Policy Name:           Entrance Requirements/Birth Certificate

Adoption:                 November, 1995

Revised:                     February, 2010

Reviewed:

Elementary students entering School District 14 for the first time are to present a birth certificate or other legal means of determining age and/or grade.

To enter kindergarten in School District 14, a student must be five years of age on or before October 1.  A student not meeting the above age requirements may also be allowed to enroll in kindergarten if he or she has been enrolled in another kindergarten in a public school district or in an approved private kindergarten during the same year.

To enter first grade in School District 14, a child must be six years of age on or before October 1 or have completed kindergarten in another public school district or in a private kindergarten approved by the Superintendent and building principal.

School District 14 reserves the right to determine the proper placement of any kindergarten or first grade student transferring from another school based on the student’s ability to meet the standards of our program at these levels.

MANITOU SPRINGS SCHOOL DISTRICT #14

Acceptable Use Policy (AUP)

Access to electronic information resources, including the Internet and School District 14 local and wide area networks, is a privilege with responsibilities for the user. If a School District 14 user violates any of these guidelines, his or her access privileges may be revoked and school disciplinary action could be taken. The smooth operation of all networks relies upon the proper conduct of the end user who must adhere to strict guidelines. In general, these guidelines require the effective, efficient, ethical, moral and legal utilization of resources. The following regulations are provided to define the responsibility of any Manitou Springs District #14 user.

1. Use of electronic devices must be supportive of educational objectives and consistent with the mission and curriculum of Manitou Springs District #14. 2. Transmission of any material in violation of any local, federal and state laws is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to: copyrighted material, licensed material and threatening or obscene material. 3. Intentional or unintentional use of computing resources to access or process, proxy sites, pornographic material, inappropriate text or graphic files, or files dangerous to the integrity of the network is strictly prohibited. 4. Software and/or services for computer access must be approved by District #14. 5. Use of computing resources for unauthorized commercial activities, product advertisement or religious or political lobbing is prohibited. 6. Users are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. 7. Manitou Springs School District #14 makes no guarantees of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. Manitou Springs School District 14 will not be responsible for any losses suffered. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non deliveries, mis-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by negligence or by user’s errors or omissions. 8. Users acknowledge that Manitou Springs School District 14 is not responsible for actions of any user nor character or inaccuracy of any information accessed. Use of any information obtained via the Internet is at the user’s risk. 9. Users will be held personally and financially responsible for malicious or intentional damage done to network software, data, user accounts, hardware and/or unauthorized costs incurred. 10. Files stored on district managed networks remain the property of the school district and, as such, may be inspected at any time. 11. Users may not spread untruths about, show disrespect toward, or misrepresent any person, group or organization. 12. Students will receive grade appropriate training by the staff. Users will have the privilege of access to the local and wide area network resources of the district if they comply with the above guidelines. Access to the networks beyond the management of the school district requires that this agreement be signed by the user/student and parent/guardian. This form is included in the registration packet given to all students and is provided to all staff online.

SECTION B
School Board Governance and Operation

SECTION C
General School Administration

SECTION D
Fiscal Management

SECTION E
Support Services

SECTION F
Facilities Planning and Development

SECTION G
Personnel Part 1
Personnel Part 2

SECTION H
Negotiations

SECTION I
Instruction

SECTION J
Students Part 1
Students Part 2
Students Part 3
Students Part 4

SECTION K
School – Community – Home Relations

SECTION L
Education Agency Relations

Section G contains policies on school employees except the superintendent and general administration found in section C.

GCBE
Certified Staff Leave

GCC
Leave of Absence

GCCA
Leave of Absence – Experience Increment

GCCAA
Sick Leave Bank

GCCAC
Reimbursement for Unused Accumulated Sick Leave (Classified/Certified)

GCCACA
Maternity and Paternity Leave

GCD
District Holidays

GCE
Advertising Openings

GCEA
Employee Applications

GCEC
Employment of District Personnel

GCF
Employment of Administrators

GCI
Administrative Professional Growth

GCIA
Professional Growth/Certified Staff

GCID
Convention Attendance

GCKA
Assignment of Certified Staff

GCKAA
Reporting to Work – Certified Staff

GCM
Contract Year

GCMA
Counselor and Media Specialist Work Year

GCOA
Supervision and Evaluations

GCQEB
Transitional Retirement

GCQF
Cause for Dismissal – Certified Staff

GCQFA
Dismissal Recommendation – Certified Staff

GCQG
Reduction In Force

GD
Classified Employees Defined

GDBD
Classified Staff Leave

GDC
Classified Staff Compensation

GDCE
Classifed Staff Group Health and Hospitalization

GDCF
Classified Staff – Term Life Insurance

GDCG
Classified Employees’ Fringe Benefits

GDCH
Classifed Staff Annual Compensation Adjustment

GDD
Classified Staff Vacation

GDDA
Classified Staff Payment for Earned Vacation

GDF
Fingerprints

GDGHI
Classified Staff Jury Duty

GDJ
Reassignment or Dismissal of Classified Staff

GDJA
Authority to Dismiss or Re-Assign Classified Staff

GDK
Classified Staff Grievance Procedure

GDQC
Classified Staff Severance Pay

Policy Code: GCBE (VI. 31 E.)

Policy Name:  Certified Staff Leave

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: June 22, 2001

Revised: June, 2005

Reviewed: December, 2008

All full time District teachers, counselors, and media specialists receive 8 days of annual leave each year. All District administrators receive 12 days of annual leave each year. Annual leave will be prorated for any staff contracted for less than full time. Annual leave may be used for any purpose by the employee. Unused annual leave will accumulate indefinitely  as sick leave. During any given year, all employee absenteeism  will first be deducted from that year’s annual leave. After that given year’s annual leave is exhausted, accumulated sick leave, if available, may be used for further absenteeism due to illness.

If an employee has used up all annual leave and needs to be absent due to a family emergency, accumulated leave may be used with the permission of the Superintendent. When all accumulated sick leave is exhausted, further absenteeism, will be charged against the employee at the daily rate of compensation for that employee.

The Superintendent may investigate the appropriateness of the use of leave for either illness or family emergency, and deny the use of, or cause to be charged against the employee, if such leave by the employee is determined inappropriate.

Policy Code: GCC (VI. – 28.)

Policy Name: Leave of Absence

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised: December 2008

Any certified staff member may request a leave of absence from the district without pay. The request must include the reason and the starting and ending dates of the leave. The Board shall determine if the leave is to be granted and, if so, for what period of time based upon the staff member’s request and the needs of the district.

Policy Code: GCCA (VI. – 29.)

Policy Name:  Leave of Absence – Experience Increment

Adoption:   November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:  December, 2008

Staff members on leave of absence from the district do not receive an experience increment on the salary schedule for that year. If a leave is granted for part of a year the experience increment for that year will not be awarded unless the employee has worked more that 50% of the year’s contract.

Policy Code: GCCAA (III. – 33.)

Policy Name:  Sick Leave Bank

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised: March, 2006

Revised: January, 2009

A sick leave bank is established in the district for all classified employees who work 20 hours or more per week and all certified employees who work halftime or more. Employees not meeting this minimum requirement who are members of the bank in December 2008 may remain in the bank. The purpose of the bank is to provide additional sick days for participants who have extended illnesses causing them to use all annual and accumulated sick leave.

Any district employee, as defined above and new to the district, may join the sick bank by donating one day of leave to the bank at the start of each school year. Certified employees new to the district may join the bank at the beginning of their first year by donating one day of annual leave to the bank. Classified employees new to the district may join the bank as soon as they have accumulated at least one day of leave (after working 20 days) to contribute to the bank. No employee may join the bank after their initial 30 days of employment; except those whose employment status increases from less than ½ time to ½ time or more (certified) or from less than 20 hours per week to 20 hours per week or more (classified). In such cases, the employee must join the bank within 30 days of this change of employment status.

In order to apply for days from the bank, the member must first have depleted all annual and accumulated sick leave. The participant must also provide a statement from his or her physician stating the nature of the illness and prognosis of time needed for recovery.

The number of days available for each member of the bank will be determined by the status of the member’s annual and sick leave accumulation when the extended illness occurs. The table below depicts the number of eligibility days for a member based on leave status.

Days of annual leave plus                                        Number of sick leave

accumulated sick leave on                                        bank days which may

first day of illness                                                            be requested

0                                                                                        4

1                                                                                        6

2                                                                                        8

3                                                                                      10

4                                                                                      12

5                                                                                      14

6                                                                                      16

7                                                                                      18

8 or more                                                                        20

Participants may not withdraw sick days from the bank more than twice during any school year.

Days will be added to the sick leave bank through the one day yearly donation by participants until a reserve of 200 days is accumulated in the bank. No further days will be added to the bank until the reserve has dropped to 150 days. Then, at the beginning of the school year immediately following the date the bank’s reserve has dropped to 150 days, a further day will be assessed each participant until the reserve is again at or above 200 days. The employee must contribute additional days as needed in order to remain in the bank and shall designate if the added days are to be deducted from annual or accumulated leave.

A participant may withdraw from the bank at any time by submitting his/her intention to the Superintendent in writing. Any participant who withdraws forfeits all days he or she previously donated to the bank. The Board of Education will review the operation of the sick leave periodically to determine is it is in the best interests of the district’s fiscal management to continue the bank. Should the Board rescind this policy and dismantle the employee sick bank, each participant shall have the balance of his non-used contributed day(s) credited back to his individual accumulated leave account.

Policy Code: GCCAC (VI. – 30)

Policy Name: Reimbursement for Unused Accumulated Sick Leave

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: June, 2005

Reviewed: December 2008

Employees retiring from School District 14 shall be reimbursed for accumulated sick leave as follows.

To qualify, the employee must apply for and be approved for their PERA retirement.

Formula:*

1.  5-9 years of service at the time of retirement and not including the transition year:

20% of the base per diem pay up to 40 days total.

2.  10-14 years of service at the time of retirement and not including the transition year:

30% of the base per diem pay up to 50 days total.

3.  15-19 years of service at the time of retirement and not including the transition year:

40% of the base per diem pay up to 60 days total.

4. 20 years of service at the time of retirement and not including the transition year:

50% of the base per diem pay up to 100 days total

Calculation of per diem pay:

Teachers: Base teacher salary as it appears on the salary schedule divided by the number of contract days.

Administrators/Directors: The lowest Administrative Salary Schedule factors for the position the employee holds at the time of retirement.   The per diem will be determined by dividing that base pay by the number of contract days specified for the administrator/director.

Classified: The base hourly rate for the classification the employee holds at the time of retirement times the number of hours per day the employee worked at the time of retirement.

For budgeting purposes and for the purpose of this policy, employees must submit a letter of resignation stating their intent to retire by March 1 of the year of retirement.  Employees will receive payment in the month following retirement or in July immediately following retirement, whichever comes later.   If the March 1 deadline is not met, payment will be made in July one year after retirement.

*Full and complete years of service as defined by the appropriate job classification.  Partial years will not be credited as a year of service.

Policy Code: GCCACA (VI.-19.)

Policy Name: Maternity and Paternity Leave

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: March 28, 2005

Reviewed: December 2008

Employees who become pregnant or whose spouse becomes pregnant may use unused and accumulated sick leave (after annual leave is exhausted) for a maximum of 30 school days beginning with the birth of the child. These 30 school days must fall within 42 calendar days of the birth of the child.  If the employee chooses to stay at home with the baby beyond the 30 days allowed by this policy, he/she must apply for a leave of absence without pay.  The Board will determine the dates of this leave, if granted, based on the employee’s request, requirements of the Family Leave Act, and the needs of the district.

Policy Code: GCD (III. – 32.)

Policy Name: District Holidays

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: June 28, 2004

Reviewed: December, 2008

The following holidays are established by School District 14 for the full- time twelve month employees of the district:

Labor Day

Columbus Day

The day before Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day

The day after Thanksgiving

Christmas Eve Day

Christmas Day

The day after Christmas

New Year’s Eve Day

New Year’s Day

Martin Luther King’s Birthday

President’s Day

Memorial Day

July Fourth

When a holiday occurs on a Saturday or Sunday, the district will close on a weekday determined by the Superintendent to observe the holiday.

Should the Board of Education’s yearly adopted school calendar designate any of the above holidays as student attendance days, than all staff shall be expected to work on those days.

Nine and ten month employees shall follow the above holiday schedule as established in the yearly school calendar.

Policy Code: GCE (VI. – 9.)

Policy Name:  Advertising of Openings

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: March, 2006

Reviewed: December 2008

All openings for employee positions shall be advertised the district for five days and then externally.  The Board reserves the right to select the candidate they feel will be most qualified to fill the position.

Policy Code: GCEA (VI. – 10.)

Policy Name: Employee Applications

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: March, 2006

Reviewed: December 2008

All applicants for employee positions must fill out the proper application and provide other information as listed on the application. Other information, such as credentials, may be required by the interviewer. Personal interviews shall be required before final recommendations for employment is made to the Board. Specific guidelines detailing the application and selection process shall be devleoped by the Superintendent.

Policy Code: GCEC (VI. – 11.)

Policy Name: Employment of District Personnel

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:  January, 2010

The primary purpose of this procedure is to assure that the best available candidate is selected for this position.  See District 14 Employment Guidelines.

1. Vacancies

A.  Notice of all certified vacancies shall be posted within the district from 1-5 days via e-mail and/or paper notices if practical.

B.  All vacancies shall be advertised locally , regionally and nationally as appropriate.

2. Applications

a. All applications must be in writing.

b. All applications must include the following items: (Incomplete applications will not be considered.)

1. A complete district application

2. Up to date transcripts as appropriate

3. Credentials – teacher placement papers or 3 letters of reference

4. Valid Colorado teaching credentials (certified staff)

5. Up to date resume

6. No other information will be accepted at this time

c. Deadlines for applications will be set and adhered to unless the vacancy is other wise advertised. Applications received after deadline date may not be considered.

3. Review of applications

a. Applications shall be reviewed by the Superintendent or designee. He/she may enlist services of others with initial screening, rating and review.

b. No files may leave the central administration unless properly signed out on files form.

4. Interviews

a. Interviews will be set up and conducted by the appropriate administrator.

b. The interview team shall contain no less than three employees except as allowed in 4. c.

c. Upon approval from the Superintendent or designee, this policy may allow for alternate hiring procedures due to emergency and limited time situations.

d. Following the interviews, the administrator shall submit their recommendation to the superintendent for consideration.

e. The superintendent shall submit the request for employment to the Board of Education for approval or ratification.

f. When interviewing for certain positions, especially administrative, it may be appropriate to use a screening committee composed of administrators,  teachers, other staff and community members. It will be the responsibility of the superintendent or designee to appoint this committee and designate a             chairperson when this system is employed.

5. Offering of position

a. The administrator shall offer the position to the candidate, complete the salary request form, and explain the conditions of the contract.

b. Unsuccessful candidates that were interviewed for the position shall be notified personally or in writing when the position is filled.

c. Application materials will be kept on file for one year.

(This policy does not pertain to the employment of the Superintendent.)

Policy Code: GCF (VI. – 8.)

Policy Name: Employment of Administrators

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

The Superintendent of Schools is responsible for setting up the interviewing team(s), selecting the final candidate and recommending for employment all district administrators below the level of Superintendent.

Policy Code: GCI (III. – 27.)

Policy Name: Administrative Professional Growth

Adopted: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

Administrators who go to summer school may do so on their working time and are not expected to use vacation time for professional educational study which is approved by the Superintendent as long as summer duties are completed.

Policy Code: GCIA (VI. – 24.)

Policy Name: Professional Growth Certified Staff

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

Certified employee contracts will be adjusted each September to reflect any approved hours of credit earned the previous 12 months. Credit earned by a certified employee will be applied to an upward adjustment of the contract only if proof of the earned hours in the form of a transcript or grade sheet is presented to the Superintendent’s office before September 1. Credits submitted after September 1 will not apply to contract adjustments until the following year.

Policy Code: GCID (III. – 21.)

Policy Name: Convention Attendance

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

The Board of Education may appropriate funds to send administrators and other staff members to meetings and conventions of an educational nature.

Policy Code: GCKA (VI. – 17.)

Policy Name: Assignment of Certified Staff

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

The Superintendent, upon the advice of the principals and Assistant Superintendent for Instruction will make all assignments of certified staff within the system.

Policy Code: GCKAA (VI. – 13.)

Policy Name:  Reporting to Work – First Day

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

If a certified employee does not report to work on the appointed first day of the contract and does not request and receive permission from the Superintendent for reporting at a later date, the employee’s contract shall be null and void.

Policy Code:  GCM (VI. – 21.)

Policy Name: Contract Year

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

The contract year for all certified staff members except the the superintendent shall be from August 15 to the following August 14.

Policy Code:  GCMA (VI. – 22.)

Policy Name: Counselor and Media Specialist Work Year

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

Counselors and the media specialist at the high school work 10 more days than the teachers and receive extra compensation for doing so. The middle school counselor works 5 more days than the teachers and receives extra compensation for doing so. Administrators’ work years are listed in the administrative salary schedule.

Policy Code:  GCOA (VI. – 14.)

Policy Name: Supervision and Evaluations

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

Supervision and evaluation of the certificated employees of School District 14 shall take place in accordance with the Colorado statutes pertaining to the evaluation of certified employees. The administration of the district, with input from the Certified Employee Evaluation Advisory Committee and staff, shall develop and implement a comprehensive evaluation system for the certified staff. This system shall specify the procedures to be carried out in the evaluation of each certified employee category.

The Board of Education shall appoint the District Educational Accountability Advisory Committee as the Certified Employee Evaluation Advisory Committee with membership as specified in C.R.S. 22-9-107. This committee shall meet biennially to review the fairness, effectiveness, credibility, and professional quality of the district’s certified personnel performance appraisal system and its processes and procedures. The committee will give a report to the Board of Education during a board meeting after the biennial review has been completed.

Policy Code:  GCQEB

Policy Name:  Transitional Retirement

Adoption:  July 26, 2004

Reviewed:  December, 2008

The Manitou Springs Board of Education shall consider requests for Transitional Retirement as permitted by PERA and PERA guidelines with the following conditions:

1.  The employee must retire from Manitou Springs School District 14 and complete the retirement process with PERA.

2.  The employee must fill out the application for the Transitional Retirement Plan as developed by the Superintendent and submit all application paperwork at least ninety (90) days before the date of retirement.

3.  The employee must be a classified or certified staff member with a minimum of five full and continuous years of employment in District 14.  The five full and continues years must be immediately prior to the request for a Transitional Retirement Plan.

4.  The Board of Education shall make final approval of a Transitional Retirement by giving consideration to the needs of the District and recommendations from the immediate supervisor and the Superintendent.

5.  If approved by the Board of Education:

A.            The employee will serve as an “at will” employee.

B.            The   employee may continue accessing employee health insurance benefits in

accordance with Board Policy for regular employees.

C.            The employee will receive no paid holidays, paid vacations, or paid leaves,

including sick leave or access to the sick leave bank.

6. The employee will execute a Transitional Retirement Agreement in which they waive any and all rights and remedies available under provisions of the Colorado Teacher Employment, Compensation and Dismissal Act, C.R.S. 22-63-101.

Policy Code: GCQF (VI. – 3.)

Policy Name: Cause for Dismissal of Certified Staff

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:  December, 2008

The Board reserves the right to dismiss any certified staff member for incompetence, immorality, physical or mental disability, neglect of duty, insubordination, conviction of a felony, unsatisfactory performance, or other good and just cause.

Policy Code:  GCQFA (VI. – 4.)

Policy Name: Dismissal  Recommendation: Certified Staff

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December 2008

If the district administration deems it necessary to dismiss, non-renew or reassign any certified employee, such recommendation will be made to the Board of Education for its decision.

Policy Name:  GCQG

Policy Code: REDUCTION IN FORCE

Adoption:   July 26, 2004

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

I.            Definitions

1.            “Cancellation of employment means the termination of employment of a teacher when there is a justifiable reduction in the number of teaching positions in the school district by reason of fiscal exigency or program change.

2.            “Teacher” means any person who is regularly certified by the teacher certifying authority for the state of Colorado, and who is employed to instruct, direct, or supervise the instructional program, except those persons holding letters of authorization and the chief administrative officer of any school district.

3.            “Fiscal exigency” means any significant decline in the board of education’s ability to fund the operations of the district resulting from a decline in enrollment or other action or events.

4.            “Programs change” means any elimination, curtailment, or reorganization of curriculum, program, or operation, or a reorganization or consolidation of two or more individual schools. A program change need not be caused by fiscal exigency.

II.            General Grounds for Cancellation of Employment

Cancellation of employment may take place when the board of education decides that a fiscal exigency or a program change requires cancellation of one or more teaching positions. Such a decision may be made and may result in termination effected only in accordance with the procedure provided in the Reduction of Force policy.

III.             Board of Education’s Preliminary Determination and Statement

If the board decides that a state of fiscal exigency exists or is imminent, or a program change has occurred or should seriously be considered, and cancellation of employment of one or more teachers may be required, it shall prepare a statement that identifies with reasonable particularity the state of fiscal exigency or the program change. This statement shall be transmitted to the superintendent of schools and school district faculty.

IV.            Superintendent’s Action

Within twenty days after receiving the statement from the board, the superintendent shall submit to the board recommendations for canceling the employment of particular teachers in the areas or program designated by the board in its initial statements. When cancellation of a teaching position occurs within any particular endorsement area the contracts of first year probationary teachers who are occupying such positions shall be canceled first.

The superintendent will use the following three factors when recommending a teacher for cancellation of employment:

1.              The needs of the district to preserve academic excellence and meet the                                     needs of children.

2.             The area of specialty for which a teacher was hired.

3.             Past teaching performance and future teaching potential.  To be                                                 determined in part by current and past evaluations.

The superintendent shall deliberate with the district Leadership Team to jointly develop a fair process and appropriate criteria in consideration of these three factors.

Other factors which might be considered are:

1.            Professional experience including experiences an administrator,

2.            Level of education,

3.            Length of Service,

4.            Affirmative action considerations,

5.            Extracurricular involvement.

The salary of a teacher being considered for cancellation of employment shall not be a consideration in the superintendent’s recommendation.

V. Notice to Individual Teacher

If, after considering the superintendent’s recommendation, the board acts to cancel employment, it shall give written notice of that fact by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the teacher to be terminated. The notice shall include a statement of the conditions requiring termination of employment, a general description of the procedures followed in making the decision, and a disclosure of pertinent financial or other data on which the decision was based. The teacher’s address as it appears in the school district’s records shall be deemed to be the correct address. It shall be the teacher’s responsibility to insure that the district has his or her current address on file.

VI. Review of Individual Cancellations

Within ten days after receiving a notice of termination, a teacher may request a review of the action by the board of education. The board of education may delegate the responsibility for conducting a hearing to an impartial hearing officer elected by the board. When appropriate, more than one case can be heard at the same time. Review may occur solely to determine the following:

1.            Was there rational basis to determine that a fiscal exigency existed or a program change was necessary or appropriate; or

2.            Was the cancellation procedure arbitrary or capricious; or

3.            Was the decision to cancel the employment of the teacher arbitrary or capricious?

The request for review must be in writing and addressed to the president of the board of education. It must specify the grounds on which it is contended that the decision was improper under this policy and must include a short, plain statement of facts that the employee believes support the contention.

Submission of such a request constitutes a representation on the part of the teacher that he or she can support the contention by factual proof.

The board shall consider the request and shall schedule a hearing to be held within ten days after the request is received. The teacher shall be given at least five days notice of the hearing.

VII. Conduct of the Hearing

The hearing shall be conducted informally and, upon agreement of both sides, in private.

Counsel may represent the teacher. The school district shall have no obligation to pay for the service of counsel representing the teacher. A board member who has a significant conflict of interest should ask to be disqualified by the board’s adoption of motion of disqualification. A recorded transcription of the proceedings will be maintained. The board or hearing officer may consider only such evidence as is presented at the hearing, and it need consider only the evidence that it considers fair and reliable.

After the superintendent or counsel completes the presentation, the board shall consider the matter in executive session or the hearing officer may take the matter under advisement. A decision shall be made within fourteen days following the completion or the hearing.

VIII. Exclusive Procedure

This Reduction in Force Policy represents the only procedure that may be used in a Reduction in Force involving a teacher. Any existing procedure for reconsidering or examining an employee discharge, non-reappointment, or grievance is not available for considering an issue that arises from a reduction in force. Similarly, no other personnel action other than reduction in force may be considered under this procedure.

Policy Code: GD (VII. – 1.)

Policy Name:  Classified Employees Defined

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised: March 28, 2005

Reviewed: December 2008

School District 14 classified employees include:

1. Assistant Superintendent for Business Services: Classified or Certified depending upon the needs of the district.

2. Director of Technology: Classified or Certified depending upon the needs of the District.

3. Director of Buildings and Grounds.

4. Director of Food Services.

5. Director of Transportation.

6. All secretaries, administrative assistants, para educators, media technicians, computer technicians, and accounts payable, payroll and benefits, and financial & reporting reconciliation staff.

7. All bus drivers, food services employees, custodians and grounds persons.

8. Superintendent of Schools: Classified or Certified depending upon the needs of the district.

Policy Code:  GDBD (VII. – 24.)

Policy Name: Classified Staff Leave

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: January 22, 2001

Revised: June, 2005

Reviewed: December, 2008

Classified employees who work more than 202 days per year receive 12 days annual leave each year. Classified employees working 202 days or less receive 8 days of annual leave yearly. The yearly anniversary date for adding annual leave shall be July 1.  After a classified employee has started work with the district, the employee shall receive one leave day for each 20 days worked.  After the employee has been awarded 6 leave days ( having been employed a minimum of 120 days) the employee shall be eligible to receive next year’s full complement of leave on the next anniversary date. If an employee has not been awarded 6 days leave before the next anniversary date, leave will continue to be awarded on a 1 day of leave for each 20 days worked until the next anniversary date. The annual leave may be used by the employee for any purpose. Unused annual leave will accumulate indefinitely as sick leave.

During any given year, all employee absenteeism will first be deducted from that year’s annual leave. After that given year’s annual leave is exhausted, accumulated sick leave, if available, may be used for further absenteeism due to illness.

If an employee has used up all annual leave and needs to be absent due to a family emergency, accumulated leave may be used with the permission of the Superintendent.  When all accumulated sick leave is exhausted, further absenteeism, will be charged against the employee at the daily rate of compensation for that employee.

The Superintendent may investigate the appropriateness of the use of leave for either illness or family emergency, and deny the use of, or cause to be charged against the employee, if such leave by the employee is determined inappropriate.

A day of leave per employee is defined as the same number of hours as a work day for the employee.  Thus, an employee who works 4 hours per day for 180 days per year receives 8 four hour days of annual leave per year.

Employees who work full days and work less than full time will have their annual leave days pro rated relative to the percent of full time worked.

Policy Code: GDC (VII. – 22.)

Policy Name:  Classified Compensation Increases

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:  Annually

Reviewed: December 2008

Any twelve month classified employee who was hired and began work prior to January 1 and any nine month classified employee who was hired and began work on or before the first day of the second semester of the school year will receive a full increment  on the salary schedule for the following July 1 annual compensation adjustments. Classified employees who do not meet these criteria will remain on the same salary schedule step when compensation adjustments are made.

Policy Code: GDCE (VII. – 17.)

Policy Name:  Classified Group Health and Hospitalization

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

All full time classified employees are eligible to participate in one of the district’s hospitalization and medical plans and the district will contribute to the monthly premium of that plan at the same level approved for teachers.

Policy Code:  GDCF (VII. – 18.)

Policy Name: Classified Term Life Insurance

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

The Assistant Superintendent for Business Services, the Director of Buildings and Grounds, the Director of Transportation, and the Director of Food Service are each provided a term life insurance policy by the district in the amount of their annual salary rounded up to the nearest $1,000. All other classified employees receive an annual $20,000.00 term life insurance paid for by the district.

Policy Code: GDCG (VII. – 20.)

Policy Name: Classified Employee Fringe Benefits

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

All classified employees are covered by Workman’s Compensation, unemployment insurance, and liability insurance provided for by the district.

Policy Code: GDCH (VII. – 21.)

Policy Name: Annual Compensation Adjustment

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

Annual compensation adjustments for all classified employees occur July 1 of each year.

Policy Code: GDD (VII. 11.)

Policy Name: Vacation – Classified Staff

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:  December, 2008

Classified employees are eligible for 10 days vacation each year during the first five years of employment with the district and 15 days each year thereafter. Vacation days must be taken during the summer months when school is not session unless otherwise approved by the Superintendent. Grounds employees must take vacation days during the school year unless otherwise approved by the Superintendent. To qualify for 10 days vacation, first year employees must have been in the employ of the district for at least 9 months prior to the start of any vacation. The number of vacation days for first year employees not having completed 9 months prior to June 1 will be prorated accordingly. Vacation days may not be accumulated. If they are not used during the July 1 through June 30 work year, they are forfeited unless special arrangements are approved by the Superintendent.

Policy Code: GDDA (VII. -12.)

Policy Name:  Payment for Earned Vacation

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

Classified employees resigning their employment with the district having given two weeks notice will be entitled to receive payment for any earned vacation time.

Policy Code: GDF (VII. – 29.)

Policy Name: Fingerprints

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

All classified employees must submit a set of fingerprints and applicant oath with their application materials. These materials must be provided to the district prior to the employee’s first work day in the district. The fingerprints will be sent to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation which will, in turn, send them to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for processing. When the processing report is received by the district it will be checked against the information provided the district by the applicant on the application and oath. Any discrepancies in information provided by the applicant and the processing report may result in immediate dismissal of the employee.

Policy Code: GDGHI (VII. – 14.)

Policy Name: Classified Jury Duty

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

Any classified employee called for jury duty during working hours will be paid his/her regular salary while serving on jury duty. In turn, the employee must turn over the jury pay to the district.

Policy Code: GDJ (VII. – 9.)

Policy Name:   Reassignment or Dismissal of Classified Staff

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2008

The appropriate supervisors shall be responsible for recommending to the Superintendent the reassignment or dismissal of any classified employee under their supervision.

Policy Code: GDJA (VII. – 13.)

Policy Name: Authority to Dismiss or Re-Assign

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: December, 2005

The Board of Education gives the Superintendent authority to dismiss or re-assign any classified employee employee provided that due process is given the employee and full explanation of cause is given the Board by the Superintendent.

Policy Code: GDK (VII. – 2.)

Policy Name: Grievance Procedure – Classified Staff

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:  December, 2008

Any classified employee with a grievance should take the grievance directly to his/her immediate supervisor. If satisfaction is not gained at that level, the employee may file the grievance with the Superintendent of Schools. If, having seen the Superintendent, the employee is still dissatisfied, a hearing before the Board of Education may be requested. A request to meet with the Board must be made through the Superintendent who is obliged to set up a meeting between the employee and the Board as promptly as is reasonable. All grievances must be received directly from an individual employee speaking on his/her behalf. All decisions of the Board concerning employee grievances are final.

Policy Code:  GDQC (VII. – 10.)

Policy Name: Classified Severance Pay

Adoption:  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:   December, 2008

In the case of dismissal of classified employees, no severance payment will be made. However, payment will be made for any earned vacation days accumulated at date of dismissal.

Reviewed 2007

Section L contains policies on the school district’s relationship with other education agencies including other school districts, colleges and universities, charter schools and Boards of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES)

LBB
Ute Pass Board of Cooperative Educational Services

LBC
Area Vocational Education Program

LBD
Relations with Charter Schools

Policy Code: LBB (IX. – 9.)

Policy Name:  Ute Pass Board of Cooperative Educational Services

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: March 28, 2005

Reviewed: January, 2007

The Board of Education has approved participation in the Ute Pass Board of Cooperative Educational Services (UPBOCES). They have designated the UPBOCES to meet the requirements for special education as set by the legislature. The UPBOCES will formulate the plan to the district for meeting State requirements. The district Board will have a representative on the governing board as per UPBOCES bylaws.

Policy Code: LBC (IX. – 10.)

Policy Name:  Area Vocational Education Program

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: January, 2007

The Board of Education has approved the District participation in the Vocational Education Program at Pikes Peak Community College.

Policy Code:  LBD (III. -  45)

Policy Name:  Relations with Charter Schools

Adoption: November, 1993

Revised:

Reviewed: January, 2007

District relationship with a charter school

The Board of Education recognizes the rights of parents, teachers or other interested persons or organizations to establish a charter school within the district. In accordance with state law, a charter school is intended to:

1.         Expand learning opportunities for all students

2.         Encourage diverse approaches to learning through the use of different and                                 innovative teaching methods

3.         Provide patents and students with expanded choices in the types of educational                        opportunities that are available within the public school system

4.         Encourage parental and community involvement with public schools

A charter school shall be a public, nonsectarian, nonreligious, non-home-based school which operates within the school district and is accountable to the Board of Education. It is subject to all federal and state laws and constitutional provisions prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability, race, creed, color, gender, national origin, religion, ancestry or need for special education services.

Enrollment shall be open to any child who resided within the school district. A charter school shall not charge tuition except as otherwise provided by law.

Each charter school shall be governed by its own governing body in a manner agreed to by the charter school applicant and the Board. Pursuant to contract, the charter school may operate free from specified Board policies and statue regulations.

A charter school shall be responsible for its own operation including but not limited to preparation of a budget, contracting for services and personnel matters. Services for which a charter school contracts with the school shall be negotiated and provided at district cost. No rent shall be charged for use of district facilities which may be available for the charter school.

The relationship between the district and the charter school shall be established by a contract which shall incorporate the charter application once it is approved. The contract also shall reflect all agreements between the district and the charter school including the release of the charter school from Board policies and all requests for release of the charter school from Board policies and all requests for release from state regulations which the Board and the charter school shall jointly request rom the State Board of Education.

Each charter school shall have an educational program with student performance standards and curriculum that meets or exceeds district and state standards.

A charter school shall begin in the fall following the date the application is approved, unless another starting time is agreed upon by the Board and the applicant.

Review by district accountability committee

On or before October 1 the charter school applicant must submit the application to the district accountability committee for review and comment. The committee will have 20 days to review the proposal before it is considered by the Board of Education.

Date for submission of applications

To allow sufficient time for an approved charter school to begin operations at the beginning of the academic school year, the application must be officially submitted to the Board or its designees by November 1.

Prior to submission of a formal application, persons preparing applications may submit a preliminary draft of the application to the Board or its designee for review and comment prior to formal submission.

A district administrator will be designated by the Board of Education to provide information to the applicant about matters subject to negotiation between the applicant and the district to begin the negotiation process. It shall be the applicant’s responsibility to prepare the application.

Contents of the application

In accordance with law, the charter school application will be proposed agreement and will include:

1. Cover page

Provide the name of the applicant(s) and the name, address and phone number of a contact person.

2. Purpose and need

State the purpose for this charter school including a geographic description of the area of intended service.

Provide evidence that an adequate number of parents, teachers and students support the formation of the proposed charter school.

Describe the need for the charter school: How was the need established, why that need is not currently being met by the regular school programs and how the applicant intends to fulfill that need.

3. Mission and goals

Provide a copy of the mission statement of the charter school including the process used to develop this statement. The mission statement of the proposed charter school must be consistent with the declared purposes set forth in the law.

State the proposed three-year goals for the school including timelines. The applicant also should describe the process used to identify the goals. Was this once a private school or a nonpublic home-based educational program?

4. Student achievement and curriculum

Describe the student performance outcomes to be achieved by the proposed school.

Detail the plan for academic accountability.

Provide a copy of the curriculum to be used in the school. It should list the objectives, methods of instruction and means of measuring student outcomes for each subject and each grade level.

Present a description of the charter school’s plan for evaluating student performance including types of assessment that will be used to measure student progress toward achievement of the school’s performance standards, timelines for achievement of such standards and procedures for taking corrective action in the event that student performance at the charter school falls below such standards.

5. Enrollment and educational program

Define the enrollment policy including a description of the proposed school’s plan to include academically low-achievement students and to promote diversity and the plans for educational programs for exceptional students as well as students with special needs.

Describe the charter school’s educational program.

Describe any objectives and means for increasing the educational opportunities for “at risk” students, meaning those students who because of physical, emotional socioeconomic or cultural factors are less likely to succeed in school.

Provide a description of the school’s discipline procedures.

6. Governance and decision making

Describe the governing body. This should include a detailed description of the relationship between the proposed school and the school district.

Describe the types and extent of parental community involvement in the operation of the proposed school. Provide information on how the charter school will be accountable to the public. Specifically include how the following ares will be addressed:

a. Provisions for a representative school accountability committee

b. Development of an annual school improvement plan with supporting profile

information

c. Representation on the district accountability committee

d. Reporting procedures to the Board and school community

7. Employment plan and practices

Describe the employment practices of the school including a description of the qualifications for ertificated and classified employees, employee compensation schedule, recruitment and selection procedures, plan for resolving employee relations problems, and a description of the relationship that will exist between the charter school and its employees including evidence that the terms and conditions of employment have been addressed with affected employees and their recognized representatives.

If applicable, i.e., taking over a current school, include a plan for the displacement of students, teachers and other employees who will not attend or be employed in the charter school.

8. Financial data, facilities and transportation

Provide necessary evidence that the plan for the charter school is economically sound for both the charter school and the district.

Include a proposed budget for the term of the charter and a description of the manner in which an annual audit of the financial and administrative operations of the charter school including any services purchased from the district is to be conducted. A student fee schedule should be included in addition to a proposed schedule of cash flow.

Detail the plan for fiscal accountability.

Describe the services the charter school plans to purchase from the school district.

Provide a detailed summary of all insurance coverage. The legal liability issues must be fully addressed in the contract.

Describe the facilities to be used and the way they will be obtained and maintained. Include any contracted services and the proposed contractor.

Describe the proposed student transportation system including the contract if services will be provided by a second party. If transportation is to be provided by  the charter school, include a plan for addressing the transportation needs of low income and academically low-achieving students.

9. Requested waivers

List the Board policies for which waivers are requested. Include the reasons for each request.

List the state and federal rules and regulations for which waivers are requested. Include the reasons for each request.

10. Support for charter school

Provide a listing of parents and community members who support the application and have made a commitment to enroll their children together with a listing of possible employees.

11. Additional information

Provide any additional information that might be helpful in supporting this request to establish a charter school.

Submission procedures

The applicant must provide two original copies of the completed application printed single-sided on white paper, not stapled.

Applications will be accepted during November for schools beginning in August. Applications are to be submitted to the Superintendent of Schools.

Incomplete application

If the application is incomplete, the Board will request additional information from the applicant. The parties may mutually agree to extend the deadline for Board consideration of the application.

Public meetings

After giving reasonable notice, the Board will schedule and hold community meetings in the affected areas or the entire district to obtain information to assist the Board make a decision about the charter school application. All persons or groups who have an interest in the approval or denial of the charter school application must present their comments or concerns to the Board in writing in a timely manner or in testimony during a public meeting on the charter application to preserve a right to appeal the Board’s decision on the charter application.

Decision on the charter application

The Board will make a decision on the charter school application wither in a regular or special meeting within 60 days after receipt of the official application unless the parties have mutually agreed in writing to extend this deadline. A charter may be approved for a period not to exceed five academic years.

If the application is denied, the Board will set forth in writing the grounds for denial.

Appeal process

The charter applicant or any other person who wished to appeal the Board’s decision concerning a charter school to the State Board of Education must provide the state board and the local board with a notice of appeal within 30 days of the local board’s decision.

Renewal of a charter

A charter may be renewed for a period no to exceed five academic years. The renewal application must contain a complete report on the progress of the school in achieving the goals, objectives, student performance standards, content standards and other terms of the initial application.

The renewal application also must include a financial statement that disclosed the costs of administration, instruction and other spending categories for the school.

A charter may not be renewed upon a determination by the Board that it is not in the best interests of students residing within the district to continue the operation of the charter school.

Revocation of a charter

A charter may be revoked or not renewed by the Board if the Board determines following a hearing that the charter school did any of the following:

1. Committed a material violation of any of the conditions, standards or procedures in the application

2. Failed to meet or make reasonable progress towards achievement of student performance standards

3. Failed to meet generally accepted standards of fiscal management

4. Violated any provision of law for which the charter school is not specifically exempt.

Reviewed 2007

Section K contains policies on parent and community involvement in schools.

KA
Community Relations

KA – R
Community Relations Regulations/Procedures

KB
Parent Involvement in Education

KCC
Gifts and Gratuities

KCD
Gifts and Contributions

KEC
Reconsideration of Instructional Material

KF
Rental of School Facilities

KH
Fund Raising

KHA
Volunteer Group Projects

Policy Code:  KA

Policy Name: Community Relations

Adoption: January, 1999

Revised:

Reviewed: January, 2007

The Board of Education believes that the District is an integral part of the community and that community support is necessary for the District’s operation and achievement of excellence.  The Board recognizes that community support is based on a mutual exchange in which the District contributes to the community’s success and, in turn, benefits from the community’s resources.

In order to maintain productive relationships with the community, the District is committed to:

• Communications that are effective, accurate, meaningful and balanced.

• Volunteer programs that provide mutually enriching experiences for our students, staff, and community volunteers.

• Recognition programs that publicly honor the contributions of our  students, employees, and community partners.

• An atmosphere that welcomes community involvement.

• Maintaining fiscally responsible quality public schools.

Policy Code: KA-R

Policy Name: Community Relations Regulations and Procedures

Reviewed: January, 2007

PURPOSE

A community relations plan has as its primary purpose the continuous and responsive two-way communication between the school district and the community it serves.  Community, as defined within this plan, includes parents and non-parents of the school district as well as the community within the organization including the staff and students.

As communication strategies are developed and carried out to link together all of the above segments of the school district community, it is hoped that the quality of the total educational effort of the district will be enhanced.

FOCUS I: COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE BOARD OF EDUCATION AND THE COMMUNITY

• Prior to each regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Education, the meeting agenda will be posted in the central office, each school building and the post offices in the community.

• Each board meeting shall also be announced in the weekly activities memo published each Monday morning for all staff.

• Each building’s parent newsletter shall also announce the next meeting date for the Board in a timely manner.
• At the conclusion of each regular Board meeting, the superintendent shall distribute a summary of the discussion of the agenda items to all district staff.

• The Board of Education shall provide the district accountability advisory committee with a yearly, specific written charge.

• The Board shall have a representative on the accountability committee and shall make provisions for the committee’s chairperson to report to the Board on the activities of the committee.

• The Board shall actively solicit input from the various segments of the community on all matters which pertain to them.  This input may take a variety of forms including the authorization of curriculum development committees, short term task forces and written surveys and opinionnaires   to gather information prior to board-level decision-making.

• Members of the Board of Education may make themselves available to any group within the district or region wishing a school district presentation.

• The Board of Education shall monitor and annually appraise the                                     accomplishments of the activities set forth within this community relations plan.

FOCUS II: COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT AND THE COMMUNITY.

• The office of the superintendent will develop and maintain a district web site.

• The office of the superintendent will publish two reports to the staff and community each year.

• The superintendent will develop, have printed and regularly update a general information brochure about the school district for distribution to a variety of sources.

• The superintendent shall  maintain contact with the major developers and real estate firms within the district and those frequently marketing properties within the district to keep them abreast of the district and what it may offer to new residents within its boundaries.

• The superintendent shall attend at least one meeting each year of each building’s Building Accountability Advisory Committee and shall be available to present topics of interest upon request of the committees or building principal.

• The superintendent should attend a majority of community activities held within the school to promote the school district and visit with its patrons.

• The superintendent should participate in community organizations and should cooperate fully with school support groups interested in  promoting the activities of the district.

• In the accomplishment of organizational projects, the superintendent  shall utilize formal staff and community input and resources to the greatest possible extent.  District staff members should always be given the opportunity to have input into decisions which affect their work.

• The superintendent shall monitor and annually appraise the accomplishments of the activities set forth within this community relations plan at the central office and building levels.

FOCUS III: COMMUNICATION BETWEEN EACH DISTRICT 14 SCHOOL AND THE COMMUNITY:

• Each building administrator, along with students and staff will develop and maintain a building web site.

• Each building administrator shall organize and meet with a building-level Building Accountability Advisory Committee on a regular basis during the school year.  The purpose of the parent council is to provide the principal with input on decisions affecting their children and to function as a sounding board for the school administration and staff relative to new programs and ideas. Parent representation on the District Accountability Advisory Committee shall be drawn from the membership of the Building Accountability Advisory Committee. Each BAAC committee will publish minutes in school newsletters.

• Each school shall also organize and utilize a Student Advisory Council which shall meet regularly with the principal to discuss school affairs.  The school’s student council may be utilized for this council or an additional group of students shall be regularly convened.

• Just as the superintendent meets regularly to discuss school business with the administrative team, each principal shall regularly convene a Faculty Advisory Council to assist with the on-going decision-making process within the school.  The Faculty Advisory Council may function as a committee of the whole or may be a smaller group representative of the entire staff.

• The building principal shall include staff, parents and community members to assist with school program development.

• Each building administrator shall regularly publish a building-level newsletter focusing on school activities.  This newsletter shall be sent home with the students at the elementary level and shall be mailed at the secondary level.

• Each building administrator shall actively pursue ways to bring senior citizens and non-parents into the schools.

• Each principal shall develop strategies for meeting and getting acquainted with new parents to the district.  Such strategies might  include new parent orientation, open houses, parent coffees, and home room new parent welcome parties.

• Building administrators shall make themselves visible at  public activities which occur at their school and utilize these opportunities for meeting new parents and informally greeting and visiting with school patrons.

• The building administrator will publish an annual report to the community on the accomplishments of the building accountability goals.

• The building principal shall be responsible for monitoring and annually appraising the accomplishments of the activities set forth in the building-level portion of the community relations plan.

FOCUS IV:  COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE SCHOOL DISTRICT AND THE LOCAL MEDIA:

• The members of the Board of Education should  maintain a responsiveness to the local media readily answering questions related to school affairs as appropriate.

• The superintendent will develop news articles on a regular basis to be submitted to the media on issues and accomplishments of the district.

• The district administrative team will publicize the achievement of students and staff.

Policy Code: KB

Policy Name: Parent  Involvement in Education

Adoption: August 26, 2002

Reviewed: January, 2007

The district recognizes that parents/families are their children’s first and most influential teachers and that continued parental involvement in the education of children/youth contributes greatly to student achievement and a positive school climate. Productive interactions between home and school are essential to achieve the mission statement and learner goals of the district. To this end, parent involvement programs will be comprehensive and coordinated. They will include, but not be limited to, the following components of successful parent involvement programs:

Communication: Communication between home and school is regular, two way and meaningful.

Parenting: Responsible parenting is promoted and supported by providing appropriate avenues for parents/guardians to find support in their role.

Student Learning: Parents play an integral role in assisting student learning and in working with and supporting the classroom teacher.

Student Achievement: Parents/guardians are informed about their child’s progress toward attaining proficiency on state and district content standards.

Information concerning student progress is also provided to building and district level accountability committees.

Volunteering: Parents are welcome and needed in the school, and their support and assistance are sought.

School Decision Making and Advocacy: Parents/guardians are encouraged to share in school planning and in the setting of objectives through participating in building and district level accountability

committees.

LEGAL REF:  C.R.S. 22-7-407 (5) informing parents about standards-based education)

CROSS REFS.:

AE, Accountability/Commitment to Accomplishment

AD, Mission Statement

ADA, Learner Goals

IA, Instructional Philosophy

IG, Curriculum Review and Revision

IHBD, Title I Compliance

IICA, Field Trips and Overnight Activities

KA, Community Relations

Policy Code: KCC (III. – 39.)

Policy Name: Gifts and Gratuities

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: January, 2007

District employees are discouraged from accepting other than nominal gifts for any school-related reasons.

Policy Code: KCD (II. – 17.)

Policy Name: Gifts and Contributions

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: October 6, 1997

Reviewed: January, 2007

The School District may accept gifts or contibutions from groups or individuals within or outside the district. When such gifts are received they become the sole property of the district and under the complete control of school officials.

Policy Code: KEC (IX. – 13.)

Policy Name: Reconsideration of Instructional Material

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: December, 2009

Reviewed: January, 2010

If any parent of a School District 14 student or employee of School District 14 wishes to request reconsideration of the placement of any instructional materials in any of the district’s schools, the individual may pick up a “Request for Reconsideration of Instructional Material” form at the office of the superintendent. The form must be completed in its entirety, signed by the complainant and returned to the superintendent’s office. The term, instructional material as used here includes all media center materials, all textbooks and resource materials used in any classroom in the district, as well as any print or non-print items used for instruction whether owned by the district or rented or borrowed for instructional use.  The principal of the school where the challenged material is located shall determine whether the challenged material will be removed from the use while the district’s reconsideration process occurs. The principal shall consult with the superintendent or his designee before temporarily removing the challenged material.

An Instructional material Review Committee shall be appointed by the Board of Education to review all “Requests for Reconsideration of Instructional Material.” The committee shall consist of two parents, one teacher, one administrator and one high school student all of who shall be current members of the District Accountability Advisory Committee and shall serve one year terms. The Assistant Superintendent for Instruction will serve as technical advisor to the committee and shall call the committee together when needed.

Before meeting the committee will read and examine the challenged materials, a copy of the reconsideration form, and copies of professionally prepared reviews provided by the Director of Media Services. The complainant as well as other observers may attend all committee meeting. The complainant may make an initial verbal presentation regarding the materials under consideration. Observers may be invited to voice their views: however, after those opportunities, the complainant and other observers may not participate in the committee’s deliberations unless requested to do so by the Assistant Superintendent for Instruction. During this meeting or a subsequent one, the committee shall vote by secret ballot to remove or retain the material. The committee has the right to use outside expertise if necessary in the decision-making process. The superintendent shall implement the decision within fifteen days.

The complainant may appeal the decision to the Board of Education within one week. The Board will review the decision of the Instructional material  Review Committee and decide whether to hear the appeal. The Board of Education may choose not to hear the appeal, to limit its appeal hearing to a review of whether district policy has been properly followed, or to review the challenged material and related materials. If the Board chooses to hear the appeal, the President of the Board shall then call an appeal hearing. The Assistant Superintendent for Instruction shall represent the Instructional Material Review Committee and the complainant shall represent himself/herself at the appeal hearing.

All press coverage of the school district’s perspective of the challenge shall be provided by the superintendent. If a challenge is sustained, the judgment shall not be viewed as irresponsibility on the part of the professionals making the original selection.

Any subsequent challenge of the same material will have to be approved by a majority of the current Instructional Material Review Committee members before the challenge shall be considered.

Policy Code: KF (V. – 9.)

Policy Name: Use and Rental of School Facilities

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: April, 2004

Revised: July, 2006

Reviewed: January, 2007

Manitou Springs School District 14 recognizes that it owns the vast majority of playing fields, gymnasiums and meeting space in the school district. It further recognizes that these facilities should be made available to all residents of the school district as much as possible during periods of non-use by the school district.

The school district also recognizes that its first obligation is to its own students and to the program operated by the school district and that the students and district programs are the top priority of the school. Thus, the following guidelines are provided to direct non-school usage of the district’s indoor facilities and outdoor recreational space.

School space shall be made available to organized groups of non-school users on a reservation basis. Preference shall be given to groups who offer programs and activities which directly contribute toward or feed into school sponsored programs and activities. Organized activities of school district residents that do not necessarily contribute to school shall be considered next followed by requests from groups who are not primarily school district residents. School District 14 reserves the right to ban any organization from using space if their behavior and care of the facility is unacceptable.

School District 14 accepts no responsibility for liability for injuries or damages occurring during use of the schools by non-school organizations. Those parties reserving space must provide proof of liability insurance.

Requests to rent or use Richardson  Field, the track field, Maestas Field, the baseball field, the District Auditorium, and any high school facility space, should be made to the high school Student Activities Director. Requests to rent or use space in or adjacent to the other schools should be directed to the appropriate building principal.  Requests for the use of the Shared Integrated Learning Center should be directed to the Secretary of the Superintendent.

Contracts will be issued by the Assistant Superintendent for Business Services. Fees must be paid in advance of the scheduled activity. Users will be provided a copy of the approved Facilities Request Form and a copy of the use contract and will have priority over walk-on users of the facility.

Fees Schedule   (Revised July 2006)

*Custodial coverage: $20.00/hour

Gymnasiums: $20.00/hour+ custodian as necessary

Classrooms/conference rooms: $20.00/hour+ custodian as necessary

Commons (no kitchen use)  $20.00/hour+ custodian as necessary

Commons (kitchen use as arranged with

Director of Food Service    $60.00/hour+ custodian as necessary

Computer Labs   $60.00/hour+ custodian as necessary

Computer Technician: $25.00/hour

Richardson Field, Track, Baseball field Maestas field (field use only)  $75.00/hour+ custodian as necessary

Richardson Field, Track, Baseball field

Maestas Field day time use including lining, public address, restrooms,                                   $500.00/event+ custodian as necessary

Richardson Field, night time use including lining, public address, restrooms,                        $700.00/event+ custodian as necessary

District Auditorium:  no lights/sound   $40.00/hour + custodian as necessary

**District Auditorium: lights/sound  $75.00/hour +technician +custodian as necessary

*Custodial fee not assessed if the custodian is on duty as part of his/her regularly assigned responsibilities.

**District Auditorium lights and sound may not be operated without a trained District technician present.

Sites to develop use guidelines for each of the areas listed above.

Policy Code: KH (II. – 19.)

Policy Name: Fund Raising

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised: October 6, 1997

Reviewed: January, 2007

It is recognized that the raising of funds for projects to benefit the school district and its students in particular is both necessary and beneficial. It is further recognized that there must be some guidelines placed on fund raising by the district to protect the community from constant requests from additional funds by the staff and students. For the purpose of establishing these guidelines, fund raising is divided into three categories:

Funds raised by school district sanctioned student organizations for projects directly benefiting the students:

Each project must be approved in advance by the building administrator and the Superintendent. Approval is contingent upon the worthiness of the project and the number of other fund raising projects underway at the same time in other district schools.

Funds raised by school district parent support groups or by community organizations hosting projects which will directly benefit the district, its inhabitants or its students:

It is recognized that the school district cannot authorize or prohibit the raising of funds by parents or community groups. However, student involvement in these projects during school hours is under the control of the district. Community organizations or parent support groups are encouraged to present their projects to the Board of Education prior to initiating them for Board sanction if the intent of the project is to benefit the district. The Board shall determine the allowed school time involvement of students in a project when it is presented to them.

Funds raised by organizations which are not affiliated with the school and which are not primarily community based:

Student participation in fund raising efforts by groups outside School District 14 is not permitted during school time or on school premises. No student assemblies designed to introduce and promote fund raising shall be held and fund raising information sheets are not to be passed out by the school offices or by individual staff members.

Policy Code: KHA

Policy Name: Volunteer Group Projects

Adoption: November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed: January, 2007

The school district will approve no projects from anyone on or off school property unless funds are available in advance to pay for such projects or sufficient evidence is shown that funds will become available in a timely manner.

Policy Name:          District-Wide Conduct and Discipline Policy

Adoption:                November, 1995

Revised:                  July, 2001

Reviewed:              June, 2007

The Board of Education of and for School District #14, El Paso County, Colorado, pursuant to its responsibility under the Colorado School Attendance Law of 1963, adopts the following definitions, policy, and procedures:

SECTION A. Definitions: The following definitions shall be applied to administer this act.

1. “Parent” means the mother or father of a child, or any other person having                             custody of a child.

2. “Board of Education” means the Board of Education for the district.

3. “Superintendent” means the Superintendent of Schools as executive director.

4. “Academic Year” means the calendar of school days between late August and early June, as authorized by the Board of Education.

5. “One Year” means twelve consecutive months.

6. “Child” means a person not less than the age authorized for enrollment in this  district, and not more than twenty-one years of age.

7. “Student” means any child enrolled in the schools of the district.

8. “Principal” means the chief administrator of an individual school, or his or her designated representative in his or her absence.

9. “Cause” means the fact or facts supporting an action to suspend, expel, or deny admission.

10. “Suspension” means the interruption of attendance at a school as an act of a school administrator. Inter-school transfers for non-disciplinary educational reasons shall not be considered under this code as suspension, expulsion, or denial of admission. Removal from a class or combination of classes with  placement in other classes, except study halls, in the same school shall not be considered under this code as suspension, expulsion, or denial of admission.

11. “Expulsion” means the termination of enrollment of a student as an action authorized by the Board of Education.

12. “Denial of Admission” means the withholding of the privilege of enrollment.

13. “School” means the individual attendance unit facility within the district.

14. “Truancy” means the act of being absent from a class or school without permission or other lawful excuse.

15. An “Habitually Disruptive Student” is one who has been suspended out of school three times for a material and substantial disruption in the classroom, on school grounds, in school vehicles, or at school-sponsored activities. After the first out-of-school suspension for disruption, a remedial discipline plan will be developed by the administration with possible input from the student, parents and counselors. This remedial plan will be reviewed and modified, if necessary, after a second suspension is imposed for another disruption infraction. If a third out-of-school suspension is required for an additional disruptive act, this suspension will be extended, pending an expulsion hearing.

16. “Remedial Discipline Plan” means a written plan developed after the first out-  of-school suspension for a material and substantial disruption in a school  year. It will specify penalties for further disruptive acts and include a behavioral contract between the administrator and student.

17. “Habitually Truant” means a child who has attained the age of seven and who is under the age of sixteen years, having four unexcused absences in any one month or ten unexcused absences from school during any school year.

18. “Dangerous Weapon” means a firearm, whether loaded or unloaded; a  firearm facsimile; any pellet or BB gun or other device, whether operational or not, designed to propel projectiles by spring action or compressed air; a fixed  blade knife with a blade that measures longer than three inches in length or a spring loaded knife or a pocket knife with a blade longer than three and one- half inches; or any object, device, instrument, material, or substance, whether animate or inanimate, used or intended to be used to inflict death or serious bodily injury.

SECTION B. Grounds for Suspension, Expulsion, and Denial of Admission

1. The following shall be grounds for suspension or expulsion of a child from a public school during a school year:

(a) Continued willful disobedience or open and persistent defiance of proper authority.

(b) Willful destruction of defacing of school property.

(c) Behavior on or off school property which is detrimental to the welfare or safety of other pupils or of school personnel, including behavior which creates a threat of physical harm to the student or to other students; except that, if the student who creates such threat is a student with a disability pursuant to section 22-20-103 (1.5), such student may not be expelled if the actions creating the threat are a manifestation of such student’s disability. However, the student shall be removed from the classroom to an appropriate alternative setting within the district for a length of time which is consistent with federal law. Within ten days, the school in which the student is enrolled shall arrange for a reexamination of his or her IEP to amend the plan as necessary to insure that the needs of the student are addressed in a more appropriate manner or setting which is less disruptive to other  students.

(c.5) Declaration as an habitually disruptive student, for which expulsion shall be mandatory. In order for a student to be declared habitually disruptive, a remedial discipline plan must be developed after the  first out-of-school suspension for a material and substantial disruption.

(d) Serious violations in a school building, or in or on school property,  which suspension or expulsion shall be mandatory; except that  expulsion shall be mandatory for the following violations; carrying, bringing, using, or processing a dangerous weapon as defined in  section 18-1-901 (3) (e), C.R.S.; or the commission of an act which, if  committed by an adult, would be robbery pursuant to part 3 of article 4 of title 18, C.R.S., or assault pursuant to part 2 of article 3 of title 18, C.R.S.

(e) Repeated interference with a school’s ability to provide educational opportunities to other students.

2. The following shall be grounds for expulsion from, or denial of, admission to a public school.

(a) Physical or mental disability such that the child cannot reasonably benefit from the programs available.

(b) Physical or mental disability or disease such as to cause the attendance of the child suffering therefrom to be inimical to the  welfare of other pupils.

3. The following shall constitute additional grounds for denial of admission to a public school.

(a) Graduation from the twelfth grade of any school or receipt of any document evidencing completion of the equivalent of a secondary curriculum.

(b) Failure to meet the requirements of age, by a child who has reached  the age of six at a time after the beginning of the school year, as fixed by the Board of Education of the district in which the child applies for  enrollment, as provided in section 22-1-115.

(c) Having been expelled from any school district during the preceding twelve months.

(d) Not being a resident of the District, unless otherwise entitled to attend under the provisions of article 23 or 32 of this title.

(e) Failure to comply with the provisions of  part 9 of article 4 of title 25, C.R.S. Any suspension, expulsion, or denial of admission for such failure to comply shall not be recorded as a disciplinary action but may be recorded with the student’s immunization record with an appropriate explanation.

(f) Behavior in another school district during the preceding twelve months that is detrimental to the welfare or safety of other pupils or of school personnel.

SECTION C. Policy: As provided in the School Attendance Law of 1963, the Board of Education for this district:

1. Delegates to the Principal or Assistant Principal of any school within the district the power to suspend a student in the school for not more than five school  days on the grounds specified in Section B 1. (a),1.(b),1.(c),1.(c.5), or 1.(e) or not more than ten school days on the grounds stated in Section B 1.(d), unless expulsion is mandatory pursuant to such provision.

2. Delegates to the Superintendent the power to suspend a student, upon referral from a school, for an additional ten school days, with the provision  that the suspension may be extended, but not to exceed another ten school days if necessary, to present the matter to the next meeting of the Board of Education. the total number of days of suspension by the building administrator and Superintendent shall not exceed thirty days.

3. Delegates to the Superintendent the power to deny admission to, or to expel from the schools of the district, for any period not extending beyond one year, any child whom the Superintendent, in accordance with the limitations imposed by the Law (Section B above), determines does not qualify for admission to, or continuation of attendance at, the public schools of the district. The superintendent shall report on each such case acted upon at the next meeting of the Board.

4. Affirms that an appeal of the decision of the Superintendent may be taken to  the Board. The Board shall conduct a hearing if one is requested by the parent of the child.

5. Designates the Principals and Assistant Principals as attendance officers in  accordance with the provision of the law. It shall be their duty to counsel with students and parents and investigate the causes of nonattendance so as to  enforce the provisions of the law pertaining to compulsory attendance.

SECTION D. Procedures for Suspension, Denial of Admission, and Expulsion

1. Suspension Procedure for Principals:

a. If a Principal deems it necessary to suspend a student, he or she will have a conference with the student explaining the reason for the  suspension, and he or she will allow the student to tell his or her side of the problem before a final decision of suspension is made. The parent will be notified of the action by telephone, a home visit, or delivery of a written notice. The parent will also be notified that the  parent, with the consent of all of the student’s teachers, may attend  class with the pupil for a period of time specified by the suspending   authority as an alternative to the suspension. If the teachers do not consent to have the parent attend class, or if the parent does not agree to attend class or fails to attend class with the student, the pupil  shall be suspended in accordance with the conduct and discipline             code of the district.

b. A notice of suspension shall be delivered orally to the parent or sent b U.S. certified mail to the address on record. Such notice shall identify the student, the date of suspension, the legal grounds for suspension and, at least, the precipitating incident for the suspension. The notice shall request a conference and provide a telephone number for  confirming or seeking a change of the appointment.

c. A conference with the parent shall be arranged at the earliest possible  time during the suspension period and as set in agreement with the parent. An effort shall be made to hold such conference not later than  the third effective day of such suspension period.

d. Such conference shall include the parent and other appropriate  persons. At the conference, relevant portions of the student’s records shall be available for consideration and examination by the parent. The Principal shall consider the available records and statements of all parties in making his or her decision.

e. At the conclusion of the conference, the Principal shall deliver an oral opinion to the parties and, within two school days, he or she shall deliver or mail to the patent a statement of his or her findings and ruling. If the decision is adverse to the student, the Principal shall inform the parent at the end of the conference of his or her right to request a review of the decision.

f.  Following the conference with the parent, and provided that mutual agreement is reached, the student shall be readmitted. If agreement is not reached, the matter shall be referred to the Superintendent prior  to the expiration of the fifth day of suspension, and the parent shall be directed to seek an appointment with the Superintendent.

g. If the parent does not respond to the conference request, or if he or she does not keep the conference appointment within the five-day period of suspension authorized, the Principal shall:

(1) Permit the student to return to school, or

(2) Refer the case to the Superintendent prior to the expiration of the fifth day of suspension with full details and recommendation that the suspension be extended under the Superintendent’s authority. Such referral shall first be by telephone and followed by the written             report, thus enabling the receiving  office to notify the parent of the extended suspension.

h. Suspension shall not be consecutive, nor can a student be suspended                             a second time for the same incident.

i.  A record of all suspensions, including copies of all correspondence, shall be maintained in the name of the student and at the school where he or she is enrolled.

2. Suspension Procedure for Superintendent:

a. When the Superintendent receives a suspension referral, the parent shall be notified by telephone or delivery of written notice.

b. Written notice of continued suspension shall be delivered to the parent or sent by U.S. mail to the address on record. Such notice shall  identify the student, indicate the dates for the suspension period, and  make reference to the Principal’s original notice in which legal grounds and precipitating incidences were set forth. The notice shall request a conference on the matter, set a tentative time for such conference, and provide a telephone number for confirming the appointment or for seeking a change of time or date for the  conference.

c. A conference with the parent shall be arranged at the earliest possible time during the suspension period and as set in agreement with the  parent. An effort shall be made to hold such conference not later than the third effective day of suspension.

d. Such conference shall include the parent and other appropriate  persons. At the conference, relevant portions of the student’s records shall be available for consideration and examination by the parent.  The Superintendent shall consider the available records and the statements of all parties in making his or her decision.

e. At the conclusion of the conference, the Superintendent shall deliver  an oral opinion to the parties, and within three school days he or she shall mail to the parent a written statement of his or her findings and  ruling.

f.  Following the conference with the parent, and provided that mutual  agreement is reached, the student shall be returned to his or her school.

g. If the parent does not respond to the conference request or if he or she does not keep the conference appointment within the suspension period, or if mutual agreement during conference is not reached, the  Superintendent shall extend the suspension for a period not to exceed  an additional ten days.  During this period of suspension, the Superintendent shall summarize the case determine the course of action to be taken, advise the parent of rights and procedures for an appeal to the Board of Education, and forward a detailed report to the Board prior to its next meeting.

h. A record of all suspensions, including copies of all correspondence,  shall be maintained in the name of the student and in the office of the  Superintendent.

3.            Procedure in Denial of Admission:

a. A Principal deeming it necessary to recommend denial of admission to a child requesting enrollment at this school shall make such recommendations to the Superintendent.  The recommendation shall be immediately made by telephone, requesting the earliest possible appointment for the child and the parent. There shall promptly follow a written statement of the grounds and the pertinent supporting information for the recommendation.  One copy of the statement shall be given the parent, one copy shall be sent to the Superintendent, and one copy shall be maintained by the school.

b. The Superintendent shall hold a conference with the parent and child at the earliest possible time and as set in agreement with the parent.

c. At the conclusion of the conference, the Superintendent shall deliver to the parent and the child an oral opinion and, within three school days,  he or she shall mail to the parent a written statement of his or her findings and ruling. If the denial of admission is to be upheld, the statement shall inform the parent of his or her right to request a review of the decision before the Board of Education. If denial of admission is  not upheld, the child shall be promptly enrolled in the appropriate                         school.

e. No child shall be denied admission for any period beyond one year.

f.  Admission may be reconsidered during the same academic year upon the submission of evidence that the grounds for the denial no longer apply. The reconsideration of a case shall be conducted by the  Superintendent under procedures b, c, and d immediately above.

g. A record of denial of admission, including copies of all correspondence, shall be maintained in the name of the child and inthe office of the Superintendent.

4. Procedure in Expulsion of Students:

a. A Principal deeming it necessary to recommend the termination of enrollment of a student at his or her school shall suspend the student as provided in the Suspension Procedure for Principals above. The  notice to the parent shall indicate that expulsion is being             recommended.

b. A Principal deeming it necessary to recommend the termination of  enrollment of a student at his or her school shall make such recommendation to the Superintendent. The recommendation shall be accompanied by a a copy of the notice of suspension to the parent. It shall specify the grounds and incidences on which the recommendation is based. Pertinent information from school records and school personnel shall accompany the recommendation. One copy of the foregoing shall be maintained for the school’s file.

c. The Superintendent shall, upon receipt of the recommendation for expulsion of a student, so notify the parent. He/she shall request a conference on the matter, setting a tentative time for such a conference  and provide a telephone number for confirming or seeking a change of                         the appointment.

d. A conference with the parent shall be arranged at the earliest possible time after receipt of the referral and at a time as set in agreement with the parent.

e. Such conference shall include the parent and other appropriate persons. At such conference relevant portions from the student’s school records shall be available for consideration and for examination by the parent. The Superintendent shall consider the record and the statements of all parties in reaching his or her decision.

f.  At the conclusion of the conference the Superintendent shall deliver an oral opinion to the parties and, within three school days, he or she shall mail to the parent a written statement of his or her findings and ruling. If the decision is adverse to the student, such statement shall inform the parent of his or her right to request a review of the decision before the Board. If the recommendation for expulsion is not up held,  arrangements for the student’s return to the appropriate school shall be                         ordered.

g. Upon completion of the conference, a detailed report of pertinent  information and the action taken shall be prepared and forwarded to the Board prior to its next meeting.

h. No student shall be expelled for a period extending beyond one year.

i.  Readmission may be considered during the period of expulsion if the  parent presents evidence that corrective actions to relieve the cause of the expulsion have been taken. The Principal, upon receiving such evidence, shall telephone or write the Superintendent requesting a review of the case. Such review shall be in a conference arranged by the Superintendent and shall include the parent, the expelled student, the Principal, and other appropriate persons. The oral opinion, the written statement, and the report to the Board shall follow the procedures set forth in paragraphs “f” and “g” above.

SECTION E. Miscellaneous Provisions

1. Written communication required in carrying out the provision of these policies and procedures shall be in English and, if in the judgment of the administrator involved be deemed necessary, in the language of the student’s home if is other than English.

2. Exclusion from a single class for not more than three consecutive days shall not be included under this code as a suspension.

3. Transfers within a school for academic reasons shall not be included under this code as suspension or expulsion.

4. Transfers between schools for academic reasons and as agreed upon between the parent and the two schools involved shall not be included under this code as suspension or expulsion.

5. Transfers between schools which are agreed upon by the parent and the two schools involved, as an alternative to suspension or expulsion, shall not be included under this code as suspension or expulsion.

6. The availability and examination of a student’s record’s at a conference shall be governed by provisions of the Open Records Law.

7. The Board shall receive a report of each expulsion or denial of admission.

8. Upon written request of the parent, the Board of Education shall conduct a hearing in an expulsion or denial of admission. At such hearing, the child or student and the parent, personally or through a representative, may make a statement and present evidence. Such statements and evidence may be oral or in writing.

9. If the Board, by majority vote, determines that the expulsion or denial of admission was justified, the parent shall be provided a written statement of the decision and supporting reasons. If the Board finds that the denial of admission or expulsion is not further justified, the child shall be admitted or returned to the appropriate school.

10. Suspensions shall be used as a last resort after other methods for the treatment and correction of problems have been unsuccessful. However, if a violation of school rules or an act of misconduct is, in the judgment of school officials, sufficiently serious, nothing in these procedures shall prevent suspension without exhaustion of other methods.

11. The rights and entitlements of these policies and procedures may be waived or modified by the parent or by an attorney representing the child upon request of the parent.

12. No student shall be suspended or expelled for failure to participate in religious or patriotic activities conducted at or by the school. However, disruptive behavior in participation or nonparticipation may be cause for suspension.

13. No student shall be suspended or expelled for failure to participate in religious activities unless such activities are disruptive, violate established regulations, or incite defiance of proper authority.

14. The following conduct or conditions, if occurring on or off school  property, may be causes for the suspension or expulsion of students,  but such enumeration of conduct or conditions shall not be exclusive or deemed to be a limitation on the causes for suspension or expulsion of a student:

a. Continuing academic failure

b. Extortion

c. Fighting

d. Gambling

e. Hazing/Intimidation and Bullying

f.  Immoral conduct

g. Insubordination

h. Persistent or recurring disobedience or disorder

i.  Physical abuse or intimidation of another person

j.  Poor personal hygiene

k. Possession, sale, distribution, or use of fireworks, firearms, or paraphernalia

capable of inflicting bodily harm

l.  Possession, sale, distribution, or use of narcotics, drugs, or alcohol

m.Possession, sale, or distribution of obscene literature or objects

n. Possession, or use of tobacco products on school property or while a participant in a

school activity or event

o. Tardiness

p. Theft or pilfering

q. Truancy

r.  Vulgar and profane language

s. Defacing, damaging, or destroying of property

t.  Gang-related behavior

u. Acts of violence

15. Each school in the district shall develop a Conduct and Discipline Policies and Procedures document which shall identify the above conditions as unacceptable behavior and outline consequences, including suspension and  expulsion for infractions of the above and other unacceptable behaviors identified at the school level. These Conduct and Discipline Policies and Procedures shall be approved by the Board of Education and become a part  of this policy.

16. Each student in the school shall be given the district policy and the school- level Conduct and Discipline Policies and Procedures. The school-level Conduct and Discipline Policies and Procedures for the other schools in the district shall be made available to the student upon request.

17. The school’s Conduct and Discipline Policies and Procedures shall be posted in the school, and students shall be informed of any significant changes to the document during a school year.

JKG
Expulsion Prevention

JLCCA
Students with Bloodborne  Pathogens

JLCDA
Students with Food Allergies

JLCE (X. 13.)
Emergency Medical Assistance

JLCG
Medicaid Reimbursement

JLCG-R
Medicaid Reimbursement

JLDAC (X. – 26.)
Medical Practices/Psychological Testing of Students

JLF (X. – 20.)
Child Abuse Reporting

JLIA (VI. – 15.)
Educational Process and  Supervision Defined

JQ (X. – 19.)
Student Fees, Fines and Charges

JRA
Student Records/Release of Information on Students (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)

JRCA
Sharing of Student Records/Information between School District and State Agencies

JS (IX. – 19.)
Student use of Electronic  Information Resources

Policy Code:         JKBA

Policy Name:       Disciplinary Removal from Classroom

Adoption:            July, 2007

It is the policy of the Board of Education to maintain classrooms in which student behavior does not interfere with the ability of the teacher to teach effectively or the ability of other students to participate in classroom learning activities.

Students shall be expected to abide by the code of conduct adopted by the Board and any other appropriate classroom rules of behavior established by the building principal and/or classroom teacher for the purpose of maintaining order and a favorable academic atmosphere.  Any student who violates the code of conduct or other classroom rules may be subject to removal from class and/or disciplinary action.

Student removal from class is a serious measure and should not be imposed in an arbitrary, casual or inconsistent manner.  Behavioral expectations are always more constructive and more likely to be followed when they are communicated as clearly as possible to students.  However, it is neither possible nor necessary to specify every type of improper or inappropriate behavior, or every circumstance that would justify removal from class under this policy.  Teachers are expected to exercise their best professional judgment in deciding whether it is appropriate to remove a student from class in any particular circumstance.  All instances of formal removal from class shall be documented.

A teacher is authorized to immediately remove a student from the teacher’s classroom if the student’s behavior:

1.      violates the code of conduct adopted by the Board;

2.      is dangerous, unruly, or disruptive; or

3.      seriously interferes with the ability of the teacher to teach the class or other students to learn.

A student with a disability may be removed from class and placed in an alternative educational setting only to the extent authorized by state and federal laws and regulations.

Removal from class under this policy does not prohibit the district from pursuing or implementing additional disciplinary measures, including but not limited to detentions, suspensions, or expulsions for the conduct or behavior for which the student was removed.

LEGAL REF.:      C.R.S. 22-32-109.1 (2)(a)(II)

Policy Code:        JKG

Policy Name:      Expulsion Prevention

Adoption:           July, 2007

District personnel shall enforce provisions of the student code of conduct so that students demonstrating unacceptable behavior and their parents, guardians or legal custodians understand that such behavior shall not be tolerated and shall be dealt with according to the code.

However, it is the belief of the Board of Education that all available alternatives should be explored to help students who are at risk of expulsion before expulsion becomes a necessary step.  Expulsion shall be regarded as a punishment of last resort unless a student’s behavior would cause imminent harm to others in the school, or when state law or the school’s conduct and discipline codes require automatic expulsion.   The principal of each school shall work with the professional staff to identify students who are at risk of suspension or expulsion.  Among those students who may be at risk are those who have been or are likely to be declared habitually truant or habitually disruptive.

The district, working with the student’s parent/guardian, shall provide students who are identified as at risk of suspension or expulsion with a plan to provide necessary support services to help them avoid expulsion.  Services may include:

1.   educational services (tutoring, alternative educational programs or vocational programs that provide instruction in the academic areas of reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies).

2.  counseling services.

3.  referral to drug or alcohol addiction treatment programs.

4.  referral to family support services.

The failure of the school district to identify a student for participation in an expulsion prevention program or the failure of such program to remediate a student’s behavior shall not be grounds to prevent school personnel from proceeding with appropriate disciplinary measures.

LEGAL REF.:      C.R.S. 22-33-202

Policy Code:         JLCCA

Policy Name:       Students with Bloodborne  Pathogens

Adopted:              March 29, 1999

Revised:

Reviewed:           January, 2007

Students with Bloodborne Pathogens

Bloodborne pathogens is a subject of particular public concern. Bloodborne pathogens are microorganisms in human blood that can cause disease in humans, and include Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which causes AIDS. These are diseases for which there is no known cure and which, under certain circumstances, can be readily transmissible in the school environment. transmission is by coming into contact with body fluids from an infected person that enter the bloodstream or mucous membranes of a noninfected person.

Students covered by this policy include but is not limited to:

1.            Those diagnosed medically as having AIDS;

2.             Those diagnosed medically as having an illness due to infection with HIV, but                         who do not meet the case definition for AIDS;

3.            Those who are asymptomatic, but who have been diagnosed medically as                                     being infected with HIV; and

4.            Those suspected of being infected with HIV.

5.            Those diagnosed medically as having Hepatitis B.

Information regarding a student’s infection or suspected infection with a bloodborne pathogen is strictly confidential medical information. Confidentiality is of paramount importance. Rumors regarding any individual’s medical status are potentially very harmful and are strongly discouraged.

Standard safety and health practices appropriate for protecting against transmission of diseases shall be applied in circumstances where any student requires first aid, regardless of health status. Handling of body fluids and substances shall be accomplished in accordance with such practices. All body fluids and substances shall be treated as infectious.

In all proceedings related to this policy, the District shall respect the student’s right of privacy. Only those persons with a direct need to know shall be informed of the specific nature of the student’s condition. The determination of those who need to know shall be made by the Superintendent. Only the Superintendent of Schools will be authorized to speak for the School District on this subject.

Legal Reference:

C.R.S. 25-4-1401 et  seq

Policy Code:            JLCE (X. 13.)

Policy Name:          Emergency Medical Assistance

Adoption:               November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:              January, 2007

When the school district deems it necessary to call a doctor or other emergency medical assistance for a child during school hours, it is the responsibility of the parent to pay the medical fee. Whenever possible, the listed family doctor will be called. However, in emergencies or when the family doctor cannot be located, the district reserves the right to contact emergency medical assistance.

Policy Code:            JLCG

Policy Name:          Medicaid Reimbursement

Adoption:                February 25, 2002

Revised:

Reviewed:              January, 2007

Manitou Springs School District 14 will seek reimbursement for health-related services provided to students who are enrolled in the Colorado Medicaid Program. Health and related services include, but are not limited to professional services provided by audiologists, nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech pathologists and other qualified district staff.

Legal Reference:

C.R.S.  26-4-531

Pub. L. 100-360, July 1, 1988

(Medicare Catastrophic coverage Act of 1988)

Policy Code:            JLCG-R

Policy Name:          Medicaid Reimbursement

Adoption:                Unknown

Revised:

Reviewed:               January, 2007

As a Medicaid provider, Manitou Springs School District 14 will access Medicaid eligibility information for students from Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF).

HCPF is the designated Medicaid agency for the state of Colorado.

Directory information, including names, date of birth and gender will be released to HCPG to verify Medicaid eligibility of students. The description of health services delivered and information needed to complete claims shall be released to Medicaid and/or the district billing agent for proper administration of the program.

Any parent/guardian or eligible student (18 years of age or older) who does not want to participate in the Medicaid program must notify the school in writing. Unless notified, the district may begin billing within two weeks of enrollment. Parent/guardian or eligible student may, at any time, complete a refusal form. Medicaid refusal forms may be obtained from the school district administrative offices.

All ongoing health and related services will be provided by qualified district staff. A reasonable effort to coordinate care with the student’s health care provider will be made to avoid duplication of services.

Legal Reference:

C.R.S. 26-4-531

Pub. L. 100-360, July 1, 1998

(Medicare Catastrophic coverage Act of 1988)

Policy Code:            JLDAC (X. – 26.)

Policy Name:          Medical Practices/Psychological Testing of Students

Adoption:                November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:              January, 2007

It is the policy of the Board of Education that only those persons appropriately certified or licensed, pursuant to the Medical Practices Act, C.R.S. 12-36-101 et seq or other relevant licensing statutes, may expose pupils to any psychiatric or psychological methods or procedures. These actions may be carried out after prior written notice to the parents of the students in question and acquisition of parental consent. This policy applies to all K-12 educational programs and course of instruction or study approved by the Board of Education.

For the purpose of this policy, “psychiatric or psychological methods or procedures” shall mean the formal diagnosis or assessment of an individual or groups for the purpose of gathering data to be used in the treatment of any emotional, behavioral, or mental disorder.

notification to parents under this policy shall include the purpose of the diagnosis, assessments or treatment and of the specific method or procedure to be employed.

Any member of the teaching staff who questions whether and activity comes within the parameters of this policy shall consult and collaborate with the Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Services and a certified school psychologist.

This policy does not apply to the factual and unbiased teaching of psychiatry as a medical science or psychology as a social science.

Policy Code:            JLF (X. – 20.)

Policy Name:          Child Abuse Reporting

Adoption:                November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:               January, 2007

Because the Board of Education, staff, and administration of School District 14 believe that the learning potential of an abused or neglected student is critically impaired and because the Colorado Child Protection Act of 1975, as amended, mandates specific responsibilities of school employees in the reporting of known and suspected child abuse and neglect, the staff and administration of this district will report child abuse and neglect where known or suspected.

Staff members who know of a child abuse or neglect situation or who suspect such a situation exists are to immediately report this to their building principal. In turn, the building principal must report the instance to the El Paso County Social Services Abuse Prevention and Reporting Division. If a staff member wishes to make a child abuse report directly to Social Services they are entitled to do so under state statute. Staff members are still strongly encourage to discuss the matter with their building principal before making a report. Staff members must notify the principal immediately if they do make an abuse report.

Child abuse reports given verbally must be immediately followed by a written report to County Social Services. The report shall include, if possible, the following information:

1. the name, address, age, sex and race of the child;

2. the name and address of the person responsible for the suspected abuse or neglect;

3. the nature and extent of the child’s injuries, including any evidence of previous cases o known or suspected abuse or neglect of the child or the child’s siblings;

4. the names and addresses of the persons responsible for the suspected abuse or neglect, if known;

5. the family composition;

6. the source of the report and the name, address, and occupation of the person making the report;

7. any action taken by the reporting source;

8. any other information that the person making the report believes may be helpful in furthering the purpose of this law.

A copy of this report is also to be submitted to the office of the Superintendent.

Any staff members participating in goof faith in the making of a child abuse of neglect report pursuant to the state’s child abuse statute shall be immune from any liability, civil or criminal, or termination of employment that otherwise might result by reason of such acts of participation, unless a court of competent jurisdiction determines that such person’s behavior was willful, wanton, and malicious.

Any staff member who has reasonable cause to know or suspect that a child has been subjected to abuse or neglect and who does not report this is in violation of state statute and is committing a class 3 misdemeanor.

All staff members shall receive a copy of the Child Abuse statute so they will be knowledgeable of the definition of child abuse and, abuse and neglect, and their responsibility for reporting under the statute. Further, all district teachers shall be provided and in service on child abuse which shall provide:

1. information about the child protection act of 1975, as amended,

2. instruction designed to assist teachers in recognizing child abuse or neglect, and

3. instruction designed to provide teachers with information on how to report suspected incidents of child abuse or neglect and how to assist the child victim and his or her family.

Legal Reference:

C.R.S. 19 – 3 – 301

C.R.S. 19 – 3 – 303 (l) (a)

C.R.S. 19 – 3 – 304

C.R.S. 19 – 3 – 307

C.R.S. 19 – 3 – 309

C.R.S. 19 – 1- 120 (l) (a)

C.R.S. 22 – 32 -  109 (l) (2)

Policy Code:           JLIA (VI. – 15.)

Policy Name:          Educational Process and  Supervision Defined

Adoption:               November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:              January, 2007

In accordance with the requirements of the Public School Finance Act of 1988, as amended, the Board of Education defines the terms “educational process: and “supervision by a certified teacher” as follows:

1. “Educational Process” Includes all phases of instructional and supervisory interaction which may be formal within the context of the presentation of a lesson or during a study period. If includes, as well, periods of time when the interaction is less formal such as during recess or passing time between classes. The school lunch period is not included within the scope of this definition.

2. “Supervision by a Certified Teacher” refers to any time during the school day, exclusive of lunch when a certified employee of the school district is responsible for monitoring students within the educational process.

For the purposes of establishing the school day and hour requirements of the State, School District 14 establishes school time and the education process as beginning with the tardy bell at the beginning of the day and ending with the final dismissal bell at the end of the school day excluding the school’s designated lunch period.

Policy Code:            JQ (X. – 19.)

Policy Name:           Student Fees, Fines and Charges

Adoption:                 November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:               January, 2007

In accordance with the State Board of Education regulations, the school district is to levy no textbook-workbook or material fees for items need in required courses. Also, there shall be no textbook-workbook or material feeds for any courses offered within the school. An assessment may be made for personal use materials. No student will be kept out of any class or be deprived of any needed materials if they are unable to pay. The guidelines set for the free lunch program may be used as one method of determining need for all materials to be free. Administrators can consider any mitigating circumstances in providing free materials so that no student is denied the right and privilege of taking any course offered within the system. Students will be charged for excessive damage to provided materials and books and for loss of books. There will be no charge for normal wear and tear of books and materials.

Legal Reference:

C.R.S. 22 – 32 – 109 (u)

C.R.S. 22 – 32 – 116 (o)

Policy Code:         JRA

Policy Name:            Student Records/Release of Information on Students (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)

Adoption:                  November, 1995

Revised:                    September 25, 2006

• Content and custody of records/information

Student education records may contain, but will not necessarily be limited to, the following information: identifying data; academic work competed; level of achievement (grades, standardized achievement test scores); attendance data; scores on standardized intelligence, aptitude and psychological tests; interest inventory results; health and medical information; family background information; teacher or counselor ratings and observations, and reports of serious or recurrent behavior patterns.

Education records do not include records maintained by a law enforcement unit of the school or school district that are created by that unit for the purpose of law enforcement.

Nothing in this policy shall prevent administrators, teachers or staff from disclosing information derived from personal knowledge or observation and not derived from a student’s education records.

All requests for inspection and review of student education records and requests for copies of such records, as well as disclosure of personally identifiable information except as provided by law, shall be maintained as a part of each student’s record.

The principal is the official custodian of student records in his or her building.

• Access to records by parent

A parent/guardian (“parent”) and any student 18 years old or older, has the right to inspect and review the student’s education files. If a student is 18 years old or older (“eligible student’), the parent or guardian may not inspect or review the student records without written permission from the student. However, if an eligible student is a dependent for federal income tax purposes, parents/guardians are entitled along with the student to access to student educational records.

During inspection and review of student records by a parent or eligible student and when requested by them, the principal will provide the personnel necessary to give explanations and interpretations of the students records.

In all cases where access to student records is requested, except as provided in this policy, a written request to see the files must be made by the parent or eligible student. The principal, upon receipt of the written request, shall provide access to inspect and review the records and set a date and time for such inspection and review. In no case will the date set be more than three working days after the request has been made.

The patent of eligible student shall examine the student’s records in the presence of the principal and/ or other person(s) designated by the principal.

Only licensed personnel such as the vice principal or counselor may be so designated.

The record itself shall not be taken from the school building. However, upon request, one copy of the record shall be proved with a reasonable time to the parent or eligible student at a cost of .10 per page.

• Requesting records from other school districts

When a student transfers to this school district from another district, the receiving school shall request the student’s records from the transferring district if the records have not already been forwarded to the receiving school.

• Transferring records to other school districts/post secondary institutions

Student records, including disciplinary records, may be transferred without consent to officials of another school, school system, or post secondary institution that has requested the records and in which the student seeks or intends to enroll. The district will provide a copy of the record to the eligible student or student’s parents if so requested.

• Requesting and receiving information and records from state/local agencies

Within the bounds of state law, school district personnel shall seek to obtain such information regarding students as is required to perform their legal duties and responsibilities, including protecting public safety and the safety of the student. Such information may be obtained from the judicial department or any state agency that performs duties and functions under the Colorado Children’s Code.

School district personnel receiving such information shall use it only in the performance of their legal duties and responsibilities and shall other wise maintain the confidentiality of all information obtained.

If such information is shared with another school or school district to which a student may be transferring, it shall only be shared in compliance with the requirements of

Federal law, including the Family Education rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (“FERPA”).

• Request to amend education records

A parent or eligible student may ask the district to amend a record they believe is inaccurate, misleading or otherwise violates the privacy rights of the student by writing to the school principal clearly identifying the part of the record they want changed and specifying why it is inaccurate, misleading or otherwise violates the privacy rights of the student. The request to the principal to amend a student’s records must be made in writing within 10 school days of the date the records were first examined.

If the principal, after consulting with any other person having relevant information, decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the principal shall notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures shall be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

A request for a formal hearing must be made in writing and addressed to the superintendent of schools. The response to the request shall be mailed within 10 school days. The hearing shall be held in accordance with the following:

• The hearing will be held within 15 school days after receipt of the request. Notice of the date, place and time of the hearing will be forwarded to the parent or eligible student by certified mail.

• The hearing will be conducted by a principal or an Assistant Superintendent  as designated in writing by the superintendent. The official conducting the hearing shall not be the principal who made the initial decision nor shall it be anyone with a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing.

• Parents or eligible student shall be afforded a full and fair opportunity to present evidence relevant to the issues raised and may be assisted or represented by individuals or their choice at their own expense, including an attorney.

• The official designated above shall make a decision in writing within 10 school days following the conclusion of the hearing and shall notify the parent or eligible student of that decision by certified mail.

• The decision of the official shall be based upon the evidence presented at the hearing and shall include a summary of the evidence and the reason for the decision.

• The decision shall include a statement informing the patents or eligible student of their right to place in the student records a statement commenting upon the information in the records and/or setting forth any reason for disagreement. Any explanation placed in the records shall be maintained by the school district. If the student record is disclosed by the school to any other party, the explanation shall also be disclosed to that party.

7.     Disclosure with written consent

Whenever the district is required by law or policy to seek written consent prior to disclosing personally identifiable information regarding a student, the notice provided to the parent/guardian or eligible student shall contain the following:

• The specific records to be released
• The specific reasons for such release
• The specific identify of any person, agency or organization requesting such information and the intended uses of the information

• The method or manner by which the records will be released
• The right to review or receive a copy of the records to be released

Parental consent shall only be valid for the specific instance for which it was given. Consent for a student to participate in any course, school activity special education or in any other school program shall not constitute the specific written consent required.

8.   Disclosure without written consent

The school district will disclose personally identifiable information from student records without written consent of the parent or eligible student only to those persons or entities allowed under federal or state law to receive such information.

The school district may disclose group scholastic achievement data from which the individual cannot be identified without written consent of the parent or eligible student.

9.    Disclosure of disciplinary information to school personnel

In accordance with state law, the principal or designee is required to communicate

disciplinary information concerning any student enrolled in the school to any

teacher who has direct contact with the student in the classroom and to any

counselor who has direct contact with the student. The purpose of this requirement

is to keep school personnel apprised of situations that could pose a risk to the

safety and welfare of others.

For purposes of this policy, “disciplinary information” means confidential records maintained by or in possession of the principal or designee on an individual student which indicate the student has committed an overt and willful act which

constitutes a violation of the district’s code of student conduct and/or there is reasonable cause to believe, through information provided to the principal from another credible source, that the student could pose a threat to the health and

safety of other students and school personnel based on prior misbehavior “Disciplinary information” is intended to include only that information of a serious nature that is not otherwise available to teachers and counselors as part of the education records maintained on students or other reports of disciplinary actions. It is appropriate for instructional staff members to request disciplinary information from the principal or designee on students in their classrooms if there is concern that the student poses a threat to the safety of other students or school officials.

Any teacher or counselor to whom disciplinary information is reported shall maintain the confidentiality of the information and shall not communicate it to any other person.

• Disclosure to military recruiting officers

Names, addresses and home telephone numbers, as well as directory information, of secondary school students will be released to military recruiting officers within 90 days of the request unless a parent/guardian or eligible student submits

a written request that such information not be released. Reasonable and customary actual expenses directly incurred by the district in furnishing this information will be paid by the requesting service.

11.   Disclosure to Medicaid

In all cases in which a student is enrolled in the Colorado Medicaid program, the district shall release directory information consisting of the student’s name, date of birth and gender to Health Care Policy and Financing (Colorado’s Medicaid agency) to verify Medicaid eligibility of students. The district shall obtain written consent annually from a parent/guardian before the release of any non-

directory information required for billing.

12.    Disclosure to criminal justice agencies

The superintendent or designee is authorized by law to share disciplinary and attendance information with a criminal justice agency investigating a criminal matter

concerning a student enrolled or who will enroll in the school district when necessary to effectively serve the student prior to trial. Such information shall only be shared upon written certification by the criminal justice agency that the information will not be disclosed to any other party, except as specifically authorized or required by law, without the prior written consent of the student’s parent/guardian.

13.    Disclosure to other parties

Except as noted in this policy, student records will not be released to other individuals and parties without a written request and authorization of the parent or eligible student. Personal information will only be released to a third party with the assurance it will be kept confidential.

14.            Disclosure of directory information

The school district may disclose directory information without written consent of the parent or eligible student. The parent or eligible student has the right to refuse to permit the designation of any or all of the categories of directory information if such refusal is received in writing in the office of the principal of the school where the student is in attendance no later than September 1 or the following Monday if September 1 is a Saturday or Sunday.  Directory information which may be released may include  the student’s name, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, the most recent previous education agency or institution attended by the student, and other similar information. Student telephone numbers and addresses will not be disclosed pursuant to Colorado law.

15.            Annual notification of rights

The district will notify patents and eligible students of their rights pursuant to this policy at the beginning of each academic year. The notice will be in the form provided on exhibit JRA/JRC-E. For notice to parents or eligible students who are disabled or whose primary or home language is other than English, the format or method of notice will be modified so it is reasonably likely to inform them of their rights.

A copy of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and this policy on student records shall be on file in the office of each building principal and of each individual who carries out procedures relative to the act or policy.

LEGAL REFS.:            20 U.S.C. 1232G (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)20 U.S.C. 7908 (military recruiter information contained in No Child Left Behind Act of 2001) 34 C.F.R. 99.1 et seq. (FERPA regulations) Pub. L. 100-360, July 1, 1998 (Medicare Catastrophic Coverage Act of 1998)

C.R.S. 19-1-303 and 304 (records and information sharing under Colorado

Children’s Code)

C.R.S.22-1-122 (district shall comply with FERPA)

C.R.S. 22-32-109.1 (6) (duty to establish policy on sharing information consistent with state and federal law in the interest of making school safe)

C.R.S. 22-32-109.3 (2) (duty to share disciplinary and attendance information with criminal justice agencies)

C.R.S.22-33-106.5 (court to notify of conviction of crime of violence and unlawful sexual behavior)

C.R.S. 22-33-107.5 (school district to notify of failure to attend school)

C.R.S. 24-72-204 (3) (a) (VI) (schools cannot disclose address and phone number without consent)

C.R.S. 24-72-204 (3) (d) (information to military recruiters)

C.R.S. 24-72-204 (3) (e) (I) (certain FERPA provisions enacted into Colorado Law)

C.R.S. 24-72-204 (3) (e) (II) (disclosure by staff of information gained through

personal  knowledge or observation)

C.R.S. 26-4-531 (district who contract to receive federal funds for health services for students receiving Medicaid  benefits may share information as allowed by patent/guardian)

Policy Code:         JRCA

Policy Name:       Sharing of Student Records/Information between School District and State Agencies

Adoption:             July, 2007

It is the Board of Education’s intention to utilize all avenues under state law to facilitate the sharing of relevant student records and information when necessary to protect the safety and welfare of school district staff, visitors, students, and the public and to protect property.

The superintendent is directed to develop procedures and a training program for staff consistent with this policy.  The procedures shall direct school district personnel to provide and obtain student records and information to/from state agencies, including law enforcement and judicial department agencies, to the extent required or allowed by state and federal law.

Sharing of information by the school district

Disciplinary and attendance information shall only be shared with a criminal justice agency investigating a criminal matter concerning a student enrolled or who will enroll in the school district when necessary to effectively serve the student prior to adjudication.  Such information shall only be shared upon written certification by the criminal justice agency that the information will not be disclosed to any other party, except as specifically authorized or required by law, without the prior written consent of the student’s parent/guardian.

School personnel who share disciplinary and attendance information concerning a student pursuant to this policy are immune from civil and criminal liability if they act in good faith compliance with state law.

Nothing in this policy shall prevent administrators, teachers or staff from disclosing information derived from personal knowledge or observation and not derived from student’s education records.

Information obtained from state agencies

Within the bounds of state law, school district personnel shall seek to obtain such information regarding students as is required to perform their legal duties and responsibilities, including to protect public safety and safety of the student.  Such information may be obtained from the judicial department or any state agency that performs duties and functions under the Colorado Children’s Code.

School district personnel receiving such information shall use it only in the performance of their legal duties and responsibilities and shall otherwise maintain the confidentiality of all information obtained.  School personnel who knowingly violate this provision are subject to disciplinary action pursuant to district policy and to a civil penalty of up to $1,000.

If such information is shared with another school or school district to which a student may be transferring, it shall only be shared in compliance with the requirements of federal law, including the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (“FERPA”).

When a petition is filed in juvenile court or district court that alleges a student between the ages of 12 to 18 years has committed an offense that would constitute unlawful sexual behavior or a crime of violence if committed by an adult, basic identification information, as defined in state law, along with the details of the alleged delinquent act or offense, is required by law to be provided immediately to the school district in which the juvenile is enrolled.

The information shall be used by the Board of Education or its designee to determine whether the student has exhibited behavior that is detrimental to the safety, welfare, and morals of the other students or school personnel and whether educating the student in the school may disrupt the learning environment in the school, provide a negative example for other students, or create a dangerous and unsafe environment for students, teachers, and other school personnel. The Board or its designee shall take appropriate disciplinary action, which may include suspension or expulsion, in accordance with the student code of conduct and related policies.

LEGAL REFS.:   20 U.S.C. §1232g (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)

34 C.F.R. §99.1 et seq. (Regulations)

C.R.S. 19-1-303 and 304 (records and information sharing under Colorado Children’s Code)

C.R.S. 19-1-304(5.5) (duty of prosecuting attorney to provide juvenile delinquency records)

C.R.S. 22-1-122 (district shall comply with FERPA)

C.R.S. 22-32-109.1(6) (duty to establish policy on sharing information consistent with state and federal law in the interest of making schools safer)

C.R.S. 22-32-109.3 (2) (duty to share disciplinary and attendance information with criminal justice agencies)

C.R.S. 22-33-106.5 (court to notify of conviction of crime of violence and unlawful sexual behavior)

C.R.S. 22-33-107.5 (school district to notify of failure to attend school)

C.R.S. 24-72-204 (3)(e)(I) (certain FERPA provisions enacted into Colorado Law)

C.R.S. 24-72-204(3)(e)(II)

Policy Code:            JS (IX. – 19.)

Policy Name:           Student use of Electronic  Information Resources

Adoption:                 September, 1998

Revised:

Reviewed:                January, 2007

Electronic information resources, including all network access provided by School District 14, have vast potential to support curriculum and student learning. The Board of Education believes these resources should be used in schools as learning resource tools to educate and to inform.

Electronic information resources off opportunities for both staff and students to:

1. Participate in distance learning activities

2. Ask questions of and consult with experts

3. Communicate with other staff, students, and individuals

4. Locate material to meet their educational and personal information needs

Network activities

1. Require students to think critically, analyze information and write clearly

2. Instill problem-solving skills

3. Hone computer and research skills that employers demand

4. Encourage an attitude of lifelong learning

Because of these education benefits, the Board believes the educational information and interaction available through the use of electronic information resources far outweighs the possibility that users engage in activities not consistent with the education goals of the District. Opportunities should be made available on a regular basis for parents to observe student use of these resources in the schools.

Electronic information resources provide a fluid environment in which information available to staff and students is constantly changing. The Board acknowledge that it is impossible to predict with certainty what information staff and students might locate. The electronic information available to students does not imply endorsement by the District of the content, nor does the district make any guarantee as to the accuracy of information received through these resources.

The district will make every effort to see that these educational resources are used responsibly by students. Administrators, teachers and staff have a professional responsibility to work together to help students develop the intellectual skills needed to discriminate among information sources, to identify information appropriate to their age and developmental levels, and evaluate and use information to meet their educational goals.

The Board direct the Superintendent to develop procedures for staff and student exploration and use of electronic information resources. Such procedures should address issues of privacy, ethical use of information, illegal and/or unauthorized uses of the networks and morally acceptable usage.

Use of these education resources demands personal responsibility and an understanding of the acceptable use procedures for the electronic information resources provided by the district. Student and staff use of these resources is a privilege, not a right. General rules for behavior and communications apply when using these resources. Failure to follow the Acceptable Use Agreement attached to this policy will result in the loss of the privilege to use these educational tools.

Legal Reference:

JICC (V. – 16.)
Student Conduct – School Buses

JICDA ( X. – 10.)
Discipline Standards

JICDB
District-Wide Conduct and Discipline Policy

JICDE (X. – 28.)
Intimidation, Harassment and Bullying by Students

JICEA
School Related Student Publications

JICEA-1
School Related Student Publications Code

JICED
Student Expression Rights

JICG (X. – 23.)
Tobacco Use By Students

JICJ
Skateboards

JICH (X. – 24.)
Alcohol, Illicit Drugs, and Substance Abuse By Students

JICI (III. – 46.)
Weapons in School

JIE (X. – 16.)
Student Pregnancy

JIH
Student Interrogations, Searches and Arrests

JJA (X. – 15.)
Unsanctioned Student Activities

JJAB (X. – 30.)
Colorado High School Activities Association Membership

JJAC (X. – 34.)
Athletic Practices During Hours

JJAD (X. – 32.)
Extra – Curricular Program Travel Supervision

JJJ (X. – 33.)
Extra Curricular Activities

JJJA
Extra Curricular Participation Fees

JKA
Use of Physical Intervention

JKB (X. – 9.)
Corporal Punishment

Policy Code:         JICB

Policy Name:      Gang/Secret Societies

Adoption:            July, 2007

The Board of Education desires to keep district schools and students free from the threats or harmful influence of any groups or gangs which advocate drug use, violence or disruptive behavior.  The principal or designee shall maintain visible supervision of school premises, school vehicles and school-related activities to deter gang intimidation of students and confrontations between members of different gangs.

The superintendent or designee shall establish open lines of communication with local law enforcement authorities so as to share information and provide mutual support in this effort.

Gang symbols

The Board prohibits the presence on school premises, in school vehicles and at school-related activities of any apparel, jewelry, accessory, notebook or manner of grooming which by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark or any other attribute denotes membership in gangs which advocate drug use, violence or disruptive behavior.  This policy shall be applied at the principal’s discretion after consultation with the superintendent or designee as the need for it arises at individual school sites.

Prevention education

The Board realizes that many students become involved in gangs without understanding the consequences of gang membership.  Gang violence prevention education will be provided as needed at the discretion of the school principal.

LEGAL REFS.:

C.R.S. 22-1-120 (8)

C.R.S. 22-32-109.1 (2)(a)(VI)

Policy Code:            JICC (V. – 16.)

Policy Name:          Student Conduct – School Buses

Adoption:                November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:              January, 2007

It is the responsibility of all bus drivers to maintain standards of good discipline on the buses. Rules supplied by the administration must be enforced by the bus drivers. Students who refuse to follow the rules set down for riding buses will be issued a written disciplinary form by the driver. The form is also forwarded to the appropriate building administrator by the bus driver. If the student has a second infraction during the same semester another disciplinary form will be issued and forwarded to the administrator. The administrator will be responsible for disciplining the student with a second infraction and the maximum punishment will be one week off the bus. Should the student have a third violation of bus rules during the same semester a third disciplinary form will be issued and forwarded to the principal and the principal will remove the student from the bus for the remainder of the semester. It will be the principal’s responsibility to contact the parent in all matters of bus discipline. It will be the parent’s responsibility to provide transportation for the student to and from school during periods that the student’s bus riding privilege has been suspended.

Policy Code:            JICDA ( X. – 10.)

Policy Name:          Discipline Standards

Adoption:                November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:              January, 2007

Acceptable and orderly behavior is necessary for a productive and safe learning environment. Students need to know the standards and expectations for behavior which they are to meet within the schools and the consequences of their actions which do not meet the standards and expectations for student conduct.

The administration is directed to design and implement student discipline standards and expectations as well as consequences for misbehavior in each school. These discipline codes shall be approved by the Board of Education thereby becoming a part of school board policy. The discipline policy and procedures are attached to these Board of Education policies and are incorporated herein.

Legal Reference

C.R.S. 22 – 32 – 109.1 (2) (a) (VII) and (IX)

JICDB

District-Wide Conduct and Discipline Policy

Policy Code:           JICDE (X. – 28.)

Policy Name:         Intimidation, Harassment and Bullying by Students

Adoption:               November, 1995

Revised:                 August 27, 2001

Revised:                 July, 2007

The Board of Education supports a safe school climate conducive to teaching and learning that is free from threat, harassment and any type of bullying behavior. For the purposes of this policy, the school environment includes school buildings, grounds, vehicles, bus stops and all school sponsored activities. A student who violates this policy is subject to appropriate disciplinary action including suspension, expulsion and/or referral to law enforcement authorities.

Intimidation, harassment, and bullying are recognized as forms of discrimination and thus violate the laws which prohibit discrimination.

A learning and working environment that is free from intimidation, harassment, and bullying shall be maintained. It shall be a violation of policy for any student of the school district to intimidate, harass or bully another student or employee through conduct or communications.

Intimidation, harassment, and bullying shall be defined as any conduct which has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s performance in the school or work setting creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment related to school district activities or events.

Intimidation, and harassment or bullying as defined above may include but is not limited to:

1. Verbal or non-verbal behavior, including “kidding”, which is demeaning or abusive.

2. Pressure to act against school rules, established law, or policies of the Board of Education.

3. The general use of directed or non-directed vulgarity or threatening language to create an intimidating and threatening environment.

4. The use of vulgarity by anyone when addressing, either orally or in writing, a

student, staff member or community person.

5. Any kind of physical contact that in any way causes another person to feel unsafe, afraid or causes physical harm.

6. Stalking another person for the purpose of intimidating, harassing or causing fear.

7. Hazing in any form.

Students, parents and staff should report instances of perceived intimidation,  harassment, or bullying to the building principal or appropriate supervisor who shall conduct a full investigation of the allegations. All details of the complaint, the investigation, and actions taken will be documented and placed on file. Appropriate action will be in accordance with the procedures as stated in the District-wide Conduct and Discipline Policy JICDA.  Any decisions relative to the allegations and subsequent investigation may be appealed in accordance with the district’s grievance policies.

All matters involving a violation of this policy shall remain confidential to the extent possible. Reporting allegations shall not reflect upon the reporting individual’s status or affect future employment, work assignments or grades.

LEGAL REFERENCE:

22-32 – 109.1 (2) (Board of Education – Specific Powers and Duties)

22-32-109.1 (2) (a) (VII) and (IX) (Safe Schools – Conduct and Discipline Code)

Policy Code:            JICEA

Policy Name:          School Related Student Publications

Adoption:                October, 2006

School-sponsored publications are a public forum for students as well as an educational activity through which students can gain experience in reporting, writing, editing and understanding responsible journalism.  Because the Board recognizes creative student expression as an educational benefit of the school experience, it encourages freedom of comment, both oral and written, in a school setting with a degree of order in which proper learning can take place.

The Board encourages students to express their views in school-sponsored publications and to observe rules for responsible journalism.  This means expression which is false or obscene, libelous, slanderous or defamatory under state law; presents a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts, violation of school rules or material and substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school; violates the privacy rights of others; or threatens violence to property or persons shall not be permitted.

Student editors of school-sponsored publications shall be responsible for determining the news, opinion and advertising content of their publications subject to the limitations of this policy and state law.  The publications adviser within each school shall be responsible for supervising the production of school-sponsored publications and for teaching and encouraging free and responsible expression and professional standards of journalism.

The publications adviser has authority to establish or limit writing assignments for students working with publications and to otherwise direct and control the learning experience that publications are intended to provide when participation in a school-sponsored publication is part of a school class or activity for which grades or school credits are given.

All school-sponsored publications shall contain a disclaimer that expression made by students in the exercise of freedom of speech or freedom of the press is not an expression of Board policy.  The school district and employees are provided immunity from civil or criminal penalties for any expression made or published by students.

The superintendent shall develop, for approval by the Board, a written official school publications code which shall include:

1.      A statement of the purposes of official school publications.

2.      Responsibilities of official school publications’ advisers and student editors.

3.      A list of prohibited materials.

4.      Reasonable provisions for the time, place and manner of distributing school-sponsored student publications within the school district’s jurisdiction.

5.      Procedures for resolving differences.

The publications code shall be distributed to all students and teachers at the beginning of each school year.

LEGAL REFS.:

C.R.S. 22-1-120 (rights of free expression for public school students)

C.R.S. 22-1-122(5)(e) (state law does not prevent a student who is working under the supervision of a journalism teacher or sponsor from preparing or participating in a survey, analysis or evaluation without obtaining written parental consent as long as participation is not prohibited by federal law)

C.R.S. 22-32-110 (1)(r) (power to exclude materials that are immoral or pernicious)

Policy Code:            JICEA-1

Policy Name:          School Related Student Publications Code

Adoption:                October, 2006

1.      Purpose

As stated in Board policy JICEA school-sponsored publications are a public forum for students as well as an educational activity through which students can gain experience in reporting, writing, editing and understanding responsible journalism.  Content of school publications should reflect all areas of student interest, including topics about which there may be dissent or controversy.

2.      Responsibilities of student journalists

In addition to the responsibilities set forth in the accompanying Board policy, students who work on official student publications will:

a.   Rewrite material, as required by the faculty advisers to improve sentence structure, grammar, spelling and punctuation.

b.   Check and verify all facts and verify the accuracy of all quotations.

c.   In the case of editorials or letters to the editor concerning controversial issues, provide space for rebuttal comments and opinions.

d. Determine the content of any advertisements.

3.      Responsibilities of publication advisers

In addition to the responsibilities set forth in the accompanying Board policy, the publication adviser will exercise general supervision over all activities to create a proper learning environment.

4.      Prohibited materials

a.   Students may not publish or distribute material that is obscene.  “Obscene” means:

(1)    The average person applying contemporary community standards finds that the publication, taken as a whole, appeals to a minor’s prurient interest in sex.

(2)    The publication depicts or describes in a patently offensive way.

(3)    The work, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value.

b.   Students may not publish expression that is libelous, slanderous or defamatory under state law.  “Libelous” is defined as a false and unprivileged statement about a person that injures the individual’s reputation in the community.

c.   Expression that is false as to any person who is not a public figure or involved in a matter of public concern is prohibited.

If the allegedly libeled individual is a “public figure or official,” the official must show that the false statement was published with actual malice, as the terms are defined in law.

Under the “fair comment rule,” a student is free to express an opinion on matters of public interest.

d.   Expression which presents a clear and present danger of the commission of unlawful acts, violation of lawful school regulations, or material and substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the school, violates the rights of others to privacy, or threatens violence to property or persons is prohibited.

In order for a student publication to be considered disruptive, there must exist specific facts upon which it would be reasonable to forecast that a clear and present likelihood of an immediate, substantial material disruption to normal school activity would occur if the material were distributed.

5.      Time, place and manner restrictions

The principal will coordinate with the publications adviser on the time, place and manner of distributing school-sponsored publications to reduce any conflict with school instructional time and/or reduce any disruption of the orderly operation of the school which might be caused by the distribution of school-sponsored publications.

6.      Procedures for resolving differences

Student editors will work first with the publications adviser to resolve any differences.  If the problem can not be resolved at this level, the student editors and the publications adviser will work with the principal to resolve any problems.  If the problem is not resolved at the principal level, the student editors and the publications adviser will work with the superintendent to resolve any problem.  If the problem is not resolved at the superintendency level, the student editors and publications adviser work with the Board of Education.  If the problem is not resolved at the Board level, the student editors and publications advisor may seek relief through the judicial system as is the right of any citizen.

7.      Legal advice

a.   If in the opinion of the publications adviser, material proposed for publication may be “obscene,” “libelous,” or “cause a substantial disruption of school activities,” the legal opinion of the school district’s attorney should be sought if authorized by the principal and superintendent.

b.   Legal fees charged in connection with this consultation will be paid by the Board.

Policy Code:            JICED

Policy Name:          Student Expression Rights

Adoption:                November, 1995

Revised:                  August 27, 2001

Reviewed:               January, 2007

It is the Board of Education’s responsibility to adopt rules reasonably necessary to maintain proper discipline among students and create an effective learning environment.

For purposes of this policy, student expression includes expression in any media, including but not limited to written, oral, visual, audio, and electronic media in all classroom and other school-related activities, assignments, and projects.

A student who violates this policy is subject to appropriate disciplinary action including suspension, expulsion and or referral to law enforcement authorities.

Students shall not turn in, present, publish or distribute expression that is disruptive to the classroom environment or to the maintenance of a safe and orderly school, as follows:

1. Obscene

2. Libelous, slanderous, defamatory, or other wise unlawful under state law

3. Profane or vulgar

4. False as to any person

5. Creates a clear and present danger by committing of unlawful acts, the violation of

lawful school regulations, or the substantial disruption of the orderly operation of the

school

6. Violates the rights of others to privacy

7. Threatens violence to property or persons

8. Attacks any person because of race, age, marital status, color, creed, disability,

national origin, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion or physical or personal

characteristics.

9. Tends to create hostility or otherwise disrupt the orderly operation of the education

Process.

10. Advocates illegal acts of any kind, including the use of illegal drugs, tobacco or

alcohol

Students, parents and staff should report instances of a student in violation of this policy to the building principal or appropriate supervisor who shall conduct a full investigation of the allegations. Appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the procedures as stated in the District’s Code of Conduct and Behavioral Guidelines. Any decisions relative to the allegations and subsequent investigation may be appealed in accordance with the district’s grievance policies.

All matters involving a violation of this policy shall remain confidential to the extent  possible. Reporting allegations shall not reflect upon the reporting individual’s status or  affect future employment, work assignments or grades.

LEGAL REG.:

C.R.S. 22-1-120 (rights of free express for public school students)

C.R.S. 22-32-110 (1) (r) (power to exclude materials that are immoral or pernicious)

Policy Code:            JICG (X. – 23.)

Policy Name:          Tobacco Use By Students

Adoption:                November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:              January, 2007

Manitou Springs School District 14 students shall not posses tobacco products or use tobacco products on school property, in all school owned buildings, in vehicles owned or leased by the school district, or when participating in or attending any school sponsored activity.

Student violators of this policy shall be subject to building-level discipline procedures.

Legal Reference:

C.R.S. 25 – 14 – 102 (3)

C.R.S. 25 – 14 – 103 (l) (f) (3)

Policy Code:            JICJ

Policy Name:          Skateboards

Adoption:                October 7, 1996

Revised:

Reviewed:               January, 2007

The board of education recognizes its responsibility for providing safety in all district buildings and on all school property. Therefore, the board of education prohibits skateboards on school property.

Policy Code:            JICH (X. – 24.)

Policy Name:           Alcohol, Illicit Drugs, and Substance Abuse By Students

Adoption:                 November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:               January, 2007

Manitou Springs School District 14 shall promote a healthy environment for students by providing education, support and decision making skills in regard to alcohol, drugs and other controlled substances and their abuse.  In order to accomplish this goal, a cooperative effort must be made among the schools, parents, community and its agencies.

It shall be a violation of Board policy and considered to be behavior which is detrimental to the welfare, safety and morals of other students or school personnel for any student to possess, use, sell, distribute or procure or to be under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other controlled substances.

For purposes of this policy, controlled substances include but are not limited to narcotic drugs, hallucinogenic or mind-altering drugs or substances, amphetamines, barbiturates, stimulants, depressants, marijuana, anabolic steroids, any other controlled substances as defined in law, or any prescription or nonprescription drug, medicine, vitamin or other chemical substances not taken in accordance with the Board policy and regulations on administering medicines to students.

The policy also includes substances that are represented by or to the student to be any such controlled substance or what the student believes to be any such substance.

This policy shall apply to any student who is on school property, in attendance at school, in a school vehicle or taking part in any school sponsored or sanctioned activity or whose conduct at any time or place interferes with the operations of the district or the safety or welfare of students or employees.

Students violating this policy shall be subject to disciplinary sanctions established in each school’s disciplinary procedures and behavioral guidelines and may include suspension and/or expulsion from school and referral for prosecution. Suspension or expulsion shall be mandatory for sale or distribution of drugs or other controlled substances, in accordance with state law.

Situations in which a student seeks counseling or information from a professional staff member for the purpose of overcoming substance abuse shall be handled on an individual basis depending upon the nature and particulars o the case. When appropriate, parents shall be involved and every effort made to direct the substance abuser to sources of help.

The Board, in recognition that drug and alcohol abuse is a community problem, shall cooperate actively with law enforcement, social services or other agencies and organizations, parents and any other recognized community resources committed to reducing the incidents of illegal use of drugs and alcohol by school-aged youth. Whenever possible in dealing with student problems associated with drug and alcohol abuse, school personnel shall provide parents and students with information concerning education and rehabilitation programs which are available. Information provided to students and/or parents about community substance abuse treatment programs or other resources shall be accompanied by a disclaimer to clarify that the school district assumes no financial responsibility for the expense of drug or alcohol assessment or treatment provided by other agencies or groups unless otherwise required.

The Board may conduct a periodic review of its drug prevention program to determine its effectiveness, to implement any required changes and to insure that the disciplinary sanctions required are consistently enforced.

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. 3221

20 U.S.C. 32249

C.R.S. 18 – 18 – 102 (3) (5)

C.R.S. 18 – 18 – 407 (2)

C.R.S. 22 – 33 – 106 (l) (d)

Policy Code:            JICI (III. – 46.)

Policy Name:           Weapons in School

Adoption:                 November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:               January, 2007

There shall be no deadly weapons of any kind in any school building, on school grounds, in any school vehicle or at any school-sponsored activity without the authorization of the school or the School District. Exception to this prohibition are:

1. The deadly weapon is not concealed and is brought on school premises for the purpose of presenting an authorized public demonstration or exhibition pursuant to instruction in conjunction with an organized school activity or class.

2. The deadly weapon is for the purpose of carrying out duties as a law enforcement officer or armed security personnel hired by the district.

3. The deadly weapon is brought for the purpose of participating in an authorized extra curricular activity which involves the use of weapons.

Weapons which are prohibited on district property include, but are not limited to any pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun, air gun or spring gun, slingshot, bludgeons, artificial knuckles, a knife having a blade of greater than three and one-half inches, any knife the blades of which opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring, or other devise in its handle, or any pocket knife where the blade is carried in a partially opened position.

Violation of this policy requires that proceedings for expulsion of any student involved shall be initiated immediately by the principal. With regard to staff, violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, including possible dismissal. Violations by a visitor to the district may result in denial of further access to district property or the right to attend district or school functions.

In accordance with federal law, expulsion will be for no less than one full calendar year for a student who is determined to have brought a firearm to school. The superintendent may modify the length of this requirement for expulsion on a case-by-case basis.

Legal Reference:

20 U.S.C. 3351

C.R.S. 18-1-901 (3) (e)

C.R.S. 18-12-101

C.R.S. 18-12-105.5

C.R.S. 22-33-106 (1) (d)

Policy Code:             JIE (X. – 16.)

Policy Name:            Student Pregnancy

Adoption:                  November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:                 January, 2007

Pregnant students may be offered the opportunity for tutoring services when required to be absent from school. School counseling services may also be available.

Policy Code:         JIH

Policy Name:        Student Interrogations, Searches and Arrests

Adoption:              July, 2007

The Board of Education seeks to maintain a climate in the schools which is conducive to learning and protective of the safety and welfare of staff and students.  To achieve this goal, it may be necessary for school personnel to search the person and/or the personal property of the student and to seize any property deemed injurious or detrimental to the safety and welfare of students and staff.

Searches conducted by school personnel

Searches may be conducted by a school official who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that a search will turn up evidence that the student has violated either the law or Board policy.  When reasonable grounds for a search exist, school personnel may search a student and/or the student’s personal property while on school premises or during a school activity under the circumstances outlined in this policy and may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials.

Any search conducted by a school official shall respect the privacy of the student and not be any more intrusive than necessary, considering the age and sex of the student and nature of the suspected infraction.

Whenever possible, the student shall be informed of the reason(s) for conducting the search and the student’s permission to perform the search shall be requested.  A student’s failure to cooperate with school officials conducting a search shall be considered grounds for disciplinary action.

An administrative report shall be prepared by the school official conducting a search explaining the reasons for the search, the results and the names of any witnesses to the search

Definitions

1.      “Reasonable suspicion” is the standard for a search on school property or at school activities carried out by school authorities.  Reasonable suspicion is based on facts provided by a reliable informant or personal observation which cause the school official to believe, based on personal experience, that search of a particular person, place or thing would lead to the discovery of evidence of a violation of Board policy or state or federal laws.  Reasonable suspicion requires more than a mere hunch.

2.      “Contraband” consists of all substances or materials prohibited by Board policy or state law including but not limited to drugs, alcoholic beverages, guns, knives, other weapons and incendiary devices.

Search of school property

School lockers, desks and other storage areas are school property and remain at all times under the control of the school.  School property provided for the use of  students is subject to inspection, clean-outs, access for maintenance and search pursuant to this policy.

Students shall assume full responsibility for the security of their lockers and/or other storage areas in the manner approved by the administration.  Students shall be responsible for whatever is contained in desks and lockers assigned to them by the school.

The principal or designee may search a particular desk, locker or any other storage area and its contents when there are reasonable grounds for a search.  Whenever possible, another person shall be available to witness the search.

Random and/or routine searches of school property, which do not require reasonable grounds, may occur at any time.

Search of the student’s person

The principal or designee may search the person of a student if the school official has reasonable grounds to believe that the student is in possession of contraband.

Search of the person shall be limited to the student’s pockets, any object in the student’s possession such as a purse or briefcase, and/or a “pat down” of the exterior of the student’s clothing.

Searches of the person shall be conducted out of the presence of other students and as privately as possible.  At least one but not more than three additional persons of the same sex as the student being searched shall witness but not participate in the search.

The parent/guardian of any student searched shall be notified of the search as soon as reasonably possible.

Searches of the person which require removal of clothing other than a coat or jacket shall be referred to a law enforcement officer.

Seizure of items

Anything found in the course of a search conducted by school officials which is evidence of a violation of law or Board policy or school rules or which by its presence presents an immediate danger of physical harm may be:

1.            Seized and offered as evidence in any suspension or expulsion proceeding.  Such             material shall be kept in a secure place by the principal until it is presented at the hearing.

2.      Returned to the student or the parent/guardian.

3.      Turned over to a law enforcement officer in accordance with this policy.

Appeals

Within 10 school days after a search, the student may appeal the search decision to the superintendent who shall investigate the reason(s) and circumstances of the search.  The superintendent shall issue written findings within five school days after receiving the appeal.  The superintendent’s decision shall constitute the final district determination.

Law enforcement officers’ involvement

Search and seizure

The principal or designee may request a search on school premises be conducted by a law enforcement officer.  When law enforcement authorities are involved in the search, the search will be conducted under criminal law standards rather than under the provisions of this policy.

When law enforcement officers respond to such a request, no school employee shall assist or otherwise participate in the search unless under the direct order of the law enforcement officer.

If law enforcement personnel seek permission from school authorities to search a student, the student’s personal property or school property to obtain evidence related to criminal activities, school officials shall require the police to produce a valid search warrant before the search is conducted unless:

1.      There is uncoerced consent by the student.

2.      There is probable cause and circumstances such that taking the time to obtain a search warrant would frustrate the purpose of the search.

3.      The search is incident to an arrest and is limited to the person and immediate surroundings.

Interrogation

When law enforcement officials request permission to question students when students are in school or participating in school activities, the principal or designee shall be present.  If the student is under 18, the student’s parent/guardian also shall be present unless the juvenile is emancipated as that term is defined in state law.

Every effort shall be made not to draw any attention to the student being questioned by conducting the interrogation in private and with as little disruption to the schedule as possible.

LEGAL REFS.:

C.R.S. 19-2-511 et seq.

C.R.S. 22-32-109.1 (2)(a)(VIII)

Policy Code:            JJA (X. – 15.)

Policy Name:           Unsanctioned Student Activities

Adoption:                 November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:                January, 2007

Unsanctioned and unapproved activities occurring after an approved school function, such as the Junior-Senior Prom, may result in the administration or Board of Education abolishing the approved school function.

Policy Code:            JJAB (X. – 30.)

Policy Name:          Colorado High School Activities Association Membership

Adoption:                November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:               January, 2007

The Board of Education has approved membership in the Colorado High School Activities Association and to the Local Activities Association to which the school is assigned by CHSAA. As long as this school is a member of these bodies, it must abide by the policies and ideals as set by the Colorado High School Activities Association and the Local Activities Association.

The Board of Education also recognizes that service as a member of a CHSAA or Local Activities or Local Activities Association committee under the auspices of the CHSAA is deemed to be within the scope of employment of district personnel and within the performance of such staff member’s duties as employees of School District 14.

Policy Code:        JJAC (X. – 34.)

Policy Name:          Athletic Practices During Hours

Adoption:                November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:               January, 2007

There will be no athletic practices during school hours.

Policy Code:         JJAD (X. – 32.)

Policy Name:           Extra – Curricular Program Travel Supervision

Adoption:                 November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:               January, 2007

Whenever extra-curricular groups travel, supervision will be provided for the control and safety of the group and the members of the student body who travel on school provided transportation.

Policy Code:        JJJ (X. – 33.)

Policy Name:          Extra Curricular Activities

Adopted:                 February 26, 2001

Revised:

Reviewed:              January, 2007

Revised:                 November 2008

The Extra Curricular Activities program of Manitou Springs School District 14 offers activities which contribute to the total educational program of Manitou Springs School District 14 and exemplify the whole child values of the district. Extra curricular activities include athletics, off campus music, drama, and art, student governance, student public service organizations, and school sponsored clubs.

Manitou Springs High School is a member of the Colorado High School Activities Association. As a member of the CHSAA, the school has joined with other public accredited high schools in Colorado in making and agreeing to abide by eligibility rules which are reflected in the high school’s activities policies. Individual students and the school are  both responsible for insuring that the school does not suffer embarrassment and loss of prestige because it has to forfeit a game or other contest or perhaps lose a championship because a student participated when not eligible. All students wishing to participate must therefore comply with the requirements of the Colorado High School Activities Association.

Manitou Springs Middle School is a member of the Tri County League and as such has agreed to abide by the rules governing that league. Middle school policies reflect its conference commitments.

In Manitou Springs School District 14 all students wishing to participate in any extra-curricular activity:

1. Must be considered a good citizen of his or her school as determined by the principal, assistant principal and/or the activities director. The District believes that involvement in extra curricular activities can positively influence the attitudes and behaviors of disaffected students.

2. Must conduct himself or herself in a manner which reflects positively on the school and fellow participants.

3. Must meet the conduct and attendance requirements of their school.

4. Must be academically eligible as determined by school policy.

5. Must not be a member of any organization prohibited by law.

In addition, any illegal use of drugs, alcohol or tobacco on or off of school grounds, during the school day, at school sponsored activities, or arriving at school or activities under the influence of drugs or alcohol will not be tolerated. Specific policies are the responsibility of each school to develop and implement.

Policy Code:            JJJA

Policy Name:          Extra Curricular Participation Fees

Adoption:                May 23, 2005

Revised:

Reviewed:               January, 2007

The Board of Education directs the Superintendent or designee to establish a schedule of fees for grade 6-12 extra curricular activities in conjunction with the Board’s annual budget development process.  Included will be a process by which students unable to pay may apply for and receive a full or partial waiver of fees.  The Superintendent or designee is authorized to develop regulations and/or procedures which require a student to pay the fee as a condition of extra curricular participation.

Policy Code:  JKA

Policy Name: Use of Physical Intervention

Adoption:      August 29, 2000

Revised:

Reviewed:   January, 2007

The safety and welfare of all students and staff should be the first consideration when dealing with disruptive students. Any person employed by the district may, within the scope of his/her employment, use reasonable and appropriate physical intervention or force as necessary for the following purposes:

1.            To prevent a student from an act of wrong-doing.

2.            To quell a disturbance threatening physical injury to others.

3.            To obtain possession of weapons or other dangerous objects upon a student or                        within the control of a student.

4.            For the purpose of self-defense.

5.            For the protection of persons or property.

6.            To maintain discipline.

Any such acts are not in conflict with the legal definition of child abuse and shall not be construed to constitute corporal punishment within the meaning and intention of this policy. Corporal punishment shall not be administered to students by anyone in any district school.

LEGAL REFS.:

C.R.S. 18-1703 (Use of physical force by those supervising minors)

C.R.S. 18-6-401 (1) (definition of child abuse)

C.R.S. 19-1-103 (1) (definition of abuse and neglect)

C.R.S. 22-32-109.1 (2) (a) (adoption and enforcement of discipline code)

C.R.S. 22-32-109.1 (2) (a) (IV) (policy required as part of safe schools)

Policy Code:           JKB (X. – 9.)

Policy Name:         Corporal Punishment

Adoption:               November, 1995

Revised:

Reviewed:            January, 2007

The Board and administration do not sanction any type of physical punishment by District 14 staff or by students against other students.