constitutes child pornography, or is harmful to minors.
• Monitor the online activities of students when using District technology resources and internet services.
• Educate students regarding digital citizenship, internet safety, cyberbullying awareness and response, social media safety, protection of personal information online, and the safe and responsible use of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
• Enforce reasonable restrictions on access to online content that may be inappropriate for the educational setting.
• Periodically review filtering and monitoring practices to ensure compliance with federal requirements and support educational objectives.

District administrators may authorize the disabling of filtering measures for adults engaged in bona fide research or other lawful purposes as permitted by federal law.

No filtering system can guarantee the prevention of access to all inappropriate content. Users are expected to exercise responsible judgment and immediately report accidental access to inappropriate material to a teacher, administrator, or technology staff member.

The District reserves the right to restrict or deny access to any online resource that is determined to interfere with educational purposes, network security, or student safety.

Acknowledgment

All users and, when applicable, parents or guardians shall acknowledge receipt of this policy and agree to comply with its requirements before accessing District technology resources.

Board Review

This policy shall be reviewed annually and revised as necessary to comply with Iowa law, federal requirements, evolving technology practices, and educational needs.

The Superintendent or designee shall develop and maintain administrative regulations and procedures necessary to implement this policy, including procedures related to elementary student technology use, approved instructional technology resources, parent requests regarding technology use, device management, cybersecurity practices, artificial intelligence usage, and other operational requirements.

Level I Investigators
TILFORD ELEMENTARY
Kris Hallberg (436–4728 ext. 5721 or 436-4728 ext. 5635) OR Ryan Davis (436–4728 ext. 5903)

SHELLSBURG ELEMENTARY
Kris Hallberg (436-4728 ext. 5721 or 436-4728 ext. 5635) OR Kyle Reeve (436-4728 ext. 5803)

MIDDLE SCHOOL
Kris Hallberg (436-4728 ext. 5721 or 436-4728 ext. 5635) OR Tony Islas (436–4728 ext. 5705)

HIGH SCHOOL
Kris Hallberg (436-4728 ext. 5721 or 436-4728 ext. 5635) OR Shelly Petersen (436–4728 ext. 5603)

Level II Investigator
ALL V–S BUILDINGS
Ron Tippett, Benton County Sheriff

Office Phone (472–2337)

113 E. 3rd St., Vinton, IA 52349

Any allegations of acts of physical or sexual abuse, including inappropriate or intentional sexual behavior, toward students by school employees should be reported to the above named investigators.

Complaint Form

Code No.104

The Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District is committed to providing all students, employees, and volunteers with a safe and civil school environment in which all members of the school community are treated with dignity and respect. Bullying and/or harassment behavior can seriously disrupt the ability of school employees to maintain a safe and civil environment, and the ability of students to learn and succeed.

Bullying and/or harassment of or by students, employees, and volunteers is against federal, state, and local policy and is not tolerated by the board.

Accordingly, school employees, volunteers, and students shall not engage in bullying or harassing behavior while on school property, while in school–owned or school–operated vehicles, while attending or participating in school–sponsored or sanctioned activities, and while away from school grounds if the conduct materially interferes with the orderly operation of the educational environment or is likely to do so.

Complaints may be filed with the superintendent or superintendent’s designee pursuant to the regulation accompanying this policy. Complaints will be investigated within a reasonable time frame.

A school employee, volunteer, or student, or a student’s parent or guardian who promptly, reasonably, and in good faith reports an incident of bullying or harassment, in compliance with the procedures in the regulation, to the appropriate school official designated by the school district, shall be immune from civil or criminal liability relating to such report and to participation in any administrative or judicial proceeding resulting from or relating to the report.

Retaliation Prohibited
Individuals who knowingly file false bullying or harassment complaints and any person who gives false statements in an investigation may be subject to discipline by appropriate measures.

Any student found to have violated or retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, suspension and expulsion. Any school employee found to have violated or retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, termination of employment. Any school volunteer found to have violated or retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, removal from service and exclusion from school grounds.

Definitions
For the purposes of this policy, the defined words shall have the following meaning:

• “Electronic” means any communication involving the transmission of information by wire, radio, optic cable, electromagnetic, or other similar means. “Electronic” includes but is not limited to communication via electronic mail, internet–based communications, pager service, cell phones, and electronic text messaging. “Harassment” and “bullying” mean any repeated or potentially repeated electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or other ongoing conduct toward an individual based on any trait or characteristic of the individual which creates an objectively hostile school environment that meets one or more of the following conditions:

1. Places the individual in reasonable fear of harm to the individual’s person or property.
2. Has a substantial detrimental effect on the individual’s physical or mental health.
3. Has the effect of substantially interfering with the individual’s academic or career performance. Has the effect of substantially interfering with the individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

• “Trait or characteristic of the individual” includes but is not limited to age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status.
• “Volunteer” means an individual who has regular, significant contact with students.

Publication of Policy
The board will annually publish this policy. The policy may be publicized by the following means:•Inclusion in the student handbook,

• Inclusion in the employee handbook
• Inclusion in the registration materials
• Inclusion on the school or school district’s web site,

Legal References:

• 20 U.S.C. §§ 1221-1234i.
• 29 U.S.C. § 794.
• 42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d-2000d-7.
• 42U.S.C. §§ 12101 2et. seq.
• Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 280.28; 280.3.
• 281 I.A.C. 12.3(6).
• Morse v. Frederick, 551 U.S. 393 (2007)

Cross References:

• 102 Equal Educational Opportunity
• 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
• 503 Student Discipline
• 506 Student Records

* * * * *

Approved: 8-20-07

Reviewed: 11-8-19; 1-13-20

Revised: 12-9-19; 3-9-20; 8-28-23

July 2021

Dear Parents, Students, and Staff:
Congress passed the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) in 1986. This act concerns asbestos in schools. As of a result of this act, our facilities were inspected for asbestos containing building materials and their conditions assessed. The materials are re-inspected and re-assessed every three years. We continue to monitor the conditions of these materials through our ongoing six-month surveillance program. It is our district’s intent to comply with federal, state, and local regulations governing asbestos to ensure a safe environment for our students, staff, and visitors.

A copy of our district’s Asbestos Management Plan is available at our facilities; administrative offices during regular school hours. Any inquiries regarding our districts Asbestos Management Plan should be directed to our district’s Asbestos Designated Person, Colin Carolus and may be reached by phoning the Superintendent’s Office, 319-436-5680.

During the past year there were some asbestos inspections and asbestos abatement done to facilitate renovation projects and six-month surveillances were done.

During the upcoming year, our district will continue with the six-month surveillances. We will inspect areas prior to any renovation activities in the next year and have the asbestos abated prior to any renovations. We had the Three Year AHERA Asbestos Reinspection and will follow the recommendation of the Inspector/Management Planner.

A copy of this letter will be enclosed in our district’s Asbestos Management plan.

Kyle Koeppen, Superintendent of School

Colin Carolus, Abestos Designated Person

Download the Letter

PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to:

Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (DE) –

• Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;
• Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
• Sex behavior or attitudes;
• Illegal, anti–social, self–incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
• Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;
• Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;
• Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or
• Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of –

• Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
• Any non–emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and
• Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

Inspect, upon request and before administration or use –

• Protected information surveys of students;
• Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and
• Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law.

The Vinton–Shellsburg CSD has/will develop[ed] and adopt[ed] policies (Board Policies 505.4; 506.2E1; 607.2), in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. Vinton–Shellsburg CSD will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. Vinton–Shellsburg CSD will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey. Vinton–Shellsburg will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the school year if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Parents will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement:

Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution.

Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by DE.Any non–emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above.

Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20202–5901

PPRA Notice and Consent/Opt–Out for Specific Activities

The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), 20 U.S.C. §1232h, requires Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District to notify you and obtain consent or allow you to opt your child out of participating in certain school activities. These activities include a student survey, analysis, or evaluation that concerns one or more of the following eight areas (“protected information surveys”):

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti–social, self–incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

This requirement also applies to the collection, disclosure or use of student information for marketing purposes (“marketing surveys”), and certain physical exams and screenings.

At this time there are no scheduled activities for the upcoming 2004–05requiring parental notice and consent or opt–out. If any surveys or activities are scheduled after the school year starts, the Vinton–Shellsburg CSD will provide parents, within a reasonable period of time prior to the administration of the surveys/activities, notification of the surveys and activities and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out, as well as an opportunity to review the surveys.

(Please note that this notice and consent/opt–out transfers from parents to any student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law.)

Example:
Date: On or about October 202_.

Grades: Grades Eight and Eleven

Activity: “ABC Survey of At–Risk Behaviors”.

Summary: This is an anonymous survey that asks students questions about behaviors such as drug and alcohol use, sexual conduct, violence, and other at–risk behaviors. The survey also asks questions of demographic nature concerning family make–up, the relationship between parents and children, and use of alcohol and drugs at home.

Consent: A parent must sign and return the attached consent form no later than__________ so that your child may participate in this survey.

Download the Notice

The Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District offers career and technical programs in the following service areas:

• Agriculture Education
• Family Consumer Science
• Industrial Tech
• Business

It is the policy of the Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination.

If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact the district’s Equity Coordinator:

Becky Lutgen

1502 C Ave.

Vinton, IA 52349

Telephone: (319) 436–4728

Email: becky.lutgen@vscsd.org

The notice may include:

Director of the Office for Civil Rights

U.S. Department of Education

Citigroup Center

500 W. Madison Street, Suite 1475

Chicago, IL 60661–7204

Telephone: (312) 730–1560

Facsimile: (312) 730–1576

Email: OCR.Chicago@ed.gov

The Iowa Legislature passed a new law, effective July 1, 2011, regarding students in grades 7 – 12 who participate in extracurricular interscholastic activities. Please note this important information from Iowa Code Section 280.13C, Brain Injury Policies:

Download the Fact Sheet

Iowa law requires a parent’s, or legal guardian’s, written consent before their son or daughter can receive emergency treatment, unless, in the opinion of a physician, the treatment is necessary to prevent death or serious injury.

Download the Consent Form

Code No. 503.5

Corporal punishment is defined as the intentional physical punishment of a student. It includes the use of unreasonable or unnecessary physical force or physical contact made with the intent to harm or cause pain. No employee is prohibited from:

*Using reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain, in order to accomplish any of the following:

• To quell a disturbance or prevent an act that threatens physical harm to any person.
• To obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous object within a pupil’s control.
• For the purposes of self–defense or defense of others as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.3.
• For the protection of property as provided for in Iowa Code section 704.4 or 704.5.
• To remove a disruptive pupil from class or any area of school premises, or from school–sponsored activities off school premises.
• To protect a student from the self–infliction of harm.
• To protect the safety of others.

*Using incidental, minor, or reasonable physical contact to maintain order and control.

Reasonable physical force should be commensurate with the circumstances of the situation. The following factors should be considered in using reasonable physical force for the reasons stated in this policy:

1. The size and physical, mental, and psychological condition of the student;
2. The nature of the student’s behavior or misconduct provoking the use of physical force;
3. The instrumentality used in applying the physical force;
4. The extent and nature of resulting injury to the student, if any;
5. The motivation of the school employee using physical force.

Upon request, the student’s parents are given an explanation of the reasons for physical force.

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

Legal Reference:

• Ingraham v.Wright, 430 U.S. 651 (1977).
• Gossv.Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (1975).
• Tinkhamv.Kole, 252 Iowa 1303, 110 N.W.2d 258 (1961).
• Laiv.Erickson, PTPC Admin. Doc. 83–12(1983).
• Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21 (2013).
• 281 I.A.C. 12.3(6); 103.
• 1980 Op. Att’y Gen. 275.

Cross Reference:

• 402.3 Abuse of Students by School District Employees
• 502 Student Rights and Responsibilities
• 503 Student Discipline

* * * * *

Approved: 8-16-93

Reviewed: 3-16-09; 1-11-16

Revised: 2-22-16

Code No. 503.4R1

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS/GOOD CONDUCT CODE FOR STUDENT ACTIVITY PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS
STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY
The Board of Education of the Vinton–Shellsburg School District offers a variety of voluntary activities designed to enhance the classroom education of its students. Students who participate in extracurricular, co–curricular, or intra–curricular activities serve as ambassadors of the school 365 days of the year, both in and out of school. Students who wish to exercise the privilege of participating in extracurricular, co–curricular, or intra–curricular activities must conduct themselves in accordance with the board policy and must meet the eligibility criteria established by the Board, administration, and individual activity coaches and sponsors.

APPLICABLE ACTIVITY PROGRAMS
The following activities are covered by, but not limited to, the Board’s policy and these rules:

1. Athletics
2. Fine Arts
3. Elected offices, including royalty
4. Clubs and organizations
5. Any other school activity where the student represents the school outside the classroom, (i.e. overnight trips, etc.)

CONDUCT REQUIREMENTS

1. Academically, a student must be in good standing according to the IHSAA and IGHSAU guidelines.
2. A student must abide by the Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District’s Good Conduct Code at all times.

GENERAL STANDARD
Good Conduct consists of behavior which reflects the generally accepted social and moral requirements of the community, is legal, and at all times reflects respect for and sensitivity to other persons regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Good Conduct means that people show respect for the rights, property, and dignity of others.

Responsible behavior includes, but is not limited to the following:

1. Conducting yourself in a manner that shows respect for others; not fighting, abusing others, hazing, threatening others, bullying, harassing and sexting (including on–line) or engaging in behavior that requires removal from school.
2. Showing respect while using property–the school’s, a friend’s, or another school district’s. At no time will a responsible student steal, damage, or maliciously harm another’s property.
3. Not going to parties or functions or placing yourself in situations where substances are being illegally used. Even if you’re not using the substance yourself, you could be charged with possession–which is a violation of the Good Conduct Code
4. Not using profanity, insubordinate or disrespectful actions or language, belligerent talk, or intimidation of others.
5. Showing respect for school procedures and causing no school or class disruptions.
6. Being in school every day, unless ill, and being on time. Dependability and punctuality are extremely important habits to cultivate.

VIOLATIONS OF THE GOOD CONDUCT CODE
Violations of the Good Conduct Code include but are not limited to the following:

1. Selling or distributing illegal drugs, alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, tobacco products, or imitation substances purported to be these.
2. Possessing, using, or being under the influence of illegal drugs, alcoholic beverages, controlled substances, tobacco products, imitation substances, or drug paraphernalia.
3. Participation in any conduct which is illegal in Iowa except for simple misdemeanor traffic violations.
4. Bullying, harassing, sexting, creating or distributing or other activities like pornography, creating or distributing fake or falsifying information, etc. that are done on–line.

DETERMINATION OF VIOLATION

When it comes to the attention of school officials that a student is suspected of violating the good Conduct Policy or the rules of a specific extracurricular activity, the Principal, or his/her designee will determine whether the student has committed a violation. The following are a list of the ways an investigation can begin:

• When the school receives communication from law enforcement.
• When a student self reports.
• When parents report their child.
• When a school employee directly witnesses a violation.
• When there is evidence presented to an Administrator that is deemed sufficient by that Administrator to begin an investigation.

Prior to making a final determination that there has been a violation, the Principal, or his/her designee will perform an appropriate investigation, including notifying the student orally or in writing of the allegations against the student and the basis of the allegations. The student will be given an opportunity to respond to the allegations. Parents will be included in the process.

The Vinton–Shellsburg School District may determine that there has been a violation of its Good Conduct Code whether or not criminal charges have been filed, whether a student’s trial is pending, or whether or not the student is found guilty by a court of law.

Once the determination is made that a student has violated the Vinton–Shellsburg Good ConductCode, the Principal, or his/her designee will make a determination of the appropriate penalty. The student and his/her parent(s) will be informed in writing of this decision (the nature of the violation and the determination of the penalty) by mailing the same to the student‘s residence(or other address if the parents have a different address on file for mailing purposes with the school) within two school days of the determination. In addition, the parent(s) will be notified orally, if possible.

APPEAL PROCESS

A student or parent contesting the declared ineligibility of a student based on the rules in this policy will be required to state the basis of their objections in writing, and also their request for an oral hearing, addressed to the building principal. The building principal will then notify the activities director and review committee (building administrators, two teachers, and a coach of another sport/activity) and schedule a meeting with the committee as soon as possible after receipt of such objections, giving at least five school days’ written notice of said hearing, unless a shorter time is mutually agreeable. The committee will consider the evidence presented including statements by the appellant’s legal counsel and make written findings of its decision within five school days of the hearing, mailing a copy forthwith to said appellant. The student will not be eligible during an appeal. If the student requests further appeal, her/she may obtain review of this determination to the superintendent by contacting the superintendent in writing within three school days of the Review Board’s decision. The penalty will be in effect until reviewed by the superintendent. The superintendent will make a determination on the violation. If the student is still dissatisfied, he or she may seek further review by the school board by filing a written appeal with the board secretary within three school days of the superintendent’s decision. A special meeting of the board will not be called. The review by the board will be in closed session unless the student’s parent (or the student, if the student is18) requests an open session. The grounds for review by the school board are limited to the following: the student did not violate the Good Conduct Rule; the student was given inadequate due process in the investigation and determination; or the penalty is in violation of the Handbook Rule or Board Policy. The penalty will remain in effect pending the outcome of the meeting with the board. If the school board reverses the decision of the administration, the student will be immediately eligible and will have any record of the ineligibility period and violation deleted from the student’s record.

PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS

• First Offense: Student will miss 20 consecutive calendar days beginning on the day of the student’s first event or activity after the violation has been given.
• Second Offense: Student will miss 60 consecutive calendar days beginning on the day of the student’s first event or activity after the violation has been given.
• Third Offense: Student will miss all events and activities for one calendar year from the time of incident
• Fourth Offense: Student will miss all activities for the rest of their high school career and automatically appear before the review committee.

If a student is declared ineligible/she is expected to practice with the team during the period of ineligibility. The student is expected to start and finish the full season for the penalty to be deemed fulfilled. Nothing in this policy precludes the application of a more severe penalty than the one indicated for a violation if the violation is serious enough as determined by the administration. During the period of ineligibility, the Administration has the right to restrict any volunteer school activities or trips where the student would be representing the Vinton–Shellsburg School District.

APPLICATION OF THE GOOD CONDUCT CODE
Appropriate student behavior is required by and impacts all extracurricular, co–curricular, and intra–curricular activities in which a student participates. If a student is participating in multiple activities at the same time the student loses privileges under this policy, the loss of privileges shall apply to each activity in which he/she is participating.

If at the time of the violation the student is not currently participating in any activity, then the loss of privileges shall apply to the first activity in which the individual participates.

A student must begin involvement in an activity from the date on which that activity starts and will not be allowed to join an activity in progress unless the coach/sponsor provides written permission and the student has no outstanding Good Conduct Code violations.

If a student joins an activity with an outstanding Good Conduct Code violation, the student may not quit that activity prior to the end of the activity’s season or the school year if the student wishes to get credit for satisfying the Good Conduct Code penalty provision. A disciplinary action may carry over from one activity to another activity and may carry over from one school year to the next.

GOOD BEHAVIOR PROVISION
After the 2nd or 3rd offense, if a student remains free of violations for one calendar year following the completion of a period of ineligibility, he or she will return to a 2nd Offense penalty for any subsequent violation. The student’s 1st Offense will always remain on their record.

CLEAN SLATE
Students will enter the 9th grade with a clean record.

*****

Approved: 8-16-93

Reviewed: 1-11-16; 5-11-20

Revisesd: 2-22-16; 6-8-20

The Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District offers educational opportunities without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. This statement is true regarding any and all educational programs including cooperative and/or work–study programs. The school district is committed to the policy that no otherwise qualified person will be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any school district program or activity on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Further, the school district affirms the right of all students and staff, regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity to be treated with respect and to be protected from intimidation, discrimination, physical harm and/or harassment.

The Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District is an equal opportunity employer. Employment opportunities are offered without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

The school district requires all persons, agencies, vendors, contractors and other persons and organizations doing business with or performing services for the district to subscribe to all applicable federal and state laws, executive orders, rules and regulations pertaining to contract compliance.

Any person having a complaint or grievance regarding educational or employment opportunities with the Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District should contact:  Equity Coordinator or the Superintendent at:

Vinton–Shellsburg Community School Administrative Offices,

1502 C Ave., Vinton, Iowa 52349

Phone: (319) 436–4728

GENERAL EDUCATION INTERVENTION SUPPORT SERVICES AVAILABLE
Support Services are available to assist teachers and families when concerns arise with students. These services include building staff (special education teacher, counselor, nurse, health secretary, etc.) and Grant Wood Area Education Agency staff (psychologist, social worker, consultant, speech–language pathologist, occupational and physical therapist, and others).

Teachers and families may use input on an informal basis or request formal assistance in identifying strategies to address a concern, in carrying out these strategies, or in monitoring individual student progress.

These services are available for all students by teacher or parent request through the counselor at the student’s school.

Families with School Age Children (5–21)

The Vinton–Shellsburg Community Schools makes available to homeless children or youth, all services and assistance of the district. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Free School Breakfast and Lunch
• Health Services
• Special Education
• Gifted Education
• English Second Language
• School fees
• Vocational Courses

For more information, contact Sandy Hamilton, HS guidance office, at (319) 436–4728 ext. 5708. You may also contact a building principal, counselor or the Superintendent of Schools, 1502 C Ave., Vinton, IA 52349; Phone (319) 436–4728.

K–12 HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

Iowa Senate File #2094 created instructional requirements for human growth and development in grades K–12. Each school district established a community advisory committee made up of parents, teachers, administrators, clergy, business people and medical professionals to develop its own health education curriculum.

A complete list of teaching/learning objectives is available for each grade level from the Director of Instructional Services. Parents/guardians may make arrangements to review instructional materials and to discuss any questions they may have about the units by contacting the building principal.

A pupil is not required to take instruction in human growth and development if the pupil’s parent or guardian files a written request that the pupil be excused from the instruction. Student excuse forms may be obtained from the building principal.

Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District Board Policy Code No. 603.5; Iowa Code §§ 256.11; 279.8; 280.3–.14 (2013). 281 I.A.C.12.5.

As a parent of a student in the Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District, under the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, you have a right to know the professional qualifications of the teachers who instruct your child. The No Child Left Behind Act gives you the right to ask for the following information about each of your child’s classroom teachers:

• Whether the State of Iowa has licensed or qualified the teacher for the grades and subjects he or she teaches.
• Whether the teacher is teaching under an emergency permit or other provisional status by which state licensing criteria have been waived.
• The teacher’s college major; whether the teacher has any advanced degrees and, if so, the subject of the degrees.

If you would like to receive any of this information and have access to internet, you may review licensure information of teachers by going to the Board of Educational Examiners’ website: www.state.ia.us/boee or please contact Karrie Bartling, Superintendent’s Secretary at the following address:

Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District

1502 C Ave., Vinton, IA 52349

No Child Left Behind Act of 2001

The Vinton–Shellsburg Community School District maintains cumulative records on each student as an aid in the instruction, guidance and educational development of the student. The records contain information about the student’s education, including identification data, attendance data, record of achievement, family background data, aptitude tests, educational and vocational plans, honors and activities, discipline data, objective counselor or teacher ratings and observations and external agency reports.

Records of each student are located in either the elementary or secondary school building, depending on where he/she is enrolled. Any exception is noted in the student’s other record or by those involved in record maintenance.

The building principals are responsible for the maintenance of school records.

The following persons, agencies and organizations may have access to student records without prior written consent of the parents or students over the age of 18 years:

• School officials and teachers with a legitimate educational interest.
• Officials of other schools in which the student plans to enroll.
• Representatives of state and local government when auditing and evaluating federal education programs.
• Parents of dependent (such as severely and profoundly handicapped) children, regardless of child’s age.
• Any other access to student records shall be only upon the parent’s or majority age student’s written consent or upon court order or legally issued subpoena.

Please be advised that within one year following the fourth anniversary of the student’s discontinuance of school enrollment,your child/children’s school cumulative file shall be destroyed by December of that year. Records of students enrolled in a special education program, or records of students who have been referred for testing by Grant Wood Area Education Agency are also on file at Grant Wood A.E.A. These Grant Wood A.E.A. folders will be destroyed, using the same guidelines mentioned above. A permanent record of the student’s name, address, phone number, and school–related information will be maintained without time limitations.

Parents of students under age 18, and students over 18 may exercise the opportunity to review educational records of the student, to obtain copies of the records, and to challenge the contents of the records on grounds of inappropriateness, inaccuracy or an invasion of privacy, and to have the records explained by school personnel.

A parent or majority age student wishing to challenge the content of the record should notify the principal in writing noting material being challenged.

Following the receipt of the challenge, an informal hearing will be held to determine the validity of the challenge. A hearing panel, appointed by the superintendent, will conduct the hearing. The panel may request that representatives from various professional disciplines present relevant information. A decision about the content will be put in writing within a reasonable period of time and will be included in the record. Should the parents or student be dissatisfied with the decision of the panel, they may request a review by the superintendent. The superintendent will either sustain, modify, or overrule the decision of the panel. If it is agreed that any information will be changed in the child’s school record, the superintendent or his/her designee will make the appropriate changes.

Parents, or a student of majority age, have the right to respond in writing to any information in the record and have the response become part of the record.

The principal of each attendance center may release the following types of information to the public, where appropriate, keeping in mind the privacy of the student and the student’s family: name, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous school or institution attended by the student.

To prevent the public release of such information, a parent must file a written objection not later than the third Monday after the beginning start date of the school year. The Parental Authorization for Releasing Student Directory Information form is available with fall registration information and also at each attendance center principal office and should be filed with the aforementioned person responsible for maintaining student records.

Students and parents may file with the U.S. Department of Education, complaints concerning alleged failures of the school district to comply with federal legislation dealing with student records. Correspondence should be addressed to: The Family Policy Compliance Office, U. S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20202–5901.

Download Private Instruction Booklet

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires annual notification of parent/student rights in identification, evaluation, and placement.

The following is a description of the rights and options granted by federal law to students with disabilities (handicaps). The intent of the law is to keep you fully informed concerning decisions about your child and to inform you of your rights if you disagree with any of these decisions. You have the right to:

Have your child take part in, and receive benefits from, public education programs without discrimination because of his/her disabling condition.

Have the school district advise you of your rights and options under federal law.

Receive notice with respect to identification, evaluation, or placement of your child.

Have your child receive a free appropriate public education. This includes the right to be educated with non–disabled students to the maximum extent appropriate. It also includes the right to have the school district make reasonable accommodations to allow your child an equal opportunity to participate in school and school–related activities.

Have your child educated in facilities and receive services comparable to those provided non–disabled students.

Have your child receive special education and related services if he/she is found to be eligible under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA–PL. 101.476), and/or general educational intervention or modifications outside of special education under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Have evaluation, educational and placement decisions made based upon a variety of information sources, and by persons who know the students, evaluation data, and placement options.

Have transportation provided to and from an alternative placement setting at no greater cost to you than would be incurred if the student were placed in a program operated by the district.

Have your child given an equal opportunity to participate in non–academic and co–curricular activities offered by the district.

Examine all relevant records relating to decisions regarding your child’s identification, evaluation, educational program, and placement.

Obtain copies of educational records at a reasonable cost unless the fee would effectively deny you access to the records.

A response from the school district to reasonable requests for explanations and interpretations of your child’s records.Request amendment of your child’s educational records if there is reasonable cause to believe that they are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy rights of your child.

Request mediation an impartial hearing, or review (appeal) related to decisions or actions regarding your child’s identification, evaluation, educational program, or placement. Hearing requests must be made to Superintendent, Vinton–Shellsburg Administrative Office, 436–4728 (enter 1).

Request a review (appeal) of the hearing should you not prevail.

Ask for payment of reasonable attorney fees if you are successful on your claim.

File a local grievance to resolve complaints of discrimination.

The District recognizes the prevalence of social media used for personal and educational purposes and acknowledges that American citizens have the right under the First Amendment to speak out on matters of public concern. However, it is essential that district patrons conduct themselves in such a way that their personal or educational use of social media does not adversely affect any other person (i.e. harassment, bullying, etc.). The purpose of this regulation is to outline expectations for social media use. Social media includes, but is not limited to: social networking websites such as MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, personal web pages or blogs, educational networking sites and electronic messaging.

Expectations for employee use of personal social media

• Refrain from accepting current students as “friends” on personal social networking sites.
• Be aware that people classified as “friends” have the ability to download and share your information with others.
• Remember that once something is posted to a social networking site it may remain available online even if you think it is removed and it may be far–reaching.
• Be aware of privacy settings and set appropriate levels of restriction.•Not use a social networking site to discuss students or employees.
• Not post images that include students.

Expectations for student use of personal social media

• Be aware that people classified as “friends” have the ability to download and share your information with others.
• Remember that once something is posted to a social networking site it may remain available online even if you think it is removed and it may be far–reaching.
• Set and maintain social networking privacy settings at the most restrictive level.
• Not use a social networking site to bully, harass, or intimidate other students. Iowa Code 708.7 1.a(1)

Expectations for use of educational networking sitesDistrict employees must:

• Notify your supervisor about the use of any educational network and discuss with your supervisor the need for notification to parents and other employees.
• Use District–supported networking tools when available.
• Be aware that all online communications are stored and can be monitored.
• Have a clear statement of purpose, conduct and outcomes for the use of the networking tool.
• Not post information about students, including images, names or other identifying information without parental release forms on file.
• Pay close attention to the site’s security settings and allow only approved participants access to the site
• Follow all applicable copyright laws

District students must:

• Follow instructor’s direction on purpose, conduct and outcomes for the use of the networking tool.
• Not post information about students, including images, names or other identifying information without instructor permission.
• Not use an educational networking site to bully, harass, or intimidate other students. Iowa Code 708.7 1.a(1)
• Follow all applicable copyright laws

Expectations for all networking sites

District employees should:

1. Not submit or post confidential or protected information about the District, its students, alumni or employees. Be aware that information about a student is protected from disclosure by both federal law(the Family EducationalRights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and state law (Iowa Code Section 22.7(1). Disclosures of confidential or protected information may result in liability for invasion of privacy or defamation.
2. Report, as required by law, any information found on a social networking site that falls under the mandatory reporting guidelines.
3. Not use commentary deemed to be defamatory, obscene, proprietary, or libelous. Exercise caution with regards to exaggeration, colorful language, guesswork, copyrighted materials, legal conclusions, and derogatory remarks or characterizations.
4. Consider whether a particular posting puts your professional reputation and effectiveness as a District employee at risk.
5. Be cautious of security risks when using applications that work with the social networking site. (Examples of these sites are calendar programs and games.)
6. Run updated malware protection to avoid infections of spyware and adware that social networking sites might place on your personal computer.
7. Be alert to the possibility of phishing scams that arrive by email or on your social networking site.
8. All school e–mail communication for personal reasons should be on a limited basis. School email is subject to review and expected to meet the high standards of morality and ethics. (ITS #8)

(Revised 7/13/17)

The District recognizes the prevalence of social media used for personal and educational purposes and acknowledges that American citizens have the right under the First Amendment to speak out on matters of public concern. However, it is essential that district patrons conduct themselves in such a way that their personal or educational use of social media does not adversely affect any other person (i.e. harassment, bullying, etc.). The purpose of this regulation is to outline expectations for social media use. Social media includes, but is not limited to: social networking websites such as MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, personal web pages or blogs, educational networking sites and electronic messaging.

Expectations for employee use of personal social media

• Refrain from accepting current students as “friends” on personal social networking sites.
• Be aware that people classified as “friends” have the ability to download and share your information with others.
• Remember that once something is posted to a social networking site it may remain available online even if you think it is removed and it may be far–reaching.
• Be aware of privacy settings and set appropriate levels of restriction.•Not use a social networking site to discuss students or employees.
• Not post images that include students.

Expectations for student use of personal social media

• Be aware that people classified as “friends” have the ability to download and share your information with others.
• Remember that once something is posted to a social networking site it may remain available online even if you think it is removed and it may be far–reaching.
• Set and maintain social networking privacy settings at the most restrictive level.
• Not use a social networking site to bully, harass, or intimidate other students. Iowa Code 708.7 1.a(1)

Expectations for use of educational networking sitesDistrict employees must:

• Notify your supervisor about the use of any educational network and discuss with your supervisor the need for notification to parents and other employees.
• Use District–supported networking tools when available.
• Be aware that all online communications are stored and can be monitored.
• Have a clear statement of purpose, conduct and outcomes for the use of the networking tool.
• Not post information about students, including images, names or other identifying information without parental release forms on file.
• Pay close attention to the site’s security settings and allow only approved participants access to the site
• Follow all applicable copyright laws

District students must:

• Follow instructor’s direction on purpose, conduct and outcomes for the use of the networking tool.
• Not post information about students, including images, names or other identifying information without instructor permission.
• Not use an educational networking site to bully, harass, or intimidate other students. Iowa Code 708.7 1.a(1)
• Follow all applicable copyright laws

Expectations for all networking sites

District employees should:

1. Not submit or post confidential or protected information about the District, its students, alumni or employees. Be aware that information about a student is protected from disclosure by both federal law(the Family EducationalRights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and state law (Iowa Code Section 22.7(1). Disclosures of confidential or protected information may result in liability for invasion of privacy or defamation.
2. Report, as required by law, any information found on a social networking site that falls under the mandatory reporting guidelines.
3. Not use commentary deemed to be defamatory, obscene, proprietary, or libelous. Exercise caution with regards to exaggeration, colorful language, guesswork, copyrighted materials, legal conclusions, and derogatory remarks or characterizations.
4. Consider whether a particular posting puts your professional reputation and effectiveness as a District employee at risk.
5. Be cautious of security risks when using applications that work with the social networking site. (Examples of these sites are calendar programs and games.)
6. Run updated malware protection to avoid infections of spyware and adware that social networking sites might place on your personal computer.
7. Be alert to the possibility of phishing scams that arrive by email or on your social networking site.
8. All school e–mail communication for personal reasons should be on a limited basis. School email is subject to review and expected to meet the high standards of morality and ethics. (ITS #8)

(Revised 7/13/17)

The District recognizes the prevalence of social media used for personal and educational purposes and acknowledges that American citizens have the right under the First Amendment to speak out on matters of public concern. However, it is essential that district patrons conduct themselves in such a way that their personal or educational use of social media does not adversely affect any other person (i.e. harassment, bullying, etc.). The purpose of this regulation is to outline expectations for social media use. Social media includes, but is not limited to: social networking websites such as MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, personal web pages or blogs, educational networking sites and electronic messaging.

Expectations for employee use of personal social media

• Refrain from accepting current students as “friends” on personal social networking sites.
• Be aware that people classified as “friends” have the ability to download and share your information with others.
• Remember that once something is posted to a social networking site it may remain available online even if you think it is removed and it may be far–reaching.
• Be aware of privacy settings and set appropriate levels of restriction.•Not use a social networking site to discuss students or employees.
• Not post images that include students.

Expectations for student use of personal social media

• Be aware that people classified as “friends” have the ability to download and share your information with others.
• Remember that once something is posted to a social networking site it may remain available online even if you think it is removed and it may be far–reaching.
• Set and maintain social networking privacy settings at the most restrictive level.
• Not use a social networking site to bully, harass, or intimidate other students. Iowa Code 708.7 1.a(1)

Expectations for use of educational networking sitesDistrict employees must:

• Notify your supervisor about the use of any educational network and discuss with your supervisor the need for notification to parents and other employees.
• Use District–supported networking tools when available.
• Be aware that all online communications are stored and can be monitored.
• Have a clear statement of purpose, conduct and outcomes for the use of the networking tool.
• Not post information about students, including images, names or other identifying information without parental release forms on file.
• Pay close attention to the site’s security settings and allow only approved participants access to the site
• Follow all applicable copyright laws

District students must:

• Follow instructor’s direction on purpose, conduct and outcomes for the use of the networking tool.
• Not post information about students, including images, names or other identifying information without instructor permission.
• Not use an educational networking site to bully, harass, or intimidate other students. Iowa Code 708.7 1.a(1)
• Follow all applicable copyright laws

Expectations for all networking sites

District employees should:

1. Not submit or post confidential or protected information about the District, its students, alumni or employees. Be aware that information about a student is protected from disclosure by both federal law(the Family EducationalRights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and state law (Iowa Code Section 22.7(1). Disclosures of confidential or protected information may result in liability for invasion of privacy or defamation.
2. Report, as required by law, any information found on a social networking site that falls under the mandatory reporting guidelines.
3. Not use commentary deemed to be defamatory, obscene, proprietary, or libelous. Exercise caution with regards to exaggeration, colorful language, guesswork, copyrighted materials, legal conclusions, and derogatory remarks or characterizations.
4. Consider whether a particular posting puts your professional reputation and effectiveness as a District employee at risk.
5. Be cautious of security risks when using applications that work with the social networking site. (Examples of these sites are calendar programs and games.)
6. Run updated malware protection to avoid infections of spyware and adware that social networking sites might place on your personal computer.
7. Be alert to the possibility of phishing scams that arrive by email or on your social networking site.
8. All school e–mail communication for personal reasons should be on a limited basis. School email is subject to review and expected to meet the high standards of morality and ethics. (ITS #8)

(Revised 7/13/17)

Regulation Code 605.3R1 outlines the process one would follow to request the reconsideration of the use of some learning materials in the district.

• Link to Policy 605.3
• Link to Regulation 605.3R(3)

Form Code 605.3E5 is the form you would use as a parent if you did not wish for your child to access a certain library book or instructional material.

• Link to Form 605.3E5

This policy outlines how members of the public may participate in School Board meetings, and how to petition the Board to place a topic on one of its meeting agendas.

• Link to Policy 213