MSBA/MASA Model Policy 101                                                     
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2004, 2017
Adopted January 17, 2017

101: LEGAL STATUS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT

I. PURPOSE

A primary principle of this nation is that the public welfare demands an educated and informed citizenry. The power to provide for public education is a state function vested in the state legislature and delegated to local school districts. The purpose of this policy is to clarify the legal status of the school district.

II.  GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A.  The school district is a public corporation subject to the control of the legislature, limited only by constitutional restrictions. The school district has been created for educational purposes.

B.  The legislature has authority to prescribe the school district's powers and privileges, its boundaries and territorial jurisdictions.

C.  The school district has only the powers conferred on it by the legislature; however, the school board's authority to govern, manage, and control the school district, to carry out its duties and responsibilities, and to conduct the business of the school district includes implied powers in addition to any specific powers granted by the legislature.

III.  RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER ENTITIES

A.  The school district is a separate legal entity.

B.  The school district is coordinate with and not subordinate to the county(ies) in which it is situated.

C.  The school district is not subservient to municipalities within its territory.

IV.  POWERS AND AUTHORITY OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT

A.  Funds

1.  The school district, through its school board, has authority to raise funds for the operation and maintenance of its schools and authority to manage and expend such funds, subject to applicable law.

2.  The school district has wide discretion over the expenditure of funds under its control for public purposes, subject to the limitations provided by law.

3.  School district officials occupy a fiduciary position in the management and expenditure of funds entrusted to them.

B.  Raising Funds

I.  The school district shall, within the limitations specified by law, provide by levy of tax necessary funds for the conduct of schools, payment of indebtedness, and all proper expenses.

2.  The school district may issue bonds in accordance with the provisions of Minn. Stat. Ch. 475, or other applicable law.

3.  The school district has authority to accept gifts and donations for school purposes, subject to applicable law.

C.  Property

I.  The school district may acquire property for school purposes. It may sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of property which is no longer needed for school purposes, subject to applicable law.

2.  The school district shall manage its property in a manner consistent with the educational functions of the district.

3.  The school district may permit the use of its facilities for community purposes which are not inconsistent with, nor disruptive of, its educational mission.

4.  School district officials hold school property as trustees for the use and benefit of students, taxpayers, and the community.

D. Contracts

I.  The school district is empowered to enter into contracts in the manner provided by law.

2.  The school district has authority to enter into installment purchases and leases with an option to purchase, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 465.71 or other applicable law.

3.  The school district has authority to make contracts with other governmental agencies and units for the purchase, lease or other acquisition of equipment, supplies, materials, or other property, including real property.

4.  The school district has authority to enter into employment contracts. As a public employer, the school district, through its designated representatives, shall meet and negotiate with public employees in an appropriate bargaining unit and enter into written collective bargaining agreements with such employees, subject to applicable law.

E. Textbooks, Educational Materials, and Studies

1.  The school district, through its school board and administrators, has the authority to determine what textbooks, educational materials, and studies should be pursued.

2.  The school district shall establish and apply the school curriculum.

F. Actions and Suits

The school district has authority to sue and to be sued.

Legal References:              

Minn. Const. art. 13, § 1
Minn. Stat. Ch. 123B (School Districts, Powers and Duties)
Minn. Stat. Ch. 179A (Public Employment Labor Relations) Minn. Stat. $ 465.035 (Conveyance or Lease of Land)
Minn. Stat. §§ 465.71; 471.345; 471.6161; 471.6175; 471.64 (Rights, Powers, Duties of Political Subdivisions)
Minnesota Association of Public Schools v. Hanson, 287 Minn. 415, 178 N.W.2d 846 (1970)
Independent School District No. 581 v. Mattheis, 275 Minn. 383, 147 N.W.2d 374 (1966)
Village of Blaine v. Independent School District No. 12, 272 Minn. 343, 138 N.W.2d 32 (1965)
Huffmnan v. School Board, 230 Minn. 289, 41 N.W.2d 455 (1950) State v. Lakeside Land Co., 71 Minn. 283, 73 N.W.970 (1898)

Cross References:            

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 201 (Legal Status of School Board)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 603 (Curriculum Development)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 604 (Instructional Curriculum)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 606 (Textbooks and Instructional Materials)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 704 (Development and Maintenance of an Inventory of Fixed Assets and a Fixed Asset Accounting System)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 705 (Investments)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 706 (Acceptance of Gifts)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 801 (Equal Access to School Facilities)
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 3, Employee Negotiations
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 13, School Law Bulletin "F" (Contract and Bidding Procedures)

Policy101.pdf 

Revised October 2024

102 EQUAL EDUCATION OPPORTUNITY

PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that equal educational opportunity is provided for all students of the school district.

GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

1. The policy of the school district is to provide equal educational opportunity for all students. The school district does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of one or more of the following: race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender, marital status, parental status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, sexual orientation, or age. The school district also makes reasonable accommodations for disabled students.

2. Students with disabilities are entitled to a free appropriate public education that includes general education, special education, and/or related aids and services.  The district will provide to students with disabilities appropriate educational services designed to meet the individual needs of such students to the same extent as the needs of students without disabilities are met.

3. The school district prohibits the harassment of any individual for any of the categories listed above. For information about the types of conduct that constitute violation of the school district’s policy on harassment and violence and the school district’s procedures for addressing such complaints, refer to the school district’s policy on harassment and violence.

4. This policy applies to all areas of education including academics, coursework, co-curricular and extracurricular activities, or other rights or privileges of enrollment.

5. Every school district employee shall be responsible for complying with this policy conscientiously.

6. Any student, parent, or guardian having a question regarding this policy should discuss it with the appropriate school district official as provided by policy. In the absence of a specific designee, an inquiry or a complaint should be referred to the superintendent.

7. The school district shall provide equal opportunity for members of each sex and to members of all races and ethnicities to participate in its athletic program. In determining whether equal opportunity to participate in athletic programs is available for the purposes of this law, at least the following factors shall be considered to the extent that they are applicable to a given situation: whether the opportunity for males and females to participate in the athletic program reflects the demonstrated interest in athletics of the males and females in the student body of the educational institution; whether the opportunity for members of all races and ethnicities to participate in the athletic program reflects the demonstrated interest in athletics of members of all races and ethnicities in the student body of the educational institution; whether the variety and selection of sports and levels of competition effectively accommodate the demonstrated interests of members of each sex; whether the variety and selection of sports and levels of competition effectively accommodate the demonstrated interests of members of all races and ethnicities; the provision of equipment and supplies; scheduling of games and practice times; assignment of coaches; provision of locker rooms; practice and competitive facilities; and the provision of necessary funds for teams of one sex.

8. The school board hereby designates Wendy Webster (office is at 3301 Silver Lake Rd. NE, St. Anthony, MN 55418; phone is 612-706-1170; e-mail is wwebster@stanthony.k12.mn.us as its Title IX coordinator. This employee coordinates the school district’s efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under Title IX.

9. Any student, parent, or guardian having questions regarding the application of Title IX and its regulations and/or this policy should discuss them with the Title IX coordinator. Questions relating solely to Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the United States Department of Education. In the absence of a specific designee, an inquiry or complaint should be referred to the superintendent or the school district human rights officer.

COORDINATOR

Persons who have questions or comments should contact The people identified below - the school district’s Americans with Disabilities Act/Section 504 coordinator.

GRIEVANCE REPORTING PROCEDURE

A. Refer to procedure 103.1- Grievance Procedure for Complaints of Discrimination.

B.

C. A student, parent, or employee can file a complaint with OCR at any time at:

Office for Civil Rights

Chicago Office
U.S. Department of Education
John C. Kluczynski Federal Building
230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor. Chicago, IL 60604.
Telephone: 312-730-1560
Facsimile: (312) 730-1576
Email: OCR.Chicago@ed.gov

D. Students, parents, and employees may file a complaint of discrimination with:

Minnesota Department of Human Rights

Griggs Midway Building
540 Fairview Avenue North, Suite 201. St. Paul, MN 55104.
Telephone: 1-800-657-3704 or (651) 539 1100
Email: Info.mdhr@state.mn.us

E. Employees may file a complaint of discrimination with:

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Towle Building
330 South 2nd Avenue, Suite 720. Minneapolis, MN 55401.
Telephone: (612) 552-7306
Fax: (612) 335-4066
TTY: 1-800-669-4000
ASL Video Phone: 1-844-234-5122

This document provides general information and is not to be a substitute for legal advice. Changes in the law, including timelines for filing a complaint, may affect your rights.

V. RESOURCES:

Office for Civil Rights

Chicago Office
U.S. Department of Education
John C. Kluczynski Federal Building
230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor. Chicago, IL 60604.
Telephone: 312-730-1560
Facsimile: (312) 730-1576
Email: OCR.Chicago@ed.gov

Reading Room, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights:

https://www.ed.gov/about/ed-offices/ocr/ocr-address-list

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 121A.03, Subd. 2 (Sexual, Religious, and Racial Harassment and Violence Policy) 

Minn. Stat. Ch. 363A (Minnesota Human Rights Act)

20 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq. (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972) 

42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq. (Americans with Disabilities Act) 

34 C.F.R. Section 104.7(b) (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act)

34 C.F.R. Section 106.8(b) (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972)

Cross References: MSBA/MASA Model Policy 402 (Disability Nondiscrimination) MSBA/MASA Model Policy 413 (Harassment and Violence) MSBA/MASA Model Policy 521 (Student Disability Nondiscrimination) MSBA/MASA Model Policy 522 (Student Sex Nondiscrimination)

March 5, 2019 MSBA/MASA Model Policy 103
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2005, 2019

103 COMPLAINTS – STUDENTS, EMPLOYEES, PARENTS, OTHER PERSONS

I. PURPOSE

The school district takes seriously all concerns or complaints by students, employees, parents or other persons. If a specific complaint procedure is provided within any other policy of the school district, the specific procedure shall be followed in reference to such a complaint. If a specific complaint procedure is not provided, the purpose of this policy is to provide a procedure that may be used.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A.  Students, parents, employees or other persons, may report concerns or complaints to the school district. While written reports are encouraged, a complaint may be made orally. Any employee receiving a complaint shall advise the principal or immediate supervisor of the receipt of the complaint. The supervisor shall make an initial determination as to the seriousness of the complaint and whether the matter should be referred to the superintendent. A person may file a complaint at any level of the school district; i.e., principal, superintendent or school board. However, persons are encouraged to file a complaint at the building level when appropriate.

B.  Depending upon the nature and seriousness of the complaint, the supervisor or other administrator receiving the complaint shall determine the nature and scope of the investigation or followup procedures. If the complaint involves serious allegations, the matter shall promptly be referred to the superintendent who shall determine whether an internal or external investigation should be conducted. In either case, the superintendent shall determine the nature and scope of the investigation and designate the person responsible for the investigation or followup relating to the complaint. The designated investigator shall ascertain details concerning the complaint and respond promptly to the appropriate administrator concerning the status or outcome of the matter.

C.  The appropriate administrator shall respond in writing to the complaining party concerning the outcome of the investigation or followup, including any 103-2 appropriate action or corrective measure that was taken. The superintendent shall be copied on the correspondence and consulted in advance of the written response when appropriate. The response to the complaining party shall be consistent with the rights of others pursuant to the applicable provisions of Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act) or other law.

D.  Students, parents, employees or other persons, may report concerns or complaints regarding the Superintendent to the School Board Chair.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 206 (Public Participation in School Board Meetings/Complaints about Persons at School Board Meetings and Data Privacy Considerations)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 403 (Discipline, Suspension, and Dismissal of School District Employees)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 413 (Harassment and Violence)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 514 (Bullying Prohibition)
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 13, School Law Bulletin “I” (School Records – Privacy – Access to Data)

Policy103.pdf

View Policy 103 Complaint Form

Adopted: January 9, 2012
Revised: October 1, 2024

104 SCHOOL DISTRICT VISION/MISSION STATEMENT AND OPERATIONAL GOALS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to establish a clear statement of the purpose for which the school district exists.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The school board believes that a mission statement should be adopted. The mission statement should be based on the beliefs and values of the community, should direct any change effort and should be the basis on which decisions are made. The school board, on behalf of and with extensive participation by the community, should develop a consensus
among its members regarding the nature of the enterprise the school board governs, the purposes it serves, the constituencies it should consider, including student representation, and the results it intends to produce.

III. VISION/MISSION STATEMENT AND SCHOOL BOARD OPERATIONAL GOALS

Vision

We are committed to the success of all learners. We will engage, inspire, challenge and support each learner through innovation and collaboration.

Mission

The mission of the St. Anthony-New Brighton School District is to educate, prepare and inspire a community of life-long learners in our small, caring environment.

Values

Academics, Accountable, Challenging, Character, Community, Creative, Diverse, Engaged, Equity, Global, Inclusive, Innovative, Integrity, Relevant, Respect, Responsible, Supportive, and Welcoming.

Strategic Objectives

St. Anthony-New Brighton School District is committed to the success of all learners through equitable experiences and individualized instruction.

St. Anthony-New Brighton School District is committed to the success of all learners by addressing long-term financial needs.

St. Anthony-New Brighton School District is committed to the success of all learners by engaging and leveraging the strength of our community.
 

IV. REVIEW

The school board will review the school district’s mission and vision every two years, especially when members of the board change. The school board will conduct a comprehensive review of the mission, including the beliefs and values of the community, every five to seven years.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 120B.11 (School District Process for Reviewing Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Achievement Goals; Striving for Comprehensive Achievement and Civic Readiness.)
Minn. Rule Parts 3501.0010-3501.0180 Minn. Rule Parts 3501.0200-3501.0270

February 5, 2019
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 201
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2009, 2019

201 LEGAL STATUS OF THE SCHOOL BOARD

I. PURPOSE

The care, management, and control of the schools is vested by statutory and constitutional authority in the school board. The school board shall carry out the mission of the school district with diligence, prudence, and dedication to the ideals of providing the finest public education. The purpose of this policy is to define the authority, duties, and powers of the school board in carrying out its mission.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A.  The school board is the governing body of the school district. As such, the school board has responsibility for the care, management, and control over public schools in the school district.

B.  Generally, elected members of the school board have binding authority only when acting as a school board legally in session, except where specific authority is provided to school board members or officers individually. Generally, the school board is not bound by an action or statement on the part of an individual school board member unless the action is specifically directed or authorized by the school board.

III. DEFINITION

“School board” means the governing body of the school district.

IV. ORGANIZATION AND MEMBERSHIP

A. The membership of the school board consists of six elected directors, or seven if the school board has submitted the question to the electors and a majority have approved a seven-member school board. The term of office is four years.

B. There may be other ex officio members of the school board as provided by law. The superintendent is an ex officio member. 201-2

C. A majority of voting members constitutes a quorum. The act of the majority of a quorum is the act of the school board.

V. POWERS AND DUTIES

A. The school board has powers and duties specified by statute. The school board’s authority includes implied powers in addition to specific powers granted by the legislature.

B. The school board exercises administrative functions. It also has certain powers of a legislative character and other powers of a quasi-judicial character.

C. The school board shall superintend and manage the schools of the school district; adopt rules for their organization, government, and instruction; and courses of study; and make and authorize contracts.

D. The school board shall have the general charge of the business of the school district, its facilities and property, and of the interest of the schools.

E. The school board, among other duties, shall perform the following in accordance with applicable law:

1. provide by levy of tax, necessary funds for the conduct of schools, the payment of indebtedness, and all proper expenses of the school district;

2. conduct the business of the schools and pay indebtedness and proper expenses;

3. employ and contract with necessary qualified teachers and discharge the same for cause;

4. provide services to promote the health of its pupils;

5. provide school buildings and erect needed buildings;

6. purchase, sell, and exchange school district property and equipment as deemed necessary by the school board for school purposes;

7. provide for payment of claims against the school district, and prosecute and defend actions by or against the school district, in all proper cases;

8. employ and discharge necessary employees and contract for other services;

9. provide for transportation of pupils to and from school, as governed by statute; and

10. procure insurance against liability of the school district, its officers, and 201-3 employees.

F. The school board, at its discretion, may perform the following:

1. provide library facilities, public evening schools, adult and continuing education programs, summer school programs, and intersession classes of flexible school year programs;

2. furnish school lunches for pupils and teachers on such terms as the school board determines;

3. enter into agreements with one or more other independent school districts to provide for agreed upon educational services;

4. lease rooms or buildings for school purposes;

5. authorize the use of school facilities for community purposes that will not interfere with their use for school purposes;

6. authorize cocurricular and extracurricular activities;

7. receive, for the benefit of the school district, bequests, donations, or gifts for any proper purpose; and

8. perform other acts as the school board shall deem to be reasonably necessary or required for the governance of the schools.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123A.22 (Cooperative Centers)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.02 (General Powers)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.09 (School Board Powers)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.14 (School District Officers)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.23 (Liability Insurance)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.49 (Cocurricular and Extracurricular Activities; Insurance)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.51 (Schoolhouses and Sites; Access for Noncurricular Purposes)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.85 (Definition) Jensen v. Indep. Consol. Sch. Dist. No. 85, 160
Minn. 233, 199 N.W. 911 (1924)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 101 (Legal Status of the School District)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 202 (School Board Officers)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203 (Operation of the School Board - Governing Rules)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 205 (Open Meetings and Closed Meetings)
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 1, School District Governance, Powers and Duties

Policy201.pdf

March 5, 2019 MSBA/MASA
Model Policy 202
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2011, 2019

202 SCHOOL BOARD OFFICERS

I. PURPOSE

School board officers are charged with the duty of carrying out the responsibilities entrusted to them for the care, management, and control of the public schools of the school district. The purpose of this policy is to delineate those responsibilities.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The school board shall meet annually and organize by selecting a chair, a clerk, a treasurer, and such other officers as determined by the school board. At its option, the school board may elect a vice-chair to serve in the temporary absence of the chair.

B. The school board shall appoint a superintendent who shall be an ex officio, nonvoting member of the school board.

III. ORGANIZATION

The school board shall meet annually on the first Monday in January, or as soon thereafter as practicable, and organize by selecting a chair, a clerk, a treasurer, and such other officers as determined by the school board. These officers shall hold office for one year and until their successors are elected and qualify.

A. The persons who perform the duties of clerk and treasurer need not be members of the school board.

B. The school board by resolution may combine the duties of the offices of clerk and treasurer in a single person in the office of business affairs.

IV. OFFICER’S RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Chair

1. The chair when present shall preside at all meetings of the school board, countersign all orders upon the treasurer for claims allowed by the school board, represent the school district in all actions, and perform all duties a chair usually performs.

2. In case of absence, inability, or refusal of the clerk to draw orders for the payment of money authorized by a vote of the majority of the school board to be paid, the chair may draw the orders, or the office of the clerk may be declared vacant by the chair and treasurer and filled by appointment.

B. Treasurer

1. The treasurer shall deposit the funds of the school district in the official depository.

2. The treasurer shall make all reports which may be called for by the school board and perform all duties a treasurer usually performs.

3. In the event there are insufficient funds on hand to pay valid orders presented to the treasurer, the treasurer shall receive, endorse, and process the orders in accordance with Minn. Stat. § 123B.12.

C. Clerk

1. The clerk shall keep a record of all meetings in the books provided.

2. Within three days after an election, the clerk shall notify all persons elected of their election.

3. On or before September 15 of each year, the clerk shall:

a. file with the school board a report of the revenues, expenditures, and balances in each fund for the preceding fiscal year.

b. make and transmit to the commissioner certified reports, showing:

(1) revenues and expenditures in detail, and such other financial information required by law, rule, or as may be called for by the commissioner;

(2) length of school term and enrollment and attendance by grades; and

(3) other items of information as called for by the commissioner.

4. The clerk shall enter into the clerk’s record book copies of all reports and of the teachers’ term reports, and of the proceedings of any meeting, and keep an itemized account of all expenses of the school district.

5. The clerk shall furnish to the county auditor, on or before September 30 of each year, an attested copy of the clerk’s record, showing the amount of proposed property tax voted by the school district or the school board for school purposes.

6. The clerk shall draw and sign all orders upon the treasurer for the payment of money for bills allowed by the school board for salaries of officers and for teachers’ wages and all claims, to be countersigned by the chair.

7. The clerk shall perform such duties as required by the Minnesota Election Law or other applicable laws relating to the conduct of elections.

8. The clerk shall perform the duties of the chair in the event of the chair’s and the vice-chair’s temporary absences.

D. Vice-Chair [Optional]

The vice-chair shall perform the duties of the chair in the event of the chair’s temporary absence.

E. Superintendent

1. The superintendent shall be an ex officio, nonvoting member of the school board.

2. The superintendent shall perform the following:

a. visit and supervise the schools in the school district, report and make recommendations about their condition when advisable or on request by the school board;

b. recommend to the school board employment and dismissal of teachers;

c. annually evaluate each school principal assigned responsibility for supervising a school building within the district;

d. superintend school grading practices and examinations for promotions;

e. make reports required by the commissioner; and

f. perform other duties prescribed by the school board.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123B.12 (Finance) Minn. Stat. § 123B.14 (Officers)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.143 (Superintendent)
Minn. Stat. § 126C.17 (Referendum Revenue)
Minn. Stat. Ch. 205A (School District Elections)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 101 (Legal Status of the School District)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 201 (Legal Status of the School Board)
SBA/MASA Model Policy 203 (Operation of the School Board – Governing Rules)
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 1, School District Governance, Powers and Duties

Policy202.pdf

Adopted January 7, 2020

Policy 202.1

ISD 282 BOARD COMPENSATION

I. Compensation Philosophy

The School Board of ISD 282 recognizes that board member compensation is a sensitive public policy matter. The Board believes that board members should be reasonably compensated for the time, efforts, and out-of-pocket costs incurred in serving the community as an elected official. The Board aspires to pay its members a wage that is:

• Commensurate with the responsibilities and time commitment of board members
• In alignment with compensation paid to board members at districts with similar characteristics to St. Anthony-New Brighton Schools
• Is reasonable and defensible to taxpayers and the community by demonstrating prudent use of public funds.

a. Effective January 1, 2020 board members’ annual compensation, shall be based on the average of the compensation paid to board members of the districts that comprise membership in Northeast Metro 916 Intermediate School District.

b. The Chair, Vice Chair, and Treasurer will receive an added stipend to reflect additional duties. The stipend will be, approximately, an additional 20% for the Chair, and an additional 10% for the Vice Chair and Treasurer.

c. School board compensation shall be paid in March, June, September and December, and shall have all applicable federal and state deductions withheld.

III. Expense Reimbursements

School board members are eligible for reimbursement of expenses incurred that are directly related to fulfilling a board member’s official responsibilities. Reimbursed expenses normally include:

a. Mileage to and from school board member’s home to seminars, committee meetings, association meetings (AMSD, MSBA, etc.), legislative hearings, and other meetings that are directly related to board service. Board members will not be reimbursed for mileage to and from regularly scheduled school board meetings, or mileage to attend school functions and events such as athletic competitions, plays, concerts, etc.

b. Parking and other required transportation costs will also be reimbursed, based on actual costs incurred.

c. Meals in conjunction with official school board activities and duties will be reimbursed, based on actual costs not to exceed limits set by the Board at its annual organizational meeting.

IV. Oversight

a. This policy will be reviewed annually, prior to the Board’s January Organizational meeting.

b. Annually, at its organizational meeting the Board shall review and approve the amount of annual compensation for board members as determined by this policy.

c. Throughout the year, requests for expense reimbursements must be submitted to the district finance office for review as to conformity with district policy and procedures. Following that review, all board expense reimbursement requests must be approved by the board treasurer. Requests for expense reimbursement submitted by the treasurer will be approved by the board chair.

View Policy 202.1

February 5, 2019 MSBA/MASA
Model Policy 203
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2009, 2019

203 OPERATION OF THE SCHOOL BOARD – GOVERNING RULES

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide governing rules for the conduct of meetings of the school board.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

An orderly school board meeting allows school board members to participate in discussion and decision of school district issues. Rules of order allow school board members the opportunity to review school-related topics, discuss school business items, and bring matters to conclusion in a timely and consistent manner.

III. RULES OF ORDER

Rules of order for school board meetings shall be as follows:

A. Minnesota statutes where specified;

B. Specific rules of order as provided by the school board consistent with Minnesota statutes; and

C. Robert’s Rules of Order where not inconsistent with A. and B., above.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 13D (Open Meeting Law)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.09, Subds. 6, 7, and 10 (School Board Matters)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.14 (Officers) Cross References:

View Policy 203

March 5, 2019 MSBA/MASA
Model Policy 203.1
Orig. 1997 Rev. 1999, 2019

SCHOOL BOARD PROCEDURES; RULES OF ORDER

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide specific rules of order to conduct meetings of the school board.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

To ensure that school board meetings are conducted in an orderly fashion, the school board will follow rules of order which will allow the school board:

A. To establish guidelines by which the business of the school board can be conducted in a regular and internally consistent manner;

B. To organize the meetings so all necessary matters can be brought to the school board and decisions of the school board can be made in an orderly and reasonable manner;

C. To insure that members of the school board have the necessary information to make decisions on substantive issues and to insure adequate discussion of decisions to be made; and

D. To insure that meetings and actions of the school board are conducted so as to be informative to the staff and the public, and to produce a clear record of actions taken and decisions made.

III. RULES OF ORDER

A. School board members need not rise to gain the recognition of the chair.

B. A motion will be adopted or carried if it receives the affirmative votes of a majority of those actually voting on the matter. Abstentions are considered to be acquiescence to the vote of the majority. It should be noted that some motions by statute or Robert’s Rules of Order require larger numbers of affirmative votes. 

C. All motions that require a second shall receive a second prior to opening the issue for discussion of the school board. If a motion that requires a second does not receive a second, the chair may declare that the motion fails for lack of a second or may provide the second. The names of the members making and seconding a motion shall be recorded in the minutes.

D. The chair shall decide the order in which school board members will be recognized to address an issue. An attempt should be made to alternate between pro and con positions if appropriate to the discussion. A member shall only speak to an issue after the member is recognized by the chair.

E. The chair shall rule on all questions relating to motions and points of order brought before the school board.

F. A ruling by the chair is subject to appeal to the full school board pursuant to Robert’s Rules of Order.

G. Members of the public who want to bring an issue to the attention of the school board should attend the listening session held before each regular board meeting.

H. The chair has the authority to declare a recess at any time for the purpose of restoring decorum to the meeting or for any other necessary purpose.

I. The chair shall repeat a motion or the substance of a motion prior to the vote. The chair shall call for an affirmative and a negative vote on all motions.

J. The order in which names will be called for roll call votes will be determined by the school board clerk. Roll Call votes shall be alphabetical.

K. The chair has the same right and responsibility as each school board member to vote on all issues.

L. The chair shall announce the result of each vote. The vote of each member, including abstentions, shall be recorded in the minutes. If the vote is unanimous, it may be reflected as unanimous in the minutes if the minutes also reflect the members present.

M. A majority of the voting members of the school board constitute a quorum. The absence of a quorum may be raised by the chair or any member. Generally any action taken in the absence of a quorum is null and void. The only legal actions the school board may take in the absence of a quorum are to fix the time at which to adjourn, to adjourn, to recess or to take measures to obtain a quorum.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, Subd. 4 (Open Meeting Law) 
Minn. Stat. § 122A.40 (Employment Contracts, Termination)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.09, Subds. 6 and 7 (School Board Powers)
Minn. Stat. § 126C.53 (Enabling Resolution; Form of Certificates of Indebtedness)
Minn. Stat. § 331A.01, Subd. 6 (Newspapers; Definitions)
Minn. Stat. § 331A.04, Subd. 6 (Newspapers; Exception to Designation Priority)
Minn. Stat. § 471.88 (Exceptions)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203 (Operation of the School Board – Governing Rules)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 204 (School Board Meeting Minutes)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 206 (Public Participation in School Board Meetings/Complaints about Persons at School Board Meetings and Data Privacy Considerations)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 207 (Public Hearings)

Policy203.1.pdf

February 5, 2019 MSBA/MASA
Model Policy 203.2
Orig. 1997 Rev. 200, 2019

ORDER OF THE REGULAR SCHOOL BOARD MEETING

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to ensure consistency in the order of business at regular school board meetings.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

It is the policy of the school board to consider matters that come before it in a consistent and orderly manner.

III. ORDER

A. The school board shall conduct an orderly school board meeting. The school board will, at all regular school board meetings, follow an agenda order similar to:

1. Call to order.

2. Approval of agenda.

3. School Board Meeting Minutes

4. Recognition

5. Communication Break

6. Consent Agenda

7. Action Agenda

8. Discussion Agenda

9. Superintendent’s Report

10. Member Reports & Updates 

11. Agenda Question: What have we done for learners?

12. Adjournment.

B. Items in this order may be considered as part of a consent agenda.

1. Personnel Changes

a. Leaves

b. Request for reduction of FTE

c. Retirements

d. Resignations

e. Terminations f. Hires

2. Payment of Bills

3. Acceptance of Donations

C. The school board may depart from the order of business with the consent of the majority of members present.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123B.09, Subd. 7 (School Board Powers)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203 (Operation of the School Board – Governing Rules)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203.5 (School Board Meeting Agenda)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203.6 (Consent Agendas)

Policy203.2.pdf

April 2, 2019
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203.5
Orig. 1997 Rev. 2012, 2019

203.5 SCHOOL BOARD MEETING AGENDA

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide procedures for the preparation of the school board meeting agenda to ensure that the school board can accomplish its business as efficiently and expeditiously as possible.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The policy of the school board is that school board meetings shall be conducted in a manner to allow the school board to accomplish its business while allowing reasoned debate and discussion of each matter to be acted upon.

III. PROCEDURES

A. While all school board members may provide input, it shall be the responsibility of the school board chair and superintendent to develop, prepare, and arrange the order of items for the tentative school board meeting agenda for each school board meeting.

B. Persons wishing to place an item on the agenda must make a request to the superintendent’s office in a timely manner. The person making the request must state the person’s name, address, purpose of the item, and pertinent background information. The chair and superintendent shall decide whether to place the matter on the tentative agenda.

C. The tentative agenda and supporting documents shall be sent to the school board members four (4) days prior to the scheduled school board meeting.

D. The agenda will be formally approved at the beginning of each meeting.

E. Items may only be added to the agenda by a motion adopted at the meeting. If an added item is acted upon, the minutes of the school board meeting shall include a description of the matter. 

F. At least one copy of any printed materials, including electronic communications, relating to the agenda items of the meeting prepared or distributed by or at the direction of the school board or its employees and:

(i) distributed at the meeting to all members of the governing body;

(ii) distributed before the meeting to all members; or

(iii) available in the meeting room to all members shall be available in the meeting room for inspection by the public while the school board considers their subject matter. This does not apply to materials classified by law as other than public or to materials relating to the agenda items of a closed meeting.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, Subd. 6 (Open Meeting Law)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.09, Subd. 7 (School Board Powers)
Dept. of Admin. Advisory Op. No. 10-013 (April 29, 2010)
Dept. of Admin. Advisory Op. No. 08-015 (July 9, 2008)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203 (Operation of the School Board – Governing Rules)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203.2 (Order of the Regular School Board Meeting)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203.6 (Consent Agendas)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 204 (School Board Meeting Minutes)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 207 (Public Hearings)

Policy203.5.pdf

February 5, 2019
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203.6
Orig. 1997Rev. 1999, 2019

203.6 CONSENT AGENDAS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to allow the use of a consent agenda.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

In order for a more efficient administration of school board meetings, the school board may elect to use a consent agenda for the passage of noncontroversial items or items of a similar nature.

III. CONSENT AGENDAS

A. The superintendent, in consultation with the school board chair, may place items on the consent agenda. By using a consent agenda, the school board has consented to the consideration of certain items as a group under one motion. Should a consent agenda be used, an appropriate amount of discussion time will be allowed to review any item upon request.

B. Consent items are those which usually do not require discussion or explanation prior to school board action, are noncontroversial and/or similar in content, or are those items which have already been discussed and/or explained and do not require further discussion or explanation. Such agenda items might include ministerial tasks such as, but not limited to, the approval of the agenda, approval of previous minutes, approval of bills, approval of reports, etc. These items might also include similar groups of decisions such as, but not limited to, approval of staff contracts, approval of maintenance details for the school district buildings and grounds or approval of various schedules.

C. Items shall be removed from the consent agenda by a timely request by an individual school board member for independent consideration. A request is timely if made prior to the vote on the consent agenda. The request does not require a second or a vote by the school board. An item removed from the consent agenda will then be discussed and acted on separately immediately following the consideration of the consent agenda.

D. Consent agenda items are approved en masse by one vote of the school board. The consent agenda items shall be separately recorded in the minutes.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123B.09, Subd. 7 (School Board Powers)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203.2 (Order of the Regular School Board Meeting)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 203.5 (School Board Meeting Agenda)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 204 (School Board Meeting Minutes)

Policy203.6.pdf

March 5, 2019
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 204
rig. 1995 Rev. 2008, 2019

204 SCHOOL BOARD MEETING MINUTES

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to establish procedures relating to the maintenance of records of the school board and the publication of its official proceedings.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

It is the policy of the school district to maintain its records so that they will be available for inspection by members of the general public and to provide for the publication of its official proceedings in compliance with law.

III. MAINTENANCE OF MINUTES AND RECORDS

A. The clerk shall keep and maintain permanent records of the school board, including records of the minutes of school board meetings and other required records of the school board. All votes taken at meetings required to be open to the public pursuant to the Minnesota Open Meeting Law shall be recorded in a journal kept for that purpose. Public records maintained by the school district shall be available for inspection by members of the public during the regular business hours of the school district. Minutes of meetings shall be available for inspection at the administrative offices of the school district after they have been approved by the board. Minutes of a school board meeting shall be approved or modified by the school board at a subsequent meeting, which action shall be reflected in the official proceedings of that subsequent meeting.

B. Recordings of Closed Meetings

1. All closed meetings, except those closed as permitted by the attorney-client privilege, must be electronically recorded at the expense of the school district. Recordings of closed meetings shall be made separately from the recordings of an open meeting, to the extent such meetings are recorded. If a meeting is closed to discuss more than one (1) matter, each matter shall be separately recorded.

2. Recordings of closed meetings shall be preserved by the school district for the following time periods:

a. Meetings closed to discuss labor negotiations strategy shall be preserved for two (2) years after the contract is signed.

b. Meetings closed to discuss security matters shall be preserved for at least four (4) years.

c. Meetings closed to discuss the purchase or sale of property shall be preserved for at least eight (8) years after the date of the meeting.

d. All other closed meetings shall be preserved by the school district for at least three (3) years after the date of the meeting.

e. Following the expiration of the above time periods, recordings of closed meetings shall be maintained as set forth in the school district’s Records Retention Schedule.

3. Recordings of closed meetings shall be classified by the school district as protected non-public data that is not accessible by the public or any subject of the data, with the following exceptions:

a. Recordings of labor negotiations strategy meetings shall be classified as public data and made available to the public after all labor contracts are signed by the school district for the current budget period.

b. Recordings of meetings related to the purchase or sale of property shall be classified as public data and made available to the public after all real or personal property discussed at the meeting has been purchased or sold or the school district has abandoned the purchase or sale.

c. Recordings of any other closed meetings shall be classified and/or released as required by court order.

4. Recordings of closed meetings shall be maintained separately from recordings of open meetings, to the extent recordings of open meetings are maintained by the school district, with the exception of recordings that have been classified as public data as set forth in Section III.B.3. above. Recordings of closed meetings classified as non-public data also shall be maintained in a secure location, separate from recordings classified as public data. 204-3

5. Recordings of closed meetings shall be maintained in a manner to easily identify the data classification of the recording. The recordings shall be identified with at least the following information:

a. The date of the closed meeting;

b. The basis upon which the meeting was closed (i.e.: labor negotiations strategy, purchase or sale of real property, educational data, etc.); and

c. The classification of the data.

6. Recordings of closed meetings related to labor negotiations strategy and the purchase or sale of property shall be maintained and monitored in a manner that reclassifies the recording as public upon the occurrence of an event reclassifying that data as set forth in Section III.B.3. above.

IV. PUBLICATION OF OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS

A. The school board shall cause its official proceedings to be published once in the official newspaper of the school district within thirty (30) days of the meeting at which the proceedings occurred; however, if the school board conducts regular meetings not more than once every thirty (30) days, the school board need not publish the minutes until ten (10) days after they have been approved by the school board.

B. The proceedings to be published shall be sufficiently full to fairly set forth the proceedings. They must include the substance of all official actions taken by the school board at any regular or special meeting, and at minimum must include the subject matter of a motion, the persons making and seconding the motion, a listing of how each member present voted on the motion, the character of resolutions offered including a brief description of their subject matter and whether adopted or defeated. The minutes and permanent records of the school board may include more detail than is required to be published with the official proceedings. If the proceedings have not yet been approved by the school board, the proceedings to be published may reflect that fact.

C. The proceedings to be published may be a summary of the essential elements of the proceedings, and/or of resolutions and other official actions of the school board. Such a summary shall be written in a clear and coherent manner and shall, to the extent possible, avoid the use of technical or legal terms not generally familiar to the public. When a summary is published, the publication shall clearly indicate that the published material is only a summary and that the full text is available for public inspection at the administrative offices of the school district and that a copy of the proceedings, other than attachments to the minutes, is available without cost at the offices of the school district or by means of standard or electronic mail.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 13D.01, Subds. 4-6 (Open Meeting Law)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.09, Subd. 10 (Publishing Proceedings)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.14, Subd. 7 (Record of Meetings)
Minn. Stat. § 331A.01 (Definition)
Minn. Stat. § 331A.05, Subd. 8 (Notice Regarding Published Summaries)
Minn. Stat. § 331A.08, Subd. 3 (Publication of Proceedings)
Op. Atty. Gen. 161-a-20, December 17, 1970
Ketterer v. Independent School District No. 1, 248
Minn. 212, 79 N.W.2d 428 (1956)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 205 (Open Meetings and Closed Meetings)
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 1, School District Governance, Powers and Duties

Policy204.pdf

March 5, 2019
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 205
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2017, 2019

205 OPEN MEETINGS AND CLOSED MEETINGS

I. PURPOSE

A. The school board embraces the philosophy of openness in the conduct of its business, in the belief that openness produces better programs, more efficiency in administration of programs, and an organization more responsive to public interest and less susceptible to private interest. The school board shall conduct its business under a presumption of openness. At the same time, the school board recognizes and respects the privacy rights of individuals as provided by law. The school board also recognizes that there are certain exceptions to the Minnesota Open Meeting Law as recognized in statute where it has been determined that, in limited circumstances, the public interest is best served by closing a meeting of the school board.

B. The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines to assure the rights of the public to be present at school board meetings, while also protecting the individual’s rights to privacy under law, and to close meetings when the public interest so requires as recognized by law.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. Except as otherwise expressly provided by statute, all meetings of the school board, including executive sessions, shall be open to the public.

B. Meetings shall be closed only when expressly authorized by law.

III. DEFINITION

“Meeting” means a gathering of at least a quorum or more members of the school board, or quorum of a committee or subcommittee of school board members, at which members discuss, decide, or receive information as a group on issues relating to the official business of the school board. The term does not include a chance or social gathering or the use of social media by members of a public body so long as the social media use is limited to exchanges with all members of the general public. For purposes of the Open Meeting Law, social media does not include e-mail. 

IV. PROCEDURES

A. Meetings

1. Regular Meetings

A schedule of the regular meetings of the school board shall be kept on file at its primary offices. If the school board decides to hold a regular meeting at a time or place different from the time or place stated in its schedule, it shall give the same notice of the meeting as for a special meeting.

2. Special Meetings

a. For a special meeting, the school board shall post written notice of the date, time, place, and purpose of the meeting on the principal bulletin board of the school district or on the door of the school board’s usual meeting room if there is no principal bulletin board. The school board’s actions at the special meeting are limited to those topics included in the notice.

b. The notice shall also be mailed or otherwise delivered to each person who has filed a written request for notice of special meetings.

c. This notice shall be posted and mailed or delivered at least three days before the date of the meeting. As an alternative to mailing or otherwise delivering notice to persons who have filed a written request, the school board may publish the notice once, at least three days before the meeting, in the official newspaper of the school district or, if none, in a qualified newspaper of general circulation within the area of the school district.

d. A person filing a request for notice of special meetings may limit the request to particular subjects, in which case the school board is required to send notice to that person only concerning those particular subjects.

e. The school board will establish an expiration date on requests for notice of special meetings and require refiling once each year. Not more than 60 days before the expiration date of request for notice, the school board shall send notice of the refiling requirement to each person who filed during the preceding year.

3. Emergency Meetings

a. An emergency meeting is a special meeting called because of circumstances that, in the judgment of the school board, require immediate consideration.

b. If matters not directly related to the emergency are discussed or acted upon, the minutes of the meeting shall include a specific description of those matters.

c. The school board shall make good faith efforts to provide notice of the emergency meeting to each news medium that has filed a written request for notice if the request includes the news medium’s telephone number.

d. Notice of the emergency meeting shall be given by telephone or any other method used to notify the members of the school board.

e. Notice shall be provided to each news medium which has filed a written request for notice as soon as reasonably practicable after notice has been given to the school board members.

f. Notice shall include the subject of the meeting.

g. Posted or published notice of an emergency meeting shall not be required.

h. The notice requirements for an emergency meeting as set forth in this policy shall supersede any other statutory notice requirement for a special meeting that is an emergency meeting.

4. Recessed or Continued Meetings

If a meeting is a recessed or continued session of a previous meeting, and the time and place of the meeting was established during the previous meeting and recorded in the minutes of that meeting, then no further published or mailed notice is necessary.

5. Closed Meetings

The notice requirements of the Minnesota Open Meeting Law apply to closed meetings.

6. Actual Notice

If a person receives actual notice of a meeting of the school board at least 24 hours before the meeting, all notice requirements are satisfied with respect to that person, regardless of the method of receipt of notice.

7. Health Pandemic or Declared Emergency

In the event of a health pandemic or an emergency declared under Minn. Stat. Ch. 12, a meeting may be conducted by telephone or other electronic means in compliance with Minn. Stat. § 13D.021.

8. Meetings Conducted by Interactive Technology

A meeting may be conducted by interactive technology, Skype, or other similar electronic means in compliance with Minn. Stat. § 13D.02.

B. Votes

The votes of school board members shall be recorded in a journal kept for that purpose, and the journal shall be available to the public during all normal business hours at the administrative offices of the school district.

C. Written Materials

1. In any open meeting, a copy of any printed materials, including electronic communications, relating to the agenda items prepared or distributed by the school board or its employees and distributed to or available to all school board members shall be available in the meeting room for inspection by the public while the school board considers their subject matter.

2. This provision does not apply to materials not classified by law as public, or to materials relating to the agenda items of a closed meeting.

D. Data

1. Meetings may not be closed merely because the data to be discussed are not public data.

2. Data that are not public data may be discussed at an open meeting if the disclosure relates to a matter within the scope of the school board’s authority and is reasonably necessary to conduct the business or agenda item before the school board.

3. Data discussed at an open meeting retain the data’s original classification; however, a record of the meeting, regardless of form, shall be public.

E. Closed Meetings

1. Labor Negotiations Strategy

a. The school board may, by a majority vote in a public meeting, decide to hold a closed meeting to consider strategy for labor 205-5 negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of labor negotiation proposals.

b. The time and place of the closed meeting shall be announced at the public meeting. A written roll of school board members and all other persons present at the closed meeting shall be made available to the public after the closed meeting. The proceedings shall be tape recorded, and the tape recording shall be preserved for two years after the contract discussed at the meeting is signed. The recording shall be made available to the public after all labor contracts are signed by the school board for the current budget period.

2. Sessions Closed by Bureau of Mediation Services

All negotiations, mediation sessions, and hearings between the school board and its employees or their respective representatives are public meetings. These meetings may be closed only by the Commissioner of the Bureau of Mediation Services (BMS). The use of recording devices, stenographic records, or other recording methods is prohibited in mediation meetings closed by the BMS.

3. Preliminary Consideration of Charges

The school board shall close one or more meetings for preliminary consideration of allegations or charges against an individual subject to its authority. If the school board members conclude that discipline of any nature may be warranted as a result of those specific charges or allegations, further meetings or hearings relating to those specific charges or allegations held after that conclusion is reached must be open. A meeting must also be open at the request of the individual who is the subject of the meeting. A closed meeting must be electronically recorded at the expense of the school district, and the recording must be preserved for at least three years after the date of the meeting. The recording is not available to the public.

4. Performance Evaluations

The school board may close a meeting to evaluate the performance of an individual who is subject to its authority. The school board shall identify the individual to be evaluated prior to closing a meeting. At its next open meeting, the school board shall summarize its conclusions regarding the evaluation. A meeting must be open at the request of the individual who is the subject of the meeting. A closed meeting must be electronically recorded at the expense of the school district, and the recording must be preserved for at least three years after the date of the meeting. The recording is not available to the public. 

5. Attorney-Client Meeting

A meeting may be closed if permitted by the attorney-client privilege. Attorney-client privilege applies when litigation is imminent or threatened, or when the school board needs advice above the level of general legal advice, i.e., regarding specific acts and their legal consequences. A meeting may be closed to seek legal advice concerning litigation strategy, but the mere threat that litigation might be a consequence of deciding a matter one way or another does not, by itself, justify closing the meeting. The motion to close the meeting must specifically describe the matter to be discussed at the closed meeting, subject to relevant privacy and confidentiality considerations under state and federal law. The law does not require that such a meeting be recorded.

6. Dismissal Hearing

a. A hearing on the dismissal of a licensed teacher shall be public or private at the teacher’s discretion. A hearing regarding placement of teachers on unrequested leave of absence shall be public.

b. A hearing on dismissal of a student pursuant to the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act shall be closed unless the pupil, parent or guardian requests an open hearing.

c. To the extent a teacher or student dismissal hearing is held before the school board and is closed, the closed meeting must be electronically recorded at the expense of the school district, and the recording must be preserved for at least three years after the date of the meeting. The recording is not available to the public.

7. Coaches; Opportunity to Respond

a. If the school board has declined to renew the coaching contract of a licensed or nonlicensed head varsity coach, it must notify the coach within 14 days of that decision.

b. If the coach requests the reasons for the nonrenewal, the school board must give the coach the reasons in writing within 10 days of receiving the request.

c. On the request of the coach, the school board must provide the coach with a reasonable opportunity to respond to the reasons at a school board meeting.

d. The meeting may be open or closed at the election of the coach unless the meeting is closed as required by Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, Subd. 2, to discuss educational or certain other nonpublic data. 

e. A closed meeting must be electronically recorded at the expense of the school district, and the recording must be preserved for at least three years after the date of the meeting. The recording is not available to the public.

8. Meetings to Discuss Certain Not Public Data

Any portion of a meeting must be closed if the following types of data are discussed:

a. data that would identify alleged victims or reporters of criminal sexual conduct, domestic abuse, or maltreatment of minors or vulnerable adults;

b. active investigative data collected or created by a law enforcement agency;

c. educational data, health data, medical data, welfare data, or mental health data that are not public data; or

d. an individual’s personal medical records.

e. A closed meeting must be electronically recorded at the expense of the school district, and the recording must be preserved for at least three years after the date of the meeting. The recording is not available to the public.

9. Purchase and Sale of Property

a. The school board may close a meeting:

(1) to determine the asking price for real or personal property to be sold by the school district;

(2) to review confidential or nonpublic appraisal data; and (

3) to develop or consider offers or counteroffers for the purchase or sale of real or personal property.

b. Before closing the meeting, the school board must identify on the record the particular real or personal property that is the subject of the closed meeting.

c. The closed meeting must be tape recorded at the expense of the school district. The tape must be preserved for eight years after the date of the meeting and be made available to the public after all real or personal property discussed at the meeting has been purchased or sold or the school board has abandoned the purchase or sale. The real or personal property that is the subject of the closed meeting must be specifically identified on the tape. A list of school board members and all other persons present at the closed meeting must be made available to the public after the closed meeting.

d. An agreement reached that is based on an offer considered at a closed meeting is contingent on its approval by the school board at an open meeting. The actual purchase or sale must be approved at an open meeting and the purchase price or sale price is public data.

10. Security Matters

a. The school board may close a meeting to receive security briefings and reports, to discuss issues related to security systems, to discuss emergency response procedures, and to discuss security deficiencies in or recommendations regarding public services, infrastructure, and facilities, if disclosure of the information discussed would pose a danger to public safety or compromise security procedures or responses.

b. Financial issues related to security matters must be discussed and all related financial decisions must be made at an open meeting.

c. Before closing a meeting, the school board must refer to the facilities, systems, procedures, services, or infrastructures to be considered during the closed meeting.

d. The closed meeting must be tape recorded at the expense of the school district and the recording must be preserved for at least four years.

11. Other Meetings

Other meetings shall be closed as provided by law, except as provided above. A closed meeting must be electronically recorded at the expense of the school district, and the recording must be preserved for at least three years after the date of the meeting. The recording is not available to the public.

F. Procedures for Closing a Meeting

The school board shall provide notice of a closed meeting just as for an open meeting. A school board meeting may be closed only after a majority vote at a public meeting. Before closing a meeting, the school board shall state on the record the specific authority permitting the meeting to be closed and shall describe the subject to be discussed.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act)
Minn. Stat. Ch. 13D (Open Meeting Law)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.47, Subd. 5 (Student Dismissal Hearing)
Minn. Stat. § 122A.33, Subd. 3 (Coaches; Opportunity to Respond)
Minn. Stat. § 122A.40, Subd. 14 (Teacher Discharge Hearing)
Minn. Stat. § 179A.14, Subd. 3 (Labor Negotiations)
Minn. Rules Part 5510.2810 (Bureau of Mediation Services)
Brown v. Cannon Falls Township, 723 N.W.2d 31 (Minn. App. 2006)
Brainerd Daily Dispatch v. Dehen, 693 N.W.2d 435 (Minn. App. 2005)
The Free Press v. County of Blue Earth, 677 N.W.2d 471 (Minn. App. 2004)
Prior Lake American v. Mader, 642 N.W.2d 729 (Minn. 2002)
Star Tribune v. Board of Education, Special School District No. 1, 507 N.W.2d 869 (Minn. App. 1993)
Minnesota Daily v. University of Minnesota, 432 N.W.2d 189 (Minn. App. 1988)
Moberg v. Independent School District No. 281, 336 N.W.2d 510 (Minn. 1983)
Sovereign v. Dunn, 498 N.W.2d 62 (Minn. App. 1993), rev. denied. (Minn. 1993)
Dept. of Admin. Advisory Op. No. 13-009 (March 19, 2013)
Dept. of Admin. Advisory Op. No. 12-004 (March 8, 2012)
Dept. of Admin. Advisory Op. No. 11-004 (April 18, 2011)
Dept. of Admin. Advisory Op. No. 10-020 (September 23, 2010)
Dept. of Admin. Advisory Op. No. 09-020 (September 8, 2009)
Dept. of Admin. Advisory Op. No. 08-015 (July 9, 2008)
Dept. of Admin. Advisory Op. No. 06-027 (September 28, 2006)
Dept. of Admin. Advisory Op. No. 04-004 (February 3, 2004)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 204 (School Board Meeting Minutes)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 206 (Public Participation in School Board Meetings/Complaints about Persons at School Board Meetings and Data Privacy Considerations)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 207 (Public Hearings)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 406 (Public and Private Personnel Data)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 515 (Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records)
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 13, School Law Bulletin “C” (Minnesota’s Open Meeting Law)

Policy205.pdf

May 2, 2023
SBA/MASA Model Policy 206
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2017, 2019, 2023

206 PUBLIC INPUT TO THE SCHOOL BOARD AND DATA PRIVACY CONSIDERATIONS

I. PURPOSE

A. The school board recognizes the value of input from the public regarding school district matters.  At the same time, the school board recognizes the importance of conducting orderly and efficient proceedings, with opportunity for expression of all participants’ respective views.

B. The purpose of this policy is to provide procedures to assure open and orderly public input as well as to protect the due process and privacy rights of individuals under the law.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The policy of the school board is to encourage input by persons regarding subjects related to the management of the school district.  The school board may adopt reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions on public expression in order to facilitate free input from all interested parties.

B. The school board shall, as a matter of policy, protect the legal rights to privacy and due process of employees and students.

C.  Members of the public wishing to make a complaint about individuals will be directed to Policy 103 and Policy 413.

D. Members of the public wishing to request an agenda item be discussed at a school board meeting shall refer to Policy 203.5.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Listening session” is an opportunity for the Board to listen to input from the public of subjects related to school district matters. 

B. “Personnel data” means government data on individuals maintained because the individual is or was an employee or applicant for employment.  For purposes of this policy, “employee” includes a volunteer or an independent contractor.

C. Personnel data on current and former employees that is “public” includes:

Name; employee identification number, which must not be the employee’s social security number; actual gross salary; salary range; terms and conditions of employment relationship; contract fees; actual gross pension; the value and nature of employer paid fringe benefits; the basis for and the amount of any added remuneration, including expense reimbursement, in addition to salary; bargaining unit; job title; job description; education and training background; previous work experience; date of first and last employment; the existence and status of any complaints or charges against the employee, regardless of whether the complaint or charge resulted in a disciplinary action; the final disposition of any disciplinary action as defined in Minn. Stat. § 13.43, Subd. 2(b), together with the specific reasons for the action and data documenting the basis of the action, excluding data that would identify confidential sources who are employees of the public body; the complete terms of any agreement settling any dispute arising out of the employment relationship, including a buyout agreement as defined in Minn. Stat. § 123B.143, Subd. 2, except that the agreement must include specific reasons for the agreement if it involves the payment of more than $10,000 of public money; work location; work telephone number; badge number; work-related continuing education; honors and awards received; and payroll time sheets or other comparable data that are only used to account for employee’s work time for payroll purposes, except to the extent that release of time sheet data would reveal the employee’s reasons for the use of sick or other medical leave or other not public data.

D. Personnel data on current and former applicants for employment that is “public” includes:

Veteran status; relevant test scores; rank on eligible list; job history; education and training; and work availability.  Names of applicants shall be private data except when certified as eligible for appointment to a vacancy or when applicants are considered by the appointing authority to be finalists for a position in public employment.  For purposes of this subdivision, “finalist” means an individual who is selected to be interviewed by the appointing authority prior to selection.

E. “Educational data” means data maintained by the school district which relates to a student.

F. “Student” means an individual currently or formerly enrolled or registered in the school district, or applicants for enrollment, or individuals who receive shared time services.

G. Data about applicants for appointments to a public body, including a school board, collected by the school district as a result of the applicant’s application for appointment to the public body are private data on individuals, except that the following are public:  name; city of residence, except where the appointment has a residency requirement that requires the entire address to be public; education and training; employment history; volunteer work; awards and honors; prior government service; any data required to be provided or that is voluntarily provided in an application to a multimember agency pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 15.0597; and veteran status.  Once an individual has been appointed to a public body, the following additional items of data are public:  residential address; either a telephone number or electronic mail address where the appointee can be reached, or both at the request of the appointee; the first and last dates of service on the public body; the existence and status of any complaints or charges against an appointee; and, upon completion of an investigation of a complaint or charge against an appointee, the final investigative report unless access to the data would jeopardize an active investigation. Any electronic mail address or telephone number provided by a public body for use by an appointee shall be public.  An appointee may use an electronic mail address or telephone number provided by the public body as the designated electronic mail address or telephone number at which the appointee can be reached.

IV. RIGHTS TO PRIVACY

A. School district employees have a legal right to privacy related to matters which may come before the school board, including, but not limited to, the following:

1. right to a private hearing for teachers, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 122A.40, Subd. 14 (Teachers Discharge Hearing); 

2. right to privacy of personnel data as provided by Minn. Stat. § 13.43 (Personnel Data);

3. right to consideration by the school board of certain data treated as not public as provided in Minn. Stat. § 13D.05 (Not Public Data);

4. right to a private hearing for licensed or nonlicensed head varsity coaches to discuss reasons for nonrenewal of a coaching contract pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 122A.33, Subd. 3.

B. School district students have a legal right to privacy related to matters which may come before the school board, including, but not limited to, the following:

1. right to a private hearing, Minn. Stat. § 121A.47, Subd. 5 (Student Dismissal Hearing);

2. right to privacy of educational data, Minn. Stat. § 13.32 (Educational Data); 20 U.S.C. § 1232g (FERPA);

3. right to privacy of complaints as provided by child abuse reporting and discrimination laws, Minn. Stat. Ch. 260E (Reporting of Maltreatment of Minors) and Minn. Stat. Ch. 363A (Minnesota Human Rights Act).

V. THE PUBLIC’S OPPORTUNITY TO PROVIDE INPUT IN PUBLIC

1. The school board will strive to give all persons an opportunity to be heard and to have complaints considered and evaluated, within the limits of the law and this policy, Policy 103 and Policy 413, subject to reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions.  Among the rights available to the public is the right to access public data as provided by Minn. Stat. § 13.43, Subd. 2 (Public Data), under policy 406.

VI. STRUCTURE

1. Listening session or other public input session

   1. The school board will publish procedures for the orderly conduct of listening sessions and/or public input sessions online and retains the right to enforce those procedures during any public or community input session or conversation.

2. The school board will end the public input portion of any meeting immediately if an individual disregards district policies, which may include but are not limited to comments violating any of the following:

   1. Matters which may involve data privacy concerns, which may involve preliminary allegations, or which may be potentially libelous or slanderous in nature shall not be considered in public.

   2. Any discussion by any person, including school board members, that would violate the provisions of state or federal law, district policies, or the statutory rights of privacy of an individual.

   3. Personal attacks by anyone addressing the school board are unacceptable. 

3. An individual’s privilege to address the school board in public will be terminated if the individual disregards district policies, which may include but are not limited to comment violating any of the following:

   1. Matters which may involve data privacy concerns, which may involve preliminary allegations, or which may be potentially libelous or slanderous in nature shall not be considered in public.

   2. Any discussion by any person, including school board members, that would violate the provisions of state or federal law, district policies, or the statutory rights of privacy of an individual.

   3. Personal attacks by anyone addressing the school board are unacceptable. 

4. Complaints

   1. Complaints about individuals will be addressed under Policy 103 or Policy 413, as appropriate.

   2. Listening sessions will not be used to discuss complaints about specific individuals, under MN Statute, Chapter 13.

5. Agenda items

   1. Persons who wish to have an agenda item discussed at a school board meeting shall refer to Policy 203.5.

   2. Except as determined by the school board to be necessary or in an emergency, the school board will not take action at the same meeting on an item raised for the first time by the public.

6. Other meetings

   1. The school board may decide to hold certain types of public meetings where the public will not be invited to address the school board.  Possible examples are work sessions and board retreats.  The public will still be entitled to notice of these meetings and will be allowed to attend these meetings, but the public will not be allotted time during the meeting to address the board.

VII. PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF DATA PRIVACY

A. The school district is liable for damages, costs and attorneys’ fees, and, in the event of a willful violation, punitive damages for violation of state data privacy laws.  (Minn. Stat. § 13.08, Subd. 1)

B. A person who willfully violates data privacy or whose conduct constitutes the knowing unauthorized acquisition of not public data is guilty of a misdemeanor.  (Minn. Stat. § 13.09)

C. In the case of an employee, willful violation of the Minnesota data practices law, Chapter 13, and any rules adopted thereunder, including any action subject to a criminal penalty, constitutes just cause for suspension without pay or dismissal.  (Minn. Stat. § 13.09)

Legal References: Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act)

Minn. Stat. § 13.43 (Personnel Data)

Minn. Stat. § 13.601, Subd. 3 (Applicants for Appointment)

Minn. Stat. § 13D.05 (Meetings Having Data Classified as Public) 

Minn. Stat. § 121A.47, Subd. 5 (Exclusion and Expulsion Procedures; Closed or Open Meeting)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.33, Subd. 3 (License and Degree Exemption for Head Coach; Notice of Nonrenewal; Opportunity to Respond) 

Minn. Stat. § 122A.40, Subd. 14 (Employment; Contracts; Termination; Hearing Procedures

Minn. Stat. § 122A.44 (Contracting with Teachers; Substitute Teachers)

Minn. Stat. § 123B.02, Subd. 14 (General Powers of Independent School Districts; Employees; Contracts for Services)

Minn. Stat. § 123B.143, Subd. 2 (Superintendents; Disclose Past Buyouts or Contract is Void)

Minn. Stat. Ch. 363A (Minnesota Human Rights Act)

Minn. Stat. Ch. 260E (Reporting of Maltreatment of Minors)

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

Minn. Op. Atty. Gen. 852 (July 14, 2006)

Cross References: MSBA/MASA Model Policy 205 (Open Meetings and Closed Meetings)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 207 (Public Hearings)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 406 (Public and Private Personnel Data)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 515 (Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records)

MSBA School Law Bulletin “C” (Minnesota’s Open Meeting Law)

MSBA School Law Bulletin “I” (School Records – Privacy – Access to Data)

Policy206.pdf

April 2, 2019
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 207
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2009, 2019

207 PUBLIC HEARINGS

I. PURPOSE

The school board recognizes the importance of obtaining public input on matters properly before the school board. The purpose of this policy is to establish procedures to efficiently receive public input.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

In order for the school board to efficiently receive public input on matters properly before the school board, the procedures set forth in this policy are established by the school board.

III. PROCEDURES

A. Public Hearings

Public hearings are required by law to be held concerning certain issues, including but not limited to, school closings (Minn. Stat. § 123B.51), education district establishment (Minn. Stat. § 123A.15), and agreements for secondary education (Minn. Stat. § 123A.30). Additionally, other public hearings may be held by the school board on school district matters at the discretion of the school board.

B. Notice of Public Hearings

Public notice of a public hearing required by law shall be given as provided by the enabling legislation. Public notice of other hearings shall be given in the manner required for a regular meeting if held in conjunction with a regular meeting, in the manner required for a special meeting if held in conjunction with a special meeting, or as otherwise determined by the school board.

C. Public Participation

The school board retains the right to require that those in attendance at a public hearing indicate their desire to address the school board and complete and file with the clerk of the school board an appropriate request card prior to the commencement of the hearing if the school board utilizes this procedure. In that case, any request to address the school board after the commencement of the hearing will be granted only at the discretion of the school board.

1. Format of Request:

If required by the school board, a written request of an individual or a group to address the school board shall contain the name and address of the person or group seeking to address the school board. It shall also contain the name of the group represented, if any, and a brief statement of the subject to be covered or the issue to be addressed.

2. Time Limitation:

The school board retains the discretion to limit the time for each presentation as needs dictate.

3. Groups:

The school board retains the discretion to require that any group of persons who desire to address the school board designate one representative or spokesperson. In the event that the school board requires the designation of a representative or spokesperson, no other person in the group will be recognized to address the school board, except as otherwise determined by the school board.

4. Privilege to Speak:

A school board member should direct any remarks or questions through the chair. Only those speakers recognized by the chair will be allowed to speak. Comments by others are out of order. Individuals who interfere with or interrupt speakers, the school board, or the proceedings may be directed to leave.

5. Personal Attacks:

Personal attacks by anyone addressing the school board are unacceptable. Persistence in such remarks by an individual shall terminate that person’s privilege to address the school board.

6. Limitations on Participation:

Depending upon the number of persons in attendance seeking to be heard, the school board reserves the right to impose such other limitations and restrictions as necessary in order to provide an orderly, efficient, and fair opportunity for those present to be heard.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123A.15 (Education District Establishment)
Minn. Stat. § 123A.30 (Agreements for Secondary Education)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.51 (School Closings)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 206 (Public Participation in School Board Meetings/Complaints about Persons at School Board Meetings and Data Privacy Considerations)

Policy207.pdf

April 2, 2019 MSBA/MASA
Model Policy 208
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2022

208 DEVELOPMENT, ADOPTION, AND IMPLEMENTATION OF POLICIES

[Note: The provisions of this policy are recommendations. The procedures for policy development, adoption, and implementation are not specifically provided by statute.]

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to emphasize the importance of the policy-making role of the school board and provide the means for it to be an ongoing effort.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

Policies should define the desire and intent of the school board and should be in a form which that is sufficiently explicit to guide administrative action. A set of written policies shall be maintained and modified as needed. 

III. DEVELOPMENT OF POLICY

IV. ADOPTION OF POLICY

V. IMPLEMENTATION OF POLICY

Legal References:

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 305 (Policy Implementation)

Policy 208

Original: 2009 Revised February 2, 2016

209 SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER CODE OF ETHICS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to assist the individual school board member in understanding her or his role as part of a school board and in recognizing the contribution that each member must make to develop an effective and responsible school board.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

Each school board member shall follow the code of ethics stated in this policy.

A. AS A MEMBER OF THE SCHOOL BOARD I WILL:

1. Attend school board meetings.

2. Come to the meetings prepared for discussion of the agenda items.

3. Listen to the opinions and views of others (including, but not limited to, other school board members, administration, staff, students, and community members).

4. Vote my conscience after informed discussion, unless I abstain because a conflict of interest exists.

5. Support the decision of the school board, even if my position concerning the issue was different.

6. Recognize the integrity of my predecessors and associates and appreciate their work.

7. Be primarily motivated by a desire to provide the best possible education for the students of my school district.

8. Inform myself about the proper duties and functions of a school board member. 

B. IN PERFORMING THE PROPER FUNCTIONS OF A SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER I WILL:

1. Focus on education policy as much as possible.

2. Remember my responsibility is to set policy – not to implement policy.

3. Consider myself a trustee of public education and do my best to protect, conserve, and advance its progress.

4. Recognize that my responsibility, exercised through the actions of the school board as a whole, is to see that the schools are properly run – not to run them myself.

5. Work through the superintendent – not over or around the superintendent.

6. Delegate the implementation of school board decisions to the superintendent.

C. TO MAINTAIN RELATIONS WITH OTHER MEMBERS OF THE SCHOOL BOARD I WILL:

1. Respect the right of others to have and express opinions.

2. Recognize that authority rests with the school board in legal session – not with the individual members of the school board except as authorized by law.

3. Make no disparaging remarks, in or out of school board meetings, about other members of the school board or their opinions.

4. Keep an open mind about how I will vote on any proposition until the board has met and fully discussed the issue.

5. Make decisions by voting in school board meetings after all sides of debatable questions have been presented.

6. Insist that committees be appointed to serve only in an advisory capacity to the school board.

D. IN MEETING MY RESPONSIBILITIES TO MY COMMUNITY I WILL:

1. Attempt to appraise and plan for both the present and future educational needs of the school district and community.

2. Attempt to obtain adequate financial support for the school district’s programs.

3. Insist that business transactions of the school district be ethical and open.

4. Strive to uphold my responsibilities and accountability to the taxpayers in my school district.  

E. IN WORKING WITH THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS AND STAFF I WILL:

1. Hold the superintendent responsible for the administration of the school district.

2. Give the superintendent authority commensurate with the responsibility.

3. Assure that the school district will be administered by the best professional available.

4. Consider the recommendation of the superintendent in hiring all employees.

5. Participate in school board action after considering the recommendation of the superintendent and only after the superintendent has furnished adequate information supporting the recommendation.

6. Insist the superintendent keep the school board adequately informed at all times.

7. Offer the superintendent counsel and advice.

8. Recognize the status of the superintendent as the chief executive officer and a non-voting, ex officio member of the school board.

9. Refer all complaints to the proper administrative officer or insist that they be presented in writing to the whole school board for proper referral according to the chain of command.

10. Present any personal criticisms of employees to the superintendent.

11. Provide support for the superintendent and employees of the school district so they may perform their proper functions on a professional level.

F. IN FULFILLING MY LEGAL OBLIGATIONS AS A SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER I WILL:

1. Comply with all federal, state and local laws relating to my function as a school board member.

2. Comply with all school district policies as adopted by the school board.

3. Abide by all rules and regulations as promulgated by the Minnesota Department of Education and other federal and state agencies with jurisdiction over school districts.

4. Recognize that school district business may be legally transacted only in an open meeting of the school board.  

5. Avoid conflicts of interest and refrain from using my school board position for personal gain.

6. Take no private action that will compromise the school board or administration.

7. Guard the confidentiality of information that is protected under applicable law.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123B.02, Subd. 1 (School District Powers)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.09 (School Board Powers)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.143, Subd. 1 (Superintendent)

Cross References:

MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 1, School Board Member Code of Ethics

Policy209.pdf

Adopted: 2008 Revised: March 15, 2016

210 CONFLICT OF INTEREST – SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to observe state statutes regarding conflicts of interest and to engage in school district business activities in a fashion designed to avoid any conflict of interest or the appearance of impropriety.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

It is the policy of the school board to contract for goods and services in conformance with statutory conflict of interest laws and in a manner that will avoid any conflict of interest or the appearance thereof. Accordingly, the school board will contract under the statutory exception provisions only when it is clearly in the best interest of the school district because of limitations that may exist on goods or services otherwise available to the school district.

III. GENERAL PROHIBITIONS AND RECOGNIZED STATUTORY EXCEPTIONS

A. A school board member who is authorized to take part in any manner in making any sale, lease, or contract in his or her official capacity shall not voluntarily have a personal financial interest in that sale, lease, or contract or personally benefit financially there from.

B. In the following circumstances, however, the school board may as an exception, by unanimous vote, contract for goods or services with a school board member of the school district:

1. In the designation of a bank or savings association, in which a school board member is interested, as an authorized depository for school district funds and as a source of borrowing, provided such deposited funds are protected in accordance with Minn. Stat. Ch. 118

A. Any school board member having said interest shall disclose that interest and the interest shall be entered upon the minutes of the school board. Disclosure must be made when such bank or savings association is first designated as a depository or source of borrowing, or when such school board member is elected, whichever is later. Disclosure serves as notice of the interest and must only be made once; 

2. The designation of an official newspaper, or publication of official matters therein, in which the school board member is interested when it is the only newspaper complying with statutory requirements relating to the designation or publication;

3. A contract with a cooperative association of which the school board member is a shareholder or stockholder but not an officer or manager;

4. A contract for which competitive bids are not required by law. A contract made under this exception will be void unless the following procedures are observed:

a. The school board must authorize the contract in advance of its performance by adopting a resolution setting out the essential facts and determining that the contract price is as low as or lower than the price at which the goods or services could be obtained elsewhere.

b. In the case of an emergency when the contract cannot be authorized in advance, payment of the claims must be authorized by a like resolution wherein the facts of the emergency are also stated.

c. Before a claim is paid, the interested school board member must file with the clerk of the school board an affidavit stating:

(1) The name of the school board member and the office held;

(2) An itemization of the goods or services furnished;

(3) The contract price;

(4) The reasonable value;

(5) The interest of the school board member in the contract; and

(6) That to the best of the school board member’s knowledge and belief, the contract price is as low as, or lower than, the price at which the goods or services could be obtained from other sources.

5. A school board member may contract with the school district to provide construction materials or services, or both, when the sealed bid process is used. When the contract comes before the school board for consideration, the interested school board member may not vote on the contract.

6. A school board member may rent space in a public facility at a rate commensurate with that paid by other members of the public. 

C. In the following circumstances, the school board may as an exception, by majority vote at a meeting where all school board members are present, contract for services with a school board member of the school district: A school board member may be newly employed or may continue to be employed by the school district as an employee where there is a reasonable expectation on July 1, or at the time the contract is entered into or extended, that the amount to be earned by that school board member under that contract or employment relationship, will not exceed $8,000 in that fiscal year. If the school board member does not receive majority approval to be initially employed or to continue in employment at a meeting where all school board members are present, that employment must be immediately terminated and that school board member will have no further rights to employment while serving as a school board member in the school district.

D. The school board may contract with a class of school district employees, such as teachers or custodians, where the spouse of a school board member is a member of the class of employees contracting with the school board and the employee spouse receives no special monetary or other benefit that is substantially different from the benefits that other members of the class receive under the employment contract. In order for the school board to invoke this exception, it must have a majority of disinterested school board members vote to approve the contract, direct the school board member spouse to abstain from voting to approve the contract, and publicly set out the essential facts of the contract at the meeting where the contract is approved.

IV. LIMITATIONS ON RELATED EMPLOYEES

A. The school board can hire or dismiss teachers only at duly called meetings. Where a husband and wife, brother and sister, or two brothers or sisters, constitute a quorum, no contract employing a teacher may be made or authorized except upon the unanimous vote of the full school board.

B. The school board may not employ any teacher related by blood or marriage to a school board member, within the fourth degree as computed by the civil law, except by a unanimous vote of the full school board.

V. CONFLICTS PRIOR TO TAKING OFFICE

A school board member with personal financial interest in a sale, lease, or contract with the school district which was entered before the school board member took office and presents an actual or potential conflict of interest, shall immediately notify the school board of such interest. It shall thereafter be the responsibility of the school board member to refrain from participating in any action relating to the sale, lease, or contract. At the time of renewal of any such sale, lease, or contract, the school board may enter into or renew such sale, lease, or contract only if it falls within one of the enumerated exceptions for contracts relating to goods or services provided above and if the procedures provided in this policy are followed.

VI. DETERMINATION AS TO WHETHER A CONFLICT OF INTEREST EXISTS

The determination as to whether a conflict of interest exists is to be made by the school board. Any school board member who has an actual or potential conflict shall notify the school board of such conflict immediately. The school board member shall thereafter cooperate with the school board as necessary for the school board to make its determination.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 122A.40, Subd. 3 (Teacher Hiring, Dismissal)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.195 (Board Member’s Right to Employment)
Minn. Stat. § 471.87 (Public Officers; Interest in Contract; Penalty)
Minn. Stat. § 471.88, Subds. 2, 3, 4, 5, 12, 13, and 21 (Exceptions)
Minn. Stat. § 471.89 (Contract, When Void)
Op. Atty. Gen. 437-A-4, March 15, 1935
Op. Atty. Gen. 90-C-5, July 30, 1940
Op. Atty. Gen. 90-A, August 14, 1957

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 101 (Legal Status of the School Board)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 209 (Code of Ethics)
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 1, School District Governance, Powers and Duties

Policy210.pdf

Adopted: 2008 Revised: April 5, 2016

211 CRIMINAL OR CIVIL ACTION AGAINST SCHOOL DISTRICT, SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER, EMPLOYEE, OR STUDENT

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance as to the school district’s position, rights, and responsibilities when a civil or criminal action is pending against the school district, or a school board member, school district employee, or student.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The school district recognizes that, when civil or criminal actions are pending against a school board member, school district employee, or student, the school district may be requested or required to take action.

B. In responding to such requests and/or requirements, the school district will take such measures as are appropriate to its primary mission of providing for the education of students in an environment that is safe for staff and students and is conducive to learning.

C. The school district acknowledges its statutory obligations with respect to providing assistance to school board members and teachers who are sued in connection with performance of school district duties. Collective bargaining agreement and school district policies may also apply.

III. CIVIL ACTIONS

A. Pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 466.07, Subd. 1, the school district shall defend and indemnify any school board member or school district employee for damages in school-related litigation, including punitive damages, claimed or levied against the school board member or employee, provided that he or she was acting in the performance of the duties of the position and was not guilty of malfeasance, willful neglect of duty, or bad faith.

B. Pursuant to Minn. Stat. §123B.25(b), with respect to teachers employed by the school district, upon written request of the teacher involved, the school district shall provide legal counsel for any school teacher against whom a claim is made 211-2 or action is brought for recovery of damages in any tort action involving physical injury to any person or property or for wrongful death arising out of or in connection with the employment of the teacher with the school district. The school district will choose legal counsel after consultation with the teacher.

C. Data Practices Educational data and personnel data maintained by the school district may be sought as evidence in a civil proceeding. The school district will release the data only pursuant to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, Minn. Stat. Ch. 13, and to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1232g and related regulations. When an employee is subpoenaed and is expected to testify regarding educational data or personnel data, he or she is to inform the building administrator or designated supervisor, who shall immediately inform the superintendent or designee. No school board member or employee may release data without consultation in advance with the school district official who is designated as the authority responsible for the collection, use, and dissemination of data.

D. Service of Subpoenas It is the policy of the school district that its officers and employees will normally not be involved in providing service of process for third parties in the school setting. E. Leave to Testify Leave for employees appearing in court, either when sued or under subpoena to testify, will be considered in accordance with school district personnel policies and applicable collective bargaining agreements.

IV. CRIMINAL CHARGES OR CONDUCT

A. Employees

1. The school district expects that its employees serve as positive role models for students. As role models for students, employees have a duty to conduct themselves in an exemplary manner.

2. If the school district receives information relating to activities of a criminal nature by an employee, the school district will investigate and take appropriate disciplinary action, which may include discharge, subject to school district policies, statutes, and provisions of applicable collective bargaining agreements.

3. Pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 123B.02, Subd. 20, if reimbursement for a criminal defense is requested by a school district employee, the school board may, after consulting with its legal counsel, reimburse the employee 211-3 for any costs and reasonable attorney fees incurred by the employee to defend criminal charges brought against the employee arising out of the performance of duties for the school district. The decision as to whether to reimburse shall be made in the discretion of the school board. A school board member who is a witness or an alleged victim in the case may not vote on the reimbursement. If a quorum of the school board is disqualified from voting on the reimbursement, the reimbursement must be approved by a judge of the district court.

B. Students

The school district has an interest in maintaining a safe and healthful environment and in preventing disruption of the educational process. In order to further that interest, the school district will take appropriate action regarding students convicted of crimes that relate to the school environment.

C. Criminal Investigations

1. It is the policy of the school district to cooperate with law enforcement officials. The school district will make all efforts, however, to encourage law enforcement officials to question students and employees outside of school hours and off school premises unless there are extenuating circumstances or the matter being investigated is school-related, or as otherwise provided by law.

2. If such questioning at school is unavoidable, the school district will attempt to maintain confidentiality, to avoid embarrassment to students and employees and to avoid disruption of the educational program. The school district will attempt to notify parents of a student under age 18 that police will be questioning their child. The superintendent, principal, or other appropriate school official will be present during the interview, except as otherwise required by law (Minn. Stat. § 626.556, Subd. 10), or as otherwise determined in consultation with the parent or guardian.

D. Data Practices

The school district will release to juvenile justice and law enforcement authorities educational and personnel data only in accordance with Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act) and 20 U.S.C. § 1232g (FERPA).

V. STATEMENTS WHEN LITIGATION IS PENDING

The school district recognizes that when a civil or criminal action is commenced or pending, parties to the lawsuit have particular duties in reference to persons involved or named in the lawsuit, as well as insurance carrier(s). Therefore, school board members or school district employees shall make or release statements in that situation only in consultation with legal counsel. 

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act)
Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56 (Pupil Fair Dismissal Act)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.02, Subd. 20 (Legal Counsel, Reimbursement)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.25(b) (Actions Against Teachers)
Minn. Stat. § 466.07, Subd. 1 (Indemnification)
20 U.S.C. § 1232g (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)
42 U.S.C. § 1983 (Civil Action for Deprivating Rights)
Minn. Op. Atty. Gen. 169 (Mar. 7, 1963)
Minn. Op. Atty. Gen. 169 (Nov. 3, 1943)
Dypress v. School Committee of Boston, 446 N.E.2d 1099 (Mass. App. Ct. 1983)
Wood v. Strickland, 420 U.S. 308, 95 S.Ct. 992, 43 L.Ed.2d 214 (1975)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 403 (Discipline, Suspension, and Dismissal of School District Employees)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 406 (Public and Private Personnel Data)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 408 (Subpoena of a School District Employee)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 414 (Mandated Reporting of Child Neglect or Physical or Sexual Abuse)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 515 (Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records)

Policy211.pdf

March 5, 2019 MSBA/MASA
Model Policy 212
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2005, 2019

212 SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER DEVELOPMENT

I. PURPOSE

In recognition of the need for continuing inservice training and development for its members, the purpose of this policy is to encourage the members of the school board to participate in professional development activities designed for them so that they may perform their responsibilities.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. New school board members will be provided the opportunity and encouragement to attend the orientation and training sessions sponsored by the Minnesota School Boards Association (MSBA). School board members shall receive training in school finance and management developed in consultation with MSBA.

B. All school board members are encouraged to participate in school board and related workshops and activities sponsored by local, state, and national school boards associations, as well as in the activities of other educational groups.

C. School board members are expected to report back to the school board with materials of interest gathered at the various meetings and workshops.

D. The school board will reimburse the necessary expenses of all school board members who attend meetings and conventions pertaining to school activities and the objectives of the school board, within the approved policy and budget allocations of the school district relating to the reimbursement of expenses involving the attendance at workshops and conventions.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123B.09, Subd. 2 (School Board Member Training)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 214 (Out-of-State Travel by School Board Members)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 412 (Expense Reimbursement)

Policy212.pdf

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY 

III. DESIGNATION OF STANDING COMMITTEES  

IV. PROCEDURES FOR SCHOOL BOARD COMMITTEES 

A. All meetings of committees or subcommittees shall be open to the public in compliance with the Open Meeting Law, and notice shall be given as prescribed by law. 

B. A committee or subcommittee shall act only within the guidelines and mission established for that committee or subcommittee by the school board. Individual board members, or any two or three board members appointed to any committee, have no authority to bind the board on any matter unless such authority is expressly granted by the entire board. 

C. The committee or subcommittee shall designate a secretary who will record the minutes of actions of the school board committee. 

D. The power of a committee or subcommittee of the school board is advisory only and is limited to making recommendations to the school board.

E. A committee or subcommittee of the school board shall, when appropriate, clarify in any dealings with the public that its powers are only advisory to the school board. 

F. Committee members will not hold a meeting of a committee outside the presence of administration and no committee meeting may be held without providing three day prior notice.

G. Committees will not stray into management work, and do not oversee or direct any school district staff, and do not have the authority to direct school district staff to take any specific actions or duties. Only the administration or the full school board may direct school district staff. 

Legal References: 

Policy 213.1 School Board Committees Procedure Appendix

1. The main purpose of the Audit Committee is to work with the consulting audit firm to provide financial oversight, understand the financial reporting process, and understand district internal controls. 

1. Audit Committee meetings will be held a minimum of once a year at the completion of the annual audit report.  

Policy213.pdf 

Adopted: July 7, 2009 Revised: September 17, 2013

214 OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL BY SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to control out-of-state travel by school board members as required by law.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

School board members have an obligation to become informed on the proper duties and functions of a school board member, to become familiar with issues that may affect the school district, to acquire a basic understanding of school finance and budgeting, and to acquire sufficient knowledge to comply with federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, and school district policies that relate to their functions as school board members. Occasionally, it may be appropriate for school board members to travel out of state to fulfill their obligations.

III. APPROPRIATE TRAVEL

Travel outside the state is appropriate when the school board finds it proper for school board members to acquire knowledge and information necessary to allow them to carry out their responsibilities as school board members. Travel to regional or national meetings of the National School Boards Association is presumed to fulfill this purpose. Travel to other out-of-state meetings for which the member intends to seek reimbursement from the school district should be pre-approved by the school board.

IV. REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES

Expenses to be reimbursed may include transportation, meals, lodging, registration fees, required materials, parking fees, tips, and other reasonable and necessary school district related expenses.

V. REIMBURSEMENT 

A. Any board member wishing to travel out of state for any school related meeting, conference, or other activity where the board member expects the school district to pay for or otherwise provide reimbursement for expenses, must seek prior approval of the board. Such approval must occur during a regularly scheduled School Board meeting.

B. Requests for reimbursement must be itemized on the official school district form and are to be submitted to the designated administrator. Receipts for lodging, commercial transportation, registration, and other reasonable and necessary expenses must be attached to the reimbursement form.

C. Automobile travel shall be reimbursed at the mileage rate set by the school board. Commercial transportation shall reflect economy fares and shall be reimbursed only for the actual cost of the trip.

D. Amounts to be reimbursed shall be within the school board’s approved budget allocations, including attendance at workshops and conventions.

VI. ESTABLISHMENT OF DIRECTIVES AND GUIDELINES

The superintendent shall develop a schedule of reimbursement rates for school district business expenses, including those expenses requiring advance approval and specific rates of reimbursement. The superintendent shall also develop directives and guidelines to address methods and times for submission of requests for reimbursement.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123B.09, Subd. 2 (School Board Member Training)
Minn. Stat. § 471.661 (Out-of-State Travel)
Minn. Stat. § 471.665 (Mileage Allowances)
Minn. Op. Atty. Gen. 1035 (Aug. 23, 1999) (Retreat Expenses)
Minn. Op. Atty. Gen. 161b-12 (Aug. 4, 1997) (Transportation Expenses)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 212 (School Board Member Development)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 412 (Expense Reimbursement)

Policy214.pdf

Orig. 1995, Rev. 2011, 2017
Adopted December 5, 2017

301 SCHOOL DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to clarify the role of the school district administration and its relationship with the school board.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. Effective administration and sound management practices are essential to realizing educational excellence. It is the responsibility of the school district administration to develop a school environment that recognizes the dignity of each student and employee, and the right of each student to access educational programs and services.

B. The school board expects all activities related to the operation of the school district to be administered in a well-planned manner, conducted in an orderly fashion, and to be consistent with the policies of the school board.

C. The school board shall seek specific recommendations, background information and professional advice from the school district administration, and will hold the administration accountable for sound management of the schools and the successful completion of agreed upon strategic objectives.

D. Although the school board holds the superintendent ultimately responsible for administration of the school district and annual evaluation of each principal, the school board also recognizes the direct responsibility of principals for educational results and effective administration, supervisory, and instructional leadership at the school building level.

E. The school board and school administration shall work together to share information and decisions that best serve the needs of school district students within financial and facility constraints that may exist.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123B.143 (Superintendent) Minn. Stat. § 123B.147 (Principals)

Cross References:

MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 3, Superintendent of Schools

Policy301.pdf

Orig. 1995, Rev. 2011, 2017
Adopted December 5, 2017

302 SUPERINTENDENT

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to recognize the importance of the role of the superintendent and the overall responsibility of that position within the school district.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The school board shall employ a superintendent who shall serve as an ex officio, nonvoting member of the school board and as chief executive officer of the school system.

III. GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

A. The superintendent is responsible for the management of the schools, the administration of all school district policies, and is directly accountable to the school board.

B. The superintendent shall annually evaluate each principal assigned responsibility for supervising a school building in the district. The superintendent will also annually evaluate each employee who is her/his direct report including the Director of Business Services or Controller, Director of Special Education, Athletics, Activities and Facilities Director, and the Director of Community Education.

C. The superintendent may delegate responsibilities to other school district personnel, but shall continue to be accountable for actions taken under such delegation.

D. Where responsibilities are not specifically prescribed, nor school board policy applicable, the superintendent shall use personal and professional judgment, subject to review by the school board.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123B.143 (Superintendent) 302-2

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 202 (School Board Officers)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 208 (Development, Adoption, and Implementation of Policies)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 214 (Out-of-State Travel by School Board Members)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 301 (School District Administration)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 303 (Superintendent Selection)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 304 (Superintendent Contract, Duties, and Evaluation)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 305 (Policy Implementation)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 306 (Administrator Code of Ethics)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 412 (Expense Reimbursement)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 510 (School Activities)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 511 (Student Fundraising)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 513 (Student Promotion, Retention, and Program Design)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 602 (Organization of School Calendar and School Day)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 605 (Alternative Programs)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 701 (Establishment and Adoption of School District Budget)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 704 (Development and Maintenance of an Inventory of Fixed Assets and a Fixed Asset Accounting System)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 802 (Disposition of Obsolete Equipment and Material)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 903 (Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 905 (Advertising)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 906 (Community Notification of Predatory Offenders)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 907 (Rewards)
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 3, Superintendent of Schools

Policy302.pdf

Orig. 1995, Rev. 1995, 1999, 2017
Adopted December 19, 2017

304 SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT, DUTIES, AND EVALUATION

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide for the use of an employment contract with the superintendent, a position description and the use of an instrument agreed to by the school board in consultation with the superintendent to evaluate performance.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The superintendent’s contract shall be used to formalize the employment relationship and to specifically identify and clarify all conditions of employment with the superintendent.

B. The specific duties for which the superintendent is accountable shall be set forth in a position description for the superintendent and shall be measured by a performance appraisal instrument agreed to by the school board in consultation with the superintendent. The school board shall use this instrument to periodically evaluate the performance of the superintendent.

C. The school board may use the model contract approved by the boards of the Minnesota School Boards Association and the Minnesota Association of School Administrators as a model instrument.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123B.143 (Superintendent)

Cross References:

MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 3, Superintendent of Schools (See Model Contract, Sample Performance Appraisals, and Model Job Description)

Policy304.pdf

Orig. 1995, Rev. 1995, 2002, 2017
Adopted December 19, 2017

306 ADMINISTRATOR CODE OF ETHICS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to establish the requirements of the school board that school administrators adhere to the standards of ethics and professional conduct in this policy and Minnesota law.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. An educational administrator’s professional behavior must conform to an ethical code. The code must be idealistic and at the same time practical, so that it can apply reasonably to all educational administrators. The administrator acknowledges that the schools belong to the public they serve for the purpose of providing educational opportunities to all. However, the administrator assumes responsibility for providing professional leadership in the school and community. This responsibility requires the administrator to maintain standards of exemplary professional conduct. It must be recognized that the administrator’s actions will be viewed and appraised by the community, professional associates, and students. To these ends, the administrator must subscribe to the following standards.

B. The Educational Administrator:

1. Makes the well-being of students the fundamental value of all decision making and actions.

2. Fulfills professional responsibilities with honesty and integrity.

3. Supports the principle of due process and protects the civil and human rights of all individuals.

4. Obeys local, state, and national laws and does not knowingly join or support organizations that advocate, directly or indirectly, the overthrow of the government.

5. Implements the school board’s policies.

6. Pursues appropriate measures to correct those laws, policies, and 306-2 regulations that are not consistent with sound educational goals.

7. Avoids using positions for personal gain through political, social, religious, economic, or other influence.

8. Accepts academic degrees or professional certification only from duly accredited institutions.

9. Maintains the standards and seeks to improve the effectiveness of the profession through research and continuing professional development.

10. Honors all contracts until fulfillment, release, or dissolution is mutually agreed upon by all parties to the contract.

11. Adheres to the Code of Ethics for School Administrators in Minnesota Rule.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 122A.14, Subd. 4 (Code of Ethics)
Minn. Rules Part 3512.5200 (Code of Ethics for School Administrators)

Cross References:

Policy306.pdf

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 401
Orig. 1995 - Rev. 2015 – Rev. 2016
Revised and Adopted October 6, 2020

401 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants for school district employment and school district employees.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The policy of the school district is to provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees that is free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, ethnic/national origin, sex, age, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, including gender identity or expression, or a disability.

B. The school district prohibits the harassment of any individual for any of the categories listed above. For information about the types of conduct that constitute impermissible harassment and the school district’s internal procedures for addressing complaints of harassment, please refer to the school district’s policy on harassment and violence.

C. This policy applies to all areas of employment including hiring, discharge, promotion, compensation, facilities, or privileges of employment.

D. Every school district employee shall be responsible for following this policy.

E. The school board hereby designates Wendy Webster (office is at 3301 Silver Lake Rd. NE, St. Anthony, MN 55418; phone is 612-706-1170; e-mail is wwebster@isd282.org as its Title IX coordinator. This employee coordinates the school district’s efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under Title IX.

F.  Any student, parent, or guardian having questions regarding the application of Title IX and its regulations and/or this policy should discuss them with the Title IX coordinator. Questions relating solely to Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights of the United States Department of Education. In the absence of a specific designee, an inquiry or complaint should be referred to the superintendent or the school district human rights officer.

III. COORDINATOR

A. Persons who have questions or comments should contact Administrator Kari Page; 3303 33rd Ave NE, St. Anthony, MN 55418; telephone number - 612-706-1201. This person is the school district’s Americans with Disabilities Act/Section 504 coordinator.

IV. GRIEVANCE REPORTING PROCEDURE FOR COMPLAINTSOF DISCRIMINATION

The following grievance procedure applies to claims of sex, disability, and racial discrimination:

A. Any person who believes he or she has been the victim of unlawful discrimination or any person with knowledge or belief of conduct that may constitute unlawful discrimination shall report the alleged acts immediately to an appropriate school district official designated by this policy. The complaint must be filed within 90 calendar days of the alleged violation.

B. The Human Rights Officer is responsible for receiving oral or written complaints of unlawful discrimination toward an employee or student. However, nothing in this policy shall prevent any person from reporting unlawful discrimination toward an employee or student directly with the Human Rights Officer, the school board or other school district official.

C. The school board hereby designates Wendy Webster 3301 Silver Lake Road, St. Anthony, MN 55418 612-706-1170 wwebster@isd282.org as the school district Human Rights Officer(s) to receive reports, complaints, or grievances of unlawful discrimination. If the complaint involves a Human Rights Officer, the complaint shall be filed directly with [a different staff member, such as the superintendent or school board chair, designated by the school board].

D. Upon receipt of a complaint, the Human Rights Officer shall immediately notify the superintendent. If the superintendent is the subject of the complaint, the Human Rights Officer shall immediately notify the school board.

E. The Human Rights Officer may request but not insist upon a written complaint. Alternative means of filing a complaint, such as through a personal interview or by tape recording, shall be made available upon request for qualified persons with a disability. If the complaint is oral, it shall be reduced to writing within 24 hours and forwarded to the superintendent. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action. The school district encourages the reporting party to complete the complaint form for written complaints. It is available from the principal of each building or the school district office.

F. The school district shall respect the privacy of the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and the witnesses, consistent with the school district’s legal obligations to investigate, take appropriate action, and comply with any discovery or disclosure obligations.

    TITLE IX COORDINATOR           SECTION 504 COORDINATOR
     Wendy Webster                            Kari Page
     3303 33rd Ave NE                          3600 Highcrest Rd NE
     St. Anthony, MN 55418                Minneapolis, MN 55418
     612-706-1170                                   612-706-1201
     wwebster@isd282.org                kpage@isd282.org

RIGHT TO ALTERNATIVE COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

These procedures do not deny the right of any individual to pursue other avenues of recourse, which may include filing charges with the agencies listed below or initiating action in state or federal court.

Claims of discrimination may also be pursued through the following agencies where appropriate:

Office for Civil Rights
Chicago Office
U.S. Department of Education
John C. Kluczynski Federal Building
230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604
Telephone: 312-730-1560
Facsimile: (312) 730-1576
Email: OCR.Chicago@ed.gov

Minnesota Department of Human Rights
Griggs Midway Building
540 Fairview Avenue North, Suite 201
St. Paul, MN 55104
Telephone: 1-800-657-3704 or (651) 539-1100
Email: Info.mdhr@state.mn.us

For complaints of employment discrimination:

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Towle Building
330 South 2nd Avenue, Suite 720
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Telephone: (612) 552-7306
Fax: (612) 335-4066
TTY: 1-800-669-4000
ASL Video Phone: 1-844-234-5122

This document provides general information and is not to be a substitute for legal advice. Changes in the law, including timelines for filing a complaint, may affect your rights.

Legal References:
34 C.F.R. Section 104.7(b) (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act)
34 C.F.R. Section 106.8(b) (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972)

Resources: 
Office for Civil Rights
Chicago Office
U.S. Department of Education
John C. Kluczynski Federal Building
230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604
Telephone: 312-730-1560
Facsimile: (312) 730-1576
Email: OCR.Chicago@ed.gov

Reading Room, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights: http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/publications.html V. RESOURCES: U.S. Department of

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 363A (Minnesota Human Rights Act)
29 U.S.C. § 621 et seq. (Age Discrimination in Employment Act)
34 C.F.R. Section 104.7(b) (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act)
34 C.F.R. Section 106.8(b) (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972)29 U.S.C. § 2615 (Family and Medical Leave Act)
38 U.S.C. § 4211 et seq. (Employment and Training of Veterans)
38 U.S.C. § 4301 et seq. (Employment and Reemployment Rights of Members of the Uniformed Services)
42 U.S.C. § 2000e et seq. (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act)
42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq. (Equal Opportunity for Individuals with Disabilities)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 402 (Disability Nondiscrimination)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 405 (Veteran’s Preference)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 413 (Harassment and Violence)

Policy401.pdf

Revised and Adopted – September 1, 2020 and October 6, 2020

402 DISABILITY NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
 

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide a fair employment setting for all persons and to comply with state and federal law.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The school district shall not discriminate against qualified individuals with disabilities because of the disabilities of such individuals in regard to job application procedures, hiring, advancement, discharge, compensation, job training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.

B. The school district shall not engage in contractual or other arrangements that have the effect of subjecting its qualified applicants or employees with disabilities to discrimination on the basis of disability. The school district shall not exclude or otherwise deny equal jobs or job benefits to a qualified individual because of the known disability of an individual with whom the qualified individual is known to have a relationship or association.

C. The school district shall make reasonable accommodations for the known physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability who is an applicant or employee, unless the accommodation would impose undue hardship on the operation of the business of the school district.

D. Any job applicant or employee wishing to discuss the need for a reasonable accommodation, or other matters related to a disability or the enforcement and application of this policy, should contact Kari Page, 3303 33Rd Ave NE, St. Anthony, MN 55418, 612-706-1201, kpage@isd282.org,  this individual is the school district’s appointed ADA/Section 504 coordinator.

III. GRIEVANCE REPORTING PROCEDURE FOR COMPLAINTSOF DISCRIMINATION

The following grievance procedure applies to claims of sex, disability, and racial discrimination:

A. Any person who believes he or she has been the victim of unlawful discrimination or any person with knowledge or belief of conduct that may constitute unlawful discrimination shall report the alleged acts immediately to an appropriate school district official designated by this policy. The complaint must be filed within 90 calendar days of the alleged violation.

B. The Human Rights Officer is responsible for receiving oral or written complaints of unlawful discrimination toward an employee or student. However, nothing in this policy shall prevent any person from reporting unlawful discrimination toward an employee or student directly with the Human Rights Officer, the school board or other school district official.

C. The school board hereby designates Wendy Webster 3301 Silver Lake Road, St. Anthony, MN 55418 612-706-1170 wwebster@isd282.org as the school district Human Rights Officer(s) to receive reports, complaints, or grievances of unlawful discrimination. If the complaint involves a Human Rights Officer, the complaint shall be filed directly with [a different staff member, such as the superintendent or school board chair, designated by the school board].

D. Upon receipt of a complaint, the Human Rights Officer shall immediately notify the superintendent. If the superintendent is the subject of the complaint, the Human Rights Officer shall immediately notify the school board.

E. The Human Rights Officer may request but not insist upon a written complaint. Alternative means of filing a complaint, such as through a personal interview or by tape recording, shall be made available upon request for qualified persons with a disability. If the complaint is oral, it shall be reduced to writing within 24 hours and forwarded to the superintendent. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action. The school district encourages the reporting party to complete the complaint form for written complaints. It is available from the principal of each building or the school district office.

F. The school district shall respect the privacy of the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and the witnesses, consistent with the school district’s legal obligations to investigate, take appropriate action, and comply with any discovery or disclosure obligations.

    TITLE IX COORDINATOR           SECTION 504 COORDINATOR
     Wendy Webster                            Kari Page
     3303 33rd Ave NE                          3600 Highcrest Rd NE
     St. Anthony, MN 55418                Minneapolis, MN 55418
     612-706-1170                                   612-706-1201
     wwebster@isd282.org                kpage@isd282.org

RIGHT TO ALTERNATIVE COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

These procedures do not deny the right of any individual to pursue other avenues of recourse, which may include filing charges with the agencies listed below or initiating action in state or federal court.

Claims of discrimination may also be pursued through the following agencies where appropriate:

Office for Civil Rights
Chicago Office
U.S. Department of Education
John C. Kluczynski Federal Building
230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604
Telephone: 312-730-1560
Facsimile: (312) 730-1576
Email: OCR.Chicago@ed.gov

Minnesota Department of Human Rights
Griggs Midway Building
540 Fairview Avenue North, Suite 201
St. Paul, MN 55104
Telephone: 1-800-657-3704 or (651) 539-1100
Email: Info.mdhr@state.mn.us

For complaints of employment discrimination:

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Towle Building
330 South 2nd Avenue, Suite 720
Minneapolis, MN 55401
Telephone: (612) 552-7306
Fax: (612) 335-4066
TTY: 1-800-669-4000
ASL Video Phone: 1-844-234-5122

This document provides general information and is not to be a substitute for legal advice. Changes in the law, including timelines for filing a complaint, may affect your rights.

Legal References:
34 C.F.R. Section 104.7(b) (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act)
34 C.F.R. Section 106.8(b) (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972)

Resources: 
Office for Civil Rights
Chicago Office
U.S. Department of Education
John C. Kluczynski Federal Building
230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604
Telephone: 312-730-1560
Facsimile: (312) 730-1576
Email: OCR.Chicago@ed.gov

Reading Room, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights: http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/publications.html V. RESOURCES: U.S. Department of

IV. LEGAL REFERENCES:

34 C.F.R. Section 104.7(b) (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act)
34 C.F.R. Section 106.8(b) (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972)

V.  RESOURCES:

Office for Civil Rights
Chicago Office
U.S. Department of Education
John C. Kluczynski Federal Building
230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor
Chicago, IL 60604
Telephone: 312-730-1560
Facsimile: (312) 730-1576
Email: OCR.Chicago@ed.gov

Reading Room, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights
https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/publications.html

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 363A (Minnesota Human Rights Act)
29 U.S.C. 794 et seq. (Rehabilitation Act of 1973, § 504)
42 U.S.C., Ch. 126 § 12112 (Americans with Disabilities Act)
29 C.F.R. Part 32
34 C.F.R. Section 104.7(b) (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act)
34 C.F.R. Section 106.8(b) (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972)

Policy402.pdf

Adopted: 1999 Revised: April 19, 2016

403 DISCIPLINE, SUSPENSION, AND DISMISSAL OF SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to achieve the effective operation of the school district’s programs through the cooperation of all employees under a system of policies and rules applied fairly and uniformly.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The disciplinary process described herein is designed to utilize progressive steps, where appropriate, to produce positive corrective action. While the school district intends that in most cases progressive discipline will be administered, the specific form of discipline chosen in a particular case and/or the decision to impose discipline in a manner otherwise, is solely within the discretion of the school district.

III. DISCIPLINE

A. Violation of School Laws and Rules

The form of discipline imposed for violations of school laws and rules may vary from an oral reprimand to termination of employment or discharge depending upon factors such as the nature of the violation, whether the violation was intentional, knowing and/or willful and whether the employee has been the subject of prior disciplinary action of the same or a different nature. School laws and rules to which this provision applies include:

1. policies of the school district;

2. directives and/or job requirements imposed by administration and/or the employee’s supervisor; and

3. federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations, including, but not limited to, the rules and regulations adopted by federal and state agencies.

B. Substandard Performance

An employee’s substandard performance may result in the imposition of discipline ranging from an oral reprimand to termination of employment or discharge. In most instances, discipline imposed for the reason of substandard performance will follow a progressive format and will be accompanied by guidance, help and encouragement to improve from the employee’s supervisor and reasonable time for correction of the employee’s deficiency.

C. Misconduct

Misconduct of an employee will result in the imposition of discipline consistent with the seriousness of the misconduct. Conduct which falls into this category includes, but is not limited to:

1. unprofessional conduct;

2. failure to observe rules, regulations, policies and standards of the school district and/or directives and orders of supervisors and any other act of an insubordinate nature;

3. continuing neglect of duties in spite of oral warnings, written warnings and/or other forms of discipline;

4. personal and/or immoral misconduct;

5. use of illegal drugs, alcohol or any other chemical substance on the job or any use off the job which impacts on the employee’s performance;

6. deliberate and serious violation of the rights and freedoms of other employees, students, parents or other persons in the school community;

7. activities of a criminal nature relating to the fitness or effectiveness of the employee to perform the duties of the position;

8. failure to follow professional and personal ethics;

9. falsification of credentials and experience;

10. unauthorized destruction of school district property;

11. other good and sufficient grounds relating to any other act constituting inappropriate conduct;

12. neglect of duty;

13. violation of the rights of others as provided by federal and state laws related to human rights.

IV. FORMS OF DISCIPLINE

A. The forms of discipline that may be imposed by the school district include, but are not limited to:

1. oral warning; 

2. written warning or reprimand;

3. probation;

4. disciplinary suspension, demotion or leave of absence with pay;

5. disciplinary suspension, demotion or leave of absence without pay; and

6. dismissal/termination or discharge from employment.

B. Other forms of discipline, including any combination of the forms described in Paragraph A., above, may be imposed if, in the judgment of the administration, another form of discipline will better accomplish the school district’s objective of stopping or correcting the offending conduct and improving the employee’s performance.

V. PROCEDURES FOR ADMINISTERING POLICY

A. In an instance where any form of discipline is imposed, the employee’s supervisor will:

1. Advise the employee of any inadequacy, deficiency or conduct which is the cause of the discipline, either orally or in writing. If given orally, the supervisor will document the fact that an oral warning was given to the employee specifying the date, time and nature of the oral warning.

2. Provide written directives to the employee to correct the conduct or performance.

3. Forward documentation to the administrator in charge of personnel for filing in the employee’s personnel file.

4. Allow a reasonable period of time, when appropriate, for the employee to correct or remediate the performance or conduct.

5. Specify the expected level of performance or modification of conduct to be required from the employee.

B. The school district retains the right to immediately discipline, terminate or discharge an employee as appropriate, subject to relevant governing law and collective bargaining agreements where applicable.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 122A.40 (Teachers – Employment; Contracts; Termination)
Minn. Stat. § 122A.41 (Teacher Tenure)
Minn. Stat. § 122A.44 (Contracting with Teachers)
Minn. Stat. § 122A.58 (Coaches)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.02, Subd. 14 (Employees; Contracts for Services)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.143 (Superintendent)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.147 (Principals)
Minn. Stat. § 197.46 et seq. (Veterans Preference Act)

Cross References:

MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 3, Employees

Policy403.pdf

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 404
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2009, 2017 Adopted March 21, 2017

404 EMPLOYMENT BACKGROUND CHECKS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe and healthy environment in the school district in order to promote the physical, social, and psychological well-being of its students. To that end, the school district will seek a criminal history background check for applicants who receive an offer of employment with the school district and on all individuals, except enrolled student volunteers, who are offered the opportunity to provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services to the school district, regardless of whether any compensation is paid, or such other background checks as provided by this policy. The school district may also elect to do background checks of other volunteers, independent contractors, and student employees in the school district.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The school district shall require that applicants for school district positions who receive an offer of employment and all individuals, except enrolled student volunteers, who are offered the opportunity to provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services to the school district, regardless of whether any compensation is paid, submit to a criminal history background check. The offer of employment or the opportunity to provide services shall be conditioned upon a determination by the school district that an individual’s criminal history does not preclude the individual from employment with, or provision of services to, the school district.

B. The school district specifically reserves any and all rights it may have to conduct background checks regarding current employees, applicants, or service providers without the consent of such individuals.

C. Adherence to this policy by the school district shall in no way limit the school district’s right to require additional information, or to use procedures currently in place or other procedures to gain additional background information concerning employees, applicants, volunteers, service providers, independent contractors, and student employees. 

III. PROCEDURES

A. Normally an individual will not commence employment or provide services until the school district receives the results of the criminal history background check. The school district may conditionally hire an applicant or allow an individual to provide services pending completion of the background check, but shall notify the individual that the individual’s employment or opportunity to provide services may be terminated based on the result of the background check. Background checks will be performed by the McDowell Agency or the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA). The BCA shall conduct the background check by retrieving criminal history data as defined in Minn. Stat. § 13.87. The school district reserves the right to also have criminal history background checks conducted by other organizations or agencies.

B. In order for an individual to be eligible for employment or to provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services to the school district, except for an enrolled student volunteer, the individual must sign a criminal history consent form, which provides permission for the school district to conduct a criminal history background check, and provide a money order or check payable to either the BCA or to the school district, at the election of the school district, in an amount equal to the actual cost to the BCA and the school district of conducting the criminal history background check. The cost of the criminal history background check is the responsibility of the individual, unless the school district decides to pay the costs for a volunteer, an independent contractor, or a student employee. If the individual fails to provide the school district with a signed Informed Consent Form and fee at the time the individual receives a job offer, or permission to provide services, the individual will be considered to have voluntarily withdrawn the application for employment or request to provide services.

C. The school district, in its discretion, may elect not to request a criminal history background check on an individual who holds an initial entrance license issued by the state board of teaching or the commissioner of education within the 12 months preceding an offer of employment or permission to provide services.

D. The school district may use the results of a criminal background check conducted at the request of another school hiring authority if:

1. the results of the criminal background check are on file with the other school hiring authority or otherwise accessible;

2. the other school hiring authority conducted a criminal background check within the previous 12 months;

3. the individual executes a written consent form giving the school district access to the results of the check; and

4. there is no reason to believe that the individual has committed an act  subsequent to the check that would disqualify the individual for employment or provision of services.

E. For all nonstate residents who are offered employment with or the opportunity to provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services to the school district, the school district shall request a criminal history background check on such individuals from the superintendent of the BCA and from the government agency performing the same function in the resident state or, if no government entity performs the same function in the resident state, from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The offer of employment or the opportunity to provide services shall be conditioned upon a determination by the school district that an individual’s criminal history does not preclude the individual from employment with, or provision of services to, the school district. Such individuals must provide an executed criminal history consent form.

F. When required, individuals must provide fingerprints to assist in a criminal history background check. If the fingerprints provided by the individual are unusable, the individual will be required to submit another set of prints.

G. Copies of this policy shall be available in the school district’s employment office and will be distributed to applicants for employment and individuals who are offered the opportunity to provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services upon request. The need to submit to a criminal history background check may be included with the basic criteria for employment or provision of services in the position posting and position advertisements.

H. The individual will be informed of the results of the criminal background check(s) to the extent required by law.

I. If the criminal history background check precludes employment with, or provision of services to, the school district, the individual will be so advised.

J. The school district may apply these procedures to other volunteers, independent contractors, or student employees.

K. At the beginning of each school year or when a student enrolls, the school district will notify parents and guardians about this policy and identify those positions subject to a background check and the extent of the school district’s discretion in requiring a background check. The school district may include this notice in its student handbook, a school policy guide, or other similar communication. A form notice for this purpose is included with this policy.

IV. CRIMINAL HISTORY CONSENT FORM

A form to obtain consent for a criminal history background check is included with this policy. 

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 13.04, Subd. 4 (Inaccurate or Incomplete Data)
Minn. Stat. § 13.87, Subd. 1 (Criminal History Data)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.03 (Background Check)
Minn. Stat. §§ 299C.60-299C.64 (Minnesota Child Protection Background Check Act)
Minn. Stat. § 364.09(b) (Exception for School Districts)

Cross References:

Policy404.pdf

Date:

The following named individual has made application with this School District for employment or provision of athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services or chaperoning or volunteering.

Full Name of Individual:

(please print: Last, First, Middle)

Maiden, Previous, Alias:

Date of Birth (Month/Day/Year):

Sex (M or F):

I authorize the McDowell Agency or the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension or other agencies to disclose all criminal history record information to the St. Anthony – New Brighton School District pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 123B.03 for the purpose of ___________________________________with this School District.

CONDITIONAL HIRING:

I understand that the School District may permit me to commence my employment duties or provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services pending completion of the criminal history background check and acknowledge and agree that my employment or services may be terminated based on the result of the background check.

The expiration of this authorization shall be for a period no longer than one year from the date of my signature.

Signature of Applicant or Potential Service Provider Date Subscribed and sworn to before me this _____ day of __________, 20___. _________________________________

Notary Public

EMPLOYMENT AND SERVICES CRIMINAL HISTORY BACKGROUND CHECKS NOTICE TO PARENTS AND GUARDIANS

The school district has adopted a policy, the purpose of which is to promote the physical, social, and psychological well-being of its students. Pursuant to this policy, the school district shall seek criminal history background checks for all applicants who receive an offer of employment with the school district. The school district also shall seek criminal history background checks for all individuals, except enrolled student volunteers, who are offered the opportunity to provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services to the school district, regardless of whether compensation is paid. These positions include, but are not limited to, all athletic coaches, extracurricular academic coaches, assistants, and advisors. The school district may elect to seek criminal history background checks for other volunteers, independent contractors, and student employees. 

Policy404-ConsentForm.pdf

Adopted: November 3, 2009 Revised:

405 VETERAN’S PREFERENCE

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to comply with Minnesota law mandating preference points for veterans applying for employment with political subdivisions.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. It is the school district’s policy to comply with Minnesota law regarding veteran’s preference rights and the mandating of preference points to veterans and spouses of deceased veterans or disabled veterans.

B. Veteran preference points will be applied pursuant to applicable law as follows:

1. There shall be added to the competitive open examination rating of a non disabled veteran, who so elects, a credit of five points provided that the veteran obtained a passing rating on the examination without the addition of the credit points.

2. There shall be added to the competitive open examination rating of a disabled veteran, who so elects, a credit of ten points provided that the veteran obtained a passing rating on the examination without the addition of the credit points.

3. There shall be added to the competitive promotional examination rating of a disabled veteran, who so elects, a credit of five points provided that (a) the veteran obtained a passing rating on the examination without the addition of the credit points and (b) the veteran is applying for a first promotion after securing public employment.

C. Eligibility for and application of veteran’s preference and the definition of a veteran for purpose of preference will be pursuant to applicable law.

D. When notifying applicants that they have been accepted into the selection process, the school district shall notify applicants that they may elect to use veteran’s preference.

E. It is the school district’s policy to use a 100-point hiring system to enable allocation of veteran preference points.

F. If the school district rejects a member of the finalist pool who has claimed veteran’s preference, the school district shall notify the finalist in writing of the reasons for the rejection and file the notice with the school district’s personnel officer.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 43A.11 (Veteran’s Preference)
Minn. Stat. § 197.455 (Veteran’s Preference Applied)
Minn. Stat. § 197.46 et seq. (Veterans Preference Act)
Hall v. City of Champlin, 463 N.W.2d 502 (1990)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 401 (Equal Employment Opportunity)
MSBA Research Bulletin 91-6

Policy405.pdf

Adopted: November 16, 2004 Revised: December 6, 2022

Revised October 3, 2023

406 PUBLIC AND PRIVATE PERSONNEL DATA

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to school district employees as to the data the school district collects and maintains regarding its employees, volunteers, independent contractors, and applicants (“personnel”).

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. All data on individuals collected, created, received, maintained, or disseminated by the school district, which is classified by statute or federal law as public, shall be accessible to the public pursuant to the procedures established by the school district.

B. All other data on individuals is private or confidential.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Public” means that the data is available to anyone who requests it.

B. “Private” means the data is not public and is accessible only to the following:  the subject of the data, as limited by any applicable state or federal law; individuals within the school district whose work assignments reasonably require access; entities and agencies as determined by the responsible authority who are authorized by law to gain access to that specific data; and entities or individuals given access by the express written direction of the data subject.

C. “Confidential” means the data are not public and are not accessible to the subject.

D. “Parking space leasing data” means the following government data on an applicant for, or lessee  of, a parking space:  residence address, home telephone number, beginning and ending work hours, place of employment, location of parking space, and work telephone number.

E. “Personnel data” means government data on individuals maintained because they are or were employees, applicants for employment, volunteers or independent contractors for the school district.  Personnel data include data submitted by an employee to the school district as part of an organized self-evaluation effort by the school district to request suggestions from all employees on ways to cut costs, make the school district more efficient, or to improve school district operations. 

F. “Finalist” means an individual who is selected to be interviewed by the school board for a position.

G. “Protected health information” means individually identifiable health information as defined in 45 Code of Federal Regulations § 160.103, that is transmitted by electronic media, maintained in electronic media, or transmitted or maintained in any other form or medium by a health care provider, in connection with a transaction covered by 45 Code of Federal Regulations Parts 160, 162 and 164.  “Protected health information” excludes individually identifiable health information in education records covered by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, employment records held by a school district in its role as employer; and records regarding a person who has been deceased for more than fifty (50) years.

H. “Public officials” means business managers; human resource directors; athletic directors whose duties include at least fifty (50) percent of their time spent in administration, personnel, supervision, and evaluation; chief financial officers; directors; and individuals defined as superintendents and principals and in a charter school, individuals employed in comparable positions.

IV. PUBLIC PERSONNEL DATA

A. The following information on current and former employees, volunteers and independent contractors of the school district, is public:

1. name;

2. employee identification number, which may not be the employee’s Social Security number;

3. actual gross salary;

4. salary range;

5. terms and conditions of employment relationship;

6. contract fees;

7. actual gross pension;

8. the value and nature of employer-paid fringe benefits;

9. the basis for and the amount of any added remuneration, including expense reimbursement, in addition to salary;

10. job title;

11. bargaining unit;

12. job description;

13. education and training background;

14. previous work experience;

15. date of first and last employment;

16. the existence and status of any complaints or charges against the employee, regardless of whether the complaint or charge resulted in a disciplinary action;

17. the final disposition of any disciplinary action, as defined in Minnesota. Statutes, section 13.43, subdivision. 2(b), together with the specific reasons for the action and data documenting the basis of the action, excluding data that would identify confidential sources who are employees of the school district;

18. the complete terms of any agreement settling any dispute arising out of the employment relationship, including superintendent buyout agreements, except that the agreement must include specific reasons for the agreement if it involves the payment of more than $10,000 of public money, and such agreement may not have the purpose or effect of limiting access to or disclosure of personnel data or limiting the discussion of information or opinions related to personnel data;

19. work location;

20. work telephone number;

21. badge number;

22. work-related continuing education;

23. honors and awards received; and

24. payroll time sheets or other comparable data that are used only to account for employee’s work time for payroll purposes, except to the extent that release of time sheet data would reveal the employee’s reasons for the use of sick or other medical leave or other not public data.

B. The following information on current and former applicants for employment by the school district is public:

1. veteran status;

2. relevant test scores;

3. rank on eligible list;

4. job history;

5. education and training; and

6. work availability.

C. Names of applicants are private data except when certified as eligible for appointment to a vacancy or when applicants are considered by the school board to be finalists for public employment.

D. Applicants for appointment to a public body.

1. Data about applicants for appointment to a public body collected by the school district as a result of the applicant’s application for employment are private data on individuals except that the following are public:

a. name;

b. city of residence, except when the appointment has a residency requirement that requires the entire address to be public;

c. education and training;

d. employment history;

e. volunteer work;

f. awards and honors;

g. prior government service;

h. any data required to be provided or that are voluntarily provided in an application for appointment to a multimember agency pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 15.0597; and

i. veteran status.

2. Once an individual is appointed to a public body, the following additional items of data are public:

a. residential address;

b. either a telephone number or electronic mail address where the appointee can be reached, or both at the request of the appointee;

c. first and last dates of service on the public body;

d. the existence and status of any complaints or charges against an appointee; and

e. upon completion of an investigation of a complaint or charge against an appointee, the final investigative report is public, unless access to the data would jeopardize an active investigation.

3. Notwithstanding paragraph 2., any electronic mail address or telephone number provided by a public body for use by an appointee shall be public.  An appointee may use an electronic mail address or telephone number provided by the public body as the designated electronic mail address or telephone number at which the appointee can be reached.

E. Regardless of whether there has been a final disposition as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 13.43, subdivision 2(b), upon completion of an investigation of a complaint or charge against a public official, as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 13.43, subdivision 2(e), or if a public official resigns or is terminated from employment while the complaint or charge is pending, all data relating to the complaint or charge are public, unless access to the data would jeopardize an active investigation or reveal confidential sources.  Data relating to a complaint or charge against a public official is public only if:

 1. the complaint or charge results in disciplinary action or the employee resigns or is terminated from employment while the complaint or charge is pending; or

2. potential legal claims arising out of the conduct that is the subject of the complaint or charge are released as part of a settlement agreement.

Data that is classified as private under another law is not made public by this provision.

V. PRIVATE PERSONNEL DATA

A. All other personnel data not listed in Section IV are private data will not be otherwise released unless authorized by law.

B. Data pertaining to an employee’s dependents are private data on individuals.

C. Data created, collected, or maintained by the school district to administer employee assistance programs are private.

D. Parking space leasing data with regard to data on individuals are private.

E. An individual’s checking account number is private when submitted to a government entity.

F. Personnel data must be disseminated to labor organizations to the extent the responsible authority  determines if the dissemination is necessary for the labor organization to conduct elections, investigate and process grievances, notify employees of fair share fee assessments and implement the provisions of Minnesota Statutes chapters 179 and 179A.  Personnel data shall be disseminated to labor organizations and the Bureau of Mediation Services (“BMS”) to the extent the dissemination is ordered or authorized by the Commissioner of the BMS. Employee Social Security numbers are not necessary to implement the provisions of Chapter 179 and 179A.

The home addresses, nonemployer issued phone numbers and email addresses, dates of birth, and emails or other communications between exclusive representatives and their members, prospective members, and nonmember are private data on individuals.

Dissemination of personnel data to a labor organization pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 13.43, subdivision 6, shall not subject the school district to liability under Minnesota Statutes, section 13.08.

Personnel data described under Minnesota Statutes, section 179A.07, subdivision 8, must be disseminated to an exclusive representative under the terms of that subdivision.

G. The school district may display a photograph of a current or former employee to prospective witnesses as part of the school district’s investigation of any complaint or charge against the employee.

H. The school district may, if its responsible authority or designee reasonably determines that the release of personnel data is necessary to protect an employee from harm to self or to protect another person who may be harmed by the employee, release data that are relevant to the concerns for safety to:

1. the person who may be harmed and to the attorney representing the person when the data are relevant to obtaining a restraining order;

2. a prepetition screening team conducting an investigation of the employee under Minnesota Statutes. section  253B.07, subdivision 1; or

3. a court, law enforcement agency, or prosecuting authority.

I. Private personnel data or confidential investigative data on employees may be disseminated to a law enforcement agency for the purpose of reporting a crime or alleged crime committed by an employee, or for the purpose of assisting law enforcement in the investigation of a crime or alleged crime committed by an employee.

J. A complainant has access to a statement provided by the complainant to the school district in connection with a complaint or charge against an employee.

K. When allegations of sexual or other types of harassment are made against an employee, the employee does not have access to data that would identify the complainant or other witnesses if the responsible authority determines that the employee’s access to that data would:

1. threaten the personal safety of the complainant or a witness; or

2. subject the complainant or witness to harassment.

If a disciplinary proceeding is initiated against the employee, data on the complainant or witness shall be available to the employee as may be necessary for the employee to prepare for the proceeding.

L. The school district must report to the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (“PELSB”) or the Board of School Administrators (“BOSA”), whichever has jurisdiction over the teacher’s or administrator’s license, as required by Minnesota Statutes, section 122A.20, subdivision. 2, and shall, upon written request from the licensing board having jurisdiction over  license, provide the licensing board with information about the teacher or administrator from the school district’s files, any termination or disciplinary proceeding, and settlement or compromise, or any investigative file in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section  122A.20, subdivision 2.  

M. Private personnel data shall be disclosed to the Department of Employment and Economic Development for the purpose of administration of the unemployment insurance program under Minnesota Statutes. Ch. 268.

N. When a report of alleged maltreatment of a student in an elementary, middle school, high school or charter school is made to the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education (“MDE”) under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 260E, data that are relevant and collected by the school facility about the person alleged to have committed maltreatment must be provided to the Commissioner on request for purposes of an assessment or investigation of the maltreatment report.  Additionally, personnel data may be released for purposes of providing information to a parent, legal guardian, or custodian of a child in accordance with MDE Screening Guidelines.

O. The school district shall release to a requesting school district or charter school private personnel data on a current or former employee related to acts of violence toward or sexual contact with a student, if 

1. an investigation conducted by or on behalf of the school district or law enforcement affirmed the allegations in writing prior to release and the investigation resulted in the resignation of the subject of the data; or 

2. the employee resigned while a complaint or charge involving the allegations was pending, the allegations involved acts of sexual contact with a student, and the employer informed the employee in writing, before the employee resigned, that if the employee resigns while the complaint or charge is still pending, the employer must release private personnel data about the employee’s alleged sexual contact with a student to a school district or charter school requesting the data after the employee applies for employment with that school district or charter school and the data remain classified as provided in Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13.  

Data that are released under this paragraph must not include data on the student.

P. Data submitted by an employee to the school district as part of an organized self-evaluation effort by the school district to request suggestions from all employees on ways to cut costs, make the school district more efficient, or improve the school district operations is private data. An employee who is identified in a suggestion, however, shall have access to all data in the suggestion except the identity of the employee making the suggestion.

Q. Protected health information, as defined in 45 C.F.R. Parts 160 and 164, on employees is private and will not be disclosed except as permitted or required by law.

R. Personal home contact information for employees may be used by the school district to ensure that an employee can be reached in the event of an emergency or other disruption affecting continuity of school district operations and may be shared with another government entity in the event of an emergency or other disruption to ensure continuity of operation for the school district or government entity.

S. The personal telephone number, home address, and electronic mail address of a current or former employee of a contractor or subcontractor maintained as a result of a contractual relationship between the school district and a contractor or subcontractor entered on or after August 1, 2012, are private data.  These data must be shared with another government entity to perform a function authorized by law.  The data also must be disclosed to a government entity or any person for prevailing wage purposes.

T. When a continuing contract teacher is discharged immediately because the teacher’s license has been revoked due to a conviction for child abuse or sexual offenses involving a child as set forth in Minnesota Statutes, section 122A.40, subdivision 13(b), or when the Commissioner of the MDE makes a final determination of child maltreatment involving a teacher under Minnesota Statues, section 260E.21, subdivision 4 or 260E.35, the school principal or other person having administrative control of the school must include in the teacher’s employment record the information contained in the record of the disciplinary action or the final maltreatment determination, consistent with the definition of public data under Minnesota Statutes, section 13.41, subdivision. 5, and must provide PELSB and the licensing division at MDE with the necessary and relevant information to enable  PELSB and MDE’s licensing division to fulfill their statutory and administrative duties related to issuing, renewing, suspending, or revoking a teacher’s license.  In addition to the background check required under Minnesota Statutes, section 123B.03, a school board or other school hiring authority must contact PELSB and MDE to determine whether the teacher’s license has been suspended or revoked, consistent with the discharge and final maltreatment determinations.  Unless restricted by federal or state data practices law or by the terms of a collective bargaining agreement, the responsible authority for a school district must disseminate to another school district private personnel data on a current or former teacher (employee or contractor) of the district, including the results of background investigations, if the requesting school district seeks the information because the subject of the data has applied for employment with the requesting school district.

VI. MULTIPLE CLASSIFICATIONS

If data on individuals are classified as both private and confidential by Minnesota Statutes Chapter 13, or any other state or federal law, the data are private.

VII. CHANGE IN CLASSIFICATIONS

The school district shall change the classification of data in its possession if it is required to do so to comply with either judicial or administrative rules pertaining to the conduct of legal actions or with a specific statute applicable to the data in the possession of the disseminating or receiving agency.

VIII. RESPONSIBLE AUTHORITY

The school district has designated Renee Corneille, Superintendent, 612-706-1150 as the authority responsible for personnel data.  

The responsible authority, or a school district employee if so designated, shall serve as the school district’s data practices compliance official and, as such, shall be the employee to whom persons may direct questions or concerns regarding problems in obtaining access to data or other data practices problems.

IX. EMPLOYEE AUTHORIZATION/RELEASE FORM

An employee authorization form is included as an addendum to this policy.

Legal References: Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act)

Minn. Stat. § 13.02 (Definitions)

Minn. Stat. § 13.03 (Access to Government Data)

Minn. Stat. § 13.05 (Duties of Responsible Authority) 

Minn. Stat. § 13.37 (General Nonpublic Data)

Minn. Stat. § 13.39 (Civil Investigation Data)

Minn. Stat. § 13.41 (Licensing Data – Public Data)

Minn. Stat. § 13.43 (Personnel Data)

Minn. Stat. § 13.601, subd. 3 (Applicants for Employment)

Minn. Stat. § 15.0597 (Appointment to Multimember Agencies)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.20, subd. 2 (Mandatory Reporting)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.40, subds. 13 and 16 (Employment; Contracts; Termination)

Minn. Stat. § 123B.03 (Background Check)

Minn. Stat. § 123B.143, subd. 2 (Disclose Past Buyouts)

Minn. Stat. Ch. 179 (Minnesota Labor Relations Act)

Minn. Stat. Ch. 179A (Minnesota Public Labor Relations Act)

Minn. Stat. § 253B.07(Judicial Commitment: Preliminary Procedures)

Minn. Stat. Ch. 260E (Reporting of Maltreatment of Minors)

Minn. Stat. Ch. 268 (Unemployment Insurance)

Minn. R. Pt. 1205 (Data Practices)

P.L. 104-191 (HIPAA)

45 C.F.R. Parts 160, 162 and 164 (HIPAA Regulations)

Cross References: MSBA/MASA Model Policy 206 (Public Participation in School Board Meetings/Complaints about Persons at School Board Meetings and Data Privacy Considerations)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 515 (Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 722 (Public Data Requests)

MSBA Law Bulletin “I” (School Records – Privacy – Access to Data)

***CONSENT TO RELEASE DATA (POLICY FORM 406) - REQUEST FROM AN INDIVIDUAL FORM MUST BE INCLUDED AT THE END OF THIS POLICY.  ***

Policy 406

Adopted: November 3, 2009 Revised: December 6, 2022

407 EMPLOYEE RIGHT TO KNOW – EXPOSURE TO HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide school district employees a place of employment and conditions of employment free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious injury or harm.  (Minn. Stat. § 182.653, Subd. 2)

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The policy of this school district is to provide information and training to employees who may be “routinely exposed” to a hazardous substance, harmful physical agent, infectious agent, or blood borne pathogen.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Commissioner” means the Minnesota Commissioner of Labor and Industry.

B. “Routinely exposed” means that there is a reasonable potential for exposure during the normal course of assigned work or when an employee is assigned to work in an area where a hazardous substance has been spilled.

C. “Hazardous substance” means a chemical or substance, or mixture of chemicals and substances, which:

     1. is regulated by the Federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration under the Code of Federal Regulations; or

     2. is either toxic or highly toxic; an irritant; corrosive; a strong oxidizer; a strong sensitizer; combustible; either flammable or        extremely flammable; dangerously reactive; pyrophoric; pressure-generating; compressed gas; carcinogen; teratogen; mutagen; reproductive toxic agent; or that otherwise, according to generally accepted documented medical or scientific evidence, may cause substantial acute or chronic personal injury or illness during or as a direct result of any customary or reasonably foreseeable accidental or intentional exposure to the chemical or substance; or

     3. is determined by the commissioner as a part of the standard for the chemical or substance or mixture of chemicals and substances to present a significant risk to worker health and safety or imminent danger of death or serious physical harm to an employee as a result of foreseeable use, handling, accidental spill, exposure, or contamination.

D. “Harmful physical agent” means a physical agent determined by the commissioner as a part of the standard for that agent to present a significant risk to worker health or safety or imminent danger of death or serious physical harm to an employee.  This definition includes, but is not limited to, radiation, whether ionizing or nonionizing.

E. “Infectious agent” means a communicable bacterium, rickettsia, parasites, virus, or fungus determined by the commissioner by rule, with approval of the commissioner of health, which, according to documented medical or scientific evidence, causes substantial acute or chronic illness or permanent disability as a foreseeable and direct result of any routine exposure to the infectious agent.  Infectious agent does not include an agent in or on the body of a patient before diagnosis.

F. “Blood borne pathogen” means a pathogenic microorganism that is present in human blood and can cause disease in humans.  This definition includes, but is not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

IV. TARGET JOB CATEGORIES

Annual training will be provided to all full- and part-time employees who are “routinely exposed” to a hazardous substance, harmful physical agent, infectious agent, or blood borne pathogen as set forth above.

V. TRAINING SCHEDULE

Training will be provided to employees before beginning a job assignment as follows:

A. Any newly hired employee assigned to a work area where he or she is determined to be “routinely exposed” under the guidelines above.

B. Any employee reassigned to a work area where he or she is determined to be “routinely exposed” under the above guidelines.
 

Legal References: Minn. Stat. Ch. 182 (Occupational Safety and Health)

Minn. Rules Ch. 5205 (Safety and Health Standards)

Minn. Rules Ch. 5206 (Employee Right to Know Standards)

29 C.F.R. § 1910.1050, App. B (Substance Technical Guidelines)

Cross References: MSBA/MASA Model Policy 420 (Students and Employees with Sexually Transmitted Infections and Diseases and Certain Other Communicable Diseases and Infectious Conditions)  MSBA/MASA Model Policy 807 (Health and Safety Policy)

Adopted: November 3, 2009 Revised:

408 SUBPOENA OF A SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEE

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to protect the privacy rights of school district employees and students under both state and federal law when requested to testify or provide educational records for a judicial or administrative proceeding.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

This policy is to provide guidance and direction for school district employees who may be subpoenaed to testify and/or provide educational records for a judicial or administrative proceeding.

III. DATA CLASSIFICATION

A. Educational Data

1. State Law

The Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA), Minn. Stat. Ch. 13, classifies all educational data, except for directory information as designated by the school district, as private data on individuals. The state statute provides that private data on individuals may not be released, except pursuant to a valid court order or informed consent by the subject of the data or a parent if the subject of the data is a minor.

2. Federal Law

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C. § 1232g, provides that educational data may not be released, except pursuant to informed consent by the individual subject of the data or any lawfully issued subpoena. Regulations promulgated under the federal law require that the school district must first make a reasonable effort to notify the parent of the student, or the student if the student is 18 years of age or older, of the subpoena in advance of releasing the information pursuant to the subpoena.

B. Personnel Data

The MGDPA, Minn. Stat. Ch. 13, also classifies all personnel data, except for certain data specifically classified as public, as private data on individuals. The state statute provides that private data on individuals may not be released, except pursuant to a valid court order or informed consent by the subject of the data.

IV. APPLICATION AND PROCEDURES

A. Any employee who receives a subpoena for any purpose related to employment is to inform the building administrator or designated supervisor when the employee receives the subpoena. The building administrator or designated supervisor shall immediately inform the superintendent that the employee has received a subpoena.

B. No employee may release educational data, personnel data, or any other data of any kind without consultation in advance with the school district official who is designated as the authority responsible for the collection, use and dissemination of data.

C. Payment for attendance at judicial or administrative proceedings and the retention of witness and mileage fees is to be determined in accordance with the applicable school board policies and collective bargaining agreements.

D. The administration shall not release any information except in strict compliance with state and federal law and this policy. Recognizing that an unauthorized release may expose the school district or its employees to civil or criminal penalties or loss of employment, the administration shall confer with school district legal counsel prior to release of such data.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act)
Minn. Rules 1205.0100, Subp. 5 (Minnesota Rules Regarding Data Practices)
20 U.S.C. § 1232g (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 211 (Criminal or Civil Action Against School District, School Board Member, Employee, or Student)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 515 (Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records)
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 13, School Law Bulletin “I” (School Records – Privacy – Access to Data)

Policy408.pdf

Adopted: November 3, 2009 Revised: December 6, 2022

409 EMPLOYEE PUBLICATIONS, INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS, INVENTIONS, AND CREATIONS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to identify and reserve the proprietary rights of the school district to certain publications, instructional materials, inventions, and creations which employees may develop or create, or assist in developing or creating, while employed by the school district.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

Unless the employee develops, creates or assists in developing or creating a publication, instructional material, computer program, invention or creation entirely on the employee’s own time and without the use of any school district facilities or equipment, the employee shall immediately disclose and, on demand of the school district, assign any rights to publications, instructional materials, computer programs, materials posted on websites, inventions or creations which the employee develops or creates or assists in developing or creating during the term of employee’s employment and for five years thereafter. In addition, employees shall sign such documents and perform such other acts as may be necessary to secure the rights of the school district relating to such publications, instructional materials, computer programs, materials posted on websites, inventions and/or creations, including domestic and foreign patents and copyrights.

III. NOTICE OF POLICY

The school district shall give employees notice of this policy by such means as are reasonably likely to inform them of this policy.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 181.78 (Agreements; Terms Relating to Inventions)
17 U.S.C. § 101 et seq. (Copyrights)

Reviewed and adopted October 4, 2022

410 FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE POLICY

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide for family and medical leave to school district employees in accordance with the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) and also with parenting leave under state law.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The following procedures and policies regarding family and medical leave are adopted by the school district, pursuant to the requirements of the FMLA and consistent with the requirements of the Minnesota parenting leave laws.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Covered active duty” means:

1. in the case of a member of a regular component of the Armed Forces, duty during the deployment of the member with the Armed Forces to a foreign country; and

2. in the case of a member of a reserve component of the Armed Forces, duty during the deployment of the member with the Armed Forces to a foreign country under a call or order to active duty under a provision of law referred to in 10 U.S.C. § 101(a)(13)(B).

B. “Covered servicemember” means:

1. a member of the Armed Forces, including a member of the National Guard or Reserves, who is undergoing medical treatment, recuperation, or therapy, is otherwise in outpatient status, or is otherwise on the temporary disability retired list, for a serious injury or illness; or

2. a covered veteran who is undergoing medical treatment, recuperation, or therapy for a serious injury or illness and who was a member of the Armed Forces, including a member of the National Guard or Reserves, and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable, at any time during the period of five years preceding the first date on which the eligible employee takes FMLA leave to care for the covered veteran.

C. “Eligible employee” means: 

an employee who has been employed by the school district for a total of at least 12 months and who has been employed for at least 1,250 hours of service during the 12-month period immediately preceding the commencement of the leave. An employee returning from fulfilling his or her Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)- covered service obligation shall be credited with the hours of service that would have been performed but for the period of absence from work due to or necessitated by USERRA-covered service. In determining whether the employee met the hours of service requirement, and to determine the hours that would have been worked during the period of absence from work due to or necessitated by USERRA-covered service, the employee’s pre-service work schedule can generally be used for calculations. While the 12 months of employment need not be consecutive, employment periods prior to a break in service of seven years or more may not be counted unless the break is occasioned by the employee’s fulfillment of his or her USERRA-covered service obligation, National Guard or Reserve military service obligation or a written agreement, including a collective bargaining agreement, exists concerning the school district’s intention to rehire the employee after the break in service.

D. “Military caregiver leave” means: 

leave taken to care for a covered servicemember with a serious injury or illness.

E. “Next of kin of a covered servicemember” means the nearest blood relative other than the covered servicemember’s spouse, parent, son, or daughter, in the following order of priority: blood relatives who have been granted legal custody of the covered servicemember by court decree or statutory provisions, brothers and sisters, grandparents, aunts and uncles, and first cousins, unless the covered servicemember has specifically designated in writing another blood relative as his or her nearest blood relative for purposes of military caregiver leave under the FMLA. When no such designation is made and there are multiple family members with the same level of relationship to the covered servicemember, all such family members shall be considered the covered servicemember’s next of kin, and the employee may take FMLA leave to provide care to the covered servicemember, either consecutively or simultaneously. When such designation has been made, the designated individual shall be deemed to be the covered servicemember’s only next of kin.

F. “Outpatient status” means, with respect to a covered servicemember who is a current member of the Armed Forces, the status of a member of the Armed Forces assigned to:

1. a military medical treatment facility as an outpatient; or

2. a unit established for the purpose of providing command and control of members of the Armed Forces receiving care as outpatients.

G. “Qualifying exigency” means a situation where the eligible employee seeks leave for one or more of the following reasons:

1. to address any issues that arise from a short-notice deployment (seven calendar days or less) of a covered military member;

2. to attend military events and related activities of a covered military member;

3. to address issues related to childcare and school activities of a covered military member’s child;

4. to address financial and legal arrangements for a covered military member;

5. to attend counseling provided by someone other than a health care provider for oneself, a covered military member, or his/her child;

6. to spend up to fifteen (15) calendar days with a covered military member who is on short-term, temporary rest and recuperation leave during a period of deployment;

7. to attend post-deployment activities related to a covered military member;

8. to address parental care needs; and

9. to address other events related to a covered military member that both the employee and school district agree is a qualifying exigency.

H. “Serious health condition” means an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition that involves:

1. inpatient care in a hospital, hospice, or residential medical care facility; or

2. continuing treatment by a health care provider.

I. “Spouse” means a husband or wife. For purposes of this definition, husband or wife refers to the other person with whom an individual entered into marriage as defined or recognized under state law for purposes of marriage in the state in which the marriage was entered into or, in the case of a marriage entered into outside of any state, if the marriage is valid in the place where entered into and could have been entered into in at least one state. This definition includes an individual in a same-sex or common law marriage that either: (1) was entered into in a state that recognizes such marriages; or (2) if entered into outside of any state, is valid in the place where entered into and could have been entered into in at least one state.

J. “Veteran” has the meaning given in 38 U.S.C. § 101.

IV. LEAVE ENTITLEMENT

A. Twelve-week Leave under Federal Law

1. Eligible employees are entitled to a total of 12 work weeks of unpaid family or medical leave during the applicable 12-month period as defined below, plus any additional leave as required by law. Leave may be taken for one or more of the following reasons in accordance with applicable law:

a. birth of the employee’s child and to care for such child;

b. placement of an adopted or foster child with the employee;

c. to care for the employee’s spouse, son, daughter, or parent with a serious health condition;

d. the employee’s serious health condition makes the employee unable to perform the functions of the employee’s job; and/or

e. any qualifying exigency arising from the employee’s spouse, son, daughter, or parent being on covered active duty, or notified of an impending call or order to covered active duty in the Armed Forces.

2. For the purposes of this policy, “year” is defined as a rolling 12-month period measured backward from the date an employee’s leave is to commence.

3. An employee’s entitlement to FMLA leave for the birth, adoption, or foster care of a child expires at the end of the 12-month period beginning on the date of the birth or placement.

4. A “serious health condition” typically requires either inpatient care or continuing treatment by or under the supervision of a health care provider, as defined by applicable law. Family and medical leave generally is not intended to cover short-term conditions for which treatment and recovery are very brief.

5. A “serious injury or illness,” in the case of a member of the Armed Forces, including a member of the National Guard or Reserves, means:

a. injury or illness that was incurred by the member in the line of duty on active duty in the Armed Forces or that existed before the beginning of the member’s active duty and was aggravated by service in the line of duty on active duty in the Armed Forces and that may render the member medically unfit to perform the duties of the member’s office, grade, rank, or rating; and

b. in the case of a covered veteran who was a member of the Armed Forces, including a member of the National Guard or Reserves, at any time, during the period of five years preceding the date on which the veteran undergoes the medical treatment, recuperation, or therapy, means a qualifying injury or illness that was incurred by the member in the line of duty on active duty in the Armed Forces or that existed before the beginning of the member’s active duty and was aggravated by service in the line of duty in the Armed Forces and that manifested itself before or after the member became a veteran, and is:

(i) a continuation of a serious injury or illness that was incurred or aggravated when the covered veteran was a member of the Armed Forces and rendered the servicemember unable to perform the duties of the servicemember’s office, grade, rank, or rating; or

(ii) a physical or mental condition for which the covered veteran has received a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Service-Related Disability (VASRD) rating of 50 percent or greater and such VASRD rating is based, in whole or in part, on the condition precipitating the need for military caregiver leave; or

(iii) a physical or mental condition that substantially impairs the covered veteran’s ability to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation by reason of a disability or disabilities related to military service, or would do so absent treatment; or

(iv) an injury, including a psychological injury, on the basis of which the covered veteran has been enrolled in the Department of Veterans Affairs Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.

6. Eligible spouses employed by the school district are limited to an aggregate of 12 weeks of leave during any 12-month period for the birth and care of a newborn child or adoption of a child, the placement of a child for foster care, or to care for a parent. This limitation for spouses employed by the school district does not apply to leave taken: by one spouse to care for the other spouse who is seriously ill; to care for a child with a serious health condition; because of the employee’s own serious health condition; or pursuant to Paragraph IV.A.1.e. above.

7. Depending on the type of leave, intermittent or reduced schedule leave may be granted in the discretion of the school district or when medically necessary. However, part-time employees are only eligible for a pro-rata portion of leave to be used on an intermittent or reduced schedule basis, based on their average hours worked per week. Where an intermittent or reduced schedule leave is foreseeable based on planned medical treatment, the school district may transfer the employee temporarily to an available alternative position for which the employee is qualified and which better accommodates recurring periods of leave than does the employee’s regular position, and which has equivalent pay and benefits.

8. If an employee requests a leave for the serious health condition of the employee or the employee’s spouse, child, or parent, the employee will be required to submit sufficient medical certification. In such a case, the employee must submit the medical certification within 15 days from the date of the request or as soon as practicable under the circumstances.

9. If the school district has reason to doubt the validity of a health care provider’s certification, it may require a second opinion at the school district’s expense. If the opinions of the first and second health care providers differ, the school district may require certification from a third health care provider at the school district’s expense. An employee may also be required to present a certification from a health care provider indicating that the employee is able to return to work.

10. Requests for leave shall be made to the school district. When leave relates to an employee’s spouse, son, daughter, parent, or covered servicemember being on covered active duty, or notified of an impending call or order to covered active duty pursuant to Paragraph IV.A.1.e. above, and such leave is foreseeable, the employee shall provide reasonable and practical notice to the school district of the need for leave. For all other leaves, employees must give 30 days’ written notice of a leave of absence where practicable. The failure to provide the required notice may result in a delay of the requested leave. Employees are expected to make a reasonable effort to schedule leaves resulting from planned medical treatment so as not to disrupt unduly the operations of the school district, subject to and in coordination with the health care provider.

11. The school district may require that a request for leave under Paragraph IV.A.1.e. above be supported by a copy of the covered military member’s active duty orders or other documentation issued by the military indicating active duty or a call to active duty status and the dates of active duty service. In addition, the school district may require the employee to provide sufficient certification supporting the qualifying exigency for which leave is requested.

12. During the period of a leave permitted under this policy, the school district will provide health insurance under its group health plan under the same conditions coverage would have been provided had the employee not taken the leave. The employee will be responsible for payment of the employee contribution to continue group health insurance coverage during the leave. An employee’s failure to make necessary and timely contributions may result in termination of coverage. An employee who does not return to work after the leave may be required, in some situations, to reimburse the school district for the cost of the health plan premiums paid by it.

13. The school district may request or require the employee to substitute accrued paid leave for any part of the 12-week period. Employees may be allowed to substitute paid leave for unpaid leave by meeting the requirements set out in the administrative directives and guidelines established for the implementation of this policy, if any. Employees eligible for leave must comply with the family and medical leave directives and guidelines prior to starting leave. The superintendent shall be responsible to develop directives and guidelines as necessary to implement this policy. Such directives and guidelines shall be submitted to the school board for annual review. The school district shall comply with written notice requirements as set forth in federal regulations. An employee who misses three consecutive days of work due to illness or an employee who notifies the District Payroll and Benefits Clerk of a qualifying family illness will be sent FMLA paperwork to begin the FMLA process.

14. Employees returning from a leave permitted under this policy are eligible for reinstatement in the same or an equivalent position as provided by law. However, the employee has no greater right to reinstatement or to other benefits and conditions of employment than if the employee had been continuously employed during the leave.

B. Twelve-week Leave under State Law

An employee who does not qualify for parenting leave under Paragraphs IV.A.1.a. or IV.A.1.b. above may qualify for a 12-week unpaid leave which is available to a biological or adoptive parent in conjunction with the birth or adoption of a child, or to a female employee for prenatal care or incapacity due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related health conditions. The length of the leave shall be determined by the employee but must not exceed 12 weeks unless agreed to by the school district. The employee may qualify if he or she has worked for the school district for at least 12 months and has worked an average number of hours per week equal to one-half of the full time equivalent during the 12 month period immediately preceding the leave. This leave is separate and exclusive of the family and medical leave described in the preceding paragraphs but may be reduced by any period of paid parental, disability, personal or medical, or sick leave or accrued vacation provided by the school district so that the total leave does not exceed 12 weeks, unless agreed to by the school district , or leave taken for the same purpose under FMLA. The leave taken under this section shall begin at a time requested by the employee. An employee who plans to take leave under this section must give the school district reasonable notice of the date the leave shall commence and the estimated duration of the leave. For leave taken by a biological or adoptive parent in conjunction with the birth or adoption of a child, the leave must begin within 12 months of the birth or adoption; except that, in the case where the child must remain in the hospital longer than the mother, the leave must begin within 12 months after the child leaves the hospital.

C. Twenty-six-week Servicemember Family Military Leave

1. An eligible employee who is the spouse, son, daughter, parent, or next of kin of a covered servicemember shall be entitled to a total of 26 work weeks of leave during a 12-month period to care for the servicemember. The leave described in this paragraph shall be available only during a single 12-month period. For purposes of this leave, the need to care for a servicemember includes both physical and psychological care.

2. During a single 12-month period, an employee shall be entitled to a combined total of 26 work weeks of leave under Paragraphs IV.A. and IV.C. above.

3. The 12-month period referred to in this section begins on the first day the eligible employee takes leave to care for a covered servicemember and ends 12 months after that date.

4. Eligible spouses employed by the school district are limited to an aggregate of 26 weeks of leave during any 12-month period if leave is taken for birth of the employee’s child or to care for the child after birth; for placement of a child with the employee for adoption or foster care or to care for the child after placement; to care for the employee’s parent with a serious health condition; or to care for a covered servicemember with a serious injury or illness.

5. The school district may request or require the employee to substitute accrued paid leave for any part of the 26-week period. Employees may be allowed to substitute paid leave for unpaid leave by meeting the requirements set out in the administrative directives and guidelines established for the implementation of this policy, if any. Employees eligible for leave must comply with the family and medical leave directives and guidelines prior to starting leave.

6. An employee will be required to submit sufficient medical certification issued by the health care provider of the covered servicemember and other information in support of requested leave and eligibility for such leave under this section within 15 days from the date of the request or as soon as practicable under the circumstances.

7. The provisions of Paragraphs IV.A.7., IV.A.10., IV.A.12., IV.A.13., and IV.A.14. above shall apply to leaves under this section.

V. SPECIAL RULES FOR INSTRUCTIONAL EMPLOYEES

A. An instructional employee is one whose principal function is to teach and instruct students in a class, a small group, or an individual setting. This includes, but is not limited to, teachers, coaches, driver’s education instructors, and special education assistants.

B. Instructional employees who request foreseeable medically necessary intermittent or reduced work schedule leave greater than 20 percent of the work days in the leave period may be required to:

1. take leave for the entire period or periods of the planned medical treatment; or

2. move to an available alternative position for which the employee is qualified, and which provides equivalent pay and benefits, but not necessarily equivalent duties.

C. Instructional employees who request continuous leave near the end of a semester may be required to extend the leave through the end of the semester. The number of weeks remaining before the end of a semester does not include scheduled school breaks, such as summer, winter, or spring break.

1. If an instructional employee begins leave for any purpose more than five weeks before the end of a semester and it is likely the leave will last at least three weeks, the school district may require that the leave be continued until the end of the semester.

2. If the instructional employee begins leave for a purpose other than the employee’s own serious health condition during the last five weeks of a semester, the school district may require that the leave be continued until the end of the semester if the leave will last more than two weeks or if the employee’s return from leave would occur during the last two weeks of the semester.

3. If the instructional employee begins leave for a purpose other than the employee’s own serious health condition during the last three weeks of the semester and the leave will last more than five working days, the school district may require the employee to continue taking leave until the end of the semester.

4. If the school district requires an instructional employee to extend leave through the end of a semester as set forth in this paragraph, only the period of leave until the employee is ready and able to return to work shall be charged against the employee's FMLA leave entitlement. Any additional leave required by the school district to the end of the school term is not counted as FMLA leave but as an unpaid or paid leave, to the extent the instructional employee has accrued paid leave available and the school district shall maintain the employee's group health insurance and restore the employee to the same or equivalent job, including other benefits, at the conclusion of the leave.

D. The entire period of leave taken under the special rules will be counted as leave. The school district will continue to fulfill the school district’s leave responsibilities and obligations, including the obligation to continue the employee’s health insurance and other benefits, if an instructional employee’s leave entitlement ends before the involuntary leave period expires.

VI. OTHER

A. The provisions of this policy are intended to comply with applicable law, including the FMLA and applicable regulations. Any terms used from the FMLA will have the same meaning as defined by the FMLA and/or applicable regulations. To the extent that this policy is ambiguous or contradicts applicable law, the language of the applicable law will prevail.

B. The requirements stated in the collective bargaining agreement between employees in a certified collective bargaining unit and the school district regarding family and medical leaves (if any) shall be followed.

VII. DISSEMINATION OF POLICY

A. A poster prepared by the U.S. Department of Labor summarizing the major provisions of the Family and Medical Leave Act and informing employees how to file a complaint shall be conspicuously posted in each school district building in areas accessible to employees and applicants for employees.

B. This policy will be reviewed at least annually for compliance with state and federal law.

Legal References

Cross References

MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 13, School Law Bulletin “M” (Statutory Provisions Which Grant Leaves to Licensed as well as Non-Licensed School District Employees)

Policy 410

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 412
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2008, 2017
Adopted February 21, 2017

412 EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to identify school district business expenses that involve initial payment by an employee and qualify for reimbursement from the school district, and to specify the manner by which the employee seeks reimbursement.

II. AUTHORIZATION

All school district business expenses to be reimbursed must be approved by the supervising administrator. Such expenses to be reimbursed may include transportation, meals, lodging, registration fees, required materials, parking fees, tips, and other reasonable and necessary school district business-related expenses.

III. REIMBURSEMENT

A. Requests for reimbursement must be itemized on the official school district form and are to be submitted to the designated administrator. Receipts for lodging, commercial transportation, registration, and other reasonable and necessary expenses must be attached to the reimbursement form.

B. Automobile travel shall be reimbursed at the mileage rate set by the school board. Commercial transportation shall reflect economy fares and shall be reimbursed only for the actual cost of the trip.

IV. AIRLINE TRAVEL CREDIT

A. Employees utilizing school district funds to pay for airline travel are required to ensure that any credits or other benefits issued by any airline accrue to the benefit of the school district rather than the employee.

1. To the extent an airline will not honor a transfer or assignment of credit or benefit from the employee to the school district, the employee shall report receipt of the credit or benefit to the designated administrator within 90 days of receipt of the credit or benefit.

2. Reports of the receipt of an airline credit or benefit shall be made in writing and shall include verification from the airline as to the credit or benefit received. Reimbursement for airline travel expenses will not be made until such documentation is provided.

B. Employees who have existing credits or benefits issued by an airline based upon previously reimbursed airline travel for school district purposes will be required to utilize those credits or benefits toward any subsequent airline travel related to school district purposes, prior to reimbursement for such travel, to the extent permitted and/or feasible.

C. The requirements of this section apply to all airline travel, regardless of where or how the tickets are purchased.

V. ESTABLISHMENT OF DIRECTIVES AND GUIDELINES

Employees of Independent School District No. 282 will be reimbursed for actual expenses incurred while attending an authorized conference, convention, seminar, workshop, or meeting. Reimbursement for actual expense will be made in accordance with the following:

A. Travel

1. Commercial air fare at the lowest rate available, or lowest rate air fare in lieu of personal automobile mileage.

2. Personal automobile mileage, when approved in advance, as per employee contract or Board policy.

3. Mileage to and from the airport at the current IRS mileage rate.

B. Meals (Out-of-State)

1. Reimbursement for meal expenses, including tax and gratuity, shall be the actual cost of the meal, not to exceed $11.00 for breakfast, $12.00 for lunch, and $23.00 for dinner. The total, including incidentals, shall not exceed $51.00 per day. Receipts for all meals are required. When overnight travel includes a full day (from before a normal breakfast time to after the dinner hour) the traveler will be reimbursed for actual costs not to exceed the total daily meal rates. Alcoholic beverages are not reimbursable as part of the meal allowance. 

C. Meals (In-State)

1. Reimbursement for meal expenses in the Twin City Metropolitan Area will be made only when meals are part of a registration, or when they are in conjunction with an authorized activity.

2. Reimbursement for meal expenses, including tax and gratuity, are not to exceed $10.00 for breakfast, $11.00 for lunch, and $22.00 for dinner. The total shall not exceed $43.00 per day. Receipts for all meals are required.

D. Lodging

1. Reimbursement for lodging will be the actual cost of lodging for the employee when supported by a lodging statement.

2. Double occupancy with another District staff member is required when appropriate.

3. Lodging in the Twin Cities will be reimbursed only when the employee is supervising students as part of an approved activity, or when a particular situation makes it mandatory that the employee stays overnight.

E. Miscellaneous

1. Parking expenses incurred in conjunction with an approved activity will be reimbursed at the actual cost of parking. A receipt is required.

2. Registration fees incurred in conjunction with an approved activity will be reimbursed. A receipt is required.

3. Reimbursement for the cost of transportation to and from the airport and hotel/motel shall be the actual cost of the transportation. A receipt is required.

4. Attendance at meetings/conferences where accommodation packages are purchased (lodging, meals, fees, etc.) will be reimbursed at the actual cost of the package. A request for reimbursement of expenses must be submitted on forms provided by the Business Office. Payment will be made after approval by the School Board. In extenuating circumstances arrangements for deviation from this policy can be made with approval of the Superintendent prior to the travel.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 15.435 (Airline Travel Credit)
Minn. Stat. § 471.665 (Mileage Allowances) 
Minn. Op. Atty. Gen. 1035 (Aug. 23, 1999) (Retreat Expenses)
Minn. Op. Atty. Gen. 161b-12 (Aug. 4, 1997) (Transportation Expenses)
Minn. Op. Atty. Gen. 161B-12 (Jan. 24, 1989) (Operating Expenses of Car)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 214 (Out-of-State Travel by School Board Members.

Policy412.pdf

Revised and Adopted October 4, 2022

413 HARASSMENT AND VIOLENCE

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from harassment and violence on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, including gender identity or expression, or disability (Protected Class).

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The policy of the school district is to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from harassment and violence on the basis of Protected Class. The school district prohibits any form of harassment or violence on the basis of Protected Class .

B. A violation of this policy occurs when any student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel harasses a student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel or group of students, teachers, administrators, or other school district personnel through conduct or communication based on a person’s Protected Class as defined by this policy. (For purposes of this policy, school district personnel includes school board members, school employees, agents, volunteers, contractors, or persons subject to the supervision and control of the district.)

C. A violation of this policy occurs when any student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel inflicts, threatens to inflict, or attempts to inflict violence upon any student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel or group of students, teachers, administrators, or other school district personnel based on a person’s Protected Class.

D. The school district will act to investigate all complaints, either formal or informal, verbal or written, of harassment or violence based on a person’s Protected Class, and to discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel who is found to have violated this policy.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Assault” is:

1. an act done with intent to cause fear in another of immediate bodily harm or death;

2. the intentional infliction of or attempt to inflict bodily harm upon another; or

3. the threat to do bodily harm to another with present ability to carry out the threat.

B. “Harassment” prohibited by this policy consists of physical or verbal conduct, including, but not limited to, electronic communications, relating to an individual’s or group of individuals’ race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, including gender identity or expression, or disability when the conduct:

1. has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or academic environment;

2. has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or academic performance; or

3. otherwise adversely affects an individual’s employment or academic opportunities.

C. “Immediately” means as soon as possible but in no event longer than 24 hours.

D. Protected Classifications; Definitions

1. “Protected Class” includes race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, including gender identity or expression, or disability.

2. “Disability” means any condition or characteristic that renders a person a disabled person. A disabled person is any person who:

a. has a physical, sensory, or mental impairment which materially limits one or more major life activities of such individual;

b. has a record of such an impairment; or

c. is regarded as having such an impairment.

3. “Familial status” means the condition of one or more minors being domiciled with: their parent or parents or the minor’s legal guardian; or

a. the designee of the parent or parents or guardian with the written permission of the parent or parents or guardian. The protections afforded against harassment or discrimination on the basis of family status apply to any person who is pregnant or is in the process of securing legal custody of an individual who has not attained the age of majority.

4. “Marital status” means whether a person is single, married, remarried, divorced, separated, or a surviving spouse and, in employment cases, includes protection against harassment or discrimination on the basis of the identity, situation, actions, or beliefs of a spouse or former spouse.

5. “National origin” means the place of birth of an individual or of any of the individual’s lineal ancestors.

6. “Sex” includes, but is not limited to, pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth.

7. “Sexual orientation” means having or being perceived as having an emotional, physical, or sexual attachment to another person without regard to the sex of that person or having or being perceived as having an orientation for such attachment, or having or being perceived as having a self-image or identity not traditionally associated with one’s biological maleness or femaleness. “Sexual orientation” does not include a physical or sexual attachment to children by an adult.

8. “Status with regard to public assistance” means the condition of being a recipient of federal, state, or local assistance, including medical assistance, or of being a tenant receiving federal, state, or local subsidies, including rental assistance or rent supplements.

E. “Remedial response” means a measure to stop and correct acts of harassment or violence, prevent acts of harassment or violence from recurring, and protect, support, and intervene on behalf of a student who is the target or victim of acts of harassment or violence.

F. Sexual Harassment; Definition

1. Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct or other verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature when:

a. submission to that conduct or communication is made a term or condition, either explicitly or implicitly, of obtaining employment or an education; or

b. submission to or rejection of that conduct or communication by an individual is used as a factor in decisions affecting that individual’s employment or education; or that conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an individual’s employment or education, or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive employment or educational environment.

2. Sexual harassment may include, but is not limited to:

a. unwelcome verbal harassment or abuse;

b. unwelcome pressure for sexual activity;

c. unwelcome, sexually motivated, or inappropriate patting, pinching, or physical contact, other than necessary restraint of student(s) by teachers, administrators, or other school district personnel to avoid physical harm to persons or property;

d. unwelcome sexual behavior or words, including demands for sexual favors, accompanied by implied or overt threats concerning an individual’s employment or educational status;

e. unwelcome sexual behavior or words, including demands for sexual favors, accompanied by implied or overt promises of preferential treatment with regard to an individual’s employment or educational status; or

f. unwelcome behavior or words directed at an individual because of gender identity or expression.

G. Sexual Violence; Definition

1. Sexual violence is a physical act of aggression or force or the threat thereof that involves the touching of another’s intimate parts, or forcing a person to touch any person’s intimate parts. Intimate parts, as defined in Minnesota Statutes section § 609.341, includes the primary genital area, groin, inner thigh, buttocks, or breast, as well as the clothing covering these areas.

2. Sexual violence may include, but is not limited to:

a. touching, patting, grabbing, or pinching another person’s intimate parts, whether that person is of the same sex or the opposite sex;

b. coercing, forcing, or attempting to coerce or force the touching of anyone’s intimate parts;

c. coercing, forcing, or attempting to coerce or force sexual intercourse or a sexual act on another; or

d. threatening to force or coerce sexual acts, including the touching of intimate parts or intercourse, on another.

H. Violence; Definition Violence prohibited by this policy is a physical act of aggression or assault upon another or group of individuals because of, or in a manner reasonably related to an individual’s Protected Class

IV. REPORTING PROCEDURES

A. Any person who believes he or she has been the target or victim of harassment or violence on the basis of Protected Class by a student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel, or any person with knowledge or belief of conduct that may constitute harassment or violence prohibited by this policy toward a student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel or group of students, teachers, administrators, or other school district personnel should report the alleged acts immediately to an appropriate school district official designated by this policy. A person may report conduct which may constitute harassment or violence anonymously. However, the school district may not rely solely on an anonymous report to determine discipline or other remedial responses.

B. The school district encourages the reporting party or complainant to use the report form available from the principal or building supervisor of each building or available from the school district office, but oral reports shall be considered complaints as well.

C. Nothing in this policy shall prevent any person from reporting harassment or violence directly to a school district human rights officer or to the superintendent. If the complaint involves the building report taker, the complaint shall be made or filed directly with the superintendent or the school district human rights officer by the reporting party or complainant.

D. In Each School Building. The building principal, the principal’s designee, or the building supervisor (hereinafter the “building report taker”) is the person responsible for receiving oral or written reports of harassment or violence prohibited by this policy at the building level. Any adult school district personnel who receives a report of harassment or violence prohibited by this policy shall inform the building report taker immediately. If the complaint involves the building report taker, the complaint shall be made or filed directly with the superintendent or the school district human rights officer by the reporting party or complainant. The building report taker shall ensure that this policy and its procedures, practices, consequences, and sanctions are fairly and fully implemented and shall serve as a primary contact on policy and procedural matters.

E. A teacher, school administrator, volunteer, contractor, or other school employee shall be particularly alert to possible situations, circumstances, or events that might include acts of harassment or violence. Any such person who witnesses, observes, receives a report of, or has other knowledge or belief of conduct that may constitute harassment or violence shall make reasonable efforts to address and resolve the harassment or violence and shall inform the building report taker immediately. School district personnel who fail to inform the building report taker of conduct that may constitute harassment or violence or who fail to make reasonable efforts to address and resolve the harassment or violence in a timely manner may be subject to disciplinary action.

F. Upon receipt of a report, the building report taker must notify the school district human rights officer immediately, without screening or investigating the report. The building report taker may request, but may not insist upon, a written complaint. A written statement of the facts alleged will be forwarded as soon as practicable by the building report taker to the human rights officer. If the report was given verbally, the building report taker shall personally reduce it to written form within 24 hours and forward it to the human rights officer. Failure to forward any harassment or violence report or complaint as provided herein may result in disciplinary action against the building report taker.

G. In the District. The school board hereby designates Wendy Webster wwebster@stanthony.k12.mn.us, 612-706-1170 3301 Silver Lake Road St. Anthony, MN 55418 as the school district human rights officer(s) to receive reports or complaints of harassment or violence prohibited by this policy. If the complaint involves a human rights officer, the complaint shall be filed directly with the superintendent.

In some school districts the superintendent may be the human rights officer. If so, an alternative individual should be designated by the school board.

H. The school district shall conspicuously post the name of the human rights officer(s), including mailing addresses and telephone numbers.

I. Submission of a good faith complaint or report of harassment or violence prohibited by this policy will not affect the complainant or reporter’s future employment, grades, work assignments, or educational or work environment.

J. Use of formal reporting forms is not mandatory.

K. Reports of harassment or violence prohibited by this policy are classified as private educational and/or personnel data and/or confidential investigative data and will not be disclosed except as permitted by law.

L. The school district will respect the privacy of the complainant(s), the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and the witnesses as much as possible, consistent with the school district’s legal obligations to investigate, to take appropriate action, and to comply with any discovery or disclosure obligations.

M. Retaliation against a victim, good faith reporter, or a witness of violence or harassment is prohibited.

N. False accusations or reports of violence or harassment against another person are prohibited.

O. A person who engages in an act of violence or harassment, reprisal, retaliation, or false reporting of violence or harassment, or permits, condones, or tolerates violence or harassment shall be subject to discipline or other remedial responses for that act in accordance with the school district’s policies and procedures.

Consequences for students who commit, or are a party to, prohibited acts of violence or harassment or who engage in reprisal or intentional false reporting may range from remedial responses or positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension and/or expulsion.

Consequences for employees who permit, condone, or tolerate violence or harassment or engage in an act of reprisal or intentional false reporting of violence or harassment may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination or discharge.

Consequences for other individuals engaging in prohibited acts of violence or harassment may include, but not be limited to, exclusion from school district property and events and/or termination of services and/or contracts.

V. INVESTIGATION

A. By authority of the school district, the human rights officer, within three (3) days of the receipt of a report or complaint alleging harassment or violence prohibited by this policy, shall undertake or authorize an investigation. The investigation may be conducted by school district officials or by a third party designated by the school district.

B. The investigation may consist of personal interviews with the complainant, the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and others who may have knowledge of the alleged incident(s) or circumstances giving rise to the complaint. The investigation may also consist of any other methods and documents deemed pertinent by the investigator.

C. In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes a violation of this policy, the school district should consider the surrounding circumstances, the nature of the behavior, past incidents or past or continuing patterns of behavior, the relationships between the parties involved, and the context in which the alleged incidents occurred. Whether a particular action or incident constitutes a violation of this policy requires a determination based on all the facts and surrounding circumstances.

D. In addition, the school district may take immediate steps, at its discretion, to protect the target or victim, the complainant, and students, teachers, administrators, or other school district personnel pending completion of an investigation of alleged harassment or violence prohibited by this policy.

E. The alleged perpetrator of the act(s) of harassment or violence shall be allowed the opportunity to present a defense during the investigation or prior to the imposition of discipline or other remedial responses.

F. The investigation will be completed as soon as practicable. The school district human rights officer shall make a written report to the superintendent upon completion of the investigation. If the complaint involves the superintendent, the report may be filed directly with the school board. The report shall include a determination of whether the allegations have been substantiated as factual and whether they appear to be violations of this policy.

VI. SCHOOL DISTRICT ACTION

A. Upon completion of an investigation that determines a violation of this policy has occurred, the school district will take appropriate action. Such action may include, but is not limited to, warning, suspension, exclusion, expulsion, transfer, remediation, termination, or discharge. Disciplinary consequences will be sufficiently severe to try to deter violations and to appropriately discipline prohibited behavior. School district action taken for violation of this policy will be consistent with requirements of applicable collective bargaining agreements, Minnesota and federal law, and applicable school district policies and regulations.

B. The school district is not authorized to disclose to a victim private educational or personnel data regarding an alleged perpetrator who is a student or employee of the school district. School officials will notify the parent(s) or guardian(s) of targets or victims of harassment or violence and the parent(s) or guardian(s) of alleged perpetrators of harassment or violence who have been involved in a reported and confirmed harassment or violence incident of the remedial or disciplinary action taken, to the extent permitted by law.

C. In order to prevent or respond to acts of harassment or violence committed by or directed against a child with a disability, the school district shall, where determined appropriate by the child’s individualized education program (IEP) or Section 504 team, allow the child’s IEP or Section 504 plan to be drafted to address the skills and proficiencies the child needs as a result of the child’s disability to allow the child to respond to or not to engage in acts of harassment or violence.

VII. RIGHT TO ALTERNATIVE COMPLAINT PROCEDURES

These procedures do not deny the right of any individual to pursue other avenues of recourse which may include filing charges with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights or another state or federal agency, initiating civil action, or seeking redress under state criminal statutes and/or federal law.

VIII. HARASSMENT OR VIOLENCE AS ABUSE

A. Under certain circumstances, alleged harassment or violence may also be possible abuse under Minnesota law. If so, the duties of mandatory reporting under Minnesota Statutes chapter 260E may be applicable.

B. Nothing in this policy will prohibit the school district from taking immediate action to protect victims of alleged harassment, violence, or abuse.

IX. DISSEMINATION OF POLICY AND TRAINING

A. This policy shall be conspicuously posted throughout each school building in areas accessible to students and staff members.

B. This policy shall be given to each school district employee and independent contractor who regularly interacts with students at the time of initial employment with the school district.

C. This policy shall appear in the student handbook.

D. The school district will develop a method of discussing this policy with students and employees.

E. The school district may implement violence prevention and character development education programs to prevent and reduce policy violations. Such programs may offer instruction on character education including, but not limited to, character qualities such as attentiveness, truthfulness, respect for authority, diligence, gratefulness, self-discipline, patience, forgiveness, respect for others, peacemaking, resourcefulness, and/or sexual abuse prevention.

F. This policy shall be reviewed at least annually for compliance with state and federal law.

X. GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES

A. Refer to procedure 103.1- Grievance Procedure for Complaints of Discrimination

B. TITLE IX COORDINATOR

Policy 413

Access Harassment and Violence Reporting Form

Revised and Adopted October 4, 2022

414 MANDATED REPORTING OF CHILD NEGLECT OR PHYSICAL OR SEXUAL ABUSE

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to make clear the statutory requirements of school personnel to report suspected child neglect or physical or sexual abuse.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The policy of the school district is to fully comply with Minn. Stat. § 626.556 requiring school personnel to report suspected child neglect or physical or sexual abuse.

B. A violation of this policy occurs when any school personnel fails to immediately report instances of child neglect or physical or sexual abuse when the school personnel knows or has reason to believe a child is being neglected or physically or sexually abused or has been neglected or physically or sexually abused within the preceding three years.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Accidental” means a sudden, not reasonably foreseeable, and unexpected occurrence or event which:

1. is not likely to occur and could not have been prevented by exercise of due care; and

2. if occurring while a child is receiving services from a facility, happens when the facility and the employee or person providing services in the facility are in compliance with the laws and rules relevant to the occurrence of event.

B. “Child” means one under age 18 and, for purposes of Minn. Stat. Ch. 260C (Child Protection) and Minn. Stat. Ch. 260D (Child in Voluntary Foster Care for Treatment), includes an individual under age 21 who is in foster care pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 260C.451 (Foster Care Benefits Past Age 18).

C. “Immediately” means as soon as possible but in no event longer than 24 hours.

D. “Mandated reporter” means any school personnel who knows or has reason to believe a child is being maltreated or has been maltreated within the preceding three years.

E. "Mental injury" means an injury to the psychological capacity or emotional stability of a child as evidenced by an observable or substantial impairment in the child's ability to function within a normal range of performance and behavior with due regard to the child's culture.

F. “Neglect” means the commission or omission of any of the acts specified below, other than by accidental means:

1. failure by a person responsible for a child’s care to supply a child with necessary food, clothing, shelter, health care, medical care, or other care required for the child’s physical or mental health when reasonably able to do so, including a growth delay, which may be referred to as a failure to thrive, that has been diagnosed by a physician and is due to parental neglect;

2. failure to protect a child from conditions or actions that seriously endanger the child’s physical or mental health when reasonably able to do so; including a growth delay, which may be referred to as a failure to thrive, that has been diagnosed by a physician and is due to parental neglect;

3. failure to provide for necessary supervision or child care arrangements appropriate for a child after considering factors such as the child’s age, mental ability, physical condition, length of absence, or environment, when the child is unable to care for his or her own basic needs or safety or the basic needs or safety of another child in his or her care;

4. failure to ensure that a child is educated in accordance with state law, which does not include a parent’s refusal to provide his or her child with sympathomimetic medications;

5. prenatal exposure to a controlled substance used by the mother for a nonmedical purpose, as evidenced by withdrawal symptoms in the child at birth, results of a toxicology test performed on the mother at delivery or the child’s birth, or medical effects or developmental delays during the child’s first year of life that medically indicate prenatal exposure to a controlled substance or the presence of a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder;

6. medical neglect as defined by Minn. Stat. § 260C.007, Subd. 4, Clause (5);

7. chronic and severe use of alcohol or a controlled substance by a parent or person responsible for the care of the child that adversely affects the child’s basic needs and safety; or

8. emotional harm from a pattern of behavior which contributes to impaired emotional functioning of the child which may be demonstrated by a substantial and observable effect in the child’s behavior, emotional response, or cognition that is not within the normal range for the child’s age and stage of development, with due regard to the child’s culture.

Neglect does not occur solely because the child's parent, guardian, or other person responsible for the child's care in good faith selects and depends upon spiritual means or prayer for treatment or care of disease or remedial care of the child in lieu of medical care.

G. “Nonmaltreatment mistake” occurs when:

(1) at the time of the incident, the individual was performing duties identified in the center’s child care program plan required under Minn. Rules Part 9503.0045;  (2) the individual has not been determined responsible for a similar incident that resulted in a finding of maltreatment for at least seven years;  (3) the individual has not been determined to have committed a similar nonmaltreatment mistake under this paragraph for at least four years;  (4) any injury to a child resulting from the incident, if treated, is treated only with remedies that are available over the counter, whether ordered by a medical professional or not; and  (5) except for the period when the incident occurred, the facility and the individual providing services were both in compliance with all licensing requirements relevant to the incident. This definition only applies to child care centers licensed under Minn. Rules Ch. 9503.

H. "Person responsible for the child's care" means (1) an individual functioning within the family unit and having responsibilities for the care of the child such as a parent, guardian, or other person having similar care responsibilities, or (2) an individual functioning outside the family unit and having responsibilities for the care of the child such as a teacher, school administrator, other school employee or agent, or other lawful custodian of a child having either full-time or short-term care responsibilities including, but not limited to, day care, babysitting whether paid or unpaid, counseling, teaching, and coaching.

I. “Physical abuse” means any physical injury, mental injury, or threatened injury, inflicted by a person responsible for the child’s care other than by accidental means; or any physical or mental injury that cannot reasonably be explained by the child’s history of injuries or any aversive or deprivation procedures, or regulated interventions, that have not been authorized by Minn. Stat. § 125A.0942 or § 245.825.

Abuse does not include reasonable and moderate physical discipline of a child administered by a parent or legal guardian which does not result in an injury. Abuse does not include the use of reasonable force by a teacher, principal, or school employee as allowed by Minn. Stat. § 121A.582.

Actions which are not reasonable and moderate include, but are not limited to, any of the following:  (1) throwing, kicking, burning, biting, or cutting a child;  (2) striking a child with a closed fist;  (3) shaking a child under age three;  (4) striking or other actions which result in any nonaccidental injury to a child under 18 months of age;  (5) unreasonable interference with a child’s breathing;  (6) threatening a child with a weapon, as defined in Minn. Stat. § 609.02, Subd. 6;  (7) striking a child under age one on the face or head;  (8) striking a child who is at least age one but under age four on the face or head, which results in an injury;  (9) purposely giving a child poison, alcohol, or dangerous, harmful, or controlled substances which were not prescribed for the child by a practitioner, in order to control or punish the child, or giving the child other substances that substantially affect the child’s behavior, motor coordination, or judgment or that result in sickness or internal injury, or subject the child to medical procedures that would be unnecessary if the child were not exposed to the substances;  (10) unreasonable physical confinement or restraint not permitted under Minn. Stat. § 609.379 including, but not limited to, tying, caging, or chaining; or  (11) in a school facility or school zone, an act by a person responsible for the child’s care that is a violation under Minn. Stat. § 121A.58.

J. “Report” means any communication received by the local welfare agency, police department, county sheriff, or agency responsible for child protection pursuant to this section that describes neglect or physical or sexual abuse of a child and contains sufficient content to identify the child and any person believed to be responsible for the neglect or abuse, if known.

K. “School personnel” means professional employee or professional’s delegate of the school district who provides health, educational, social, psychological, law enforcement, or child care services. 

L. “Sexual abuse” means the subjection of a child by a person responsible for the child’s care, by a person who has a significant relationship to the child (as defined in Minn. Stat. § 609.341, Subd. 15), or by a person in a current or recent position of authority (as defined in Minn. Stat. § 609.341, Subd. 10) to any act which constitutes a violation of Minnesota statutes prohibiting criminal sexual conduct. Such acts include sexual penetration, sexual contact, solicitation of children to engage in sexual conduct, and communication of sexually explicit materials to children. Sexual abuse also includes any act involving a minor which constitutes a violation of Minnesota statutes prohibiting prostitution or use of a minor in a sexual performance. Sexual abuse includes all reports of known or suspected child sex trafficking involving a child who is identified as a victim of sex trafficking. Sexual abuse includes threatened sexual abuse which includes the status of a parent or household member who has committed a violation which requires registration under Minn. Stat. § 243.166, Subd. 1b(a) or (b) (Registration of Predatory Offenders).

M. “Threatened injury” means a statement, overt act, condition, or status that represents a substantial risk of physical or sexual abuse or mental injury. Threatened injury includes, but is not limited to, exposing a child to a person responsible for the child’s care who has subjected the child to, or failed to protect a child from, egregious harm, or a person whose parental rights were involuntarily terminated, been found palpably unfit, or one from whom legal and physical custody of a child has been involuntarily transferred to another.

IV. REPORTING PROCEDURES

A. A mandated reporter as defined herein shall immediately report the neglect or physical or sexual abuse, which he or she knows or has reason to believe is happening or has happened within the preceding three years, to the local welfare agency, police department, county sheriff, tribal social services, or tribal police department. The reporter will include his or her name and address in the report.

B. If the immediate report has been made orally, by telephone or otherwise, the oral report shall be followed by a written report within 72 hours (exclusive of weekends and holidays) to the appropriate police department, the county sheriff, local welfare agency, or agency responsible for assisting or investigating maltreatment. The written report shall identify the child, any person believed to be responsible for the abuse or neglect of the child if the person is known, the nature and extent of the abuse or neglect and the name and address of the reporter.

C. Regardless of whether a report is made, as soon as practicable after a school receives information regarding an incident that may constitute maltreatment of a child in a school facility, the school shall inform the parent, legal guardian, or custodian of the child that an incident has occurred and may constitute maltreatment of the child, when the incident occurred, and the nature of the conduct that may constitute maltreatment.

D. A mandated reporter who knows or has reason to know of the deprivation of parental rights or the kidnapping of a child shall report the information to the local police department or the county sheriff.

E. With the exception of a health care professional or a social service professional who is providing the woman with prenatal care or other health care services, a mandated reporter shall immediately report to the local welfare agency if the person knows or has reason to believe that a woman is pregnant and has used a controlled substance for a nonmedical purpose during the pregnancy, including, but not limited to, tetrahydrocannabinol, or has consumed alcoholic beverages during the pregnancy in any way that is habitual or excessive.

F. A person mandated by Minnesota law and this policy to report who fails to report may be subject to criminal penalties and/or discipline, up to and including termination of employment.

G. Submission of a good faith report under Minnesota law and this policy will not adversely affect the reporter’s employment, or the child’s access to school.

H. Any person who knowingly or recklessly makes a false report under the provisions of applicable Minnesota law or this policy shall be liable in a civil suit for any actual damages suffered by the person or persons so reported and for any punitive damages set by the court or jury, and the reckless making of a false report may result in discipline. The court may also award attorney’s fees.

V. INVESTIGATION

A. The responsibility for investigating reports of suspected neglect or physical or sexual abuse rests with the appropriate county, state, or local agency or agencies. The agency responsible for assessing or investigating reports of child maltreatment has the authority to interview the child, the person or persons responsible for the child’s care, the alleged perpetrator, and any other person with knowledge of the abuse or neglect for the purpose of gathering the facts, assessing safety and risk to the child, and formulating a plan. The investigating agency may interview the child at school. The interview may take place outside the presence of a school official. The investigating agency, not the school, is responsible for either notifying or withholding notification of the interview to the parent, guardian or person responsible for the child’s care. School officials may not disclose to the parent, legal custodian, or guardian the contents of the notification or any other related information regarding the interview until notified in writing by the local welfare or law enforcement agency that the investigation or assessment has been concluded.

B. When the investigating agency determines that an interview should take place on school property, written notification of intent to interview the child on school property will be received by school officials prior to the interview. The notification shall include the name of the child to be interviewed, the purpose of the interview, and a reference to the statutory authority to conduct an interview on school property.

C. Except where the alleged perpetrator is believed to be a school official or employee, the time and place, and manner of the interview on school premises shall be within the discretion of school officials, but the local welfare or law enforcement agency shall have the exclusive authority to determine who may attend the interview. The conditions as to time, place, and manner of the interview set by the school officials shall be reasonable and the interview shall be conducted not more than 24 hours after the receipt of the notification unless another time is considered necessary by agreement between the school officials and the local welfare or law enforcement agency. Every effort must be made to reduce the disruption of the educational program of the child, other students, or school employees when an interview is conducted on school premises.

D. Where the alleged perpetrator is believed to be a school official or employee, the school district shall conduct its own investigation independent of MDE and, if involved, the local welfare or law enforcement agency.

E. Upon request by MDE, the school district shall provide all requested data that are relevant to a report of maltreatment and are in the possession of a school facility, pursuant to an assessment or investigation of a maltreatment report of a student in school. The school district shall provide the requested data in accordance with the requirements of the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, Minn. Stat. Ch. 13, and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1232g.

VI. MAINTENANCE OF SCHOOL RECORDS CONCERNING ABUSE OR POTENTIAL ABUSE

A. When a local welfare or local law enforcement agency determines that a potentially abused or abused child should be interviewed on school property, written notification of the agency’s intent to interview on school property must be received by school officials prior to the interview. The notification shall include the name of the child to be interviewed, the purpose of the interview, and a reference to the statutory authority to conduct the interview. The notification shall be private data. School officials may not disclose to the parent, legal custodian, or guardian the contents of the notice or any other related information regarding the interview until notified in writing by the local welfare or law enforcement agency that the investigation has been concluded.

B. All records regarding a report of maltreatment, including any notification of intent to interview which was received by the school as described above in Paragraph A., shall be destroyed by the school only when ordered by the agency conducting the investigation or by a court of competent jurisdiction. 

VII. PHYSICAL OR SEXUAL ABUSE AS SEXUAL HARASSMENT OR VIOLENCE

Under certain circumstances, alleged physical or sexual abuse may also be sexual harassment or violence under Minnesota law and School Board Policy 413. If so, the duties relating to the reporting and investigation of such harassment or violence may be applicable.

VIII. DISSEMINATION OF POLICY AND TRAINING

A. This policy shall appear in school personnel handbooks.

B. The school district will develop a method of discussing this policy with school personnel.

C. This policy shall be reviewed at least annually for compliance with state law.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.58 (Corporal Punishment)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.582 (Student Discipline; Reasonable Force)
Minn. Stat. § 125A.0942 (Standards for Restrictive Procedures)
Minn. Stat. § 243.166, Subd. 1b(a)(b) (Registration of Predatory Offenders)
Minn. Stat. § 245.825 (Use of Aversive or Deprivation Procedures)
Minn. Stat. § 260C.007, Subd. 4, Clause (5) (Child in Need of Protection)
Minn. Stat. § 260C.451 (Foster Care Benefits Past Age 18)
Minn. Stat. Ch. 260D (Child in Voluntary Foster Care for Treatment)
Minn. Stat. § 609.02, Subd. 6 (Definitions – Dangerous Weapon)
Minn. Stat. § 609.341, Subd. 10 (Definitions – Position of Authority)
Minn. Stat. § 609.341, Subd. 15 (Definitions – Significant Relationship)
Minn. Stat. § 609.379 (Reasonable Force)
Minn. Stat. § 626.556 et seq. (Reporting of Maltreatment of Minors)
Minn. Stat. § 626.5561 (Reporting of Prenatal Exposure to Controlled Substances)
Minn. Rules Part 9503
Minn. Rules Part 9503.0045 20
U.S.C. § 1232g (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 415 (Mandated Reporting of Maltreatment of Vulnerable Adults)

Policy 414

Policy 414 Form

Revised and Adopted October 6, 2020

415 MANDATED REPORTING OF MALTREATMENT OF VULNERABLE ADULTS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to make clear the statutory requirements of school personnel to report suspected maltreatment of vulnerable adults.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The policy of the school district is to fully comply with Minn. Stat. § 626.557 requiring school personnel to report suspected maltreatment of vulnerable adults.

B. A violation of this policy occurs when any school personnel fails to report suspected maltreatment of vulnerable adults when the school personnel has reason to believe that a vulnerable adult is being or has been maltreated, or has knowledge that a vulnerable adult has sustained a physical injury which is not reasonably explained.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Abuse” means:

IV. REPORTING PROCEDURES

A. A mandated reporter as defined herein shall immediately report the suspected maltreatment to the common entry point responsible for receiving reports.

B. Whenever a mandated reporter, as defined herein, knows or has reason to believe that an individual made an error in the provision of therapeutic conduct to a vulnerable adult which results in injury or harm, which reasonably requires the care of a physician, such information shall be reported immediately to the designated county agency. The mandated reporter also may report a belief that the error did not constitute neglect and why the error does not constitute neglect.

C. The reporter shall to the extent possible identify the vulnerable adult, the caregiver, the nature and extent of the suspected maltreatment, any evidence of previous maltreatment, the name and address of the reporter, the time, date, and location of the incident, and any other information that the reporter believes might be helpful in investigating the suspected abuse or neglect. A mandated reporter may disclose not public data as defined under Minn. Stat. § 13.02 to the extent necessary to comply with the above reporting requirements.

D. A person mandated to report suspected maltreatment of a vulnerable adult who negligently or intentionally fails to report is liable for damages caused by the failure. A negligent or intentional failure to report may result in discipline. A mandatory reporter who intentionally fails to make a report, who knowingly provides false or misleading information in reporting, or who intentionally fails to provide all the material circumstances surrounding the reported incident may be guilty of a misdemeanor.

E. Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report under Minnesota law and this policy, or against vulnerable adult who is named in a report is prohibited.

F. Any person who intentionally makes a false report under the provisions of applicable Minnesota law or this policy shall be liable in a civil suit for any actual damages suffered by the person or persons so reported and for any punitive damages set by the court or jury. The intentional making of a false report may result in discipline.

V. INVESTIGATION 

The responsibility for investigating reports of suspected maltreatment of a vulnerable adult rests with the entity designated by the county for receiving reports.

VI. DISSEMINATION OF POLICY AND TRAINING

A. This policy shall appear in school personnel handbooks where appropriate.

B. The school district will develop a method of discussing this policy with employees where appropriate.

C. This policy shall be reviewed at least annually for compliance with state law.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 13.02 (Collection, Security, and Dissemination of Records; Definitions)
Minn. Stat. § 245.825 (Aversive and Deprivation Procedures; Licensed Facilities and Services)
Minn. Stat. §§ 609.221-609.224 (Assault)
Minn. Stat. § 609.232 (Crimes Against Vulnerable Adults; Definitions)
Minn. Stat. § 609.235 (Use of Drugs to Injure or Facilitate Crime)
Minn. Stat. § 609.322 (Solicitation, Inducement, and Promotion of Prostitution; Sex Trafficking)
Minn. Stat. § 609.341 (Definitions)
Minn. Stat. §§ 609.342-609.3451 (Criminal Sexual Conduct)
Minn. Stat. § 626.557 (Reporting of Maltreatment of Vulnerable Adults)
Minn. Stat. § 626.5572 (Definitions)
In re Kleven, 736 N.W.2d 707 (Minn. App. 2007)

Cross References:

Policy 415

Adopted: November 3, 2009 Revised: June 16, 2016

416 DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING

I. PURPOSE

A. The school board recognizes the significant problems created by drug and alcohol use in society in general, and the public schools in particular. The school board further recognizes the important contribution that the public schools have in shaping the youth of today into the adults of tomorrow.

B. The school board believes that a work environment free of drug and alcohol use will not only be safer, healthier, and more productive, but will also be more conducive to effective learning. Therefore, to provide such an environment, the purpose of this policy is to provide authority so that the school board may require all employees and/or job applicants to submit to drug and alcohol testing in accordance with the provisions of this policy and as provided in federal law and Minn. Stat. §§ 181.950-181.957.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. All school district employees and job applicants whose positions require a commercial driver’s license will be required to undergo drug and alcohol testing in accordance with federal law and the applicable provisions of this policy. The school district also may request or require that drivers submit to drug and alcohol testing in accordance with the provisions of this policy and as provided in Minn. Stat. §§ 181.950-181.957.

B. The school district may request or require that any school district employee or job applicant, other than an employee or applicant whose position requires a commercial driver’s license, submit to drug and alcohol testing in accordance with the provisions of this policy and as provided in Minn. Stat. §§ 181.950-181.957.

C. The use, possession, sale, purchase, transfer, or dispensing of any drugs not medically prescribed, including medical cannabis, regardless of whether it has been prescribed for the employee, is prohibited on school district property (which includes school district vehicles), while operating school district vehicles or equipment, and at any school sponsored program or event. Use of drugs which are not medically prescribed, including medical cannabis, regardless of whether it has been prescribed for the employee, is also prohibited throughout the school or work day, including lunch or other breaks, whether or not the employee is on or off school district property. Employees under the influence of drugs which are not medically prescribed are prohibited from entering or remaining on school district property.

D. The use, possession, sale, purchase, transfer, or dispensing of alcohol is prohibited on school district property (which includes school district vehicles), while operating school district vehicles or equipment, and at any school-sponsored program or event. Use of alcohol is also prohibited throughout the school or work day, including lunch or other breaks, whether or not the employee is on or off school district property. Employees under the influence of alcohol are prohibited from entering or remaining on school district property.

E. Any employee who violates this section shall be subject to discipline which includes, but is not limited to, immediate suspension without pay and immediate discharge.

III. FEDERALLY MANDATED DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING FOR SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS

A. General Statement of Policy

All persons subject to commercial driver’s license requirements shall be tested for alcohol, marijuana (including medical cannabis), cocaine, amphetamines, opiates (including heroin), and phencyclidine (PCP), pursuant to federal law. Drivers who test positive for alcohol or drugs shall be subject to disciplinary action, which may include termination of employment.

B. Definitions

1. “Actual Knowledge” means actual knowledge by the school district that a driver has used alcohol or controlled substances based on:

(a) direct observation of the employee’s use (not observation of behavior sufficient to warrant reasonable suspicion testing);  (b) information provided by a previous employer;  (c) a traffic citation; or  (d) an employee’s admission, except when made in connection with a qualified employee self-admission program.

2. “Alcohol Screening Device” (ASD) means a breath or saliva device, other than an Evidential Breath Testing Device (EBT), that is approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and placed on its Conforming Products List for such devices.

3. “Breath Alcohol Technician” (BAT) means an individual who instructs and assists individuals in the alcohol testing process and who operates the Evidential Breath Testing Device (EBT).

4. “Commercial Motor Vehicle” (CMV) includes a vehicle which is designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

5. “Designated Employer Representative” (DER) means a designated school district representative authorized to take immediate action to remove employees from safety-sensitive duties, to make required decisions in the testing and evaluation process, and to receive test results and other communications for the school district.

6. “Department of Transportation” (DOT) means United States Department of Transportation.

7. “Driver” is any person who operates a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV), including full-time, regularly employed drivers, casual, intermittent or occasional drivers, leased drivers, and independent owner-operator contractors.

8. “Evidential Breath Testing Device” (EBT) means a device approved by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for the evidentiary testing of breath for alcohol concentration and placed on its Conforming Products List for such devices.

9. “Medical Review Officer” (MRO) means a licensed physician responsible for receiving and reviewing laboratory results generated by the school district’s drug testing program and for evaluating medical explanations for certain drug tests.

10. “Refusal to Submit” (to an alcohol or controlled substances test) means that a driver:

(a) fails to appear for any test within a reasonable time, as determined by the school district, consistent with applicable DOT regulations, after being directed to do so;  (b) fails to remain at the testing site until the testing process is complete;  (c) fails to provide a urine specimen or an adequate amount of saliva or breath for any DOT drug or alcohol test;  (d) fails to permit the observation or monitoring of the driver’s provision of a specimen in the case of a directly observed or monitored collection in a drug test;  (e) fails to provide a sufficient breath specimen or sufficient amount of urine when directed and it has been determined that there was no adequate medical explanation for the failure;  (f) fails or declines to take an additional test as directed;  (g) fails to undergo a medical examination or evaluation, as directed by the Medical Review Officer or the Designated Employer Representative;  (h) fails to cooperate with any part of the testing process (e.g., refuses to empty pockets when so directed by the collector, behaves in a confrontational way that disrupts the collection process, fails to sign the certification on the forms);  (i) fails to follow the observer’s instructions, in an observed collection, to raise the driver’s clothing above the waist, lower clothing and underpants, and to turn around to permit the observer to determine if the driver has any type of prosthetic or other device that could be used to interfere with the collection process;  (j) possesses or wears a prosthetic or other device that could be used to interfere with the collection process;  (k) admits to the collector or MRO that the driver adulterated or substituted the specimen; or  (l) is reported by the Medical Review Officer as having a verified adulterated or substituted test result. An applicant who fails to appear for a pre-employment test, who leaves the testing site before the pre-employment testing process commences, or who does not provide a urine specimen because he or she has left before it commences is not deemed to have refused to submit to testing.

11. “Safety-sensitive functions” are on-duty functions from the time the driver begins work or is required to be in readiness to work until relieved from work, and include such functions as driving, loading and unloading vehicles, or supervising or assisting in the loading or unloading of vehicles, servicing, repairing, obtaining assistance to repair, or remaining in attendance during the repair of a disabled vehicle.

12. “Screening Test Technician” (STT) means anyone who instructs and assists individuals in the alcohol testing process and operates an Alcohol Screening Device.

13. “Stand Down” means to temporarily remove an employee from performing safety-sensitive functions after a laboratory reports a confirmed positive, an adulterated, or a substituted test result but before a Medical Review Officer completes the verification process.

14. “Substance Abuse Professional” (SAP) means a qualified person who evaluates employees who have violated a DOT drug and alcohol regulation and makes recommendations concerning education, treatment, follow-up testing, and aftercare.

C. Policy and Educational Materials

1. The school district shall provide a copy of this policy and procedures to each driver prior to the start of its alcohol and drug testing program and to each driver subsequently hired or transferred into a position requiring driving of a Commercial Motor Vehicle.

2. The school district shall provide to each driver information concerning the effects of alcohol and controlled substances use on an individual’s health, work, and personal life; signs and symptoms of an alcohol or drug problem; and available methods of intervening when an alcohol or drug problem is suspected, including confrontation, referral to an employee assistance program, and/or referral to management.

3. The school district shall provide written notice to representatives of employee organizations that the information described above is available.

4. The school district shall require each driver to sign a statement certifying that he or she has received a copy of the policy and materials. This statement should be in the form of Attachment A to this policy. The school district will maintain the original signed certificate and will provide a copy to the driver if the driver so requests.

D. Alcohol and Controlled Substances Testing Program Manager

1. The program manager will coordinate the implementation, direction, and administration of the alcohol and controlled substances testing policy for bus drivers. The program manager is the principal contact for the collection site, the testing laboratory, the Medical Review Officer, the Breath Alcohol Technician, the Substance Abuse Professional, and the person submitting to the test. Employee questions concerning this policy shall be directed to the program manager.

2. The school district shall designate a program manager and provide written notice of the designation to each driver along with this policy.

E. Specific Prohibitions for Drivers

1. Alcohol Concentration.

No driver shall report for duty or remain on duty requiring the performance of safety-sensitive functions while having an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or greater. Drivers who test greater than 0.04 will be taken out of service and will be subject to evaluation by a professional and retesting at the driver’s expense.

2. Alcohol Possession.

No driver shall be on duty or operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle while the driver possesses alcohol.

3. On-Duty Use.

No driver shall use alcohol while performing safety-sensitive functions.

4. Pre-Duty Use.

No driver shall perform safety-sensitive functions within four (4) hours after using alcohol.

5. Use Following an Accident. 

No driver required to take a post-accident test shall use alcohol for eight (8) hours following the accident, or until he or she undergoes a post-accident alcohol test, whichever occurs first.

6. Refusal to Submit to a Required Test.

No driver shall refuse to submit to an alcohol or controlled substances test required by post-accident, random, reasonable suspicion, return-to-duty, or follow-up testing requirements. A verified adulterated or substituted drug test shall be considered a refusal to test.

7. Use of Controlled Substances.

No driver shall report for duty or remain on duty requiring the performance of safety-sensitive functions when the driver uses any controlled substance, except when the use is pursuant to instructions (which have been presented to the school district) from a licensed physician who has advised the driver that the substance does not adversely affect the driver’s ability to safely operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle. Controlled substance includes medical cannabis, regardless of whether the driver is enrolled in the state registry program.

8. Positive, Adulterated, or Substituted Test for Controlled Substance.

No driver shall report for duty, remain on duty, or perform a safety-sensitive function if the driver tests positive for controlled substances, including medical cannabis, or has adulterated or substituted a test specimen for controlled substances.

9. General Prohibition.

Drivers are also subject to the general policies and procedures of the school district which prohibit the possession, transfer, sale, exchange, reporting to work under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and consumption of drugs or alcohol while at work or while on school district premises or operating any school district vehicle, machinery, or equipment.

F. Other Alcohol-Related Conduct

No driver found to have an alcohol concentration of 0.02 or greater but less than 0.04 shall perform safety-sensitive functions for at least twenty-four (24) hours following administration of the test. The school district will not take any action under this policy other than removal from safety-sensitive functions based solely on test results showing an alcohol concentration of less than 0.04 but may take action otherwise consistent with law and policy of the school district.

G. Prescription Drugs

A driver shall inform his or her supervisor if at any time the driver is using a controlled substance pursuant to a physician’s prescription. The physician’s instructions shall be presented to the school district upon request. Use of a prescription drug shall be allowed if the physician has advised the driver that the prescribed drug will not adversely affect the driver’s ability to safely operate a Commercial Motor Vehicle. Use of medical cannabis is prohibited notwithstanding the driver’s enrollment in the patient registry.

H. Testing Requirements

1. Pre-Employment Testing

a. A driver applicant shall undergo testing for [alcohol and] controlled substances, including medical cannabis, before the first time the driver performs safety-sensitive functions for the school district.

b. Tests shall be conducted only after the applicant has received a conditional offer of employment.

c. In order to be hired, the applicant must test negative and must sign an agreement in the form of Attachment B to this policy, authorizing former employers to release to the school district all information on the applicant’s alcohol tests with results of blood alcohol concentration of 0.04 or higher, or verified positive results for controlled substances, including medical cannabis, or refusals to be tested (including verified adulterated or substituted drug test results), or any other violations of DOT agency drug and alcohol testing regulations, or, if the applicant violated the testing regulations, documentation of the applicant’s successful completion of DOT return- to-duty requirements (including follow-up tests), within the preceding two (2) years.

d. The applicant also must be asked whether he or she has tested positive, or refused to test, on any pre-employment drug or alcohol test administered by an employer to which the employee, during the last two (2) years, applied for, but did not obtain, safety-sensitive transportation work covered by DOT testing rules.

2. Post-Accident Testing

a. As soon as practicable following an accident involving a Commercial Motor Vehicle, the school district shall test the driver for alcohol and controlled substances, including medical cannabis, if the accident involved the loss of human life or if the driver receives a citation for a moving traffic violation arising from an accident which results in bodily injury or disabling damage to a motor vehicle.

b. Drivers should be tested for alcohol use within two (2) hours and no later than eight (8) hours after the accident.

c. Drivers should be tested for controlled substances, including medical cannabis, no later than thirty- two (32) hours after the accident.

d. A driver subject to post-accident testing must remain available for testing, or shall be considered to have refused to submit to the test.

e. If a post-accident alcohol test is not administered within two (2) hours following the accident, the school district shall prepare and maintain on file a record stating the reasons the test was not promptly administered and continue to attempt to administer the alcohol test within eight (8) hours.

f. If a post-accident alcohol test is not administered within eight (8) hours following the accident or a post-accident controlled substances test is not administered within thirty-two (32) hours following the accident, the school district shall cease attempts to administer the test, and prepare and maintain on file a record stating the reasons for not administering the test.

3. Random Testing

a. The school district shall conduct tests on a random basis at unannounced times throughout the year, as required by the federal regulations.

b. The school district shall test for alcohol at a minimum annual percentage rate of 10% of the average number of driver positions, and for controlled substances, including medical cannabis, at a minimum annual percentage of 50%.

c. The school district shall adopt a scientifically valid method for selecting drivers for testing, such as random number table or a computer-based random number generator that is matched with identifying numbers of the drivers. Each driver shall have an equal chance of being tested each time selections are made.

d. Random tests shall be unannounced. Dates for administering random tests shall be spread reasonably throughout the calendar year.

e. Drivers shall proceed immediately to the collection site upon notification of selection; provided, however, that if the driver is performing a safety-sensitive function, other than driving, at the time of notification, the driver shall cease to perform the function and proceed to the collection site as soon as possible.

4. Reasonable Suspicion Testing

a. The school district shall require a driver to submit to an alcohol test and/or controlled substances, including medical cannabis, test when a supervisor or school district official, who has been trained in accordance with the regulations, has reasonable suspicion to believe that the driver has used alcohol and/or controlled substances, including medical cannabis, on duty or within four (4) hours before coming on duty. The test shall be done as soon as practicable following the observation of the behavior indicative of the use of controlled substances or alcohol.

b. The reasonable suspicion determination must be based on specific, contemporaneous, articulable observations concerning the driver’s appearance, behavior, speech, or body odors. The required observations for reasonable suspicion of a controlled substances violation may include indications of the chronic and withdrawal effects of controlled substances.

c. Alcohol testing shall be administered within two (2) hours following a determination of reasonable suspicion. If it is not done within two (2) hours, the school district shall prepare and maintain a record explaining why it was not promptly administered and continue to attempt to administer the alcohol test within eight (8) hours. If an alcohol test is not administered within eight (8) hours following the determination of reasonable suspicion, the school district shall cease attempts to administer the test and state in the record the reasons for not administering the test.

d. The supervisor or school district official who makes observations leading to a controlled substances reasonable suspicion test shall make and sign a written record of the observations within twenty-four (24) hours of the observed behavior or before the results of the drug test are released, whichever is earlier.

5. Return-To-Duty Testing.

A driver found to have violated this policy shall not return to work until a Substance Abuse Professional has determined the employee has successfully complied with prescribed education and/or treatment and until undergoing return-to-duty tests indicating an alcohol concentration of less than 0.02 and a confirmed negative result for the use of controlled substances.

6. Follow-Up Testing.

When a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) has determined that a driver is in need of assistance in resolving problems with alcohol and/or controlled substances, the driver shall be subject to unannounced follow-up testing as directed by the SAP for up to sixty (60) months after completing a treatment program.

7. Refusal to Submit and Attendant Consequences

a. A driver or driver applicant may refuse to submit to drug and alcohol testing.

b. Refusal to submit to a required drug or alcohol test subjects the driver or driver applicant to the consequences specified in federal regulations as well as the civil and/or criminal penalty provisions of 49 U.S.C. § 521(b). In addition, a refusal to submit to testing establishes a presumption that the driver or driver applicant would test positive if a test were conducted and makes the driver or driver applicant subject to discipline or disqualification under this policy.

c. A driver applicant who refuses to submit to testing shall be disqualified from further consideration for the conditionally offered position.

d. An employee who refuses to submit to testing shall not be permitted to perform safety-sensitive functions and will be considered insubordinate and subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. If an employee is offered an opportunity to return to a DOT safety-sensitive duty, the employee will be evaluated by a Substance Abuse Professional and must submit to a return-to-duty test prior to being considered for reassignment to safety-sensitive functions.

e. Drivers or driver applicants who refuse to submit to required testing will be required to sign Attachment C to this policy.

I. Testing Procedures

1. Drug Testing

a. Drug testing is conducted by analyzing a donor’s urine specimen. Split urine samples will be collected in accordance with federal regulations. The donor will provide a urine sample at a designated collection site. The collection site personnel will then pour the sample into two sample bottles labeled “primary” and “split,” seal the specimen bottles, complete the chain of custody form, and prepare the specimen bottles for shipment to the testing laboratory for analysis. The specimen preparation shall be conducted in sight of the donor.

b. If the donor is unable to provide the appropriate quantity of urine, the collection site person shall instruct the individual to drink up to forty (40) ounces of fluid distributed reasonably through a period of up to three (3) hours to attempt to provide a sample. If the individual is still unable to provide a complete sample, the test shall be discontinued and the school district notified. The Designated Employer Representative shall refer the donor for a medical evaluation to determine if the donor’s inability to provide a specimen is genuine or constitutes a refusal to test. For pre-employment testing, the school district may elect to not have a referral made, and revoke the employment offer.

c. Drug test results are reported directly to the Medical Review Officer (MRO) by the testing laboratory. The MRO reports the results to the Designated Employer Representative. If the results are negative, the school district is informed and no further action is necessary. If the test result is confirmed positive, adulterated, substituted, or invalid, the MRO shall give the donor an opportunity to discuss the test result. The MRO will contact the donor directly, on a confidential basis, to determine whether the donor wishes to discuss the test result. The MRO shall notify each donor that the donor has seventy-two (72) hours from the time of notification in which to request a test of the split specimen at the donor’s expense. No split specimen testing is done for an invalid result.

d. If the donor requests an analysis of the split specimen within seventytwo (72) hours of having been informed of a confirmed positive test, the Medical Review Officer (MRO) shall direct, in writing, the laboratory to provide the split specimen to another Department of Health and Human Services – SAMHSA certified laboratory for analysis. If the donor has not contacted the MRO within seventy-two (72) hours, the donor may present the MRO information documenting that serious illness, injury, inability to contact the MRO, lack of actual notice of the confirmed positive test, or other circumstances unavoidably prevented the donor from timely making contact. If the MRO concludes that there is a legitimate explanation for the donor’s failure to contact him/her within seventy-two (72) hours, the MRO shall direct the analysis of the split specimen The MRO will review the confirmed positive test result to determine whether there is an acceptable medical reason for the positive result. The MRO shall confirm and report a positive test result to the Designated Employer Representative and the employee when there is no legitimate medical reason for a positive test result as received from the testing laboratory.

e. If, after making reasonable efforts and documenting those efforts, the Medical Review Officer (MRO) is unable to reach the donor directly, the MRO must contact the Designated Employer Representative (DER) who will direct the donor to contact the MRO. If the DER is unable to contact the donor, the donor will be suspended from performing safetysensitive functions.

f. The Medical Review Officer may confirm the test as a positive without having communicated directly with the donor about the test results under the following circumstances:

(1) The donor expressly declines the opportunity to discuss the test results;  (2) The donor has not contacted the Medical Review Officer within seventy-two (72) hours of being instructed to do so by the Designated Employer Representative; or  (3) The Medical Review Officer and the Designated Employer Representative, after making and documenting all reasonable efforts, have not been able to contact the donor with ten (10) days of the date the confirmed test result was received from the laboratory.

2. Alcohol Testing

a. The federal alcohol testing regulations require testing to be administered by a Breath Alcohol Technician using an Evidential Breath Testing Device (EBT) or a Screening Test Technician using an Alcohol Screening Device (ASD). EBTs and ASDs can be used for screening tests but only EBTs can be used for confirmation tests.

b. Any test result less than 0.02 alcohol concentration is considered a “negative” test.

c. If the donor is unable to provide sufficient saliva for an Alcohol Screening Device, the Designated Employer Representative will immediately arrange to use an Evidential Breath Testing Device. If the donor attempts and fails to provide an adequate amount of breath, the school district will direct the donor to obtain a written evaluation from a licensed physician to determine if the donor’s inability to provide a breath sample is genuine or constitutes a refusal to test.

d. If the screening test results show alcohol concentration of .02 or higher, a confirmatory test conducted on an Evidential Breath Testing Device will be required to be performed between 15 and 30 minutes after the completion of the screening test.

e. Alcohol tests are reported directly to the Designated Employer Representative.

J. Driver/Driver Applicant Rights

1. All drivers and driver applicants subject to the controlled substances testing provisions of this policy who receive a confirmed positive test result for the use of controlled substances have the right to request, at the driver’s or driver applicant’s expense, a confirming retest of the split urine sample. If the confirming retest is negative, no adverse action will be taken against the driver, and a driver applicant will be considered for employment. 

2. The school district will not discharge a driver who, for the first time, receives a firmed positive drug or alcohol test UNLESS:

a. The school district has first given the employee an opportunity to participate in, at the employee’s own expense or pursuant to coverage under an employee benefit plan, either a drug or alcohol counseling or rehabilitation program, whichever is more appropriate, as determined by the school district after consultation with the Substance Abuse Professional; and

b. The employee refuses to participate in the recommended program, or fails to successfully complete the program as evidenced by withdrawal before its completion or by a positive test result on a confirmatory test after completion of the program.

c. This limitation on employee discharge does not bar discharge of an employee for reasons independent of the first confirmed positive test result.

K. Testing Laboratory

The testing laboratory for controlled substances will be at a laboratory which is certified by the Department of Health and Human Services – SAMHSA to perform controlled substances testing pursuant to federal regulations.

L. Confidentiality of Test Results

All alcohol and controlled substances test results and required records of the drug and alcohol testing program are considered confidential information under federal law and private data on individuals as that phrase is defined in Minn. Stat. Ch. 13. Any information concerning the individual’s test results and records shall not be released without written permission of the individual, except as provided for by regulation or law.

M. Record keeping Requirements and Retention of Records

1. The school district shall keep and maintain records in accordance with the federal regulations in a secure location with controlled access.

2. The required records shall be retained for the following minimum periods:

Basic records 5 years

“Basic records” includes records of:

(a) alcohol test results with concentration of 0.02 or greater;  (b) verified positive drug test results;  (c) refusals to submit to required tests (including substituted or adulterated drug test results);  (d) SAP reports;  (e) all follow-up tests and schedules for follow-up tests;  (f) calibration documentation;  (g) administration of the testing programs; and  (h) each annual calendar year summary.

Information obtained from previous employers - 3 years

Collection records - 2 years

Negative and cancelled drug tests - 1 year

Alcohol tests with less than 0.02 concentration - 1 year

Education and training records - indefinite

“Education and training records” must be maintained while the individuals perform the functions which require training and for the two (2) years after ceasing to perform those functions.

N. Training

The school district shall ensure all persons designated to supervise drivers receive training. The designated employees shall receive at least sixty (60) minutes of training on alcohol misuse and at least sixty (60) minutes of training on controlled substances use. The training shall include physical, behavioral, speech, and performance indicators of probable misuse of alcohol and use of controlled substances. The training will be used by the supervisors to make determinations of reasonable suspicion.

O. Consequences of Prohibited Conduct and Enforcement

1. Removal

The school district shall remove a driver who has engaged in prohibited conduct from safety-sensitive functions. A driver shall not be permitted to return to safety-sensitive functions until and unless the return-toduty requirements of federal DOT regulations have been completed.

2. Referral, Evaluation, and Treatment

a. A driver or driver applicant who has engaged in prohibited conduct shall be provided a listing of Substance Abuse Professionals readily available to the driver or applicant and acceptable to the school district.

b. If the school district offers a driver an opportunity to return to a DOT safety-sensitive duty following a violation, the driver must be evaluated by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) and the driver is required to successfully comply with the SAP’s evaluation recommendations (education, treatment, follow-up evaluation(s), and/or ongoing services). The school district is not required to provide a SAP evaluation or any subsequent recommended education or treatment.

c. Drivers are responsible for payment for Substance Abuse Professional evaluations and services unless a collective bargaining agreement or employee benefit plan provides otherwise.

d. Drivers who engage in prohibited conduct also are required to comply with follow-up testing requirements.

3. Disciplinary Action

a. Any driver who refuses to submit to post-accident, random, reasonable suspicion, or follow-up testing not only shall not perform or continue to perform safety-sensitive functions, but also may be subject to disciplinary action, which may include immediate suspension without pay and/or immediate discharge.

b. Drivers who test positive with verification of a confirmatory test or are otherwise found to be in violation of this policy or the federal regulations shall be subject to disciplinary action, which may include immediate suspension without pay and/or immediate discharge.

c. Nothing in this policy limits or restricts the right of the school district to discipline or discharge a driver for conduct which not only constitutes prohibited conduct under this policy but also violates the school district’s other rules or policies.

P. Other Testing

The school district may request or require that drivers submit to drug and alcohol testing other than that required by federal law. For example, drivers may be requested or required to undergo drug and alcohol testing on an annual basis as part of a routine physical examination. Such additional testing of drivers will be conducted only in accordance with the provisions of this policy and as provided in Minn. Stat. §§ 181.950- 181.957. For purposes of such additional, non-mandatory testing, drivers fall within the definition of “other employees” covered by Section IV. of this policy.

IV. DRUG AND ALCOHOL TESTING FOR OTHER EMPLOYEES

The school district may request or require drug and alcohol testing for other school district personnel, i.e., employees who are not school bus drivers, or job applicants for such positions. The school district does not have a legal duty to request or require any employee or job applicant to undergo drug and alcohol testing as authorized in this policy, except for school bus drivers and other drivers of Commercial Motor Vehicles who are subject to federally mandated testing. (See Section III. of this policy.) If a school bus driver is requested or required to submit to drug or alcohol testing beyond that mandated by federal law, the provisions of Section IV. of this policy will be applicable to such testing.

A. Circumstances Under Which Drug or Alcohol Testing May Be Requested or Required:

1. General Limitations

a. The school district will not request or require an employee or job applicant whose position does not require a commercial driver’s license to undergo drug or alcohol testing, unless the testing is done pursuant to this drug and alcohol testing policy; and is conducted by a testing laboratory which participates in one of the programs listed in Minn. Stat. § 181.953, Subd. 1.

b. The school district will not request or require an employee or job applicant whose position does not require a commercial driver’s license to undergo drug and alcohol testing on an arbitrary and capricious basis.

2. Job Applicant Testing

The school district may request or require any job applicant whose position does not require a commercial driver’s license to undergo drug and alcohol testing, provided a job offer has been made to the applicant and the same test is requested or required of all job applicants conditionally offered employment for that position. If a job applicant has received a job offer which is contingent on the applicant’s passing drug and alcohol testing, the school district may not withdraw the offer based on a positive test result from an initial screening test that has not been verified by a confirmatory test. In the event the job offer is subsequently withdrawn, the school district shall notify the job applicant of the reason for its action.

3. Random Testing

The school district may request or require employees to undergo drug and alcohol testing on a random selection basis only if they are employed in safety sensitive positions.

4. Reasonable Suspicion Testing

The school district may request or require any employee to undergo drug and alcohol testing if the school district has a reasonable suspicion that the employee: a. is under the influence of drugs or alcohol; b. has violated the school district’s written work rules prohibiting the use, possession, sale, or transfer of drugs or alcohol while the employee is working or while the employee is on the school district’s premises or operating the school district’s vehicles, machinery, or equipment; c. has sustained a personal injury, as that term is defined in Minn. Stat. § 176.011, Subd. 16, or has caused another employee to sustain a personal injury; or operate machinery, equipment, or vehicles involved in a work-related accident.

5. Treatment Program Testing

The school district may request or require any employee to undergo drug and alcohol testing if the employee has been referred by the school district for chemical dependency treatment or evaluation or is participating in a chemical dependency treatment program under an employee benefit plan, in which case the employee may be requested or required to undergo drug and alcohol testing without prior notice during the evaluation or treatment period and for a period of up to two (2) years following completion of any prescribed chemical dependency treatment program.

6. Routine Physical Examination Testing

The school district may request or require any employee to undergo drug and alcohol testing as part of a routine physical examination provided the drug or alcohol test is requested or required no more than once annually and the employee has been given at least two weeks’ written notice that a drug or alcohol test may be requested or required as part of the physical examination.

B. No Legal Duty to Test

The school district does not have a legal duty to request or require any employee or job applicant whose position does not require a commercial driver’s license to undergo drug and alcohol testing.

C. Definitions

1. “Drug” means a controlled substance as defined in Minnesota Statutes, including medical cannabis, regardless of enrollment in the state registry program.

2. “Drug and alcohol testing,” “drug or alcohol testing,” and “drug or alcohol test” mean analysis of a body component sample according to the standards established under one of the programs listed in Minn. Stat. § 181.953, Subd. 1, for the purpose of measuring the presence or absence of drugs, alcohol, or their metabolites in the sample tested.

3. “Other Employees” means any persons, independent contractors, or persons working for an independent contractor who perform services for the school district for compensation, either full time or part time, in whatever form, except for persons whose positions require a commercial driver’s license, and includes both professional and nonprofessional personnel. Persons whose positions require a commercial driver’s license are primarily governed by the provisions of the school district’s drug and alcohol testing policy relating to school bus drivers (Section III.). To the extent that the drug and alcohol testing of persons whose positions require a commercial driver’s license is not mandated by federal law and regulations, such testing shall be governed by Section IV. of this policy and the drivers shall fall within this definition of “other employees.”

4. “Job applicant” means a person, independent contractor, or person working for an independent contractor who applies to become an employee of the school district in a position that does not require a commercial driver’s license, and includes a person who has received a job offer made contingent on the person’s passing drug or alcohol testing. Job applicants for positions requiring a commercial driver’s license are governed by the provisions of the school district’s drug and alcohol testing policy relating to school bus drivers (Section III.).

5. “Positive test result” means a finding of the presence of drugs, alcohol, or their metabolites in the sample tested in levels at or above the threshold detection levels contained in the standards of one of the programs listed in Minn. Stat. § 181.953, Subd. 1.

6. “Random selection basis” means a mechanism for selection of employees that:

a. results in an equal probability that any employee from a group of employees subject to the selection mechanism will be selected; and

b. does not give the school district discretion to waive the selection of any employee selected under the mechanism.

7. “Reasonable suspicion” means a basis for forming a belief based on specific facts and rational inferences drawn from those facts.

8. “Safety-sensitive position” means a job, including any supervisory or management position, in which an impairment caused by drug or alcohol usage would threaten the health or safety of any person.

D. Right of Other Employee or Job Applicant to Refuse Drug and Alcohol Testing and Consequences of Such Refusal

1. Right of Other Employee or Job Applicant to Refuse Drug and Alcohol Testing

Any employee or job applicant whose position does not require a commercial driver’s license has the right to refuse drug and alcohol testing subject to the provisions contained in Paragraphs 2. and 3. of this Section D.

2. Consequences of an Employee’s Refusal to Undergo Drug and Alcohol Testing

Any employee in a position that does not require a commercial driver’s license who refuses to undergo drug and alcohol testing in the circumstances set out in the Random Testing, Reasonable Suspicion Testing, and Treatment Program Testing provisions of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including immediate discharge.

3. Consequences of a Job Applicant’s Refusal to Undergo Drug and Alcohol Testing

Any job applicant for a position which does not require a commercial driver’s license who refuses to undergo drug and alcohol testing pursuant to the Job Applicant Testing provision of this policy shall not be employed.

E. Reliability and Fairness Safeguards

1. Pretest Notice

Before requesting an employee or job applicant whose position does not require a commercial driver’s license to undergo drug or alcohol testing, the school district shall provide the employee or job applicant with a Pretest Notice in the form of Attachment D to this policy on which to acknowledge that the employee or job applicant has received the school district’s drug and alcohol testing policy.

2. Notice of Test Results

Within three (3) working days after receipt of a test result report from the testing laboratory, the school district shall inform in writing an employee or job applicant who has undergone drug or alcohol testing of a negative test result on an initial screening test or of a negative or positive test result on a confirmatory test.

3. Notice of and Right to Test Result Report

Within three (3) working days after receipt of a test result report from the testing laboratory, the school district shall inform in writing, an employee or job applicant who has undergone drug or alcohol testing of the employee or job applicant’s right to request and receive from the school district a copy of the test result report on any drug or alcohol test.

4. Notice of and Right to Explain Positive Test Result

a. If an employee or job applicant has a positive test result on a confirmatory test, the school district shall provide him or her with notice of the test results and, at the same time, written notice of the right to explain the results and to submit additional information.

b. The school district may request that the employee or job applicant indicate any over-the-counter or prescription medication that the individual is currently taking or has recently taken and any other information relevant to the reliability of, or explanation for, a positive test result.

c. The employee may present verification of enrollment in the medical cannabis patient registry as part of the employee’s explanation.

d. Within three (3) working days after notice of a positive test result on a confirmatory test, an employee or job applicant may submit information (in addition to any information already submitted) to the school district to explain that result.

5. Notice of and Right to Request Confirmatory Retests

a. If an employee or job applicant has a positive test result on a confirmatory test, the school district shall provide him or her with notice of the test results and, at the same time, written notice of the right to request a confirmatory retest of the original sample at his or her expense.

b. An employee or job applicant may request a confirmatory retest of the original sample at his or her own expense after notice of a positive test result on a confirmatory test. Within five (5) working days after notice of the confirmatory test result, the employee or job applicant shall notify the school district in writing of his or her intention to obtain a confirmatory retest. Within three (3) working days after receipt of the notice, the school district shall notify the original testing laboratory that the employee or job applicant has requested the laboratory to conduct the confirmatory retest or to transfer the sample to another laboratory licensed under Minn. Stat. § 181.953, Subd. 1 to conduct the confirmatory retest. The original testing laboratory shall ensure that appropriate chain-of-custody procedures are followed during transfer of the sample to the other laboratory. The confirmatory retest must use the same drug or alcohol threshold detection levels as used in the original confirmatory test. If the confirmatory retest does not confirm the original positive test result, no adverse personnel action based on the original confirmatory test may be taken against the employee or job applicant.

6. If an employee or job applicant has a positive test result on a confirmatory test, the school district, at the time of providing notice of the test results, shall also provide written notice to inform him or her of other rights provided under Sections F. or G., below, whichever is applicable. Attachments E and F to this policy provide the Notices described in Paragraphs 2. through 6. of this Section E.

F. Discharge and Discipline of Employees Whose Positions Do Not Require a Commercial Driver’s License

1. The school district may not discharge, discipline, discriminate against, request, or require rehabilitation of an employee on the basis of a positive test result from an initial screening test that has not been verified by a confirmatory test.

2. In the case of a positive test result on a confirmatory test, the employee shall be subject to discipline which includes, but is not limited to, immediate suspension without pay and immediate discharge, pursuant to the provisions of this policy.

3. The school district may not discharge an employee for whom a positive test result on a confirmatory test was the first such result for the employee on a drug or alcohol test requested by the school district, unless the following conditions have been met:

a. The school district has first given the employee an opportunity to participate in, at the employee’s own expense or pursuant to coverage under an employee benefit plan, either a drug or alcohol counseling or rehabilitation program, whichever is more appropriate, as determined by the school district after consultation with a certified chemical abuse counselor or a physician trained in the diagnosis and treatment of chemical dependency; and

b. The employee has either refused to participate in the counseling or rehabilitation program or has failed to successfully complete the program, as evidenced by withdrawal from the program before its completion or by a positive test result on a confirmatory test after completion of the program.

4. Notwithstanding Paragraph 1., the school district may temporarily suspend the tested employee or transfer that employee to another position at the same rate of pay pending the outcome of the confirmatory test and, if requested, the confirmatory retest, provided the school district believes that it is reasonably necessary to protect the health or safety of the employee, co-employees or the public. An employee who has been suspended without pay must be reinstated with back pay if the outcome of the confirmatory test or requested confirmatory retest is negative.

5. The school district may not discharge, discipline, discriminate against, request, or require rehabilitation of an employee on the basis of medical history information or the employee’s status as a patient enrolled in the medical cannabis registry program revealed to the school district, unless the employee was under an affirmative duty to provide the information before, upon, or after hire, or failing to do so would violate federal law or regulations or cause the school district to lose money or licensing-related benefit under federal law or regulations.

6. The school district may not discriminate against any employee in termination, discharge, or any term of condition of employment or otherwise penalize an employee based upon an employee registered patient’s positive drug test for cannabis components or metabolites, unless the employee used, possessed, or was impaired by medical cannabis on school district property during the hours of employment.

7. An employee must be given access to information in his or her personnel file relating to positive test result reports and other information acquired in the drug and alcohol testing process and conclusions drawn from and actions taken based on the reports or other acquired information.

G. Withdrawal of Job Offer for an Applicant for a Position That Does Not Require a Commercial Driver’s License

If a job applicant has received a job offer made contingent on the applicant’s passing drug and alcohol testing, the school district may not withdraw the offer based on a positive test result from an initial screening test that has not been verified by a confirmatory test. In the case of a positive test result on a confirmatory test, the school district may withdraw the job offer.

H. Chain-of-Custody Procedures

The school district has established its own reliable chain-of-custody procedures to ensure proper record keeping, handling, labeling, and identification of the samples to be tested. The procedures require the following:

1. Possession of a sample must be traceable to the employee from whom the sample is collected, from the time the sample is collected through the time the sample is delivered to the laboratory;

2. The sample must always be in the possession of, must always be in view of, or must be placed in a secure area by a person authorized to handle the sample;

3. A sample must be accompanied by a written chain-of-custody record; and

4. Individuals relinquishing or accepting possession of the sample must record the time the possession of the sample was transferred and must sign and date the chain-of custody record at the time of transfer.

I. Privacy, Confidentiality and Privilege Safeguards

1. Privacy Limitations

A laboratory may only disclose to the school district test result data regarding the presence or absence of drugs, alcohol or their metabolites in a sample tested.

2. Confidentiality Limitations

With respect to employees and job applicants, test result reports and other information acquired in the drug or alcohol testing process are private data on individuals as that phrase is defined in Minn. Stat. Ch. 13, and may not be disclosed by the school district or laboratory to another employer or to a third- party individual, governmental agency, or private organization without the written consent of the employee or job applicant tested.

3. Exceptions to Privacy and Confidentiality Disclosure Limitations Notwithstanding Paragraphs 1. and 2., evidence of a positive test result on a confirmatory test may be:

(1) used in an arbitration proceeding pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement, an administrative hearing under Minn. Stat. Ch. 43A or other applicable state or local law, or a judicial proceeding, provided that information is relevant to the hearing or proceeding;  (2) disclosed to any federal agency or other unit of the United States government as required under federal law, regulation or order, or in accordance with compliance requirements of a federal government contract; and   (3) disclosed to a substance abuse treatment facility for the purpose of evaluation or treatment of the employee.

4. Privilege

Positive test results from the school district drug or alcohol testing program may not be used as evidence in a criminal action against the employee or job applicant tested.

J. Notice of Testing Policy to Affected Employees

The school district shall provide written notice of this drug and alcohol testing policy to all affected employees upon adoption of the policy, to a previously non-affected employee upon transfer to an affected position under the policy, and to a job applicant upon hire and before any testing of the applicant if the job offer is made contingent on the applicant’s passing drug and alcohol testing. Affected employees and applicants will acknowledge receipt of this written notice in the form of Attachment G to this policy.

V. POSTING

The school district shall post notice in an appropriate and conspicuous location on its premises that it has adopted a drug and alcohol testing policy and that copies of the policy are available for inspection during regular business hours by its employees or job applicants in its personnel office or other suitable locations.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act)
Minn. Stat. Ch. 43A (State Personnel Management)
Minn. Stat. § 152.22 (Medical Cannabis; Definitions)
Minn. Stat. § 152.23 (Medical Cannabis; Limitations)
Minn. Stat. § 152.32 (Protections for Registry Program Participation)
Minn. Stat. §§ 181.950-181.957 (Drug and Alcohol Testing in the Workplace)
Minn. Stat. § 221.031 (Motor Carrier Rules)
49 U.S.C. § 31306 (Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991)
49 U.S.C. § 521(b) (Civil and Criminal Penalties for Violations)
49 C.F.R. Parts 40 and 382 (Department of Transportation Rules Implementing Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991)

Cross-References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 403 (Discipline, Suspension, and Dismissal of School District Employees)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 406 (Public and Private Personnel Data)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 417 (Chemical Use and Abuse)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 418 (Drug-Free Workplace/Drug-Free School)

Policy416.pdf

Policy416Forms.pdf

Orig. 2006 – Rev. 2012 – Rev. 2016
Adopted August 30, 2016 - Revised June 6, 2023

417 CHEMICAL USE AND ABUSE

I. PURPOSE

The school board recognizes that chemical use and abuse constitutes a grave threat to the physical and mental well-being of students and employees and significantly impedes the learning process.  Chemical use and abuse also creates significant problems for society in general.  The school board believes that the public school has a role in education, intervention, and prevention of chemical use and abuse.  The purpose of this policy is to assist the school district in its goal to prevent chemical use and abuse by providing procedures for education and intervention.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. Use or possession of controlled substances, toxic substances, medical cannabis, and alcohol before, during, or after school hours, at school or in any other school location, is prohibited in accordance with school district policies with respect to a Drug-Free Workplace/Drug-Free School.

B. The school district shall develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive programs and activities that foster safe, healthy, supportive, and drug-free environments that support student academic achievement.

C. Every school that participates in a school district chemical abuse program shall establish a chemical abuse preassessment team.  The team is responsible for addressing reports of chemical abuse problems and making recommendations for appropriate responses to the individual reported cases.

D. The school district shall establish a drug-free awareness program for its employees.
 

III. DEFINITIONS

A.  "Chemical abuse,” as applied to students, means use of any psychoactive or mood-altering chemical substance, without compelling medical reason, in a manner that induces mental, emotional, or physical impairment and causes socially dysfunctional or socially disordering behavior, to the extent that the minor’s normal function in academic, school, or social activities is chronically impaired.

B. “Controlled substances,” as applied to the chemical abuse assessment of students, means a drug, substance, or immediate precursor in Schedules I through V of Minnesota Statutes section 152.02 and “marijuana” as defined in Minnesota Statutes section 152.01, subdivision 9 but not distilled spirits, wine, malt beverages, intoxicating liquors or tobacco.  As otherwise defined in this policy, “controlled substances” include narcotic drugs, hallucinogenic drugs, amphetamines, barbiturates, marijuana, anabolic steroids, or any other controlled substance as defined in Schedules I through V of the Controlled Substances Act, 21 United States Code section 812, including analogues and look-alike drugs.

C. “Drug prevention” means prevention, early intervention, rehabilitation referral, recovery support services, or education related to the illegal use of drugs, such as raising awareness about the consequences of drug use that are evidence based.

D. “Teacher” means all persons employed in a public school or education district or by a service cooperative as members of the instructional, supervisory, and support staff including superintendents, principals, supervisors, secondary vocational and other classroom teachers, librarians, counselors, school psychologists, school nurses, school social workers, audio-visual directors and coordinators, recreation personnel, media generalists, media supervisors, and speech therapists.

IV. STUDENTS

A. Districtwide School Discipline Policy

Procedures for detecting and addressing chemical abuse problems of a student while on school premises are included in the district wide school student discipline policy.

B. Programs and Activities

1. The school district shall develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive programs and activities that foster safe, healthy, supportive, and drug-free environments that support student academic achievements.  The programs and activities may include, among other programs and activities, drug prevention activities and programs that may be evidence based, including programs to educate students against the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, smokeless tobacco products, and electronic cigarettes.

C. Reports of Use, Possession, or Transfer of Alcohol or a Controlled Substance

1. A teacher in a nonpublic school participating in a school district chemical use program, or a public school teacher, who knows or has reason to believe that a student is using, possessing, or transferring alcohol or a controlled substance while on the school premises or involved in school-related activities, shall immediately notify the school's chemical abuse preassessment team, or staff member assigned duties similar to those of such a team, of this information. 

2. Students involved in the abuse, possession, transfer, distribution, or sale of chemicals may be suspended and proposed for expulsion in compliance with the student discipline policy and the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minnesota Statutes section 121A.40-121A.56, and proposed for expulsion.

3. Searches by school district officials in connection with the use, possession, or transfer of alcohol or a controlled substance will be conducted in accordance with school board policies related to search and seizure.

4. Nothing in paragraph IV.B.1. prevents a teacher or any other school employee from reporting to a law enforcement agency any violation of law occurring on school premises or at school sponsored events.

D. Data Practices

1. Student data may be disclosed without consent in health and safety emergencies pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 13.32 and applicable federal law and regulations.

2. Destruction of Records

a. If the preassessment team decides not to provide a student and, in the case of a minor, the student’s parents with information about school or community services in connection with chemical abuse, records created or maintained by the team about the student shall be destroyed not later than six (6) months after the determination is made.

b. If the team decides to provide the student and, in the case of a minor or a dependent student, the student’s parents with information about school or community services in connection with chemical abuse, records created or maintained by the team about the student shall be destroyed not later than six (6) months after the student is no longer enrolled in the district.

c. Destruction of records identifying individual students shall be governed by paragraph IV.E.2. notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes section 138.163 (Preservation and Disposal of Public Records).

E. Consent

Any minor may give effective consent for medical, mental, and other health services to determine the presence of or to treat conditions associated with alcohol and other drug abuse, and the consent of no other person is required.  

V. EMPLOYEES

A. The school district shall establish a drug-free awareness program to inform employees about:

1. The dangers of drug abuse in the workplace.

2. The school district’s policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace.

3. Available drug counseling, rehabilitation, and employee assistance programs.

4. The penalties that may be imposed on employees for drug abuse violations.

B. The school district shall notify a federal granting agency required to be notified under the Drug-Free Workplace Act within ten (10) days after receiving notice from the employee or otherwise receiving actual notice of any criminal drug statute conviction occurring in the workplace.

Legal References: Minn. Stat. § 13.32 (Educational Data)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.25-121A.29 (Chemical Abuse)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.40-121A.56 (Pupil Fair Dismissal Act)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.61 (Discipline and Removal of Students from Class)

Minn. Stat. § 124D.695 (Approved Recovery Program Funding)

Minn. Stat. § 126C.44 (Safe Schools Levy)

Minn. Stat. § 138.163 (Preservation and Disposal of Public Records) 

Minn. Stat. § 144.343 (Pregnancy, Venereal Disease, Alcohol or Drug Abuse, Abortion)

Minn. Stat. § 152.01 (Definitions)

Minn. Stat. § 152.02 (Schedules of Controlled Substances; Administration of Chapter)

Minn. Stat. § 152.22 (Definitions; Medical Cannabis)

Minn. Stat. § 152.23 (Limitations; Medical Cannabis)

Minn. Stat. § 299A.33 (DARE Program)

Minn. Stat. § 466.07, subd. 1 (Indemnification Required)

Minn. Stat. § 609.101, subd. 3(e) (Controlled Substance Offenses; Minimum Fines)

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

20 U.S.C. §§ 7101-7122 (Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants

20 U.S.C. § 5812 (National Education Goals)

20 U.S.C. § 7175 (Local Activities)

41 U.S.C. §§ 8101-8106 (Drug-Free Workplace Act)

34 C.F.R. Part 84 (Government-Wide Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace)

Cross References: MSBA/MASA Model Policy 403 (Discipline, Suspension, and Dismissal of School District Employees)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 416 (Drug and Alcohol Testing)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 418 (Drug-Free Workplace/Drug Free School)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 419 (Tobacco-Free Environment; Possession and Use of Tobacco, Tobacco-Related Devices, and Electronic Delivery Devices; Vaping Awareness and Prevention Instruction)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 502 (Search of Student Lockers, Desks, Personal Possessions, and Student’s Person)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 515 (Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 527 (Student Use and Parking of Motor Vehicles; Patrols, Inspections, and Searches)

Policy417.pdf

Orig. 2006 – Rev. 2012 – Rev. 2016 - Rev 2023
Adopted October 3, 2023

418 DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE/DRUG-FREE SCHOOL

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe and healthful environment for employees and students by prohibiting the use of alcohol, toxic substances, medical cannabis, nonintoxicating cannabinoids, edible cannabinoid products, and controlled substances without a physician’s prescription.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. Use or possession of alcohol, toxic substances, medical cannabis, nonintoxicating cannabinoids, edible cannabinoid products, and controlled substances before, during, or after school hours, at school or in any other school location, is prohibited as general policy.  Paraphernalia associated with controlled substances is prohibited.

B. A violation of this policy occurs when any student, teacher, administrator, other school district personnel, or member of the public uses or possesses alcohol, toxic substances, medical cannabis, nonintoxicating cannabinoids, edible cannabinoid products, or controlled substances in any school location.

C. An individual may not use or possess cannabis flower, cannabis products, lower-potency hemp edibles, or hemp-derived consumer products in a public school, as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 120A.05, subdivisions 9, 11, and 13, including all facilities, whether owned, rented, or leased, and all vehicles that the district owns, leases, rents, contracts for, or controls.

D. The school district will act to enforce this policy and to discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, school personnel, or member of the public who violates this policy.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Alcohol” includes any alcoholic beverage containing more than one-half of one percent alcohol by volume.

B. “Controlled substances” include narcotic drugs, hallucinogenic drugs, amphetamines, barbiturates, marijuana, anabolic steroids, or any other controlled substance as defined in Schedules I through V of the Controlled Substances Act, 21 United States Code section 812, including analogues and look-alike drugs.

C. “Edible cannabinoid product” means any product that is intended to be eaten or consumed as a beverage by humans, contains a cannabinoid in combination with food ingredients, and is not a drug.

D. “Nonintoxicating cannabinoid” means substances extracted from certified hemp plants that do not produce intoxicating effects when consumed by injection, inhalation, ingestion, or by any other immediate means. 

E. “Medical cannabis” means any species of the genus cannabis plant, or any mixture or preparation of them, including whole plant extracts and resins, and is delivered in the form of: (1) liquid, including, but not limited to, oil; (2) pill; (3) vaporized delivery method with use of liquid or oil but which does not require the use of dried leaves or plant form; (4) combustion with use of dried raw cannabis; or (5) any other method approved by the commissioner.

F. “Possess” means to have on one’s person, in one’s effects, or in an area subject to one’s control.

G. “School location” includes any school building or on any school premises; in any school-owned vehicle or in any other school-approved vehicle used to transport students to and from school or school activities; off school property at any school-sponsored or school-approved activity, event, or function, such as a field trip or athletic event, where students are under the jurisdiction of the school district; or during any period of time such employee is supervising students on behalf of the school district or otherwise engaged in school district business.

H. “Sell” means to sell, give away, barter, deliver, exchange, distribute or dispose of to another, or to manufacture; or to offer or agree to perform such an act, or to possess with intent to perform such an act.

I. “Toxic substances” includes: (1) glue, cement, aerosol paint, containing toluene, benzene, xylene, amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, nitrous oxide, or containing other aromatic hydrocarbon solvents, but does not include glue, cement, or paint contained in a packaged kit for the construction of a model automobile, airplane, or similar item; (2) butane or a butane lighter; or (3) any similar substance declared to be toxic to the central nervous system and to have a potential for abuse, by a rule adopted by the commissioner of health.

J. “Use” means to sell, buy, manufacture, distribute, dispense, be under the influence of, or consume in any manner, including, but not limited to, consumption by injection, inhalation, ingestion, or by any other immediate means. 

IV. EXCEPTIONS

A. A violation of this policy does not occur when a person brings onto a school location, for such person’s own use, a controlled substance, except medical cannabis, non intoxicating cannabinoids, or edible cannabinoid products, which has a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States and the person has a physician’s prescription for the substance.  The person shall comply with the relevant procedures of this policy.

B. A violation of this policy does not occur when a person possesses an alcoholic beverage in a school location when the possession is within the exceptions of Minnesota Statutes section 624.701, subdivision 1a (experiments in laboratories; pursuant to a temporary license to sell liquor issued under Minnesota laws or possession after the purchase from such a temporary license holder).

C. A violation of this policy does not occur when a person uses or possesses a toxic substance unless they do so with the intent of inducing or intentionally aiding another in inducing intoxication, excitement, or stupefaction of the central nervous system, except under the direction and supervision of a medical doctor.  

V. PROCEDURES

A. Students who have a prescription from a physician for medical treatment with a controlled substance, except medical cannabis, non intoxicating cannabinoids, or edible cannabinoid products, must comply with the school district’s student medication policy.

B. Employees who have a prescription from a physician for medical treatment with a controlled substance, except medical cannabis, nonintoxicating cannabinoids, or edible cannabinoid products, are permitted to possess such controlled substance and associated necessary paraphernalia, such as an inhaler or syringe.  The employee must inform his or her supervisor.  The employee may be required to provide a copy of the prescription.

C. Each employee shall be provided with written notice of this Drug-Free Workplace/Drug-Free School policy and shall be required to acknowledge that he or she has received the policy.

D. Employees are subject to the school district’s drug and alcohol testing policies and procedures.

E. Members of the public are not permitted to possess controlled substances, nonintoxicating cannabinoids, or edible cannabinoid products, in a school location except with the express permission of the superintendent.

F. No person is permitted to possess or use medical cannabis, nonintoxicating cannabinoids, or edible cannabinoid products, on a school bus or van; or on the grounds of any preschool or primary or secondary school; or on the grounds of any child care facility.  This prohibition includes (1) vaporizing or combusting medical cannabis on any form of public transportation where the vapor or smoke could be inhaled by a minor child or in any public place, including indoor or outdoor areas used by or open to the general public or place of employment; and (2) operating, navigating, or being in actual physical control of any motor vehicle or working on transportation property, equipment or facilities while under the influence of medial cannabis, nonintoxicating cannabinoids, or edible cannabinoid products.

G. Possession of alcohol on school grounds pursuant to the exceptions of Minnesota Statutes section 624.701, subdivision 1a, shall be by permission of the school board only.  The applicant shall apply for permission in writing and shall follow the school board procedures for placing an item on the agenda.

VI. SCHOOL PROGRAMS

A. Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, the school district must implement a comprehensive education program on cannabis use and substance use, including but not limited to the use of fentanyl or mixtures containing fentanyl, for students in middle school and high school. The program must include instruction on the topics listed in Minnesota Statutes, section 120B.215, subdivision 1 and must:

1. respect community values and encourage students to communicate with parents, guardians, and other trusted adults about cannabis use and substance use, including but not limited to the use of fentanyl or mixtures containing fentanyl; and

2. refer students to local resources where students may obtain medically accurate information about cannabis use and substance use, including but not limited to the use of fentanyl or mixtures containing fentanyl, and treatment for a substance use disorder.

B. School district efforts to develop, implement, or improve instruction of curriculum as a result of  the provisions of this section must be consistent with Minnesota Statutes, sections 120B.10 and 120B.11.

C. Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the school district shall have a procedure for a parent, a guardian, or an adult student 18 years of age or older to review the content of the instructional materials to be provided to a minor child or to an adult student pursuant to this article.  The district must allow a parent of adult student to opt out of instruction under this article with no academic or other penalty for the student and must inform parents and adult students of this right to opt out.  

VII. ENFORCEMENT

A. Students

1. Students may be required to participate in programs and activities that provide education against the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, smokeless tobacco products, electronic cigarettes, and nonintoxicating cannabinoids, and edible cannabinoid products,

2. Students may be referred to drug or alcohol assistance or rehabilitation programs; school based mental health services, mentoring and counseling, including early identification of mental health symptoms, drug use and violence and appropriate referral to direct individual or group counseling service. which may be provided by school based mental health services providers; and/or referral to law enforcement officials when appropriate.

3. A student who violates the terms of this policy shall be subject to discipline in accordance with the school district’s discipline policy.  Such discipline may include suspension or expulsion from school.

B. Employees

1. As a condition of employment in any federal grant, each employee who is engaged either directly or indirectly in performance of a federal grant shall abide by the terms of this policy and shall notify his or her supervisor in writing of his or her conviction of any criminal drug statute for a violation occurring in any of the places listed above on which work on a school district federal grant is performed, no later than five (5) calendar days after such conviction.  Conviction means a finding of guilt (including a plea of nolo contendere) or imposition of sentence, or both, by any judicial body charged with the responsibility to determine violations of the federal or state criminal drug statutes.

2. An employee who violates the terms of this policy is subject to disciplinary action, including nonrenewal, suspension, termination, or discharge as deemed appropriate by the school board.

3. In addition, any employee who violates the terms of this policy may be required to satisfactorily participate in a drug and/or alcohol abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved by the school district.  Any employee who fails to satisfactorily participate in and complete such a program is subject to nonrenewal, suspension, or termination as deemed appropriate by the school board.

4. Sanctions against employees, including nonrenewal, suspension, termination, or discharge shall be pursuant to and in accordance with applicable statutory authority, collective bargaining agreements, and school district policies.

C. The Public

A member of the public who violates this policy shall be informed of the policy and asked to leave.  If necessary, law enforcement officials will be notified and asked to provide an escort.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 120B.215 (Education Cannabis Use and Substance Use)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.22 (Administration of Drugs and Medicine)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.40-§ 121A.56 (Pupil Fair Dismissal Act)

Minn. Stat. § 151.72 (Sale of Certain Cannabinoid Products)

Minn. Stat. § 152.01, Subd. 15a (Definitions)

Minn. Stat. § 152.0264 (Cannabis Sale Crimes)

Minn. Stat. § 152.22, subd. 6 (Definitions; Medical Cannabis)

Minn. Stat. § 152.23 (Limitations; Medical Cannabis)

Minn. Stat. § 169A.31 (Alcohol-Related School Bus or Head Start Bus Driving)

Minn. Stat. § 340A.101 (Definitions; Alcoholic Beverage)

Minn. Stat. § 340A.403 (3.2 Percent Malt Liquor Licenses)

Minn. Stat. § 340A.404 (Intoxicating Liquor; On-Sale Licenses)

Minn. Stat. § 342.09 (Personal Adult Use of Cannibus)

Minn. Stat. § 342.56 (Limitations)

Minn. Stat. § 609.684 (Abuse of Toxic Substances)

Minn. Stat. § 624.701 (Alcohol in Certain Buildings or Grounds)

20 U.S.C. § 7101-7122 (Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants)

21 U.S.C. § 812 (Schedules of Controlled Substances)

41 U.S.C. §§ 8101-8106 (Drug-Free Workplace Act)

21 C.F.R. §§ 1308.11-1308.15 (Controlled Substances)

34 C.F.R. Part 84 (Government-Wide Requirements for Drug-Free Workplace)

Cross References: MSBA/MASA Model Policy 403 (Discipline, Suspension, and Dismissal of School 

District Employees)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 416 (Drug and Alcohol Testing)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 417 (Chemical Use and Abuse)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 419 (Tobacco-Free Environment; Possession and use of Tobacco, Tobacco-Related Devices, and Electronic Delivery Devices; Vaping Awareness and Prevention Instruction)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 516 (Student Medication)

Policy418.pdf

-- Acknowledgement --

Chemical-Free Workplace/Chemical-Free School Policy

I have received a copy of the Chemical-Free Workplace/Chemical-Free School Policy of St. Anthony-New Brighton District 282, in St. Anthony, Minnesota.

Dated:

Signature of Employee/Applicant:

Type or Printed Name:

Policy418Form.pdf

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 419
Orig. 1995
Revised: 2023
Revised: October 2024

419 TOBACCO-FREE ENVIRONMENT; POSSESSION AND USE OF TOBACCO, TOBACCO-RELATED DEVICES, AND ELECTRONIC DELIVERY DEVICES; VAPING AWARENESS AND PREVENTION INSTRUCTION 

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to maintain a learning and working environment that is tobacco free.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A.    A violation of this policy occurs when any student, teacher, administrator, other school personnel of the school district, or person smokes or uses tobacco, tobacco-related devices, or carries or uses an activated electronic delivery device in a public school.  This prohibition extends to all facilities, whether owned, rented, or leased, and all vehicles that a school district owns, leases, rents, contracts for, or controls.  In addition, this prohibition includes vehicles used, in whole or in part, for work purposes, during hours of school operation, if more than one person is present.  This prohibition includes all school district property and all off-campus events sponsored by the school district.

B.    A violation of this policy occurs when any elementary school, middle school, or secondary school student possesses any type of tobacco, tobacco-related devices, or electronic delivery devices in a public school.  This prohibition extends to all facilities, whether owned, rented, or leased, and all vehicles that a school district owns, leases, rents, contracts for, or controls and includes vehicles used, in whole or in part, for school purposes, during hours of school operation, if more than one person is present.  This prohibition includes all school district property and all off-campus events sponsored by the school district.

C.    The school district will act to enforce this policy and to discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, school personnel, or person who is found to have violated this policy.

D.    The school district will not solicit or accept any contributions or gifts of money, curricula, materials, or equipment from companies that directly manufacture and are identified with tobacco products, tobacco-related devices, or electronic delivery devices.  The school district will not promote or allow promotion of tobacco products or electronic delivery devices on school property or at school-sponsored events.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Electronic delivery device” means any product containing or delivering nicotine, lobelia, or any other substance, whether natural or synthetic, intended for human consumption that can be used by a person to simulate smoking in the delivery of nicotine or any other substance through inhalation of aerosol or vapor from the product.  Electronic delivery devices includes but is not limited to devices manufactured, marketed, or sold as electronic cigarettes, electronic cigars, electronic pipe, vape pens, modes, tank systems, or under any other product name or descriptor. Electronic delivery device includes any component part of a product, whether or not marketed or sold separately.  Electronic delivery device excludes drugs, devices, or combination products, as those terms are defined in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, that are authorized for sale by the United States Food and Drug Administratio

B. “Heated tobacco product” means a tobacco product that produces aerosols containing nicotine and other chemicals which are inhaled by users through the mouth.

C.    “Tobacco” means cigarettes and any product containing, made, or derived from tobacco that is intended for human consumption, whether chewed, smoked, absorbed, dissolved, inhaled, snorted, sniffed, or ingested by any other means, or any component, part, or accessory of a tobacco product, including, but not limited to, cigars; cheroots; stogies; perique; granulated, plug cut, crimp cut, ready rubbed, and other smoking tobacco; snuff; snuff flour; cavendish; plug and twist tobacco; fine cut and other chewing tobacco; shorts; refuse scraps, clippings, cuttings and sweepings of tobacco; and other kinds and forms of tobacco. Tobacco excludes any drugs, devices, or combination products, as those terms are defined in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, that are authorized for sale by the United States Food and Drug Administration.

D.    “Tobacco-related devices” means cigarette papers or pipes for smoking or other devices intentionally designed or intended to be used in a manner which enables the chewing, sniffing, smoking, or inhalation of vapors aerosol or vapor of tobacco or tobacco products.  Tobacco-related devices include components of tobacco-related devices which may be marketed or sold separately.

E.    “Smoking” means inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted or heated cigar, cigarette, pipe, or any other lighted or heated product containing, made, or derived from nicotine, tobacco, marijuana, or other plant, whether natural or synthetic, that is intended for inhalation.  Smoking includes carrying or using an activated electronic delivery device.

F.    “Vaping” means using an activated electronic delivery device or heated tobacco product

IV. EXCEPTIONS

A violation of this policy does not occur when a Native American adult lights tobacco on school district property as a part of a traditional Native American spiritual or cultural ceremony.  An [American Indian] student may carry a medicine pouch containing loose tobacco intended as observance of traditional spiritual or cultural practices. A Native American is a person who is a member of an Indian tribe as defined under Minnesota law, a person whose child is participating in the district’s American Indian education program, or a person performing the ceremony at the invitation of the district, building, or the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee.

    B.    A violation of this policy does not occur when an adult nonstudent possesses a tobacco or nicotine product that has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for sale as a tobacco-cessation product, as a tobacco-dependence product, or for other medical purposes, and is being marketed and sold solely for such an approved purpose.  Nothing in this exception authorizes smoking or use of tobacco, tobacco-related devices, or electronic delivery devices on school property or at off-campus events sponsored by the school district.

An American Indian student or staff member may use tobacco, sage, sweetgrass, and cedar to conduct individual or group smudging in a public school. The process for conducting smudging is determined by the building or site administrator. Smudging must be conducted under the direct supervision of an appropriate staff member, as determined by the building or site administrator.

V. VAPING PREVENTION INSTRUCTION

A. The school district must provide vaping prevention instruction at least once to students in grades 6 through 8. 

 B. The school district may use instructional materials based upon the Minnesota Department of Health’s school e-cigarette toolkit or may use other smoking prevention instructional materials with a focus on vaping and the use of electronic delivery devices and heated tobacco products. The instruction may be provided as part of the school district’s locally developed health standards.

VI. ENFORCEMENT

A.    All individuals on school premises shall adhere to this policy.

B.    Persons who violate this tobacco-free policy may be referred to the building administration or other school district supervisory personnel responsible for the area or program at which the violation occurred.

C.    Students who violate this tobacco-free policy shall be subject to school district discipline procedures.

D.    School district administrators and other school personnel who violate this tobacco-free policy shall be subject to school district discipline procedures.

E.    School district action taken for violation of this policy will be consistent with requirements of applicable collective bargaining agreements, Minnesota or federal law, and school district policies.

F.    School administrators may call the local law enforcement agency to assist with enforcement of this policy.  Smoking or use of any tobacco product in a public school is a violation of the Minnesota Clean Indoor Air Act and/or the Freedom to Breathe Act of 2007 and is a petty misdemeanor.  A court injunction may be instituted against a repeated violator.

G.    No persons shall be discharged, refused to be hired, penalized, discriminated against, or in any manner retaliated against for exercising any right to a smoke-free environment provided by the Freedom to Breathe Act of 2007 or other law.

VII. DISSEMINATION OF POLICY

A. This policy shall appear in the student handbook.

B. The school district will develop a method of discussing this policy with students and employees.

Legal References: Minn. Stat. § 120B.238 (Vaping Awareness and Prevention)
            Minn. Stat. § 121A.08 (Smudging Permitted)
            Minn. Stat. §§ 144.411-144.417 (Minnesota Clean Indoor Air Act)
Minn. Stat. § 609.685 (Sale of Tobacco to Persons Under Age 21)
            2007 Minn. Laws Ch. 82 (Freedom to Breathe Act of 2007

Cross References: MSBA/MASA Model Policy 403 (Discipline, Suspension, and Dismissal of School District Employees)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 420
Orig. 1995 Revised: Rev. 2015 Rev.2016
Adopted November 1, 2016

420 STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES WITH SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AND DISEASES AND CERTAIN OTHER COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AND INFECTIOUS CONDITIONS

I. PURPOSE

Public concern that students and staff of the school district be able to attend the schools of the district without becoming infected with serious communicable or infectious diseases, including, but not limited to, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), Hepatitis B, and Tuberculosis, requires that the school board adopt measures effectively responding to health concerns while respecting the rights of all students, employees, and contractors, including those who are so infected. The purpose of this policy is to adopt such measures.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. Students

The policy of the school board is that students with communicable diseases not be excluded from attending school in their usual daily attendance setting so long as their health permits and their attendance does not create a significant risk of the transmission of illness to students or employees of the school district. A procedure for minimizing interruptions to learning resulting from communicable diseases will be established by the school district in its IEP and Section 504 team process, if applicable, and in consultation with community health and private health care providers. Procedures for the inclusion of students with communicable diseases will include any applicable educational team planning processes, including the review of the educational implications for the student and others with whom the student comes into contact.

B. Employees

The policy of the school board is that employees with communicable diseases not be excluded from attending to their customary employment so long as they are physically, mentally, and emotionally able to safely perform tasks assigned to them and so long as their employment does not create a significant risk of the transmission of illness to students, employees, or others in the school district. If a reasonable accommodation will eliminate the significant risk of transmission, such accommodation will be undertaken unless it poses an undue hardship to the school district.

C. Circumstances and Conditions

1. Determinations of whether a contagious individual’s school attendance or job performance creates a significant risk of the transmission of the illness to students or employees of the school district will be made on a case by case basis. Such decisions will be based upon the nature of the risk (how it is transmitted), the duration of the risk (how long the carrier is infectious), the severity of the risk (what is the potential harm to third parties), and the probabilities the disease will be transmitted and will cause varying degrees of harm. When a student is disabled, such a determination will be made in consultation with the educational planning team.

2. The school board recognizes that some students and some employees, because of special circumstances and conditions, may pose greater risks for the transmission of infectious conditions than other persons infected with the same illness. Examples include students who display biting behavior, students or employees who are unable to control their bodily fluids, who have oozing skin lesions, or who have severe disorders which result in spontaneous external bleeding. These conditions need to be taken into account and considered in assessing the risk of transmission of the disease and the resulting effect upon the educational program of the student or employment of the employee by consulting with the Commissioner of Health, the physician of the student or employee, and the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student.

D. Students with Special Circumstances and Conditions

The school district nurse, along with the infected individual’s physician, the infected individual or parent(s)/guardian(s), and others, if appropriate, will weigh risks and benefits to the student and to others, consider the least restrictive appropriate educational placement, and arrange for periodic reevaluation as deemed necessary by the state epidemiologist. The risks to the student shall be determined by the student’s physician.

E. Extracurricular Student Participation

Student participation in nonacademic, extracurricular, and non-educational programs of the school district are subject to a requirement of equal access and comparable services.

F. Precautions

The school district will develop routine procedures for infection control at school and for educating employees about these procedures. The procedures shall be developed through cooperation with health professionals taking into consideration any guidelines of the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota Department of Health. (These precautionary procedures shall be consistent with the school district’s procedures regarding blood-borne pathogens developed pursuant to the school district’s employee right to know policy.)

G. Information Sharing

1. Employee and student health information shall be shared within the school district only with those whose jobs require such information and with those who have a legitimate educational interest (including health and safety) in such information and shall be shared only to the extent required to accomplish legitimate educational goals and to comply with employees’ right to know requirements.

2. Employee and student health data shall be shared outside the school district only in accordance with state and federal law and with the school district’s policies on employee and student records and data.

H. Reporting

If a medical condition of student or staff threatens public health, it must be reported to the Commissioner of Health.

I. Prevention

The school district shall, with the assistance of the Commissioners of Health and Education, implement a program to prevent and reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases in accordance with Minn. Stat. § 121A.23 which includes:

1. planning materials, guidelines, and other technically accurate and updated information;

2. a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate, technically accurate, and updated curriculum that includes helping students to abstain from sexual activity until marriage;

3. cooperation and coordination among school districts and Service Cooperatives;

4. a targeting of adolescents, especially those who may be at high risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases and infections, for prevention efforts;

5. involvement of parents and other community members;

6. collaboration with state agencies and organizations having a sexually transmitted infection and disease prevention or sexually transmitted infection and disease risk reduction program;

7. collaboration with local community health services, agencies and organizations having a sexually transmitted infection and disease risk reduction program; and

8. participation by state and local student organizations.

9. The program must be consistent with the health and wellness curriculum.

10. The school district may accept funds for sexually transmitted infection and disease prevention programs developed and implemented under this section from public and private sources, including public health funds and foundations, department professional development funds, federal block grants, or other federal or state grants.

J. Vaccination and Screening

The school district will develop procedures regarding the administration of Hepatitis B vaccinations and Tuberculosis screenings in keeping with current state and federal law. The procedures shall provide that the Hepatitis B vaccination series be offered to all who have occupational exposure at no cost to the employee.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 121A.23 (Health-Related Programs)
Minn. Stat. § 144.441-442 (Tuberculosis)
Minn. Stat. Ch. 363A (Minnesota Human Rights Act)
20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq. (Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004)
29 U.S.C. § 794 et seq. (Rehabilitation Act of 1973, § 504)
42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq. (Americans with Disabilities Act)
29 C.F.R. 1910.1030 (Occupational Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens)
Kohl by Kohl v. Woodhaven Learning Center, 865 F.2d 930 (8th Cir.), cert. denied, 493 U.S. 892, 110 S.Ct. 239 (1989)
School Board of Nassau County, Fla. v. Arline, 480 U.S. 273, 107 S.Ct. 1123 (1987)
16 EHLR 712, OCR Staff Memo, April 5, 1990

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 402 (Disability Nondiscrimination)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 407 (Employee Right to Know – Exposure to Hazardous Substances)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 521 (Student Disability Nondiscrimination)

Policy420.pdf

Adopted: June 5, 2012

421 GIFTS TO EMPLOYEES

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to avoid the appearance of impropriety or the appearance of a conflict of interest with respect to gifts given to school district employees.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The school district recognizes that students, parents, and others may wish to show appreciation to school district employees. It is the policy of the school district, however, to discourage gift-giving to employees, and to encourage donors instead to write letters and notes of appreciation or to give small tokens of gratitude as memorabilia.

B. It shall be a violation of this policy for any employee to solicit, accept, or receive either by direct or indirect means, a gift from a student, parent, or other individual or organization of greater than nominal value.

C. It shall be a violation of this policy for any employee to solicit, accept, or receive a gift from a person or entity doing business with or seeking to do business with the school district. Employees may accept items of insignificant value of a promotional or public relations nature. The superintendent has discretion to determine what value is “insignificant.”

D. Teachers may accept from publishers free samples of textbooks and related teaching materials.

E. This policy applies only to gifts given to employees where the donor’s relationship with the employee arises out of the employee’s employment with the school district. It does not apply to gifts given to employees by personal friends, family members, other employees, or others unconnected to the employee’s employment with the school district.

III. DEFINITION

“Gift” means money, real or personal property, a service, a loan, a forbearance or forgiveness of indebtedness, or a promise of future employment, that is given without something of equal or greater value being received in return.

IV. PROCEDURES

Any employee considering the acceptance of a gift shall confer with the administration for guidance related to the interpretation and application of this policy.

V. VIOLATIONS

Employees who violate the provisions of this policy may be subject to discipline, which may include reprimand, suspension, and/or termination or discharge.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 10A.07 (Conflicts of Interest)
Minn. Stat. § 10A.071 (Prohibition of Gifts)
Minn. Stat. § 15.43 (Acceptance of Advantage by State Employee; Penalty)
Minn. Stat. § 471.895 (Certain Gifts by Interested Persons Prohibited)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 209 (Code of Ethics)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 210 (Conflict of Interest – School Board Members)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 306 (Administrator Code of Ethics)

Policy421.pdf

Adopted: November 3, 2009
Revised: December 1, 2020

422 POLICIES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

PURPOSE

Certain policies as contained in this policy reference manual are applicable to employees as well as to students. In order to avoid undue duplication, the school district provides notice by this section of the application and incorporation by reference of the following policies which also apply to employees:

• Model Policy 102 Equal Educational Opportunity
• Model Policy 103 Complaints – Students, Employees, Parents, Other Persons
• Model Policy 206 Public Participation in School Board Meetings/Complaints about Persons at School Board Meetings and Data Privacy Considerations
• Model Policy 211 Criminal or Civil Action Against School District, School Board Member, Employee, or Student
• Model Policy 305 Policy Implementation
• Model Policy 505 Distribution of Non-school-Sponsored Materials on School Premises by Students and Employees
• Model Policy 507 Corporal Punishment
• Model Policy 510 Student Activities
• Model Policy 511 Student Fundraising
• Model Policy 517 Student Recruiting
• Model Policy 518 DNR-DNI Orders
• Model Policy 519 Interviews of Students by Outside Agencies
• Model Policy 522 Nondiscrimination of Students Based on Gender (Title IX)
• Model Policy 524 Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy
• Model Policy 525 Violence Prevention
• Model Policy 610 Field Trips
• Model Policy 710 Extracurricular Transportation
• Model Policy 711 Videotaping on School Buses
• Model Policy 712 Video Surveillance Other Than on Bus
• Model Policy 802 Disposition of Obsolete Equipment and Material

Employees are charged with notice that the above cited policies are also applicable to employees; however, employees are also on notice that the provisions of the various policies speak for themselves and may be applicable although not specifically listed above.

Legal References:

Cross References:

Policy422.pdf

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 423
Original 2009 Revised December 1, 2015

423 EMPLOYEE - STUDENT RELATIONSHIPS

I. PURPOSE

The school district is committed to an educational environment in which all students are treated with respect and dignity. Every school district employee is to provide students with appropriate guidance, understanding, and direction while maintaining a standard of professionalism and acting within accepted standards of conduct.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. This policy applies to all school district employees at all times, whether on or off duty and on or off of school district locations.

B. At all times, students will be treated by teachers and other school district employees with respect, courtesy, and consideration and in a professional manner. Each school district employee is expected to exercise good judgment and professionalism in all interpersonal relationships with students. Such relationships must be and remain on a teacher-student basis or an employee student basis.

C. Teachers must be mindful of their inherent positions of authority and influence over students. Similarly, other school district employees also may hold positions of authority over students of the school district and must be mindful of their authority and influence over students.

D. Sexual relationships between school district employees and students, without regard to the age of the student, are strictly forbidden and may subject the employee to criminal liability.

E. Other actions that violate this policy include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Dating students.

2. Having any interaction/activity of a sexual nature with a student.

3. Committing or attempting to induce students or others to commit an illegal act or act of immoral conduct which may be harmful to others or bring discredit to the school district.

4. Supplying alcohol or any illegal substance to a student, allowing a student access to such substances, or failing to take reasonable steps to prevent such access from occurring.

F. School district employees shall, whenever possible, employ safeguards against improper relationships with students and/or claims of such improper relationships.

G. Excessive informal and social involvement with individual students is unprofessional, is not compatible with employee-student relationships, and is inappropriate.

H. School district employees will adhere to applicable standards of ethics and professional conduct in Minnesota law.

III. REPORTING AND INVESTIGATION

A. Complaints and/or concerns regarding alleged violations of this policy shall be handled in accordance with MSBA/MASA Model Policy 103 (Complaints – Students, Employees, Parents, Other Persons) unless other specific complaint procedures are provided within any other policy of the school district.

B. All employees shall cooperate with any investigation of alleged acts, conduct, or communications in violation of this policy.

IV. SCHOOL DISTRICT ACTION

Upon receipt of a report, the school district will take appropriate action. Such action may include, but is not limited to, warning, suspension, exclusion, expulsion, transfer, remediation, termination, or discharge. It also may include reporting to appropriate state or federal authorities, including the Board of Teaching or the appropriate licensing authority and appropriate agencies responsible for investigating reports of maltreatment of minors and/or vulnerable adults. School district action taken for violation of this policy will be consistent with requirements of applicable collective bargaining agreements, Minnesota and federal law, and school district policies.

V. SCOPE OF LIABILITY

Employees are placed on notice that if an employee acts outside the performance of the duties of the position for which the employee is employed or is guilty of malfeasance, willful neglect of duty, or bad faith, the school district is not required to defend and indemnify the employee for damages in school-related litigation.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 13.43, Subd. 16 (School District or Charter School Disclosure of Violence or Inappropriate Sexual Contact)
Minn. Stat. § 122A.20, Subd 2 (Mandatory Reporting to Minnesota Board 423-3 of Teaching)
Minn. Stat. § 122A.40, Subds. 5(b) and 13(b) (Mandatory immediate discharge of teachers with license revocations due to child or sex abuse convictions)
Minn. Stat. §§ 609.341-609.352 (Defining “intimate parts” and “position of authority” as well as detailing various sex offenses)
Minn. Stat. § 626.556 (Reporting of Maltreatment of Minors)
Minn. Stat. § 626.557 (Reporting of Maltreatment of Vulnerable Adults)
Minn. Rules Part 3512.5200 (Code of Ethics for School Administrators)
Minn. Rules Part 8700.7500 (Code of Ethics for Minnesota Teachers)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 103 (Complaints – Students, Employees, Parents, Other Persons)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 211 (Criminal or Civil Action Against School District, School Board Member, Employee, or Student)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 306 (Administrator Code of Ethics)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 403 (Discipline, Suspension, and Dismissal of School District Employees)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 413 (Harassment and Violence)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 414 (Mandated Reporting of Child Neglect or Physical or Sexual Abuse)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 415 (Mandated Reporting of Maltreatment of Vulnerable Adults)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 421 (Gifts to Employees and School Board Members)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 507 (Corporal Punishment)

Policy423.pdf

Adopted: November 3, 2009 Revised: October 3, 2023

424 LICENSE STATUS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that qualified teachers are employed by the school district and to fulfill its duty to ascertain the licensure status of its teachers.  A school board that employs a teacher who does not hold a valid teaching license or permit places itself at risk for a reduction in state aid.  This policy does not negate a teacher’s duty and responsibility to maintain a current and valid teaching license.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. A qualified teacher is one holding a valid license to perform the particular service for which the teacher is employed by the school district.

B. No person shall be a qualified teacher until the school district verifies, through the Minnesota education licensing system available on the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board website, that the person is a qualified teacher consistent with state law.

C. The school district has a duty to ascertain the licensure status of its teachers and ensure that the school district’s teacher license files are up to date.  The school district shall establish a procedure for annually reviewing its teacher license files to verify that every teacher’s license is current and appropriate to the particular service for which the teacher is employed by the school district.  

D. The school district must annually report to the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board: (1) all new teacher hires and terminations, including layoffs, by race and ethnicity; and (2) the reasons for all teacher resignations and requested leaves of absence.  The report must not include data that would personally identify individuals.

III. PROCEDURE

A. The superintendent or the superintendent’s designee shall establish a schedule for the annual review of teacher licenses.  

B. Where it is discovered that a teacher’s license will expire within one year from the date of the annual review, the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee will advise the teacher in writing of the approaching expiration and that the teacher must complete the renewal process and file the license with the superintendent prior to the expiration of the current license.   However, failure to provide this notice does not relieve a teacher from his/her duty and responsibility of ensuring that his/her teaching license is valid, current and appropriate to his/her teaching assignment.

C. If it is discovered that a teacher’s license has expired, the superintendent will immediately investigate the circumstances surrounding the lack of license and will take appropriate action.  The teacher shall be advised that the teacher’s failure to have the license reinstated will constitute gross insubordination, inefficiency and willful neglect of duty which are grounds for immediate discharge from employment.

D. The duty and responsibility of maintaining a current and valid teaching license appropriate to the teaching assignment as required by this policy shall remain with the teacher, notwithstanding the superintendent’s failure to discover a lapsed license or license that does not support the teaching assignment.   A teacher’s failure to comply with this policy may be grounds for the teacher’s immediate discharge from employment.
 

Legal References: Minn. Stat. § 122A.16 (Qualified Teacher Defined)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.22 (District Verification of Teacher Licenses)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.40 (Employment; Contracts; Termination – Immediate Discharge)

Minn. Stat. § 127A.42 (Reduction of Aid for Violation of Law)

Vettleson v. Special Sch. Dist. No. 1, 361 N.W.2d 425 (Minn. App. 1985)

Lucio v. School Bd. of Independent Sch. Dist. No. 625, 574 N.W.2d 737 (Minn. App. 1998)

In the Matter of the Proposed Discharge of John R. Statz (Christine D. VerPloeg), June 8, 1992, affirmed, 1993 WL 129639 (Minn. App. 1993)

Cross References: None

Adopted: June 5, 2012

Revised: October 3, 2023

425 STAFF DEVELOPMENT AND MENTORING

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to establish a staff development program and structure to carry out planning and reporting on staff development that supports improved student learning.

II. ADVISORY STAFF DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE AND SITE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TEAMS

A. The school board will establish an Advisory Staff Development Committee to develop a Staff Development Plan, assist Site Professional Development Teams in developing a site plan consistent with the goals of the Staff Development Plan, and evaluate staff development efforts at the site level.

1. The majority of the membership of the Advisory Staff Development Committee shall consist of teachers representing various grade levels, subject areas, and special education. The Committee also will include nonteaching staff, parents, and administrators.

2. Members of the Advisory Staff Development Committee shall be appointed by the school board. Committee members shall serve a two-year term* based upon nominations by board members, teachers, and paraprofessionals. The school board shall appoint replacement members of the Advisory Staff Development Committee as soon as possible following the resignation, death, serious illness, or removal of a member from the Committee.

B. The  school board will establish the Site Professional Development Teams.

1. Members of the Site Professional Development Teams will be appointed by the  school board . Team members shall serve a two-year term* based upon nominations by board members, teachers, and paraprofessionals. The  school board shall appoint replacement members of the Site Professional Development Teams as soon as possible following the resignation, death, serious illness, or removal of a member from the Team.

2. The majority of the Site Professional Development Teams shall be teachers representing various grade levels, subject areas, and special education.

III. DUTIES OF THE ADVISORY STAFF DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

A. The Advisory Staff Development Committee will develop a Staff Development Plan that will be reviewed and subject to approval by the  school board twice a year.

B. The Staff Development Plan must contain the following elements:

1. Staff development outcomes that are consistent with the education outcomes as may be determined periodically by the  school board ;

2. The means to achieve the Staff Development outcomes; 

3. The procedures for evaluating progress at each school site toward meeting educational outcomes consistent with relicensure requirements under Minnesota Statutes, section 122A.18, subdivision. 4187;

4. Ongoing staff development activities that contribute toward continuous improvement in achievement of the following goals:

a. Improve student achievement of state and local education standards in all areas of the curriculum, including areas of regular academic and applied and experiential learning, by using research-based best practices methods;

b. Effectively meet the needs of a diverse student population, including at-risk children, children with disabilities, Multilingual Learner, and gifted children, within the regular classroom, applied and experiential learning settings, and other settings;

c. Provide an inclusive curriculum for a racially, ethnically, linguistically, and culturally diverse student population that is consistent with state education diversity rule and the district’s education diversity plan;

d. Improve staff collaboration and develop mentoring and peer coaching programs for teachers new to the school or district;

e. Effectively teach and model violence prevention policy and curriculum that address early intervention alternatives, issues of harassment, and teach nonviolent alternatives for conflict resolution; 

f. Effectively deliver digital and blended learning and curriculum and engage students with technology; and

g. Provide teachers and other members of site-based management teams with appropriate management and financial management skills.

5. The Staff Development Plan also must:

a. Support stable and productive professional communities achieved through ongoing and schoolwide progress and growth in teaching practice;

b. Emphasize coaching, professional learning communities, classroom action research, and other job-embedded models;

c. Maintain a strong subject matter focus premised on students’ learning goals consistent with Minnesota. Statutes section 120B.125;

d. Ensure specialized preparation and learning about issues related to teaching Multilingual Learners and students with special needs by focusing on long-term systemic efforts to improve educational services and opportunities and raise student achievement; and

e. Reinforce national and state standards of effective teaching practice.

6. Staff development activities must:

a. Focus on the school classroom and research-based strategies that improve student learning;

b. Provide opportunities for teachers to practice and improve their instructional skills over time;

c. Provide opportunities for teachers to use student data as part of their daily work to increase student achievement;

d. Enhance teacher content knowledge and instructional skills, including to accommodate the delivery of digital and blended learning and curriculum and engage students with technology;

e. Align with state and local academic standards;

f. Provide opportunities to build professional relationships, foster collaboration among principals and staff who provide instruction, and provide opportunities for teacher-to-teacher mentoring;

g. Align with the plan, if any, of the district or site for an alternative teacher professional pay system;

h. Provide teachers of Multilingual Learners, including English as a second language, and content teachers with differentiated instructional strategies critical for ensuring students long-term academic success, the means to effectively use assessment data on the academic literacy, oral academic language, and English language development of Multilingual Learners, and skills to support native and English language development across the curriculum; and

i. Provide opportunities for staff to learn about current workforce trends, the connections between workforce trends and postsecondary education, and training options, including career and technical education options.

7. Staff development activities may include curriculum development and curriculum training programs and activities that provide teachers and other members of site-based teams training to enhance team performance.

8. The school district may implement other staff development activities required by law and activities associated with professional teacher compensation models.

C. The Advisory Staff Development Committee will assist Site Professional Development Teams in developing a site plan consistent with the goals and outcomes of the Staff Development Plan.

D. The Advisory Staff Development Committee will evaluate staff development efforts at the site level and will report to the school board on a quarterly basis the extent to which staff at the site have met the outcomes of the Staff Development Plan.

E. In addition to developing a Staff Development Plan, the Staff Development Advisory Committee also must develop teacher mentoring programs for teachers new to the profession or school district, including teaching residents, teachers of color, teachers who are American Indian, teachers in license shortage areas, teachers with special needs, or experienced teachers in need of peer coaching.  Teacher mentoring programs must be included in or aligned with the school district's teacher evaluation and peer review processes under Minnesota Statutes, sections 122A.40, subdivision 8 or 122A.41, subdivision 5. 

F. The Advisory Staff Development Committee shall assist the school district in preparing any reports required by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) relating to staff development or teacher mentoring including, but not limited to, the reports referenced in Section VII. below.

IV. DUTIES OF THE SITE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TEAM 

A. Each Site Professional Development Team shall develop a site plan, consistent with the goals of the Staff Development Plan. The school board will review the site plans for consistency with the Staff Development Plan twice a year.*

B. The Site Professional Development Team must demonstrate to the school board the extent to which staff at the site have met the outcomes of the Staff Development Plan. The actual reports to the school board can be made by the Advisory Staff Development Committee to avoid duplication of effort.

C. If the school board determines that staff development outcomes are not being met, it may withhold a portion of the initial allocation of revenue referenced in Section V. below.

V. STAFF DEVELOPMENT FUNDING 

1. Unless the school district is in statutory operating debt or a majority of the school board and a majority of its licensed teachers annually vote to waive the requirement to reserve basic revenue for staff development, the school district will reserve an amount equal to at least two percent of its basic revenue for: (1) teacher development and evaluation under Minnesota Statutes, section 122A.40, subdivision 8 or 122A.41, subdivision 5; (2) principal development and evaluation under section 123B.147, subdivision. 3; (3) professional development under section 122A.60; (4) in-service education for programs under section 120B.22, subdivision 2; and (5) teacher mentorship under section 122A.70, subdivision 1. .  To the extent extra funds remain staff development revenue may be used for development plans, including plans for challenging instructional activities and experiences under section 122A.60, and for curriculum development and programs, other in-service education; teacher’s workshops, teacher conferences, the cost of substitute teachers for staff development purposes, preservice and in-service education for special education professionals and paraprofessionals, and other related costs for staff development efforts. The school district also may use the revenue reserved for staff development for grants to the school district’s teachers to pay for coursework and training leading to certification as either a college in the schools teacher or a concurrent enrollment teacher. To receive a grant, the teacher must be enrolled in a program that includes coursework and training focused on teaching a core subject.

2. The School District may, in its discretion, expend an additional amount of unreserved revenue for staff development based on its need

Release time provided for teachers to supervise students on field trips and school activities, or independent tasks not associated with enhancing the teacher’s knowledge and instructional skills, such as preparing report cards, calculating grades, or organizing classroom materials, may not be counted as staff development time that is financed with staff development reserved revenue under Minnesota Statutes section 122A.61.

D. The school district may use staff development revenue, special grant programs established by the legislature, or another funding source to pay a stipend to a mentor who may be a current or former teacher who has taught at least three (3) years and is not on an improvement plan.  Other initiatives using such funds. or funds available under Minnesota Statutes, sections 124D.861 and 124D.862, may include:

1. additional stipends as incentives to mentors of color or who are American Indian; 

2. financial supports for professional learning community affinity groups across schools within and between districts for teachers from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups to come together throughout the school year;

3. programs for induction aligned with the school district or school mentorship program during the first three (3) years of teaching, especially for teachers from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups; or

4. grants supporting licensed and nonlicensed educator participation in professional development, such as workshops and graduate courses, related to increasing student achievement for students of color and American Indian students in order to close opportunity and achievement gaps.

To the extent the school district receives a grant for any of the above purposes, it will negotiate additional retention strategies or protection from unrequested leave of absences in the beginning years of employment for teachers of color and teachers who are American Indian.  Retention strategies may include providing financial incentives for teachers of color and teachers who are American Indian to work in the school or district for at least five (5) years and placing American Indian educators at sites with other American Indian educators and educators of color at sites with other educators of color to reduce isolation and increase opportunity for collegial support.

VI. PROCEDURE FOR USE OF STAFF DEVELOPMENT FUNDS

A. On a yearly* basis, the Advisory Staff Development Committee, with the assistance of the Site Professional Development Teams, shall prepare a projected budget setting forth proposals for allocating staff development and mentoring funds reserved for each school site.  Such budgets shall include, but not be limited to, projections as to the cost of building site training programs, costs of individual staff seminars, and cost of substitutes.

B. Upon approval of the budget by the school board, the Advisory Committee shall be responsible for monitoring the use of such funds in accordance with the Staff Development Plan and budget. The requested use of staff development funds must meet or make progress toward the goals and objectives of the Staff Development Plan. All costs/expenditures will be reviewed by the school board and/or superintendent for consistency with the Staff Development Plan on a quarterly basis.*

C. Individual requests from staff for leave to attend staff development activities shall be submitted and reviewed according to school district policy, staff procedures, contractual agreement, and the effect on school district operations.  Failure to timely submit such requests may be cause for denial of the request.

VII. PARAPROFESSIONAL, TITLE I AIDES, AND OTHER INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT STAFF

A. The school district must provide a minimum of eight hours of paid orientation or professional development annually to all paraprofessional, Title I aides, and other instructional support staff.  Six of the eight hours must be completed before the first instructional day of the school year or within 30 days of hire.

B. The orientation or professional development must be relevant to the employee’s occupation and may include collaboration time with classroom teachers and planning for the school year.

C. For paraprofessionals who provide direct support to students, at least 50 percent of the professional development or orientation must be dedicated to meeting the requirements of this section.  Professional development for paraprofessionals may also address the requirements of the Minnesota Statutes, section 120B.363, subdivision 3.

D. A school administrator must provide an annual certification of compliance with this requirement to the MDE Commissioner.

VIII. REPORTING

1. The school district and site staff development committee shall prepare a report of the previous fiscal year’s staff development activities and expenditures as part of the school district’s world’s best workforce report.

   • The report must include assessment and evaluation data indicating progress toward district and site staff development goals based on teaching and learning outcomes, including the percentage of teachers and other staff involved in instruction who participate in effective staff development activities.

   • The report will provide a breakdown of expenditures for:

     1. Curriculum development and curriculum training programs; 

     2. Staff development training models, workshops, and conferences; and

     3. The cost of releasing teachers or providing substitute teachers for staff development purposes.

     4. The report also must indicate whether the expenditures were incurred at the district level or the school site level and whether the school site expenditures were made possible by the grants to school sites that demonstrate exemplary use of allocated staff development revenue.  These expenditures must be reported using the uniform financial and accounting and reporting standards (UFARS).

   • The report will be signed by the superintendent and staff development chair.

B. To the extent the school district receives a grant for mentorship activities described in Section V.D., by June 30 of each year after receiving a grant, the site staff development committee must submit a report to the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board on program efforts that describes mentoring and induction activities and assesses the impact of these programs on teacher effectiveness and retention.

Legal References: Minn. Stat. § 120A.41 (Length of School Year; Days of Instruction)

Minn. Stat. § 120A.415 (Extended School Calendar)

Minn. Stat. § 120B.125 (Planning for Students’ Successful Transition to Postsecondary Education and Employment; Personal Learning Plans)

Minn. Stat. § 120B.22, subd. 2 (Violence Prevention Education)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.642 (Paraprofessional Training)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.187 (Expiration and Renewal)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.40, subds. 7, 7a and 8 (Employment; Contracts; Termination - Additional Staff Development and Salary)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.41, subds. 4, 4a and 5 (Teacher Tenure Act; Cities of the First Class; Definitions - Additional Staff Development and Salary)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.60 (Staff Development Program)

Minn. Stat.122A.70 (Teacher Mentorship and Retention of Effective Teachers)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.61 (Reserved Revenue for Staff Development)

Minn. Stat. § 123B.147, subd. 3 (Principals)

Minn. Stat. § 124D.861 (Achievement and Integration for Minnesota)

Minn. Stat. § 124D.862 (Achievement and Integration Revenue)

Minn. Stat. § 126C.10, subds. 2 and 2b (General Education Revenue)

Minn. Stat. § 126C.13, subd. 5 (General Education Levy and Aid)

Cross References: None.

Adopted: Sept. 10, 2024. MSBA/MASA Model Policy 427

427    WORKLOAD LIMITS FOR CERTAIN SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS 

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to establish general parameters for determining the workload limits of special education staff who provide services to children with disabilities receiving direct special education services 60 percent or less of the instructional day.

II. DEFINITIONS

A.    Special Education Staff; Special Education Teacher

“Special education staff” and “special education teacher” both mean a teacher employed by the school district who is licensed under the rules of the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board to instruct children with specific disabling conditions.

B.    Direct Services

“Direct services” means special education services provided by a special education teacher or a related service professional when the services are related to instruction, including cooperative teaching.

C.    Indirect Services

    “Indirect services” means special education services provided by a special education teacher or a related service professional which include ongoing progress reviews; cooperative planning; consultation; demonstration teaching; modification and adaptation of the environment, curriculum, materials, or equipment; and direct contact with the pupil to monitor and observe.

D.    Workload

“Workload” means a special education teacher’s total number of minutes required for all due process responsibilities, including direct and indirect services, evaluation and reevaluation time, management of individualized education programs (IEPs), travel time, parental contact, and other services required in the IEPs.
 

III. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A.  Workload limits for special education teachers shall be determined by the appropriate special education administrator, in consultation with the building principal and the superintendent.

B.  In determining workload limits for special education staff, the school district shall take into consideration the following factors: student contact minutes, evaluation and reevaluation time, indirect services, management of IEPs, travel time, and other services required in the IEPs of eligible students.

IV. COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENT UNAFFECTED

This policy shall not be construed as a reopening of negotiations between the school district and the special education teachers’ exclusive representative, nor shall it be construed to alter or limit in any way the managerial rights or other authority of the school district set forth in the Public Employment Labor Relations Act or in the collective bargaining agreement between the school district and the special education teachers’ exclusive representative.

Legal References:    

Minn. Stat. § 179A.07, Subd. 1 (Inherent Managerial Policy)
Minn. Rule 3525.0210, Subps. 14, 27, 44, and 49 (Definitions)
Minn. Rule 3525.2340, Subp. 4.B. (Case Loads for School-Age Educational Service Alternatives)

Cross References:  MSBA/MASA Model Policy 508 (Extended School Year for Certain Students with Individualized Education Programs) MSBA/MASA Model Policy 608 (Instructional Services – Special Education)
 

Revised and Adopted August 21, 2018

501 SCHOOL WEAPONS POLICY

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to assure a safe school environment for students, staff and the public.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

No student or nonstudent, including adults and visitors, shall possess, use or distribute a weapon when in a school location except as provided in this policy. The school district will act to enforce this policy and to discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, school employee, volunteer, or member of the public who violates this policy.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Weapon”

1. A “weapon” means any object, device or instrument designed as a weapon or through its use is capable of threatening or producing bodily harm or which may be used to inflict self-injury including, but not limited to, any firearm, whether loaded or unloaded; airguns; pellet guns; BB guns; all knives; blades; clubs; metal knuckles; numchucks; throwing stars; explosives; fireworks; mace and other propellants; stunguns; ammunition; poisons; chains; arrows; and objects that have been modified to serve as a weapon.

2. No person shall possess, use or distribute any object, device or instrument having the appearance of a weapon and such objects, devices or instruments shall be treated as weapons including, but not limited to, weapons listed above which are broken or non-functional, look-alike guns; toy guns; and any object that is a facsimile of a real weapon.

3. No person shall use articles designed for other purposes (i.e., lasers or laser pointers, belts, combs, pencils, files, scissors, etc.), to inflict bodily harm and/or intimidate and such use will be treated as the possession and use of a weapon.

B. “School Location”

includes any school building or grounds, whether leased, rented, owned or controlled by the school, locations of school activities or trips, bus stops, school buses or school vehicles, school-contracted vehicles, the area of entrance or departure from school premises or events, all locations where school related functions are conducted, and anywhere students are under the jurisdiction of the school district.

C. “Possession”

means having a weapon on one’s person or in an area subject to one’s control in a school location.

IV. EXCEPTIONS

A. A student who finds a weapon on the way to school or in a school location, or a student who discovers that he or she accidentally has a weapon in his or her possession, and takes the weapon immediately to the principal’s office shall not be considered to possess a weapon.

If it would be impractical or dangerous to take the weapon to the principal’s office, a student shall not be considered to possess a weapon if he or she immediately turns the weapon over to an administrator, teacher or head coach or immediately notifies an administrator, teacher or head coach of the weapon’s location.

B. It shall not be a violation of this policy if a nonstudent (or student where specified) falls within one of the following categories:

1. active licensed peace officers;

2. military personnel, or students or nonstudents participating in military training, who are on duty performing official duties;

3. persons authorized to carry a pistol under Minn. Stat. § 624.714 while in a motor vehicle or outside of a motor vehicle for the purpose of directly placing a firearm in, or retrieving it from, the trunk or rear area of the vehicle;

4. persons who keep or store in a motor vehicle pistols in accordance with Minn. Stat. §§ 624.714 or 624.715 or other firearms in accordance with § 97B.045;

a. Section 624.714 specifies procedures and standards for obtaining pistol permits and penalties for the failure to do so. Section 624.715 defines an exception to the pistol permit requirements for “antique firearms which are carried or possessed as curiosities or for their historical significance or value.”

b. Section 97B.045 generally provides that a firearm may not be transported in a motor vehicle unless it is

(1) unloaded and in a gun case without any portion of the firearm exposed;  (2) unloaded and in the closed trunk; or  (3) a handgun carried in compliance with §§ 624.714 and 624.715.

5. firearm safety or marksmanship courses or activities for students or nonstudents conducted on school property;

6. possession of dangerous weapons, BB guns, or replica firearms by a ceremonial color guard;

7. a gun or knife show held on school property;

8. possession of dangerous weapons, BB guns, or replica firearms with written permission of the principal or other person having general control and supervision of the school or the director of a child care center; or

9. persons who are on unimproved property owned or leased by a child care center, school or school district unless the person knows that a student is currently present on the land for a school-related activity.

C. Policy Application to Instructional Equipment/Tools

While the school district does not allow the possession, use, or distribution of weapons by students, or nonstudents, such a position is not meant to interfere with instruction or the use of appropriate equipment and tools by students or nonstudents. Such equipment and tools, when properly possessed, used, and stored, shall not be considered in violation of the rule against the possession, use, or distribution of weapons. However, when authorized instructional and work equipment and tools are used in a potentially dangerous or threatening manner, such possession and use will be treated as the possession and use of a weapon.

D. Firearms in School Parking Lots and Parking Facilities

A school district may not prohibit the lawful carry or possession of firearms in a school parking lot or parking facility. For purposes of this policy, the “lawful” carry or possession of a firearm in a school parking lot or parking facility is specifically limited to nonstudent permit-holders authorized under Minn. Stat. § 624.714 to carry a pistol in the interior of a vehicle or outside the motor vehicle for the purpose of directly placing a firearm in, or retrieving it from, the trunk or rear area of the vehicle. Any possession or carry of a firearm beyond the immediate vicinity of a permit-holder’s vehicle shall constitute a violation of this policy.

V. CONSEQUENCES FOR STUDENT WEAPON POSSESSION/USE/ DISTRIBUTION

A. The school district does not allow the possession, use, or distribution of weapons by students. Consequently, the minimum consequence for students possessing, using, or distributing weapons shall include:

1. immediate out-of-school suspension;

2. confiscation of the weapon;

3. immediate notification of police;

4. parent or guardian notification; and

5. recommendation to the superintendent of dismissal for a period of time not to exceed one year.

B. Pursuant to Minnesota law, a student who brings a firearm, as defined by federal law, to school will be expelled for at least one year. The school board may modify this requirement on a case-by-case basis.

C. Administrative Discretion

While the school district does not allow the possession, use, or distribution of weapons by students, the superintendent may use discretion in determining whether, under the circumstances, a course of action other than the minimum consequences specified above is warranted. If so, other appropriate action may be taken, including consideration of a recommendation for lesser discipline.

VI. CONSEQUENCES FOR WEAPON POSSESSION/USE/DISTRIBUTION BY NONSTUDENTS

A. Employees

1. An employee who violates the terms of this policy is subject to disciplinary action, including nonrenewal, suspension, or discharge as deemed appropriate by the school board.

2. Sanctions against employees, including nonrenewal, suspension, or discharge shall be pursuant to and in accordance with applicable statutory authority, collective bargaining agreements, and school district policies.

3. When an employee violates the weapons policy, law enforcement may be notified, as appropriate.

B. Other Nonstudents

1. Any member of the public who violates this policy shall be informed of the policy and asked to leave the school location. Depending on the circumstances, the person may be barred from future entry to school locations. In addition, if the person is a student in another school district, that school district may be contacted concerning the policy violation.

2. If appropriate, law enforcement will be notified of the policy violation by the member of the public and may be asked to provide an escort to remove the member of the public from the school location.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 97B.045 (Transportation of Firearms)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.05 (Referral to Police)
Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56 (Pupil Fair Dismissal Act)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.44 (Expulsion for Possession of Firearm)
Minn. Stat. § 609.02, Subd. 6 (Definition of Dangerous Weapon)
Minn. Stat. § 609.605 (Trespass) 501-5
Minn. Stat. § 609.66 (Dangerous Weapons)
Minn. Stat. § 624.714 (Carrying of Weapons without Permit; Penalties)
Minn. Stat. § 624.715 (Exemptions; Antiques and Ornaments)
18 U.S.C. § 921 (Definition of Firearm)
In re C.R.M. 611 N.W.2d 802 (Minn. 2000)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 403 (Discipline, Suspension, and Dismissal of School District Employees)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 525 (Violence Prevention)Adopted: June 5, 2012

Policy501.pdf

Revised and Adopted August 21, 2018

502 SEARCH OF STUDENT LOCKERS, DESKS, PERSONAL POSSESSIONS, AND STUDENT’S PERSON

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide for a safe and healthful educational environment by enforcing the school district’s policies against contraband.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. Lockers and Personal Possessions Within a Locker

Pursuant to Minnesota statutes, school lockers are the property of the school district. At no time does the school district relinquish its exclusive control of lockers provided for the convenience of students. Inspection of the interior of lockers may be conducted by school officials for any reason at any time, without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant. The personal possessions of students within a school locker may be searched only when school officials have a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover evidence of a violation of law or school rules. As soon as practicable after the search of a student’s personal possessions, the school officials must provide notice of the search to students whose lockers were searched unless disclosure would impede an ongoing investigation by police or school officials.

B. Desks

School desks are the property of the school district. At no time does the school district relinquish its exclusive control of desks provided for the convenience of students. Inspection of the interior of desks may be conducted by school officials for any reason at any time, without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.

C. Personal Possessions and Student’s Person

The personal possessions of students and/or a student’s person may be searched when school officials have a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover a violation of law or school rules. The search will be reasonable in its scope and intrusiveness.

D. A violation of this policy occurs when students use lockers and desks for unauthorized purposes or to store contraband.

A violation occurs when students carry contraband on their person or in their personal possessions.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Contraband” means any unauthorized item possession of which is prohibited by school district policy and/or law. It includes, but is not limited to, weapons and “look-alikes,” alcoholic beverages, controlled substances and “look-alikes,” overdue books and other materials belonging to the school district, and stolen property.

B. “Personal possessions” includes, but is not limited to, purses, backpacks, bookbags, packages, and clothing.

C. “Reasonable suspicion” means that a school official has grounds to believe that the search will result in evidence of a violation of school district policy, rules, and/or law. Reasonable suspicion may be based on a school official’s personal observation, a report from a student, parent or staff member, a student’s suspicious behavior, a student’s age and past history or record of conduct both in and out of the school context, or other reliable sources of information.

D. “Reasonable scope” means that the scope and/or intrusiveness of the search is reasonably related to the objectives of the search. Factors to consider in determining what is reasonable include the seriousness of the suspected infraction, the reliability of the information, the necessity of acting without delay, the existence of exigent circumstances necessitating an immediate search and further investigation (e.g., to prevent violence, serious and immediate risk of harm or destruction of evidence), and the age of the student.

IV. PROCEDURES

A. School officials may inspect the interiors of lockers and desks for any reason at any time, without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.

B. School officials may inspect the personal possessions of a student and/or a student’s person based on a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover a violation of law or school rules. A search of personal possessions of a student and/or a student’s person will be reasonable in its scope and intrusiveness.

C. As soon as practicable after a search of personal possessions within a locker pursuant to this policy, the school officials must provide notice of the search to students whose possessions were searched unless disclosure would impede an ongoing investigation by police or school officials.

D. Whenever feasible, a search of a person shall be conducted in private by a school official of the same sex. A second school official of the same sex shall be present as an observer during the search of a person whenever feasible.

E. A strip search is a search involving the removal of coverings or clothing from private areas. Mass strip searches, or body cavity searches, are prohibited. Strip searches will be conducted only in circumstances involving imminent danger.

F. A school official conducting any other search may determine when it is appropriate to have a second official present as an observer.

G. A copy of this policy will be printed in the student handbook or disseminated in any other way which school officials deem appropriate. The school district shall provide a copy of this policy to a student when the student is given use of a locker.

V. DIRECTIVES AND GUIDELINES

School administration may establish reasonable directives and guidelines which address specific needs of the school district, such as use of tape in lockers, standards of cleanliness and care, posting of pin-ups and posters which may constitute sexual harassment, etc.

VI. SEIZURE OF CONTRABAND

If a search yields contraband, school officials will seize the item and, where appropriate, turn it over to legal officials for ultimate disposition.

VII. VIOLATIONS

A student found to have violated this policy and/or the directives and guidelines implementing it shall be subject to discipline in accordance with the school district’s Student Discipline Policy, which may include suspension, exclusion, or expulsion, and the student may, when appropriate, be referred to legal officials.

Legal References:

U. S. Const., amend. IV Minn. Const., art. I, § 10 Minn. Stat. § 121A.72 (School Locker Policy)
New Jersey v. T.L.O., 469 U.S. 325, 105 S.Ct. 733, 83 L.Ed.2d 720 (1985)
G.C. v. Owensboro Public Schools, 711 F.3d 623 (6th Cir. 2013)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 417 (Chemical Use and Abuse)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 418 (Drug-Free Workplace/Drug-Free School)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 501 (School Weapons)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)

Policy502.pdf

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 503
Orig. 1995 Rev. 2015, 2013, 2018
Adopted March 27, 2018

503 STUDENT ATTENDANCE

I. PURPOSE

A. The school board believes that regular school attendance is directly related to success in academic work, benefits students socially, provides opportunities for important communications between teachers and students, and establishes regular habits of dependability important to the future of the student. The purpose of this policy is to encourage regular school attendance. It is intended to be positive and not punitive.

B. This policy also recognizes that class attendance is a joint responsibility to be shared by the student, parent or guardian, teacher, and administrators. This policy will assist students in attending class.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. Responsibilities

1. Student’s Responsibility

It is the student’s right to be in school. It is also the student’s responsibility to attend all assigned classes and study halls for the entire day, every day that school is in session. It is also the student’s responsibility to be aware of and follow the correct procedures when absent from an assigned class or study hall. Finally, it is the student’s responsibility to request any missed assignments due to an absence.

2. Parent or Guardian’s Responsibility

It is the responsibility of the student’s parent or guardian to ensure the student is attending school, to inform the school in the event of a student absence, and to work cooperatively with the school and the student to solve any attendance problems that may arise.

3. Teacher’s Responsibility

It is the teacher’s responsibility to take daily attendance and to maintain accurate attendance records in each assigned class and study hall. It is also the teacher’s responsibility to be familiar with all procedures governing attendance and to apply these procedures uniformly. It is also the teacher’s responsibility to provide every student who has been absent with any missed assignments upon request. Finally, it is the teacher’s responsibility to work cooperatively with every student’s parent or guardian and the student to solve any attendance problems that may arise.

4. Administrator’s Responsibility

a. It is the administrator’s responsibility to require students to attend all assigned classes and study halls every day. It is also the administrator’s responsibility to be familiar with all procedures governing attendance and to apply these procedures uniformly to all students, to maintain accurate records on student attendance, and to prepare a list of the previous day’s absences stating the status of each. Finally, it is the administrator’s responsibility to inform every student’s parent or guardian of their student’s attendance and to work cooperatively with them and the student to solve attendance problems.

b. In accordance with the Minnesota Compulsory Instruction Law, Minn. Stat. § 120A.22, the students of the school district are REQUIRED to attend all assigned classes and/or study halls every day school is in session, unless the student has been excused by the school board from attendance because the student has already completed state and school district standards required to graduate from high school, has withdrawn, or has a valid excuse for absence.

B. Attendance Procedures

Attendance procedures shall be presented to the school board for review and approval. When approved by the school board, the attendance procedures will be included as an addendum to this policy.

1. Excused Absences

a. To be considered an excused absence, the student’s parent or legal guardian may be asked to verify, in writing, the reason for the student’s absence from school. A note from a physician or a licensed mental health professional stating that the student cannot attend school is a valid excuse.

b. The following reasons shall be sufficient to constitute excused absences: 

(1) Illness.  (2) Serious illness in the student’s immediate family.  (3) A death or funeral in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative.  (4) Medical, dental, or orthodontic treatment, or a counseling appointment.  (5) Court appearances occasioned by family or personal action.  (6) Religious holiday recognized by an established religion.  (7) Religious instruction not to exceed three hours in any week.  (8) Physical emergency conditions such as fire, flood, storm, etc.  (9) Official school field trip or other school-sponsored outing.  (10) Removal of a student pursuant to a suspension. Suspensions are to be handled as excused absences and students will be permitted to complete make-up work.  (11) Family emergencies.  (12) Active duty in any military branch of the United States.  (13) A student’s condition that requires ongoing treatment for a mental health diagnosis.  (14) Others as preapproved by an administrator.  

2. Unexcused Absences

a. The following are examples of absences which will not be excused:

(1) Truancy. An absence by a student which was not approved by the parent and/or the school district.  (2) Any absence in which the student failed to comply with any reporting requirements of the school district’s attendance procedures.  (3) Work at home.   (4) Work at a business, except under a school-sponsored work release program.  (5) Vacations with family.  (6) Personal trips to schools or colleges, except when preapproved by an administrator.  (7) Any other absence not included under the attendance procedures set out in this policy.

b. Consequences of Unexcused Absences

(1) Absences resulting from official suspension will be handled in accordance with the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56.  (2) Days during which a student is suspended from school shall not be counted in a student’s total cumulated unexcused absences.  (3) In cases of recurring unexcused absences, the administration may also request the county attorney to file a petition with the juvenile court, pursuant to Minnesota statutes.  (4) A district may terminate the enrollment of a nonresident student enrolled under the Enrollment Options Program (Open Enrollment) at the end of the school year if the student meets the definition of a habitual truant.

C. Tardiness

1. Definition: Students are expected to be in their assigned area at designated times. Failure to do so constitutes tardiness.

2. Procedures for Reporting Tardiness

a. Students tardy at the start of school must report to the school office for an admission slip.

b. Tardiness between periods will be handled by the teacher.

3. Excused Tardiness Valid excuses for tardiness are: 

a. Illness.

b. Serious illness in the student’s immediate family.

c. A death or funeral in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative.

d. Medical, dental, orthodontic, or mental health treatment.

e. Court appearances occasioned by family or personal action.

f. Physical emergency conditions such as fire, flood, storm, etc.

g. Any tardiness for which the student has been excused in writing by an administrator or faculty member.

4. Unexcused Tardiness

a. An unexcused tardiness is failing to be in an assigned area at the designated time class period commences without a valid excuse.

D. Participation in Extracurricular Activities and School-Sponsored On-the-Job Training Programs

1. This policy applies to all students involved in any extracurricular activity scheduled either during or outside the school day and any school sponsored on-the-job training programs.

2. School-initiated absences will be accepted and participation permitted.

3. A student may not participate in any activity or program if he or she has an unexcused absence from any class during the day.

4. If a student is suspended from any class, he or she may not participate in any activity or program that day.

5. If a student is absent from school due to medical reasons, he or she must present a physician’s statement or a statement from the student’s parent or guardian clearing the student for participation that day. The note must be presented to the coach or advisor before the student participates in the activity or program.

III. DISSEMINATION OF POLICY

Copies of this policy shall be made available to all students and parents at the commencement of each school year. This policy shall also be available upon request in each principal’s office. 

IV. REQUIRED REPORTING

A. Continuing Truant

Minn. Stat. § 260A.02 provides that a continuing truant is a student who is subject to the compulsory instruction requirements of Minn. Stat. § 120A.22 and is absent from instruction in a school, as defined in Minn. Stat. § 120A.05, without valid excuse within a single school year for:

1. Three days if the child is in elementary school; or

2. Three or more class periods on three days if the child is in middle school or high school.

B. Reporting Responsibility

When a student is initially classified as a continuing truant, Minn. Stat. § 260A.03 provides that the school attendance officer or other designated school official shall notify the student’s parent or legal guardian, by first class mail or other reasonable means, of the following:

1. That the child is truant;

2. That the parent or guardian should notify the school if there is a valid excuse for the child’s absences;

3. That the parent or guardian is obligated to compel the attendance of the child at school pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 120A.22 and parents or guardians who fail to meet this obligation may be subject to prosecution under Minn. Stat. § 120A.34;

4. That this notification serves as the notification required by Minn. Stat. § 120A.34;

5. That alternative educational programs and services may be available in the child’s enrolling or resident district;

6. That the parent or guardian has the right to meet with appropriate school personnel to discuss solutions to the child’s truancy;

7. That if the child continues to be truant, the parent and child may be subject to juvenile court proceedings under Minn. Stat. Ch. 260; 

8. That if the child is subject to juvenile court proceedings, the child may be subject to suspension, restriction, or delay of the child’s driving privilege pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 260C.201; and

9. That it is recommended that the parent or guardian accompany the child to school and attend classes with the child for one day.

C. Habitual Truant

1. A habitual truant is a child under the age of 17 years who is absent from attendance at school without lawful excuse for seven school days per school year if the child is in elementary school or for one or more class periods on seven school days per school year if the child is in middle school or high school, or a child who is 17 years of age who is absent from attendance at school without lawful excuse for one or more class periods on seven school days per school year and who has not lawfully withdrawn from school.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 120A.05 (Definitions)
Minn. Stat. § 120A.22 (Compulsory Instruction)
Minn. Stat. § 120A.24 (Reporting)
Minn. Stat. § 120A.26 (Enforcement and Prosecution)
Minn. Stat. § 120A.34 (Violations; Penalties)
Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56 (Pupil Fair Dismissal Act)
Minn. Stat. § 124D.03 (Enrollment Options Program)
Minn. Stat. § 260A.02 (Definitions)
Minn. Stat. § 260A.03 (Notice to Parent or Guardian When Child is a Continuing Truant)
Minn. Stat. § 260C.007, Subd. 19 (Habitual Truant Defined)
Minn. Stat. § 260C.201 (Dispositions; Children in Need of Protection or Services or Neglected and in Foster Care)
Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565, 95 S.Ct. 729 (1975)
Slocum v. Holton Board of Education, 429 N.W.2d 607 (Mich. App. Ct. 1988)
Campbell v. Board of Education of New Milford, 475 A.2d 289 (Conn. 1984)
Hamer v. Board of Education of Township High School District No. 113, 66 Ill. App.3d 7, 383 N.E.2d 231 (1978)
Gutierrez v. School District R-1, 585 P.2d 935 (Co. Ct. App. 1978)
Knight v. Board of Education, 38 Ill. App. 3d 603, 348 N.E.2d 299 (1976)
Dorsey v. Bale, 521 S.W.2d 76 (Ky. 1975)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)

Policy503.pdf

St. Anthony New Brighton's policy regarding early kindergarten admission.

Early_Admission_Packet.pdf

 Adopted March 31, 2020

Revised October 3, 2023

504 STUDENT DRESS AND APPEARANCE

1. PURPOSE: The purpose of this policy is to enhance the education of students by establishing expectations of dress and grooming that are related to educational goals and community standards.

2. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

   1. It is the policy of this school district to encourage students to be dressed appropriately for school activities and in keeping with community standards. This is a joint responsibility of the student and the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s).

   2. A student’s clothing or appearance may not materially and substantially disrupt or interfere with the educational mission, school environment, classwork, or school activities. A student’s dress or appearance may not incite or contribute to substantial disorder or invasion of the rights of others or pose a threat to the health or safety of the students or others.

   3. There are two basic principles/rules that govern our dress code:

      1. Certain body parts must be covered for all students.

      2. Genitals, buttocks, chest, and nipples must be fully covered by opaque fabric. This does not include cleavage, midriff, or shoulders as part of this standard.

      3. Students must wear:

         1. A shirt with opaque fabric in the front, the back, and on the sides under the arms.

         2. Pants/jeans/shorts or the equivalent

         3. Shoes or footwear

   4. Dress and grooming on a school location must be appropriate to the school setting and not be lewd*, obscene*, abusive* related, or discriminatory.

      1. *Lewd and Obscene is defined as follows:

         1. The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the clothing taken as a whole a appeals to the prurient interest of minors of like age;

         2. The clothing depicts or describes sexual conduct in a matter that is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community concerning how such conduct should be presented to minors of like age, and

         3. The clothing taken as a whole lacks serious literary, artistic, political or scientific value for minors.

      2. *Abusive is defined as insulting, contemptuous or defamatory.

         1. Wearing clothing that includes words or pictures which are obscene, vulgar, abusive and discriminatory or which promote or advertise alcohol, chemical, tobacco, guns/weapons or any other product that is illegal for use by minors.

         2. Wearing clothing and other items or grooming in a manner that represents and/or promotes threat/hate groups, hate speech, or written or expressed language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class or consistently marginalized group.

         3. Wearing of clothing or grooming that poses a threat to the health and safety of others.

      3. Headwear, including hats or head coverings, are allowed provided that it does not cover the student’s face to the extent that the student is not identifiable. Headgear must not interfere with the educational process. Students may wear headgear for a medical or religious reason

      4. Minnesota Statute  in 2023 enacted the Crown Act: which protects student hair, including but not limited to hair texture and hair styles such as braids, locks, and twists.

      5. Students Cannot Wear:

         1. Any item that obscures the face, except as a religious observation or for medical reasons (no masks or face paint).

         2. Any clothing that reveals visible undergarments (visible waistbands on undergarments or visible straps on undergarments worn under other clothing are allowed as long as the basic principles of dress and grooming are upheld).

         3. No backpacks during the school day. Backpacks must be stored in locker during the school day.

      6. Hair, including but not limited to hair texture and hair styles such as braids, locks, and twists.

      7. It is not the intention of this policy to abridge the rights of students to express political, religious, philosophical, or similar opinions by wearing apparel on which such messages are stated. Such messages are acceptable as long as they are not lewd, vulgar, obscene, defamatory, profane or do not advocate violence or harassment against others.

3. PROCEDURES

   1. When, in the judgment of the administration, a student’s appearance, grooming, or mode of dress interferes with or disrupts the educational process or school activities, or poses a threat to the health or safety of the student or others, the student will be directed to make modifications or will be sent home for the day. Parents/guardians will be notified.

   2. The administration may recommend a form of dress considered appropriate for a specific event and communicate the recommendation to students and parents/guardians. A school district or charter school must not prohibit an American Indian student from wearing American Indian regalia, tribal regalia, or objects of cultural significance at a graduation ceremony. 

   3. Likewise, an organized student group may recommend a form of dress for students considered appropriate for a specific event and make such recommendation to the administration for approval.

   4. Students may be asked to remove hats or hoods for educational or safety reasons.

Legal References:

• U. S. Const., amend. I Tinker v. Des Moines Indep. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503, 89 S.Ct. 733, 21 L.Ed.2

• 731 (1969) Stephenson v. Davenport Cmty. Sch. Dist., 110 F.3d 1303 (8 Cir. 1997

• D.B. ex rel. Brogdon v. Lafen, 217 Fed.Appx. 518 (6 Cir. 2007)

• B.W.A. v. Farmington R-7 Sch. Dist., 508 F.Supp.2d 740 (E.D. Mo. 2007) Harper v. Poway Unified  Sch. Dist., 545 F.Supp.2d 1072 (S.D. Cal. 2007) Madrid v. Anthony, 510 F.Supp.2d 425 (S.D. Tex. 2007) Lowry v. Watson Chapel Sch. Dist., 508 F.Supp.2d 713 (E.D. Ark. 2007) Hicks v. Halifax County Bd. of Educ., 93 F.Supp.2d 649 (E.D. N.C. 1999) McIntire v. Bethel School, Indep. Sch. Dist. No. 3, 804 F.Supp. 1415, 78 Educ. L.Rep. 828

• (W.D. Okla. 1992) Olesen v. Board of Educ. of Sch. Dist. No. 228, 676 F.Supp. 820, 44 Educ. L.Rep. 205 (N.D. Ill. 1987)

Cross References:

• MSBA/MASA Model Policy 413 (Harassment and Violence) MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline) MSBA/MASA Model Policy 525 (Violence Prevention)

Adopted: January 5, 2010 Revised:

505 DISTRIBUTION OF NONSCHOOL-SPONSORED MATERIALS ON SCHOOL PREMISES BY STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to protect the exercise of students’ and employees’ free speech rights, taking into consideration the educational objectives and responsibilities of the school district.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The school district recognizes that students and employees have the right to express themselves on school property. This protection includes the right to distribute, at a reasonable time and place and in a reasonable manner, non-school sponsored material.

B. To protect First Amendment rights, while at the same time preserving the integrity of the educational objectives and responsibilities of the school district, the school board adopts the following regulations and procedures regarding distribution of non-school sponsored material on school property and at school activities.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Distribute” or “Distribution” means circulation or dissemination of material by means of handing out free copies, selling or offering copies for sale, accepting donations for copies, posting or displaying material, or placing material in internal staff or student mailboxes.

B. “Non-school sponsored material” or “unofficial material” includes all materials or objects intended for distribution, except school newspapers, employee newsletters, literary magazines, yearbooks and other publications funded and/or sponsored or authorized by the school. Examples of non-school sponsored materials include but are not limited to leaflets, brochures, buttons, badges, flyers, petitions, posters, and underground newspapers whether written by students or employees or others, and tangible objects.

C. “Obscene to minors” means:

1. The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the material, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest of minors of the age to whom distribution is requested;

2. The material depicts or describes, in a manner that is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community concerning how such conduct should be presented to minors of the age to whom distribution is requested, sexual conduct such as intimate sexual acts (normal or perverted), masturbation, excretory functions, or lewd exhibition of the genitals; and

3. The material, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for minors.

D. “Minor” means any person under the age of eighteen (18).

E. “Material and substantial disruption” of a normal school activity means:

1. Where the normal school activity is an educational program of the district for which student attendance is compulsory, “material and substantial disruption” is defined as any disruption which interferes with or impedes the implementation of that program.

2. Where the normal school activity is voluntary in nature (including, without limitation, school athletic events, school plays and concerts, and lunch periods) “material and substantial disruption” is defined as student rioting, unlawful seizures of property, conduct inappropriate to the event, participation in a school boycott, demonstration, sit-in, stand-in, walk-out, or other related forms of activity. In order for expression to be considered disruptive, there must exist specific facts upon which the likelihood of disruption can be forecast, including past experience in the school, current events influencing student activities and behavior, and instances of actual or threatened disruption relating to the written material in question.

F. “School activities” means any activity sponsored by the school including, but not limited to, classroom work, library activities, physical education classes, official assemblies and other similar gatherings, school athletic contests, band concerts, school plays and other theatrical productions, and in-school lunch periods.

G. “Libelous” is a false and unprivileged statement about a specific individual that tends to harm the individual’s reputation or to lower that individual in the esteem of the community.

IV. GUIDELINES

A. Students and employees of the school district have the right to distribute, at reasonable times and places as set forth in this policy, and in a reasonable manner, non-school sponsored material.

B. Requests for distribution of non-school sponsored material will be reviewed by the administration on a case-by-case basis. However, distribution of the materials listed below is always prohibited. Material is prohibited that:

1. is obscene to minors;

2. is libelous or slanderous;

3. is pervasively indecent or vulgar or contains any indecent or vulgar language or representations, with a determination made as to the appropriateness of the material for the age level of students to which it is intended;

4. advertises or promotes any product or service not permitted to minors by law;

5. advocates violence or other illegal conduct;

6. constitutes insulting or fighting words, the very expression of which injures or harasses other people (e.g., threats of violence, defamation of character or of a person’s race, religious or ethnic origin);

7. 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;

8. is deemed disruptive to the educational learning environment.

C. Distribution by students and employees of non-school sponsored materials on school district property are subject to reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions set forth below. In making decisions regarding the time, place, and manner of distribution, the administration will consider factors including, but not limited to, the following:

1. whether the material is educationally related;

2. the extent to which distribution is likely to cause disruption of or interference with the school district’s educational objectives, discipline, or school activities;

3. whether the materials can be distributed from the office or other isolated location so as to minimize disruption of traffic flow in hallways;

4. the quantity or size of materials to be distributed;

5. whether distribution would require assignment of school district staff, use of school district equipment, or other resources;

6. whether distribution would require that non-school persons be present on the school grounds;

7. whether the materials are a solicitation for goods or services not requested by the recipients

V. TIME, PLACE, AND MANNER OF DISTRIBUTION

A. No non-school sponsored material shall be distributed during and at the place of a normal school activity if it is reasonably likely to cause a material and substantial disruption of that activity.

B. Distribution of non-school sponsored material is prohibited when it blocks the safe flow of traffic within corridors and entrance ways of the school, and school parking lots. Distribution shall not impede entrance to or exit from school premises in any way.

C. No one shall coerce a student or staff member to accept any publication.

D. The time, place, and manner of distribution will be solely within the discretion of the administration, consistent with the provisions of this policy.

VI. PROCEDURES

A. Any student or employee wishing to distribute (as defined in this policy) non-school sponsored material must first submit for approval a copy of the material to the principal at least 24 hours in advance of desired distribution time, together with the following information:

1. Name and phone number of the person submitting the request and, if a student, the room number of his or her first-period class.

2. Date(s) and time(s) of day intended for distribution.

3. Location where material will be distributed. 4. If intended for students, the grade(s) of students to whom the distribution is intended.

B. Within one school day, the principal will review the request and render a decision. In the event that permission to distribute the material is denied or limited, the person submitting the request should be informed in writing of the reasons for the denial or limitation.

C. If the person submitting the request does not receive a response within one school day, the person shall contact the office to verify that the lack of response was not due to an inability to locate the person.

D. If the person is dissatisfied with the decision of the principal, the person may submit a written request for appeal to the superintendent. If the person does not receive a response within three (3) school days (not counting Saturdays, Sundays and holidays) of submitting the appeal, the person shall contact the office of the Superintendent to verify that the lack of response is not due to an inability to locate the person.

E. Permission or denial of permission to distribute material does not imply approval or disapproval of its contents by either the school, the administration of the school, the school board, or the individual reviewing the material submitted.

VII. DISCIPLINARY ACTION

A. Distribution by any student of non-school sponsored material prohibited herein or in violation of the provisions of time, place and manner of distribution as described above will be halted and disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with the school district’s Student Discipline Policy.

B. Distribution by any employee of non-school sponsored material prohibited herein or in violation of the provisions of time, place and manner of distribution as described above will be halted and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken, in accordance with any individual contract, collective bargaining agreement, school district policies and procedures, and/or governing statute.

C. Any other party violating this policy will be requested to leave the school property immediately and, if necessary, the police will be called.

VIII. NOTICE OF POLICY TO STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES

A copy of this policy will be published in student handbooks and posted in school buildings.

IX. IMPLEMENTATION

The school district administration may develop any additional guidelines and procedures necessary to implement this policy for submission to the school board for approval. Upon approval by the school board, such guidelines and procedures shall be an addendum to this policy.

Legal References:

U. S. Const., amend. I Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260, 108 S.Ct. 562, 98 L.Ed.2d 592 (1988)
Bethel Sch. Dist. No. 403 v. Fraser, 478 U.S. 675, 106 S.Ct. 3159, 92 L.Ed.2d 549 (1986)
Tinker v. Des Moines Indep. Sch. Dist., 393 U.S. 503, 89 S.Ct. 733, 21 L.Ed.2d 731 (1969)
Bystrom v. Fridley High School, 822 F.2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 403 (Discipline, Suspension, and Dismissal of School District Employees)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 512 (School-Sponsored Student Publications)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 904 (Distribution of Materials on School District Property by Nonschool Persons)

Policy505.pdf

506 STUDENT DISCIPLINE

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that students are aware of and comply with the school district’s expectations for student conduct.  Such compliance will enhance the school district’s ability to maintain discipline and ensure that there is no interference with the educational process.  The school district will take appropriate disciplinary action when students fail to adhere to the Code of Student Conduct established by this policy.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The school board recognizes that individual responsibility and mutual respect are essential components of the educational process.  The school board further recognizes that nurturing the maturity of each student is of primary importance and is closely linked with the balance that must be maintained between authority and self-discipline as the individual progresses from a child’s dependence on authority to the more mature behavior of self-control.

All students are entitled to learn and develop in a setting which promotes respect of self, others, and property.  Proper positive discipline can only result from an environment which provides options and stresses student self-direction, decision-making, and responsibility.  Schools can function effectively only with internal discipline based on mutual understanding of rights and responsibilities.

Students must conduct themselves in an appropriate manner that maintains a climate in which learning can take place.  Overall decorum affects student attitudes and influences student behavior.  Proper student conduct is necessary to facilitate the education process and to create an atmosphere conducive to high student achievement.

Although this policy emphasizes the development of self-discipline, it is recognized that there are instances when it will be necessary to administer disciplinary measures.  The position of the school district is that a fair and equitable district-wide student discipline policy will contribute to the quality of the student’s educational experience.  This discipline policy is adopted in accordance with and subject to the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56.

In view of the foregoing and in accordance with Minn. Stat. § 121A.55, the school board, with the participation of school district administrators, teachers, employees, students, parents, community members, and such other individuals and organizations as appropriate, has developed this policy which governs student conduct and applies to all students of the school district.

III.  DEFINITIONS

A.     "Nonexclusionary disciplinary policies and practices" means policies and practices that are alternatives to dismissing a pupil from school, including but not limited to evidence-based positive behavior interventions and supports, social and emotional services, school-linked mental health services, counseling services, social work services, academic screening for Title 1 services or reading interventions, and alternative education services. Nonexclusionary disciplinary policies and practices include but are not limited to the policies and practices under sections 120B.12; 121A.575, clauses (1) and (2); 121A.031, subdivision 4, paragraph (a), clause (1); 121A.61, subdivision 3, paragraph (r); and 122A.627, clause (3).

B.     "Pupil withdrawal agreement" means a verbal or written agreement between a school administrator or district administrator and a pupil's parent to withdraw a student from the school district to avoid expulsion or exclusion dismissal proceedings. The duration of the withdrawal agreement cannot be for more than a 12-month period.

IV.       POLICY

A.     The school board must establish uniform criteria for dismissal and adopt written policies and rules to effectuate the purposes of the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act. The policies must include nonexclusionary disciplinary policies and practices consistent with Minnesota Statutes, section 121A.41, subdivision 12, and must emphasize preventing dismissals through early detection of problems. The policies must be designed to address students' inappropriate behavior from recurring.

B.     The policies must recognize the continuing responsibility of the school for the education of the pupil during the dismissal period.

C.     The school is responsible for ensuring that alternative educational services, if the pupil wishes to take advantage of them, must be adequate to allow the pupil to make progress toward meeting the graduation standards adopted under Minnesota Statutes, section 120B.02 and help prepare the pupil for readmission in accordance with section Minnesota Statutes, section 121A.46, subdivision 5.

D.     For expulsion and exclusion dismissals and pupil withdrawal agreements as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 121A.41, subdivision 13:

1.     for a pupil who remains enrolled in the school district or is awaiting enrollment in a new district, the school district's continuing responsibility includes reviewing the pupil's schoolwork and grades on a quarterly basis to ensure the pupil is on track for readmission with the pupil's peers. The school district must communicate on a regular basis with the pupil's parent or guardian to ensure that the pupil is completing the work assigned through the alternative educational services as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 121A.41, subdivision 11. These services are required until the pupil enrolls in another school or returns to the same school;

2.     a pupil receiving school-based or school-linked mental health services in the school district under Minnesota Statutes, section 245.4889 continues to be eligible for those services until the pupil is enrolled in a new district; and

3.     the school district must provide to the pupil's parent or guardian information on accessing mental health services, including any free or sliding fee providers in the community. The information must also be posted on the school district website.

V. AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

A. The School Board.  The school board holds all school personnel responsible for the maintenance of order within the school district and supports all personnel acting within the framework of this discipline policy.

B. Superintendent.  The superintendent shall establish guidelines and directives to carry out this policy, hold all school personnel, students, and parents responsible for conforming to this policy, and support all school personnel performing their duties within the framework of this policy.  The superintendent shall also establish guidelines and directives for using the services of appropriate agencies for assisting students and parents.  Any guidelines or directives established to implement this policy shall be submitted to the school board for approval and shall be attached as an addendum to this policy.

C. Principal.  The school principal is given the responsibility and authority to formulate building rules and regulations necessary to enforce this policy, subject to final school board approval.  The principal shall give direction and support to all school personnel performing their duties within the framework of this policy. The principal shall consult with parents of students conducting themselves in a manner contrary to the policy.  The principal shall also involve other professional employees in the disposition of behavior referrals and shall make use of those agencies appropriate for assisting students and parents.  A principal, in exercising his or her lawful authority, may use reasonable force when it is necessary under the circumstances to restrain a student to prevent imminent bodily harm or death to the student or another.

D. Teachers.  All teachers shall be responsible for providing a well-planned teaching/learning environment and shall have primary responsibility for student conduct, with appropriate assistance from the administration.  All teachers shall enforce the Code of Student Conduct.  In exercising the teacher’s lawful authority, a teacher may use reasonable force when it is necessary under the circumstances to restrain a student to prevent imminent bodily harm or death to the student or another.

E. Other School District Personnel.  All school district personnel shall be responsible for contributing to the atmosphere of mutual respect within the school.  Their responsibilities relating to student behavior shall be as authorized and directed by the superintendent.  A school employee, school bus driver, or other agent of a school district, in exercising his or her lawful authority, may use reasonable force when it is necessary under the circumstances to restrain a student to prevent bodily harm or death to the student or another.

F. Parents or Legal Guardians.  Parents and guardians shall be held responsible for the behavior of their children as determined by law and community practice.  They are expected to cooperate with school authorities and to participate regarding the behavior of their children.

G. Students.  All students shall be held individually responsible for their behavior and for knowing and obeying the Code of Student Conduct and this policy.

H. Community Members.  Members of the community are expected to contribute to the establishment of an atmosphere in which rights and duties are effectively acknowledged and fulfilled.

I.         Reasonable Force Reports

1. The school district must report data on its use of any reasonable force used on a student with a disability to correct or restrain the student to prevent imminent bodily harm or death to the student or another that is consistent with the definition of physical holding under Minnesota Statutes, section 125A.0941, paragraph (c), as outlined in section 125A.0942, subdivision 3, paragraph (b).

2. Beginning with the 2024-2025 school year, the school district must report annually by July 15, in a form and manner determined by the MDE Commissioner, data from the prior school year about any reasonable force used on a general education student to correct or restrain the student to prevent imminent bodily harm or death to the student or another that is consistent with the definition of physical holding under Minnesota Statutes, section 125A.0941, paragraph (c).

3. Any reasonable force used under Minnesota Statutes, sections 121A.582; 609.06, subdivision 1; and 609.379 which intends to hold a child immobile or limit a child's movement where body contact is the only source of physical restraint or confines a child alone in a room from which egress is barred shall be reported to the Minnesota Department of Education as a restrictive procedure, including physical holding or seclusion used by an unauthorized or untrained staff person.

VI. STUDENT RIGHTS

All students have the right to an education and the right to learn.

VII. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

All students have the responsibility:

A. For their behavior and for knowing and obeying all school rules, regulations, policies, and procedures;

B. To attend school daily, except when excused, and to be on time to all classes and other school functions;

C. To pursue and attempt to complete the courses of study prescribed by the state and local school authorities;

D. To make necessary arrangements for making up work when absent from school;

E. To assist the school staff in maintaining a safe school for all students;

F. To be aware of all school rules, regulations, policies, and procedures, including those in this policy, and to conduct themselves in accord with them;

G. To assume that until a rule or policy is waived, altered, or repealed, it is in full force and effect;

H. To be aware of and comply with federal, state, and local laws;

I. To volunteer information in disciplinary cases should they have any knowledge relating to such cases and to cooperate with school staff as appropriate;

J. To respect and maintain the school’s property and the property of others;

K. To dress and groom in a manner which meets standards of safety and health and common standards of decency and which is consistent with applicable school district policy;

L. To avoid inaccuracies in student newspapers or publications and refrain from indecent or obscene language;

M. To conduct themselves in an appropriate physical or verbal manner; and

N. To recognize and respect the rights of others.

VIII. CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT

A. The following are examples of unacceptable behavior subject to disciplinary action by the school district. These examples are not intended to be an exclusive list.  Any student who engages in any of these activities shall be disciplined in accordance with this policy.  This policy applies to all school buildings, school grounds, and school property or property immediately adjacent to school grounds; school-sponsored activities or trips; school bus stops; school buses, school vehicles, school contracted vehicles, or any other vehicles approved for school district purposes; the area of entrance or departure from school premises or events; and all school-related functions, school-sponsored activities, events, or trips.  School district property also may mean a student’s walking route to or from school for purposes of attending school or school-related functions, activities, or events. While prohibiting unacceptable behavior subject to disciplinary action at these locations and events, the school district does not represent that it will provide supervision or assume liability at these locations and events.  This policy also applies to any student whose conduct at any time or in any place interferes with or obstructs the mission or operations of the school district or the safety or welfare of the student, other students, or employees.

1. Violations against property including, but not limited to, damage to or destruction of school property or the property of others, failure to compensate for damage or destruction of such property, arson, breaking and entering, theft, robbery, possession of stolen property, extortion, trespassing, unauthorized usage, or vandalism;

2. The use of profanity or obscene language, or the possession of obscene materials;

3. Gambling, including, but not limited to, playing a game of chance for stakes;

4. Violation of the school district’s Hazing Prohibition Policy;

5. Attendance problems including, but not limited to, truancy, absenteeism, tardiness, skipping classes, or leaving school grounds without permission;

6. Violation of the school district’s Student Attendance Policy;

7. Opposition to authority using physical force or violence;

8. Using, possessing, or distributing tobacco, tobacco-related devices, electronic cigarettes, or tobacco paraphernalia in violation of the school district’s Tobacco-Free Environment; Possession and Use of Tobacco, Tobacco-Related Devices, and Electronic Delivery Devices Policy;

9. Using, possessing, distributing, intending to distribute, making a request to another person for (solicitation), or being under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances or look-alike substances;

10. Using, possessing, distributing, intending to distribute, making a request to another person for (solicitation), or being under the influence of narcotics, drugs, or other controlled substances (except as prescribed by a physician), or look-alike substances (these prohibitions include medical marijuana or medical cannabis, even when prescribed by a physician, and one student sharing prescription medication with another student);

11. Using, possessing, or distributing items or articles that are illegal or harmful to persons or property including, but not limited to, drug paraphernalia;

12. Using, possessing, or distributing weapons, or look-alike weapons or other dangerous objects;

13. Violation of the school district’s Weapons Policy;

14. Violation of the school district’s Violence Prevention Policy;

15. Possession of ammunition including, but not limited to, bullets or other projectiles designed to be used in or as a weapon;

16. Possession, use, or distribution of explosives or any compound or mixture, the primary or common purpose or intended use of which is to function as an explosive;

17. Possession, use, or distribution of fireworks or any substance or combination of substances or article prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or an audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration or detonation;

18. Using an ignition device, including a butane or disposable lighter or matches, inside an educational building and under circumstances where there is a risk of fire, except where the device is used in a manner authorized by the school;

19. Violation of any local, state, or federal law as appropriate;

20. Acts disruptive of the educational process, including, but not limited to, disobedience, disruptive or disrespectful behavior, defiance of authority, cheating, insolence, insubordination, failure to identify oneself, improper activation of fire alarms, or bomb threats;

21. Violation of the school district’s Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy;

22. Use of a cell phone in violation of the school district’s Technology Acceptable Use and Safety Policy ;

23. Violation of school bus or transportation rules or the school district’s Student Transportation Safety Policy;

24. Violation of parking or school traffic rules and regulations, including, but not limited to, driving on school property in such a manner as to endanger persons or property;

25. Violation of directives or guidelines relating to lockers or improperly gaining access to a school locker;

26. Violation of the school district’s Search of Student Lockers, Desks, Personal Possessions, and Student’s Person Policy;

27. Violation of the school district’s Student Use and Parking of Motor Vehicles; Patrols, Inspections, and Searches Policy;

28. Possession or distribution of slanderous, libelous, or pornographic materials;

29. Violation of the school district’ Bullying Prohibition Policy;

30. Student attire or personal grooming which creates a danger to health or safety or creates a disruption to the educational process, including clothing which bears a message which is lewd, vulgar, or obscene, apparel promoting products or activities that are illegal for use by minors, or clothing containing objectionable emblems, signs, words, objects, or pictures communicating a message that is racist, sexist, or otherwise derogatory to a protected minority group or which connotes gang membership;

31. Criminal activity;

32. Falsification of any records, documents, notes, or signatures;

33. Tampering with, changing, or altering records or documents of the school district by any method including, but not limited to, computer access or other electronic means;

34. Scholastic dishonesty which includes, but is not limited to, cheating on a school assignment or test, plagiarism, or collusion, including the use of picture phones or other technology to accomplish this end;

35. Impertinent or disrespectful words, symbols, acronyms, or language, whether oral or written, related to teachers or other school district personnel;

36. Violation of the school district’s Harassment and Violence Policy;

37. Actions, including fighting or any other assaultive behavior, which causes or could cause injury to the student or other persons or which otherwise endangers the health, safety, or welfare of teachers, students, other school district personnel, or other persons;

38. Committing an act which inflicts great bodily harm upon another person, even though accidental or a result of poor judgment;

39. Violations against persons, including, but not limited to, assault or threatened assault, fighting, harassment, interference or obstruction, attack with a weapon, or look-alike weapon, sexual assault, illegal or inappropriate sexual conduct, or indecent exposure;

40. Verbal assaults or verbally abusive behavior including, but not limited to, use of words, symbols, acronyms, or language, whether oral or written, that are discriminatory, abusive, obscene, threatening, intimidating,  degrading to other people, or threatening to school property;

41. Physical or verbal threats including, but not limited to, the staging or reporting of dangerous or hazardous situations that do not exist;

42. Inappropriate, abusive, threatening, or demeaning actions based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, national origin, or sexual orientation;

43. Violation of the school district’s Distribution of Nonschool-Sponsored Materials on School Premises by Students and Employees Policy;

44. Violation of the school district’s one-to-one device rules and regulations;

45. Violation of school rules, regulations, policies, or procedures, including, but not limited to, those policies specifically enumerated in this policy; 

46. Other acts, as determined by the school district, which are disruptive of the educational process or dangerous or detrimental to the student or other students, school district personnel or surrounding persons, or which violate the rights of others or which damage or endanger the property of the school, or which otherwise interferes with or obstruct the mission or operations of the school district or the safety or welfare of students or employees.

IX. RECESS AND OTHER BREAKS

A.     "Recess detention" means excluding or excessively delaying a student from participating in a scheduled recess period as a consequence for student behavior. Recess detention does not include, among other things, providing alternative recess at the student's choice.

B.     The school district is encouraged to ensure student access to structured breaks from the demands of school and to support teachers, principals, and other school staff in their efforts to use evidence-based approaches to reduce exclusionary forms of discipline.

C.     The school district must not use recess detention unless:

1.     a student causes or is likely to cause serious physical harm to other students or staff;

2.     the student's parent or guardian specifically consents to the use of recess detention; or

3.     for students receiving special education services, the student's individualized education program team has determined that withholding recess is appropriate based on the individualized needs of the student.

D.     The school district must not withhold recess from a student based on incomplete schoolwork.

E.     The school district must require school staff to make a reasonable attempt to notify a parent or guardian within 24 hours of using recess detention.

F.     The school district must compile information on each recess detention at the end of each school year, including the student's age, grade, gender, race or ethnicity, and special education status. This information must be available to the public upon request. The school district is encouraged to use the data in professional development promoting the use of nonexclusionary discipline.

G.     The school district must not withhold or excessively delay a student's participation in scheduled mealtimes. This section does not alter a district or school's existing responsibilities under Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.111 or other state or federal law

X. DISCIPLINARY ACTION OPTIONS

The general policy of the school district is to utilize progressive discipline to the extent reasonable and appropriate based upon the specific facts and circumstances of student misconduct.  The specific form of discipline chosen in a particular case is solely within the discretion of the school district.  At a minimum, violation of school district rules, regulations, policies, or procedures will result in discussion of the violation and a verbal warning.  The school district shall, however, impose more severe disciplinary sanctions for any violation, including exclusion or expulsion, if warranted by the student’s misconduct, as determined by the school district.  Disciplinary action may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following:

A. Student conference with teacher, principal, counselor, or other school district personnel, and verbal warning;

B. Confiscation by school district personnel and/or by law enforcement of any item, article, object, or thing, prohibited by, or used in the violation of, any school district policy, rule, regulation, procedure, or state or federal law.  If confiscated by the school district, the confiscated item, article, object, or thing will be released only to the parent/guardian following the completion of any investigation or disciplinary action instituted or taken related to the violation.

C. Parent contact;

D. Parent conference;

E. Removal from class;

F. In-school suspension;

G. Suspension from extracurricular activities;

H. Detention or restriction of privileges;

I. Loss of school privileges;

J. In-school monitoring or revised class schedule;

K. Referral to in-school support services;

L. Referral to community resources or outside agency services;

M. Financial restitution;

N. Referral to police, other law enforcement agencies, or other appropriate authorities; 

O. A request for a petition to be filed in district court for juvenile delinquency adjudication;

P. Out-of-school suspension under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act;

Q. Preparation of an admission or readmission plan;

R. Saturday school;

S. Expulsion under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act;

T. Exclusion under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act; and/or

U. Other disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the school district.

XI. REMOVAL OF STUDENTS FROM CLASS

A. The teacher of record shall have the general control and government of the classroom.  Teachers have the responsibility of attempting to modify disruptive student behavior by such means as conferring with the student, using positive reinforcement, assigning detention or other consequences, or contacting the student’s parents.  When such measures fail, or when the teacher determines it is otherwise appropriate based upon the student’s conduct, the teacher shall have the authority to remove the student from class pursuant to the procedures established by this discipline policy.  “Removal from class” and “removal” mean any actions taken by a teacher, principal, or other school district employee to prohibit a student from attending a class or activity period for a period of time not to exceed five (5) days, pursuant to this discipline policy.

Grounds for removal from class shall include any of the following:

1. Willful conduct that significantly disrupts the rights of others to an education, including conduct that interferes with a teacher’s ability to teach or communicate effectively with students in a class or with the ability of other students to learn;

2. Willful conduct that endangers surrounding persons, including school district employees, the student or other students, or the property of the school; 

3. Willful violation of any school rules, regulations, policies or procedures, including the Code of Student Conduct in this policy; or

4. Other conduct, which in the discretion of the teacher or administration, requires removal of the student from class.

Such removal shall be for at least one (1) activity period or class period of instruction for a given course of study and shall not exceed five (5) such periods.

A student must be removed from class immediately if the student engages in assault or violent behavior.  “Assault” is an act done with intent to cause fear in another of immediate bodily harm or death; or the intentional infliction of, or attempt to inflict, bodily harm upon another.  The removal from class shall be for a period of time deemed appropriate by the principal, in consultation with the teacher.

B. If a student is removed from class more than ten (10) times in a school year, the school district shall notify the parent or guardian of the student’s tenth removal from class and make reasonable attempts to convene a meeting with the student’s parent or guardian to discuss the problem that is causing the student to be removed from class.

C.        School district discipline procedures will follow state statute. 

XII. DISMISSAL

A. “Dismissal” means the denial of the current educational program to any student, including exclusion, expulsion and suspension.  Dismissal does not include removal from class.

The school district shall not deny due process or equal protection of the law to any student involved in a dismissal proceeding which may result in suspension, exclusion or expulsion.

The school district shall not dismiss any student without attempting to use nonexclusionary disciplinary policies and procedures  before dismissal proceedings pupil withdrawal agreements, except where it appears that the student will create an immediate and substantial danger to self or to surrounding persons or property.

B. Violations leading to suspension, based upon severity, may also be grounds for actions leading to expulsion, and/or exclusion.  A student may be dismissed on any of the following grounds:

1. Willful violation of any reasonable school board regulation, including those found in this policy;

2. Willful conduct that significantly disrupts the rights of others to an education, or the ability of school personnel to perform their duties, or school sponsored extracurricular activities; or

3. Willful conduct that endangers the student or other students, or surrounding persons, including school district employees, or property of the school.

           C. Disciplinary Dismissals Prohibited

1. A pupil enrolled in the following is not subject to dismissals under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act:

   1. preschool or prekindergarten program, including an early childhood family education, school readiness, school readiness plus, voluntary prekindergarten, Head Start, or other school-based preschool or prekindergarten program; or

   2. kindergarten through Grade 3.

2. This section does not apply to a dismissal from school for less than one school day, except as provided under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 125A and federal law for a student receiving special education services.

3. Notwithstanding this section, expulsions and exclusions may be used only after resources outlined under Nonexclusionary discipline have been exhausted, and only in circumstances where there is an ongoing serious safety threat to the child or others.

D. Suspension Procedures

1. “Suspension” means an action by the school administration, under rules promulgated by the School Board, prohibiting a student from attending school for a period of no more than ten (10) school days; provided, however, if a suspension is longer than five (5) school days, the suspending administrator shall provide the superintendent with a reason for the longer term of suspension.  This definition does not apply to dismissal for one (1) school day or less where a student with a disability does not receive regular or special education instruction during that dismissal period.

2.       School administration must allow a suspended pupil the opportunity to complete all school work assigned during the period of the pupil's suspension and to receive full credit for satisfactorily completing the assignments. The school principal or other person having administrative control of the school building or program is encouraged to designate a district or school employee as a liaison to work with the pupil's teachers to allow the suspended pupil to (1) receive timely course materials and other information, and (2) complete daily and weekly assignments and receive teachers' feedback.

3.       If a student’s total days of removal from school exceed ten (10) cumulative days in a school year, the school district shall make reasonable attempts to convene a meeting with the student and the student’s parent or guardian before subsequently removing the student from school and, with the permission of the parent or guardian, arrange for a mental health screening for the student at the parent or guardian’s expense.  The purpose of this meeting is to attempt to determine the student’s need for assessment or other services or whether the parent or guardian should have the student assessed or diagnosed to determine whether the student needs treatment for a mental health disorder.

4. The definition of suspension under Minnesota Statutes, section 121A.41, subdivision 10, does not apply to a student's dismissal from school for one school day or less, except as provided under federal law for a student with a disability. Each suspension action may include a readmission plan.  The plan shall include, where appropriate, a provision for implementing alternative educational services upon readmission which must not be used to extend the current suspension.  A readmission plan must not obligate a parent or guardian to provide psychotropic drugs to their student as a condition of readmission.  School administration must not use the refusal of a parent or guardian to consent to the administration of psychotropic drugs to their student or to consent to a psychiatric evaluation, screening, or examination of the student as a ground, by itself, to prohibit the student from attending class or participating in a school-related activity, or as a basis of a charge of child abuse, child neglect, or medical or educational neglect.  The school administration may not impose consecutive suspensions against the same student for the same course of conduct, or incident of misconduct, except where the student will create an immediate and substantial danger to self or to surrounding persons or property or where the school district is in the process of initiating an expulsion, in which case the school administration may extend the suspension to a total of fifteen (15) days.

5. A child with a disability may be suspended.  When a child with a disability has been suspended for more than five (5) consecutive days or ten (10) cumulative school days in the same year, and that suspension does not involve a recommendation for expulsion or exclusion or other change in placement under federal law, relevant members of the child’s IEP team, including at least one of the child’s teachers, shall meet and determine the extent to which the child needs services in order to continue to participate in the general education curriculum, although in another setting, and to progress toward meeting the goals in the child’s IEP.  That meeting must occur as soon as possible, but no more than ten (10) days after the sixth (6th) consecutive day of suspension or the tenth (10th) cumulative day of suspension has elapsed.

6. Alternative education services must be provided to a pupil who is suspended for more than five (5) consecutive school days.  Alternative educational services may include, but are not limited to, special tutoring, modified curriculum, modified instruction, other modifications or adaptations, instruction through electronic media, special education services as indicated by appropriate assessments, homebound instruction, supervised homework, or enrollment in another district or in an alternative learning center under Minn. Stat. § 123A.05 selected to allow the student to progress toward meeting graduation standards under Minn. Stat. § 120B.02, although in a different setting.

7. The school administration shall not suspend a student from school without an informal administrative conference with the student.  The informal administrative conference shall take place before the suspension, except where it appears that the student will create an immediate and substantial danger to self or to surrounding persons or property, in which case the conference shall take place as soon as practicable following the suspension.  At the informal administrative conference, a school administrator shall notify the student of the grounds for the suspension, provide an explanation of the evidence the authorities have, and the student may present the student’s version of the facts.  A separate administrative conference is required for each period of suspension.

8. After school administration notifies a student of the grounds for suspension, school administration may, instead of imposing the suspension, seek an alternative to suspension. 

9. A written notice containing the grounds for suspension, a brief statement of the facts, a description of the testimony, a readmission plan, and a copy of the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56, shall be personally served upon the student at or before the time the suspension is to take effect, and upon the student’s parent or guardian by mail within forty-eight (48) hours of the conference.  (See attached sample Notice of Suspension.)

10. The school administration shall make reasonable efforts to notify the student’s parent or guardian of the suspension by telephone as soon as possible following suspension.

11. In the event a student is suspended without an informal administrative conference on the grounds that the student will create an immediate and substantial danger to surrounding persons or property, the written notice shall be served upon the student and the student’s parent or guardian within forty-eight (48) hours of the suspension.  Service by mail shall be complete upon mailing.

12. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, the student may be suspended pending the school board’s decision in an expulsion or exclusion proceeding, provided that alternative educational services are implemented to the extent that suspension exceeds five (5) consecutive school days.

E. Expulsion and Exclusion Procedures

1. “Expulsion” means a school board action to prohibit an enrolled student from further attendance for up to twelve (12) months from the date the student is expelled.  The authority to expel rests with the school board.

2. “Exclusion” means an action taken by the school board to prevent enrollment or re-enrollment of a student for a period that shall not extend beyond the school year.  The authority to exclude rests with the school board.

3. All expulsion and exclusion proceedings will be held pursuant to and in accordance with the provisions of the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. §§121A.40-121A.56.

4. No expulsion or exclusion shall be imposed without a hearing, unless the right to a hearing is waived in writing by the student and parent or guardian.

5. The student and parent or guardian shall be provided written notice of the school district’s intent to initiate expulsion or exclusion proceedings.  This notice shall be served upon the student and his or her parent or guardian personally or by mail, and shall contain a complete statement of the facts; a list of the witnesses and a description of their testimony; state the date, time and place of hearing; be accompanied by a copy of the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56; describe the non exclusionary discipline practices  accorded the student in an attempt to avoid the expulsion proceedings; and inform the student and parent or guardian of their right to: (1) have a representative of the student’s own choosing, including legal counsel at the hearing; (2) examine the student’s records before the hearing; (3) present evidence; and (4) confront and cross-examine witnesses.  The school district shall advise the student’s parent or guardian that free or low-cost legal assistance may be available and that a legal assistance resource list is available from the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and is posted on its website.

6. The hearing shall be scheduled within ten (10) days of the service of the written notice unless an extension, not to exceed five (5) days, is requested for good cause by the school district, student, parent, or guardian. 

7. All hearings shall be held at a time and place reasonably convenient to the student, parent, or guardian and shall be closed, unless the student, parent, or guardian requests an open hearing.

8. The school district shall record the hearing proceedings at district expense, and a party may obtain a transcript at its own expense.

9. The student shall have a right to a representative of the student’s own choosing, including legal counsel, at the student’s sole expense.  The school district shall advise the student’s parent or guardian that free or low-cost legal assistance may be available and that a legal assistance resource list is available from MDE.  The school board may appoint an attorney to represent the school district in any proceeding.

10. If the student designates a representative other than the parent or guardian, the representative must have a written authorization from the student and the parent or guardian providing them with access to and/or copies of the student’s records.

11. All expulsion or exclusion hearings shall take place before and be conducted by an independent hearing officer designated by the school district.  The hearing shall be conducted in a fair and impartial manner.  Testimony shall be given under oath and the hearing officer shall have the power to issue subpoenas and administer oaths.

12. At a reasonable time prior to the hearing, the student, parent or guardian, or authorized representative shall be given access to all school district records pertaining to the student, including any tests or reports upon which the proposed dismissal action may be based.

13. The student, parent or guardian, or authorized representative, shall have the right to compel the presence of any school district employee or agent or any other person who may have evidence upon which the proposed dismissal action may be based, and to confront and cross-examine any witnesses testifying for the school district.

14. The student, parent or guardian, or authorized representative, shall have the right to present evidence and testimony, including expert psychological or educational testimony.

15. The student cannot be compelled to testify in the dismissal proceedings.

16. The hearing officer shall prepare findings and a recommendation based solely upon substantial evidence presented at the hearing, which must be made to the school board and served upon the parties within two (2) days after the close of the hearing.

17. The school board shall base its decision upon the findings and recommendation of the hearing officer and shall render its decision at a meeting held within five (5) days after receiving the findings and recommendation.  The school board may provide the parties with the opportunity to present exceptions and comments to the hearing officer’s findings and recommendation provided that neither party presents any evidence not admitted at the hearing.  The decision by the school board must be based on the record, must be in writing, and must state the controlling facts on which the decision is made in sufficient detail to apprise the parties and the Commissioner of Education (Commissioner) of the basis and reason for the decision.

18. A party to an expulsion or exclusion decision made by the school board may appeal the decision to the Commissioner within twenty-one (21) calendar days of school board action pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 121A.49.  The decision of the school board shall be implemented during the appeal to the Commissioner.

19. The school district shall report any suspension, expulsion or exclusion action taken to the appropriate public service agency, when the student is under the supervision of such agency.

20. The school district must report, through the MDE electronic reporting system, each expulsion or exclusion within thirty (30) days of the effective date of the action to the Commissioner. This report must include a statement of alternative educational services given the student and the reason for, the effective date, and the duration of the exclusion or expulsion.  The report must also include the student’s age, grade, gender, race, and special education status.  The dismissal report must include state student identification numbers of affected students.

21. Whenever a student fails to return to school within ten (10) school days of the termination of dismissal, a school administrator shall inform the student and his/her parent or guardian by mail of the student’s right to attend and to be reinstated in the school district.

XIII. ADMISSION OR READMISSION PLAN

A school administrator must prepare and enforce an admission or readmission plan for any student who is excluded or expelled from school.  The plan must include measures to improve the student’s behavior, which may include  completing a character education program consistent with Minn. Stat. § 120B.232, Subd. 1, social and emotional learning, counseling, social work services, mental health services, referrals for special education or 504 evaluation, and evidence-based academic interventions.  The plan must include reasonable attempts to obtain and require parental involvement in the admission or readmission process, and may indicate the consequences to the student of not improving the student’s behavior.  The readmission plan must not obligate parents to provide a sympathomimetic medication for their child as a condition of readmission.

XIV. NOTIFICATION OF POLICY VIOLATIONS

Notification of any violation of this policy and resulting disciplinary action shall be as provided herein, or as otherwise provided by the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act or other applicable law.  The teacher, principal or other school district official may provide additional notification as deemed appropriate.

In addition, the school district must report, through the MDE electronic reporting system, each exclusion or expulsion, each physical assault of a school district employee by a pupil, and each pupil withdrawal agreement within thirty (30) days of the effective date of the dismissal action, pupil withdrawal, or assault, to the MDE Commissioner.  This report must include a statement of the nonexclusionary disciplinary practices, or other sanction, intervention, or resolution in response to the assault given to the pupil and the reason for, the effective date, and the duration of the exclusion or expulsion or other sanction, intervention, or resolution.  The report must also include the pupil’s age, grade, gender, race, and special education status.

XV. STUDENT DISCIPLINE RECORDS

The policy of the school district is that complete and accurate student discipline records be maintained.  The collection, dissemination, and maintenance of student discipline records shall be consistent with applicable school district policies and federal and state law, including the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, Minn. Stat. Ch. 13.

XVI. STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

Students who are currently identified as eligible under the IDEA or Section 504 will be subject to the provisions of this policy, unless the student’s IEP or 504 plan specifies a necessary modification.

Before initiating an expulsion or exclusion of a student with a disability, relevant members of the child’s IEP team and the child’s parent shall, consistent with federal law, conduct a manifestation determination and determine whether the child’s behavior was (i) caused by or had a direct and substantial relationship to the child’s disability and (ii) whether the child’s conduct was a direct result of a failure to implement the child’s IEP.  If the student’s educational program is appropriate and the behavior is not a manifestation of the student’s disability, the school district will proceed with discipline – up to and including expulsion – as if the student did not have a disability, unless the student’s educational program provides otherwise.  If the team determines that the behavior subject to discipline is a manifestation of the student’s disability, the team shall conduct a functional behavioral assessment and implement a behavioral intervention plan for such student provided that the school district had not conducted such assessment prior to the manifestation determination before the behavior that resulted in a change of placement.  Where a behavioral intervention plan previously has been developed, the team will review the behavioral intervention plan and modify it as necessary to address the behavior.

When a student who has an IEP is excluded or expelled for misbehavior that is not a manifestation of the student’s disability, the school district shall continue to provide special education and related services during the period of expulsion or exclusion.

XVII. OPEN ENROLLED STUDENTS

The school district may terminate the enrollment of a nonresident student enrolled under an Enrollment Option Program (Minn. Stat. § 124D.03) or Enrollment in Nonresident District (Minn. Stat. § 124D.08) at the end of a school year if the student meets the definition of a habitual truant, the student has been provided appropriate services for truancy (Minn. Stat. Ch. 260A), and the student’s case has been referred to juvenile court.  The school district may also terminate the enrollment of a nonresident student over the age of seventeen (17) enrolled under an Enrollment Options Program if the student is absent without lawful excuse for one or more periods on fifteen (15) school days and has not lawfully withdrawn from school.

XVIII. DISCIPLINE COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

Students, parents and other guardians, and school staff may file a complaint and seek corrective action when the requirements of the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, including the implementation of the local behavior and discipline policies, are not being implemented appropriately or are being discriminately applied.

The Discipline Complaint Procedure must, at a minimum:

1. provide procedures for communicating this policy including the ability for a parent to appeal a decision under Minnesota Statutes, section 121A.49 that contains explicit instructions for filing the complaint;

2.     provide an opportunity for involved parties to submit additional information related to the complaint;

3.     provide a procedure to begin to investigate complaints within three school days of receipt, and identify personnel who will manage the investigation and any resulting record and are responsible for keeping and regulating access to any record;

4.     provide procedures for issuing a written determination to the complainant that addresses each allegation and contains findings and conclusions;

5.     if the investigation finds the requirements of Minnesota Statutes, sections 121A.40 to 121A.61, including any local policies that were not implemented appropriately, contain procedures that require a corrective action plan to correct a student's record and provide relevant staff with training, coaching, or other accountability practices to ensure appropriate compliance with policies in the future; and

6.     prohibit reprisals or retaliation against any person who asserts, alleges, or reports a complaint, and provide procedures for applying appropriate consequences for a person who engages in reprisal or retaliation.

XIX. DISTRIBUTION OF POLICY

The school district will notify students and parents of the existence and contents of this policy in such manner as it deems appropriate.  Copies of this discipline policy shall be made available to all students and parents at the commencement of each school year and to all new students and parents upon enrollment.  This policy shall also be available upon request in each principal’s office.

XX. REVIEW OF POLICY

The principal and representatives of parents, students and staff in each school building shall confer at least annually to review this discipline policy, determine if the policy is working as intended, and to assess whether the discipline policy has been enforced.  Any recommended changes shall be submitted to the superintendent for consideration by the school board, which shall conduct an annual review of this policy.
 

Legal References: Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act)

Minn. Stat. § 120B.02 (Educational Expectations for Minnesota Students)Minn. Stat. § 120B.232 (Character Development Education)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.26 (School Preassessment Teams)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.29 (Reporting; Chemical Abuse)

Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56 (Pupil Fair Dismissal Act)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.575 (Alternatives to Pupil Suspension)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.582 (Reasonable Force)

Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.60-121A.61 (Removal from Class)

Minn. Stat. § 122A.42 (General Control of Schools)

Minn. Stat. § 123A.05 (Area Learning Center Organization)

Minn. Stat. § 124D.03 (Enrollment Options Program)

Minn. Stat. § 124D.08 (Enrollment in Nonresident District)

Minn. Stat. Ch.125A (Students with Disabilities)

Minn. Stat. § 152.22 (Medical Cannabis; Definitions)

Minn. Stat. § 152.23 (Medical Cannabis; Limitations)

Minn. Stat. Ch. 260A (Truancy)

Minn. Stat. Ch. 260C (Juvenile Court Act)

20 U.S.C. §§ 1400-1487 (Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004)

29 U.S.C. § 794 et seq. (Rehabilitation Act of 1973, § 504)

34 C.F.R. § 300.530(e)(1) (Manifestation Determination)

Cross References: MSBA/MASA Model Policy 413 (Harassment and Violence)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 419 (Tobacco-Free Environment; Possession and Use of Tobacco, Tobacco-Related Devices, and Electronic Delivery Devices)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 501 (School Weapons)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 502 (Search of Student Lockers, Desks, Personal Possessions, and Student’s Person)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 503 (Student Attendance)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 505 (Distribution of Nonschool-Sponsored

Materials on School Premises by Students and Employees)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 514 (Bullying Prohibition Policy)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 524 (Internet Acceptable Use and Safety Policy)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 525 (Violence Prevention)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 526 (Hazing Prohibition)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 527 (Student Use and Parking of Motor Vehicles; Patrols, Inspections, and Searches)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 610 (Field Trips)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 709 (Student Transportation Safety Policy)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 711 (Video Recording on School Buses)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 712 (Video Surveillance Other Than on Buses)

(Sample Form)

NOTICE OF SUSPENSION

(Date)

(Name of Parent or Guardian)

(Address)

(City, State, Zip)

Dear (Parent or Guardian)

(Name of Student) has been suspended from (name of school) for (number of days) commencing on (date).

The grounds for suspension are:

Briefly, the facts that have been determined are:

The testimony received was:

An administrative conference to determine the above was conducted before

_________________________, at ______________ on __________________

  (Name of Administrator)            (Time)                    (Date)

pursuant to Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56, a copy of which is enclosed.

The plan of readmission is:

Alternative educational services in the form of homework will be available to be picked up at the school after           [date]      .

While suspended, the student may not come on any school campus except with you for the purpose of discussing conduct.

If you have any questions, please call.

Sincerely,

                                                                     _____________________________

                                                                     Administrator

Enc:  Minn. Stat. §§ 121A.40-121A.56

Policy 506 PDF

Adopted: January 5, 2010 Revised.

507 CORPORAL PUNISHMENT

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to describe limitations on corporal punishment of students.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

No employee or agent of the school district shall cause corporal punishment to be inflicted upon a student to reform unacceptable conduct or as a penalty for unacceptable conduct. As used in this policy, the term "corporal punishment" means conduct involving hitting or spanking a person with or without an object, or unreasonable physical force that causes bodily harm or substantial emotional harm.

III.  EXCEPTIONS

A teacher or school principal may use reasonable force when it is necessary under the circumstances to correct or restrain a student or prevent bodily harm or death to another. Other school district employees, school bus drivers, or other agents of a school district may use reasonable force when necessary under the circumstances to restrain a student or prevent bodily harm or death to another.

IV.  VIOLATION

Employees who violate the provisions of this policy shall be subject to disciplinary action as appropriate. Any such disciplinary action shall be made pursuant to and in accordance with applicable statutory authority, collective bargaining agreements and school district policies. Violation of this policy may also result in civil or criminal liability for the employee.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. $ 121A.58 (Corporal Punishment)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.582 (Student Discipline; Reasonable Force)
Minn. Stat. $ 123B.25 (Actions Against Districts and Teachers)
Minn. Stat. § 609.06 Subd. 1 (6)(7) (Authorized Use ofForce)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 403 (Discipline, Suspension, and Dismissal of School District Employees)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)

Policy507.pdf

Adopted: January 5, 2010 Revised:

508 EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR FOR CERTAIN STUDENTS WITH INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATION PROGRAMS

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the school district complies with the overall requirements of law as mandated for certain students subject to individualized education programs (IEPs) when necessary to provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE).

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. Extended School Year Services Must Be Available to Provide a FAPE.

The school district shall provide extended school year (ESY) services to a student who is the subject of an IEP if the student's IEP team determines the services are necessary during a break in instruction in order to provide a FAPE.

B.  Extended School Year Determination.

At least annually, the IEP team must determine that a student is in need of ESY services if the student meets any of the following conditions:

1.There will be significant regression of a skill or acquired knowledge from the student's level of performance on an annual goal that requires more than the length of the break in instruction to recoup unless the IEP team determines a shorter time for recoupment is more appropriate; OR

2. Services are necessary for the student to attain and maintain self­-sufficiency because of the critical nature of the skill addressed by an annual goal, the student's age and level of development, and the timeliness for teaching the skill; OR

3. The IEP team otherwise determines, given the student's unique needs, that ESY services are necessary to ensure the pupil receives a F APE.

C. Required Factors Schools Must Consider in Making ESY Determinations.

The IEP team must decide ESY eligibility using information including:

1. Prior observations of the student's regression and recoupment over the summer;

2. Observations of the student's tendency to regress over extended breaks in instruction during the school year; and

3. Experience with other students with similar instructional needs.

D. Additional Factors to Consider, Where Relevant. In making its determination of ESY needs, the following factors must be considered, where relevant:

1. The student's progress and maintenance of skills during the regular school year.

2. The student's degree of impairment.

3. The student's rate of progress.

4. The student's behavioral or physical problems.

5. The availability of alternative resources.

6. The student's ability and need to interact with nondisabled peers.

7. The areas of the student's curriculum which need continuous attention.

8. The student's vocational needs.

No Unilateral Decisions. In the course of providing ESY services to children with disabilities, the school district may not unilaterally limit the type, amount, or duration of those services.

Services to Nonresident Students Temporarily Placed in School District. A school district may provide ESY services to nonresident children with disabilities temporarily placed in the school district in accordance with applicable state law.

Legal References:

Cross References:

Policy508.pdf

June 16, 2015

Revised October 3, 2023

509     ENROLLMENT OF NONRESIDENT STUDENTS

I. PURPOSE

The school district desires to participate in the Enrollment Options Program (Open Enrollment) established by Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.03. The purpose of this policy is to set forth the application and exclusion procedures used by the school district in making said determination.

II. General Statement of Policy

     The school board adopts specific standards for acceptance and rejection of open enrollment applications. 

III.  Open Enrollment Process 

A. Open Enrollment applications will be approved provided that acceptance of the application will not exceed the capacity of a program, excluding special education services; class; grade level; or school building as established by school board resolution and provided that:

1. space is available for the applicant under enrollment cap standards established by school board policy or other directive; and

2. in considering the capacity of a grade level, the school district may only limit the enrollment of nonresident students to a number not less than the lesser of: (a) one percent of the total enrollment at each grade level in the school district; or (b) the number of school district resident students at that grade level enrolled in a nonresident school district in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.03.

3. the applicant is not otherwise excluded by action fo the school district because of previous conduct in another school district.

B. If the school district limits enrollment of nonresident students pursuant to this section, the district shall report to the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) by July 15 on the number of nonresident pupils denied admission due to the limitations on the enrollment of nonresident pupils. 

IV. BASIS FOR DECISIONS

A. Standards that may be used for rejection of application 

In addition to the provisions above, the school district may refuse to allow a pupil who is expelled under Minnesota Statutes, section 121A.45 to enroll during the term of the expulsion if the student was expelled for:

1. possessing a dangerous weapon, including a weapon, device, instrument, material, or substance, animate or inanimate, that is used for, or is readily capable of, causing death or serious bodily injury, except that such term does not include a pocket knife with a blade less than two and one-half inches in length, at school or a school function;

2. possessing or using an illegal drug at school or a school function;

3. selling or soliciting the sale of a controlled substance while at school or a school function; or

4. committing a third-degree assault involving assaulting another and inflicting substantial bodily harm.

C. Standards that may not be used for rejection of application 

The school district may not use the following standards in determining whether to accept or reject an application for open enrollment:

1. previous academic achievement of a student;

2. athletic or extracurricular ability of a student;

3. disabling conditions of a student;

4. a student’s proficiency in the English language;

5. the student’s district of residence except where the district of residence is directly included in an enrollment options strategy included in an approved achievement and integration program; or

6. previous disciplinary proceedings involving the student. This shall not preclude the school district from proceeding with exclusion as set out in this policy.

D. Application

The student and parent or guardian must complete and submit the “General Statewide Enrollment Options Application for K-12 and Early Childhood Special Education (or the Statewide Enrollment Options Application for State-funded Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) or School Readiness Plus (SRP) Application if applicable) developed by MDE and available on its website.

The school district may require a nonresident student enrolled in a program under Minnesota Statutes, section 125A.13, or in a preschool program, except for a program under Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.151 or Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 5, article 8, section 9, to follow the application procedures under this subdivision to enroll in kindergarten. A district must allow a nonresident student enrolled in a program under Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.151 or Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 5, article 8, section 9, to remain enrolled in the district when the student enters kindergarten without submitting annual or periodic applications, unless the district terminates the student's enrollment under subdivision 12.

The school district shall notify the parent or guardian in writing by February 15 or within ninety (90) days for applications submitted after January 15 in the case of achievement and integration district transfers whether the application has been accepted or rejected. If an application is rejected, the district must state in the notification the reason for rejection. The parent or guardian must notify the nonresident district by March 1 or within ten (10) business days whether the pupil intends to enroll in the nonresident district. 

E. Lotteries

If a school district has more applications than available seats at a specific grade level, it must hold an impartial lottery following the January 15 deadline to determine which students will receive seats. The district must give priority to enrolling siblings of currently enrolled students, students whose applications are related to an approved integration and achievement plan, children of the school district’s staff, and students residing in that part of a municipality (a statutory or home rule charter city or town) where:

1. the student’s resident district does not operate a school building;

2. the municipality is located partially or fully within the boundaries of at least five school districts;

3. the nonresident district in which the student seeks to enroll operates one or more school buildings within the municipality; and

4. no other  nonresident,  independent,  special,  or  common  school  district operates a school building within the municipality.

The process for the school district lottery must be established by school board policy and posted on the school district’s website.

F. Exclusion

1. Administrator’s initial determination. If a school district administrator knows or has reason to believe that an applicant has engaged in conduct that has subjected or could subject the applicant to expulsion or exclusion under law or school district policy, the administrator will transmit the application to the superintendent with a recommendation of whether exclusion proceedings should be initiated.

2. Superintendent’s review. The superintendent may make further inquiries. If the superintendent determines that the applicant should be admitted, he or she will notify the applicant and the school board chair. If the superintendent determines that the applicant should be excluded, the superintendent will notify the applicant and determine whether the applicant wishes to continue the application process. Although an application may not be rejected based on previous disciplinary proceedings, the school district reserves the right to initiate exclusion procedures pursuant to the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act as warranted on a case-by-case basis.

G. Termination of Enrollment

The school district may terminate the enrollment of a nonresident student enrolled under an enrollment options program pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.03 or 124D.08 at the end of a school year if the student meets the definition of a habitual truant, the student has been provided appropriate services for truancy under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 260A, and the student’s case has been referred to juvenile court. A “habitual truant” is a child under 17 years of age who is absent from attendance at school without  lawful excuse for seven school days in a school year if the child is in elementary school or for one or more class periods on seven school days in a school year if the child is in middle school, junior high school, or high school, or a child who is 17 years of age who is absent from attendance at school without lawful excuse for one or more class periods on seven school days in a school year and who has not lawfully withdrawn from school under Minnesota Statutes, section 120A.22, subdivision 8.    The school district may also terminate the enrollment of a nonresident student over 17 years of age if the student is absent without lawful excuse for one or more periods on 15 school days and has not lawfully withdrawn from school under Minnesota Statutes, section 120A.22, subdivision 8.

A student who has not applied for and been accepted for open enrollment pursuant to this policy and does not otherwise meet the residency requirements for enrollment may be terminated from enrollment and removed from school. Prior to removal from school, the school district will send to the student’s parents a written notice of the school district’s belief that the student is not a resident of the school district. The notice shall include the facts upon which the belief is based and notice to the parents of their opportunity to provide documentary evidence, in person or in writing, of residency to the superintendent or the superintendent’s designee. The superintendent or the superintendent’s designee will make the final determination as to the residency status of the student.

Notwithstanding the requirement that an application must be approved by the board of the nonresident district, a student who has been enrolled in a district, who is identified as homeless, and whose parent or legal guardian moves to another district, or who is placed in foster care in another school district, may continue to enroll in the nonresident district without the approval of the board of the nonresident district. The approval of the board of the student’s resident district is not required.

Legal References: Minn. Stat. § 120A.22, Subd. 3(e) and Subd. 8 (Compulsory Instruction)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.40-121A.56 (Pupil Fair Dismissal Act) 

Minn. Stat. § 124D.03 (Enrollment Options Program)

Minn. Stat. § 124D.08 (School Board Approval to Enroll in Nonresident District; Exceptions)

Minn. Stat. § 124D.68 (Graduation Incentives Program) 

Minn. Stat. Ch. 260A (Truancy)

Minn. Stat. § 260C.007, Subd. 19 (Definitions) 

Minn. Op. Atty. Gen. 169-f (Aug. 13, 1986)

Indep. Sch. Dist. No. 623 v. Minn. Dept. of Educ., Co. No. A05-361, 2005 

WL 3111963 (Minn. Ct. App. 2005) (unpublished)

18 U.S.C. 930, para. (g)(2) (Definition of weapon)

Cross References: MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline) MSBA/MASA Model Policy 517 (Student Recruiting)

Policy509.pdf

Interested in open enrolling at St. Anthony - New Brighton Schools? Visit our enrollment page for more details on how to apply. 

Adopted: January 5, 2010 Revised:

510 SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to impart to students, employees and the community the school district’s policy related to the student activity program.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

School activities provide additional opportunities for students to pursue special interests that contribute to their physical, mental and emotional well-being. They are of secondary importance in relationship to the formal instructional program; however, they complement the instructional program in providing students with additional opportunities for growth and development.

III. RESPONSIBILITY

A. The school board expects all students who participate in school sponsored activities to represent the school and community in a responsible manner. All rules pertaining to student conduct and student discipline extend to school activities.

B. The school board expects all spectators at school sponsored activities, including parents, employees, and other members of the public, to behave in an appropriate manner at those activities. Students and employees may be subject to discipline and parents and other spectators may be subject to sanctions for engaging in misbehavior or inappropriate, illegal or unsportsmanlike behavior at these activities or events.

C. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to disseminate information needed to inform students, parents, staff and the community of the opportunities available within the school activity program and the rules of participation.

D. Those students who participate in Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) activities must also abide by the league rules. It shall be the responsibility of those employees who conduct MSHSL activities to familiarize students and parents with all applicable rules, penalties, and opportunities.

E. The superintendent shall be responsible for conducting an annual evaluation of school activity programs and presenting the results and any recommendations to the school board in time for the budgeting process for the following year.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 123B.49 (Cocurricular and Extracurricular Activities)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 503 (Student Attendance)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)
MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 5, Various Educational Programs

Policy510.pdf

Adopted: January 5, 2010 Revised:

512 SCHOOL-SPONSORED STUDENT PUBLICATIONS AND ACTIVITIES

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to protect students’ rights to free speech in production of official school publications and activities while at the same time balancing the school district’s role in supervising student publications and the operation of public schools.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. The school district may exercise editorial control over the style and content of student expression in school-sponsored publications and activities.

B. Expressions and representations made by students in school-sponsored publications and activities are not expressions of official school district policy. Faculty advisors shall supervise student writers to ensure compliance with the law and school district policies.

C. Students who believe their right to free expression has been unreasonably restricted in an official student publication or activity may seek review of the decision by the building principal. The principal shall issue a decision no later than three (3) school days after review is requested.

1. Students producing official school publications and activities shall be under the supervision of a faculty advisor and the school principal. Official publications and activities shall be subject to the guidelines set forth below.

2. Official school publications may be distributed at reasonable times and locations.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. “Distribution” means circulation or dissemination of material by means of handing out free copies, selling or offering copies for sale, accepting donations for copies, posting or displaying material, or placing materials in internal staff or student mailboxes.

B. “Official school publications” means school newspapers, yearbooks or material produced in communications, journalism or other writing classes as a part of the curriculum.

C. “Obscene to minors” means:

1. The average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the material, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest of minors of the age to whom distribution is requested;

2. The material depicts or describes, in a manner that is patently offensive to prevailing standards in the adult community concerning how such conduct should be presented to minors of the age to whom distribution is requested, sexual conduct such as intimate sexual acts (normal or perverted), masturbation, excretory functions, or lewd exhibition of the genitals; and

3. The material, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value for minors.

D. “Minor” means any person under the age of eighteen (18).

E. “Material and substantial disruption” of a normal school activity means:

1. Where the normal school activity is an educational program of the school district for which student attendance is compulsory, “material and substantial disruption” is defined as any disruption which interferes with or impedes the implementation of that program.

2. Where the normal school activity is voluntary in nature (including, without limitation, school athletic events, school plays and concerts, and lunch periods) “material and substantial disruption” is defined as student rioting, unlawful seizures of property, conduct inappropriate to the event, participation in a school boycott, demonstration, sit-in, stand-in, walk-out, or other related forms of activity. In order for expression to be considered disruptive, there must exist specific facts upon which the likelihood of disruption can be forecast, including past experience in the school, current events influencing student activities and behavior, and instances of actual or threatened disruption relating to the written material in question.

F. “School activities” means any activity of students sponsored by the school including, but not limited to, classroom work, library activities, physical education classes, official assemblies and other similar gatherings, school athletic contests, band concerts, school plays and other theatrical productions, and inschool lunch periods.

G. “Libelous” is a false and unprivileged statement about a specific individual that tends to harm the individual’s reputation or to lower that individual in the esteem of the community.

IV. GUIDELINES

A. Expression in an official school publication or school-sponsored activity is prohibited when the material:

1. is obscene to minors;

2. is libelous or slanderous;

3. advertises or promotes any product or service not permitted for minors by law;

4. encourages students to commit illegal acts or violate school regulations or substantially disrupts the orderly operation of school or school activities;

5. expresses or advocates sexual, racial or religious harassment or violence or prejudice;

6. is distributed or displayed in violation of time, place and manner regulations.

B. Expression in an official school publication or school-sponsored activity is subject to editorial control by the school district over the style and content so long as the school district’s actions are reasonably related to legitimate pedagogical concerns. These may include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. assuring that participants learn whatever lessons the activity is designed to teach;

2. assuring that readers or listeners are not exposed to material that may be inappropriate for their level of maturity;

3. assuring that the views of the individual speaker are not erroneously attributed to the school;

4. assuring that the school is not associated with any position other than neutrality on matters of political controversy;

5. assuring that the sponsored student speech cannot reasonably be perceived to advocate conduct otherwise inconsistent with the shared values of a civilized social order;

6. assuring that the school is not associated with expression that is, for example, ungrammatical, poorly written, inadequately researched, biased or prejudiced, vulgar or profane, or unsuitable for immature audiences.

C. Time, Place and Manner of Distribution Students shall be permitted to distribute written materials at school as follows:

1. Time Distribution shall be limited to the hours before the school day begins, during lunch hour and after school is dismissed.

2. Place Written materials may be distributed in locations so as not to interfere with the normal flow of traffic within the school hallways, walkways, entry ways and parking lots. Distribution shall not impede entrance to or exit from school premises in any way.

3. Manner No one shall induce or coerce a student or staff member to accept a student publication.

Legal References:

U. S. Const., amend. I Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier, 484 U.S. 260, 108 S.Ct. 562, 98 L.Ed. 2d 592 (1988)
Bystrom v. Fridley High School, I.S.D. No. 14, 822 F. 2d 747 (8th Cir. 1987)
Morse v. Frederick, ___ U.S. ___, 127 S.Ct. 2618, 168 L.Ed. 2d 290 (2007)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 505 (Distribution of Nonschool-Sponsored Materials on School Premises by Students and Employees)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 904 (Distribution of Materials on School District Property by Nonschool Persons)

Policy512.pdf

Adopted: January 5, 2010 Revised: October 2024

513 STUDENT PROMOTION, RETENTION, AND PROGRAM DESIGN

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to professional staff, parents and students regarding student promotion, retention and program design.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The school board expects all students to achieve at an acceptable level of proficiency. Parental assistance, tutorial and remedial programs, counseling and other appropriate services shall be coordinated and utilized to the greatest extent possible to help students succeed in school.

A. Promotion

Students who achieve at levels deemed acceptable by local and state standards shall be promoted to the next grade level at the completion of each school year.

B. Retention

Retention of a student may be considered when professional staff and parents feel that it is in the best interest of the student.  Physical development, maturity, and emotional factors shall be considered, as well as scholastic achievement. The superintendent’s decision shall be final.

C. Program Design

1. The superintendent, with participation of the professional staff and parents, shall develop and implement programs to challenge students that are consistent with the needs of students at every level.  A process to assess and evaluate students for program assignment shall be developed in coordination with such programs.  Opportunities for special programs and placement outside of the school district shall also be developed as additional options.  All programs will be aligned with creating comprehensive achievement and civic readiness.

2. The school district may identify students, locally develop programs and services addressing instructional and affective needs, provide staff development, and evaluate programs to provide gifted and talented students with challenging and appropriate educational programs and services.

3. The school district must adopt guidelines for assessing and identifying students for participation in gifted and talented programs and services consistent with Minnesota Statutes, section 120B.11.  The guidelines should include the use of: 

• a. multiple objectives criteria; and
• b. assessments and procedures that are valid and reliable, fair, and based on current theory and research. Assessments and procedures should be sensitive to under-represented groups, including, but not limited to, low-income, minority, twice-exceptional, and English learners.

4. The school district  must adopt procedures for the academic acceleration of gifted and talented students.  These procedures will include how the school district will:

• a. assess a student's readiness and motivation for acceleration; and
• b. match the level, complexity, and pace of the curriculum to a student to achieve the best type of academic acceleration for that student.

5. The school district must adopt procedures consistent with Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.02 for early admission to kindergarten or first grade of gifted or talented learners consistent with Minnesota Statutes, section 120B.11, subdivision 2, clause (2). The procedures must be sensitive to under-represented groups.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 120B.15 (Gifted and Talented Program)
Minn. Stat. § 123B.143, Subd. 1 (Superintendents)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 613 (Graduation Requirements)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 614 (School District Testing Plan and Procedure)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 615 (Testing Accommodations, Modifications, and Exemptions for IEPs, Section 504 Plans, and LEP Students)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 617 (School District Ensurance of Preparatory and High School Standards)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 618 (Assessment of Student Achievement)
MSBA/MASA Model Policy 620 (Credit for Learning)

Revised and Adopted October 4, 2022

514 BULLYING PROHIBITION POLICY

I. PURPOSE

A safe and civil environment is needed for students to learn and attain high academic standards and to promote healthy human relationships. Bullying, like other violent or disruptive behavior, is conduct that interferes with a student’s ability to learn and/or a teacher’s ability to educate students in a safe environment. The school district cannot monitor the activities of students at all times and eliminate all incidents of bullying between students, particularly when students are not under the direct supervision of school personnel. However, to the extent such conduct affects the educational environment of the school district and the rights and welfare of its students and is within the control of the school district in its normal operations, the school district intends to prevent bullying and to take action to investigate, respond to, and to remediate and discipline for those acts of bullying which have not been successfully prevented. The purpose of this policy is to assist the school district in its goal of preventing and responding to acts of bullying, intimidation, violence, reprisal, retaliation, and other similar disruptive and detrimental behavior.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

A. An act of bullying, by either an individual student or a group of students, is expressly prohibited on school premises, on school district property, at school functions or activities, or on school transportation. This policy applies not only to students who directly engage in an act of bullying but also to students who, by their indirect behavior, condone or support another student’s act of bullying. This policy also applies to any student whose conduct at any time or in any place constitutes bullying or other prohibited conduct that interferes with or obstructs the mission or operations of the school district or the safety or welfare of the student or other students, or materially and substantially interferes with a student’s educational opportunities or performance or ability to participate in school functions or activities or receive school benefits, services, or privileges. This policy also applies to an act of cyberbullying regardless of whether such act is committed on or off school district property and/or with or without the use of school district resources.

B. No teacher, administrator, volunteer, contractor, or other employee of the school district shall permit, condone, or tolerate bullying.

C. Apparent permission or consent by a student being bullied does not lessen or negate the prohibitions contained in this policy. Retaliation against a victim, good faith reporter, or a witness of bullying is prohibited.

D. False accusations or reports of bullying against another student are prohibited.

E. A person who engages in an act of bullying, reprisal, retaliation, or false reporting of bullying or permits, condones, or tolerates bullying shall be subject to discipline or other remedial responses for that act in accordance with the school district’s policies and procedures, including the school district’s discipline policy (See Policy 506). The school district may take into account the following factors:

1. The developmental ages and maturity levels of the parties involved;

2. The levels of harm, surrounding circumstances, and nature of the behavior;

3. Past incidences or past or continuing patterns of behavior;

4. The relationship between the parties involved; and

5. The context in which the alleged incidents occurred. Consequences for students who commit prohibited acts of bullying may range from remedial responses or positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension and/or expulsion. The school district shall employ research-based developmentally appropriate best practices that include preventative and remedial measures and effective discipline for deterring violations of this policy, apply throughout the school district, and foster student, parent, and community participation. Consequences for employees who permit, condone, or tolerate bullying or engage in an act of reprisal or intentional false reporting of bullying may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination or discharge. Consequences for other individuals engaging in prohibited acts of bullying may include, but not be limited to, exclusion from school district property and events.

F. The school district will act to investigate all complaints of bullying reported to the school district and will discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, volunteer, contractor, or other employee of the school district who is found to have violated this policy.

III. DEFINITIONS

For purposes of this policy, the definitions included in this section apply.

A. “Bullying” means intimidating, threatening, abusive, or harming conduct that is objectively offensive and:

1. an actual or perceived imbalance of power exists between the student engaging in the prohibited conduct and the target of the prohibited conduct, and the conduct is repeated or forms a pattern; or

2. materially and substantially interferes with a student’s educational opportunities or performance or ability to participate in school functions or activities or receive school benefits, services, or privileges. The term, “bullying,” specifically includes cyberbullying as defined in this policy.

B. “Cyberbullying” means bullying using technology or other electronic communication, including, but not limited to, a transfer of a sign, signal, writing, image, sound, or data, including a post on a social network Internet website or forum, transmitted through a computer, cell phone, or other electronic device. The term applies to prohibited conduct which occurs on school premises, on school district property, at school functions or activities, on school transportation, or on school computers, networks, forums, and mailing lists, or off school premises to the extent that it substantially and materially disrupts student learning or the school environment.

C. “Immediately” means as soon as possible but in no event longer than 24 hours.

D. “Intimidating, threatening, abusive, or harming conduct” means, but is not limited to, conduct that does the following:

1. Causes physical harm to a student or a student’s property or causes a student to be in reasonable fear of harm to person or property;

2. Under Minnesota common law, violates a student’s reasonable expectation of privacy, defames a student, or constitutes intentional infliction of emotional distress against a student; or

3. Is directed at any student or students, including those based on a person’s actual or perceived race, ethnicity, color, creed, religion, national origin, immigration status, sex, marital status, familial status, socioeconomic status, physical appearance, sexual orientation including gender identity and expression, academic status related to student performance, disability, or status with regard to public assistance, age, or any additional characteristic defined in the Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA). However, prohibited conduct need not be based on any particular characteristic defined in this paragraph or the MHRA.

E. “On school premises, on school district property, at school functions or activities, or on school transportation” means all school district buildings, school grounds, and school property or property immediately adjacent to school grounds, school bus stops, school buses, school vehicles, school contracted vehicles, or any other vehicles approved for school district purposes, the area of entrance or departure from school grounds, premises, or events, and all school-related functions, school- sponsored activities, events, or trips. School district property also may mean a student’s walking route to or from school for purposes of attending school or school-related functions, activities, or events. While prohibiting bullying at these locations and events, the school district does not represent that it will provide supervision or assume liability at these locations and events.

F. “Prohibited conduct” means bullying or cyberbullying as defined in this policy or retaliation or reprisal for asserting, alleging, reporting, or providing information about such conduct or knowingly making a false report about bullying.

G. “Remedial response” means a measure to stop and correct prohibited conduct, prevent prohibited conduct from recurring, and protect, support, and intervene on behalf of a student who is the target or victim of prohibited conduct. H. “Student” means a student enrolled in a public school or a charter school.

IV. REPORTING PROCEDURE

A. Any person who believes he or she has been the target or victim of bullying or any person with knowledge or belief of conduct that may constitute bullying or prohibited conduct under this policy shall report the alleged acts immediately to an appropriate school district official designated by this policy. A person may report bullying anonymously. However, the school district may not rely solely on an anonymous report to determine discipline or other remedial responses.

B. The school district encourages the reporting party or complainant to use the report form available from the principal or building supervisor of each building or available in the school district office, but oral reports shall be considered complaints as well.

C. The building principal, the principal’s designee, or the building supervisor (hereinafter the “building report taker”) is the person responsible for receiving reports of bullying or other prohibited conduct at the building level. Any person may report bullying or other prohibited conduct directly to a school district human rights officer or the superintendent. If the complaint involves the building report taker, the complaint shall be made or filed directly with the superintendent or the school district human rights officer by the reporting party or complainant. The building report taker shall ensure that this policy and its procedures, practices, consequences, and sanctions are fairly and fully implemented and shall serve as the primary contact on policy and procedural matters. The building report taker or a third party designated by the school district shall be responsible for the investigation. The building report taker shall provide information about available community resources to the target or victim of the bullying or other prohibited conduct, the perpetrator, and other affected individuals as appropriate.

D. A teacher, school administrator, volunteer, contractor, or other school employee shall be particularly alert to possible situations, circumstances, or events that might include bullying. Any such person who witnesses, observes, receives a report of, or has other knowledge or belief of conduct that may constitute bullying or other prohibited conduct shall make reasonable efforts to address and resolve the bullying or prohibited conduct and shall inform the building report taker immediately. School district personnel who fail to inform the building report taker of conduct that may constitute bullying or other prohibited conduct or who fail to make reasonable efforts to address and resolve the bullying or prohibited conduct in a timely manner may be subject to disciplinary action.

E. Reports of bullying or other prohibited conduct are classified as private educational and/or personnel data and/or confidential investigative data and will not be disclosed except as permitted by law. The building report taker, in conjunction with the responsible authority, shall be responsible for keeping and regulating access to any report of bullying and the record of any resulting investigation.

F. Submission of a good faith complaint or report of bullying or other prohibited conduct will not affect the complainant’s or reporter’s future employment, grades, work assignments, or educational or work environment.

G. The school district will respect the privacy of the complainant(s), the individual(s) against whom the complaint is filed, and the witnesses as much as possible, consistent with the school district’s obligation to investigate, take appropriate action, and comply with any legal disclosure obligations.

V. SCHOOL DISTRICT ACTION

A. Within three days of the receipt of a complaint or report of bullying or other prohibited conduct, the school district shall undertake or authorize an investigation by the building report taker or a third party designated by the school district.

B. The building report taker or other appropriate school district officials may take immediate steps, at their discretion, to protect the target or victim of the bullying or other prohibited conduct, the complainant, the reporter, and students or others, pending completion of an investigation of the bullying or other prohibited conduct, consistent with applicable law.

C. The alleged perpetrator of the bullying or other prohibited conduct shall be allowed the opportunity to present a defense during the investigation or prior to the imposition of discipline or other remedial responses.

D. Upon completion of an investigation that determines that bullying or other prohibited conduct has occurred, the school district will take appropriate action. Such action may include, but is not limited to, warning, suspension, exclusion, expulsion, transfer, remediation, termination, or discharge. Disciplinary consequences will be sufficiently severe to try to deter violations and to appropriately discipline prohibited conduct. Remedial responses to the bullying or other prohibited conduct shall be tailored to the particular incident and nature of the conduct and shall take into account the factors specified in Section II.F. of this policy. School district action taken for violation of this policy will be consistent with the requirements of applicable collective bargaining agreements; applicable statutory authority, including the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act; the student discipline policy (See Policy 506) and other applicable school district policies; and applicable regulations.

E. The school district is not authorized to disclose to a victim private educational or personnel data regarding an alleged perpetrator who is a student or employee of the school district. School officials will notify the parent(s) or guardian(s) of students who are targets of bullying or other prohibited conduct and the parent(s) or guardian(s) of alleged perpetrators of bullying or other prohibited conduct who have been involved in a reported and confirmed bullying incident of the remedial or disciplinary action taken, to the extent permitted by law.

F. In order to prevent or respond to bullying or other prohibited conduct committed by or directed against a child with a disability, the school district shall, when determined appropriate by the child’s individualized education program (IEP) team or Section 504 team, allow the child’s IEP or Section 504 plan to be drafted to address the skills and proficiencies the child needs as a result of the child’s disability to allow the child to respond to or not to engage in bullying or other prohibited conduct.

VI. RETALIATION OR REPRISAL

The school district will discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, volunteer, contractor, or other employee of the school district who commits an act of reprisal or who retaliates against any person who asserts, alleges, or makes a good faith report of alleged bullying or prohibited conduct, who provides information about bullying or prohibited conduct, who testifies, assists, or participates in an investigation of alleged bullying or prohibited conduct, or who testifies, assists, or participates in a proceeding or hearing relating to such bullying or prohibited conduct. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal, harassment, or intentional disparate treatment. Disciplinary consequences will be sufficiently severe to deter violations and to appropriately discipline the individual(s) who engaged in the prohibited conduct. Remedial responses to the prohibited conduct shall be tailored to the particular incident and nature of the conduct and shall take into account the factors specified in Section II.F. of this policy.

VII. TRAINING AND EDUCATION

A. The school district shall discuss this policy with school personnel and volunteers and provide appropriate training to school district personnel regarding this policy. The school district shall establish a training cycle for school personnel to occur during a period not to exceed every three school years. Newly employed school personnel must receive the training within the first year of their employment with the school district. The school district or a school administrator may accelerate the training cycle or provide additional training based on a particular need or circumstance. This policy shall be included in employee handbooks, training materials, and publications on school rules, procedures, and standards of conduct, which materials shall also be used to publicize this policy.

B. The school district shall require ongoing professional development, consistent with Minnesota Statutes section 122A.60, to build the skills of all school personnel who regularly interact with students to identify, prevent, and appropriately address bullying and other prohibited conduct. Such professional development includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. Developmentally appropriate strategies both to prevent and to immediately and effectively intervene to stop prohibited conduct;

2. The complex dynamics affecting a perpetrator, target, and witnesses to prohibited conduct;

3. Research on prohibited conduct, including specific categories of students at risk for perpetrating or being the target or victim of bullying or other prohibited conduct in school;

4. The incidence and nature of cyberbullying; and

5. Internet safety and cyberbullying.

C. The school district annually will provide education and information to students regarding bullying, including information regarding this school district policy prohibiting bullying, the harmful effects of bullying, and other applicable initiatives to prevent bullying and other prohibited conduct.

D. The administration of the school district is directed to implement programs and other initiatives to prevent bullying, to respond to bullying in a manner that does not stigmatize the target or victim, and to make resources or referrals to resources available to targets or victims of bullying.

E. The administration is encouraged to provide developmentally appropriate instruction and is directed to review programmatic instruction to determine if adjustments are necessary to help students identify and prevent or reduce bullying and other prohibited conduct, to value diversity in school and society, to develop and improve students’ knowledge and skills for solving problems, managing conflict, engaging in civil discourse, and recognizing, responding to, and reporting bullying or other prohibited conduct, and to make effective prevention and intervention programs available to students. The administration must establish strategies for creating a positive school climate and use evidence-based social-emotional learning to prevent and reduce discrimination and other improper conduct. The administration is encouraged, to the extent practicable, to take such actions as it may deem appropriate to accomplish the following:

1. Engage all students in creating a safe and supportive school environment;

2. Partner with parents and other community members to develop and implement prevention and intervention programs;

3. Engage all students and adults in integrating education, intervention, and other remedial responses into the school environment;

4. Train student bystanders to intervene in and report incidents of bullying and other prohibited conduct to the schools’ primary contact person;

5. Teach students to advocate for themselves and others;

6. Prevent inappropriate referrals to special education of students who may engage in bullying or other prohibited conduct; and

7. Foster student collaborations that, in turn, foster a safe and supportive school climate.

F. The school district may implement violence prevention and character development education programs to prevent or reduce policy violations. Such programs may offer instruction on character education including, but not limited to, character qualities such as attentiveness, truthfulness, respect for authority, diligence, gratefulness, self-discipline, patience, forgiveness, respect for others, peacemaking, and resourcefulness.

G. The school district shall inform affected students and their parents of rights they may have under state and federal data practices laws to obtain access to data related to an incident and their right to contest the accuracy or completeness of the data. The school district may accomplish this requirement by inclusion of all or applicable parts of its protection and privacy of pupil records policy (See Policy 515) in the student handbook.

VIII. NOTICE

A. The school district will give annual notice of this policy to students, parents or guardians, and staff, and this policy shall appear in the student handbook.

B. This policy or a summary thereof must be conspicuously posted in the administrative offices of the school district and the office of each school.

C. This policy must be given to each school employee and independent contractor who regularly interacts with students at the time of initial employment with the school district.

D. Notice of the rights and responsibilities of students and their parents under this policy must be included in the student discipline policy (See Model Policy 506) distributed to parents at the beginning of each school year.

E. This policy shall be available to all parents and other school community members in an electronic format in the language appearing on the school district’s or a school’s website.

F. The school district shall provide an electronic copy of its most recently amended policy to the Commissioner of Education.

IX. POLICY REVIEW

To the extent practicable, the school board shall, on a cycle consistent with other school district policies, review and revise this policy. The policy shall be made consistent with Minnesota Statutes section 121A.031 and other applicable law. Revisions shall be made in consultation with students, parents, and community organizations.

Revised: November 13, 2013 Adopted: November 19, 2013

515 PROTECTION AND PRIVACY OF PUPIL RECORDS

I. PURPOSE

The school district recognizes its responsibility in regard to the collection, maintenance, and dissemination of pupil records and the protection of the privacy rights of students as provided in federal law and state statutes.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The following procedures and policies regarding the protection and privacy of parents and students are adopted by the school district, pursuant to the requirements of 20 U.S.C. § 1232g, et seq., (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)) 34 C.F.R. Part 99 and consistent with the requirements of the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, Minn. Stat. Ch. 13, and Minn. Rules Parts 1205.0100-1205.2000.

III. DEFINITIONS

A. Authorized Representative

“Authorized representative” means any entity or individual designated by the school district, state, or an agency headed by an official of the Comptroller of the United States, the Attorney General of the United States, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, or state and local educational authorities to conduct, with respect to federal or state supported education programs, any audit or evaluation or any compliance or enforcement activity in connection with federal legal requirements that relate to these programs.

B. Biometric Record

“Biometric record,” as referred to in “Personally Identifiable,” means a record of one or more measurable biological or behavioral characteristics that can be used for authorized recognition of an individual (e.g., fingerprints, retina and iris patterns, voice prints, DNA sequence, facial characteristics, and handwriting). 

C. Dates of Attendance

“Dates of attendance,” as referred to in “Directory Information,” means the period of time during which a student attends or attended a school or schools in the school district, including attendance in person or by paper correspondence, satellite, internet or other electronic communication technologies for students who are not in the classroom, and including the period during which a student is working under a work-study program. The term does not include specific daily records of a student’s attendance at a school or schools in the school district.

D. Directory Information

“Directory information” means information contained in an education record of a student which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. It includes, but is not limited to: the student’s name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address, photograph, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, grade level, enrollment status (i.e., full-time or part-time), participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, degrees, honors and awards received, and the most recent educational agency or institution attended. It also includes the name, address, and telephone number of the student’s parent(s). Directory information does not include:

1. a student’s social security number;

2. a student’s identification number (ID), user ID, or other unique personal identifier used by a student for purposes of accessing or communicating in electronic systems if the identifier may be used to access education records without use of one or more factors that authenticate the student’s identity such as a personal identification number (PIN), password, or other factor known or possessed only by the authorized user;

3. a student ID or other unique personal identifier that is displayed on a student ID badge if the identifier can be used to gain access to educational records when used in conjunction with one or more factors that authenticate the student’s identity, such as a PIN, password, or other factor known or possessed only by the student;

4. personally identifiable data which references religion, race, color, social position, or nationality; or

5. data collected from nonpublic school students, other than those who receive shared time educational services, unless written consent is given by the student’s parent or guardian.

E. Education Records

1. What constitutes “education records.” Education records means those records which:

(1) are directly related to a student; and   (2) are maintained by the school district or by a party acting for the school district.

2. What does not constitute an education record. The term, “education records,” does not include:

a. Records of instructional personnel which:

(1) are in the sole possession of the maker of the record; and  (2) are not accessible or revealed to any other individual except a substitute teacher; and  (3) are destroyed at the end of the school year.

b. Records of a law enforcement unit of the school district, provided education records maintained by the school district are not disclosed to the unit, and the law enforcement records are:

(1) maintained separately from education records;  (2) maintained solely for law enforcement purposes; and  (3) disclosed only to law enforcement officials of the same jurisdiction.

c. Records relating to an individual, including a student, who is employed by the school district which:

(1) are made and maintained in the normal course of business;  (2) relate exclusively to the individual in that individual’s capacity as an employee; and  (3) are not available for use for any other purpose. However, these provisions shall not apply to records relating to an individual in attendance at the school district who is employed as a result of his or her status as a student.

d. Records relating to an eligible student, or a student attending an institution of post-secondary education, which are:

(1) made or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized professional or paraprofessional acting in his or her professional or paraprofessional capacity or assisting in that capacity;  (2) made, maintained, or used only in connection with the provision of treatment to the student; and  (3) disclosed only to individuals providing the treatment; provided that the records can be personally reviewed by a physician or other appropriate professional of the student’s choice. For the purpose of this definition, “treatment” does not include remedial educational activities or activities that are a part of the program of instruction within the school district.

e. Records that only contain information about an individual after he or she is no longer a student at the school district and that are not directly related to the individual’s attendance as a student.

F. Eligible Student

“Eligible student” means a student who has attained eighteen (18) years of age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education.

G. Juvenile Justice System

“Juvenile justice system” includes criminal justice agencies and the judiciary when involved in juvenile justice activities.

H. Legitimate Educational Interest

“Legitimate educational interest” includes interest directly related to classroom instruction, teaching, student achievement and progress, discipline of a student, student health and welfare, and the ability to respond to a request for education data. It includes a person’s need to know in order to:

1. Perform an administrative task required in the school or employee’s contract or position description approved by the school board;

2. Perform a supervisory or instructional task directly related to the student’s education; or

3. Perform a service or benefit for the student or the student’s family such as health care, counseling, student job placement, or student financial aid.

4. Perform a task directly related to responding to a request for data.

I. Parent

“Parent” means a parent of a student and includes a natural parent, a guardian, or an individual acting as a parent of the student in the absence of a parent or guardian. The school district may presume the parent has the authority to exercise the rights provided herein, unless it has been provided with evidence that there is a state law or court order governing such matters as marriage dissolution, separation or child custody, or a legally binding instrument which provides to the contrary.

J. Personally Identifiable

“Personally identifiable” means that the data or information includes, but is not limited to:

(a) a student’s name;  (b) the name of the student’s parent or other family member;  (c) the address of the student or student’s family;  (d) a personal identifier such as the student’s social security number or student number or biometric record;  (e) other direct identifiers, such as the student’s date of birth, place of birth, and mother’s maiden name;  (f) other information that, alone or in combination, is linked or linkable to a specific student that would allow a reasonable person in the school community, who does not have personal knowledge of the relevant circumstances, to identify the student with reasonable certainty; or  (g) information requested by a person who the school district reasonably believes knows the identity of the student to whom the education record relates.

K. Record

“Record” means any information or data recorded in any way including, but not limited to, handwriting, print, computer media, video or audio tape, film, microfilm, and microfiche.

L. Responsible Authority

“Responsible authority” means the Superintendent, Renee Corneille.

M. Student

“Student” includes any individual who is or has been in attendance, enrolled, or registered at the school district and regarding whom the school district maintains education records. Student also includes applicants for enrollment or registration at the school district and individuals who receive shared time educational services from the school district.

N. School Official

“School official” includes:

(a) a person duly elected to the school board;  (b) a person employed by the school board in an administrative, supervisory, instructional, or other professional position;  (c) a person employed by the school board as a temporary substitute in a professional position for the period of his or her performance as a substitute; and  (d) a person employed by, or under contract to, the school board to perform a special task such as a secretary, a clerk, a public information officer or data practices compliance official, an attorney, or an auditor for the period of his or her performance as an employee or contractor.

O. Summary Data

“Summary data” means statistical records and reports derived from data on individuals but in which individuals are not identified and from which neither their identities nor any other characteristic that could uniquely identify the individual is ascertainable.

P. Other Terms and Phrases

All other terms and phrases shall be defined in accordance with applicable state and federal law or ordinary customary usage.

IV. GENERAL CLASSIFICATION

State law provides that all data collected, created, received, or maintained by a school district are public unless classified by state or federal law as not public or private or confidential. State law classifies all data on individuals maintained by a school district which relates to a student as private data on individuals. This data may not be disclosed to parties other than the parent or eligible student without consent, except pursuant to a valid court order, certain state statutes authorizing access, and the provisions of FERPA and the regulations promulgated thereunder.

V. STATEMENT OF RIGHTS

A. Rights of Parents and Eligible Students Parents and eligible students have the following rights under this policy:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records;

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights;

3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that such consent is not required for disclosure pursuant to this policy, state or federal law, or the regulations promulgated thereunder;

4. The right to refuse release of names, addresses, and home telephone numbers of students in grades 11 and 12 to military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions;

5. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school district to comply with the federal law and the regulations promulgated thereunder;

6. The right to be informed about rights under the federal law; and

7. The right to obtain a copy of this policy at the location set forth in Section XXI. of this policy.

B. Eligible Students All rights and protections given parents under this policy transfer to the student when he or she reaches eighteen (18) years of age or enrolls in an institution of post-secondary education. The student then becomes an “eligible student.” However, the parents of an eligible student who is also a “dependent student” are entitled to gain access to the education records of such student without first obtaining the consent of the student. In addition, parents of an eligible student may be given access to education records in connection with a health or safety emergency if the disclosure meets the conditions of any provision set forth in 34 C.F.R. § 99.31(a).

C. Disabled Students The school district shall follow 34 C.F.R. §§ 300.610-300.617 with regard to the confidentiality of information related to students with a disability.

VI. DISCLOSURE OF EDUCATION RECORDS

A. Consent Required for Disclosure

1. The school district shall obtain a signed and dated written informed consent of the parent of a student or the eligible student before disclosing personally identifiable information from the education records of the student, except as provided herein.

2. The written consent required by this subdivision must be signed and dated by the parent of the student or the eligible student giving the consent and shall include:

a. a specification of the records to be disclosed;

b. the purpose or purposes of the disclosure;

c. the party or class of parties to whom the disclosure may be made; d. the consequences of giving informed consent; and e. if appropriate, a termination date for the consent.

3. When a disclosure is made under this subdivision: 

a. if the parent or eligible student so requests, the school district shall provide him or her with a copy of the records disclosed; and

b. if the parent of a student who is not an eligible student so requests, the school district shall provide the student with a copy of the records disclosed.

4. A signed and dated written consent may include a record and signature in electronic form that:

a. identifies and authenticates a particular person as the source of the electronic consent; and

b. indicates such person’s approval of the information contained in the electronic consent.

5. If the responsible authority seeks an individual’s informed consent to the release of private data to an insurer or the authorized representative of an insurer, informed consent shall not be deemed to have been given unless the statement is:

a. in plain language;

b. dated;

c. specific in designating the particular persons or agencies the data subject is authorizing to disclose information about the data subject;

d. specific as to the nature of the information the subject is authorizing to be disclosed;

e. specific as to the persons or agencies to whom the subject is authorizing information to be disclosed;

f. specific as to the purpose or purposes for which the information may be used by any of the parties named in Clause e. above, both at the time of the disclosure and at any time in the future; and

g. specific as to its expiration date which should be within a reasonable time, not to exceed one year except in the case of authorizations given in connection with applications for:

(i) life insurance or noncancellable or guaranteed renewable health insurance and identified as such, two years after the date of the policy, or  (ii) medical assistance under Minn. Stat. Ch. 256B or Minnesota Care under Minn. Stat. Ch. 256L, which shall be ongoing during all terms of eligibility, for individualized education program health-related services provided by a school district that are subject to third party reimbursement.

6. Eligible Student Consent Whenever a student has attained eighteen (18) years of age or is attending an institution of post-secondary education, the rights accorded to and the consent required of the parent of the student shall thereafter only be accorded to and required of the eligible student, except as provided in Section V. of this policy.

B. Prior Consent for Disclosure Not Required The school district may disclose personally identifiable information from the education records of a student without the written consent of the parent of the student or the eligible student unless otherwise provided herein, if the disclosure is:

1. To other school officials, including teachers, within the school district whom the school district determines have a legitimate educational interest in such records;

2. To a contractor, consultant, volunteer, or other party to whom the school district has outsourced institutional services or functions provided that the outside party:

a. performs an institutional service or function for which the school district would otherwise use employees;

b. is under the direct control of the school district with respect to the use and maintenance of education records; and

c. will not disclose the information to any other party without the prior consent of the parent or eligible student and uses the information only for the purposes for which the disclosure was made.

3. To officials of other schools, school districts, or post-secondary educational institutions in which the student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled, as long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer. The records shall include information about disciplinary action taken as a result of any incident in which the student possessed or used a dangerous weapon, and with proper annual notice (see Section XIX.), suspension and expulsion information pursuant to section 4155 7165 of the federal No Child Left Behind Act. The records also shall include a copy of any probable cause notice or any disposition or court order under Minn. Stat. § 260B.171, unless the data are required to be destroyed under Minn. Stat. § 120A.22, Subd. 7(c) or § 121A.75. On request, the school district will provide the parent or eligible student with a copy of the education records which have been transferred and provide an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the content of those records in accordance with Section XV. of this policy;

4. To authorized representatives of the Comptroller General of the United States, the Attorney General of the United States, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Education, or the Commissioner of the State Department of Education or his or her representative, subject to the conditions relative to such disclosure provided under federal law;

5. In connection with financial aid for which a student has applied or has received, if the information is necessary for such purposes as to:

a. determine eligibility for the aid;

b. determine the amount of the aid;

c. determine conditions for the aid; or

d. enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. “Financial aid” for purposes of this provision means a payment of funds provided to an individual or a payment in kind of tangible or intangible property to the individual that is conditioned on the individual’s attendance at an educational agency or institution;

6. To state and local officials or authorities to whom such information is specifically allowed to be reported or disclosed pursuant to state statute adopted:

a. before November 19, 1974, if the allowed reporting or disclosure concerns the juvenile justice system and such system’s ability to effectively serve the student whose records are released; or

b. after November 19, 1974, if the reporting or disclosure allowed by state statute concerns the juvenile justice system and the system’s ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records are released, provided the officials and authorities to whom the records are disclosed certify in writing to the school district that the data will not be disclosed to any other party, except as provided by state law, without the prior written consent of the parent of the student. At a minimum, the school district shall disclose the following information to the juvenile justice system under this paragraph: a student’s full name, home address, telephone number, and date of birth; a student’s school schedule, attendance record, and photographs, if any; and parents’ names, home addresses, and telephone numbers. 

7. To organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of educational agencies or institutions for the purpose of developing, validating, or administering predictive tests, administering student aid programs, or improving instruction; provided that the studies are conducted in a manner which does not permit the personal identification of parents or students by individuals other than representatives of the organization who have a legitimate interest in the information, the information is destroyed when no longer needed for the purposes for which the study was conducted, and the school district enters into a written agreement with the organization that:

(a) specifies the purpose, scope, and duration of the study or studies and the information to be disclosed;  (b) requires the organization to use personally identifiable information from education records only to meet the purpose or purposes of the study as stated in the written agreement;  (c) requires the organization to conduct the study in a manner that does not permit personal identification of parents and students by anyone other than representatives of the organization with legitimate interests; and  (d) requires the organization to destroy all personally identifiable information when information is no longer needed for the purposes for which the study was conducted and specifies the time period in which the information must be destroyed. For purposes of this provision, the term, “organizations,” includes, but is not limited to, federal, state, and local agencies and independent organizations. In the event the Department of Education determines that a third party outside of the school district to whom information is disclosed violates this provision, the school district may not allow that third party access to personally identifiable information from education records for at least five (5) years;

8. To accrediting organizations in order to carry out their accrediting functions;

9. To parents of a student eighteen (18) years of age or older if the student is a dependent of the parents for income tax purposes;

10. To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena, provided, however, that the school district makes a reasonable effort to notify the parent or eligible student of the order or subpoena in advance of compliance therewith so that the parent or eligible student may seek protective action, unless the disclosure is in compliance with a federal grand jury subpoena, or any other subpoena issued for law enforcement purposes, and the court or other issuing agency has ordered that the existence or the contents of the subpoena or the information furnished in response to the subpoena not be disclosed, or the disclosure is in compliance with an ex parte court order obtained by the United States Attorney General (or designee not lower than an Assistant Attorney General) concerning investigations or prosecutions of an offense listed in 18 U.S.C. § 2332b(g)(5)(B) or an act of domestic or international terrorism as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 2331. If the school district initiates legal action against a parent or student, it may disclose to the court, without a court order or subpoena, the education records of the student that are relevant for the school district to proceed with the legal action as plaintiff. Also, if a parent or eligible student initiates a legal action against the school district, the school district may disclose to the court, without a court order or subpoena, the student’s education records that are relevant for the school district to defend itself;

11. To appropriate parties, including parents of an eligible student, in connection with an emergency if knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health, including the mental health, or safety of the student or other individuals. The decision is to be based upon information available at the time the threat occurs that indicates that there is an articulable and significant threat to the health or safety of a student or other individuals. In making a determination whether to disclose information under this section, the school district may take into account the totality of the circumstances pertaining to a threat and may disclose information from education records to any person whose knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other students. A record of this disclosure must be maintained pursuant to Section XIII.E. of this policy. In addition, an educational agency or institution may include in the education records of a student appropriate information concerning disciplinary action taken against the student for conduct that posed a significant risk to the safety or well-being of that student, other students, or other members of the school community. This information may be disclosed to teachers and school officials within the school district and/or teachers and school officials in other schools who have legitimate educational interests in the behavior of the student;

12. To the juvenile justice system if information about the behavior of a student who poses a risk of harm is reasonably necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other individuals;

13. Information the school district has designated as “directory information” pursuant to Section VII. of this policy;

14. To military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions pursuant to Section XI. of this policy;

15. To the parent of a student who is not an eligible student or to the student himself or herself;

16. To appropriate health authorities to the extent necessary to administer immunization programs and for bona fide epidemiologic investigations which the commissioner of health determines are necessary to prevent disease or disability to individuals in the public educational agency or institution in which the investigation is being conducted;

17. To volunteers who are determined to have a legitimate educational interest in the data and who are conducting activities and events sponsored by or endorsed by the educational agency or institution for students or former students;

18. To the juvenile justice system, on written request that certifies that the information will not be disclosed to any other person except as authorized by law without the written consent of the parent of the student:

a. the following information about a student must be disclosed: a student’s full name, home address, telephone number, date of birth; a student’s school schedule, daily attendance record, and photographs, if any; and any parents’ names, home addresses, and telephone numbers; b. the existence of the following information about a student, not the actual data or other information contained in the student’s education record, may be disclosed provided that a request for access must be submitted on the statutory form and it must contain an explanation of why access to the information is necessary to serve the student:

(1) use of a controlled substance, alcohol, or tobacco;  (2) assaultive or threatening conduct that could result in dismissal from school under the Pupil Fair Dismissal Act;  (3) possession or use of weapons or look-alike weapons;  (4) theft; or  (5) vandalism or other damage to property. Prior to releasing this information, the principal or chief administrative officer of a school who receives such a request must, to the extent permitted by federal law, notify the student’s parent or guardian by certified mail of the request to disclose information. If the student’s parent or guardian notifies the school official of an objection to the disclosure within ten (10) days of receiving certified notice, the school official must not disclose the information and instead must inform the requesting member of the juvenile justice system of the objection. If no objection from the parent or guardian is received within fourteen (14) days, the school official must respond to the request for information. The written requests of the juvenile justice system member(s), as well as a record of any release, must be maintained in the student’s file;

19. To the principal where the student attends and to any counselor directly supervising or reporting on the behavior or progress of the student if it is information from a disposition order received by a superintendent under Minn. Stat. § 260B.171, Subd. 3. The principal must notify the counselor immediately and must place the disposition order in the student’s permanent education record. The principal also must notify immediately any teacher or administrator who directly supervises or reports on the behavior or progress of the student whom the principal believes needs the information to work with the student in an appropriate manner, to avoid being needlessly vulnerable, or to protect other persons from needless vulnerability. The principal may also notify other school district employees, substitutes, and volunteers who are in direct contact with the student if the principal determines that these individuals need the information to work with the student in an appropriate manner, to avoid being needlessly vulnerable, or to protect other persons from needless vulnerability. Such notices from the principal must identify the student, outline the offense, and describe any conditions of probation about which the school must provide information if this information is provided in the disposition order. Disposition order information received is private educational data received for the limited purpose of serving the educational needs of the student and protecting students and staff. The information may not be further disseminated by the counselor, teacher, administrator, staff member, substitute, or volunteer except as necessary to serve the student, to protect students and staff, or as otherwise required by law, and only to the student or the student’s parent or guardian;

20. To the principal where the student attends if it is information from a peace officer’s record of children received by a superintendent under Minn. Stat. § 260B.171, Subd. 5. The principal must place the information in the student’s education record. The principal also must notify immediately any teacher, counselor, or administrator directly supervising the student whom the principal believes needs the information to work with the student in an appropriate manner, to avoid being needlessly vulnerable, or to protect other persons from needless vulnerability. The principal may also notify other district employees, substitutes, and volunteers who are in direct contact with the student if the principal determines that these individuals need the information to work with the student in an appropriate manner, to avoid being needlessly vulnerable, or to protect other persons from needless vulnerability. Such notices from the principal must identify the student and describe the alleged offense if this information is provided in the peace officer’s notice. Peace officer’s record information received is private educational data received for the limited purpose of serving the educational needs of the student and protecting students and staff. The information must not be further disseminated by the counselor, teacher administrator, staff member, substitute, or volunteer except to communicate with the student or the student’s parent or guardian as necessary to serve the student, to protect students and staff, or as otherwise required by law. The principal must delete the peace officer’s record from the student’s education record, destroy the data, and make reasonable efforts to notify any teacher, counselor, staff member, administrator, substitute, or volunteer who received information from the peace officer’s record if the county attorney determines not to proceed with a petition or directs the student into a diversion or mediation program or if a juvenile court makes a decision on a petition and the county attorney or juvenile court notifies the superintendent of such action; or 

21. To the Secretary of Agriculture, or authorized representative from the Food and Nutrition Service or contractors acting on behalf of the Food and Nutrition Service, for the purposes of conducting program monitoring, evaluations, and performance measurements of state and local educational and other agencies and institutions receiving funding or providing benefits of one or more programs authorized under the National School Lunch Act or the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 for which the results will be reported in an aggregate form that does not identify any individual, on the conditions that:

(a) any data collected shall be protected in a manner that will not permit the personal identification of students and their parents by other than the authorized representatives of the Secretary; and  (b) any personally identifiable data shall be destroyed when the data are no longer needed for program monitoring, evaluations, and performance measurements.

C. Nonpublic School Students

The school district may disclose personally identifiable information from the education records of a nonpublic school student, other than a student who receives shared time educational services, without the written consent of the parent of the student or the eligible student unless otherwise provided herein, if the disclosure is:

1. Pursuant to a valid court order;

2. Pursuant to a statute specifically authorizing access to the private data; or

3. To appropriate health authorities to the extent necessary to administer immunization programs and for bona fide epidemiological investigations which the commissioner of health determines are necessary to prevent disease or disability to individuals in the public educational agency or institution in which the investigation is being conducted.

VII. RELEASE OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION

A. Classification Directory

Classification directory information is public except as provided herein.

B. Former Students

Unless a former student validly opted out of the release of directory information while the student was in attendance and has not rescinded the opt out request at any time, the school district may disclose directory information from the education records generated by it regarding the former student without meeting the requirements of Paragraph C. of this section. In addition, under an explicit exclusion from the definition of an “education record,” the school district may release records that only contain information about an individual obtained after he or she is no longer a student at the school district and that are not directly related to the individual’s attendance as a student (e.g., a student’s activities as an alumnus of the school district).

C. Present Students and Parents

The school district may disclose directory information from the education records of a student and information regarding parents without prior written consent of the parent of the student or eligible student, except as provided herein. Prior to such disclosure the school district shall:

1. Annually give public notice by any means that are reasonably likely to inform the parents and eligible students of:

a. the types of personally identifiable information regarding students and/or parents that the school district has designated as directory information;

b. the parent’s or eligible student’s right to refuse to let the school district designate any or all of those types of information about the student and/or the parent as directory information; and

c. the period of time in which a parent or eligible student has to notify the school district in writing that he or she does not want any or all of those types of information about the student and/or the parent designated as directory information.

2. Allow a reasonable period of time after such notice has been given for a parent or eligible student to inform the school district in writing that any or all of the information so designated should not be disclosed without the parent’s or eligible student’s prior written consent, except as provided in Section VI. of this policy.

3. A parent or eligible student may not opt out of the directory information disclosures to:

a. prevent the school district from disclosing or requiring the student to disclose the student’s name, ID, or school district e-mail address in a class in which the student is enrolled; or

b. prevent the school district from requiring a student to wear, to display publicly, or to disclose a student ID card or badge that exhibits information that may be designated as directory information and that has been properly designated by the school district as directory information.

4. The school district shall not disclose or confirm directory information without meeting the written consent requirements contained in Section VI.A. of this policy if a student’s social security number or other nondirectory information is used alone or in combination with other data elements to identify or help identify the student or the student’s records.

D. Procedure for Obtaining Nondisclosure of Directory Information

The parent’s or eligible student’s written notice shall be directed to the responsible authority and shall include the following:

1. Name of the student and/or parent, as appropriate;

2. Home address;

3. School presently attended by student;

4. Parent’s legal relationship to student, if applicable; and

5. Specific categories of directory information to be made not public without the parent’s or eligible student’s prior written consent, which shall only be applicable for that school year.

E. Duration

The designation of any information as directory information about a student or parents will remain in effect for the remainder of the school year unless the parent or eligible student provides the written notifications provided herein.

VIII. DISCLOSURE OF PRIVATE RECORDS

A. Private Records

For the purposes herein, education records are records which are classified as private data on individuals by state law and which are accessible only to the student who is the subject of the data and the student’s parent if the student is not an eligible student. The school district may not disclose private records or their contents except as summary data, or except as provided in Section VI. of this policy, without the prior written consent of the parent or the eligible student. The school district will use reasonable methods to identify and authenticate the identity of parents, students, school officials, and any other party to whom personally identifiable information from education records is disclosed.

B. Private Records Not Accessible to Parent

In certain cases state law intends, and clearly provides, that certain information contained in the education records of the school district pertaining to a student be accessible to the student alone, and to the parent only under special circumstances, if at all.

1. The responsible authority may deny access to private data by a parent when a minor student who is the subject of that data requests that the responsible authority deny such access. The minor student’s request must be submitted in writing setting forth the reasons for denying access to the parent and must be signed by the minor. Upon receipt of such request the responsible authority shall determine if honoring the request to deny the parent access would be in the best interest of the minor data subject. In making this determination the responsible authority shall consider the following factors:

a. whether the minor is of sufficient age and maturity to be able to explain the reasons for and understand the consequences of the request to deny access;

b. whether the personal situation of the minor is such that denying parental access may protect the minor data subject from physical or emotional harm;

c. whether there are grounds for believing that the minor data subject’s reasons for precluding parental access are reasonably accurate;

d. whether the data in question is of such a nature that disclosure of it to the parent may lead to physical or emotional harm to the minor data subject; and

e. whether the data concerns medical, dental or other health services provided pursuant to Minn. Stat. §§ 144.341-144.347, in which case the data may be released only if the failure to inform the parent would seriously jeopardize the health of the minor.

C. Private Records Not Accessible to Student

Students shall not be entitled to access to private data concerning financial records and statements of the student’s parent or any information contained therein.

IX. DISCLOSURE OF CONFIDENTIAL RECORDS

A. Confidential Records

Confidential records are those records and data contained therein which are made not public by state or federal law, and which are inaccessible to the student and the student’s parents or to an eligible student.

B. Reports Under the Maltreatment of Minors

Reporting Act Pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 626.556, reports pertaining to a neglected and/or physically and/or sexually abused child shall be accessible only to the appropriate welfare and law enforcement agencies. In respect to other parties, such data shall be confidential and will not be made available to the parent or the subject individual by the school district. The subject individual, however, may obtain a copy of the report from either the local welfare agency, county sheriff, or the local police department subject to the provisions of Minn. Stat. § 626.556, Subd. 11.

C. Investigative Data

Data collected by the school district as part of an active investigation undertaken for the purpose of the commencement or defense of pending civil legal action, or which are retained in anticipation of a pending civil legal action are classified as protected nonpublic data in the case of data not on individuals, and confidential data in the case of data on individuals.

1. The school district may make any data classified as protected non-public or confidential pursuant to this subdivision accessible to any person, agency, or the public if the school district determines that such access will aid the law enforcement process, promote public health or safety, or dispel widespread rumor or unrest.

2. A complainant has access to a statement he or she provided to the school district.

3. Parents or eligible students may have access to investigative data of which the student is the subject, but only to the extent the data is not inextricably intertwined with data about other school district students, school district employees, and/or attorney data as defined in Minn. Stat. § 13.393.

4. Once a civil investigation becomes inactive, civil investigative data becomes public unless the release of the data would jeopardize another pending civil legal action, except for those portions of such data that are classified as not public data under state or federal law. Any civil investigative data presented as evidence in court or made part of a court record shall be public. For purposes of this provision, a civil investigation becomes inactive upon the occurrence of any of the following events:

a. a decision by the school district, or by the chief attorney for the school district, not to pursue the civil legal action. However, such investigation may subsequently become active if the school district or its attorney decides to renew the civil legal action;

b. the expiration of the time to file a complaint under the statute of limitations or agreement applicable to the civil legal action; or

c. the exhaustion or expiration of rights of appeal by either party to the civil legal action. 

5. A “pending civil legal action” for purposes of this subdivision is defined as including, but not limited to, judicial, administrative, or arbitration proceedings.

D. Chemical Abuse Records

To the extent the school district maintains records of the identity, diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment of any student which are maintained in connection with the performance of any drug abuse prevention function conducted, regulated, or directly or indirectly assisted by any department or agency of the United States, such records are classified as confidential and shall be disclosed only for the purposes and under the circumstances expressly authorized by law.

X. DISCLOSURE OF SCHOOL RECORDS PRIOR TO EXCLUSION OR EXPULSION HEARING

At a reasonable time prior to any exclusion or expulsion hearing, the student and the student’s parent or guardian or representative shall be given access to all school district records pertaining to the student, including any tests or reports upon which the action proposed by the school district may be based, pursuant to the Minnesota Pupil Fair Dismissal Act, Minn. Stat. § 121A.40, et seq.

XI. DISCLOSURE OF DATA TO MILITARY RECRUITING OFFICERS AND POST-SECONDARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS

A. The school district will release the names, addresses, and home telephone numbers of students in grades 11 and 12 to military recruiting officers and postsecondary educational institutions within sixty (60) days after the date of the request unless a parent or eligible student has refused in writing to release this data pursuant to Paragraph C. below.

B. Data released to military recruiting officers under this provision:

1. may be used only for the purpose of providing information to students about military service, state and federal veterans’ education benefits, and other career and educational opportunities provided by the military; and

2. cannot be further disseminated to any other person except personnel of the recruiting services of the armed forces.

C. A parent or eligible student has the right to refuse the release of the name, address, or home telephone number to military recruiting officers and postsecondary educational institutions. To refuse the release of the above information to military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions, a parent or eligible student must notify the responsible authority, the Senior High School Principal in writing by September 30th each year. The written request must include the following information: 

1. Name of student and parent, as appropriate;

2. Home address;

3. Student’s grade level;

4. School presently attended by student;

5. Parent’s legal relationship to student, if applicable;

6. Specific category or categories of information which are not to be released to military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions; and

7. Specific category or categories of information which are not to be released to the public, including military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions.

D. Annually, the school district will provide public notice by any means that are reasonably likely to inform the parents and eligible students of their rights to refuse to release the names, addresses, and home phone numbers of students in grades 11 and 12 without prior consent.

E. A parent or eligible student’s refusal to release the above information to military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions does not affect the school district’s release of directory information to the rest of the public, which includes military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions. In order to make any directory information about a student private, the procedures contained in Section VII. of this policy also must be followed. Accordingly, to the extent the school district has designated the name, address, phone number, and grade level of students as directory information, absent a request from a parent or eligible student not to release such data, this information will be public data and accessible to members of the public, including military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions.

XII. LIMITS ON REDISCLOSURE

A. Redisclosure

Consistent with the requirements herein, the school district may only disclose personally identifiable information from the education records of a student on the condition that the party to whom the information is to be disclosed will not disclose the information to any other party without the prior written consent of the parent of the student or the eligible student, except that the officers, employees, and agents of any party receiving personally identifiable information under this section may use the information, but only for the purposes for which the disclosure was made. 515-22

B. Redisclosure Not Prohibited

1. Subdivision A. of this section does not prevent the school district from disclosing personally identifiable information under Section VI. of this policy with the understanding that the party receiving the information may make further disclosures of the information on behalf of the school district provided:

a. The disclosures meet the requirements of Section VI. of this policy; and

b. The school district has complied with the record-keeping requirements of Section XIII. of this policy.

2. Subdivision A. of this section does not apply to disclosures made pursuant to court orders or lawfully issued subpoenas or litigation, to disclosures of directory information, to disclosures to a parent or student or to parents of dependent students, or to disclosures concerning sex offenders and other individuals required to register under 42 U.S.C. § 14071. However, the school district must provide the notification required in Section XII.D. of this policy if a redisclosure is made based upon a court order or lawfully issued subpoena.

C. Classification of Disclosed Data

The information disclosed shall retain the same classification in the hands of the party receiving it as it had in the hands of the school district.

D. Notification

The school district shall inform the party to whom a disclosure is made of the requirements set forth in this section, except for disclosures made pursuant to court orders or lawfully issued subpoenas, disclosure of directory information under Section VII. of this policy, disclosures to a parent or student, or disclosures to parents of a dependent student. In the event that the Family Policy Compliance Office determines that a state or local educational authority, a federal agency headed by an official listed in 34 C.F.R. § 99.31(a)(3), or an authorized representative of a state or local educational authority or a federal agency headed by an official listed in § 99.31(a)(3), or a third party outside of the school district improperly rediscloses personally identifiable information from education records or fails to provide notification required under this section of this policy, the school district may not allow that third party access to personally identifiable information from education records for at least five (5) years.

XIII. RESPONSIBLE AUTHORITY; RECORD SECURITY; AND RECORD KEEPING

A. Responsible Authority

The responsible authority shall be responsible for the maintenance and security of student records.

B. Record Security

The principal of each school subject to the supervision and control of the responsible authority shall be the records manager of the school, and shall have the duty of maintaining and securing the privacy and/or confidentiality of student records.

C. Plan for Securing Student Records

The building principal shall submit to the responsible authority a written plan for securing students records by September 1 of each school year. The written plan shall contain the following information:

1. A description of records maintained;

2. Titles and addresses of person(s) responsible for the security of student records;

3. Location of student records, by category, in the buildings;

4. Means of securing student records; and

5. Procedures for access and disclosure.

D. Review of Written Plan for Securing Student Records

The responsible authority shall review the plans submitted pursuant to Paragraph C. of this section for compliance with the law, this policy and the various administrative policies of the school district. The responsible authority shall then promulgate a chart incorporating the provisions of Paragraph C. which shall be attached to and become a part of this policy.

E. Record Keeping

1. The principal shall, for each request for and each disclosure of personally identifiable information from the education records of a student, maintain a record with the education records of the student which indicates:

a. the parties who have requested or received personally identifiable information from the education records of the student;

b. the legitimate interests these parties had in requesting or obtaining the information; and 

c. the names of the state and local educational authorities and federal officials and agencies listed in Section VI.B.4. of this policy that may make further disclosures of personally identifiable information from the student’s education records without consent.

2. In the event the school district discloses personally identifiable information from an education record of a student pursuant to Section XII.B. of this policy, the record of disclosure required under this section shall also include:

a. the names of the additional parties to which the receiving party may disclose the information on behalf of the school district;

b. the legitimate interests under Section VI. of this policy which each of the additional parties has in requesting or obtaining the information; and

c. a copy of the record of further disclosures maintained by a state or local educational authority or federal official or agency listed in Section VI.B.4. of this policy in accordance with 34 C.F.R. § 99.32 and to whom the school district disclosed information from an education record. The school district shall request a copy of the record of further disclosures from a state or local educational authority or federal official or agency to whom education records were disclosed upon a request from a parent or eligible student to review the record of requests for disclosure.

3. Section XIII.E.1. does not apply to requests by or disclosure to a parent of a student or an eligible student, disclosures pursuant to the written consent of a parent of a student or an eligible student, requests by or disclosures to other school officials under Section VI.B.1. of this policy, to requests for disclosures of directory information under Section VII. of this policy, or to a party seeking or receiving the records as directed by a federal grand jury or other law enforcement subpoena and the issuing court or agency has ordered that the existence or the contents of the subpoena or the information provided in response to the subpoena not be disclosed or as directed by an ex parte court order obtained by the United States Attorney General (or designee not lower than an Assistant Attorney General) concerning investigations or prosecutions of an offense listed in 18. U.S.C. § 2332b(g)(5)(B) or an act of domestic or international terrorism.

4. The record of requests of disclosures may be inspected by:

a. the parent of the student or the eligible student;

b. the school official or his or her assistants who are responsible for the custody of the records; and 

c. the parties authorized by law to audit the record-keeping procedures of the school district.

5. The school district shall record the following information when it discloses personally identifiable information from education records under the health or safety emergency exception:

a. the articulable and significant threat to the health or safety of a student or other individual that formed the basis for the disclosure; and

b. the parties to whom the school district disclosed the information.

6. The record of requests and disclosures shall be maintained with the education records of the student as long as the school district maintains the student’s education records.

XIV. RIGHT TO INSPECT AND REVIEW EDUCATION RECORDS

A. Parent of a Student, an Eligible Student or the Parent of an Eligible Student Who is Also a Dependent Student

The school district shall permit the parent of a student, an eligible student, or the parent of an eligible student who is also a dependent student who is or has been in attendance in the school district to inspect or review the education records of the student, except those records which are made confidential by state or federal law or as otherwise provided in Section VIII. of this policy.

B. Response to Request for Access

The school district shall respond to any request pursuant to Subdivision A. of this section immediately, if possible, or within ten (10) days of the date of the request, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays.

C. Right to Inspect and Review

The right to inspect and review education records under Subdivision A. of this section includes:

1. The right to a response from the school district to reasonable requests for explanations and interpretations of records; and

2. If circumstances effectively prevent the parent or eligible student from exercising the right to inspect and review the education records, the school district shall provide the parent or eligible student with a copy of the records requested or make other arrangements for the parent or eligible student to inspect and review the requested records. 

3. Nothing in this policy shall be construed as limiting the frequency of inspection of the education records of a student with a disability by the student’s parent or guardian or by the student upon the student reaching the age of majority.

D. Form of Request

Parents or eligible students shall submit to the school district a written request to inspect education records which identify as precisely as possible the record or records he or she wishes to inspect.

E. Collection of Student Records

If a student’s education records are maintained in more than one location, the responsible authority may collect copies of the records or the records themselves from the various locations so they may be inspected at one site. However, if the parent or eligible student wishes to inspect these records where they are maintained, the school district shall attempt to accommodate those wishes. The parent or eligible student shall be notified of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

F. Records Containing Information on More Than One Student

If the education records of a student contain information on more than one student, the parent or eligible student may inspect and review or be informed of only the specific information which pertains to that student.

G. Authority to Inspect or Review

The school district may presume that either parent of the student has authority to inspect or review the education records of a student unless the school district has been provided with evidence that there is a legally binding instrument or a state law or court order governing such matters as marriage dissolution, separation, or custody which provides to the contrary.

H. Fees for Copies of Records

1. The school district shall charge a reasonable fee for providing photocopies or printed copies of records unless printing a copy is the only method to provide for the inspection of data. In determining the amount of the reasonable fee, the school district shall consider the following:

a. the cost of materials, including paper, used to provide the copies;

b. the cost of the labor required to prepare the copies;

c. any schedule of standard copying charges established by the school district in its normal course of operations;

d. any special costs necessary to produce such copies from machine based record-keeping systems, including but not limited to computers and microfilm systems; and e. mailing costs.

2. If 100 or fewer pages of black and white, letter or legal size paper copies are requested, actual costs shall not be used, and, instead, the charge shall be no more than 25 cents for each page copied.

3. The cost of providing copies shall be borne by the parent or eligible student.

4. The responsible authority, however, may not impose a fee for a copy of an education record made for a parent or eligible student if doing so would effectively prevent or, in the case of a student with a disability, impair the parent or eligible student from exercising their right to inspect or review the student’s education records.

XV. REQUEST TO AMEND RECORDS; PROCEDURES TO CHALLENGE DATA

A. Request to Amend Education Records

The parent of a student or an eligible student who believes that information contained in the education records of the student is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the privacy rights of the student may request that the school district amend those records.

1. The request shall be in writing, shall identify the item the requestor believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student, shall state the reason for this belief, and shall specify the correction the requestor wishes the school district to make. The request shall be signed and dated by the requestor.

2. The school district shall decide whether to amend the education records of the student in accordance with the request within thirty (30) days after receiving the request.

3. If the school district decides to refuse to amend the education records of the student in accordance with the request, it shall inform the parent of the student or the eligible student of the refusal and advise the parent or eligible student of the right to a hearing under Subdivision B. of this section.

B. Right to a Hearing  

If the school district refuses to amend the education records of a student, the school district, on request, shall provide an opportunity for a hearing in order to challenge the content of the student’s education records to ensure that information in the education records of the student is not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student. A hearing shall be conducted in accordance with Subdivision C. of this section.

1. If, as a result of the hearing, the school district decides that the information is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student, it shall amend the education records of the student accordingly and so inform the parent of the student or the eligible student in writing.

2. If, as a result of the hearing, the school district decides that the information is not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student, it shall inform the parent or eligible student of the right to place a statement in the record commenting on the contested information in the record or stating why he or she disagrees with the decision of the school district, or both.

3. Any statement placed in the education records of the student under Subdivision B. of this section shall:

a. be maintained by the school district as part of the education records of the student so long as the record or contested portion thereof is maintained by the school district; and

b. if the education records of the student or the contested portion thereof is disclosed by the school district to any party, the explanation shall also be disclosed to that party.

C. Conduct of Hearing

1. The hearing shall be held within a reasonable period of time after the school district has received the request, and the parent of the student or the eligible student shall be given notice of the date, place, and time reasonably in advance of the hearing.

2. The hearing may be conducted by any individual, including an official of the school district who does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing. The school board attorney shall be in attendance to present the school board’s position and advise the designated hearing officer on legal and evidentiary matters.

3. The parent of the student or eligible student shall be afforded a full and fair opportunity for hearing to present evidence relative to the issues raised under Subdivisions A. and B. of this section and may be assisted or represented by individuals of his or her choice at his or her own expense, including an attorney.

4. The school district shall make a decision in writing within a reasonable period of time after the conclusion of the hearing. The decision shall be based solely on evidence presented at the hearing and shall include a summary of evidence and reasons for the decision.

D. Appeal

The final decision of the designated hearing officer may be appealed in accordance with the applicable provisions of Minn. Stat. Ch. 14 relating to contested cases.

XVI. PROBLEMS ACCESSING DATA

A. The data practices compliance official is the designated employee to whom persons may direct questions or concerns regarding problems in obtaining access to data or other data practices problems.

B. Data practices compliance official means Superintendent Renee Corneille.

C. Any request by an individual with a disability for reasonable modifications of the school district’s policies or procedures for purposes of accessing records shall be made to the data practices compliance official.

XVII. COMPLAINTS FOR NONCOMPLIANCE WITH FERPA

A. Where to File Complaints

Complaints regarding alleged violations of rights accorded parents and eligible students by FERPA, and the rules promulgated thereunder, shall be submitted in writing to the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue S.W., Washington, D.C. 20202.

B. Content of Complaint

A complaint filed pursuant to this section must contain specific allegations of fact giving reasonable cause to believe that a violation of FERPA and the rules promulgated thereunder has occurred.

XVIII. WAIVER

A parent or eligible student may waive any of his or her rights provided herein pursuant to FERPA. A waiver shall not be valid unless in writing and signed by the parent or eligible student. The school district may not require such a waiver.

XIX. ANNUAL NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS  

A. Contents of Notice

The school district shall give parents of students currently in attendance and eligible students currently in attendance annual notice by such means as are reasonably likely to inform the parents and eligible students of the following:

1. That the parent or eligible student has a right to inspect and review the student’s education records and the procedure for inspecting and reviewing education records;

2. That the parent or eligible student has a right to seek amendment of the student’s education records to ensure that those records are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights and the procedure for requesting amendment of records;

3. That the parent or eligible student has a right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that federal and state law and the regulations promulgated thereunder authorize disclosure without consent;

4. That the parent or eligible student has a right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education regarding an alleged failure by the school district to comply with the requirements of FERPA and the rules promulgated thereunder;

5. The criteria for determining who constitutes a school official and what constitutes a legitimate educational interest for purposes of disclosing education records to other school officials whom the school district has determined to have legitimate educational interests; and

6. That the school district forwards education records on request to a school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll or is already enrolled as long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the student’s enrollment or transfer and that such records may include suspension and expulsion records pursuant to the federal No Child Left Behind Act and, if applicable, a student’s history of violent behavior.

B. Notification to Parents of Students Having a Primary Home Language Other Than English

The school district shall provide for the need to effectively notify parents of students identified as having a primary or home language other than English.

C. Notification to Parents or Eligible Students Who are Disabled

The school district shall provide for the need to effectively notify parents or eligible students identified as disabled.

XX. DESTRUCTION AND RETENTION OF RECORDS

Destruction and retention of records by the school district shall be controlled by state and federal law.

XXI. COPIES OF POLICY

Copies of this policy may be obtained by parents and eligible students at the office of the superintendent.

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. Ch. 13 (Minnesota Government Data Practices Act)

Minn. Stat. Ch. 14 (Administrative Procedures Act)

Minn. Stat. § 120A.22 (Compulsory Instruction)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.40-121A.56 (The Pupil Fair Dismissal Act)

Minn. Stat. § 121A.75 (Sharing Disposition Order and Peace Officer Records)

Minn. Stat. § 144.341-144.347 (Consent of Minors for Health Services)

Minn. Stat. § 260B.171, Subds. 3 and 5 (Disposition Order and Peace Officer Records of Children)

Minn. Stat. § 363A.42 (Public Records; Accessibility)

Minn. Stat. § 626.556 (Reporting of Maltreatment of Minors)

Minn. Rules Parts 1205.0100-1205.2000 (Data Practices)

10 U.S.C. § 503(b) and (c) (Enlistments: Recruiting Campaigns; Compilation of Directory Information)

18 U.S.C. § 2331 (Definitions)

18 U.S.C. § 2332b (Acts of Terrorism Transcending National Boundaries)

20 U.S.C. § 1232g et seq. (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)

20 U.S.C. § 6301 et seq. (No Child Left Behind)

20 U.S.C. § 7908 (Armed Forces Recruiting Information)

26 U.S.C. §§ 151 and 152 (Internal Revenue Code)

34 C.F.R. §§ 99.1-99.67 (Family Educational Rights and Privacy)

34 C.F.R. § 300.610-300.627 (Confidentiality of Information)

42 C.F.R. § 2.1 et seq. (Confidentiality of Drug Abuse Patient Records)

Gonzaga University v. Doe, 536 U.S. 273, 122 S.Ct. 2268, 153 L.Ed. 2d 309 (2002)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 414 (Mandated Reporting of Child Neglect or Physical or Sexual Abuse)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 417 (Chemical Use and Abuse)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 506 (Student Discipline)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 519 (Interviews of Students by Outside Agencies)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 520 (Student Surveys)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 711 (Video Recording on School Buses)

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 906 (Community Notification of Predatory Offenders)

MSBA Service Manual, Chapter 13, School Law Bulletin “I” (School 515-32 Records – Privacy – Access to Data)

Policy 515

Public Notice

Independent School District No. 282 gives notice to parents of students currently in attendance in the District, and eligible students currently in attendance in the District, of their rights regarding pupil records.

1.    Parents and eligible students are hereby informed that they have the following rights:

     a. That a parent or eligible student has a right to inspect and review the student's education records. A parent or eligible student should submit to the school district a written request to inspect education records which identify as precisely as possible the record or records he or she wishes to inspect. The parent or eligible student will be notified of the time and place where the records may be inspected;

b.    That the parent or eligible student has a right to seek amendment of the student's education records to ensure that those records are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights. A parent or eligible student may ask the school district to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. The request shall be in writing, identify the item the parent or eligible student believes to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the privacy or other rights of the student, shall state the reason for this belief, and shall specify the correction the parent or eligible student wishes the school district to make. The request shall be signed by the parent or eligible student. If the school district decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise him or her of the right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing;

c.    That the parent or eligible student has a right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that federal and state law and the regulations promulgated thereunder authorize disclosures without consent;

d.    That the school district may disclose education records to other school officials within the school district if the school district has determined they have legitimate educational interests. For purposes of such disclosure, a "school official" is a person employed by the school district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel) or other employee; a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the school district has consulted to perform a specific task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, therapist, public information officer, or data practices compliance official); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or any individual assisting a school official in the performance of his or her tasks. A school official has a "legitimate educational interest" if the individual needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility and includes, but is not limited to, an interest directly related to classroom instruction, teaching, student achievement and progress, discipline of a student, and student health and welfare and the ability to respond to a request for educational data; 

e.    That the school district forwards education records on request to a school or post-secondary educational institution in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled, as long as the disclosure is for purposes related to the student's enrollment, including information about disciplinary action taken as a result of any incident in which the student possessed or used a dangerous weapon, suspension and expulsion information pursuant to section 7165 of the federal No Child Left Behind Act and data regarding a student's history of violent behavior, and any disposition order which adjudicates the student as delinquent for committing an illegal act on school district property and certain other illegal acts;

f.    That the parent or eligible student has a right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education regarding an alleged failure by the school district to comply with the requirements of 20 U.S.C. § 1232g and the rules promulgated thereunder. The name and address of the office that administers the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act is: 

g.    That the parent or eligible student has a right to obtain a copy of the school district's policy regarding the protection and privacy of pupil records; and

h.    That copies of the school district's policy regarding the protection and privacy of school records are located at School District website.

2.    Independent School District No. 282 has adopted a school board policy in order to comply with state and federal laws regarding education records. The policy does the following:

a.    It classifies records as public, private, or confidential.

b.    It establishes procedures and regulations to permit parents or students to inspect and review a student's education records. These procedures include the method of determining fees for copies, a listing of the locations of these education records, and the identity of the individuals in charge of the records.

c.    It establishes procedures and regulations to allow parents or students to request the amendment of a student's education records to ensure that the records are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student's privacy or other rights.

d.    It establishes procedures and regulations for access to and disclosure of education records.

e.    It establishes procedures and regulations for safeguarding the privacy of education records and for obtaining prior written consent of the parent or student when required prior to .disclosure.

3.    Copies of the school board policy and accompanying procedures and regulations are available to parents and students upon written request to the Superintendent.

4.    Pursuant to applicable Jaw, Independent School District No. 282 gives notice to parents of students currently in attendance in the school district, and eligible students currently in attendance in the school district, of their rights regarding "directory information."

"Directory information" includes the following information relating to a student: the student's name; address; telephone number; electronic mail address; photograph; date and place of birth; major field of study; dates of attendance; grade level; enrollment status; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; weight and height of members of athletic teams; degrees, honors and awards received; the most recent educational agency or institution attended by the student; and other similar information.

"Directory information" also includes the name, address, and telephone number of the student's parent(s). "Directory information" does not include a student's social security number or a student's identification number ("ID") if the ID may be used to access education records without use of one or more factors that authenticate the student's identity such as a personal identification number, password, or other factor known or possessed only by the authorized user. It also does not include identifying information on a student's religion, race, color, social position, or nationality. 

a. THE INFORMATION LISTED ABOVE SHALL BE PUBLIC

INFORMATION WHICH THE SCHOOL DISTRICT MAY DISCLOSE FROM THE EDUCATION RECORDS OF A STUDENT OR INFORMATION REGARDING A PARENT.

b.    SHOULD THE PARENT OF A STUDENT OR THE STUDENT SO DESIRE, ANY OR ALL OF THE LISTED INFORMATION WILL NOT BE DISCLOSED WITHOUT THE PARENT'S OR ELIGIBLE STUDENT'S PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT EXCEPT TO SCHOOL OFFICIALS AS PROVIDED UNDER FEDERAL LAW.

c.    IN ORDER TO MAKE ANY OR ALL OF THE DIRECTORY INFORMATION LISTED ABOVE "PRIVATE" (I.E., SUBJECT TO CONSENT PRIOR TO DISCLOSURE), THE PARENT OR ELIGIBLE STUDENT MUST MAKE A WRITTEN REQUEST TO THE BUILDING PRINCIPAL WITHIN THIRTY (30) DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF THE LAST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. THIS WRITTEN REQUEST MUST INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

(1)    NAME OF STUDENT AND PARENT, AS APPROPRIATE;
(2)    HOME ADDRESS;
(3)    SCHOOL PRESENTLY ATTENDED BY STUDENT;
(4)    PARENT'S LEGAL RELATIONSHIP TO STUDENT, IF APPLICABLE;
(5)    SPECIFIC CATEGORY OR CATEGORIES OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION WHICH IS NOT TO BE MADE PUBLIC WITHOUT THE PARENT'S OR ELIGIBLE STUDENT'S PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT.

5.  Pursuant to applicable law, Independent School District No. 282 hereby gives notice to parents of students and eligible students in grades 11 and 12 of their rights regarding release of information to military recruiting officers and post-­secondary educational institutions. The school district must release the names, addresses, and home telephone numbers of students in grades 11 and 12 to military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions within sixty ( 60) days after the date of the request. Data released to military recruiting officers under this provision may be used only for the purpose of providing information to students about military service, state and federal veterans' education benefits, and other career and educational opportunities provided by the military and cannot be further disseminated to any other person except personnel of the recruiting services of the armed forces.

SHOULD THE PARENT OF A STUDENT OR THE ELIGIBLE STUDENT SO 
DESIRE, ANY OR ALL OF THE LISTED INFORMATION WILL NOT BE DISCLOSED TO MILITARY RECRUITING OFFICERS AND POST-SECONDARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT. 

IN ORDER TO REFUSE THE RELEASE OF THIS INFORMATION WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT, THE PARENT OR ELIGIBLE STUDENT MUST MAKE A WRITTEN REQUEST TO THE RESPONSIBLE AUTHORITY, BUILDING PRINCIPAL, OCTOBER 1 EACH YEAR. THIS WRITTEN REQUEST MUST INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION: 

(1)   NAME OF STUDENT AND PARENT, AS APPROPRIATE

(2)  HOME ADDRESS;

(3)  STUDENT'S GRADE LEVEL:

(4) SCHOOL PRESENTLY ATTENDED BY STUDENT;

(5)  PARENT'S LEGAL RELATIONSHIP TO STUDENT, IF APPLICABLE;

(6)  SPECIFIC CATEGORY OR CATEGORIES OF INFORMATION WHICH ARE NOT TO BE RELEASED TO MILITARY RECRUITING OFFICERS AND POST-SECONDARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT;

(7)  SPECIFIC CATEGORY OR CATEGORIES OF DIRECTORY INFORMATION WHICH ARE NOT TO BE RELEASED TO THE PUBLIC, INCLUDING MILITARY RECRUITING OFFICERS AND POST-SECONDARY EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS.

Notice: Refusal to release the above information to military recruiting officers and post­secondary educational institutions alone does not affect the school district's release of directory information to the public, including military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions. In order to make any directory information about a student private, the procedures contained in the Directory Information section of this notice also must be followed. If you do not want your child's or eligible student's directory information released to military recruiting officers or post-secondary educational institutions, you also must notify the school district that you do not want this directory information released to any member of the public, including military recruiting officers and post-secondary educational institutions. 

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 282

ST. ANTHONY, MINNESOTA

Policy515Form.pdf

Adopted: June 5, 2006 Revised: Dec. 17, 2013; June 1, 2021

516 STUDENT MEDICATION

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to set forth the provisions that must be followed when administering nonemergency prescription and over the counter medication to students at school.

II. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The school district acknowledges that some students may require prescribed drugs or medication during the school day. The school district’s licensed school nurse, trained health clerk, principal, or teacher will administer prescribed medications in accordance with law and school district procedures.

III. REQUIREMENTS

A. Authorization

All medications (prescription and over-the-counter) to be administered at school shall have the Authorization for Administration of Medication at School form completed by the health professional and parent. Nurses may accept a verbal order from a physician to be followed with written authorization. Orders will be good for the school year (including the following summer sessions), but will need to be renewed at the start of a new school year. Orders will also be renewed when dosage changes occur.

B. Prescription Medications

Prescription medications must be in an appropriately labeled pharmacy container. The dosage listed on the pharmacy label must agree with the dosage requested by parent and prescribing health professional. When dosage changes occur, the labels will be marked with the new dosage until the next prescription refill, when a new bottle will be required. In order to provide continuity of administration for prescription medications, a nurse may allow a family two days to provide the required written authorization if a verbal or written parent request has been received.

C. Over-the-Counter Medications

Over-the-counter medications shall be in their original containers and labeled with the student’s name. Health professional and parent authorization must be received before administration of over-the-counter medication.

D. Student Self-Carry/Administration of Prescription Medication

Under some circumstances, students may be authorized to carry and self-administer medications. Examples may include, but are not limited to, inhalers and epi-pens. A student’s parent/guardian and physician will complete an Authorization to Self-Administer Medication form. The nurse will assess the student’s knowledge and skills pertaining to his/her treatment. Self-administration will be approved if the student is considered knowledgeable and able to self-administer medication safely.

E. Student Self-Carry/Administration of Non-Prescription Pain Relief Medication (E.g., Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen)

A secondary student (grades 7-12) may possess and use nonprescription pain relief in a manner consistent with the labeling, if the school district has received written authorization from the student’s parent or guardian permitting the student to self-administer the medication. The parent or guardian must submit the parent portion of the Authorization to Self-Administer Medication form for the student to self-administer the medication each school year. The school district may revoke a student’s privilege to possess and use nonprescription pain relievers if the school district determines that the student is abusing the privilege. This provision does not apply to the possession or use of any drug or product containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine as its sole active ingredient or as one of its active ingredients. Students are not to possess this type of medication. These medications should be processed using the same procedures as prescription medications.

F. Storage

All medications shall be stored in a locked cabinet, with the exception of refrigerated medications and those carried by students with special permission. Controlled substance medications will be counted (or liquid level noted) upon receipt in the health office and noted on the Medication Administration form.

G. Record Keeping

Medication administration will be recorded on a Medication Administration form. Dates and initials of administering personnel shall be recorded for each dose administered. Signatures and corresponding initials will be included on the form. Medication will be administered within a half-hour before or after the time indicated on the form. Administration time will also be noted for medication not given within this hour time, and any other PRN (as needed) medications. Dosage changes should have a discontinued date for the old dose and the new dose with a start date. Discontinued medications should be indicated with a discontinued date and removed from the active file. Medications and dosage will be recorded by using the medication name followed by dosage in milligrams. The number of tablets or liquid measure may be included in parenthesis as an aid for non-licensed staff.

H. Responsibility

A registered nurse will review all new medications and all dosage changes before the initial dose is given at school. Only registered nurses may delegate the administration of medication. Health assistants to whom this responsibility is delegated will receive in-service training by the nurse regarding the medication and appropriate administration.

I. Field Trips

Medications to be given to students on day field trips will be pre-packaged by nurses or health assistants to be administered by the delegated district employee. Sealed medication envelopes will include the student name, medication, dosage, number of pills, and time to be administered. Other PRN medication will also be sent with the responsible school personnel including any emergency plan that dictates the use of such medication. Medication to be used on overnight school trips will be provided by parents directly to the accompanying health professional or teacher.

J. Return of Unused Medication

Unused medication will be returned at the end of the school year or at the time the medication is discontinued. Advance notice (postcard, phone call, or newsletter) will be given to families indicating the school plans for medication return. Parents will be asked to inform the health office if they would prefer to pick up the medication or would like the medication sent home with the student on the last day of school. Medication not picked up by the parents according to their plan will be destroyed at the end of the school year. Medication to be returned via an elementary student will be sent in a sealed bag at the end of the specified school day.

K. Errors

In the event of a medication error, the parent/guardian and the school administrator will be notified by phone in a prompt manner. The student’s physician will also be consulted as needed. Medication errors will be documented on a Medication Error form and sent to the school administrator.

L. Unauthorized Use of Medication

Students observed by school personnel self-administering unauthorized medication on school grounds will be reported to parents by the school nurse or building administration. Cough drops will not be considered a medication under this policy. School protocol shall dictate the storage and use of cough drops.

M. Sunscreen

A student may possess and apply a topical sunscreen product during the school day while on school property or at a school-sponsored event without a prescription, physician's note, or other documentation from a licensed health care professional. School personnel are not required to provide sunscreen or assist students in applying sunscreen. 

N. Cannabis

Products containing Cannabis will not be administered by school personnel and these products cannot be brought on campus. This includes CBD containing products.

O. Students 18 Years and Older

“Parent” for students 18 years and older is the student for purposes of this policy.

P. Specific Exceptions:

1. Special health treatments and health functions such as catheterization, tracheostomy suctioning, and gastrostomy feedings do not constitute administration of drugs and medicine;

2. Emergency health procedures, including emergency administration of drugs and medicine are not subject to this policy;

3. Drugs or medicine provided or administered by a public health agency to prevent or control an illness or a disease outbreak are not governed by this policy;

Legal References:

Minn. Stat. § 13.32 (Student Health Data)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.21 (Hiring of Health Personnel)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.22 (Administration of Drugs and Medicine)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.221 (Possession and Use of Asthma Inhalers by Asthmatic Students)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.222 (Possession and Use of Nonprescription Pain Relievers by Secondary Students)
Minn. Stat. § 121A.2205 (Possession and Use of Non-syringe Injectors of Epinephrine; Model Policy)
Minn. Stat. § 151.212 (Label of Prescription Drug Containers)
20 U.S.C. § 1400 et seq. (Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004)
29 U.S.C. § 794 et seq. (Rehabilitation Act of 1973, § 504)

Cross References:

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 418 (Drug-Free Workplace/Drug-Free School)

Policy 516.pdf

MSBA/MASA Model Policy 516.5

Orig. 2023

Rev: June 2023

Rev:  Oct. 2023

516.5  OVERDOSE MEDICATION

1. PURPOSE

As a means of enhancing the health and safety of its students, staff and visitors, the school district will acquire, administer, and store doses of an opiate antagonist, specifically Naloxone (Narcan), and administration devices or kits for emergency use to assist a student, staff member, or other individual believed or suspected to be experiencing an opioid overdose on school district property during the school day or at school district activities.

2. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY

The school board authorizes school district administration to obtain and possess opioid overdose reversal medication, such as Naloxone to be maintained and administered to a student or other individual by trained school staff if the staff member determines in good faith that the person to whom the medication is administered is experiencing an opioid overdose. Authorization for obtaining, possessing and administering Naloxone or similar permissible medications under this policy are contingent upon: 1) the continued validity of state and federal law that permit a person who is not a healthcare professional to dispense an opiate antagonist to the school district and its employees by law; 2) that the school district and its staff are immune from criminal prosecution and not otherwise liable for civil damages for administering the opiate antagonist to another person who the staff member believes in good faith to be suffering from a drug overdose; and 3) the availability of funding either from outside sources or as approved by the school board to obtain and administer opioid overdose reversal medication.

3. DEFINITIONS

   1. "Drug-related overdose" means an acute condition, including mania, hysteria, extreme physical illness, respiratory depression or coma, resulting from the consumption or use of a controlled substance, or another substance with which a controlled substance was combined, and that a layperson would reasonably believe to be a drug overdose that requires immediate medical assistance.

   2. "Naloxone Coordinator" is a school district staff person or administrator appointed to monitor adherence to protocols outlined in this policy and referenced procedures. The Naloxone Coordinator is responsible for building-level administration and management of Opiate Antagonist medications and supplies. The school district's Naloxone Coordinator is Lori Watzl-King, District Wellness Coordinator.

   3. "Opiate" means any dangerous substance having an addiction forming or addiction sustaining liability similar to morphine or being capable of conversion into a drug having such addiction forming or addiction sustaining liability.

   4. "Opiate Antagonist" means naloxone hydrochloride ("Naloxone") or any similarly acting drug approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of a drug overdose.

   5. "Standing Order" means directions from the school district's medical provider that sets forth how to house and administer Naloxone or other Opiate Antagonist medications to students, staff members or other individuals believed or suspected to be experiencing an opioid overdose. This Standing Order should include the following information:

1. Administration type
2. Dosage
3. Date of issuance
4. Signature of the authorized provider

4. GENERAL STATEMENT OF POLICY AND RESPONSIBILITIES

   1. The school district must maintain a supply of opiate antagonists at each school site to be administered in compliance with Minnesota law.  Each school building must have two doses of nasal naloxone available on-site.

   2. A licensed physician, a licensed advanced practice registered nurse authorized to prescribe drugs pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 148.235, or a licensed physician assistant may authorize a nurse or other personnel employed by, or under contract with, a public school may be authorized to administer opiate antagonists as defined under Minnesota Statutes, section 604A.04, subdivision 1.

   3. A licensed practical nurse is authorized to possess and administer an opiate antagonist in a school setting notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, 148.235, subdivisions 8 and 9.

5. District Collaborative Planning and Implementation Team

To the extent Naloxone is obtained for use consistent with this policy, the school district will establish a district-wide collaborative planning and implementation team ("School District Planning Team") who will oversee the general development and operations related to the use of opiate antagonist Naloxone and regularly report to the school board as to its activities.

1. The District Planning Team will include the Naloxone Coordinator and may include the superintendent (or designee), school nurse, public health experts, first responders, student or family representatives, and community partners who will be assigned to the Team by the superintendent or designee or solicited as volunteers by the superintendent.

2. The School District Planning Team, through the Naloxone Coordinator, will obtain a protocol or Standing Order from a licensed medical prescriber for the use of Naloxone or other Opiate Antagonist by school district staff in all school facilities and activities and will update or renew the protocol or Standing Order annually or as otherwise required.  A copy of the protocol or Standing Order will be maintained in the office of the Naloxone Coordinator.

3. The School District Planning Team will develop district-wide guidelines and procedures and determine the form(s) of Naloxone to be used within the school district (nasal, auto injector, manual injector) and the method and manner of arranging for the financing and purchasing, storage and use of Naloxone to be approved by the school board. Once approved by the school board, these guidelines and procedures will be attached and incorporated into this policy. At a minimum, these guidelines and procedures will:

1. Ensure that when Naloxone is administered, school district employees must activate the community emergency response system (911) to ensure additional medical support due to the limited temporary effect of Naloxone and the continued need of recipients of additional medical care;

2. Require school district employees to contact a school district healthcare professional to obtain medical assistance for the recipient of the Naloxone, if possible, pending arrival of emergency personnel;

3. Direct school district employees to make immediate attempts to determine if the recipient is a minor and, if so, locate the identity of the parent or guardian of the minor and ensure contact with that parent or guardian is made as soon as possible after administration of the Naloxone for the purpose of informing the parent or guardian of the actions that have been taken; and

4. Require school district staff to inform the building administrator or other administrator overseeing an event or activity of the administration of Naloxone, as well as the Naloxone Coordinator, after taking necessary immediate emergency steps.

5. The School District Planning Team will determine the type and method of annual training, identify staff members at each school site to be trained and coordinate the implementation of the training with the assistance of the Naloxone Coordinator.

E.  Site Planning Teams

1. In consultation with the School District Planning Team, the administrator at each school site may establish, in the manner the superintendent or Naloxone Coordinator deems appropriate, a Site Planning Team within the school site.

2. The Site Planning Team will be responsible for the coordination and implementation of this policy, district-wide guidelines and procedures within the school site and will develop and implement any specific guidelines and procedure for the storage and use of Naloxone within the school site in a manner consistent with this policy and district wide procedures and guidelines.