Elementary Handbook 2026-2027

PARENT-STUDENT HANDBOOK

GRUNDY CENTER ELEMENTARY

MISSION: FOSTERING A CARING & SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL TO CONNECT, LEARN, AND GROW.

VISION: PREPARING ALL TO VALUE RELATIONSHIPS, PURSUE EXCELLENCE, & EXPAND POTENTIAL.

GRUNDY CENTER ELEMENTARY IS A PROUD MEMBER OF LEADER VALLEY!

THE PURPOSE OF THIS HANDBOOK IS TO PROVIDE PARENTS AND STUDENTS AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE GENERAL RULES AND GUIDELINES. THIS HANDBOOK DOES NOT CONTAIN ALL RULES AND REGULATIONS OF GRUNDY CENTER SCHOOLS. PLEASE REFERENCE THE GRUNDY CENTER SCHOOLS BOARD POLICIES FOR MORE INFORMATION.

PRINTABLE COPY AVAILABLE HERE

GO TO ACADEMICS

GO TO ATTENDANCE

EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENTS

TECHNOLOGY

HEALTH, WELL-BEING, & SAFETY

STUDENT SERVICES

PARENT AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

DISTRICT INFORMATION

EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY

ACADEMICS

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL TIMES

Front steps supervision is provided according to the daily schedule posted below. Please be timely in dropping off and picking up your child. Parents of students who arrive before or are delayed beyond the hours during which supervision is available will be notified and asked to make appropriate arrangements.

Students may begin arriving on the front steps of the school at 7:30am.

Breakfast eaters 7:40am

All Students May Enter 7:55am

Tardy bell 8:05am

Dismissal is at 3:20.

All bus riding students will exit through the west doors. Kindergarten students not riding the bus will exit the south school doors. First through fourth grade students not riding the bus will exit through the east school doors. Bicycle riders are reminded to walk their bicycles on the sidewalks. Students shall not cross the street without an adult.

CURRICULUM RESOURCES

The educational program at all levels is grounded in the basics, yet enriched to meet the needs of all students. Reading, writing, listening, speaking, viewing, and mathematics are stressed at all grade levels. Social studies, science, health, and 21st century skills are equally important. The ability to think and solve problems is stressed in each academic area. Learning is extended and enhanced through use of media center and technology.

Curriculum materials are evaluated every seven years. More detailed descriptions and curriculum support for other areas such as 21st Century Skills are listed on the district homepage.

English/Language Arts – Scholastic Book Room, Into Reading by Houghton Mifflin, 95% Group phonics, and guided reading and running records in a workshop model focus

Math – Investigations by Pearson Math

Science – FOSS Kits and Mystery Science

Social Studies – TCI Social Studies

Health – Good Body Shop, Second Step, and Leader in Me

Title 1 – Leveled Literacy Intervention

Dyslexia Instruction – The Barton System

As mandated by the Code of Iowa, 279.50, a student is not required to receive the instruction in the human growth and development of the health education curriculum if the parent or guardian requests the student be excused. The course of study and the health instructional materials used to guide the health curriculum may be examined, upon request, at the elementary school. Please contact your building principal for further information.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Grundy Center Elementary utilizes primarily no school professional development days. These days allow time for teachers to train in research-based, best practices; collaborate with the purpose of improved student achievement; and develop techniques that can be immediately carried to the classroom to improve student learning. To ensure that students are in school during school hours, these days are an ideal time to address family needs such as medical and dental appointments.

PROGRESS REPORTS AND CONFERENCES

Communication between school and home is a vital part of student learning. The goal at the elementary level is

100% participation at conferences. You will receive three written reports of progress – one at the end of each grading period.

SPECIAL CLASSES

The elementary school operates on a M-F schedule.

Art - Art classes are scheduled one or two times per cycle for grades TK-4. Materials are furnished by the school. Student work is displayed throughout the year.

Guidance – Guidance classes are scheduled one time per cycle for grades TK-4. Curriculum is provided through Second Step curriculum.

Library – Library classes are scheduled up to three times per cycle for grades TK - grade 3. Grade 4 requests librarian services and library visits by classroom.

Makerspace – A Makerspace is a room that contains tools and components, allowing students to enter with an idea and leave with a complete project.

Music – Music classes are scheduled two times per cycle for grades TK-4. Curriculum guidance is provided by Game Plan.

P.E. – Physical education classes are scheduled two times per cycle for grades TK-1 and every day for grades 2-4. When participating in the gym, tennis shoes are recommended.

Computer Science - Computer science education focuses on grades 2-4

SUPPORT SERVICES

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Students whose ability to speak, read, write, or comprehend English is affected because the student’s native language is other than English, may be eligible for ESL services. Initial referrals for this program are generated through the completion of a federally mandated Home Language Survey as a part of the enrollment process. Additional referrals can be initiated through contacting the building principal.

Reading Intervention

Reading Intervention is a highly effective, small group intervention for first graders who are struggling in the area of literacy. Students are tested and selected within the first few weeks of the school year.

Special Education Services

A continuum of special education services is available to students with special needs, when appropriate. Referral for special education is initiated at the building level.

For each student who is determined to be eligible for and needs special education services, an Individual Education Plan (IEP) is developed which defines the services required to meet identified individualized goals. The IEP is developed by a team; including the parents, general education teachers, special education teachers, related service providers, and an administrator.

Speech

Speech services are available for students, when appropriate. Referrals are accepted from teachers, parents/guardians, and outside agencies by contacting the school of attendance. Services are provided either by working directly with a speech language pathologist or through collaboration between the speech language pathologist, the child and the classroom teacher.

Talented and Gifted (Extended Learning Program)

The Grundy Center Elementary Talented and Gifted (TAG) Program is designed to offer academic opportunities and educational services to students. These students, because of their academic aptitude, require additional academic services beyond which is offered in the regular classroom and curriculum. Talented and Gifted Handbook

Title 1 Reading

Title I is a federally funded program designed to help qualified students achieve proficiency. Our district offers a “targeted assistance program” for students who are identified for service. Funding for targeted assistance schools is determined by the percentage of students identified as low income based upon free and reduced lunch counts.

What I Need (WIN)

What I Need (WIN) time is a problem solving approach to address student’s specific academic and behavioral needs. This process is referred to as Multi-Tiered System of Support, or MTSS. Through this process, a team of teachers meet to develop appropriate supports or interventions for students. Interventions address a particular area of need for students and provides targeted instruction for more specific academic or behavioral support. Interventions are also developed to provide academic extension and enrichment opportunities for students that have mastered the content. Student progress is monitored regularly, and interventions are increased or decreased as necessary to continue to meet the student’s learning need.

TEACHER LEADERSHIP AND COMPENSATION

The Teacher Leadership and Compensation program strongly supports students and teachers. The elementary employs one Student Achievement Coordinator who oversees district testing, works with teachers during professional learning collaborations, oversees professional development, and assists with mentoring new teachers. One lead coach works to help teachers implement professional development initiatives and assists in mentoring new teachers. Two Lighthouse Coordinators who help implement Leader in Me, and a team of teachers comprise the Lighthouse Team, which represents building leadership.

ATTENDANCE

AGE OF STUDENTS

Kindergarten students must be 5 years of age and first grade students must be 6 years of age by September 15 of the school year.

ATTENDANCE REGULATIONS

Attendance Regulations

Student Attendance

The Board of Education has commissioned the school to provide the best possible education for the students of the Grundy Center Community School. In order to make the most efficient use of facilities and teachers, it is essential to have regular attendance. The educational progress of each student is directly related to regular classroom attendance. All students are expected to attend all scheduled class sessions. Whenever a student is absent from school, the value of the work missed is something that is difficult to make up for by out-of-class work. Make-up work requires a good deal of extra time on the part of the teacher. This time can best be spent on the entire class or students who have been absent due to illness or unavoidable reasons.

Questions that arise in regard to absence or presence should be cleared through the principal’s office. District policy requires a student to be in attendance at least one hundred forty-eight days. Students must be in attendance for at least forty-nine days each school trimester, for the schools under their jurisdiction. (Iowa Code 299.1, 299A.1) Regular attendance is absolutely necessary for a student to gain maximum benefit from his/her educational experience.

Many out-of-school activities offer valuable learning experiences; however, they may not always align directly with the skills and concepts taught in the classroom. While they are important, they are not a replacement for classroom instruction. Parents have the right to make attendance decisions for their children, within the guidelines set by state law. At the same time, the school has the responsibility to evaluate attendance excuses to ensure consistency and fairness. We know families value a clear and equitable process, so the following policies have been adopted to support that goal.

SCHOOL BOARD POLICY REQUIRES PARENTS TO CALL THE BUILDING PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE BY 9:00 AM AT 319-825-5449 WHENEVER A STUDENT IS GOING TO BE ABSENT OR TARDY.

Definitions:

Chronic Absenteeism: When a student has missed 10% of school days (excused or unexcused)
School Engagement Meeting: A meeting involving the child, parent/guardian, and school official to address absenteeism and create an absenteeism prevention plan.
Truancy: A student is considered truant when they have missed 20% of school days without valid excuse.
Compulsory Age: If a student is between the ages of 6-15 years old by September 15. However, if a student is five years old by September 15 or a child is four years old and enrolled in a statewide preschool program by September 15, they are considered compulsory age as well. Also, if a student turns sixteen after September 15, that student will be considered of compulsory age until the completion of that school year.

Absenteeism Procedural Steps:

Absences will be classified as exempt, excused, and unexcused. (See below)
Exempt absences will not count towards excessive absenteeism.
Excused and unexcused absences will count towards excessive absenteeism.

10% Absenteeism: Chronic Absenteeism Notification (6-Day Policy)

When a student accumulates 6 non-exempt absences

in any class period for the trimester, the following steps may be taken:

Notification:

The school will notify the parent/guardian and County Attorney’s Office by email, regular mail, or delivery in person. This notification will include:

A record of the student’s absences.
Information on applicable school attendance policies.
The school’s disciplinary procedures related to absenteeism.
A warning that continued absenteeism may lead to a formal School Engagement Meeting or legal action.

Potential Consequences:
Any student who misses 6 days in any class period for the trimester may:

May be asked to make up work during recess.

15% Absenteeism: School Engagement Meeting and Prevention Plan (9-Day Policy)

When a student accumulates 9 non-exempt absences in any class period during a trimester a School Engagement Meeting and Absenteeism Prevention Plan will be initiated if the student’s academic performance is being negatively affected.

Notification:
Parents/guardians will receive an attendance letter notifying them of the 9 absences in any class period.

Mandatory Investigation:
An investigation will be conducted to identify the underlying causes of the absenteeism. This may include reviewing prior interventions, communication with the family, and identifying barriers to attendance.

School Engagement Meeting:
A School Engagement Meeting will be required. The meeting must include:

The student
The student’s parent(s) or guardian(s)
A designated school official (e.g., At-Risk Director or Administrator)

The purpose of the meeting is to:

Identify factors contributing to absenteeism.
Create an Absenteeism Prevention Plan.

Absenteeism Prevention Plan:
The Absenteeism Prevention Plan will:

Address the root causes of absenteeism.
Outline specific steps and goals to improve attendance.
Be signed by the student, parent/guardian, and school official, with a date included.

Compliance with Prevention Plan:
If the family refuses to participate in the meeting or fails to comply with the Absenteeism Prevention Plan, the school may notify the County Attorney.

20% Absenteeism: Truant Status and Legal Action (12-Day Policy)

When a student accumulates 12 non-exempt absences for the trimester, they will be classified as truant. The following steps may be taken:

Referral to County Attorney:
Students with 12 unexcused absences will be referred to the County Attorney’s Office. The referral will include:

A record of the student’s attendance.
Documentation of the school’s efforts to address absenteeism (e.g., communication with the family, prevention plans).
Any additional relevant information about the student’s circumstances.

Legal Action:
Once a student is deemed truant, the County Attorney may take legal action, which could include:

Filing a petition in juvenile court to address the student’s truancy.
Prosecuting the parent(s) or guardian(s) for failure to comply with compulsory attendance laws. This may result in fines or other penalties.

Required School Engagement Meeting:
A meeting will be scheduled with the student, parent/guardian, at-risk director, and administration to:

Review the district’s attendance policy.
Review the existing Absenteeism Prevention Plan and determine compliance.
Discuss next steps to prevent further absences.
Discuss whether absences affected learning grade level standards enough to justify grade level retention.

Absences will be categorized / recorded in the following manner:

Exempt

School related/sponsored trips or activities
Medical (absences of 5 or more consecutive days requires a doctor’s note)
Court directed activity with documentation provided (Driver’s License, School Permit, Jury Duty, etc)
Attending Religious service or receiving religious education
Traveling to attend a funeral
Traveling to attend a wedding
IEP that restricts attendance
Section 504 plan that restricts attendance
Other legitimate exemptions, as determined by the principal

Excused

Illness of the student
Family Reasons
Helping family
Family vacation or “Out of town”
Parent or sibling Medical Emergency
Watching classmates in state athletic competition, Show Choir, art show
Other legitimate exceptions, as determined by the principal

Unexcused

Absent - no parent contact.

The principal reserves the right to determine on a case-by-case basis if the absence falls under exempt, excused, or unexcused.

Tardiness

Being late to class takes away learning time—for you and others. It can cause distractions and make it harder for teachers to start lessons.

If you’re late to school, bring a note or have a parent call the office. Go straight to the office to check in and get a pass before going to class.

Make-Up Work

School work missed because of absences must be made up within two times the number of days absent, not to exceed 20 days. The time allowed for make-up work may be extended at the discretion of the classroom teacher and/or the building principal.

INCLEMENT WEATHER OR EMERGENCY CLOSINGS

In case of bad weather, unsafe road conditions, or other reasons requiring early school dismissal or school cancellation, we will post notifications through Infinite Campus Messenger; social media; t.v. KWWL Ch. 7, KCRG Ch. 9 and KGAN Ch. 2 ; and radio stations KCRR 97.7 FM, KDAO 99.5 FM. Every attempt will be made to get notifications out by 7:00 AM, or the night prior. If no announcement is made, school will be in session.

If school is dismissed due to inclement weather after the school day has begun, the same notifications are made. Parents of students who ride the bus are notified how students will be returned home with the notification that school has been dismissed. The superintendent determines whether buses will follow the regular routes. If the buses do not follow the regular routes, they follow emergency routes, or the parents are responsible for picking up the students at the student's school.

EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENTS

ASSEMBLIES

Attendance at assemblies is a privilege. Students must act in an orderly fashion and remain quiet on their way to an assembly, during an assembly, and on their way back to the classroom after an assembly. Students attend assemblies unless, for disciplinary reasons, the privilege is taken away.

BICYCLES TO SCHOOL

The district is not responsible for students riding to and from school and assumes no responsibility for bicycles on the school grounds or inside the building. While we understand it is up to the parents’ discretion whether or not their child wears a helmet, it is strongly encouraged that when riding to school, a helmet is used. Rollerblades, skateboards, scooters, hover boards, and roller tennis shoes may not be used on school grounds.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

Students are welcome to celebrate birthdays at school. Any food items brought for the class must be commercially prepared, individually packaged, and safe for students with food allergies. Families may also choose to send non-food items such as pencils, erasers, stickers, or bookmarks. Birthday treats or tokens are entirely optional and are never expected. If a student chooses to bring items to share, there should be enough for every student in the class. Students with summer birthdays are welcome to celebrate their half birthday or another date arranged with their teacher. Birthday party invitations may be distributed at school only if every student in the class is invited.

DELIVERIES TO SCHOOL

In order to avoid classroom disruptions, individual gifts for students such as flowers and balloons should be brought to the office. Students will be notified to pick them up at the end of the day

DRESS CODE

Students are expected to practice good hygiene and wear neat and appropriate attire at all times. The dress and physical appearance of our elementary students is expected to be age appropriate. Clothing should not draw undue attention and should provide adequate coverage of the person so as to not be disruptive nor distracting. The wearing of obscene or unbecoming apparel is not appropriate. Consistent with our drug and alcohol prevention program, students may not wear clothing that promotes these types of products. The principal reserves the right to determine what clothing is appropriate. Students who are dressed inappropriately will be asked to change or be given something appropriate to wear for the day. Shoes must be worn at all times for health and safety reasons. Hats are not allowed in the classroom, except on special occasions. Mittens/gloves, hats, coat, and boots are a necessity in bad weather.

FIELD TRIPS

In certain classes, field trips and excursions are authorized and may be taken as an extension of the classroom to contribute to the achievement of the educational goals of the school district. Students are expected to attend the field trips. Students must ride to and from the field trip using school-provided transportation. Students will not be denied transportation to and from an academic field trip even if prior disciplinary measures have resulted in their bus privileges being taken away from a regular bus route.

While on field trips, students are guests and considered ambassadors and representatives of the school district. Students must treat employees, chaperones and guides with respect and courtesy. Permission to attend field trips is signed during school registration.

The field trip is an extension of the educational program and as such the district retains the right to control who comes in contact with students during the school day. Each classroom will determine the number of chaperones needed for their field trips.

ILLEGAL ITEMS

Students are prohibited from distributing, dispensing, manufacturing, possessing, using, or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol, tobacco, nicotine products, e-cigarettes, or components (battery, atomizer, cartomizer, and/or clearomizer) over the counter or prescription drugs when used for improper purposes, other controlled substances, or “look alike” substances that appear to be tobacco, beer, wine, alcohol or controlled substances by students while on district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the district; while on district-owned and/ or operated district or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in district activities; and while away from district grounds if the misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management and welfare of the district. For complete details, please reference Board Policy 502.7 on the district website.

Weapons are not allowed on school grounds or at school activities including hunting rifles even if unloaded with the exception of weapons in the control of law enforcement officials or those being used for educational purposes and approved by the principal. Students bringing firearms to school or possessing look-alike weapons at school will be subject to discipline possibly including expulsion. Parents of students found in violation of this policy may be contacted, and the students may be reported to law enforcement officials. For complete details, please reference Board Policy 502.6.

INAPPROPRIATE STUDENT BEHAVIOR

At Grundy Center Elementary, we are committed to providing every student with a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment. We believe behavior is a skill that is taught, practiced, reinforced, and corrected. Our goal is to help students learn from mistakes while maintaining a classroom where every child has the opportunity to learn.

When behavior concerns arise, staff use a progressive approach based on the severity and frequency of the behavior.

Level 1 – Teacher Managed: Most behavior concerns are addressed by the classroom teacher through reteaching expectations, redirection, restorative conversations, classroom consequences, and other supportive strategies.
Level 2 – Office Supported: If behaviors become repeated or significantly disrupt learning, school staff work together to provide additional support. This may include administrator involvement, parent communication, problem-solving, or other interventions. Office support does not automatically mean a student will be removed from the classroom.
Level 3 – Immediate Administrative Response: Behaviors that create a safety concern require an immediate administrative response. Student and staff safety is always our highest priority.

Classroom Removal

State law allows teachers to request the temporary removal of a student when the student's behavior substantially disrupts instruction, prevents teaching or learning, or creates a safety concern. When this occurs, the student is escorted to a designated support location where school staff work with the student to help them regulate, reflect, and prepare for a successful return to the classroom.

Temporary classroom removal is intended to restore a safe and productive learning environment for all students while providing appropriate support to the student involved. Before returning to class, the student participates in a reentry process with school staff to review expectations, identify needed supports, and promote future success. Parents or guardians will be contacted when appropriate or required.

Students with disabilities will continue to receive all protections and services required by their Individualized Education Program (IEP), Section 504 Plan, and applicable state and federal laws.

Students are expected to comply with and abide by the school district's policies, rules, regulations and student handbook. This includes Board policies 503.8 and 503.8R1 regarding violence and threats of violence. Students who fail to abide by the school district's policies, rules, regulations and student handbook may be disciplined for conduct which disrupts or interferes with the education program; conduct which disrupts the orderly and efficient operation of the school district or school activity; conduct which disrupts the rights of other students to obtain their education or to participate in school activities; or conduct which interrupts the maintenance of a disciplined atmosphere. Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to, removal from the classroom, detention, suspension, probation and expulsion. The discipline imposed is based upon the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident and the student's record. For complete details, please reference Board Policy 503.1.

JURISDICTIONAL AND BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS

This handbook is an extension of board policy and is a reflection of the goals and objectives of the school board. The board, administration, and employees expect students to conduct themselves in a manner fitting to their age level and maturity and with respect and consideration for the rights of others. Students, teachers, employees and visitors are expected to treat each other with respect and courtesy so that all may be safe within the school environment. Students may not use abusive language, profanity or obscene gestures or language.

The school reserves and retains the right to modify, eliminate or establish school district policies, rules, regulations and student handbook provisions as circumstances warrant, including those contained in the handbook. Students are expected to know the contents of the handbook and comply with it. Students or parents with questions or concerns may contact the superintendent’s office for information about the current enforcement of the policies, rules, regulations or student handbook of the school district.

LEADER IN ME

The goals of The Leader in Me are to create a culture of trust and engagement, empower students to lead their own lives and make a difference with others, provide students tools to better achieve goals, and develop student voice. You can learn more at the end of this handbook and at leaderinme.org

In 2023, Grundy Center Elementary joined a growing group of local Leader in Me schools called Leader Valley. This organization helps us best utilize our resources and SYNERGIZE with local schools. More information can be found at LeaderValley.org.

Check out the 7 Habits Tree!

What is The Leader in Me?

MONEY AT SCHOOL

Students should not carry extra money to school, unless it is for Friday’s school store. They should carry money for meals in a safe place and give it to the office upon arriving at school. You should also be concerned if your child “comes up” with extra money found at school, or if he/she comes home with items bought from other students. Students are not allowed to independently sell items of any kind at school.

PARTY INVITATIONS

Problems that may cause hurt feelings and affect class work may develop regarding invitations to parties or other non-school activities being handed out at school. Therefore, party invitations will not be distributed at school, unless all students in the classroom are invited. Also, the school will not give out addresses and/or phone numbers of students.

PRIVACY OF SCHOOL RECORDS LAWS

For Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) compliance, please visit the school’s website at spartanpride.net.

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION

Students accept the responsibility of conducting themselves in a manner that is not subject to question. A public display of affection between students is considered offensive and unacceptable behavior.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE

School district property is held in public trust by the board. School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search students or protected student areas based on a reasonable and articulable suspicion that the search will produce evidence that a school district policy, rule, regulation or law is being or has been violated. The search is in a manner reasonable in scope to maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students, employees and visitors to the school district facilities. The furnishing of a locker, desk or other facility or space owned by the school and provided as a courtesy to a student, even if the student provides the lock for it, will not create a protected student area and will not give rise to an expectation of privacy with respect to the locker, desk, or other facility. For complete information, reference Board Policy 502.8, 502.8E1, and 502.8R1.

TELEPHONE MESSAGES

Except in an emergency, the building does not call students to the telephone. In case of necessity, please call the office, and a message will be delivered. Please plan before school with your child where to go after school or during early dismissals.

THREATS OF VIOLENCE

All threats of violence, whether oral, written, or symbolic, against students, employees, visitors, or to school facilities are prohibited. All such threats will be promptly investigated. Law enforcement, including the School Resource Officer, may be contacted. Threats issued and delivered away from school or school activities may be grounds for disciplinary action if the threat impacts the orderly and efficient operation of the school. This includes Board policies 503.8 and 503.8R1 regarding violence and threats of violence.

Students engaging in threatening behavior will face disciplinary consequences up to and including expulsion. The following factors will be considered in determining the extent to which a student will be disciplined for threatening or terroristic behavior; the background of the student, including any history of violence or prior threatening behavior; the student’s access to weapons of any kind; the circumstances surrounding the threat; the age of the student; the mental and emotional maturity of the student; cooperation of the student and his or her parent(s) or guardian(s) in the investigation; the existence of the student’s juvenile or criminal history; the degree of legitimate alarm or concern in the school community created by the threat; and any other relevant information from any credible source.

TOYS

Toys are to be left at home unless teacher-approved. This includes toys intended for use at recess.

TECHNOLOGY

DISTRICT TECHNOLOGY USAGE

Instructional Technology and Student Device Use

Grundy Center Elementary values technology as a tool to enhance teaching and learning while recognizing the importance of hands-on learning, collaboration, discussion, movement, and direct teacher instruction. Instructional technology is intended to support and enhance foundational learning—not replace the essential role of teachers, direct instruction, reading, writing, discussion, problem-solving, and authentic learning experiences.

In accordance with Iowa law, the district limits planned instructional use of individual student electronic devices for students in grades K–5. Teachers intentionally design lessons that provide a balanced learning experience using both digital and non-digital instructional methods.

Teacher-led instruction using classroom technology, such as SmartBoards, interactive panels, projectors, or document cameras, does not count toward the daily individual student device time limit because students are not individually using electronic devices.

Students will not use personal instructional electronic devices during recess except as permitted by law or as required by an Individualized Education Program (IEP), Section 504 Plan, or other authorized accommodation.

Iowa law also provides exceptions for certain instructional activities, including accommodations required through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan, assistive technology, state-required assessments, computer science instruction, and other uses permitted by law.

Parents and guardians who wish to request additional reductions in their child's use of instructional technology beyond the requirements of Iowa law are encouraged to contact the building principal. The district will work collaboratively with families to review requests and determine appropriate accommodations consistent with educational needs and state requirements.

The district has established procedures to support compliance with these requirements and will update those procedures as needed based on guidance from the Iowa Department of Education and changes in state law.

USE OF THE NETWORK

Students will not intentionally access or download any text file or picture, or engage in any conference that includes material which is obscene, libelous, indecent, vulgar, profane or lewd; advertises any product or service not permitted to minors by law; constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses others; or presents a clear and present likelihood that, either because of its content or the manner of distribution, it will cause a material and substantial disruption of the proper and orderly operation and discipline of the school or school activities, will cause the commission of unlawful acts or the violation of lawful school regulations.

It is the student’s responsibility to protect their account information. The use of the network is a privilege and may be restricted or taken away for violation of Board policy or regulations. It is the user’s responsibility to abide by the policies and procedures of any accessed network or site. Students will adhere to appropriate online behavior at all times including respect for all copyright and license agreements and citation of all references and sources. Students are also expected to apply the same privacy, ethical, and educational considerations utilized in other forms of communication. For complete details, please reference Board Policy 605.6.

HEALTH, WELL-BEING, AND SAFETY

SEXUAL ABUSE AND PHYSICAL ABUSE OF STUDENTS BY SCHOOL EMPLOYEES

Grundy Center Community School District does not tolerate physical or sexual abuse of students, including but not limited to sexual or physical relationships, grooming behavior, and otherwise inappropriate relationships with students by employees. Students who feel they have been violated in the above manner by an employee should notify their parent or guardian, and report to the student abuse by calling Iowa’s abuse hotline at 1-800-362-2178. The district will respond promptly to allegations of abuse of students by school district employees by timely reporting to all relevant agencies as required by law. The processing of a complaint will be handled confidentially to the maximum extent possible.

ACCESS TO BUILDINGS

At times, the elementary may have limitations on visitors coming to school. Security experts have recommended limiting access to students during school hours as an important strategy in protecting students. For that reason, Grundy Center Schools will lock all exterior doors during school hours and buzz visitors into the building through a secure point of access via use of a video phone doorbell system.

ANIMALS AND PETS

Live animals will not be allowed in school district facilities except under special circumstances (professional therapy dogs) and only for an educational purpose. Permission from the principal will be required of anyone wishing to bring an animal into school district facilities. Appropriate supervision of animals is required when animals are brought into the school district facilities. Pets are not allowed on the playground, field, or on school property when picking up or dropping off students.

ANTI-BULLYING AND HARASSMENT

Anti-Bullying and Harassment Policy Summary (Board Policy 104)

At Grundy Center Community School District, every student has the right to feel safe, respected, and valued. Bullying and harassment of any kind—whether in person, online, or through others—will not be tolerated. This includes repeated or targeted behavior that causes harm, creates fear, or makes it harder for someone to participate in school. Any report of bullying or harassment will be taken seriously, investigated quickly, and addressed appropriately. Retaliation for reporting or participating in an investigation is strictly prohibited.

How to Report Bullying or Harassment

If you or someone you know is being bullied or harassed, speak up. You can report it in any of the following ways:

Tell a trusted teacher, counselor, or administrator in person
Submit an online report (Safe+Sound) using the district’s reporting form (link available on the school website)
Have a parent/guardian contact the school on your behalf

Bullying/Harassment Investigation: Administrator Steps to follow -

Respond Quickly - Report is taken seriously and documented. Parents/guardians of the alleged victim are notified within 24 hours. Safety steps are taken if needed.

Accept the report and document it.
Notify the victim’s parent/guardian within 24 hours.
Take any needed steps to ensure safety.

Investigate Promptly - Administrator interviews all people involved (students and witnesses) and reviews evidence. All information is kept as private as possible.

Interview all involved: victim, accused, and witnesses.
Review evidence (messages, video, etc.).
Maintain confidentiality.

Determine If Policy Was Violated - A decision is made using the school policy. The focus: Was it targeted, harmful, or based on a specific trait?

Determine if the behavior meets the bullying/harassment definition.
The administrator evaluates whether it was repeated, targeted, and harmful.

Take Action - If bullying/harassment occurred, appropriate consequences are given and support is provided. If not, the situation is still addressed respectfully. False reports or retaliation are not allowed.

If confirmed, apply appropriate consequences and support the victim.
If unconfirmed, address the situation as needed (support, mediation, etc.).
Individuals who knowingly file false bullying or harassment complaints and any person who gives false statements in an investigation may be subject to discipline by appropriate measures.

Follow Up & Document - Families are informed of the general outcome. The situation is monitored for retaliation, and all paperwork is completed and filed.

Communicate a general outcome to both families.
Monitor for retaliation.
File documentation per district and state guidelines.

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

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

“Harassment” and “bullying” mean any repeated and targeted electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or conduct toward an individual that creates an objectively hostile school environment that meets one or more of the following conditions:

Places the individual in reasonable fear of harm to the individual’s person or property.
Has a substantial detrimental effect on the individual’s physical or mental health.
Has the effect of substantially interfering with the individual’s academic or career performance. Has the effect of substantially interfering with the individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

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

CELL PHONE/SMART WATCH POLICY

Cell Phone & Personal Smart Device Policy

Cell phones and other personal smart devices (such as smartwatches and fitness trackers with communication features) are allowed in the school building but must not disrupt the learning environment. The expectations include:

Upon entering the building, all devices must be silenced and stored in bags or backpacks until school is over.
If a parent or guardian needs to contact a student during the school day or during an emergency, they should call the elementary office at (319) 825-5461, and the message will be relayed.

Parents/guardians may submit a written request to the administration if their student needs regular access to a phone for a documented physical or mental health need. This includes health conditions requiring mobile apps, check-ins, or contact with healthcare providers. Each case will be reviewed individually, and accommodations will be documented through a student support plan.

Violations of this policy are tracked over the course of the entire school year and do not reset at the start of a new trimester. The school reserves the legal right to examine any phone or smart device used in a way that violates school rules or policies. Habitual violations of this policy may result in additional consequences, including suspension from school.

1st Offense:

Student is reminded to silence and store the device in their backpack.
Teacher reviews the cell phone policy and expectations with the student and completes a minor office referral.

2nd Offense:

Teacher or staff member collects the device, turns it into the office to be stored securely, and completes a major office referral.
Administration meets with the student to review expectations.
The student may retrieve the device from the office at the end of the school day.

3rd Offense:

Teacher or staff member collects the device, turns it into the office to be stored securely, and completes a major office referral.
Administration contacts the parent/guardian.
The device will only be returned when a parent comes to the school to pick it up.
A Device Use Contract may be implemented, requiring the student to check the device in and out daily for the remainder of the term.

COLD WEATHER GUIDELINES

When the temperature and/or wind chill is below 0 degrees, students will not go outside. These are maximum wind chill guidelines. If at any time the recess supervisor(s) believe it is too cold, he/she will bring students inside regardless of time or temperature. Students will be expected to have appropriate dress for weather conditions. The Grundy Center Elementary weather station will be used when determining the outside temperature and wind chill.

COMMUNICABLE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

The school or nurse’s office should be notified when a student has a communicable condition so appropriate measures may be taken. The term "communicable disease" will mean an infectious or contagious disease spread from person to person, or animal to person, or as defined by law. Infectious or communicable diseases include, but are not limited to influenza, mumps, measles, strep throat, meningitis, and chicken pox.

When should my child be kept at home, and when can he/she attend school?

Fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or more – child should stay home until 24 hours after the temperature returns to normal without fever reducing medicine

Vomiting or diarrhea – child should stay home until 24 hours after the last episode
Rash that may be disease-related or the cause is unknown – check with your health care provider before sending the child to school.

Communicable disease (as listed above) Child should seek treatment and return to school as directed by provider.

Persistent Cough - Children with a persistent cough that interferes with learning should stay home until cough improves.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT, RESTRAINT AND CONFINEMENT

State law forbids school employees from using corporal punishment against any student. Certain actions by school employees are not considered corporal punishment. Additionally, school employees may use “reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain” to do certain things, such as prevent harm to persons or property. State law also places limits on school employees’ abilities to restrain or confine and detain any student. The law limits why, how, where, and for how long a school employee may restrain or confine and detain a child. If a child is restrained or confined and detained, the school must maintain documentation and must provide certain types of notice to the child’s parent. Employees are trained annually on this law. For complete details, please reference Board Policy 503.5.

DENTAL SCREENINGS

Iowa law requires all enrolling kindergarten students to have a record of dental screening (between the ages of 3 and 6) on file at their school.

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

At the beginning of each school year, parents must designate/update emergency contacts in Infinite Campus to provide emergency telephone numbers of the parents (with priority to call) as well as alternate persons to contact in the event the school is unable to locate the parents. Students may be released to alternate persons listed if necessary. If emergency information changes, parents should contact the elementary office of changes.

EMERGENCY DRILLS AND PROTOCOLS

Periodically, the school holds emergency fire (4), tornado (4), intruder (3), and bus evacuation (2) drills. At the beginning of each year, teachers notify students of the procedures to follow in the event of a drill. Emergency procedures and proper exit areas are posted in all rooms. Students are expected to remain quiet and orderly during a drill or an emergency. Students who pull the fire alarm or call in false alarms, in addition to being disciplined under the school district's policies, rules and regulations, may be reported to law enforcement officials.

FIRE: The fire alarm is a constant horn sound over the blinking fire alarms. All persons in the building should move to the proper exit immediately. Keep in line and do not push. Teachers will designate safe areas to reconvene.

TORNADO/DISASTER: The signal will be an all call on the p.a. system. All persons in the building should move to their designated area in the building and remain there until given the all-clear signal.

INTRUDER: An announcement will be made over the intercom. Teachers will implement ALICE procedures and respond appropriately to the given situation. Options include: lockout (students stay indoors, business as usual), lockdown (students remain in locked room, hide) and evacuate (leave the building). Posters around the school provide a visual reminder of these terms.

ILLNESS AND RECESS

If you feel your child needs to stay inside during recess the day after an illness, a note from a parent/guardian is required. A doctor’s note is required to stay inside for longer than one day.

HAWK-I INSURANCE

Parents can apply for low- or no-cost health insurance for their children through the state’s Healthy and Well Kids in Iowa (HAWK-I) program. Children birth to 19, who meet certain criteria, are eligible. The coverage includes doctor’s visits, hearing services, dental care, prescription, immunizations, physical therapy, vision care, speech therapy and hospital services to name a few. Parents are urged to call 1-800-257-8563 (toll-free) or go to the web site at www.hawk-i.org for more information.

HEAD LICE

Head lice is a concern seen in our school each year. Parents should assume that lice are present where children are and should screen their own children on a weekly basis. If your child contracts head lice, you may contact the school nurse for information and treatment protocol. Grundy Center Community School District follows Iowa Department of Public Health guidelines to assist in the management and control of head lice in the school setting. Students are not excluded or sent home from school if they have head lice, though treatment should be started before returning to school the next day.

ILLNESS OR INJURY AT SCHOOL

A student who becomes ill or is injured at school must notify a teacher or another employee as soon as possible. The student will also be referred to the building nurse or school secretary. In the case of a serious illness or injury, the school shall attempt to notify the parents according to the information on the emergency form. If the student is too ill to remain in school, the student will be released to the student’s parents or, with parental permission, to another person directed by the parents. The Grundy Center Community School District nurses follow guidelines of the Iowa Department of Public Health regarding student’s need for exclusion from school.

While the school district is not responsible for treating medical emergencies, employees may administer emergency or minor first aid if possible. The school will contact emergency medical personnel, if necessary, and attempt to notify the parents where the student has been transported for treatment.

IMMUNIZATIONS AND HEALTH SCREENINGS

Iowa law mandates that all children enrolled in public elementary schools provide a valid Certificate of Immunization, Medical or Religious Exemption, or Provisional Certificate from the Iowa Department of Public Health prior to enrollment. Public schools are prohibited from enrolling a child without one of these documents .

The required vaccines for Kindergarten through Grade 4 include:

Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis (DTaP/Tdap) – Recommended full series, typically 5 doses with at least one after the 4th birthday (depending on birth year)
Polio (IPV/OPV) – Typically 4 doses with one after age 4 depending on birthdate
Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) – 2 doses: first dose at or after 12 months of age; second dose at least 28 days later
Hepatitis B – 3‑dose series for those born on or after July 1, 1994
Varicella (Chickenpox) – 1 or 2 doses depending on birth year and documented disease history

If you will not be able to provide a complete immunization record for your child, it is imperative that you contact your child’s school nurse before the first day of school.

LEAD TESTING

Iowa law requires all children entering kindergarten to be tested for lead poisoning. Please contact your health care provider or the Grundy County Public Health at 319.824.6312 to schedule your child’s blood level test.

MANDATORY CHILD ABUSE REPORTING

In compliance with state law and to provide protection to victims of child abuse, the board believes incidents of alleged child abuse should be reported to the proper authorities. Employees are encouraged, and employees over the age of 18 are required as mandatory reporters, to report alleged incidents of child abuse they become aware of within the scope of their professional duties.

When a mandatory reporter suspects a student is the victim of child abuse, the mandatory reporter will immediately notify the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. If the mandatory reporter believes the child is in immediate danger, the local law enforcement agency will also be notified. Within forty-eight hours after making an oral report, the mandatory reporter will file a written report with the Iowa Department of Human Services.

MEDICATIONS TO STUDENTS

Students may need to take prescription or non-prescription medication during school hours. Students may carry medication only with the permission of the parents and principal. The school must know the medications a student is taking in the event the student has a reaction or illness. Students must provide written instructions for administration of the medication as well as parental authorization to administer the medication. Forms can be found in the school office or on the school website.

Medication is held in a locked cabinet and distributed by the school nurse or certified office staff. Medication must be in the original container with the following information either on the container, in the instruction sheet or in the parental authorization: name of the student; name of the medication; directions for use, including dosage; times and duration; name, phone number and address of the pharmacy; date of the prescription; name of the physician; potential side effects; and emergency number for parents.

NURSE

The school nurse:

Provides direct health care to students and staff

Provides leadership for the provision of health services

Provides screening and referral for health conditions

Promotes a healthy school environment

Promotes health

Serves in a leadership role for health policies and programs

Serves as a liaison between school personnel, family, community, and health care providers.

The school nurse is in the district part-time on a weekly basis serving both the elementary and secondary buildings. To contact her when she is in the district you can call the building office and they will transfer your call. If you need to visit with her in person, please request a meeting.

PARENTS' ROLE DURING EMERGENCIES

Providing a safe place for students to learn and grow is one of the most important responsibilities of any school system. Along with school officials, teachers and staff, school families play a critical role in preventing and responding to school emergencies. This information is intended to provide parents and guardians with the steps you can take before, during and after an emergency.

Please update your contact information in Infinite Campus during registration or by calling the elementary school office. This will ensure you receive information and updates during emergency situations.

Review and update information regarding who can legally pick-up your child during an emergency. Once this information is on file, you should ensure that those people are aware they have been listed as your “emergency contacts,” and that they may receive messages via phone and/or e-mail during an emergency, weather early out, or other situation.

Create your own family emergency plan. Develop a family communication plan and have a supply kit to sustain you and your family for two to three days. For tips on how to prepare a plan go to www.bereadyiowa.org.

During an emergency, do not call the school nor your child’s cell phone. This can tie up needed phone lines and can hinder efforts to communicate. Calling your child’s cell phone may prevent them from hearing important information. Students will be able to use cell phones if they need immediate assistance and once they are safe.

Do not report to your child’s school during emergency situations. Law enforcement officials will not allow entry to the school site during a lockdown.

The school district is committed to providing parents and guardians with the latest and most accurate information available. In most cases the district will send brief email messages through Infinite Campus in an emergency. In today’s world, it is likely that once safe, students will be texting and calling parents immediately. Be aware that information you receive from your child may not always be accurate; ensure the information you are using is official and comes directly from the Grundy Center Community School District. If the building is evacuated, parents will be directed to a specific location.

SAFE+SOUND

As part of Grundy Center Community School District’s commitment to our students’ safety and mental health, we are pleased to introduce Safe+Sound Iowa—a free, anonymous school violence reporting tool. Students, parents, teachers, and other community members can help identify and provide intervention for students in crisis before they harm themselves or others.

Reports can be made securely and anonymously:

Online at SafeandSoundIowa.gov
Through the Safe+Sound Iowa mobile app, or
By phone at 800-224-6018.

Trained dispatchers monitor reports 24/7 and immediately engage in two-way communication with those raising concerns. They then reach out to the appropriate local school safety contact, law enforcement, or other community partners.

VISION AND HEARING SCREENINGS

Vision Screening is required no more than one year before enrollment or within six months after entering kindergarten and third grade, using the official Iowa Vision Card .

Two screenings are organized annually by the Grundy Center School District nurses. Vision screenings are completed for all students in kindergarten and 3rd grade, and as needed.

The Central Rivers Area Education Agency staff completes hearing screenings annually for students in Kindergarten through 2nd grade, and as necessary. Parents will be notified only if there is a concern regarding the results of the screenings. Please notify the school nurse if you do not want your child to participate in the screenings.

VISITING SCHOOL

Minors and students unaccompanied by adults are not permitted to visit the elementary school occasionally. All visitors must report to the office immediately upon their arrival to the building. We ask for no visitors the first and last weeks of the school year and no photos be taken in the lunchroom.

WATER BOTTLES

Students are allowed to bring water bottles to the classroom during the day. Water bottle filling stations are available in the building to use as necessary. Water bottles should be labeled and not shared. Using water bottles inappropriately may result in privileges being taken away

STUDENT SERVICES

SCHOOL COUNSELOR

A full-time professional school counselor is available to serve all students. The counselor works with students individually, in small groups, and in the classroom once a 6-day cycle for 25 minutes at each grade level. Counselors collaborate with teachers concerning the academic and social/emotional needs of individual students in school. The counselor may also collaborate with parents/guardians by conferencing regarding their child’s social adjustments and emotional well-being and connect parents/guardians to outside community resources and agencies.

LOST AND FOUND

A lost and found is maintained by the office and lunch room steps. It is the child’s responsibility to check periodically if he/she has lost something. Student clothing and other items should be clearly labeled. If your child has lost an item, we will do everything possible to help him/her find it. Money, purses, wallets, watches, and other valuable items are to be turned in to the office. Students are urged to make prompt inquiry concerning such items. At the end of the school year, clothing and other items are donated to Trinkets and Togs in Grundy Center.

NUTRITION SERVICES

Menus are posted on the Grundy Center Community School website and sent home with the monthly Spartan Scoop newsletter to parents through Infinite Campus. All meals meet or exceed the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) guidelines.

Taher provides a FREE app that can be downloaded to see our digital breakfast and lunch menus. In addition, the app provides nutrition data and allergen information.

Free and Reduced Applications

A new free/reduced meal eligibility application must be completed and submitted each year. Free and reduced price meal eligibility applications for each new school year will become available in late July. You can apply for eligibility through the online application or by filling out a paper application.

Join us for Breakfast or Lunch

We encourage guests to join their children for breakfast or lunch on special occasions. Guests should check in and pay at the office. NO PHOTOS ARE ALLOWED IN THE LUNCHROOM.

Payment for School Meals

Parents can pay for meals on-line at the school website via credit card: VISA, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express, or by sending money to the school office.

Account Balance Notice

When a meal account reaches $20.00, an email will be sent to the parent/guardian reminding them of the meal account balance. Families with negative account balances should send a meal to school with their child(ren) until the account is brought current or a payment schedule has been established. Please reference Board Policy 710.4 for the district’s meal charge policy. For questions regarding meal accounts, please contact Chad Wagner at 319.825.5418

2024-2025 Nutrition Prices

Student

BREAKFAST $2.05

LUNCH $3.15

Reduced Student

BREAKFAST $0.30

LUNCH $0.40

Adult

BREAKFAST $2.50

LUNCH $5.15

PROFESSIONAL THERAPY DOGS

Professional School Therapy Dogs certified with their owners/handlers as Certified Assistance Dog Teams provide emotional and physical support in the educational setting. These highly trained dogs model good behavior, tolerance, and acceptance. All Certified Assistance Dog Teams in the Grundy Center School District work to support and positively influence student achievement. All students and teachers receive therapy dog training in order to have the therapy dog visit their classrooms. These rooms are designated with decals in the windows by the doorways. Teachers may choose additional training to become handlers. No children will be forced to interact with a therapy dog. For more information, please visit the District tab at spartanpride.net

SCHOOL FEES

The school district charges fees for certain items, such as textbook rental. Grundy Center school fees for the current year are available on the Grundy Center Community School website spartanpride.net. Students whose families meet the income guidelines for free and reduced price lunch, the Family Investment Program (FIP), transportation assistance under open enrollment, or students who are in foster care are eligible to have their student fees waived or partially waived. Grundy Center school fees for the current year are available on the Grundy Center Community School website spartanpride.net.

SPARTAN SENATE

Representatives from the elementary school are selected to serve on Spartan Senate. Senators work as a team to promote citizenship throughout the elementary, and to provide service to the school and the community. A few popular services are Friday announcements and the Friday school store.

STUDENT ACTIVITY TICKETS

Students may purchase a student activity ticket for admission to certain school district activities. Students not wishing to purchase an activity ticket must pay regular prices to attend school district activities.

PARENT AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

CUSTODY AND PARENTAL RIGHTS

Disagreements between family members are not the responsibility of the school district per Board Policy 507.7. The school district will not take the "side" of one family member over another in a disagreement about custody or parental rights. Court orders that have been issued and are provided to the district will be followed by the school district to the extent permitted by law. It is the responsibility of the person requesting an action by the school district to inform and provide the school district the court order allowing such action. This policy does not prohibit an employee from listening to a student's problems and concerns.

PARENT CONCERNS

Healthy home and school communications are critical in the school success of children. If concerns arise, parents are asked to first contact their child’s classroom teacher. If they believe the teachers are not responsive to the concerns, then please contact the school principal. For complete details, please reference Board Policy 502.4.

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS

The Grundy Center Community School District’s Board of Directors are elected at large for four-year voluntary terms. The Board of Education follows a governance model. In this process, the Board gives direction to the school district as to their priorities and goals, and the administration then develops the best procedures and practices to fulfill those goals.

The Board invites you to attend its meetings. They normally meet on the third Wednesday of the month. The meetings are open to the public and held in the Administration Building at 1301 12th Street. For a complete list of school board meeting dates, please visit our website at www.Spartanpride.net

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL (SIAC)

The School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) is a liaison group which provides parents, community members, staff members, and students the ability to provide input into decision-making of the district. The word “advisory” is definitive; that is, to test ideas without final decision-making authority. The term of office for all SIAC members will be a commitment of at least one year.

SECTION 504 AND PARENTAL RIGHTS

The Grundy Center Community Schools does not discriminate in its educational programs and activities on the basis of a student's disability. It has been determined that your child has a qualifying disability for which accommodations may need to be made to meet his or her individual needs as adequately as the needs of other students. For complete information, such as parental rights, please reference Board Policy 102.E3. For complaint forms, please reference Board Policies 102.E4 and 102.E5.

VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

The board recognizes the valuable resource it has in the members of the school district community. If you would like to volunteer, please contact the elementary school office.

DISTRICT INFORMATION

ASBESTOS NOTIFICATION

Asbestos has been an issue of concern for many years. The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986 (AHERA) was designed to determine the extent of asbestos concerns in the schools and to act as a guide in formulating asbestos management policies for the schools. The school district facilities have been inspected by a certified asbestos inspector as required by AHERA. The inspector located, and determined the condition and hazard potential of all material in the school facilities suspected of containing asbestos. A certified management planner has developed an asbestos management plan for the school district facilities which includes: notification letters, training for employees, a set of procedures designed to minimize the disturbance of asbestos- containing materials, and plans for regular surveillance of the materials. A copy of the management plan is available for inspection in the district office.

BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

The Grundy Center School District does not provide a before and after school program, however, the local Grundy County YMCA operates from 1001 8th Street. Before and after care is available. If you are interested, please call the YMCA at 319-825-6210.

COMPETENT PRIVATE INSTRUCTION/DUAL ENROLLMENT

Parents of children who are of compulsory education age (six years of age by September 15 and younger than sixteen years of age) may choose to provide private instruction outside of the public school setting. Instruction can be provided by a non-licensed person or by a licensed practitioner. Parents may also request dual enrollment with the district. This permits participation in a limited number of classes, special education, or extra-curricular activities. Home school students enrolled in classes or participating in school activities in the school district are subject to the same policies, rules and regulations as other students and are disciplined in the same manner as other students. Information pertaining to private instruction and dual enrollment can be obtained by contacting the District Office (319.825.5418).

HOMELESS STUDENTS

In accordance with 281 IAC Chapter 33, the Grundy Center Community School District is required to give written notice to homeless children and families if the district is going to deny access to their educational programs. Brent Thoren, the At-Risk Coordinator, is the homeless liaison for the school district.

Chapter 33 of the Iowa Administrative Code defines “homeless child or youth” as a child or youth from the age of three years through 21 years who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and includes the following:

A child or youth who is sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship,

or a similar reason; is living in a motel, hotel, trailer park, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations; is living in an emergency or transitional shelter; is abandoned in a hospital; or is awaiting foster care placement;

A child or youth who has a primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings;

A child or youth who is living in a car, park, public space, abandoned building, substandard housing, bus or train station, or similar setting; or

A migratory child or youth who qualifies as homeless because the child or youth is living in circumstances described in paragraphs “1” through “3” above.

HOMEWORK

Teachers assign homework, extra class activities or assignments as necessary. Homework is an opportunity for students to practice skills and activities, to share and discuss ideas, to review materials, to become acquainted with resources, to organize thoughts, to prepare for classroom activities or to make-up incomplete class work. Students are expected to complete homework on time.

LEGAL STATUS OF STUDENT

If a student’s legal status, such as the student’s name or the student’s custodial arrangement, should change during the school year, the parent or guardian must notify the school district. Please contact the elementary office to ensure that the school district has a current student record.

OPEN ENROLLMENT

Iowa’s open enrollment law allows students residing in one school district to request transfer to another school district upon the parents’ request. Students wishing to open enroll to another school district must apply for open enrollment as determined by the Iowa Department of Education. Open enrolled students from low-income families may qualify for transportation assistance. Students interested in open enrolling out of the school district must contact the district’s office for information and forms. The Board of Education will continue to evaluate annual open enrollment policies.

STANDARDIZED TESTS

Students are given standardized tests throughout the year. These tests are used to determine academic progress for individual students, for groups of students, for the school district and to comply with state law. All students are tested as indicated below.

Standardized tests given include the following:

FAST Reading and Math Assessment – grades K through 4

ISASP (Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress) – grades 3 and 4

COGAT (Cognitive Abilities Test) – As part of extended learning program qualification

STUDENT MEDIA INTERVIEWS

During the course of the school year, students may be interviewed from time to time by newspaper, television, radio or other reporters in regard to projects, activities and other school events. This is considered a part of the district’s directory information consent policy, along with photos, video, and other media. If you object to your student being interviewed in this manner, please check the appropriate box on the student information form during registration.

TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN

Transitional Kindergarten is an application/selection based program that provides an early grade level INTERVENTION for students most at academic risk of not being successful in the kindergarten classroom. Parents may apply during round up in the spring. More information can be found at spartanpride.net

EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY

EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

The Grundy Center Community School District offers career and technical programs in the following areas of study:

• Agricultural, Food, and Natural Resources

• Applied Science, Technology, Engineering, and Manufacturing

• Arts, Communication, and Information Systems

• Business, Finance, Marketing, and Management

• Health Science

• Human Services

Title: K-12 Assistant Principal

Location: 1006 M Ave, Grundy Center, IA 50638

Telephone: (319) 825-5449

the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chavez Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, Telephone: (303) 844-5695 FAX: (303) 844-4303, TDD: (800) 877-8339, Email: OCR.Denver@ed.gov.

The Grundy Center Community School District does not discriminate in its educational programs, activities or employment practices on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, sexual orientation, age (for employment), and actual or potential parental, family or marital status (for programs).

There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy or for information about the district’s grievance procedures please contact:

Title: K-12 Assistant Principal

Location: 1006 M Ave, Grundy Center, IA 50638

Telephone: (319) 825-5449

Or:

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

The Grundy Center Community School District does not discriminate in its educational programs, activities and employment practices on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, sexual orientation, age (for employment), actual or potential parental, family, or marital status (for programs). The belief in equal educational opportunity serves as a guide for the board and employees in making decisions relating to school district facilities, employment, selection of educational materials, equipment, curriculum, and regulations affecting students. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy or for information about the district’s grievance procedure, please contact the Assistant Principal , 1006 M Ave, Grundy Center, IA 50638 319-825-5449.

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

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

Inquiries by students regarding compliance with equal educational opportunity and affirmative action laws and policies, including but not limited to complaints of discrimination, are directed to the Affirmative Action Coordinator by writing to the Affirmative Action Coordinator, Grundy Center Community School District, Grundy Center, Iowa, 50638; or by telephoning 319-825-5418.

Inquiries by students regarding compliance with equal educational opportunity laws and policies, including but not limited to complaints of discrimination, may also be directed in writing to the Director of the Office of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Cesar E. Chaves Memorial Building, 1244 Speer Boulevard, Suite 310, Denver, CO 80204-3582, (303) 844-5695 Fax: (303) 844-4303, TDD: (800) 877-8339, Email OCR.Denver@ed.gov, the Iowa Civil Rights Commissioner, 6200 Park Avenue, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA 50321-1270 https://icrc.iowa.gov, (515) 281-4121 or the Iowa Dept. of Education, Grimes State Office Bldg., Des Moines, IA 50319. (515) 281-5294. This inquiry or complaint to the federal or state office may be done instead of, or in addition to, an inquiry or complaint at the local level.

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