Successful education programs require the support of the school district community. The board addresses the importance of the role of the school district community in the school district in this series of the policy manual. The board recognizes this support is dependent on the school district community's understanding of participation in the efforts, goals, problems and programs of the school district.
In this section, the board sets out its policies defining its relationship with the school district community. In striving to obtain the support of the school district community, the board will:
Provide access to school district records;
Inform the school district community of the school district's goals, objectives, achievements, and needs;
Invite the input of the school district community; and,
Encourage cooperation between the school district and the school district community.
Date Board Adopted: 7/13/1992
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Code No. 901
PUBLIC EXAMINATION OF SCHOOL DISTRICT RECORDS
Public records of the school district may be viewed by the public during the regular business hours of the District Office of the school district. These hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, except for holidays and recesses.
Persons wishing to view the school district's public records will contact the superintendent and make arrangements for the viewing. The superintendent will make arrangements for viewing the records as soon as practicable, depending on the nature of the request.
Persons may request copies of public records by telephone or in writing, including electronically. The school district may require pre-payment of the costs prior to copy and mailing.
Persons wanting copies may be assessed a reasonable fee for the copy. Persons wanting compilation of information may be assessed a reasonable fee for the time of the employee to review and compile the requested information. The district will make every effort to provide the public record requested at no cost other than copying costs for a record which takes less than thirty minutes to produce.
Costs for legal services utilized for the redaction or review of legally protected confidential information may also be assessed to the individual requesting the records. Printing of materials for the public at the expense of the school district will only occur when the event is sponsored by the school district.
Pursuant to Iowa law, the board has determined certain records need to be confidential as their disclosure could jeopardize the safety of persons or property and include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Security procedures
• Emergency preparedness procedures
• Evacuation procedures
• Security codes and passwords
• Information that if disclosed would significantly increase the vulnerability of critical physical systems or infrastructures of the district.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to maintain accurate and current records of the school district. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to respond in a timely manner to requests for viewing and receiving public information of the school district.
Date Board Adopted: 1/15/2007
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 9/19/2022
Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 21.4; 22.7; 291.6.
The board recognizes the value of and supports open, fair and honest communication with the news media. The board will maintain a cooperative relationship with the news media. As part of this cooperative relationship, the board and the media will develop a means for sharing information while respecting each party's limitations.
Members of the news media are encouraged and welcome to attend open board meetings. The board president is the spokesperson for the board, and the superintendent is the spokesperson for the school district. It is the responsibility of the board president and superintendent to respond to inquiries from the news media about the school district.
Members of the news media seeking information about the school district will direct their inquiries to the superintendent. The superintendent will accurately and objectively provide the facts and board positions in response to inquiries from the news media about the school district.
Date Board Adopted: 7/13/1992
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21.4; 22; 279.8 (2013).
The superintendent, on behalf of the board and the school district, may hold a news conference or respond to a request for an interview with the news media.
The superintendent will respond accurately, openly, honestly, and objectively to inquiries from the news media about the school district.
News conferences and interviews planned or pre-arranged for school district activities will include the board and the superintendent. News conferences for issues requiring an immediate response may be held by the superintendent. It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether a news conference or interview is held to provide an immediate response to an issue.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board apprised of news conferences and interviews.
Date Board Adopted: 5/18/2009
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21.4; 22; 279.8 (2013).
The superintendent will determine when a news release about internal school district and board matters will be issued. In making this determination, the superintendent will strive to keep the media and the school district community accurately and objectively informed. Further, the superintendent will strive to create and maintain a positive image for the school district. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to approve news releases originating within the school district prior to their release.
News releases will be prepared and disseminated to news media in the school district community. Questions about news releases will be directed to the superintendent.
Date Board Adopted: 7/13/1992
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Individuals may broadcast or record public school district events, including open board meetings, as long as it does not interfere with, or disrupt, the school district event and it does not create an undue burden in adapting the buildings and sites to accommodate the request.
It is within the discretion of the superintendent to determine whether the request is unduly burdensome and whether the broadcast or recording will interfere with or disrupt the school district event.
Recording of classroom activities will be allowed at the discretion of the superintendent or superintendent’s designee. Parents will be notified prior to recording of classroom activities.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations outlining the procedures for making the request and the rules for operation if the request is granted.
Date Board Adopted: 5/18/2009
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21.4, .7; 22; 279.8 (2013).
The board values the participation and the support of school district-community groups, including, but not limited to, the booster club and parent-teacher organizations, which strive for the betterment of the school district and the education program. The board will work closely with these groups.
Prior to any purchase of, or fund raising for the purchase of goods or services for the school district, the group will confer with the superintendent or superintendent’s designee to assist the group in purchasing goods or services to meet the school district's needs.
Funds raised by these groups for the school district are separate from the accounts of the school district.
It is the responsibility of the building principal or building principal’s designee to be the liaison with the school district-community groups affiliated with the building principal's attendance center.
Date Board Adopted: 5/18/2009
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8.
The board recognizes the valuable resource it has in the members of the school district community. When possible and in concert with the education program, members of the school district community may be asked to make presentations to the students or to assist employees in duties other than teaching. The school district may officially recognize the contributions made by volunteers.
Recruitment, training, utilization, and the maintenance of records for the purposes of insurance coverage and/or recognition of school district volunteers is the responsibility of school administration.
Volunteers within the district are held to the same high standards of behaviors as school employees and will be subject to background checks, based on their interaction with students, prior to interacting with students in a volunteer capacity. It is the responsibility of school administration to create regulations necessary to carry out this policy.
Date Board Adopted: 9/15/1986
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 670.
The board welcomes the interest of parents and other members of the school district community and invites them to visit the school buildings and sites. Visitors, which include persons other than employees or students, must notify the principal of their presence in the facility upon arrival.
Persons who wish to visit a classroom while school is in session are asked to notify the principal and obtain approval from the principal prior to the visit so appropriate arrangements can be made and so class disruption can be minimized. Teachers and other employees will not take time from their duties to discuss matters with visitors.
Visitors will conduct themselves in a manner fitting to their age level and maturity and with mutual respect and consideration for the rights of others while attending school events. Visitors failing to conduct themselves accordingly may be asked to leave the premises. Children who wish to visit school must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.
It is the responsibility of employees to report inappropriate conduct. It is the responsibility of the superintendent and principals to take the action necessary to cease the inappropriate conduct. If the superintendent or principals are not available, a school district employee will act to cease the inappropriate conduct.
Date Board Adopted: 5/18/2009
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 716.7 (2013).
The board expects that students, employees and visitors will treat each other with respect, engage in responsible behavior, exercise self-discipline and model fairness, equity and respect. Individuals violating this policy will be subject to discipline. Students will be disciplined consistent with the student conduct policies. Employees will be disciplined consistent with employee discipline policies and laws. Others will be subject to discipline according to this policy.
Individuals are permitted to attend school sponsored or approved activities or visit school premises only as guests of the school district, and, as a condition, they must comply with the school district's rules and policies. Individuals will not be allowed to interfere with or disrupt the education program or activity. Visitors, like the participants, are expected to display mature, responsible behavior. The failure of individuals to do so is not only disruptive but embarrassing to the students, the school district and the entire community.
To protect the rights of students to participate in the education program or activities without fear of interference or disruption and to permit the school officials, employees and activity sponsors and officials to perform their duties without interference or disruption, the following provisions are in effect:
Abusive, verbal or physical conduct of individuals directed at students, school officials, employees, officials and activity sponsors of sponsored or approved activities or at other individuals will not be tolerated.
Verbal or physical conduct of individuals that interferes with the performance of students, school officials, employees, officials and activity sponsors of sponsored or approved activities will not be tolerated.
The use of vulgar, obscene or demeaning expression directed at students, school officials, employees, officials and activity sponsors of sponsored or approved activities participating in a sponsored or approved activity or at other individuals will not be tolerated.
If an individual becomes physically or verbally abusive, uses vulgar, obscene or demeaning expression, or in any way interrupts an activity, the individual may be removed from the event by the individual in charge of the event. Law enforcement may be contacted for assistance.
Individuals removed from school premises have the ability to follow the board’s chain of command and complaint policies should they choose to do so. The exclusion is in effect should the individual choose to appeal the decision of the superintendent. The term “individual” as used in the policy also includes students and employees.
If an individual has been notified of exclusion and thereafter tries to enter a school building or attends a sponsored or approved activity, the individual will be advised that his/her attendance will result in prosecution.
Date Board Adopted: 11/19/2007
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .66; 716.7 (2013).
The board recognizes that students, employees, parents or citizens may want to distribute materials within the school district that are noncurricular. Noncurricular materials to be distributed must be approved by the building principal and meet certain standards prior to their distribution.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the building principals to draft administrative regulations regarding this policy.
Date Board Adopted: 7/13/1992
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: U.S. Const. amend. I.
Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260 (1988).
Bethel School District v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675 (1986).
New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325 (1985).
Tinker v. Des Moines Ind. Comm. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503 (1969).
Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987).
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.22 (2013).
I. Guidelines.
Individuals, including students, may have the right to distribute on school premises, at reasonable times and places, unofficial written material, petitions, buttons, badges or other insignia, except expression which:
1. is obscene to minors;
2. is libelous;
3. contains indecent, vulgar, profane or lewd language;
4. advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law;
5. constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses other people (e.g., threats of violence, defamation of character or of a person's race, religion, gender, disability, age or ethnic origin);
6. presents a clear and present likelihood that, either because of its content or the manner of distribution, it will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities, will cause the commission of unlawful acts or the violation of lawful school regulations.
Distribution on school premises of material in categories (1) through (4) to any student is prohibited. Distribution on school premises of material in categories (5) and (6) to a substantial number of students is prohibited.
II. Procedures.
Anyone wishing to distribute unofficial written material must first submit for approval a copy of the material to the building principal at least twenty-four hours in advance of desired distribution time, together with the following information:
1. Name and phone number of the person submitting request and, if a student, the homeroom number;
2. Date(s) and time(s) of day of intended display or distribution;
3. Location where material will be displayed or distributed;
4. The grade(s) of students to whom the display or distribution is intended.
Within twenty-four hours of submission, the principal will render a decision whether the material violates the guidelines in subsection I or the time, place and manner restrictions in subsection III of this policy. In the event that permission to distribute the material is denied, the person submitting the request should be informed in writing of the reasons for the denial. Permission to distribute material does not imply approval of its contents by either, the school, the administration, the board or the individual reviewing the material submitted.
If the person submitting the request does not receive a response within twenty-four hours of submission, the person will contact the building principal's office to verify that the lack of response was not due to an inability to locate the person. If the person has made this verification and there is no response to the request, the material may be distributed in accordance with the time, place and manner provisions in subsection III.
If the person is dissatisfied with the decision of the principal, the person may submit a written request for appeal to the superintendent. If the person does not receive a response within three school days of submitting the appeal, the person will contact the superintendent to verify that the lack of response is not due to an inability to locate the person. If the person has made this verification and there is no response to the appeal, the material may be distributed in accordance with the time, place and manner provisions in subsection III.
At every level of the process the person submitting the request will have the right to appear and present the reasons, supported by relevant witnesses and material, as to why distribution of the written material is appropriate.
Permission to distribute material does not imply approval of its contents by either, the school district, the board, the administration or the individual reviewing the material submitted.
III. Time, place and manner of distribution.
The distribution of written material is prohibited when it blocks the safe flow of traffic within corridors and entrance ways of the school or otherwise disrupts school activities. The distribution of unofficial material is limited to a reasonable time, place and manner as follows:
1. The material will be distributed from a table set up for the purpose in a location designated by the principal, which location will not block the safe flow of traffic or block the corridors or entrance ways, but which will give reasonable access to students.
2. The material will be distributed either before and/or after the regular instructional day.
3. No written material may be distributed during and at the place of a normal school activity if it is reasonably likely to cause a material and substantial disruption of that activity.
IV. Definitions.
The following definitions apply to the following terms used in this policy:
1. "Obscene to minors" is defined as:
(a) The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the written material, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest of minors of the age to whom distribution is requested;
(b) The material depicts or describes, in a manner that is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community concerning how such conduct should be presented to minors of the age to whom distribution is requested, sexual conduct such as intimate sexual acts (normal or perverted), masturbation, excretory functions, and lewd exhibition of the genitals; and
2. "Minor" means any person under the age of eighteen.
3. "Material and substantial disruption" of a normal school activity is defined as follows:
(a) Where the normal school activity is an educational program of the district for which student attendance is compulsory, "material and substantial disruption" is defined as any disruption which interferes with or impedes the implementation of that program.
(b) Where the normal school activity is voluntary in nature (including, without limitation, school athletic events, school plays and concerts, and lunch periods), "material and substantial disruption" is defined as student rioting, unlawful seizures of property, widespread shouting or boisterous demonstration, sit-in, stand-in, walk-out, or other related forms of activity.
(c)In order for expression to be considered disruptive, there must exist specific facts upon which the likelihood of disruption can be forecasted including past experience in the school, current events influencing student activities and behavior, and instances of actual or threatened disruption relating to the written material in question.
4. "School activities" means any activity of students sponsored by the school and includes, by way of example but not limited to, classroom work, library activities, physical education classes, official assemblies and other similar gatherings, school athletic contests, band concerts, school plays and in-school lunch periods.
5. "Unofficial" written material includes all written material except school newspapers, literary magazines, yearbooks, and other publications funded and/or sponsored or authorized by the school. Examples include leaflets, brochures, flyers, petitions, placards and underground newspapers, whether written by students or others.
6. "Libelous" is a false and unprivileged statement about a specific individual that tends to harm the individual's reputation or to lower him/her in the esteem of the community.
7. "Distribution" means circulation or dissemination of written material by means of handing out free copies, selling or offering copies for sale and accepting donations for copies. It includes displaying written material in areas of the school which are generally frequented by students.
V. Disciplinary action.
Distribution by any student of unofficial written material prohibited in subsection I or in violation of subsection III may be halted, and students may be subject to discipline including suspension and expulsion. Any other party violating this policy may be requested to leave the school property immediately and, if necessary, local law enforcement officials will be called.
VI. Notice of policy to students.
A copy of this policy will be published on the school district’s website.
Date Board Adopted: 2/19/2018
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Generally, transporting students for school purposes is done in a vehicle owned by the school district and driven by a school bus driver. Students may be transported in private vehicles for school purposes. It is within the discretion of the superintendent or superintendent’s designee to determine when this is appropriate.
Individuals transporting students for school purposes in private vehicles must have the permission of the superintendent or superintendent’s designee and meet all applicable requirements set by the district. Prior to transporting students in private vehicles, the district may require the following:
-The vehicle used to transport the student(s) is in good condition and meets all applicable safety requirements;
-The driver transporting the student(s) possesses a valid drivers’ license;
-Proof of insurance has been supplied to the superintendent or superintendent’s designee and the insurance satisfies the minimum coverage requirements for driving personal vehicles in the State of Iowa; and;
-The parents of the students to be transported have given written and/or verbal permission to the superintendent or superintendent’s designee.
The school district assumes no responsibility for those students who have not received the approval of the superintendent or superintendent’s designee and who ride in private vehicles for school purposes. If transportation is not provided by the school district, or if transportation provided by the school district is declined by the student or parent/guardian, then the responsibility and corresponding liability for transportation for school purposes shall rest solely with the student and parent/guardian.
This policy statement applies to transportation of students for school purposes in addition to transporting students to and from their designated attendance center.
Date Board Adopted: 7/17/2000
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 285; 321.
281 I.A.C. 43.
The use of students, the school district name, or its buildings and sites for advertising and promoting products and/or services of entities and organizations operating for a profit is not allowed except with superintendent approval. Nonprofit entities and organizations may be allowed to use students, the school district name, or its buildings and sites if the purpose is educationally related and prior approval has been obtained from the superintendent.
Date Board Adopted: 10/17/2005
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
School district facilities and equipment will be made available to local nonprofit entities which promote cultural, educational, civic, community, or recreational activities. "Entity(ies)" will include organizations, groups and individuals and their agents. Such use will be permitted only when the use does not interfere with or disrupt the education program or a school-related activity, the use is consistent with state law, and will end no later than midnight. It is within the discretion of the superintendent to allow for-profit entities to use school district facilities and equipment. The board and/or superintendent reserves the right to deny use of the facilities and equipment to an entity. It is within the discretion of the superintendent to allow use of school district facilities and equipment on Sundays.
Entities that wish to use school district facilities or equipment must apply with the activities director or the District Office. It is the responsibility of the superintendent or superintendent’s designee to determine whether the school district facility or equipment requested is available and whether the application for use meets board policy and administrative regulations. It is the responsibility of the activities director or business manager to provide application forms, obtain proof of insurance (if required), and draw up the contract for use of school district facilities and equipment.
Use of school district facilities and equipment by entities will be supervised by a school district employee unless special prior arrangements are made with the superintendent. The school district employee will not accept a fee from the entity using school district facilities and equipment. If appropriate, the school district employee may be paid by the school district.
Entities that use school district buildings, or equipment, or sites must leave the building or site in the same condition it was in prior to its use. Inappropriate use of school district facilities and equipment may result in additional fees charged to, or the inability of, the entity to use school district facilities or equipment in the future.
The superintendent may allow entities, such as the Boy and Girl Scouts and 4-H, to use the school district facilities and equipment without charge. While such entities may use the facilities and equipment without charge, they may be required to pay a custodial fee.
School buildings and facilities are available for community use at no cost provided:
1. The building's use is scheduled for the hours it is normally open and staffed.
2. No admission is charged, collected, or other attempts made to raise money.
3. The request is approved by the activities director, superintendent or their designee.
4. Permission is not sought for its regular and continued use.
5. Such use does not cause harmful alterations in the building's schedule.
6. Supervision of facilities can be accomplished by appropriate school system personnel.
7. The district incurs no direct or indirect costs for the use of the facility.
8. The use of the facility is not for an individual's personal use or for private gains, i.e., private parties, wedding receptions, etc., that would normally be held in churches or businesses in the community.
School buildings and facilities are available to nonprofit making resident citizen's groups during hours when the building is usually closed, when:
1. The request is approved by the activities director, superintendent or their designee.
2. The use of the building does not cause scheduling problems.
3. The appropriate school staff can supervise the facility.
Groups raising money for school use shall not be charged the use of school facilities. Groups raising money for youth, but non-school activities, shall be charged only for the cost incurred by the school.
School affiliated groups or local organizations sponsoring community service programs are exempt from all charges provided no supervisory or housekeeping services are needed. If supervision or housekeeping of facilities is necessary, the fees shall be the direct costs incurred by the school.
If it is established that the major portion of the money raised at a fundraising activity will be used for local community benefits or local charities, the fees charged shall be the direct costs incurred by the school.
All staff groups and teachers and student groups may use school facilities with prior approval of the activities director, superintendent or their designee.
A teacher and adult mixed group may use the facilities with prior approval of the activities director, superintendent or their designee, but are expected to pay the stipulated hourly rental fee for nonprofit groups.
When necessary, special arrangements regarding the cost of using the facilities may be made in the interest of a youth or community recreational activity.
Under unusual circumstances, such as an overriding community need, the superintendent may approve the use of school facilities without cost.
Adult education sponsored by tax supported educational organizations may use the facilities without cost during normal hours. Other educational institutions will pay a fee agreed upon by the superintendent or designee.
Fees for Nonprofit Groups when the building is not normally in use (when a custodian is not normally present).
Classrooms - $25.00 per hour plus custodial fees and/or supervisory fees.
Cafeteria/Lobby Areas - $50.00 per hour plus cook and custodial fees and/or supervisory fees.
Library and Band Rooms - $50.00 per hour plus custodial fees and/or supervisory fees.
Elementary, Middle School, and High School Gyms - $75.00 per hour plus custodial fees and/or supervisory fees.
Fine Arts Center - $75.00 per hour plus custodial fees and/or supervisory fees.(An extra fee to cover costs shall be charged for the use of spotlights, stage scenery, etc. where the use of such equipment or items are an additional cost incurred by the school. Such cost will be determined by the business manager or designee.)
Outside Fields--baseball, softball, football, track, practice fields, etc…- $500 per event.
Fees for Profit Making Groups (groups whose intent is to benefit or make a profit for an individual or members of the group.)
Classrooms - $40.00 per hour or 10% of the funds raised, whichever is greater, plus custodial fees and/or supervisory fees.
Cafeteria/Lobby Areas - $75.00 per hour or 10% of the funds raised, whichever is greater, plus cook, custodial fees and/or supervisory fees.
Library and Band Rooms - $75.00 per hour or 10% of the funds raised, whichever is greater, plus custodial fees and/or supervisory fees.
Elementary, Middle School, and High School Gyms - $125.00 per hour or 10% of the funds raised, whichever is greater, plus custodial fees and/or supervisory fees.
Fine Arts Center - $125.00 per hour or 10% of the funds raised, whichever is greater, plus custodial fees and/or supervisory fees. (An extra fee to cover costs shall be charged for the use of spotlights, stage scenery, etc. where the use of such equipment or items are an additional cost incurred by the school. Such cost will be determined by the business manager or designee.)
Outside Fields--baseball, softball, football, track, practice fields, etc… - $750 per event or 10% of the funds raised, whichever is greater, plus custodial fees and/or supervisory fees.
On all matters relating to the interpretation or appeal of this policy, the board's decision will be final.
Date Board Adopted: 8/11/1986
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 8D; 123.46; 276; 278.1(4); 279.8; 297.9-.11.
1936 Op. Att'y Gen. 196.
COMMUNITY USE OF SCHOOL DISTRICT FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT APPLICATION FORM
The undersigned entity makes application for the use of the school district facility or equipment as designated below. The entity will provide police protection at its own expense, if necessary, to maintain order and to properly protect the building, site, or equipment. Police protection is required when admission is charged.
Please refer to Policy 905.1R1 to determine the proper use of school facilities and equipment. The entity is responsible for complying with the law, board policy and the administrative regulations.
The entity must provide an Indemnity and Liability Insurance Agreement, Policy 905.1E2, prior to the use of school district buildings, sites, or equipment
Denison Community Schools
Agreement to Use Facilities
Date__________________________
Name of Organization____________________________________________________
____School Organization ____Non-Profit ____Profit-Making
Organization person in charge_____________________________________________
Address________________________________ Phone___________________
Email__________________________________
Facilities Requested_____________________________________________________
Facilities will be used for__________________________________________________
Date or dates requested__________________________________________________
Time requested_________________________________________________________
School contact person____________________________________________________
Special Instructions______________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Certificate of Insurance provided_________________
Fees_______________________________________________
Denison Community Schools Organization using facility
_____________________________
Signature
_____________________________
Title
_____________________________
Phone
Date Board Adopted: 10/19/2009
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
COMMUNITY USE OF SCHOOL DISTRICT FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT INDEMNITY AND LIABILITY INSURANCE AGREEMENT
The undersigned, hereafter referred to as "entity," states that it will hold the Denison School District, hereafter referred to as "school district," harmless from any and all damages and claims that may arise by reason of any negligence on the part of the entity in the use of any facilities or equipment owned by the school district. In case any action is brought therefore against the school district or any of its officers, employees or agents, the entity will assume full responsibility for the legal defense thereof, and upon its failure to do so on proper notice, the school district reserves the right to defend such action and to charge all costs, including attorneys' fees, to the entity.
The entity agrees to furnish and maintain during the usage of the facilities or equipment owned by the school district such bodily injury and property damage liability insurance as will protect the entity and the school district from claims or damages for personal injury, including accidental death, and from claims for property damages which may arise from the entity's use of the school district's facilities or equipment whether such operations be by the entity or by anyone directly or indirectly employed by the entity.
The entity will furnish the school district with a certificate of insurance acceptable to the school district's insurance carrier before the contract is issued.
Dated at , Iowa, this day of , 20 .
Name of Entity:
Signature and Title:
Denison Community School District
Signature Superintendent:
Date Board Adopted: 10/19/2009
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
COMMUNITY USE OF SCHOOL DISTRICT FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT REGULATION
(1) Use of tobacco/nicotine on school property shall not be allowed, including in private vehicles.
(2) There shall be no alcoholic liquors or beverages brought to or consumed in the building or on the grounds.
(3) When a school building is being used, cleaning will be performed by school employees assisted by a committee from the outside group. Labor for such work will be charged to the group through the fee charged for building use. When additional custodial and supervisory personnel are needed for setup, cleanup, supervision, etc., an additional charge per hour may be added to defray such expenses.
(4) Personnel assigned to supervise a building for non-school activities may be requested to perform special school jobs if activities of the non-school groups do not require their attention.
(5) Applications for the use of school facilities should be made through the activities director, superintendent or their designee. All users are required to sign a rental agreement.
(6) All groups using school facilities must have responsible adult supervision present at all times to assure proper care and use of school property. A principal or qualified responsible school employee on paid or volunteer status must be in attendance to unlock, supervise and re-lock the facility each time it is used for non-school purposes. Supervisors must be present during the duration of the activity. Exceptions to this policy must be written on the rental contract.
(7) The school may request damage deposits. All damages to school property shall be repaired and billed to the sponsoring individual or organization.
(8) Users are responsible for the facilities and are responsible for any breakage or damage that occurs. Users are responsible for the proper control of activities and persons using school facilities and equipment so that all safety factors are observed. Users are responsible for the correction of minor and easily correctable safety factors and are asked to report all others immediately or on the next working day, as warranted, to the principal.
(9) Users agree to hold the district harmless from any and all liability arising out of the user’s negligence or omissions while using the school facilities or equipment.
(10) Business, non-profit and/or for-profit groups and individuals may be required to furnish a certificate of liability insurance prior to the execution of the rental contract.
(11) School buildings and grounds will be available only during the time listed on the contract. Likewise, only those buildings and grounds listed on the contract will be available, and activities should be confined to the stated area.
(12) The serving of food in school buildings by a commercial caterer is permitted, but must be first approved by the business office and stated in the rental contract. If school kitchen facilities or equipment are to be used, appropriate food service personnel of the school will be present at all times. The wages of such personnel shall be part of the fees charged for the use of the facility.
(13) The school reserves the right to adopt and enforce additional rules and regulations as may be deemed appropriate in individual cases.
(14) All persons participating in physical education or athletic activities will wear approved gymnasium shoes. Food and drinks will be permitted in designated areas only.
(15) Moving and adjusting scenery, securing lighting effects, operating the public address system, and similar matters will be accomplished under the direction of a designated school employee.
(16) All properties not belonging to the school are to be removed after the last performance or the day after use of school facilities.
Date Board Adopted: 7/13/1992
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Tobacco and nicotine use is prohibited on school district facilities and grounds, including school vehicles. This requirement extends to students, employees and visitors. This policy applies at all times, including school-sponsored and non-school-sponsored events. Persons failing to abide by this request are required to extinguish their smoking material, dispose of the tobacco, nicotine or other product or leave the school district premises immediately. It is the responsibility of the administration to enforce this policy.
Date Board Adopted: 1/15/2007
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. 6083
Iowa Code §§ 142D; 279.8, .9; 297.
The board believes weapons, other dangerous objects and look-a-likes in school district facilities and at school district-approved events cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the school district.
All weapons, dangerous objects and look-a-likes are prohibited to be carried, possessed, transported or otherwise stored on school district property and to school district-approved events. Exceptions to this policy include weapons carried by the following individuals in performance of their official duties:
Individuals found to be in violation of this district policy will be required to immediately remove the weapon, dangerous object or look-a-likes from the school district property or event. Students found to be in violation of this policy or any other board policies related to weapons will be subject to disciplinary proceedings.
Date Board Adopted: 8/16/2021
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
Legal Reference: 18 U.S.C. § 921
Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 280.21B; 483A.27(11), 724
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6)
The following policy applies to the extent not preempted by federal or state regulatory jurisdiction regarding unmanned aircrafts. For purposes of this policy, the term “unmanned aircraft” means an aircraft that is operated without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the aircraft.
The Denison Community School believes in maintaining the safety, security, and privacy of students, employees, and visitors. In keeping with this belief, the use or possession of unmanned aircrafts is prohibited on district property or in the space above the property that reasonably can be considered part of the district property.
The superintendent may make an exception to this policy in specific cases where the circumstances warrant such exception.
If the unmanned aircrafts are operated as part of the district curriculum, prior to adoption into the curriculum, district employees shall work with district administration to ensure the appropriate insurance, registration, and authorizations are in place.
Unmanned aircrafts shall be operated in accordance with Iowa High School Athletic Association and Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union policy.
Failure to abide by this policy may result in local, state, and federal penalties if applicable.
Date Board Adopted: 12/21/2015
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012, P.L. 112-95, Title III, Subtitle B. Model Aircraft Operating Standards, FFA AC No. 91-57A (Sept. 2, 2015). OFFICE OF CHIEF COUNSEL, FED. AVIATION ADMIN., State and Local Regulation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Fact Sheet (Dec. 17, 2015). Iowa Code § 279.8.
IHSAA Drone Policy
The district believes that student learning is the heart of its core mission. While traditional in-person teaching continues to provide the greatest learning opportunity to all students, there may be rare and unusual circumstances that prevent the school community from convening in traditional in-person settings. At times of a public emergency declared by federal, state or local officials, the district will seek guidance and recommendations from federal, state and local agencies to assist in determining the safety of convening traditional in-person learning.
During a declared public emergency, the school board delegates to the Superintendent the authority to determine whether to close school buildings to traditional in-person learning if the Superintendent determines in-person learning would hinder the health and safety of the school community. The district will instead utilize remote or hybrid learning opportunities permitted by law.
Following guidance and recommendations from federal, state, and local agencies when reasonably possible, the administration will create regulations related to district operations during a public emergency, including, but not limited to, student, employee and visitor safety and security; the use and safeguarding of district property; public meetings and events, and when applicable, measures to prevent or slow the spread of infectious disease.
These measures will be enforced for the period of time of the public emergency, or until the superintendent, in consultation with federal, state and local agencies determine it is appropriate for the safety measures to end.
Legal Reference: Senate File 2310
Iowa Code ch. 279.8
Date Board Adopted: 7/20/2020
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022
During a public health emergency, the district will seek guidance and recommendations from federal, state and local agencies that monitor and respond to the emergency. The district will follow any mandatory closures or other mandatory measures imposed by such agencies.
The superintendent, in conjunction with relevant government agencies and/or athletic and activity associations, will determine under what circumstances the district will restrict or cancel in-person learning, student events or activities including sporting events, extracurricular clubs or meetings for students, and the use of district facilities by outside organizations.
The district will promote and follow other recommended measures and guidance from federal, state and local agencies to the extent reasonably practicable under the circumstances. These measures may include, but are not limited to the following:
On-line learning, hybrid models of learning, or modified in-person learning may occur dependent on the circumstances and in accordance with applicable law.
Due to the increased cost to the district of providing additional cleaning and disinfecting measures and in order to preserve cleaning supplies for school use during the time of a public health emergency, the superintendent has discretion to require, as a condition of using district facilities, non-school groups to provide the school district with EPA-approved cleaning and disinfecting supplies to properly clean and disinfect the space used after each event. The district may also require non-school groups to reimburse the district the actual cost of school personnel time needed to clean and disinfect school facilities after the event.
Date Board Adopted: 7/20/2020
Date Board Updated/Reviewed: 03/21/2022