Policy 100: Legal Status of the School District                

Iowa law authorizes the creation of a Common Schools System. As part of this Common Schools System, this school district is a school corporation created and organized under Iowa law. This school district is known as the South Tama County Community School District. 

This school corporation is located in Tama County, and its affairs are conducted by elected school officials, the South Tama County Community School District Board of Directors. This school corporation has exclusive jurisdiction over school matters in the territory of the school district. 

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 274.1, .2, .6, .7; 279.8; 594A. 

 

I.C. Iowa Code Description 

Iowa Code § 274.1 Legal Status 

Iowa Code § 274.6 School Districts - Names 

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

Iowa Code § 280.12 Uniform School Requirements - School Improvement Advisory Committee Iowa Code § 594A School Corporations Cross References Code Description 

 

Approved: 6/21/22

Reviewed: 6/21/22

Revised: 6/21/22

 

Policy 101: Educational Philosophy of the School District             

As a school corporation of Iowa, the School District, acting through its board of directors, is dedicated to promoting an equal opportunity for a quality public education to its students. The board’s ability may be limited by the school district's ability and willingness to furnish financial support in cooperation with student’s parents and school district community. The board is also dedicated to providing the opportunity to develop a healthy social, intellectual, emotional, and physical self-concept in a learning environment that provides guidance to, and encourages critical thinking in, the students for a lifetime. 

The board endeavors, through the dedication of the school district's resources, to encourage students, who come to the school district from a variety of backgrounds, to look forward to the time when they will have jobs, homes, families, places in the school district community, and attain recognition as individuals. In order to achieve this goal, the board will seek qualified employees dedicated to development of their professional skills for the betterment of the education program and for the expertise for educational productivity. 

Instruction and curriculum are the key elements of a public education. Critical thinking and problem solving skills that will assist the students' preparation for life is instructed as part of a sequentially coordinated curriculum. The school district strives to prepare students for employment, to discover and nurture creative talent and to prepare them to meet and cope with social change in an atmosphere conducive to learning. 

The support and involvement of the home and the school district community are essential to achieve educational excellence in the school district. The school district strives to maintain an active relationship with the home and the school district community to create within the students an awareness of dignity and worth of the individual, civic responsibility and respect for authority. 

The Board believes that excellence in education means success for all students. It is the philosophy of the district to identify student outcomes, to organize the instructional program to help students achieve those outcomes, and to assess attainment of those outcomes. The Board believes that students must be active participants in the learning process. That students helping students is a powerful educational force. That students need to apply the knowledge and skills they are learning. That students must think globally, but act locally. And that students are responsible for learning while teachers help to make it happen. 

The Board believes that students of today are in preparation for the future and will: acquire, comprehend, and apply knowledge which will be necessary for fulfillment and achievement in life; develop and establish skills, attitudes and concepts which will enable the student to become a life-long learner, initiate and sustain relationships based on respect and a sense of mutual responsibility, adapt to and create change, and build an awareness of and confidence in self. 

The Board believes that students will use acquired skills through a variety of settings for assessment including: writing samples, observations in realistic situations, self-assessment, standardized tests, individual and group demonstrations, and teacher-made tests over content. The Board believes that students will show progress through assessment which: will be an important part of everyday learning, involves student performances that demonstrate progress toward specific goals, clearly states expectations to each student, and creates a picture of what each student knows, what each student can do, and what each student can be. 

The Board believes that students will possess knowledge, skills, and abilities in Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Math, Reading, Fine Arts, Motor Skills, Guidance, Special Education, Vocational, and Communication. For all these areas, the teachers and administrators are working to: identify the most critical skills each child needs to acquire, identify the level at which each child learns the skills and abilities, identify the areas of knowledge essential for each child to know, create a curriculum that meets all of the State of Iowa guidelines, and create a curriculum that allows each student at STC to develop to their fullest potential. 

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 256.11 

I.C. Iowa Code Description Iowa Code § 256.11 DE - Educational Standards 

 

Approved: 6/21/22

Reviewed: 6/21/22

Revised: 6/21/22

 

 

Policy 102: Equal Educational Opportunity

It is the goal of the board to develop a healthy social, intellectual, emotional, and physical self-concept in the students enrolled in the school district.  Each student attending school will have the opportunity to use its education program and services as a means for self-improvement and individual growth.  In so doing, the students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that assures each student the same educational opportunity.

The Community School District does not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices.  The belief in equal educational opportunity serves as a guide for the board and employees in making decisions relating to school district facilities, employment, selection of educational materials, equipment, curriculum, and regulations affecting students. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact Samantha Peska, Equity Coordinator, 1702 Harding Street, Tama, Iowa 52339, (641)484-4811, speska@s-tama.k12.ia.us.

Board policies, rules and regulations affect students while they are on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district.

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

Inquiries by students regarding compliance with equal educational opportunity and affirmative action laws and policies, including but not limited to complaints of discrimination, are directed to the Affirmative Action Coordinator by writing to the Affirmative Action Coordinator, STC Community School District,Samantha Peska, Equity Coordinator, 1702 Harding Street, Tama, Iowa 52339, (641)484-4811, speska@s-tama.k12.ia.us.

Inquiries by students regarding compliance with equal educational opportunity and affirmative action laws and policies, including but not limited to complaints of discrimination, may also be directed in writing to the Director of the Region VII office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, John C. Kluczynski Federal Building, 230 S. Dearborn St., 37th Floor, Chicago, IL, 60604 (312) 730-1560, fax (312) 730-1576 OCR.Chicago@ed.gov, the Iowa Civil Rights Commissioner, https://icrc.iowa.gov, (515) 281-4121 or the Iowa Dept. of Education, Grimes State Office Bldg., Des Moines, IA 50319. (515) 281-5294.  This inquiry or complaint to the federal or state office may be done instead of, or in addition to, an inquiry or complaint at the local level.

 

This is a mandatory policy. 

 

  Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. §§ 1221 et seq.   20 U.S.C. §§ 1681 et seq.  20 U.S.C. §§ 1701 et seq.  29 U.S.C. § 206 et seq.  29 U.S.C. § 794  42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d and 2000e.  42 U.S.C. §§ 12101 et seq.  34 C.F.R. Pt. 100. 34 C.F.R. Pt. 104. Iowa Code §§ 216.6; 216.9; 256.11; 280.3. 281 I.A.C. 12.

 

I.C. Iowa Code	Description
Iowa Code § 216.6	Unfair Employment Practices
Iowa Code § 216.9	Unfair/Discriminatory Practices
Iowa Code § 256.11	DE - Educational Standards
Iowa Code § 280.3	Education Program - Attendance Center Requirements

I.A.C. Iowa Administrative Code	Description
281 I.A.C. 12	General Accreditation Standards

U.S.C. - United States Code	Description
20 U.S.C. §§ 1221	Education - FERPA - General Provisions
20 U.S.C. §§ 1681	Education - Sex
20 U.S.C. §§ 1701	Education - EEO
29 U.S.C. § 206	Labor - Minimum Wage
29 U.S.C. §§ 794	Labor - Vocation Rehab Rights
42 U.S.C. § 12101	Public Health - Equal Opportunity - Disabilities
42 U.S.C. § 2000d	Public Health - Civil Rights - Federally Programs
42 U.S.C. § 2000e	Public Health - EEO Civil Rights - Definitions

C.F.R. - Code of Federal Regulations	Description
34 C.F.R. Pt. 100	Education - Nondiscrimination for Programs
34 C.F.R. Pt. 104	Education - Nondiscrimination on Basis of Handicap

Cross References

Code	Description
101	Educational Philosophy of the School District
104	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy
104-R(1)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Investigation Procedures
104-E(1)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Complaint Form
104-E(2)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Witness Disclosure Form
104-E(3)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Disposition of Complaint Form
401.01	Equal Employment Opportunity
502.03	Student Expression and Student Publications Code
502.03-R(1)	Student Expression and Student Publications Code - Regulation
506.01	Education Records Access
506.01-R(1)	Education Records Access - Regulation
506.01-E(1)	Education Records Access - Request of Nonparent for Examination or Copies of Education Records
506.01-E(2)	Education Records Access - Authorization for Release of Education Records
506.01-E(3)	Education Records Access - Request for Hearing on Correction of Education Records
506.01-E(4)	Education Records Access - Request for Examination of Education Records
506.01-E(5)	Education Records Access - Notification of Transfer of Education Records
506.01-E(6)	Education Records Access - Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of a Subpoena
506.01-E(7)	Education Records Access - Juvenile Justice Agency Information Sharing Agreement
506.01-E(8)	Education Records Access - Annual Notice
603.01	Basic Instruction Program
603.04	Multicultural/Gender Fair Education
802.05	Buildings & Sites Adaptation for Persons with Disabilities

 

Approved: August 1, 2022

Reviewed:August 1, 2022

Revised: August 1, 2022

102 E1: Equal Educational Opportunity - Annual Notice of Nondiscrimination

 

The South Tama County Community School District offers career and technical programs in the following areas of study:

1) Agricultural Sciences 

2) Business 

3) Industrial Technology 

 

It is the policy of the Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact Samantha Peska, Equity Coordinator, 1702 Harding Street, Tama, IA 52339, (641) 484-4811, speska@s-tama.k12.ia.us. 

 

Approved: January 15, 2024

Reviewed: January 15, 2024

Revised: January 15, 2024

102. E2 - Equal Educational Opportunity - Continuous Notice of Nondiscrimination

It is the policy of the Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact Samantha Peska, Equity Coordinator, 1702 Harding Street, 641-484-4811, speska@s-tama.k12.ia.us.

 

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I.C. Iowa Code	Description
Iowa Code § 216.6	Unfair Employment Practices
Iowa Code § 216.9	Unfair/Discriminatory Practices
Iowa Code § 256.11	DE - Educational Standards
Iowa Code § 280.3	Education Program - Attendance Center Requirements

I.A.C. Iowa Administrative Code	Description
281 I.A.C. 12	General Accreditation Standards

U.S.C. - United States Code	Description
20 U.S.C. §§ 1221	Education - FERPA - General Provisions
20 U.S.C. §§ 1681	Education - Sex
20 U.S.C. §§ 1701	Education - EEO
29 U.S.C. § 206	Labor - Minimum Wage
29 U.S.C. §§ 794	Labor - Vocation Rehab Rights
42 U.S.C. § 12101	Public Health - Equal Opportunity - Disabilities
42 U.S.C. § 2000d	Public Health - Civil Rights - Federally Programs
42 U.S.C. § 2000e	Public Health - EEO Civil Rights - Definitions

C.F.R. - Code of Federal Regulations	Description
34 C.F.R. Pt. 100	Education - Nondiscrimination for Programs
34 C.F.R. Pt. 104	Education - Nondiscrimination on Basis of Handicap

Cross References

Code	Description
101	Educational Philosophy of the School District
104	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy
104-R(1)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Investigation Procedures
104-E(1)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Complaint Form
104-E(2)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Witness Disclosure Form
104-E(3)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Disposition of Complaint Form
401.01	Equal Employment Opportunity
502.03	Student Expression and Student Publications Code
502.03-R(1)	Student Expression and Student Publications Code - Regulation
506.01	Education Records Access
506.01-R(1)	Education Records Access - Regulation
506.01-E(1)	Education Records Access - Request of Nonparent for Examination or Copies of Education Records
506.01-E(2)	Education Records Access - Authorization for Release of Education Records
506.01-E(3)	Education Records Access - Request for Hearing on Correction of Education Records
506.01-E(4)	Education Records Access - Request for Examination of Education Records
506.01-E(5)	Education Records Access - Notification of Transfer of Education Records
506.01-E(6)	Education Records Access - Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of a Subpoena
506.01-E(7)	Education Records Access - Juvenile Justice Agency Information Sharing Agreement
506.01-E(8)	Education Records Access - Annual Notice
603.01	Basic Instruction Program
603.04	Multicultural/Gender Fair Education
802.05	Buildings & Sites Adaptation for Persons with Disabilities

 

Approved: August 1, 2022

Reviewed: August 1, 2022

Revised: August 1, 2022

102 E3 - Equal Educational Opportunity - Notice of Section 504 Student and Parental Rights

The Community School District does not discriminate in its educational programs and activities on the basis of a student's disability. It has been determined that your child has a qualifying disability for which accommodations may need to be made to meet his or her individual needs as adequately as the needs of other students. As a parent, you have the right to the following:

• Participation of your child in school district programs and activities, including extracurricular programs and activities, to the maximum extent appropriate, free of discrimination based upon the student's disability and at the same level as students without disabilities;

• Receipt of free educational services to the extent they are provided students without disabilities:

• Receipt of information about your child and your child's educational programs and activities in your native language;

• Notice of identification of your child as having a qualifying disability for which accommodations may need to be made and notice prior to evaluation and placement of your child and right to periodically request a re-evaluation of your child;

• Inspect and review your child's educational records including a right to copy those records for a reasonable fee; you also have a right to ask the school district to amend your child's educational records if you feel the information in the records is misleading or inaccurate; should the school district refuse to amend the records, you have a right to a hearing and to place an explanatory letter in your child's file explaining why you feel the records are misleading or inaccurate; and

• Hearing before an impartial hearing officer if you disagree with your child's evaluation or placement; you have a right to counsel at the hearing and have the decision of the impartial hearing officer reviewed.

It is the policy of the Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact Samantha Peska, Equity Coordinator, 1702 Harding Street, Tama, IA 52339, (641) 484-4811, speska@s-tama.k12.ia.us

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I.C. Iowa Code	Description
Iowa Code § 216.6	Unfair Employment Practices
Iowa Code § 216.9	Unfair/Discriminatory Practices
Iowa Code § 256.11	DE - Educational Standards
Iowa Code § 280.3	Education Program - Attendance Center Requirements

I.A.C. Iowa Administrative Code	Description
281 I.A.C. 12	General Accreditation Standards

U.S.C. - United States Code	Description
20 U.S.C. §§ 1221	Education - FERPA - General Provisions
20 U.S.C. §§ 1681	Education - Sex
20 U.S.C. §§ 1701	Education - EEO
29 U.S.C. § 206	Labor - Minimum Wage
29 U.S.C. §§ 794	Labor - Vocation Rehab Rights
42 U.S.C. § 12101	Public Health - Equal Opportunity - Disabilities
42 U.S.C. § 2000d	Public Health - Civil Rights - Federally Programs
42 U.S.C. § 2000e	Public Health - EEO Civil Rights - Definitions

C.F.R. - Code of Federal Regulations	Description
34 C.F.R. Pt. 100	Education - Nondiscrimination for Programs
34 C.F.R. Pt. 104	Education - Nondiscrimination on Basis of Handicap

Cross References

Code	Description
101	Educational Philosophy of the School District
104	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy
104-R(1)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Investigation Procedures
104-E(1)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Complaint Form
104-E(2)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Witness Disclosure Form
104-E(3)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Disposition of Complaint Form
401.01	Equal Employment Opportunity
502.03	Student Expression and Student Publications Code
502.03-R(1)	Student Expression and Student Publications Code - Regulation
506.01	Education Records Access
506.01-R(1)	Education Records Access - Regulation
506.01-E(1)	Education Records Access - Request of Nonparent for Examination or Copies of Education Records
506.01-E(2)	Education Records Access - Authorization for Release of Education Records
506.01-E(3)	Education Records Access - Request for Hearing on Correction of Education Records
506.01-E(4)	Education Records Access - Request for Examination of Education Records
506.01-E(5)	Education Records Access - Notification of Transfer of Education Records
506.01-E(6)	Education Records Access - Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of a Subpoena
506.01-E(7)	Education Records Access - Juvenile Justice Agency Information Sharing Agreement
506.01-E(8)	Education Records Access - Annual Notice
603.01	Basic Instruction Program
603.04	Multicultural/Gender Fair Education
802.05	Buildings & Sites Adaptation for Persons with Disabilities

 

Approved: August 1, 2022

Reviewed: August 1, 2022

Revised: August 1, 2022

102 R1- Equal Education Opportunity - Grievance Procedures

It is the policy of the Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact,Samantha Peska, Equity Coordinator, 1702 Harding Street, 641-484-4811, speska@s-tama.k12.ia.us.

Students, parents of students, employees, and applicants for employment in the school district have the right to file a formal complaint alleging discrimination. The district has policies and procedures in place to identify and investigate complaints alleging discrimination. If appropriate, the district will take steps to prevent the recurrence of discrimination and to correct its discriminatory effects on the Complainant and others.

A Complainant may attempt to resolve the problem informally by discussing the matter with a building principal or a direct supervisor. However, the Complainant has the right to end the informal process at any time and pursue the formal grievance procedures outlined below. Use of the informal or formal grievance procedure is not a prerequisite to the pursuit of other remedies. Please note that informal processes and procedures are not to be used in certain circumstances (e.g., sexual harassment and sexual assault). 

 

Filing a Complaint

A Complainant who wishes to avail himself/herself of this grievance procedure may do so by filing a complaint with the equity coordinator(s). An alternate will be designated in the event it is claimed that the equity coordinator or superintendent committed the alleged discrimination or some other conflict of interest exists. Complaints shall be filed within 180 days of the event giving rise to the complaint or from the date the Complainant could reasonably become aware of such occurrence. The Complainant will state the nature of the complaint and the remedy requested. The equity coordinator(s) shall assist the Complainant as needed. 

Investigation 

Within 15 working days, the equity coordinator will begin the investigation of the complaint or appoint a qualified person to undertake the investigation (hereinafter “equity coordinator”).  If the Complainant is under 18 years of age, the equity coordinator shall notify his or her parent(s)/guardian(s) that they may attend investigatory meetings in which the Complainant is involved. The complaint and identity of the Complainant, Respondent, or witnesses will only be disclosed as reasonably necessary in connection with the investigation or as required by law or policy. The investigation may include, but is not limited to the following: 

• A request for the Complainant to provide a written statement regarding the nature of the complaint; 

• A request for the individual named in the complaint to provide a written statement; 

• A request for witnesses identified during the course of the investigation to provide a written statement; 

• Interviews of the Complainant, Respondent, or witnesses; 

• An opportunity to present witnesses or other relevant information; and 

• Review and collection of documentation or information deemed relevant to the investigation. 

Within 60 working days, the equity coordinator shall complete the investigation and issue a report with respect to the findings. 

The equity coordinator shall notify the Complainant and Respondent of the decision within 5 working days of completing the written report. Notification shall be by U.S. mail, first class. 

Decision and Appeal

The complaint is closed after the equity coordinator has issued the report, unless within 10 working days after receiving the decision, either party appeals the decision to the superintendent by making a written request detailing why he/she believes the decision should be reconsidered. The equity coordinator shall promptly forward all materials relative to the complaint and appeal to the superintendent. Within 30 working days, the superintendent shall affirm, reverse, amend the decision, or direct the equity coordinator to gather additional information. The superintendent shall notify the Complainant, Respondent, and the equity coordinator of the decision within 5 working days of the decision. Notification shall be by U.S. mail, first class. 

 

The decision of the superintendent shall be final. 

The decision of the superintendent in no way prejudices a party from seeking redress through state or federal agencies as provided by in law. 

This policy and procedures are to be used for complaints of discrimination, in lieu of any other general complaint policies or procedures that may be available. 

If any of the stated time frames cannot be met by the district, the district will notify the parties and pursue completion as promptly as possible. 

Retaliation against any person, because the person has filed a complaint or assisted or participated in an investigation, is prohibited. Persons found to have engaged in retaliation shall be subject to discipline by appropriate measures. 

 

 

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I.C. Iowa Code	Description
Iowa Code § 216.6	Unfair Employment Practices
Iowa Code § 216.9	Unfair/Discriminatory Practices
Iowa Code § 256.11	DE - Educational Standards
Iowa Code § 280.3	Education Program - Attendance Center Requirements

I.A.C. Iowa Administrative Code	Description
281 I.A.C. 12	General Accreditation Standards

U.S.C. - United States Code	Description
20 U.S.C. §§ 1221	Education - FERPA - General Provisions
20 U.S.C. §§ 1681	Education - Sex
20 U.S.C. §§ 1701	Education - EEO
29 U.S.C. § 206	Labor - Minimum Wage
29 U.S.C. §§ 794	Labor - Vocation Rehab Rights
42 U.S.C. § 12101	Public Health - Equal Opportunity - Disabilities
42 U.S.C. § 2000d	Public Health - Civil Rights - Federally Programs
42 U.S.C. § 2000e	Public Health - EEO Civil Rights - Definitions

C.F.R. - Code of Federal Regulations	Description
34 C.F.R. Pt. 100	Education - Nondiscrimination for Programs
34 C.F.R. Pt. 104	Education - Nondiscrimination on Basis of Handicap

Cross References

Code	Description
101	Educational Philosophy of the School District
104	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy
104-R(1)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Investigation Procedures
104-E(1)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Complaint Form
104-E(2)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Witness Disclosure Form
104-E(3)	Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Disposition of Complaint Form
401.01	Equal Employment Opportunity
502.03	Student Expression and Student Publications Code
502.03-R(1)	Student Expression and Student Publications Code - Regulation
506.01	Education Records Access
506.01-R(1)	Education Records Access - Regulation
506.01-E(1)	Education Records Access - Request of Nonparent for Examination or Copies of Education Records
506.01-E(2)	Education Records Access - Authorization for Release of Education Records
506.01-E(3)	Education Records Access - Request for Hearing on Correction of Education Records
506.01-E(4)	Education Records Access - Request for Examination of Education Records
506.01-E(5)	Education Records Access - Notification of Transfer of Education Records
506.01-E(6)	Education Records Access - Letter to Parent Regarding Receipt of a Subpoena
506.01-E(7)	Education Records Access - Juvenile Justice Agency Information Sharing Agreement
506.01-E(8)	Education Records Access - Annual Notice
603.01	Basic Instruction Program
603.04	Multicultural/Gender Fair Education
802.05	Buildings & Sites Adaptation for Persons with Disabilities

 

Approved: August 1, 2022

Reviewed: August 1, 2022

Revised: August 1, 2022

103.00  - Long Range Needs Assessment

Long-range needs assessment enables the school district to analyze assessment data, get feedback from the community about its expectation of students and determine how well students are meeting student learning goals. The board will conduct ongoing and in-depth needs assessment, soliciting information from business, labor, industry, higher education and community members, regarding their expectations for adequate student preparation. 

In conjunction with the in-depth needs assessment of the school district, the board will authorize the appointment of a committee, representing administrators, employees, parents, students and community members, to make recommendations and assist the board in determining the priorities of the school district in addition to the basic skills areas of the education program.

South Tama County will utilize our School Improvement Advisory Council as our primary source of collaboration with community members and staff to assist with the prioritization of school district needs and programs.  Furthermore, the use of surveys will assist in the process of gathering feedback as needed from the community as well as the staff.  The staff will place an emphasis on using the annual Iowa Performance Profile and our work associated with the Every Student Succeeds Act to further guide our work.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to ensure the school district community is informed of students' progress on state and locally determined indicators. The superintendent will report annually to the board about the means used to keep the community informed.

As a result of the board and committee's work, the board will determine major educational needs and rank them in priority order; develop long-range goals and plans to meet the educational needs; establish and implement short-range and intermediate-range plans to meet the goals and to attain the desired levels of student performance; evaluate progress toward meeting the goals and maintain a record of progress under the plan that includes reports of student performance and results of school improvement projects; and annually report the school district's progress made under the plan to the committee, community and Iowa Department of Education.

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 21; 256.7; 280.12. 281 I.A.C. 12.8(1)(b).

 

 

 

Approved: October 14, 2024

Reviewed: October 14, 2024

Revised: February 6, 2023

Policy 104 - Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy 

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Retaliation Prohibited

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

 

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

 

Definitions

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

 

• “Electronic” means any communication involving the transmission of information by wire, radio, optic cable, electromagnetic, or other similar means. “Electronic” includes but is not limited to communication via electronic mail, internet-based communications, pager service, cell phones, and electronic text messaging. 

• “Harassment” and “bullying” mean any repeated or potentially repeated electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or other ongoing conduct toward an individual based on any trait or characteristic of the individual which creates an objectively hostile school environment that meets one or more of the following conditions:

1. Places the individual in reasonable fear of harm to the individual’s person or property. 

2. Has a substantial detrimental effect on the individual’s physical or mental health. 

3. Has the effect of substantially interfering with the individual’s academic or career performance. Has the effect of substantially interfering with the individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school. 

 

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

• “Volunteer” means an individual who has regular, significant contact with students. 

 

Publication of Policy

The board will annually publish this policy. The policy may be publicized by the following means:

• Inclusion in the student handbook, 

• Inclusion in the employee handbook

• Inclusion in the registration materials

• Inclusion on the school or school district’s web site,

 

 

Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. §§ 1221-1234i. 

29 U.S.C. § 794. 

42 U.S.C. §§ 2000d-2000d-7. 

42 U.S.C. §§ 12101 2et. seq. 

Iowa Code §§ 216.9; 280.28; 280.3. 

281 I.A.C. 12.3(6). 

Morse v. Frederick, 551 U.S. 393 (2007)

 

Case Law References Description

Morse v. Frederick 551 U.S. 393 (2007)

 

Cross References Description

102 Equal Educational Opportunity -

 

 

Approved: August 7, 2023

Reviewed: August 7, 2023

Revised: August 7, 2023

 

Policy 104-E(1): Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy

 

COMPLAINT FORM

 

Date of complaint: ____________________________________________

 

Name of Complainant: ____________________________________________

 

Are you filling out this form for yourself or someone else (please identify the individual if you are

submitting on behalf of someone else):

 

____________________________________________________________________________

 

Who or what entity do you believe discriminated against, harassed, or bullied you (or someone else)?

 

____________________________________________________________________________

 

Date and place of alleged incident(s):

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 

Names of any witnesses (if any):

____________________________________________________________________________

 

Nature of discrimination, harassment, or bullying alleged (check all that apply):

 

	Age		Physical Attribute		Sex
	Disability		Physical/Mental Ability		Sexual Orientation
	Familial Status		Political Belief		Socio-economic Background
	Gender Identity		Political Party Preference		Other – Please Specify:
	Marital Status		Race/Color
	National Origin/Ethnic Background/Ancestry		Religion/Creed

 

In the space below, please describe what happened and why you believe that you or someone else has been discriminated against, harassed, or bullied. Please be as specific as possible and attach additional pages if necessary.

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

 

Signature: _____________________________________ Date:__________________________

 

 

Case Law References Description

Morse v. Frederick 551 U.S. 393 (2007)

 

 

 

Approved: April 3, 2023

Reviewed: April 3, 2023

Revised: April 3, 2023

 

Policy 104-E(2): Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy

 

WITNESS DISCLOSURE FORM

 

Name of Witness: _____________________________________________________

 

Date of interview: _____________________________________________________

 

Date of initial complaint: _______________________________________________

 

Name of Complainant (include whether the Complainant is a student or employee):

 

______________________________________________________________________

 

Date and place of alleged incident(s):

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Nature of discrimination, harassment, or bullying alleged (check all that apply):

 

	Age		Physical Attribute		Sex
	Disability		Physical/Mental Ability		Sexual Orientation
	Familial Status		Political Belief		Socio-economic Background
	Gender Identity		Political Party Preference		Other – Please Specify:
	Marital Status		Race/Color
	National Origin/Ethnic Background/Ancestry		Religion/Creed

 

Description of incident witnessed: _______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 

Additional information: _______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

 

Signature: _____________________________________ Date:__________________________

 

 

Case Law References Description

Morse v. Frederick 551 U.S. 393 (2007)

 

Approved: April 3, 2023

Reviewed: April 3, 2023

Revised: April 3, 2023

 

Policy 104-E(3): Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy

 

Disposition of Complaint Form

 

Date: _____________________________________________________

 

Date of initial complaint: _____________________________________________________

 

Name of Complainant (include whether the Complainant is a student or employee):

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 

Date and place of alleged incident(s):

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 

Name of Respondent (include whether the Respondent is a student or employee):

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 

Nature of discrimination, harassment, or bullying alleged (check all that apply):

 

	Age		Physical Attribute		Sex
	Disability		Physical/Mental Ability		Sexual Orientation
	Familial Status		Political Belief		Socio-economic Background
	Gender Identity		Political Party Preference		Other – Please Specify:
	Marital Status		Race/Color
	National Origin/Ethnic Background/Ancestry		Religion/Creed

 

Summary of Investigation: _______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

 

I agree that all of the information on this form is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge.

 

Signature: _____________________________________ Date:__________________________

 

 

Case Law References Description

Morse v. Frederick 551 U.S. 393 (2007)

 

 

Approved: April 3, 2023

Reviewed: April 3, 2023

Revised: April 3, 2023

 

Policy 104-R(1): Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Investigation Procedures 

 

Filing a Complaint

An individual who believes that the individual has been harassed or bullied may file a complaint with the

superintendent or superintendent’s designee. The complaint form is available here. An alternate investigator will be designated in the event it is claimed that the superintendent or superintendent’s designee committed the alleged bullying or harassment or some other conflict of interest exists. Complaints shall be filed within [state number of days - 180] of the event giving rise to the complaint or from the date the Complainant could reasonably become aware of such occurrence. The Complainant will state the nature of the complaint and the remedy requested. The Complainant shall receive assistance as needed.

 

Investigation

The school district will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of bullying or harassment upon receipt of a written complaint. The Director of Student Services, Samantha Peska (hereinafter “Investigator”) will be responsible for handling all complaints alleging bullying or harassment.

 

The investigation may include, but is not limited to the following:

• Interviews with the Complainant and the individual named in the complaint (“Respondent”)

• A request for the Complainant to provide a written statement regarding the nature of the complaint;

• A request for the Respondent to provide a written statement;

• Interviews with witnesses identified during the course of the investigation;

• A request for witnesses identified during the course of the investigation to provide a written statement; and

• Review and collection of documentation or information deemed relevant to the investigation. 

 

The Investigator shall consider the totality of circumstances presented in determining whether conduct objectively constitutes bullying or harassment as defined in Board policy. Upon completion of the investigation, the Investigator shall issue a report with respect to the findings, and provide a copy of the report to the appropriate building principal or Superintendent if the investigation involves the building principal.

 

The complaint and identity of the Complainant, Respondent, or witnesses will only be disclosed as reasonably necessary in connection with the investigation or as required by law or policy. Similarly, evidence uncovered in the investigation shall be kept confidential to the extent reasonably possible. 

 

Additional suggestions for administrative procedures regarding this policy include:

• Organizing training programs for students, school employees, and volunteers regarding how to recognize bullying and harassing behavior and what to do if this behavior is witnessed; and

• Developing a process for evaluating the effectiveness of this policy in reducing bullying and harassing behavior.

 

Decision

The investigator, building principal or superintendent, depending on the individuals involved, shall inform the Complainant and the accused about the outcome of the investigation. If, after an investigation, a student is found to be in violation of the policy, the student shall be disciplined by appropriate measures, which may include suspension and expulsion. If after an investigation a school employee is found to be in violation of this policy, the employee shall be disciplined by appropriate measures, which may include termination. If after an investigation a school volunteer is found to be in violation of this policy, the volunteer shall be subject to appropriate measures, which may include exclusion from school grounds.

Individuals who knowingly file false bullying and/or harassment complaints and any person who gives false statements in an investigation may be subject to discipline by appropriate measures, as shall any person who is found to have retaliated against another in violation of this policy. Any student found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, suspension and expulsion. Any school employee found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, termination of employment. Any school volunteer found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, exclusion from school grounds. 

 

Case Law References Description

Morse v. Frederick 551 U.S. 393 (2007)

 

Approved: August 7, 2023

Reviewed: August 7, 2023

Revised: August 7, 2023

106 - Title IX - Discrimination and Harassment Based on Sex Prohibited

 

In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, the Community School District prohibits sex discrimination, including sexual harassment as defined by the regulations implementing Title IX (34 C.F.R. § 106.30), against any individual participating in any education program or activity of the District. This prohibition on discrimination applies to students, employees, and applicants for employment. 

The Board authorizes the Superintendent to adopt procedures for any individual to report sexual harassment to the District’s Title IX Coordinator, for the provision of supportive measures to anyone who has been subjected to sexual harassment whether or not they proceed with a formal complaint under those procedures, and for the investigation and resolution of such complaints, as required by Title IX. This Title IX grievance process shall be used to respond to all complaints of sexual harassment that fall within the scope of Title IX. For complaints of sexual harassment that do not fall within the scope of Title IX, the District may still offer supportive measures to the subject of such conduct and shall apply any other policy or procedure applicable to the alleged conduct. 

Any individual with questions about the District’s Title IX policy and procedures, or who would like to make a report or file a formal complaint of sex discrimination or sexual harassment may contact the District’s designated Title Coordinator, Samantha Peska, Director of Student Services, 1702 Harding Street, Tama, Iowa 52339, (641) 484-4811, speska@s-tama.k12.ia.us.

 

Retaliation against a person who made a report or complaint of sexual harassment, assisted, or participated in any manner in an investigation or resolution of a sexual harassment report or complaint is strictly prohibited. Retaliation includes threats, coercion, discrimination, intimidation, reprisals, and/or adverse actions related to employment or education. Any individual who believed they have been retaliated against in violation of this Policy should immediately contact the District’s Title IX Coordinator. 

 

NOTE: This is a mandatory policy.

 

Legal Reference: 20 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq. 34 C.F.R. § 106 et seq.

U.S.C. - United States Code References Description

20 U.S.C. §§ 1681 Education - Sex

C.F.R. - Code of Federal Regulations References Description

34 C.F.R. 106 Education - Nondiscrimination Based on Sex

 

Approved: April 15, 2024

Reviewed: April 15, 2024

Revised: April 15, 2024