I - Instructional Program

IA 

Philosophy 

The district is committed to implementing standards-based education philosophy through a planned, effective  approach involving students, staff, parents and community. 

Both academic and non-academic programs comprise the educational program.  

The educational program shall be performance-oriented and research-based. 

All students shall have an equal opportunity to pursue and acquire knowledge and to master the educational  program’s objectives. 

Policy Reference: GBU

Policy Reference: IKB

Adoption Date: 12/8/2003, Revised: 6/8/2009 

 

IB

School Site Councils

(See KA)

A site council shall be established in each district building. Each council shall be responsible for providing advice and counsel for evaluating state, school district, and school site performance goals and objectives and in recommending methods that may be employed at the school site to meet these goals and objectives. Discussions may include allocations of the school budget and administrative and management functions.

The membership of each council shall include, at a minimum, the building principal, and representatives of: teachers and other school personnel, parents of pupils attending the school, the business community, and community leaders.

The principal shall recommend site council members for superintendent approval.

Each site council shall establish meeting schedules. Each council may make recommendations and proposals to the board.

Approved: KASB Recommendation–7/96; 6/04; 4/07; 6/14; 6/22; 6/25

 

IC 

Educational Program 

The academic program shall assist students to grow intellectually, to master the curriculum objectives, and to prepare for further education or training. The board shall consider the district's basic educational program each year. And, when approved, the program shall constitute the district's basic curriculum. 

Curricular Offerings 

An outline of each curricular offering and the learning objectives to be mastered shall be developed. When approved by the board, they shall become a part of these policies and rules by reference. 

Educational Goals and Objectives 

District educational goals and curriculum objectives for the basic educational program shall be on file in the district office, and available for inspection upon request. 

Additional Educational Programs 

Additional educational programs shall be in one of the following categories: 

• Special Programs (IDAA), Support Programs (IDAB) and Exceptional Programs (IDAC).

Policy Reference: ID, IDAA, IDAB, IDAC and IJ

Adoption Date: 12/08/2003, Revised: 06/08/2009; 08/10/2020

©KASB. This material may be reproduced for use in USD 443. It may not be reproduced, either in whole or in part, in any form whatsoever, to be given, sold or  transmitted to any person or entity including but not limited to another school district, organization, company or corporation without written permission from KASB. 

 

ICA
Pilot Projects
(See IDAE)

The board supports the use of pilot projects before any new instructional technique is implemented on a district-wide basis.

Pilot project means any research or experimentation program or project designed to explore or develop new, unproven teaching methods or techniques. All instructional materials, including teachers’ manuals, audio/visual materials or any other supplementary instructional material to be used in connection with a pilot project shall be available for inspection by parents or guardians of students engaged in the program or project.

Pilot Project Evaluation
Before any pilot project proposal is submitted to the board for approval, an evaluation format shall be developed and included with the pilot project.

Student Surveys
As required by the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), any instrument designed to survey students, either by district staff or by an outside agency or individual, shall be made available for inspection by parents or guardians before the survey is administered. Further, pursuant to the Kansas Student Data Privacy Act (SDPA), no nonacademic test, questionnaire, survey, or examination containing any questions about the personal and private attitudes, values, beliefs, or practices of the student or the student’s parents, guardians, family members, associates, friends, or peers that is administered during the school day shall be administered to any kindergarten through 12th grade students unless the requirements outlined in policy IDAE are followed.

Approved: KASB Recommendation – 7/03; 6/04; 4/07; 6/14; 12/24

 

ICAA 

Teaching Methods 

Use of current research findings to improve instruction is required as a part of the district's school improvement efforts. The teaching staff is required to keep abreast of current research-based teaching  methods. 

Policy Reference: CA

Policy References: IDAE, II and IJ

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009

ID 

Instructional Program 

All licensed staff shall cooperatively develop an integrated, comprehensive, performance-oriented preK-12 Instructional Program, which will be composed of the specific courses and programs offered that allow students to meet the goals and objectives set forth in the educational program. The instructional program is to  include district instructional goals and learning objectives and be based on valid educational research and  current Kansas State Board of Education requirements.  

After board of education approval, district instructional goals and learning objectives shall be used by the staff as the basis for developing and implementing specific curricula. The superintendent may develop a schedule for periodic curriculum reviews. 

Modification 

Additions, deletions, or alterations to the Instructional Program shall be approved by the board. 

Personnel 

Outside resources and district personnel may be used in curriculum development. 

Financial Resources 

The board encourages the superintendent to secure federal, state and private grants, or other alternative funding sources for use in curriculum development. The licensed staff is encouraged to use available commercial, public domain and community resources to assist in developing the instructional program and  extending it beyond the traditional classroom setting. 

Policy References: CJ and CL

Policy References: IC and IJ

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009; Revised: 06/24/2024

 

IDA 

Basic Program 

The academic program shall assist students to grow intellectually, to master the curriculum objectives, and to prepare for further education or training. The board shall consider the district's basic educational program each year. And, when approved, the program shall constitute the district's basic curriculum. 

Curriculum Handbooks 

Curriculum handbooks shall contain an outline of each basic course and the learning objectives to be mastered. Each handbook, when approved by the board, shall become a part of these policies and rules by  reference. 

Educational Goals and Objectives 

District educational goals and curriculum objectives for the basic educational program shall be on file in the district office, and available for inspection upon request. 

Other Educational Programs 

Other educational programs provided by the district shall be in one of the following categories: 

• Special Programs,  
• Support Programs, and  
• Exceptional Programs. 

Work-Study Programs 

Participation by students in work-study programs will be approved through the Curriculum Design Process with guidelines established through this process. 

Athletic and Activities Director 

The superintendent or designated representative shall develop qualifications and duties for positions at the  high school and middle school to be entitled as "athletic/activity director." Responsibility of the director shall  include but not be limited to the following: organizing, planning, coordinating, administering all co-curricular and interscholastic athletics; arranging for transportation for all teams; participating in league meetings;  preparing athletic/activity budgets; preparing contracts with game officials and evaluating on an annual basis  all district athletic/activity programs, coaches and sponsors; and insuring compliance with KSHSAA regulations. 

Policy References: ID, IDAA, IDAB, IDAC and IJ

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

IDAA 

Special Programs 

In addition to the educational program, the district shall provide programs to meet special needs. These programs shall be outlined in the appropriate handbooks or other documents following board review and approval.  

Partnerships/Work-Study Program 

The board may approve partnership/work-study programs with business and/or educational institutions for the  purpose of improving and/or expanding the quality of curricular offerings, and may approve opportunities for  partnership organizations to assist with specified programs. 

A periodic review of the partnership's goals and objectives shall be conducted.

Policy Reference: AEB

Policy Reference: IC

Policy Reference: JJ

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009, Revised: 06/28/2021

©KASB. This material may be reproduced for use in USD 443. It may not be reproduced, either in whole or in part, in any form whatsoever, to be given, sold or  transmitted to any person or entity including but not limited to another school district, organization, company or corporation without written permission from KASB. 

 

IDAB 

Support Programs 

Support program information approved by the board shall be filed with the clerk and made available to staff as needed. 

Drug Education 

All students shall be made aware of the legal, social and health consequences of drug and alcohol use. Students shall be instructed on effective techniques for resisting peer pressure to use illicit drugs or alcohol.  

Students shall be informed that the use of illicit drugs and the unlawful possession and use of alcohol is both wrong and harmful. 

The board's comprehensive drug and alcohol abuse and prevention program shall be included as part of the district's curriculum. The curriculum at each grade level shall be age-appropriate and developmentally based. 

A student who voluntarily seeks assistance, advice or counseling from school personnel regarding drugs or drug abuse shall not be disciplined by school authorities because the student sought assistance. 

Student Mental Health 

The superintendent may develop and implement a student mental health awareness program.  The superintendent shall identify community or area mental health agencies able to provide assistance. 

Dropout Prevention 

The superintendent may develop and implement programs to prevent students from dropping out of school or to encourage dropouts to return to school. 

The staff shall incorporate the philosophy and goals of this policy into the schools' programs. 

At-Risk Students 

The superintendent shall be responsible for developing a program for identifying and working with at-risk students. 

Guidance 

The guidance program shall be organized to serve all students. 

Counselor(s) shall provide guidance services consistent with district philosophy, job descriptions and board policies. 

Homebound Instruction 

Homebound instruction may be provided to a student as deemed necessary by the superintendent or by the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) team or Section 504 team.  

Policy Reference: IC

Policy Reference: LDD

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009, Revised: 01/09/2023 

 

IDAC 

Exceptional Programs 

In addition to the basic programs approved by the board, the district shall provide programs to meet exceptional needs. Program information, approved by the board, shall be filed with the clerk and made  available to staff as needed.  

“Exceptional”, by definition, includes but is not limited to Gifted Education, as well as other advanced programs such as Honors classes, Advanced Placement classes, Concurrent Enrollment programs, etc. 

Policy Reference: IC and IDA

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009

IDACA  

Special Education Services 

In accordance with the provisions of Federal and state law, it is the policy of this district to provide a free appropriate public education for every exceptional child. Special education services are provided for such children, including individual educational programs offered in the least restrictive environment. 

Child Find, Identification, and Eligibility 

The district shall coordinate and maintain a system which schedules and structures available services for pupils who are referred to determine eligibility for special education services in accordance with procedural processes established in Federal and state law. 

Actions and Due Process for Students 

Parental involvement and cooperation is important to the success of these educational programs. In order to encourage the involvement and cooperation of parents in special education services and to safeguard the rights  of exceptional children to a free appropriate public education, the board utilizes and refers parents to the “Procedural Safeguards in Parent Rights in Special Education” published by the Kansas State Department of  Education.  

In the provision of special education and related services, the district will implement all Federal and Kansas statutes, rules, and regulations. 

Adoption Date: 08/11/2014, Revised: 07/09/2018; 12/24

 

IDACB 

Section 504 Accommodations for Students 

In accordance with the provisions of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans with  Disabilities Act, the district is committed to providing students with disabilities the opportunity to participate in and benefit from its programs and activities. Accordingly, the district will make reasonable modifications to  its programs and activities to accommodate otherwise qualified students with disabilities, unless such modifications would impose an undue burden on the operation of the particular program or activity or would  fundamentally alter the nature or purpose of the program or activity.  

No district board member, employee, or contractor shall retaliate against any person because of his or her  exercise of rights under Section 504. 

Adoption Date: 08/11/2014

IDAE 

Student Privacy Policy  

The superintendent, the board and staff shall protect the right of privacy of students and their families in  connection with any surveys or physical examinations conducted, assisted, or authorized by the board or  administration. The district shall annually provide parents notice of their rights under the Protection of Pupil  Rights Amendment and the Student Data Privacy Act, at the beginning of each school year, and at any other  time the school district policies in the area are substantially changed.  

Student Data Restrictions 

Any student data submitted to and maintained by a statewide longitudinal student data system shall only be  disclosed in accordance with the Student Data Privacy Act. Disclosure of all other student data or student record  information maintained is governed by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”). 

Annual written notice presented to parents and legal guardians of district students shall: 1) require parent or guardian’s signature; and 2) shall state student data submitted to and maintained by a statewide longitudinal  data system only be disclosed as follows. 

Student data may be disclosed to: 

• The authorized personnel of an educational agency or the state board of regents who require disclosures to perform assigned duties; and 
• The student and the parent or legal guardian of the student provided the data pertains solely to the  student. 

Student data may be disclosed to authorized personnel of any state agency, or to a service provider of a state  agency, educational agency, or school performing instruction, assessment, or longitudinal reporting, provided a  data-sharing agreement between the educational agency and other state agency or service provider provides  the following: 

• purpose, scope, and duration of the data-sharing agreement; 
• recipient of student data use such information solely for the purposes specified in agreement; 
• recipient shall comply with data access, use, and security restrictions specifically described in agreement; and 
• student data shall be destroyed when no longer necessary for purposes of the data-sharing  agreement or upon expiration of the agreement, whichever occurs first.  

*A service provider engaged to perform a function of instruction may be allowed to retain student transcripts  as required by applicable laws and rules and regulations. Destruction shall comply with the NISTSP800-88  standards of data destruction. 

Unless an adult student or parent or guardian of a minor student provides written consent to disclose personally  identifiable student data, student data may only be disclosed to a governmental entity not specified above or  any public or private audit and evaluation or research organization if the data is aggregate data. “Aggregate  data” means data collected or reported at the group, cohort, or institutional level and which contains no  personally identifiable student data. 

The district may disclose: 

• Student directory information when necessary and the student’s parent or legal guardian has  consented in writing;  
• directory information to an enhancement vendor providing photography services, class ring services,  yearbook publishing services, memorabilia services, or similar services; 
• any information requiring disclosure pursuant to state statutes; 
• student data pursuant to any lawful subpoena or court order directing such disclosure; and
• student data to a public or private postsecondary educational institution for purposes of  application or admission of a student to such postsecondary educational institution with the  student’s written consent. 

Student Data Security Breach 

If there is a security breach or unauthorized disclosure of student data or personally identifiable information of  any student submitted to or maintained on a statewide student longitudinal data system, each affected student  or the parent or legal guardian of the student, if a minor, shall be immediately notified, and an investigation into  the causes and consequences of the breach or unauthorized disclosure will be conducted. 

Biometric Data 

The district shall not collect biometric data from a student or use any device or mechanism to assess a student’s  physiological or emotional state, unless the adult student or the parent or legal guardian of the minor student  consents in writing. “Biometric data” includes measurable biological or behavioral characteristics that can be  used for automated recognition of an individual, such as fingerprints, retina and iris patterns, voiceprints, DNA  sequence, facial characteristics, and handwriting. 

Nothing in this policy shall prohibit the collection of audio voice recordings, facial expression information, and  student handwriting for:  

• provision of counseling or psychological services,  
• conducting student threat assessments, 
• completing student disciplinary investigations or hearings, or  
• conducting child abuse investigations.  

Select Student Surveys 

No nonacademic test, questionnaire, survey, or examination containing any questions about the personal and private attitudes, values, beliefs, or practices of the student or the student’s parents, guardians, family  members, associates, friends, or peers that is administered during the school day shall be administered to any  kindergarten through 12^th grade student unless: 

• the parent or guardian is notified in writing not more than four months in advance of the administration of such test, questionnaire, survey, or examination that such is to be administered;  and  
• the parent or guardian of the student gives consent through a written or electronic signature or, in the event of an immediate need, gives verbal consent for the student to participate.  

Advance notification to a parent or guardian must include:  

• A copy of the test, questionnaire, survey, or examination that is to be administered; 
• Information on how the parent or guardian may provide written consent to authorize the student to take such test, questionnaire, survey, or examination; 
• The name of the company or entity that produces or provides the test, questionnaire, survey, or examination to the school; and  
• Whether the school will receive or maintain the resulting data and an explanation of how the school intends to use and maintain such data. 

For written consent to be accepted, timely notice in compliance with the requirements of this policy must be provided, and the parent or guardian must have had an opportunity to review the information contained in the  notice. Written consent must be provided separately for each individual test, questionnaire, survey, or examination that is to be administered. Prior to administering any such test, questionnaire, survey, or  examination, a copy of it must be posted and maintained on the district’s website. 

A student has the right to refuse to take any test, questionnaire, survey, or examination as described herein at any time, regardless of receipt of parent or guardian consent to participate. Prior to administering any such  test, questionnaire, survey, or examination, each student shall be informed that such student has the right to refuse to take it and that the student will not suffer any adverse consequences based on refusal to participate.  

No personally identifiable student data shall be collected through any such test, questionnaire, survey, or  examination.  

Except as otherwise provided in this policy, the provisions of this subsection shall apply to any test,  questionnaire, survey, or examination as described herein that is administered or proposed to be administered  to any student by any employee of a school district, including, but not limited to, any administrator, teacher, counselor, social worker, psychologist, or nurse.  

If, however, any district employee becomes aware that a student may be at risk of suicide by a credible report  from the student, the student's peers, or another school district employee, the school personnel who are  designated to administer a suicide risk assessment or screening tool may administer such risk assessment or  screening tool in accordance with the provisions of this subsection to determine whether the student could be  at risk for suicide. Such designated school personnel may include, but is not limited to, any administrator,  teacher, counselor, social worker, psychologist, or nurse. Prior to the administration of any such risk assessment  or screening tool, the designated staff member shall verbally notify the parent or guardian before the administration of such risk assessment or screening tool and obtain the consent of the parent or guardian.  

If the designated staff member is unable to verbally notify the parent or guardian of the student and obtain  consent after reasonable attempts to do so, the designated staff member may administer the risk assessment  or screening tool without such consent. If a risk assessment or screening tool is administered without the parent  or guardian's consent, as soon as contact with the parent or guardian is made, the designated staff member  shall notify the parent or guardian of the administration of such assessment or screening tool and provide to  the parent or guardian all information obtained from the risk assessment or screening tool administered to the student. 

Policy Reference: BCBK

Policy Reference: ICA, ICAA and II

Policy Reference: JR et seq.

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009, Revised: 08/11/2014; 08/08/2016; 07/11/2022

Form: Annual Notice of Authorized Student Data Disclosures

 

IDCE 

College Classes 

With parental permission, eligible students who can complete graduation requirements as prescribed by the board are eligible to be released from school during the regular school day to attend classes at a Regent's university, community college, technical college, vocational educational school or Washburn University. 

Concurrent Enrollment 

A student enrolled in grades 11 or 12, or a gifted child in grades 9 through 12 who has demonstrated the ability to benefit from participation in the regular curricula of eligible postsecondary education institutions, may apply to the principal for permission to enroll at an eligible postsecondary education institution. 

The district may enter into an agreement with the college for the purpose of allowing these students to receive dual credit. 

Policy Reference: JBE and JQ

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009

 

IDFA 

Athletics 

Any district elementary or middle school that includes any of the grades six through nine may conduct athletic  practice during the school day only at times when one or more elective academic courses or a study period is  offered to students. 

District high school/s shall not conduct athletic practice during the school day, and practice shall not be  counted for credit or as a part of the school term. 

District schools shall neither offer credit for athletic practice nor count athletic practice as a physical education  course. 

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009

 

IE  

Instructional Arrangements  

Each building principal shall organize the instructional program in a manner compatible with these policies.  

Class Size 

Class size shall be determined by: class enrollment, teacher availability, budget and facility limitations.  

Recommended class sizes in the district will be determined by grade level/class enrollment, teacher availability,  budget limitations and facility utilization and shall not be subject to negotiations. Any annual adjustments to the recommended class size for any grade level or building will be at the discretion of the Superintendent. 

Following are the class sizes for grades K-5: 

Grade Level	Recommended Class Size
K-1	20
2-5	22

Classroom Size 
All K-5 classrooms in the district that are approximately 750 sq. ft. (gross) or less will be designated as small  classrooms, with a maximum class size not to exceed the recommended class sizes above. A list of district  classrooms with their assigned designation will be maintained by the Executive Director of Business and Operations.  

Assignment of K-5 Students 
K-5 students will be assigned through a registration and enrollment process (cf. Policy JBC) until all buildings  attain the Recommended Class Size, above. At that point, additional students will be assigned one-by-one  through the school district’s enrollment process (cf. Policy JBC), with an effort to maintain a balance among  class sizes within grade levels across the district.  

In determining class size, all students receiving instruction in the regular classroom one or more periods daily  will be counted as one student, including special education students and English-as-a-Second-Language  students. Each Emotionally Disturbed (ED) student will be counted as two students if he/she receives instruction for one or more periods a day in the regular classroom. Otherwise, he/she will be counted as one student.  Severely Mentally Handicapped and Trainable Mentally Handicapped students will not be counted, as their time  spent in the regular classroom is limited or strictly supervised by special education staff.  

Situations Requiring Re-Assignment of K-5 Students  
The Enrollment and/or Appeal of Assignment Process will be used in situations requiring reassignment of  students to other buildings.  

• Non-resident students will be considered first for reassignment to another school within the district,  through the enrollment/appeal process.  
• Voluntary transfers considered next: Those who voluntarily complete an Appeal form.  
• Generally, students without brothers and sisters in the building will be reassigned through a forced  selection process before those with siblings.  
• Reassigned students may specifically request to be placed on established waiting lists (cf. JBC).  

Scheduling for Instruction 
Class schedules shall be developed to meet district instructional goals and learning objectives. 

Pre-enrollment 
The administration shall develop and coordinate pre-enrollment activities each spring.  

Scheduling for Instruction 
A registration and lottery for students who will be in grades K-5 for the subsequent school year will be conducted in the spring prior to the district-wide enrollment date(s).  

In the spring of each year, pre-enrollment activities will be scheduled for students entering grades 6-11. The  administrative team will develop and coordinate pre-enrollment activities each year in such a manner as not to disrupt the education process of any student for prolonged periods of time.  

Student Schedules 
The building principal and counselor will make every attempt to schedule students in the classes offered in the  master schedule and desired by the students.  

Independent Study for High School 
A faculty committee shall develop guidelines that outline the framework of an independent study program, and develop criteria to be used in the selection of students to participate in an independent study programs.  

All independent study programs will then be submitted to the Curriculum Design Process for approval.  

Adoption Date: 07/12/1993, Revised: 05/13/1996; 04/28/2003, 06/08/2009: 04/22/2024

IEB 

Charter Schools 

The board may consider a petition for creation of a charter school if the petition meets all requirements of current law and regulations. 

Adoption Date: 06/10/1996, Revised: 06/08/2009

 

IF 

Textbooks, Instructional Materials and Media Centers 

All textbooks, instructional materials and the selection criteria for district media center materials shall be subject to board approval. 

Textbooks and instructional materials shall support the district’s instructional program. Media center materials shall support and supplement the curriculum, promote wise use of leisure time, develop literary discrimination and appreciation, and encourage students to become productive citizens. 

Selection Criteria: Textbooks and Instructional Materials 

Textbooks and instructional materials shall provide: 

• An effective education for all students; 
• factual knowledge, literary appreciation, aesthetic values, and ethical standards; 
• practice for students to develop abilities in critical thinking, communication, mathematics, and science skill; 
• information which helps students develop an appreciation of American cultural, ethnic and racial diversity, and balanced views concerning international, national, state, and local issues and problems; and 
• sufficient flexibility for meeting the special needs of individuals and groups. 

The superintendent shall develop selection procedures which meet the above criteria, which shall include a review of available material by appropriate staff members. 

Selection Criteria: Media Center Materials 

• Materials shall be chosen for accuracy, artistic quality, format, and authoritativeness. 
• Materials shall be chosen on various reading levels presenting different points of view, including  current issues. 

Books and other media materials shall be evaluated before purchase, either through direct examination or by using reputable, unbiased, professionally prepared selection tools. 

The media center(s) shall obtain, process, and circulate materials and equipment and provide references and other services to students and faculty. Media specialists shall work toward providing resources so that students have an opportunity to achieve high levels of performance. 

Collection Development 

The media collection shall be developed systematically, be well balanced in coverage of subjects, and include various types of materials and diverse content in multiple formats. 

The collection shall reflect, enhance, and complement the broad interests represented in the curriculum. The collection should be large enough to allow materials to be placed in classrooms for extended periods of time.

Challenges of Materials 

Any student, parent, or legal guardian of a student currently enrolled in the district having a complaint about textbooks, media center, or other instructional materials shall meet with the teacher, media specialist, or principal. If the concern is addressed to a teacher or media specialist, they shall report the matter to the  principal. If the matter cannot be resolved, the principal shall notify the superintendent and ask the complainant to complete a request for review form which is available through building principals or at the district office.  After receiving the completed form, the superintendent shall review and consider the request. 

If the issue outlined in the request is not resolved after review by the superintendent, the requestor may seek review by the board.  

In determining whether to forward a challenge to a review committee, the board shall consider the following factors: 

• The basis of the challenge; 
• whether the material has been previously challenged and reviewed pursuant to this process; and 
• whether it is necessary to submit it for additional review. 

If the board chooses not to submit the challenge to the review committee, the superintendent will notify the requestor of the board’s decision. If the board chooses to submit the challenge to a review committee, it shall forward all appropriate written materials necessary to the review committee. 

Composition of Review Committee 

When a review committee is established to handle requests for review concerning textbooks, media center, or instructional materials, the review committee shall be composed of: 

The building principal, library media specialist, two subject area specialists, two community members, and one student. If the request for review proposes that the material is inappropriate for minors, the student  representative may be left off the committee. The superintendent shall be responsible for appointing review committee members, unless otherwise determined by the board on a case-by-case basis. 

Purview of Review Committee 

The review committee shall examine and evaluate the material as a whole; consider the district’s policy,  procedures, and philosophy for selection of textbook, instruction materials, and media center materials; weigh  strengths and weaknesses; and form opinions based upon the selection criteria. 

Written Report 

Within 30 days of receiving access to the challenged materials, the review committee shall review the material  and prepare a written report containing conclusions and recommendations for the board of education. 

If the board receives simultaneous challenges of multiple material or if circumstances render the 30-day timeline  impracticable, the board may extend the committee’s deadline to complete its review. 

No reviews will be conducted during summer break or when school is not in session for one week or longer. The  timeline for any review shall be tolled during such breaks.

Board Review and Action 

The board shall review the recommendation of the review committee within 30 days of receipt thereof and may  accept the review committee’s recommendation, reject the review committee’s recommendation, or make its  own determination regarding the challenged book or material. 

The decision of the board is final. 

Removing Challenged Materials 

Challenged materials may be removed from use during the review period at the discretion of the  superintendent. 

Impact of Simultaneous or Repeated Requests 

If more than one request for review is received simultaneously, or, if one or more requests for review is received  while another review is pending, timelines established in this policy may be extended by the superintendent or  the board to allow the requests to be processed in turn. When more than one request for review is received  for the same book or material, such requests may be consolidated to reduce redundancy in review at any stage  of this process. 

If a book or material has been reviewed by a review committee, it will not be eligible for an additional review  for at least one year from the date the board took action on the previous challenge of the material. 

USD 443 REQUEST FOR REVIEW OF A TEXTBOOK, INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL, OR 

MEDIA CENTER MATERIAL – Board Policy IF 

Request initiated by ________________________________________________________________________________  Telephone_____________________ Address: ___________________________________________________________ Complainant represents: ____________________________________________________________________________ self; or if a group; name of group: _____________________________________________________________  

The material I object to is a: film__ recording __ magazine __ pamphlet __ textbook __ other __ Book  or other material Author (if known) __________________________________   _______________________________________________ Publisher (if known) ________________________________________________________________________________

1. Are you familiar with the district policy, procedure and philosophy regarding selection of  textbooks, instructional materials, and media center materials? _____ Y _____ N

2. Did you read or view all the material provided in the entire work? _____ Y _____ N                    

If no, how did you select the parts for reading or viewing? 

_____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________________ 

3. Please identify the objectionable material. (Please be specific; cite pages or items.)  ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________  

4. What is the basis for your objection to the specific sections or parts identified? _______________________________________________________________________________________

 _______________________________________________________________________________________  

5. What do you believe is the major theme of this material?  _____________________________________ _____________________________________________________ _________________________________ 

6. What would you recommend the school do with this material? 

______________________________________________________________________________________  ______________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________  

7. In its place, what material of equal educational quality would you  recommend? ___________________ 

_______________________________________________________________________________________ 

8. Additional comments:  __________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________ 

Administrator___________________________________________ 

Signature of complainant___________________________________________ 

Date received:_______________________________ 

Policy Reference: IKD

Policy Reference: KN

Adoption Date: 12/08/2003, Revised: 06/08/2009; 01/10/2022; 07/11/2022; 06/24/2024

 

IFA

Classroom Displays 

Materials displayed in and around a classroom are generally considered instructional materials and must comply with board policy. They may be selected by the classroom teacher but should be grade-level appropriate and align with the subject-matter being taught. Materials or displays not meeting these criteria are subject to removal by the principal. 

Classrooms are not public forums for the display or distribution of political, religious, or personal viewpoints. Employees may not use classrooms for the posting or display of materials to promote or convey a political, religious, or personal message. 

This policy does not require a principal to remove photos, decorations, or other personal items from a teacher's desk or surrounding area as long as the items do not disrupt the learning process. 

Policy References: IKD, IKDA and KN 

Adoption Date: 01/09/2023 

 

IFBE 

Head Start Internal Dispute Resolution 

In matters concerning a decision on hiring/firing a Head Start Director, requests for refunding of next year’s Head Start Program, or major changes in budget and/or work plans while the Head Start Program is in  operations: if the decision of the Board of Education does not concur with Head Start Policy Council recommendation and the Director of the program believes the Policy Council probably will not concur with  Board Decision, the Board will implement the following process:  

Procedures 

Within one day, the Board of Education will notify the Policy Council in writing of the decision and the Board’s reason for the decision. 

On or before the tenth (10th) day, the Head Start Policy Council will hold a meeting to consider the Board’s decision or action, then responding to the Board in writing of Policy Council’s approval or disapproval of Board  decision. If Policy Council disapproves, the written notification will include a statement of reasons. 

On or before the fourteenth (14th) day, a joint meeting will be held. Attendees at this meeting will be two  representatives from the Board, two representatives from the Policy Council and a fifth representative  designated by the ACYF (Administration for Children, Youth and Families, Region VII Head Start Office. It this  meeting fails to produce an agreement, the Board will respond within five (5) working days on its intend to  submit the impasse for arbitration. The Board and Policy Council shall each have previously selected on  arbitrator so help resolve such situations, and together they shall have generated a list of 3-5 mutually acceptable arbitrators. The Board’s arbitrator and the Policy Council’s arbitrator shall select a third arbitrator  from the list of mutually acceptable candidates, on the three of them shall schedule a hearing within five (5)  days. 

On or before the 24th day, the Arbitration Panel of three meets and hears oral presentations by one  representative of each of the Board and the Policy Council, asks questions and reviews materials concerning  the impasse. 

On or before the 29th day, the Panel will issue its decision in writing to the Board and the Policy Council, and  the decision is final. 

If agreed upon by both parties, more time may be granted to extend any part of this process at any point.

Adoption Date: 11/09/1998, Revised: 06/08/2009

 

IFBH 

Outside Speakers 

With administrative approval, outside speakers may be invited to meet with groups of students as part of the educational process. 

Speakers shall be informed of this policy and any rules when they are invited to make a presentation. Outside speakers should be selected so that various points of view are presented. 

The teacher/sponsor or any member of the school administration may interrupt or suspend any proceedings if the speaker is not abiding by these rules. 

With prior board approval an honorarium may be paid to outside speakers. 

Policy Reference: IKB

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

IFC 

Community Resources  

The use of community resources is encouraged where legitimate educational objectives may be advanced. 

The licensed staff shall maintain a list of suitable community resources which may be used for field trips and other excursions. 

Policy References: KFD 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 07/08/2019

 

IFCB 

Field Trips 

USD Approved Field Trips 

Field trips may be approved by the principal when reasonable educational objectives can be established. 

Advance requests for field trips including transportation and other resource needs shall be submitted by the  teacher to the principal. Each building principal shall develop a form to notify parents of a forthcoming field  trip. The form shall include the nature of the trip, departure time, expected return time, name of sponsor(s)  and mode of travel. The form shall also include a space where a parent may ask that a child be excused and  the reasons for the excuse. 

Non-Sanctioned Field Trips 

Non-sanctioned field trips organized by employees acting as independent contractors/agents involving  students on a volunteer, self-supporting basis are not approved by the board and are not considered a part of  the curriculum. Total responsibility for privately planned field trips or tours rests with the individual(s) and  agency sponsoring them. The district assumes no legal or financial responsibilities for non-sanctioned field  trips. 

Every attempt should be made to schedule non-board approved trips during weekends and/or vacation  periods. If travel arrangements necessitate that some school days are missed, normal procedures for staff and  students absences must be followed. 

If recruitment of students is sought through the schools(s), the request for recruitment shall be made in  accordance with those of private citizens. Recruitment efforts may occur during class time or the employee's  work day, with prior approval of the superintendent. 

Adoption Date: 12/08/2003, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

IFCC 

Overnight Accommodations 

During school district sponsored travel that requires overnight stays by students, separate overnight accommodations will be provided for students of each biological sex. 

Definitions 

“Biological sex” means the biological indication of male and female in the context of reproductive potential or  capacity, such as sex chromosomes, naturally occurring sex hormones, gonads, and nonambiguous internal and  external genitalia present at birth, without regard to an individual’s psychological, chosen, or subjective  experience of gender. 

“School district sponsored travel” means any travel that is necessary for students to attend, participate, or  compete in any event or activity that is sponsored or sanctioned by a school operated by the school district, including, but not limited to, any travel that is organized: 

• By any club or other organization recognized by the school; 
• Through any communication facilitated by the school, such as email; or 
• Through fundraising activities conducted, in whole or in part, by school district employees or on  school district property. 

Notice to Parents 

This policy will be provided to parents prior to a student’s participation in a school district sponsored activity or travel that requires overnight stays by students. 

Adoption Date: 06/26/2023

 

IHA 

Grading System 

The district shall have board-approved methods for assessing and reporting the quality of student academic  progress. Information shall be published in appropriate handbooks. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

IHB 

Homework 

Homework shall be an extension of daily learning and provide the opportunity to practice skills and concepts introduced in the classroom.  

Homework shall not be used as a means to discipline students. Homework shall be assigned as needed to reinforce lessons introduced in the classroom. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009

 

IHEA 

Make-Up Opportunities 

Within time limits established by the administration, all teachers shall supply make-up work assignments when requested. The time limits shall be included in the staff and student handbooks each year. 

Policy Reference: JBD and JDD

Adoption Date: 06/15/1992, Revised: 06/08/2009

 

IHF 

Graduation Requirements 

The board may adopt graduation requirements exceeding the minimums set forth by state regulation.  Unless otherwise provided herein, in order to qualify for graduation, students must earn 26 academic credits and complete two accomplishments that demonstrate the student will be a successful high school graduate that meet state and district requirements.  This credit requirement shall apply beginning with those students who will enter the ninth grade in the school year following the effective date of the additional requirement.

Exceptions may be granted by the board to waive local graduation requirements that are in excess of the state minimum requirements for students on a case-by-case basis.

The board shall award a student a diploma if the student is at least 17 years old; is enrolled or resides in the district; was in custody of the Secretary of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the Secretary for DCF, or a federally recognized Indian tribe in this state at any time on or after the student’s 14th birthday; and has achieved at least the minimum high school graduation requirements adopted by the state board of education.

Other situations which may warrant waiver of graduation requirements in excess of the minimum requirements adopted by the state board include, but may not be limited to, the following circumstances:

• If such student is an adult learner whose four-year cohorts have graduated; or
• if such student is attending an alternative school or program and has experienced high mobility, teen pregnancy, long-term illness, or other hardship conditions.

Policy Reference: JFCA

Adoption Date: 12/08/2003, Revised: 06/08/2009; 08/10/2015, 12/2025; 7/2026

 

II 

Educational Testing Program 

The district educational testing program shall consist of multiple assessments. These assessments shall  include, as a minimum, individual teacher subject matter tests, district group achievement tests, and state  required tests. 

Test Integrity 
The board requires all licensed staff members to protect the integrity of the student assessment process.  Honest administration of the test and accurate reporting of student achievement to the board, the community  and the state of Kansas is necessary to maintain accountability measures. All students and staff are required to  maintain a high level of integrity in the administration and completion of student assessments. 

Reporting Test Results 
The superintendent shall report annually in writing to the board the results of the district’s academic  achievement testing program. State required test results shall be disaggregated as required by current  regulation and shall be reported annually to the board, district patrons and the State Board of Education. 

Test Administration 
In the administration of district, State, and/or standardized tests, licensed staff (teachers, administrators and  others) shall not: 

• Provide inappropriate test preparation 
• Modify test administration procedures. 
• Provide inappropriate assistance to students during test administration. 
• Change or fill in answers on student answer sheets. 
• Provide inaccurate data on student information sheets. 
• Discourage or exclude certain students from taking the test. 
• Engage in any other practice to artificially raise student scores without actually improving underlying  student achievement. 

Failure by staff to follow these district guidelines and/or state testing directions is grounds for disciplinary  action up to and including termination. 

Policy References: BCBK and BE

Policy References: CN and CYA

Policy References: IDAE and IJ

Policy Reference: JF and JR

Policy Reference: KBA

Adoption Date: 6/6/2006, Revised: 6/8/2009 

 

IIA 
Performance-Based Credits 
A student may earn credits towards high school graduation by demonstrating mastery of the course outcomes through a performance instrument. The standards for designing and passing the performance instrument shall be set sufficiently high to ensure credits earned by such means shall be equivalent to those offered in the framework of the Carnegie unit. 

A written request to “test out” of a class must be submitted prior to the beginning of each semester/year. A student may not request to “test out” of a class in which he or she is currently enrolled or has been enrolled. 

The request is to be evaluated within 30 school days by a review committee composed of: a building administrator, a school counselor, a faculty member appointed by the principal, and the students’ parent(s) or guardian(s). 

If the request is approved, the course instructor will have 30 school days to design a performance instrument that reflects mastery of all course outcomes. Commercially available instruments may be used if they cover all course objectives. A performance instrument shall be approved by the principal. The principal, in consultation with the instructor, will determine the setting and the timelines for the administration of the instrument, as well as the criteria for successful completion of those tasks. 

The student has 10 school days in which those designated tasks developed by the teacher and approved by the administration must be performed.  

Credit for such classes shall be awarded only on a pass/fail basis. Students will be allowed only one opportunity to “test out” of any particular class. It will not be the responsibility of the school or the instructor to provide  instructional and/or review time for the student. However, the outcomes, as noted in the district curriculum  guide, and class syllabus will be made available. 

Graduation Credit Through Integrated Coursework 
The board may allow graduation credit for integrated academic or career and technical education course work.  The teacher awarding academic credit shall be fully licensed and may work collaboratively with another instructor to develop a course plan for instruction. The teacher shall monitor the student’s progress and level of achievement. The plan will be reviewed periodically to maintain rigor and relevance. 

Any secondary student (Grades 7 through 12) identified Gifted according to policy and rules of the board and the rules of the State Board of Education may request a test out opportunity, which must meet the following guidelines. 

• To be eligible to participate in the test out program, a student must meet one of the following criteria:   
  • Be identified as gifted and have an active Individual Educational Plan (IEP) on file; 
  • Have a G.P.A. of 3.5 or above, accumulative; 
  • Show superior talent necessary for the test out request. Teacher, counselor and parent recommendations and principal approval are required before test out may be granted. 
• Students must be able to demonstrate superior ability in the subject area with a score of 90% or   bove on a criterion-referenced performance assessment that is based on course exit outcomes. 
• The assessment will be exams developed, based upon the same course objectives and exit outcomes. 
• The performance assessment shall be developed by the department chair and staff, and approved  by the superintendent or his/her designee. The examination will be available and kept on file in the principal’s office. The test will be administered by the principal or his/her designee. 
• The student must file a request to test out with the principal at least one month or 20 school days  prior to the beginning of each semester/year or with special permission of the principal. 
• The class must be a required course. 
• Prior to the test date, the student will meet with the Gifted Teacher, department representative,   and/or counselor or his/her designee to receive course syllabus, request instructional materials,   and receive the assessment timelines and date(s). 
• Students will receive credit with a minimum score of 80% on the performance assessment. All credit   will be recorded on the transcript at the grade level at which the student is enrolled. The transcript   will reflect the name of the course, amount of credit and TEST-OUT designation. (No grade will be   given for G.P.A. points.) 
• Only pass credit will be given. If the student does not pass the test, no entry is to be made on  the official transcript. 
• Students who attempt test out but do not meet the minimum criteria as established must complete   the required coursework as part of the regular or summer schedule. No second attempt will be approved for failure to meet the 80% criteria for that attempted class. 
• Student will be limited to test out of one (1) unit of credit per term. This may be a full year course or   Two (2) half year courses. Exceptions to this limit may be approved by the principal. 
• Eligibility for test out will be available starting at the end of the sixth grade year or as indicated by the   student’s Individual Educational Plan (IEP). 
• Elementary students are not eligible for test out opportunities, but may be accelerated in any course as indicated by the student’s Individual Educational Plan (IEP). 

Credit Through Alternative Educational Opportunities 
Students enrolled in grades six through twelve may earn course credits through alternative educational  opportunities with sponsoring entities. For the purposes of this policy, terms have the following meanings. 

• “Alternative educational opportunity” means instruction that primarily occurs outside the classroom  with a sponsoring entity. 
• “Sponsoring entity” means a business, not-for-profit organization, nonprofit organization, trade  association, parent of a student, teacher, or administrator that partners with a school district to  provide an alternative educational opportunity to students.

Eligibility Requirements for Sponsoring Entities 
The board may accept a proposal from a sponsoring entity if the alternative educational opportunity provided  by the sponsoring entity provides an additional learning opportunity for students through a work-based, pre apprenticeship, apprenticeship, internship, industry certification, or community program; and either the  proposal is approved by the state board of education as an alternative educational opportunity, or it complies  with the requirements of this policy regarding such opportunities. 

Requirements for the Provision of Alternative Educational Opportunities 
Each approved alternative educational opportunity with a sponsoring entity shall be managed and directed by  a licensed teacher employed by the school district. The teacher may work collaboratively with the principal, the  sponsoring entity, or another teacher to develop a course plan for instruction with learning outcomes identified.  The teacher shall monitor the student’s progress and level of achievement based on this plan. The plan will be  reviewed periodically and adjusted as needed to promote a quality learning experience. The principal shall  provide a report annually, or as requested, to the superintendent evaluating the additional educational opportunity provided to participating students and making recommendations to the superintendent on continuation, termination, or modification of the opportunity. 

Processes for Submitting a Proposal for an Additional Educational Opportunity 
Sponsoring entities wishing to partner with the district to provide additional educational opportunities to students, shall submit a proposal to the superintendent outlining the contact information and credentials of the person(s) that would be working directly with the student participants in this experience; educational goals for the partnership; any time, place, manner, and number of participant restrictions regarding how the learning opportunity would be provided; proposed learning outcomes for participating students; and any details regarding prerequisite coursework, certification, or experience a candidate for this experience should possess  prior to entering the program. 

Criteria for Evaluating Such Proposals 
Prior to making a recommendation to the board on whether the district should partner with or continue to partner with a sponsoring entity, the superintendent shall review the proposed alternative educational  opportunity in comparison with the board approved curriculum and goals, consulting other staff members as necessary in that process. Before recommending action to continue such partnership from year-to-year, the superintendent may seek and shall review any available reports on the opportunity provided by the principal in accordance with this policy. 

The board should consider the recommendation of the superintendent in determining whether to partner with or continue partnership with a sponsoring entity. In order for the board to partner with a sponsoring entity and to maintain such partnership, the sponsoring entity must first meet the eligibility requirements as outlined in this policy.  

Additional considerations weighing into the decision to partner with a sponsoring entity may include, but may  not be limited to: whether the learning experience meets the curricular, rigor, and relevance needs of the  student and/or the district; qualifications, experience, reputation, and responsibility of the sponsoring entity  and/or individuals that would be working directly with students; related costs for the district, regarding the  provision of transportation, equipment, human resources to monitor the experience, etc.; space and time  constraints if the experience will be provided in district facilities; student and staff safety; the need for and/or  availability of insurance coverage, as applicable; effect on other district course offerings and activities; and student interest. As the welfare of students is of paramount importance to the board, the district reserves the right to complete background checks on any individuals working directly with students on behalf of the  sponsoring entity and to base decisions on entering or exiting such a partnership, in whole or in part, on the  results thereof.  

Determining the Course Credit that May Be Earned Through These Opportunities 
The superintendent may develop procedures for review of the experience and the award of credit in accordance  with board approved curriculum. The superintendent may award credit for the experience as deemed appropriate for district elective offerings based on meeting local standards for those offerings. In order for any  alternative educational experience to be approved for credit in a state-required course, such experience must  meet all applicable statutory, regulatory, and Kansas State Board of Education approved standards for award of  such credit.  

State Reporting Requirements 
The superintendent or the superintendent’s designee shall make reports to the Kansas State Department of  Education as required thereby. Such reports will include information regarding the alternative educational  opportunities offered at each school, the names of sponsoring entities, the number of students participating in  such opportunities, and credits earned. 

Adoption Date: 10/12/1998, Revised 06/08/2009; 01/10/22; 07/11/2022
 

IIBF 

Acceptable Use Guidelines 

Purpose 

The district provides computer network and internet access for its students and employees. This service allows  employees and students to share information, learn new concepts, research diverse subjects, and create and  maintain school-based websites. The district has adopted the following Acceptable Use Guidelines to govern  the conduct of those who elect to access the computer network or district Internet. 

Acceptable Use Guidelines 

Users shall adhere to the following guidelines of acceptable use: 

• All use of the Internet will be in support of educational activities.  
• Users will report misuse and breaches of network security.  
• Users shall not access, delete, copy, modify, nor forge other users’ e-mails, files, or data.  
• Users shall not use other users’ passwords nor disclose their password to others.  
• Users shall not pursue unauthorized access, disruptive activities, nor other actions commonly referred to  as “hacking,” internally or externally to the district.  
• Users shall not disclose confidential information about themselves or others.  
• User shall not utilize unlicensed software.  
• Users shall not access or permit access to pornography, obscene depictions, or other materials harmful  to minors.  
• Students shall not disable or attempt to disable Internet filtering software. 

Prohibitions 

Although the district reserves the right to determine what use of the district network is appropriate, the  following actions are specifically prohibited: 

• Transferring copyrighted materials to or from any district network without the express consent of the  owner of the copyright.  
• Use of the network for creation, dissemination, or viewing of defamatory, factually inaccurate, abusive,  obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, or other material prohibited by law or  district policy.  
• Dissemination of personnel or student information via the network when such information is protected  by law, including the Family and Educational Rights Act or Student Data Privacy Act.  
• Utilization of the network to disseminate non-work-related material.  
• Utilization of the network as a means for advertising or solicitation. 

Monitoring 

The school district reserves the right to monitor, without prior notice, any and all usage of the computer  network and district Internet access, including, but not by way of limitation, e-mail transmissions, and  receptions. Any information gathered during monitoring may be copied, reviewed, and stored. All such  information files shall be and remain the property of the school district, and no user shall have any  expectation of privacy regarding his/her use of the computer network or the district Internet. 

Internet Safety 

In compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) and the Kansas Children's Internet Protection  Act, the school district will implement filtering and or blocking software to restrict access to Internet sites  containing child pornography, obscene depictions, or other materials harmful to minors. The school district,  however, cannot and does not guarantee the effectiveness of filtering software. Any student who connects to 

such a site must immediately disconnect from the site and notify a teacher. An employee who accidentally  connects to such a site must immediately disconnect from the site and notify a supervisor. If a user sees  another user accessing inappropriate sites, he or she should notify a teacher or supervisor immediately. The  school district administration reserves the right to prohibit access to any network or Internet it deems  inappropriate or harmful. The school district shall instruct students regarding appropriate online behavior  including cyberbullying. 

Penalties for Improper Use 

Access to the network and Internet is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate use will result in the restriction or  cancellation of the access. The district has the right to make the determination of what constitutes  inappropriate use and use as an educational tool. Inappropriate use may lead to any disciplinary and/or legal  action, up to and including suspension and/or expulsion of district students and suspension and/or  termination of employees. Law enforcement shall be notified of inappropriate use which may constitute a  violation of Federal or state law, and such use may result in criminal prosecution.  

Adoption Date: 08/11/2014

 

IIBG 

Computer and Device Use 

Use of District Computers/Privacy Rights 

District issued computer systems and electronic devices (including, but not limited to Smartboards, iPads,  iTouches, iPhones, eReaders, and eBooks ) are for educational and professional use only. All information  created by staff or stored thereon shall be considered district property and shall be subject to unannounced  monitoring by district administrators. Unauthorized access to and/or unauthorized use of the district server or  security system (including, but not limited to, surveillance footage) is also prohibited. The district retains the  right to discipline any student, up to and including expulsion, and any employee, up to and including  termination, for violation of this policy. 

Copyright 

Software acquired by staff using either district or personal funds, and installed on district computers, or  electronic devices must comply with copyright laws. Proof of purchase (copy or original) for software must be  filed in the district office. 

Installation 

No software, including freeware and shareware, or other applications may be installed on any district  computer or electronic device until cleared by the network administrator. The administrator will verify the  compatibility of the software or application with existing software, hardware, and applications and prescribe  installation and de-installation procedures. Program files must have the superintendent’s approval to be  installed on any district server or computer.  

Hardware 

Staff shall not install unapproved hardware on district computers, or make changes to software settings that  support district hardware. 

Audits 

The administration may conduct periodic audits of software and applications installed on district equipment to  verify legitimate use. 

E-mail Privacy Rights 

Employees and/or students shall have no expectation of privacy when using district e-mail or other official  communication systems. Any e-mail or computer application or information in district computers, computer  systems, or electronic devices is subject to monitoring by the administration. 

Ownership of Employee Computer Materials 

Computer materials, devices, software, or applications created as part of any assigned district responsibility or  classroom activity undertaken on school time shall be the property of the board. 

Cameras 

Cameras may be used at school, on school property or at school activities or functions only if they are not  disruptive, as determined by the school staff. Cameras shall not be used in the classroom unless the  photographs or videos taken are for an official or authorized school publication or broadcast. Cameras shall  not be used in such a fashion as to inappropriately invade the privacy of others. No camera shall be used in  any restroom, dressing area, or locker room. Cameras shall not be used to record confidential material, such  as classroom material, tests, or grade book entries.

For the purposes of this section, “camera” shall be defined to include film cameras, movie cameras, digital  cameras, video cameras, cellular telephone cameras (capable of recording either still images and/or video),  videophones, web cameras, and any other device capable of taking, storing, transmitting, or viewing pictures  or video. 

Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Computers and/or Equipment 

Students and staff members shall be responsible for reimbursing the district for replacement of or repair to  district issued computers or electronic devices which are lost, stolen, or damaged while in the students' or  staff members' possession. 

Staff Handbook 

Employees shall have no expectation of privacy when using district e-mail or other official communication  systems. E-mail messages shall be used only to conduct approved and official district business. All employees  must use appropriate language in all messages. Employees are expected to conduct themselves in a  professional manner and to use the system according to these guidelines or other guidelines published by the  administration. 

Any e-mail or computer application or information in district computers or computer systems is subject to  monitoring by the administration. The district retains the right to duplicate any information in the system or  on any hard drive. Employees who violate district computer policies are subject to disciplinary action up to and  including termination. 

Student Handbook 

Students shall have no expectation of privacy when using district e-mail or computer systems. E-mail messages  shall be used only for approved educational purposes. Students must use appropriate language in all  messages. Students are expected to use the system following guidelines approved by teachers or the  administration. 

Any e-mail or computer application or information in district computers or computer systems is subject to  monitoring by the staff and/or administration. The school retains the right to duplicate any information  created by students in a computer system or on any individual computer. Students who violate these rules or  any other classroom rules relating to computer use are subject to disciplinary action up to and including  suspension from school. 

Dodge City Unified School District 443 

Internet and other On-Line Services-Acceptable Use 

Dodge City USD #443 

ACCEPTABLE USE 

Internet/On-Line Services - Acceptable Use 

The purpose for the Internet and other on-line services provided by Unified School District 443 is to facilitate and support research and education by providing access to a variety of resources and an opportunity for collaborative work. 

Users may encounter material that is controversial which users, parents, teachers or administrators may  consider inappropriate or objectionable. On a worldwide network it is impossible to effectively control the  content of and access to information and data. It is the responsibility of the user not to initiate or pursue  access to such material. USD 443 prohibits procurement of material not consistent with the educational goals  of the district. 

Access to and use of the Internet and other on-line services must reflect district and building expectations for  proper, legal and ethical use. Examples of unacceptable use include, but are not limited to: 

• Transmission of any material in violation of State or Federal regulations, including copyright regulations. 
• Use for individual commercial activities, including product advertisement, or for political lobbying. 
• Use to access or obtain explicit or objectionable material. 
• Transmission of offensive, harassing, discriminatory, or otherwise objectionable material. 
• Use that disrupts the use of the network and related services for other users, including damage or  degradation of hardware and software. 
• Access, modification, or damage to files, passwords, or other data belonging to other users. 
• Modification of system or software parameters as established by network administrators. 
• Use of personal software without authorization for a network administrator who has the responsibility  for guaranteeing the software's virus-free, and copyright status. 

Unified School District 443 reserves the right to determine whether specific uses of the network are consistent  with this acceptable use policy. In addition, the district reserves the right to log Internet use and to monitor  file server space utilization. USD 443 further reserves the right to monitor use, including e-mail and remove  user accounts and/or restrict user access in order to prevent unauthorized activity. 

Regulation 

Each school may develop and maintain guidelines for access and use of Internet and other on-line services. A  "Parent/Student Agreement" is to be signed by the parents/guardians, the student and a representative of the  district/school during the first year of implementation of this policy. Thereafter, the agreement shall be  completed for all incoming students. This agreement shall be used annually with students to review  district/school expectations for the use of Internet and other on-line services, and shall be filed in the school  office. 

Policy Reference: ECH

Policy Reference: JCDA

Policy Reference: KBA

Adoption Date: 12/08/2003, Revised: 07/09/2012; 06/22/2009; 03/03/2014 

 

IIBGA 

Children's Internet Protection Act 

The district shall implement and enforce an internet safety plan meeting the requirements of both the federal  and the Kansas Children’s Internet Protection Acts (CIPA). The superintendent shall develop a plan to  implement the Children’s Internet Protection Acts.  

Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) PLAN 
Such plan shall include technology protection measures and such other measures as deemed appropriate to  address the following issues: 

• Access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web, 
• The safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct  electronic communications, 
• Unauthorized access, including so-called “hacking,” and other unlawful activities by minors online; unlawful  activities by minors online; 
• Unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding minors; and information regarding minors; and 
• Measures designed to restrict minors’ access to materials that may be harmful to them. For the purposes of this policy, “minor” shall be defined to mean any student who is under 18 years of age.  The board charges the superintendent to develop the CIPA implementing plan so that all of the protections provided by this policy and the corresponding plan may be afforded to all district students, regardless of their age. 

If the district is providing public access to any computer, the CIPA plan shall also implement and enforce  technology protection measures to ensure no minor has access to visual depictions that are child  pornography, harmful to minors, or obscene. This plan shall be on file with the board clerk and in each school  office with Internet access, and copies shall be made available upon request. The superintendent shall ensure  compliance with CIPA by completing Federal Communication Commission forms as required. 

Children’s Internet Protection Plan (CIPA) Plan 
It is the policy of USD 443 to take the following technology protection or other specified measures in order to  better protect our district students from harmful online and electronically transmitted content: 

• install blocks or Internet filters to the district network in order to limit access by both minors and adults  to child pornography and visual depictions or materials that are obscene, inappropriate, or harmful to  minors and/or the transmission thereof; 
• monitor the online activities of students while at school, at school sponsored activities, or while utilizing  the district’s network, computer system, computers, e-mail system, or electronic devices having access  to the Internet; 
• address issues related to the safety of students when using e-mail, chat rooms, and other electronic  communication; 
• educate students about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on  social networking websites and in chat rooms as well as on cyberbullying awareness and response; 
• hinder unauthorized access (hacking) and other unlawful on-line activities by students; and 
• prevent unauthorized disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal information regarding minors, which  shall include but may not be limited to, personally identifiable information found in student records; and 
• comply with the Children’s Internet Protection Act. 

Access to Inappropriate Material
To the extent practicable, technology protection measures or Internet filters shall be used to block or filter the  Internet or other forms of electronic devices from accessing child pornography as well as obscene,  inappropriate, or harmful material given the age and maturity levels of district students. It is the district’s goal  to implement and enforce technology protection measures under this plan in such a way as to ensure no minor has access to visual depictions that are child pornography, harmful to minors, or obscene. 

Subject to administrative approval, technology protection measures may be minimized only for bonafide research or other lawful purposes that are closely monitored by district staff. 

Inappropriate Network Usage 
To the extent practicable, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of the district’s  online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications. 

Specifically, in accordance with CIPA, measures to prevent inappropriate network usage shall include frequent  monitoring of the District’s network, computer systems, and equipment to detect any unauthorized access to  prohibited materials as described earlier in this plan, hacking, and other unlawful activities by students or staff  members. Such monitoring shall also strive to detect unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of  personally identifiable information regarding students. 

Education, Supervision and Monitoring 
It shall be the responsibility of all members of the District’s staff to educate, supervise, and monitor appropriate usage of online computer network access to the internet in accordance with this policy and CIPA.  

If, during the course of such monitoring, a student or staff member discovers a violation of this policy, the student or staff member shall make a report as follows: 

• Students shall report suspected violation of this policy to any classroom teacher. 
• Staff members shall report suspected violations of this policy to their immediate supervisor when possible. 

Disciplinary Measures 
The district retains the right to discipline any student, up to and including expulsion, and any employee, up to  and including termination, for violation of this policy. 

Adoption 
This Children’s Internet Protection Act Safety Plan was adopted by the Board of USD 443 at a public meeting,  following normal public notice and a hearing, on August 12, 2013. 
 

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009, Revised: 07/09/2012; 08/12/2013 

 

IIBGB 

Online Learning Opportunities 

Application 

Students may apply for permission to enroll in an online course for credit. Applications for the next academic year shall be submitted to the principal no later than April 20. The student and the student’s parents shall be informed of the administrator’s decision in writing no later than June 1. 

Students may not enroll in an online course as an alternative to any course offered by the high school, including an attempt to earn credit for a class already attempted but failed by the student, without prior permission of the principal and superintendent. 

Guidelines 

The following guidelines shall be used by the administration: 

• Only administration approved courses shall be posted on student transcripts. 
• Approval of any course shall be based upon the course content and rigor, its length and scope, its  method of assessing knowledge acquired by the student, the qualifications of the instructor, and  other appropriate factors. 
• Enrollment in an online course will be allowed only if an appropriately certified staff member is  available and willing to supervise the student’s participation in the course. 
• Suspended or expelled students may also apply for permission to enroll in online course work. 

Other Regulations or Guidelines 

Approval of online coursework shall be based on the requirements of Kansas law, Kansas State Department of  Education regulations, and board credit requirements and/or guidelines in effect at the time the student request  is made.

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009, Revised: 07/09/2012; 07/11/2022

 

IIBGC 
Staff Online Activities  
(See GAF, GBU, IIBG, IIBGA, and KGA)

Employees are encouraged to use district electronic mail and other district technology and resources to promote student learning and to communicate with parents of students and education-related entities. If those resources are used, they shall be used for purposes directly related to work-related activities.  Technology-based materials, activities, and communication tools utilized by employees with students shall be used in accordance with law and appropriate for and within the range of the knowledge, understanding, age, and maturity of students with whom they are used.

District employees, including, but not limited to, administrators, classroom teachers, and extracurricular and co-curricular activity coaches and sponsors, may set up social media accounts using district technological resources, following district policy and procedures to promote and enhance communications with students, parents, and the community concerning school-related programs and activities as well as for the purpose of supplementing classroom instruction.  Social media sites and other online communication options offering instructional benefits may be used for the purpose of supplementing classroom instruction and to promote communications with students and parents concerning school-related activities, as allowed by law and this policy.

Definitions
For purposes of this policy, a “social media platform” is any online website or application that permits a person to become a registered user, create an account or profile for the primary purpose of creating, sharing, or interacting with user-generated content that is publicly viewable. “Social media platform” includes, but is not limited to, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X (Twitter). “Social media platform” does not include:

• Any online website or application whose primary purpose is educational;
• Any platform approved by the board if such platform:
• Is owned, licensed, or contractually controlled by the school district;
• allows for required user accounts;
• allows communications to be monitored, archived, retained, or audited in compliance with policy or law;
• is accessible to parents or guardians; and
• used by employees in accordance with policy;
• email;
• direct messaging services that only share messages between a sender and a named recipient and does not display or post messages publicly or to users not identified as recipients by the sender of the message; and
• any online product or service that does not have school-specific features or identifiers and the predominant purpose is to post educational materials, news, resources and user comments, or other interactive functionality that is incidental to such predominant purpose.

For purposes of this policy, “official school purposes” means the broadcasting or posting of public, one-way communications that pertain to school functions, activities, or events. “Official school purposes” does not include private communications, direct communications, or two-way communications with any student.

Use of Social Media for District Purposes
In order for district employees to utilize a social media platform for instructional, administrative, or other work-related communication purposes, they shall comply with the following:

• They shall request permission from the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee(s) prior to using any social media platform for district purposes.
• If permission is granted, staff members will set up the page or account following all district policy, administrative procedures, and directives.  This shall include, but may not be limited to, limiting the employee to using only board approved social media platforms for official school purposes and giving administrative access and editing rights to designated district or school officials.
• If the expenditure of district funds is required to complete the setup or maintenance of the page or account, the requesting staff member shall present an itemized summary of such costs to the superintendent for appropriate approval. 
• Once the page or account is in use, the sponsoring staff member is responsible for the following:
  • Monitoring and managing the page or account to promote safe and acceptable use and compliance with district policies, administrative guidelines, directives, and applicable law; and
  • Observing confidentiality restrictions concerning release of personally identifiable student information under state and federal law.

Prohibitions Regarding Social Media Platforms
No employee of the district shall privately or directly communicate with any student through a social media platform, except as expressly permitted under this policy.  This prohibition applies regardless of whether communication occurs during or outside the school day.

No employee shall require a student to use a social media platform for any assignment or extracurricular activity.

The provisions of this policy do not apply to any virtual school, as defined by Kansas law.   

Uses of Social Media Platforms for Official School Purposes
The board may approve specific social media platforms for employee use for official school purposes, and employees are expected to utilize only board approved social media platforms in the performance of any district related work responsibilities, including the posting of information on behalf of district programs, clubs, and activities.

Board-approved social media platforms may be used by employees only for the following purposes:

• Posting or broadcasting one-way, public communications; and
• sharing general information related to school programs, activities, or events.
• Employees shall not use social media platforms for any form of two-way interaction with students, including but not limited to:
• Private or direct messaging;
• comment-based conversations; or
• other two-way exchange of individualized messages with a student.

Other Online Platforms

• Employees may communicate with students through platforms that are not classified as social media platforms, provided such use complies with board policy and applicable law. These platforms may include:
• District email accounts;
• district learning management systems;
• board approved messaging, notification, or collaboration platforms; and
• direct messaging applications.

Training and Compliance
The superintendent or designee shall provide training to employees regarding acceptable social media platform communication practices as necessary for implementation of new requirements and then periodically thereafter.

Disciplinary Actions
Staff members are strongly discouraged from creating personal social media accounts with which they connect with current or future students. Employees taking such action do so at their own risk. All employees shall be subject to disciplinary action if their conduct relating to use of technology, social media, or online resources violates board policy, administrative regulations and/or procedures, or supervisory directives; Kansas law regarding social media platform use by school employees; statutory or regulatory provisions governing employee conduct or the protection of student record information; or if it impairs the staff member’s job performance or effectiveness in the work setting. 

District staff shall protect the health, safety, and emotional well-being of students and confidentiality of student information both in the school setting and in their offsite, online actions. Conduct in violation of this policy, including, but not limited to, acts relating to the use of technology, any social media platform, or online resources, may form the basis for disciplinary action up to and including termination from employment.

To ensure consistent, secure, and accessible communication with students, families, staff, and the community, Dodge City Public Schools has designated specific platforms for official district communications.

District-approved social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and X, will be used for one-way communication, public information sharing, celebrations, announcements, and promotion of district programs, activities, and events. As stated in this policy, employees shall not use social media platforms for any form of two-way interaction with students, including, but not limited to: Private or direct messaging; comment-based conversations; or other two-way exchange of individualized messages with a student.

ParentSquare, StudentSquare, and district generated and monitored email accounts are the district’s approved platforms for direct communication with parents, guardians, students, and staff. Communications requiring responses, student-specific information, school-to-home messaging, classroom updates, notifications, and other interactive communications shall be conducted through ParentSquare and StudentSquare. District employees should utilize these approved platforms to ensure communication is consistent, secure, documented, and accessible to all stakeholders.

Policy References: GAF and GBU

Policy References: IIBG and IIBGA

Policy Reference: KGA

Adoption Date: 8/12/2013 Revised: 5/11/2026; 7/2026 DC

 

IJ 

Evaluation of Instructional Program  

The superintendent may develop guidelines to evaluate the instructional program. This evaluation may be part of the district's school improvement efforts. 

The superintendent may establish special curriculum committees to study the district's instructional program  on a regular schedule. The superintendent may require reports from these committees which may include the committee's recommendations for improvement, modification, or elimination of any part of the instructional program. The superintendent may submit a comprehensive report from the committees to the board.  

Policy References: IC, ICAA, ID and II

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 07/09/2012; 07/08/2019; 08/10/2020

©KASB. This material may be reproduced for use in USD 443. It may not be reproduced, either in whole or in part, in any form whatsoever, to be given, sold or  transmitted to any person or entity including but not limited to another school district, organization, company or corporation without written permission from KASB. 

 

IKA 

Financial Literacy 

The board supports the goal of providing district students with sufficient knowledge of economic systems to make informed, financial choices. In furtherance of this goal, the board directs the superintendent to develop  and implement a plan to incorporate outcome-based personal financial literacy education into the district’s  instructional program.  

The superintendent shall document district efforts to provide financial literacy education opportunities for district students and shall provide, upon request, feedback or information to the Kansas State Department of  Education on such efforts.  

Policy Reference: ID

Adoption Date: 08/10/2015

 

IKB 

Controversial Issues 

When a controversial subject arises in the classroom, teachers may use the opportunity to teach about the controversy but shall take care to ensure that curricular content delivery remains the focus of the conversation.

Teachers shall ensure that various positions concerning any controversial subject are presented and that students have the opportunity to freely discuss the topic. Teachers are discouraged from expressing personal viewpoints during these discussions which would violate any board policy or Kansas law, such as engaging in prohibited political acts using district time or property.

Policy References: GAHB and GBU

Policy References: IA, IFBH, IKD and IKDA

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009, 12/2025

 

IKCA 

Human Sexuality Education

Opt-Out Procedure and Form

Parents or guardians (or a student over eighteen years of age) who do not want the student involved in all or some portion of the district’s Human Sexuality education class shall be provided a written copy of the goals and objectives for the student’s appropriate Human Sexuality class. Following review of the curriculum goals on file at the board of education office, the parent or guardian must complete the district opt-out form and state the portion(s) of the curriculum in which the student is not to be involved.

Opt-Out Form

Parents or guardians (or students eighteen years of age or older) may obtain the opt-out request

form from the {clerk of the board/principal}, completing and signing the form and returning the form to the {superintendent/principal}. The signed form will be kept on file in the {clerk of the board's/principal's} office. The building principal shall receive a copy of the signed form so the named student shall be excused from all or a portion of the Human Sexuality class. Arrangements shall also be made for class reassignment of the student during the opt-out period.

Annual Request Required

Opt-out requests shall be required annually and are valid only for the school year in which they are submitted.

IKCA – HUMAN SEXUALITY EDUCATION Human Sexuality Education

I, __________________________________________, parent/guardian of _________________________, request that my child be removed from those portions of the Human Sexuality instruction noted below: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ I have had the opportunity to review the curriculum goals and objectives or have had the opportunity to have them explained to me by a school official. 

Date_____________________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian_________________________________ 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009 12/2025

 

IKD 

Religion in Curricular or School Sponsored Activities 

No religious belief or non-belief shall be promoted or disparaged by the district or its employees. Students and staff should be tolerant of each other's religious views. Students and staff members may be excused from participating in practices contrary to their religious beliefs, and staff members are responsible for ensuring proper notice and opportunity for opt-out is given in accordance with board policy IKDA, as applicable.

Teaching About Religion

Teachers may teach about religion, religious literature and history but are prohibited from promoting, expounding upon, criticizing or ridiculing a religion. Religious texts may be used to teach about religion, but the use of religious texts is prohibited if used to promote a particular religious doctrine.

Religion in the Curriculum and School Activities

In compliance with this policy, religious themes may be presented in the curriculum and as part of school activities. Music, art, literature and drama having a religious theme or basis are permitted as part of the curriculum or as part of a school activity if they are presented in a balanced and objective manner and are a traditional part of the cultural and religious tradition of a particular holiday or field of study. The emphasis on religious themes in the arts, literature, and history should be only as extensive as necessary for a balanced and thorough study of these areas. These studies should never foster any particular religious tenets or demean any religious beliefs or non-beliefs.

Religious Symbols in the Classroom

Temporary display of religious symbols is permitted as part of the curriculum. The temporary use of religious symbols such as a cross, menorah, crescent, Star of David, creche, symbols of Native American religions or other symbols that are a part of a religious holiday are permitted as a teaching aid if they are displayed as an example of a holiday's cultural and religious heritage.

Religious Holidays

Holidays which have a religious and a secular basis may be observed. School vacations shall have secular designations, e.g., Winter Vacation, Spring Break.

Graduation and Other Ceremonies

School ceremonies shall be secular in nature. While recognizing the significance of tradition, the board requires that graduation exercises and dedication ceremonies be secular in nature.

Policy Reference: AEA

Policy Reference: IF and IKDA

Policy Reference: KN

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009, 12/2025

 

IKDA 

Religious Objections to Activities       

(See IF and IKD)

The board recognizes parents have the fundamental right to direct the religious upbringing of their children. Furthermore, Kansas law supports the ability of a parent or person acting as a parent to request their child not be required to participate in a school activity which is contrary to the religious teachings of their child. To assist district staff in consistently accommodating these rights, the board adopts the following policy.

For the purposes of this policy, terms shall have the following meanings.

“Activity” shall be deemed to include, but may not be limited to, any academic assignment, curricular lecture, presentation or planned classroom discussion; classroom project; subject-specific instruction; direct exposure to assigned reading material (whether read to or by the class or assigned to the student for independent consumption); or assembly. This term shall not be interpreted to apply to an entire course of study, except when a course of study is an elective course not required for graduation and alternative courses are available for the student’s enrollment and participation at the time of objection.

Parents or persons acting as parents shall be notified in advance and given the opportunity to opt their child out of any activity addressing topics that are known to be or are reasonably ascertainable to be contrary to the religious beliefs of the parents, persons acting as parents, or students themselves.

A parent or person acting as a parent (or a student eighteen years of age or older) may request that the student be excused from participating in activities for religious reasons. The parent, person acting as a parent, or adult student must complete the district opt-out form for religious objections, stating the specific activity, the portion of the curriculum in which the activity exists, and the reasons for the request. The request may be granted, or denied, or partially granted and partially denied.

A parent or person acting as a parent seeking to remove their child from activities contrary to the child's religious teachings must complete the district's Activity Participation Opt-Out Form regarding religious objections which is available in the school office. Parents and persons acting as parents desiring to opt their children out of activities due to religious reasons must return the completed and signed form to the principal. The form must be submitted within a reasonable amount of time prior to the scheduled activity in order to allow time for the principal to consider the request. The completed form shall be kept on file in the school office, and the principal shall receive a copy.

The principal shall review the request and determine whether the request should be granted or denied. The principal shall notify the parents or persons acting as parents of the decision within a reasonable amount of time after the request is submitted. If the parents are dissatisfied with the principal's decision, they may appeal in writing to the superintendent.

If the opt-out request is granted, the school may provide an appropriate alternative assignment or academic activity aligned with the same learning goals without penalty to the student.

Opt-out requests must be submitted annually and are valid only for the school year in which they are submitted.

Nothing in this policy shall be interpreted to allow a parent, person acting as a parent, or adult student to opt a student out of entire courses which have been deemed required graduation requirements by the board or by the state of Kansas, except as otherwise provided by law. Parents and persons acting as parents of middle or high school students are encouraged to assist students in monitoring available course offerings and their descriptions near enrollment periods in order to make appropriate course selections in line with state required graduation requirements while still accommodating the child’s sincerely held religious beliefs.

IKDA - RELIGIOUS OBJECTIONS TO ACTIVITIES 

Sample Only: Retype, remove from policy book and maintain in the school office. 

Activity Participation Opt-Out Form

I, ________________________ (parent/guardian) request that my child, ________________________, be excused from participating in certain activities for religious reasons. From what activity do you wish your child to be excused? ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Identify where in the curriculum the activity exists. (Please identify the grade level, class, building.) ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 For what reason do you wish your child to be excused. (Please state the particular religious objection to this activity, including the religious teaching you believe this activity violates.) _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

I understand that I am requesting the school to excuse my child from certain activities and that my request is subject to review and determination by the school. I further understand that if my request is granted, the school may provide an appropriate alternative assignment or academic activity aligned with the same learning goals without penalty to the student.

Parent/Guardian Signature___________________________ Administrator Signature___________________________

Date Received ______________

Policy Reference: IF and IKD

Adoption Date: 06/08/2009; Revised 12/2025

 

IKE 

Assemblies 

Each building principal may schedule assemblies as needed. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

IKI 

Lesson Plans 

Each teacher shall develop, maintain and follow lesson plans which conform to the approved curriculum, the  district's educational goals and the expected student learning outcomes. Principals shall establish methods to  regularly review teacher lesson plans. 

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009 

 

ING 

Animals and Plants in the School 

With the prior approval of the principal, animals or plants may be brought to school for instructional purposes. 

If someone is injured by an animal or comes into contact with a toxic plant, the incident shall be immediately  reported to the administration by the supervising teacher. The principal shall notify the appropriate persons. 

Service Animals in the Schools 

Service animals are permitted in the schools and on school property in accordance with federal law. In order  for the district to accommodate the health and safety of our students and staff while maintaining our  educational services, programs, and activities, employees and students are encouraged to notify their building  administrator prior to bringing a service animal to school for the first time. Patrons or individuals attending  functions or having short term business on school property are not required to provide advance notice to school  staff in order to be accompanied by a service animal on school property.  

Access to school buildings will not be denied to a service animal as long as the animal is individually trained and  required to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. Such work or tasks must  be directly related to the individual’s disability. District staff shall not be responsible to provide care or control  of a service animal, and any service animal which is out of control or is not housebroken may be excluded by  district staff. 

For the purpose of this policy, "service animals" is not deemed to include animals provided by the school for  instructional purposes or for therapy or comfort animals.  

Under no circumstances are animals to be transported on school buses.  

Domesticated animals must be inoculated against rabies at the student's expense before the student may bring  such animal to school. Animals must be adequately housed and cared for in screened cages. Handling of animals  and plants by students must be on a voluntary basis. Only the teacher or students designated by the teacher  are to handle the animals.  

Teachers must assume primary responsibility for the humane, proper treatment of any animal in the classroom.  

Teachers must be aware of federal and state laws regulating the handling of animals. (Cf. KSA 21-4310)  

If animals are to be kept in the classroom on days when classes are not in session, the teacher must make  arrangements for their feeding, care and safety.  

All experiments using live animals must have prior approval of the principal.  

If a staff member or student has been bitten by an animal, the incident must be reported immediately to the  school office by the supervising teacher. Principals are to assume responsibility to notify public authorities to  have the animal impounded for observation. Principals will notify the parents. 

Effective: March 15, 2011 

28 C.F.R. § 35.104 

§ 35.104 Definitions. 

For purposes of this part, the term-- 
1991 Standards means the requirements set forth in the ADA Standards for Accessible Design, originally  published on July 26, 1991, and republished as Appendix D to 28 CFR part 36.  

2004 ADAAG means the requirements set forth in appendices B and D to 36 CFR part 1191 (2009).  

2010 Standards means the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, which consist of the 2004 ADAAG and the  requirements contained in § 35.151.  

Act means the Americans with Disabilities Act (Pub.L. 101–336, 104 Stat. 327, 42 U.S.C. 12101–12213 and 47  U.S.C. 225 and 611).  

Assistant Attorney General means the Assistant Attorney General, Civil Rights Division, United States  Department of Justice.

Auxiliary aids and services includes-- 

• Qualified interpreters on-site or through video remote interpreting (VRI) services; notetakers; real-time  computer-aided transcription services; written materials; exchange of written notes; telephone handset  amplifiers; assistive listening devices; assistive listening systems; telephones compatible with hearing aids;  closed caption decoders; open and closed captioning, including real-time captioning; voice, text, and video-based telecommunications products and systems, including text telephones (TTYs), videophones, and  captioned telephones, or equally effective telecommunications devices; videotext displays; accessible  electronic and information technology; or other effective methods of making aurally delivered information  available to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing;  
• Qualified readers; taped texts; audio recordings; Brailled materials and displays; screen reader software;  magnification software; optical readers; secondary auditory programs (SAP); large print materials;  accessible electronic and information technology; or other effective methods of making visually delivered  materials available to individuals who are blind or have low vision;  
• Acquisition or modification of equipment or devices; and  
• Other similar services and actions.  

Complete complaint means a written statement that contains the complainant’s name and address and  describes the public entity’s alleged discriminatory action in sufficient detail to inform the agency of the nature  and date of the alleged violation of this part. It shall be signed by the complainant or by someone authorized  to do so on his or her behalf. Complaints filed on behalf of classes or third parties shall describe or identify (by  name, if possible) the alleged victims of discrimination.  

Current illegal use of drugs means illegal use of drugs that occurred recently enough to justify a reasonable  belief that a person’s drug use is current or that continuing use is a real and ongoing problem.  

Designated agency means the Federal agency designated under subpart G of this part to oversee compliance  activities under this part for particular components of State and local governments. 

Direct threat means a significant risk to the health or safety of others that cannot be eliminated by a modification  of policies, practices or procedures, or by the provision of auxiliary aids or services as provided in § 35.139.  

Disability means, with respect to an individual, a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or  more of the major life activities of such individual; a record of such an impairment; or being regarded as having  such an impairment.  

• The phrase physical or mental impairment means-- 
  • Any physiological disorder or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting  one or more of the following body systems: Neurological, musculoskeletal, special sense organs,  respiratory (including speech organs), cardiovascular, reproductive, digestive, genitourinary, hemic  and lymphatic, skin, and endocrine;  
  • Any mental or psychological disorder such as mental retardation, organic brain syndrome,  emotional or mental illness, and specific learning disabilities.  
• The phrase physical or mental impairment includes, but is not limited to, such contagious and   noncontagious diseases and conditions as orthopedic, visual, speech and hearing impairments,   cerebral palsy, epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, cancer, heart disease, diabetes,   mental retardation, emotional illness, specific learning disabilities, HIV disease (whether   symptomatic or asymptomatic), tuberculosis, drug addiction, and alcoholism.  
• The phrase physical or mental impairment does not include homosexuality or bisexuality.  
• The phrase major life activities means functions such as caring for one’s self, performing manual  tasks,  walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.  
• The phrase has a record of such an impairment means has a history of, or has been misclassified as having,  a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.  
• The phrase is regarded as having an impairment means-- 
  • Has a physical or mental impairment that does not substantially limit major life activities but that is treated by a public entity as constituting such a limitation;  
  • Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activities only as a result of  the  attitudes of others toward such impairment; or  
  • Has none of the impairments defined in paragraph (1) of this definition but is treated by a public entity   as having such an impairment.  
• The term disability does not include-- 
  • Transvestism, transsexualism, pedophilia, exhibitionism, voyeurism, gender identity disorders not resulting from physical impairments, or other sexual behavior disorders;  
  • Compulsive gambling, kleptomania, or pyromania; or  
  • Psychoactive substance use disorders resulting from current illegal use of drugs.    

Drug means a controlled substance, as defined in schedules I through V of section 202 of the Controlled  Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 812).  

Existing facility means a facility in existence on any given date, without regard to whether the facility may also be considered newly constructed or altered under this part. 

Facility means all or any portion of buildings, structures, sites, complexes, equipment, rolling stock or other  conveyances, roads, walks, passageways, parking lots, or other real or personal property, including the site  where the building, property, structure, or equipment is located.  

Historic preservation programs means programs conducted by a public entity that have preservation of historic  properties as a primary purpose. 

Historic Properties means those properties that are listed or eligible for listing in the National Register of  Historic Places or properties designated as historic under State or local law.  

Housing at a place of education means housing operated by or on behalf of an elementary, secondary,  undergraduate, or postgraduate school, or other place of education, including dormitories, suites, apartments,  or other places of residence.

Illegal use of drugs means the use of one or more drugs, the possession or distribution of which is unlawful  under the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 812). The term illegal use of drugs does not include the use of a  drug taken under supervision by a licensed health care professional, or other uses authorized by the Controlled  Substances Act or other provisions of Federal law.  

Individual with a disability means a person who has a disability. The term individual with a disability does not  include an individual who is currently engaging in the illegal use of drugs, when the public entity acts on the  basis of such use.  

Other power-driven mobility device means any mobility device powered by batteries, fuel, or other engines-- whether or not designed primarily for use by individuals with mobility disabilities--that is used by individuals  with mobility disabilities for the purpose of locomotion, including golf cars, electronic personal assistance  mobility devices (EPAMDs), such as the Segway® PT, or any mobility device designed to operate in areas without  defined pedestrian routes, but that is not a wheelchair within the meaning of this section. This definition does  not apply to Federal wilderness areas; wheelchairs in such areas are defined in section 508(c)(2) of the ADA, 42  U.S.C. 12207(c)(2).  

Public entity means-- 

• Any State or local government;  
• Any department, agency, special purpose district, or other instrumentality of a State or States or local government; and  
• The National Railroad Passenger Corporation, and any commuter authority (as defined in section   103(8) of the Rail Passenger Service Act).  

Qualified individual with a disability means an individual with a disability who, with or without reasonable  modifications to rules, policies, or practices, the removal of architectural, communication, or transportation  barriers, or the provision of auxiliary aids and services, meets the essential eligibility requirements for the  receipt of services or the participation in programs or activities provided by a public entity.  

Qualified interpreter means an interpreter who, via a video remote interpreting (VRI) service or an on-site  appearance, is able to interpret effectively, accurately, and impartially, both receptively and expressively, using  any necessary specialized vocabulary. Qualified interpreters include, for example, sign language interpreters,  oral transliterators, and cued-language transliterators. 

Qualified reader means a person who is able to read effectively, accurately, and impartially using any necessary  specialized vocabulary.  

Section 504 means section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Pub.L. 93–112, 87 Stat. 394 (29 U.S.C. 794)),  as amended.  
Service animal means any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an  individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.  Other species of animals, whether wild or domestic, trained or untrained, are not service animals for the  purposes of this definition. The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the  individual’s disability. Examples of work or tasks include, but are not limited to, assisting individuals who are  blind or have low vision with navigation and other tasks, alerting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to  the presence of people or sounds, providing non-violent protection or rescue work, pulling a wheelchair,  assisting an individual during a seizure, alerting individuals to the presence of allergens, retrieving items such as  medicine or the telephone, providing physical support and assistance with balance and stability to individuals  with mobility disabilities, and helping persons with psychiatric and neurological disabilities by preventing or  interrupting impulsive or destructive behaviors. The crime deterrent effects of an animal’s presence and the  provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship do not constitute work or tasks for the  purposes of this definition.  

State means each of the several States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam,  American Samoa, the Virgin Islands, the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, and the Commonwealth of the  Northern Mariana Islands.  

Video remote interpreting (VRI) service means an interpreting service that uses video conference technology  over dedicated lines or wireless technology offering high-speed, wide-bandwidth video connection that delivers  high-quality video images as provided in § 35.160(d).  

Wheelchair means a manually-operated or power-driven device designed primarily for use by an individual with  a mobility disability for the main purpose of indoor or of both indoor and outdoor locomotion. This definition  does not apply to Federal wilderness areas; wheelchairs in such areas are defined in section 508(c)(2) of the  ADA, 42 U.S.C. 12207(c)(2).  

Credits  
[Order No. 3180–2010, 75 FR 56177, Sept. 15, 2010; 76 FR 13285, March 11, 2011]  
SOURCE: 56 FR 35716, July 26, 1991; 75 FR 56177, Sept. 15, 2010, unless otherwise noted. 

AUTHORITY: 5 U.S.C. 301; 28 U.S.C. 509, 510; 42 U.S.C. 12134.  

Effective: March 15, 2011 
28 C.F.R. § 35.136 
§ 35.136 Service animals. 

• General. Generally, a public entity shall modify its policies, practices, or procedures to permit the use of a  service animal by an individual with a disability.  
• Exceptions. A public entity may ask an individual with a disability to remove a service animal from the  premises if-- 
  • The animal is out of control and the animal’s handler does not take effective action to control it; or 
  • The animal is not housebroken. 
• If an animal is properly excluded. If a public entity properly excludes a service animal under § 35.136(b), it  shall give the individual with a disability the opportunity to participate in the service, program, or activity  without having the service animal on the premises.  
• Animal under handler’s control. A service animal shall be under the control of its handler. A service animal  shall have a harness, leash, or other tether, unless either the handler is unable because of a disability to use a  harness, leash, or other tether, or the use of a harness, leash, or other tether would interfere with the service  animal’s safe, effective performance of work or tasks, in which case the service animal must be otherwise under  the handler’s control (e.g., voice control, signals, or other effective means).  
• Care or supervision. A public entity is not responsible for the care or supervision of a service animal.  
• Inquiries. A public entity shall not ask about the nature or extent of a person’s disability, but may make two  inquiries to determine whether an animal qualifies as a service animal. A public entity may ask if the animal is  required because of a disability and what work or task the animal has been trained to perform. A public entity  shall not require documentation, such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a  service animal. Generally, a public entity may not make these inquiries about a service animal when it is readily  apparent that an animal is trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability (e.g., the dog is  observed guiding an individual who is blind or has low vision, pulling a person’s wheelchair, or providing  assistance with stability or balance to an individual with an observable mobility disability).  
• Access to areas of a public entity. Individuals with disabilities shall be permitted to be accompanied by their  service animals in all areas of a public entity’s facilities where members of the public, participants in services,  programs or activities, or invitees, as relevant, are allowed to go.  
• Surcharges. A public entity shall not ask or require an individual with a disability to pay a surcharge, even if  people accompanied by pets are required to pay fees, or to comply with other requirements generally not  applicable to people without pets. If a public entity normally charges individuals for the damage they cause, an  individual with a disability may be charged for damage caused by his or her service animal.  
• Miniature horses.  
  • Reasonable modifications. A public entity shall make reasonable modifications in policies, practices, or  procedures to permit the use of a miniature horse by an individual with a disability if the miniature horse  has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of the individual with a disability.
  • Assessment factors. In determining whether reasonable modifications in policies, practices, or  procedures can be made to allow a miniature horse into a specific facility, a public entity shall consider-- 
    • The type, size, and weight of the miniature horse and whether the facility can accommodate these  features;  
    • Whether the handler has sufficient control of the miniature horse;  
    • Whether the miniature horse is housebroken; and  
    • Whether the miniature horse’s presence in a specific facility compromises legitimate safety requirements that are necessary for safe operation.  
• Other requirements. Paragraphs 35.136(c) through (h) of this section, which apply to service animals, shall  also apply to miniature horses.  

Credits:  
[Order No. 3180–2010, 75 FR 56178, Sept. 15, 2010; 76 FR 13285, March 11, 2011]  
SOURCE: 56 FR 35716, July 26, 1991; 75 FR 56177, Sept. 15, 2010, unless otherwise noted. 
AUTHORITY: 5 U.S.C. 301; 28 U.S.C. 509, 510; 42 U.S.C. 12134. 

Current through January 17, 2013; 78 FR 4014

Adoption Date: 06/06/2006, Revised: 06/08/2009; 08/12/2013; 07/11/2022