Code No. 200.1
ORGANIZATION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Schleswig Community School District board is authorized by and derives its organization from Iowa law. The board will consist of five board members. Board members are elected at-large.
The board is organized for the purpose of setting policy and providing general direction for the school district. The board will hold its organizational meeting at or before the first regular meeting following the canvass of votes. The retiring board will transfer materials, including the board policy manual, and responsibility to the new board.
The organizational meeting allows the outgoing board to approve minutes of its previous meetings, complete unfinished business and review the school election results. The retiring board will adjourn and the new board will then begin. The Board Secretary will administer the oath of office to the newly elected board members. The Board Secretary will preside while the new board elects the president and vice-president of the new board.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 274.2; 275.23A; 277.23, .28, .31; 279.1, .5, .7, .8 , .33.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).
The board will hold its organizational meeting in odd-numbered years at the first regular meeting following the canvass of votes. Notice of the meeting's place and time will be given by the board secretary to each member, member-elect and the public.
The purpose of the meeting is to transfer material and responsibility from the outgoing board to the new board. At the meeting, the board will elect a president and a vice president who will hold office for one year. Once elected, the president and vice president will be entitled to vote on all matters before the board.
Meeting Procedure
The organizational meeting of the board will be held in two parts: the final meeting of the outgoing board and the organizational meeting of the new board.
1. Final Meeting of the Retiring Board
(1) Call to order.
(2) Roll call.
(3) Guests and Correspondence
(4) Consent Items (Agenda, Minutes, Bills and Financial Reports).
(5) Personnel (Appointments and Resignations).
(6) Review of election results. The board secretary will present the county auditor's official report on the latest elections. Official results are recorded in the minutes.
(7) Treasurer’s Report for past year.
(8) Adjournment of the retiring board.
2. Organizational Meeting of the New Board
(1) Board Secretary as president pro-tem, will preside over the meeting until a new board president is elected.
(2) Call to order.
(3) Roll call.
(4) Oath of office. The board secretary will administer the oath to new members.
(5) Election of a president of the board. The president pro-tem calls for nominations; nominations need not be seconded. The board will then vote on the nominations. The secretary will announce the result of the vote, and the Board Secretary administer the oath of office to the newly elected president and the newly elected president will assume the chair.
(6) Election of the vice-president. The president of the board will call for nominations; the nominations need not be seconded. The board will then vote on the nominations. The president will announce the results and administer the oath of office to the vice-president.
Other items of business at the organizational meeting may include:
(7) Statutory Appointments.
(8) Superintendent's report.
(9) Adjournment.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 274.2; 275.23A; 277; 281 I.A.C 12.3.
The board, acting on behalf of the school district, will have jurisdiction over school matters within the territory of the school district.
The board is empowered to make policy for its own governance, for employees, for students and for school district facilities. The board is also empowered to enforce its policies. The board may, through its quasi-judicial power, conduct hearings and rule on issues and disputes confronting the school district.
The board has these powers and all other powers expressly granted to it in federal and state law as well as the powers that can be reasonably implied from the express powers.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Board of Directors of Ind. School Dist. of Waterloo v. Green, 259 Iowa 1260, 147 N.W.2d 854 (1967).
Iowa Code §§ 28E; 274.1-.2; 279.8 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.1(2).
1990 Op. Att'y Gen. 66.
Code No. 200.3
RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The board is authorized to govern the school district which it oversees. The board is entrusted with public funds and is responsible for overseeing the improvement of student outcomes, including student academic achievement and skill proficiency. As the governing board of the school district, the board has four duties to perform: legislative duty, executive duty, evaluative duty, and quasi-judicial duty.
As a representative of the citizens of the school district community, the board is responsible for legislating policy for the school district. As a policy making body, the board has jurisdiction to enact policy with the force and effect of law for the management and operation of the school district.
It is the responsibility of the board, under the board's executive duty, to select its chief executive officer, the superintendent, to operate the school district on the board's behalf. The board delegates to the superintendent its authority to carry out board policy, to formulate and carry out rules and regulations and to handle the administrative details in a manner which supports and is consistent with board policy.
The board has a responsibility to review the education program's performance under its evaluative duty. The board regularly reviews the education program and ancillary services. The review includes a careful study and examination of the facts, conditions and circumstances surrounding the amount of funds received or expended and the education program's ability to achieve the board's educational philosophy and goals for the school district.
The board fulfills its quasi-judicial duties in serving as a neutral arbiter for hearings related to student suspension or expulsion proceedings and certain employment termination hearings and appeals. This important power was granted by the Iowa Legislature and cannot be delegated. To preserve the board’s neutrality to hear and decide upon these matters, the board does not investigate or become involved in student disciplinary matters or employment matters that may come before it and would require the board to serve in its quasi-judicial role.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 7/11/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 274.1; 279.1, .8, .20; 280.12.
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).
The school election takes place on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of odd-numbered years. Each school election is used to elect citizens to the board to maintain a 5 member board and to address questions that are submitted to the voters.
Citizens of the school district community seeking a seat on the board must file their nomination papers with the board secretary, or the board secretary's designee, in accordance with the timelines established by law.
If a vacancy occurs on the board it shall be filled in accordance with law and board policy.
It is the responsibility of the county commissioner of elections to conduct school elections.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 39; 45; 63; 69; 274.7; 277; 278.1, 279.7 .
Serving on the board of directors is an honor and privilege. Its rewards are respect from the community, students, and employees and the satisfaction from knowing each board member contributed to the success of the children in the school district community. Only those who are willing to put forth the effort to care and to make a difference should consider running for a position on the board.
Individuals who are willing to serve on the board should believe public education is important, support the democratic process, willingly devote time and energy to board work, respect educators and have the ability to examine the facts and make a decision. The board believes an individual considering a position on the school board should possess these characteristics.
Citizens wanting to run for a position on the board must be a citizen of the school district, an eligible elector of the district and free from a financial conflict of interest with the position.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 63; 68B; 277.4, .27; 279.7A (2013).
Board members are officials of the state. As a public official, each board member must pledge to uphold the Iowa and the United States Constitution and carry out the responsibilities of the office to the best of the board member's ability.
Each newly-elected board member will take the oath of office prior to any action taken as a school official. The oath of office is taken by each new board member elected at the school election at or before the organizational meeting of the board. In the event of an appointment or special election to fill a vacancy, the new board member will take the oath of office within ten days of the appointment or election.
Board members elected to offices of the board will also take the same oath of office but replacing the office of board member with the title of the office to which they were elected.
The oath of office is administered by the board secretary and does not need to be given at a board meeting. In the event the board secretary is absent, the oath is administered by another board member.
"Do you solemnly swear that you will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the state of Iowa, and that you will faithfully and impartially to the best of your ability discharge the duties of the office of _____________________ (naming the office) in _________________ (naming the district) as now and hereafter required by law?"
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 277.28; 279.1, .6 (2013).
Board members elected for a full term at a regularly scheduled school election in November, of odd-numbered years, serve for four years. Board members appointed to fill a vacant position will serve until a successor is elected and qualified at the next regular school election, unless there is an intervening special election for the school district, in which event a successor shall be elected at the intervening special election. A board member elected to fill a vacancy will serve out the unexpired term.
Being a board member is a unique opportunity for a citizen to participate on a governing board of the school district. Eligible board members are encouraged to consider running for more than one term.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 69.12; 274.7; 279.6; 279.7
A vacancy occurs as provided by law, which includes but it not limited to when a board member dies, resigns or leaves office, or fails to reside in the school district or director district.
If a vacancy occurs prior to the expiration of a term of office, the vacancy will be filled by board appointment within 30 days of the vacancy. The board shall publish notice stating that the board intends to fill the vacancy by appointment, but the electors of the school district have the right to file a petition requiring the vacancy be filled by a special election.
A person appointed to fill a vacancy shall hold office until a successor is elected and qualified at the next regular school election, unless there is an intervening special election for the school district, in which event a successor shall be elected at the intervening special election.
If the board is unable to fill a vacancy by appointment within 30 days after the vacancy occurs or if a valid petition is submitted, the board secretary will call a special election to be held no sooner than 60 days and not later than 70 days after the vacancy occurred. A board member elected at the special election will serve the remaining portion of the unexpired term.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21.6; 69; 277.29; 279
Good v. Crouch, 397 N.W.2d 757 (Iowa 1986).
Board of Directors of Grimes Independent School Dist. v. County Board of Public Instruction of Polk Co., 257 Iowa 106, 131 N.W.2d 802 (1965).
Board of Directors of Menlo Consol. School Dist. v. Blakesburg, 240 Iowa 910, 36 N.W.2d 751 (1949).1944 Op. Att'y Gen. 39.
Code No. 203
BOARD OF DIRECTORS' CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Board members must be able to make decisions objectively. It is a conflict of interest for a board member to receive direct compensation from the school district, unless exempted in law or policy, for anything other than reimbursement of actual and necessary expenses, including travel, incurred in the performance of official duties. A board member will not act as an agent for a school textbooks or school supplies including sports apparel or equipment, in any transaction with a director, officer, or other staff member of the school district during the board member’s term of office. It will not be a conflict of interest for board members to receive compensation from the school district for contracts for the purchase of goods or services which benefits a board member, or to compensation for part-time or temporary employment which benefits a board member, if the benefit to the board member does not exceed $20,000 in a fiscal year or if the contracts are made by the board, upon competitive bid in writing, publicly invited and opened.
The conflict of interest provisions do not apply to a contract that is a bond, note or other obligation of a school corporation if the contract is not acquired directly from the school corporation, but is acquired in a transaction with a third party, who may or may not be the original underwriter, purchaser, or obligee of the contract, or to a contract in which a director has an interest solely by reason of employment if the contract was made by competitive bid, in writing, publicly invited and opened, or if the remuneration for employment will not be directly affected as a result of the contract and duties of employment do not involve any of the preparation or procurement of any part of the contract. The competitive bid section of the conflict of interest provision does not apply to a contract for professional services not customarily awarded by competitive bid.
It will also be a conflict of interest for a board member to engage in any outside employment or activity which is in conflict with the board member’s official duties and responsibilities. In determining whether outside employment or activity of a board member creates a conflict of interest, situations in which an unacceptable conflict of interest is deemed to exist includes, but are not limited to, any of the following:
(1) The outside employment or activity involves the use of the school district’s time, facilities, equipment and supplies or the use of the school district badge, uniform, business card or other evidence of office to give the board member or member of the board member’s immediate family an advantage or pecuniary benefit that is not available to other similarly situated members or classes of members of the general public. For purposes of this section, a person is not “similarly situated” merely by being related to a board member.
(2) The outside employment or activity involves the receipt of, promise of, or acceptance of money or other consideration by the board member or a member of the board member’s immediate family from anyone other than the state or the school district for the performance of any act that the board member would be required or expected to perform as part of the board member’s regular duties or during the hours in which the board member performs service or work for the school district.
(3) The outside employment or activity is subject to the official control, inspection, review, audit, or enforcement authority of the board member, during the performance of the board member’s duties of office or employment.
If the outside employment or activity is employment or activity in (1) or (2) above, the board member must cease the employment of or activity. If the activity or employment falls under (3), then the board member must:
• Cease the outside employment or activity; or;
• Publicly disclose the existence of the conflict and refrain from taking any official action or performing any official duty that would detrimentally affect or create a benefit for the outside employment or activity. Official action or official duty includes, but is not limited to, participating in any vote, taking affirmative action to influence any vote, determining the facts or law in a contested case or rulemaking proceeding, conducting any inspection, or providing any other official service or thing that is not available generally to members of the public in order to further the interests of the outside employment or activity.
When procurement is supported by Federal Child Nutrition funds, board members will not participate in the selection, award, or administration of a contract if there is a real or apparent conflict of interest in the contract. Contract, for purposes of this paragraph, includes a contract where the board member, board member’s immediate family, partner, or a non-school district employer of these individuals is a party to the contract.
It is the responsibility of each board member to be aware of and take the action necessary to eliminate a potential conflict of interest should it arise.
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Legal Reference: |
22 C.F.R. § 518.42. |
Date Board Adopted 12/19/2012
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 9/12/2022
Board members' actions, verbal and nonverbal, reflect the attitude and the beliefs of the school district. Therefore, board members must conduct themselves professionally and in a manner fitting to their position.
Each board member shall follow the code of ethics stated in this policy.
AS A SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER:
1. I will listen.
2. I will respect the opinion of others.
3. I will recognize the integrity of my predecessors and associates and the merit of their work.
4. I will be motivated only by an earnest desire to serve my school district and the children of my school district community in the best possible way.
5. I will not use the school district or any part of the school district program for my own personal advantage or for the advantage of my friends or supporters.
6. I will vote for a closed session of the board if the situation requires it, but I will consider "star chamber" or "secret" sessions of board members unethical.
7. I will recognize that to promise in advance of a meeting how I will vote on any proposition which is to be considered is to close my mind and agree not to think through other facts and points of view which may be presented in the meeting.
8. I will expect, in board meetings, to spend more time on education programs and procedures than on business details.
9. I will recognize that authority rests with the board in legal session and not with individual members of the board, except as authorized by law.
10. I will make no disparaging remarks, in or out of the board meeting, about other members of the board or their opinions.
11. I will express my honest and most thoughtful opinions frankly in board meetings in an effort to have decisions made for the best interests of the children and the education program.
12. I will insist that the members of the board participate fully in board action and recommend that when special committees are appointed, they serve only in an investigative and advisory capacity.
13. I will abide by majority decisions of the board.
14. I will carefully consider petitions, resolutions and complaints and will act in the best interests of the school district.
15. I will not discuss the confidential business of the board in my home, on the street or in my office; the place for such discussion is the board meeting.
16. I will endeavor to keep informed on local, state and national educational developments of significance so I may become a better board member.
IN MEETING MY RESPONSIBILITY TO MY SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMUNITY
1. I will consider myself a trustee of public education and will do my best to protect it, conserve it, and advance it, giving to the children of my school district community the educational facilities that are as complete and adequate as it is possible to provide.
2. I will consider it an important responsibility of the board to interpret the aims, methods and attitudes of the school district to the community.
3. I will earnestly try to interpret the needs and attitudes of the school district community and do my best to translate them into the education program of the school district.
4. I will attempt to procure adequate financial support for the school district.
5. I will represent the entire school district rather than individual electors, patrons or groups.
6. I will not regard the school district facilities as my own private property but as the property of the people.
IN MY RELATIONSHIP WITH SUPERINTENDENT AND EMPLOYEES
1. I will function, in meeting the legal responsibility that is mine, as a part of a legislative, evaluative, policy-forming body, not as an administrative officer.
2. I will recognize that it is my responsibility, together with that of my fellow board members, to see the school district is properly run and not to run them myself.
3. I will expect the school district to be administered by the best-trained technical and professional people it is possible to procure within the financial resources of the school district.
4. I will recognize the superintendent as executive officer of the board.
5. I will work through the administrative employees of the board, not over or around them.
6. I will expect the superintendent to keep the board adequately informed through oral and written reports.
7. I will vote to employ employees only after the recommendation of the superintendent has been received.
8. I will insist that contracts be equally binding on teachers and the board.
9. I will give the superintendent power commensurate with the superintendent's responsibility and will not in any way interfere with, or seek to undermine, the superintendent's authority.
10. I will give the superintendent friendly counsel and advice.
11. I will present any personal criticism of employees to the superintendent.
12. I will refer complaints to the proper administrative officer.
TO COOPERATE WITH OTHER SCHOOL BOARDS
1. I will not employ a superintendent, principal or teacher who is already under contract with another school district without first securing assurance from the proper authority that the person can be released from contract.
2. I will consider it unethical to pursue any procedure calculated to embarrass a neighboring board or its representatives.
3. I will not recommend an employee for a position in another school district unless I would employ the employee under similar circumstances.
4. I will answer all inquiries about the standing and ability of an employee to the best of my knowledge and judgment, with complete frankness.
5. I will associate myself with board members of other school districts for the purpose of discussing school district issues and cooperating in the improvement of the education program.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21.6(3)(d); 68B; 69; 277.28; 279.7A, 279.8, 301.28 (2013)
Board members will not be held personally liable for actions taken in the performance of their duties and responsibilities vested in them by the laws of Iowa and the members of the school district community. In carrying out the duties and responsibilities of their office, board members will act in good faith.
The school district will defend, save harmless and indemnify board members against tort claims or demands, whether groundless or otherwise, arising out of an alleged act or omission occurring within the scope of their official duties, unless the act constitutes a willful or wanton act or omission. The school district, however, cannot save harmless or indemnify board members for punitive damages.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Wood v. Strickland, 420 U.S. 308 (1975).
42 U.S.C. §§ 1983, 1985 (2012).
Iowa Code ch. 670 (2013).
It is the responsibility of the board president to lead a well-organized board in an efficient and effective manner. The board president will set the tone of the board meetings and, as the representative of the consensus of the board, speak on behalf of the board to the public.
The president of the board is elected to serve a one-year term by a majority vote at the organizational meeting in odd-numbered years, or, in even-numbered years, at a regular meeting held between twelve to thirteen months after the most recent organizational meeting.
The president, in addition to presiding at the board meetings, will take an active role in board decisions by discussing and voting on each motion before the board in the same manner as other board members. Before making or seconding a motion, the board president will turn over control of the meeting to either the vice-president or other board member.
The board president has the authority to call special meetings of the board.
The board president, as the chief officer of the school district, will sign employment contracts and sign other contracts and school district warrants approved by the board and appear on behalf of the school corporation in causes of action involving the school district.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.1-.2; 291.1.
The vice-president of the board is elected by a majority vote at the organizational meeting in odd-numbered years, or, in even-numbered years, at a regular meeting held between twelve to thirteen months after the most recent organizational meeting, to serve a one-year term of office.
By this election, if the board president is unable or unwilling to carry out the duties required, it is the responsibility of the Vice-President of the board to carry out the duties of the president. If the president is unable or unwilling to complete the term of office, the vice-president will serve as president for the balance of the president's term of office, and a new vice-president will be elected.
The vice-president will accept control of the meeting from the president when the president wishes to make or second a motion. The vice-president will take an active role in board decisions by discussing and voting on matters before the board in the same manner as other board members.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.5.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.5.
A board secretary-treasurer may be appointed from employees, other than a position requiring a teaching certificate, or from the public. To finalize the appointment, the board secretary-treasurer will take the oath of office during the meeting at which the individual was appointed or no later than ten days thereafter.
It is the responsibility of the board secretary-treasurer, as custodian of school district records, to preserve and maintain the records and documents pertaining to the business of the board; to keep complete minutes of special and regular board meetings, including closed sessions; to keep a record of the results of regular and special elections; to keep an accurate account of school funds; to sign warrants drawn on the school funds after board approval; and collect data on truant students. The board secretary-treasurer will also be responsible for filing the required reports with the Iowa Department of Education.
It is the responsibility of the secretary-treasurer to oversee the investment portfolio, to receive funds of the school district, to pay out the funds for expenses approved by the board, to maintain accurate accounting records for each fund, to report monthly regarding the investment portfolio and the status of each fund and to file required reports with the appropriate state agencies and other entities.
In the event the board secretary-treasurer is unable to fulfill the responsibilities set out by the board and the law, a designee will assume those duties until the board secretary-treasurer is able to resume the responsibility or a new board secretary-treasurer is appointed. The board secretary-treasurer will give bond in an amount set by the board. The cost of the bond will be paid by the school district.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 12B.10; 12C; 64; 279.3, .5, .7, .31-.33, .35; 291.2-.4, .6-.12, .14; 299.10, (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(1).
1978 Op. Att'y Gen. 328.
It is the responsibility of the board to employ legal counsel to assist the board and the administration in carrying out their duties with respect to the numerous legal issues confronting the school district. The board may appoint legal counsel at its annual meeting.
The superintendent, board secretary/treasurer, and business manager will have the authority to contact the board's legal counsel on behalf of the board when the superintendent, board secretary/treasurer, and/or business manager believes it is necessary for the management of the school district. The board's legal counsel will attend both regular and special school board meetings upon the request of the board or the superintendent. Board members may contact legal counsel upon approval of a majority of the board. It is the responsibility of each board member to pay the legal fees, if any, of an attorney the board member consulted regarding matters of the school district unless the board has authorized the board member to consult an attorney on the matter.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board informed of matters for which legal counsel was consulted, particularly if the legal services will involve unusual expense for the school district.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Bishop v. Iowa State Board of Public Instruction, 395 N.W.2d 888 (Iowa 1986).
Iowa Code § 279.37 (2013).
Whenever the board deems it necessary, the board may appoint a committee composed of citizens, employees or students to assist the board. Committees formed by the board are ad hoc committees.
An ad hoc committee may be formed by board resolution which will outline the duties and purpose of the committee. The committee is advisory in nature and has no duty or responsibility other than that specifically stated in the board resolution. The committee will automatically dissolve upon the delivery of its final recommendation to the board or upon completion of the duties outlined in the board resolution. The board will receive the report of the committee for consideration. The board retains the authority to make a final decision on the issue. The committee may be subject to the open meetings law.
The method for selection of committee members will be stated in the board resolution. When possible, and when the necessary expertise required allows, the committee members will be representative of the school district community and will consider the various viewpoints on the issue. The board may designate a board member and the superintendent to serve on an ad hoc committee. The committee will select its own chairperson, unless the board designates otherwise.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8; 280.12(2) (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(3), .3(8); .5(8).
O.A.G., Nov. 18, 1993
Ad Hoc Committee Purpose and Function
The specific purpose of each ad hoc committee varies. Generally, the primary function of an ad hoc committee is to give specific advice and suggestions. The advice and suggestions should focus on the purpose and duties stated in the board resolution establishing the committee. It is the board's role to take action based on information received from the ad hoc committee and other sources. Ad hoc committees may be subject to the open meetings law.
Role of an Ad Hoc Committee Member
The primary role of an ad hoc committee member is to be a productive, positive member of the committee. In doing so, it is important to listen to and respect the opinions of others. When the ad hoc committee makes a recommendation to the board, it is important for the ad hoc committee members to support the majority decision of the ad hoc committee. An ad hoc committee will function best when its members work within the committee framework and bring items of business to the ad hoc committee.
Ad Hoc Committee Membership
Ad hoc committee members may be appointed by the board. The board may request input from individuals or organizations, or it may seek volunteers to serve. Only the board or superintendent has the authority to appoint members to an ad hoc committee. Boards must follow the legal limitations or requirements regarding the membership of an ad hoc committee.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Reviewed: 2/14/2022
The board has jurisdiction to legislate policy for the school district with the force and effect of law. Board policy provides the general direction as to what the board wishes to accomplish and why it wishes to accomplish it while allowing the superintendent to implement board policy.
The written policy statements contained in this manual provide guidelines and goals to the citizens, administration, employees and students in the school district community. The policy statements are the basis for the formulation of regulations by the administration. The board will determine the effectiveness of the policy statements by evaluating periodic reports from the administration.
Policy statements may be proposed by a board member, administrator, employee, student or member of the school district community. Proposed policy statements or ideas will be submitted to the superintendent's office for possible placement on the board agenda. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to bring these proposals to the attention of the board.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 274.1-.2; 279.8 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).1970 Op. Att'y Gen. 287.
The board will give notice of adoption of new policies by placing the item on the agenda of two regular board meetings. This notice procedure will be required except for emergency situations. If the board adopts a policy in an emergency situation, a statement regarding the emergency and the need for immediate adoption of the policy will be included in the minutes. The board will have complete discretion to determine what constitutes an emergency situation.
The final action taken to adopt the proposed policy will be approved by a simple majority vote of the board at the next regular meeting after the meeting allowing public discussion. The policy will be effective on the later of the date of passage or the date stated in the motion.
In the case of an emergency, a new or changed policy may be adopted by a majority vote of a quorum of the board. The emergency policy will expire at the close of the third regular meeting following the emergency action, unless the policy adoption procedure stated above is followed and the policy is reaffirmed.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).
1970 Op. Att'y Gen. 287.
The board policy manual is available electronically. Persons unable to access the policy manual electronically should contact the District Office for assistance.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 277.31; 279.8 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).
Generally, the board will follow board policy and enforce it equitably. The board, and only the board, may, in extreme emergencies of a very unique nature, suspend policy. It is within the discretion of the board to determine when an extreme emergency of a very unique nature exists. Reasons for suspension of board policy will be documented in board minutes.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013). 281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).
When there is no board policy in existence to provide guidance on a matter, the superintendent is authorized to act appropriately under the circumstances surrounding the situation keeping in mind the educational philosophy and financial condition of the school district.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to inform the board of the situation and the action taken and to document the action taken. If needed, the superintendent will draft a proposed policy for the board to consider.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013). 281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).
The board shall, at least once every five years, review board policy. Once the policy has been reviewed, even if no changes were made, a notation of the date of review is made on the face of the policy statement.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to keep the board informed as to legal changes at both the federal and state levels. The superintendent will also be responsible for bringing proposed policy statement revisions to the board's attention.
If a policy is revised because of a legal change over which the board has no control or a change which is minor, the policy may be approved at one meeting at the discretion of the board.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.8 (2013). 281 I.A.C. 12.3(2).
Board policy sets the direction for the administration of the education program and school district operations. Some policies require administrative regulations for implementation.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations to implement the board policies. The regulations, including handbooks, will be reviewed by the board prior to their use in the school district.
The administrative regulations will be available no later than the first regular board meeting after the adoption of the board policy unless the board directs otherwise.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .20 (2013).
Each year after August 31 and prior to the organizational meeting of the board in odd-numbered years, the board will hold its annual meeting.
At the annual meeting, the board will examine the financial books and settle the secretary's and treasurer's statements for the fiscal year ending the preceding June 30. As part of the annual reports, the treasurer will present affidavits from depository banks. The board may also appoint the board's legal counsel at the annual meeting.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.1, .3, .33 (2013).
The regular meeting date and time shall be the 2nd Monday of the month at 5:30PM.
The board will adhere to this meeting date and time unless the board requires additional meetings or, due to circumstances beyond the board's control, the meeting cannot be held on the regular meeting date, and the meeting will be re-scheduled in accordance with law and policy. Public notice of the meetings will be given.
Date Board Adopted 9/10/2013
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21.3, .4; 279.1
It may be necessary for the board to conduct a special meeting in addition to the regularly scheduled board meeting. Special meetings may be called by the president of the board or by the board secretary at the request of a majority of the board. Should a special meeting be called, public notice will be given.
If the special meeting called is an emergency meeting and the board cannot give public notice in its usual manner, the board will give public notice of the meeting as soon as practical and possible in light of the situation. Emergency meetings will only be held when an issue cannot wait twenty-four hours necessary for a special meeting. The reason for the emergency meeting and why notice in its usual manner could not be given will be stated in the minutes.
Only the purpose or issue for which the special meeting was called may be discussed and decided in the special meeting. The board will strictly adhere to the agenda for the special meeting and action on other issues will be reserved for the next regular or special board meeting.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21.3, .4; 279.2 (2013). 1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 148.
The board, as a decision making body, is confronted with a continuing flow of problems, issues and needs which require action. While the board is determined to expedite its business, it is also mindful of the importance of planning, brainstorming and thoughtful discussion without action. Therefore, the board may schedule work sessions and retreats in order to provide its members and the administration with such opportunities. The board has the authority to hire an outside facilitator to assist them in work sessions.
Topics for discussion and study will be announced publicly, and work sessions and retreats will be conducted in open session. No board action will take place at the work session.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8 (2013).
1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 162.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 167.
1976 Op. Att'y Gen. 384, 514, 765.
1972 Op. Att'y Gen. 158. 1970 Op. Att'y Gen. 287.
Public notice will be given for meetings and work sessions held by the board. Public notice will indicate the time, place, date and tentative agenda of board meetings. The public notice will be posted on the bulletin board in the district administration office at least 2 days before it is scheduled, but, at the minimum, twenty-four hours notice needs to be given.
A copy of the public notice will be provided to those who have filed a request for notice with the secretary/treasurer. These requests for notice must be in writing. A copy of the public notice will also be accessible to employees and students.
In the case of special meetings, public notice will be given in the same manner as for a regular meeting unless it is an emergency meeting. In that case, public notice of the meeting will be given as soon as practical and possible in light of the situation. The media and others who have requested notice will be notified of the emergency meeting. Attendance at a special meeting or emergency meeting by the media or board members will constitute a waiver of notice.
It is the responsibility of the board secretary/treasurer to give public notice of board meetings and work sessions.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Dobrovolny v. Reinhardt, 173 N.W.2d 837 (Iowa 1970).
Iowa Code §§ 21.2-.4; 279.1, .2 (2013).
1952 Op. Att'y Gen. 133.
Action by the board regarding the affairs of the school district may be taken only when a quorum, a majority of the board members, is in attendance at the board meeting.
While board members are encouraged to attend board meetings, 3 members will constitute a quorum and are a sufficient number to transact business of the school corporation. The adjournment of a meeting may be executed without a quorum.
An affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast is sufficient to pass a motion or take action unless law or board policy requires a vote of a greater number.
It is the responsibility of each board member to attend board meetings.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21.5(1); 279.4 (2013).
An orderly board meeting allows the board members to participate in the discussion and decision process on an issue confronting the school district. Rules of order for board meetings allow school district business and the relative information concerning the business to be brought to the attention of the board. They also allow the board to discuss, act upon and make a clear record of school district business in a regular, ordered, reasonable and consistent manner.
The board will follow Robert's Rule of Order, Revised, latest edition as modified by this policy and subsequent rule.
The purpose of modified rules adopted by the board are:
It is the responsibility of each board member to follow the rules of order stated in this policy at each meeting, and it is the responsibility of the presiding officer to conduct the board meeting within these rules.
Date Board Adopted 9/16/2016
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21.2, .7; 279.8 (2013).
The tentative agenda for each board meeting will state the topics for discussion and action at the board meeting. The agenda is part of the public notice of the board meeting and will be posted and distributed.
Persons requesting to place an item on the agenda must make a request to the superintendent prior to the drafting of the tentative agenda. The person making the request must state the person's name, address, purpose of the presentation, action desired and pertinent background information. Requests from the public may be added to the tentative agenda at the discretion of the superintendent after consultation with the board president. Requests received after the deadline may only be added to the agenda for good cause.
The tentative agenda and supporting documents will be sent to the board members 4 days prior to the scheduled board meeting. These documents are the private property of the board member. Persons wishing to view the tentative agenda and supporting documents may do so at the district administration office.
The board will take action only on the items listed on the tentative agenda posted with the public notice. Items added to the agenda may be discussed or taken under advisement by the board. If an added item is acted upon, the minutes of the board meeting will state the reason justifying the immediate action.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the agenda for each board meeting.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8 (2013). 1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 269.
Very often the board must consider agenda items which are noncontroversial or similar in content. Such agenda items might include ministerial tasks such as, but not limited to, the approval of the agenda, approval of previous minutes, approval of bills, approval of reports, etc. These items might also include similar groups of decisions such as, but not limited to, approval of staff contracts, approval of maintenance details for the school buildings and grounds, open enrollment requests or approval of various schedules.
In order for a more efficient administration of board meetings, the board may elect to use a consent agenda for the passage of noncontroversial items or items of a similar nature.
The superintendent in consultation with the board president and board secretary/treasurer shall place items on the consent agenda. By using a consent agenda, the board has consented to the consideration of certain items as a group under one resolution. Items may be removed from the consent agenda at the request of a board member.
Nothing in this policy is to be construed as an attempt to avoid full compliance with laws dealing with open meetings or public notice of the agenda and meeting.
Date Board Adopted 9/25/2017
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21; 279.8 (2013).
A gathering of a majority of board members in which deliberation of an issue within the jurisdiction of the board takes place is a board meeting. A gathering for the purpose of social or ministerial action will not constitute a board meeting unless a discussion of policy takes place. Meetings of the board will be conducted in an open meeting unless a closed session is authorized by law or the meeting is exempt from the open meetings law.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21, 279.1-.2 (2013).
1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 162. 1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 167.
Code No. 212
CLOSED SESSIONS
Generally, board meetings will be open meetings, unless a closed session or exempt meeting is provided for by law. The board will hold a closed session or exempt meeting in the situations stated below.
Exceptions to the Open Meetings Law
Closed sessions take place as part of an open meeting. The board may enter into closed session for any reason permitted by law.
The item for discussion in the closed session will be listed as part of the tentative agenda on the public notice with the full text of the Iowa Code citation reference stated on the agenda. The motion for a closed session, stating the purpose for the closed session, will be made and seconded during the open meeting. A minimum of two-thirds of the board, or all of the board members present if any are absent, must vote in favor of the motion on a roll call vote. Closed sessions will be tape recorded and have detailed minutes kept by the board secretary. No voting will take place in the closed session. Final action on matters discussed in the closed session will be taken in an open meeting.
The minutes and the tape recording will restate the motion made in the open meeting, the roll call vote, the members present, and the time the closed session began and ended. The tape recordings and the written minutes will be kept for one year from the date of the meeting. Real estate related minutes and tapes recordings will be made public after the real estate transaction is completed.
The detailed minutes and tape recording will be sealed and will not be public records open to public inspection. The minutes and taperecording will only be available to board members or opened upon court or administrative order in an action to enforce the requirements of the open meetings law. The board has complete discretion as to whom may be present at a closed session, but generally closed sessions will be limited to the board, a recording secretary and the superintendent if indicated. The board has discretion to nominate the board secretary or any board member to serve as recording secretary for the closed session.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 20.17; 21; 22.7; 279.15, .16, .24.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Code No. 212.1
EXEMPT MEETINGS
Board meetings at which a quorum is not present, or gatherings of the board for purely ministerial or social purposes when there is no discussion of policy or no intent to avoid the purposes of the open meetings law, are exempt from the open meetings law requirements. Since gatherings of this type are exempt from the open meetings requirements, they can be held without public notice, be separate from an open meeting, be held without recording the gathering or taking minutes, and be held without a vote or motion. The board may also hold an exempt session for the following reasons, or as may be otherwise authorized by law:
1. Negotiating sessions, strategy meetings of public employers or employee organizations, mediation and the deliberative process of arbitration;
2. to discuss strategy in matters relating to employment conditions of employees not covered by the collective bargaining law;
3. to conduct a private hearing relating to the recommended termination of a teacher's contract. The private hearing however, in the teacher's contract termination will be recorded verbatim by a court reporter; and
4. to conduct a private hearing relating to the termination of a probationary administrator's contract or to review the proposed decision of the administrative law judge regarding the termination of an administrator's contract.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 20.17; 21; 22.7; 279.15, .16.
Date Board Adopted 12/13/2021
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
The board desires citizens of the district to attend its sessions so that they may become better acquainted with the operation and programs of the schools and that the board may have opportunity to hear the wishes and ideas of the public. All official meetings of the board shall be open to the press and public. Board meetings are conducted for the purpose of carrying on the business of the schools and, therefore, are not public meetings, but meetings held in public.
In order to assure that persons who wish to appear before the board may be heard and, at the same time, conduct its meetings properly and efficiently, the board adopts as policy the following procedures and rules pertaining to public participation at board meetings.
l. Anyone wishing to speak before the board, either as an individual or as a member of a group, should inform the superintendent of the desire to do so and of the topic to be discussed as early as possible, but at least five days before the meeting. This will permit orderly scheduling of public remarks on the meeting.
2. Any individual desiring to speak shall give his or her name, address, and the group, if any, that is represented.
3. The presentation should be as brief as possible. Unless an extension of time is granted a speaker shall be limited to five minutes.
4. Speakers may offer such objective criticisms of school operations and programs as concern them. But in public session, the board will not hear personal complaints of school personnel nor against any person connected with the school system. Other channels provide for board consideration and disposition of legitimate complaints involving individuals.
The board vests in its president or the presiding officer authority to terminate the remarks of any individual when they do not adhere to the rules established above. The board president may waive the five day requirement, in the interest of open communication, if there are no objections from other board members.
Petitions to Place a Topic on the Agenda
Individuals who wish for an item to be placed on the board agenda may submit a valid petition to the board. For a petition to be valid, it must be signed by at least 500 eligible electors of the district, or ten percent of the individuals who voted in the last school election, whichever number is lower.
Upon receiving a valid petition to the board to place a proposal on the next board agenda for public hearing, the board will place the proposal identified in the petition on the agenda of the next regular meeting, or a special meeting held within 30 days of receipt of the petition. The board will provide a sign-up sheet for all individuals who wish to speak on the proposal, and individuals will be called to speak in order of sign-up. The sign-up sheet will require each individual to list their legal name and mailing address. Each speaker will be limited to an amount of time established by the board president that is reasonable and necessary based on the number of speakers signed up. The same time limit will apply to all speakers on the proposal. Each individual will be limited to one opportunity to speak. The board maintains absolute discretion on whether or not to discuss or act on the public comments made on the proposal. If a petition is related to curriculum, the district maintains discretion to determine whether to stop teaching that curriculum until the board holds the public hearing to discuss the curriculum.
Persons appearing before the board are reminded, as a point of information, that members of the board are without authority to act independently as individuals in official matters. Thus, questions may be directed to individual board members, but answers must be deferred pending consideration by the full board.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21; 22; 279.8, 279.8B
A. Complaints By or About Personnel
Communications and complaints from personnel shall first be brought to the attention of the superintendent of schools before being brought before the board of directors.
Personnel desiring to address the board on any matter shall direct their communication to the superintendent of schools, and not to the individual members of the board (except that copies of any communication to the superintendent may be sent to all members.)
Complaints against any employee which arise from within the membership of the board, or which come to the attention of the board, except through the superintendent, shall be referred to the superintendent of schools for investigation and action.
In case either the employee or the complainant is not satisfied with the action of the superintendent, appeal may be taken to the board. No anonymous complaint shall be considered by the board in any manner.
Any complaint procedure adopted by the board for classified or certified employees will not apply to an issue that is covered by definition of a grievance in the master contract.
B. Citizens' Complaints
Whenever a citizen has a complaint about the action of any employee, such citizen should first address the concern to the employee. If satisfaction is not reached, the citizen may give information to the employee's immediate supervisor. If the matter is not resolved, the appeal process will follow this order.
1. Other supervisory or administrative personnel in the line of responsibility;
2. The superintendent of schools;
3. The board of directors.
The board of directors shall strongly encourage citizens to follow this chain of appeal.
No appeals will be heard by the board of directors, and no charges against the employees will be investigated or acted upon by the board, unless they are reduced to writing, signed by the party bringing them, and presented to the board through the superintendent of schools.
Parents, guardians and community members of the district who have concerns about the district or the board may refer to the student handbook for additional guidance from the Iowa Department of Education.
Date Board Adopted 9/25/2017
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Public hearings may be held on school district matters at the discretion of the board. Public notice of a public hearing will be in the same manner as for a board meeting except that the notice will be given at least ten days before the hearing is to be held unless it is impossible or impractical to do so, or the law requires otherwise.
At public hearings, citizens of the district who register at the door will be allowed to speak on the issue for which the public hearing is being held. Others may be allowed to speak at the board's discretion. Speakers are asked to keep their remarks as brief as possible. Prior to the beginning of the hearing, speakers and spectators will be apprised of the rules of order to be followed regarding time limitations, questions, remarks and rebuttals. In no event will a speaker be allowed to take the time of another speaker.
The board will conduct public hearings in an orderly fashion. At the beginning of the hearing, statements, background materials and public hearing rules and procedures will be presented by the board president. The board president will recognize the speakers. A board member may ask questions of the speakers after receiving permission from the board president. Only those speakers recognized by the chair will be allowed to speak. Comments by others are out of order. Individuals who interfere with or interrupt speakers, the board or the proceedings will be asked to leave.
Date Board Adopted 10/24/2017
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ Ch. 21; 26.12; Ch. 24; 279.8, .10; 297.22 (2013).
The board will keep and maintain permanent records of the board including, but not limited to, records of the minutes of board meetings and other required records of the board.
It is the responsibility of the board secretary to keep the minutes of the board meetings. The minutes of each board meeting will include, at a minimum, the following items: a record of the date, time, place, members present, action taken and the vote of each member, and the schedule of bills allowed will be attached. This information will be available within two weeks of the board meeting and forwarded to the newspaper designated as the official newspaper for publication. The information does not need to be published within two weeks. The schedule of bills allowed may be published on a once monthly basis in lieu of publication with the minutes. The permanent records of the board minutes may include more detail than is required for the publication of the minutes.
Minutes waiting approval at the next board meeting will be available for inspection at the central administration office after the board secretary transcribes the notes into typewritten material which has been proofread for errors and retyped.
Date Board Adopted 9/27/2010
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 21; 22; 279.8, .35, .36; 291.6, .7; 618.3 (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(1).
1982 Op. Att'y Gen. 215.
1974 Op. Att'y Gen. 403.1952 Op. Att'y Gen. 133.
Participation in professional associations may be beneficial to the board. The board may maintain membership(s) in organizations the board determines will be of benefit to the board and the school district.
Date Board Adopted 9/25/2017
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 279.38 (2013).
The board may participate in conferences sponsored by educational associations and agencies in addition to its own in-service programs and work sessions.
Date Board Adopted 9/25/2017
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .38 (2013).
As an elected public official, the board member is a public servant who serves without compensation. Board members will be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.
Prior to reimbursement of actual and necessary expenses, the board member must submit a detailed receipt indicating the date, purpose and nature of the expense for each claim item. Failure to provide a detailed receipt will make the expense nonreimbursable. Personal expenses will be reimbursed by the board member to the school district no later than ten working days following the date of the expense. In exceptional circumstances, the board may allow a claim without proper receipt. Written documentation explaining the exceptional circumstances will be maintained as part of the school district's record of the claim.
It is the responsibility of the board secretary/treasurer to compile the expenses of board members and bring them to the board for audit and approval in the same manner as other claims of the school district. It is the responsibility of the board to determine through the audit and approval process of the board whether the expenses incurred by a board member are actual and necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties.
Date Board Adopted 9/25/2017
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 68B; 277.27; 279.7A, .8, .32 (2013).
Board members may receive a gift on behalf of the school district. Board members will not, either directly or indirectly, solicit, accept or receive a gift, series of gifts or an honorarium unless the donor does not meet the definition of "restricted donor" stated below or the gift or honorarium does not meet the definition of gift or honorarium stated below.
A "restricted donor" is defined as a person or other entity which:
An "honorarium" is anything of value that is accepted by, or on behalf of, a board member as consideration for an appearance, speech or article. An honorarium does not include any of the following:
It is the responsibility of each board member to know when it is appropriate to accept or reject gifts or honorariums.
Date Board Adopted 9/25/2017
Date Board Updated and/or Reviewed 2/14/2022
Legal References: Iowa Code ch. 68B (2013).
1972 Op. Att'y Gen. 276. 1970 Op. Att'y Gen. 319.