Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                             Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                       Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Each year at its annual meeting, the board shall designate by resolution the name and location of the Iowa located financial depository institution or institutions to serve as the official school district depository or depositories.  The board will also designate the maximum amount which may be kept on deposit in each bank.  This amount will be designated the first time a new depository is identified, and will be reviewed at least once every year or when an increase or additional depository is needed. The amount stated in the resolution must be for all depositories and include all of the school district's funds.

It is the responsibility of the board secretary to include the resolution in the minutes of the meeting.

 

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code §§ 279.33

Cross Reference:     210.1 Annual Meeting

                                 206.4 Treasurer [or 206.3, Secretary-Treasurer]

                                  704.1 Local - State - Federal - Miscellaneous Revenue

Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                             Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                       Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

When the necessity for a fund has ceased to exist, the balance may be transferred to another fund or account by board resolution.  School district monies received without a designated purpose may be transferred in this manner.  School district monies received for a specific purpose or upon vote of the people may only be transferred, by board resolution when the purpose for which the monies were received has been completed.  Voter approval is required to transfer monies to the general fund from the capital projects fund and debt service fund.

If all requirements for district use of funds under the Preschool Foundation Aid, Professional Development Supplement, Home School Assistance Program, Teacher Leadership Supplement or any discontinued fund teacher have been met and funds remain unexpended and unobligated at the end of the fiscal year, the district may transfer all or a portion of remaining funds by passage of a board resolution into the district’s flexibility account in accordance with law.  Before the expenditure of amounts in the flexibility account, the district shall publish notice of the time, date, and place of a public hearing on the proposed resolution approving said expenditures. The board must find and certify that the statutory requirements of each original source of funds have been met before adopting the resolution approving the expenditures. The district will present a copy of the signed board resolution to the Department of Education.

The District may transfer by board resolution from the general fund to the student activity fund an amount needed to purchase or refurbish protective and safety equipment required for any extracurricular interscholastic athletic contest or competition sponsored or administered by the Iowa High School Athletic Association of Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union.

If the before and after school program exceeds the amount necessary to operate the program, the excess amount may, following a public hearing, be transferred by resolution of the board of directors of the school corporation for deposit in the general fund of the school corporation to be used for school district general fund purposes. The district will present a copy of the signed board resolution to the Department of Education.

Beginning in FY 2024, unexpended and unobligated dollars that remain at the end of a fiscal year in addition to ongoing revenues may be transferred to the Teacher Salary Supplement (TSS) program from Professional Development Supplement (PDS), Talented and Gifted (TAG), and Teacher Leadership Supplement (TLS) without board action.

The district may choose to request approval from the School Budget Review Committee to transfer funds to make a program whole, prior to its elimination. 

Temporary transfers (loans) of funds are permitted between funds but must be repaid to the originating fund, with interest, by Oct. 1 following the end of the fiscal year. 

It is the responsibility of the board secretary to make recommendations to the board regarding transfers and to provide the documentation justifying the transfer. 

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code §§ 24.21-.22; 279.8; 298A

Cross Reference:   701.3 Financial Records

                                  703   Budget

                                   704.2 Sale of Bonds

Original Adopted Date:  10-13-03                                   Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                  Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Financial records of the school district are maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as required or modified by law.  School district monies are received and expended from the appropriate fund and/or account.  The funds and accounts of the school district will include, but not be limited to:

Governmental fund type:

1.  General fund-This fund is the chief operating fund of the district. It is used to account for all financial resources except those accounted for and reported in another fund.

         2.  Special revenue fund-These funds account for the proceeds of specific revenue sources other than trusts or major capital projects, that are legally restricted or committed to expenditure for specified purposes other than debt service or capital projects.  

       Management levy fund

                  Physical plant and equipment levy fund

                  Public education and recreation levy fund

                  Student activity fund

           3.  Capital projects fund-These funds are used to account for financial resources to acquire or construct major capital facilities or other capital assets (other than those of proprietary funds and trust funds) and to account for revenues from SAVE.

           4.  Debt service fund-This fund is used to account for the accumulation of resources for, and the payment of, general long-term debt principal and interest.  

Proprietary fund type:These funds account for operations of the school district operated similar to private business for which a fee is charged to external users for goods or services, or they account for the costs of providing goods and services provided by one department to other departments on a cost reimbursement basis.  

5.  Enterprise fund

            School nutrition fund

                 Child care fund

             Alumni & Friends Fund

             HS Coffee House Fund

          Internal service fund

Fiduciary funds:These funds are used to account for monies or assets held by the school district on behalf of, or in trust for, another entity.   

           7.  Trust or agency funds

                 Expendable trust funds

                 Nonexpendable trust funds

                 Agency funds         

                 Pension trust funds

Account groups:The groups are the accounting records for capital assets and long-term debt.

            8. General fixed assets account group

            9. General long-term debt account group

As necessary the board may, by board resolution, create additional funds within the governmental, proprietary and fiduciary fund types.  The resolution shall state the type of fund, name of the fund and purpose of the fund.

The general fund is used primarily for the education program.  Special revenue funds are used to account for monies restricted to a specific use by law.  Proprietary funds account for operations of the school district operated similar to private business, and they account for the costs of providing goods and services provided by one department to other departments on a cost reimbursement basis.  Fiduciary funds are used to account for monies or assets held by the school district on behalf of, or in trust for, another entity.  The account groups are the accounting records for fixed assets and long-term debt.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to implement this policy and bring necessary changes in the maintenance of the school district's financial records to the attention of the board.

 

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code §§ 11.23; 298A.

Cross Reference:       704   Revenue

                                    705   Expenditures

Original Adopted Date:  7-11-11                                             Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                      Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

School district accounting practices will follow state and federal laws and regulations, generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and the uniform financial accounting system provided by the Iowa Department of Education.  As advised by the school district’s auditor, determination of liabilities and assets, prioritization of expenditures of governmental funds and provisions for accounting disclosures shall be made in accordance with governmental accounting standards.

In Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No. 54, the board identifies the order of spending unrestricted resources applying the highest level of classification of fund balance - restricted, committed, assigned, and unassigned - while honoring constraints on the specific purposes for which amounts in those fund balances can be spent.  A formal board action is required to establish, modify and or rescind a committed fund balance.  The resolution will state the exact dollar amount.  In the event, the board chooses to make changes or rescind the committed fund balance, formal board action is required.

The Board authorizes the superintendent and the board secretary to assign amounts to a specific purpose in compliance with GASB 54.  An ‘assigned fund balance’ should also be reported in the order of spending unrestricted resources, but is not restricted or committed. 

Fund Balance Reporting

Financial reporting for the balances in the District’s governmental funds is based on Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement 54, Fund Balance Reporting and Governmental Fund Types Definitions.  Fund balance refers to the difference between assets and liabilities in the governmental funds balance sheets.  GASB 54 established a hierarchy that is based on “the extent to which the government is bound to honor constraints on the specific purpose for which the amounts in those funds can be spent.”

The governmental funds can have up to five fund balance classifications.  The classifications are defined below from most to least restrictive.

Nonspendable Fund Balance includes amounts that cannot be spent because they are either not in spendable form, or legally or contractually required to be maintained intact.  This includes items not expected to be converted to cash, including inventories and prepaid expenses.  It may also include other property acquired for resale and the principal of a permanent fund.

Restricted Fund Balance should be reported when constraints placed on the use of resources are either externally imposed by creditors, grantors, contributors, or law or regulations of other governments; or imposed by law through constitutional provisions or enabling legislation.  This includes “categorical balances.”

Committed Fund Balance reflects specific purposes pursuant to constraints imposed by formal action of the board. Such constraints can only be removed or changed by board action.

Assigned Fund Balance reflects amounts that are constrained by the government’s intent to be used for specific purposes but meet neither the restricted nor committed forms of constraint.  Unless the amount is negative, the assigned fund balance is the residual classification for the governmental funds other than the general fund.  If the amount is negative, then the residual amount is shown as unassigned.

Unassigned Fund Balance is the residual classification for the general fund only.  As noted above, if a negative residual amount exists in other governmental funds then the amount is reported as unassigned.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations implementing this policy.  It is also the responsibility of the superintendent to make recommendations to the board regarding fund balance designations.  

 

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code §§ 257.31(4); 279.8; 297.22-.25; 298A

Cross Reference:      701.3 Financial Records

                                      703   Budget

                                      704   Revenue

Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                      Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Prior to certification of the budget, the board shall review the projected revenues and expenditures for the school district and make adjustments where necessary to carry out the education program within the revenues projected.The budget of the school district is the authority for the expenditures of the school district for the fiscal year for which the budget was adopted and certified.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to operate the school district within the budget. 

A budget for the school district is prepared annually for the board's review.  The budget shall include the following:

     1.   the amount of revenues from sources other than taxation;

     2.   the amount of revenues to be raised by taxation;

     3.   an itemization of the amount to be spent in each fund; and,

     4.   a comparison of the amount spent and revenue received in each fund for like purposes in at least two prior fiscal years.

It is the responsibility of the Business Manager to prepare the budget for review by the board prior to the April 30 deadline each year. The District will provide all of the information necessary for the Proposed Property Tax Statement to the Department of Management by March 15.

Mailing of Proposed Property Tax Hearing Statements is completed by the county auditor by March 20.  A public hearing notice for the Proposed Property Taxes shall be published not less than 10 days and not more than 20 days prior to the date of hearing. The hearing notice is published in a newspaper designated for official publication in the school district.  The hearing notice must also be posted on the district website and district social media accounts on the same day it is published in the newspaper. The hearing on the Proposed Property Tax must be a unique and separate meeting and be the only item on the agenda. 

Prior to the adoption of the proposed budget by the board, the public is apprised of the proposed budget for the school district.  Prior to the adoption of the proposed budget by the board, members of the school district community shall have an opportunity to review and comment on the proposed budget.  A public hearing for the proposed budget of the board is held each year in sufficient time to file the adopted budget no later than April 30.

The proposed budget filed by the board with the board secretary and the time and place for the public hearing on the proposed budget is published in a newspaper designated for official publication in the school district.  It is the responsibility of the board secretary to publish the proposed budget and public hearing information at least 10 but no more than 20 days prior to the public hearing.

The board will adopt and certify a budget for the operation of the school district to the county auditor by April 30.  It is the responsibility of the board secretary to file the adopted and certified budget with the county auditor and other proper authorities Iowa Department of Management.

The board may amend the budget for the fiscal year in the event of unforeseen circumstances.  The amendment procedures shall follow the procedures for public review and adoption of the original budget by the board outlined in these policies.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent and the board secretary to bring any budget amendments necessary to the attention of the board to allow sufficient time to file the amendment with the county auditor no later than May 31 of each year.

  

Legal Reference:        Iowa Code §§ 24; 257; 279.8; 297; 298; 618

Cross Reference:    214   Public Hearings

                                 703   Budget

                                 704   Revenue

                                 705   Expenditures

Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                             Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                       Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Revenues of the school district are received by the board treasurer.  Other persons receiving revenues on behalf of the school district shall promptly turn them over to the board treasurer.

Revenue, from whatever source, is accounted for and classified under the official accounting system of the school district.  It is the responsibility of the board treasurer to deposit the revenues received by the school district in a timely manner.  School district funds from all sources shall not be used for private gain or political purposes.

Tuition fees received by the school district are deposited in the general fund.  The tuition fees for kindergarten through twelfth grade during the regular academic school year are set by the board based upon the superintendent's recommendation in compliance with current law.  Tuition fees for summer school, driver's education and adult education are set by the board prior to the offering of the programs.

The board may charge materials fees for the use or purchase of educational materials.  Education materials fees received by the school district are deposited in the general fund.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to recommend to the board when materials fees will be charged and the amount of the materials fees.

Rental fees received by the school district for the rental of school district equipment or facilities are deposited in the general fund.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to recommend to the board a fee schedule for renting school district property.

Proceeds from the sale of real property are placed in the physical plant and equipment levy (PPEL) fund.  However, following a properly noticed public hearing, the board of directors may elect to deposit proceeds from the sale of real property or buildings into any fund under the control of the school corporation.  Notice for the public hearing must be published in a newspaper of general circulation within the district not less than ten and no more than twenty days prior to the proposed public hearing.  Notice of the public hearing must include the date, time and location of the public hearing, and a description of the proposed action.  The proceeds from the sale of other school district property are placed in the general fund.

The board may claim exemption from the law prohibiting competition with private enterprise for the following activities:

     1.   Goods and services directly and reasonably related to the educational mission;

     2.   Goods and services offered only to students, employees or guests which cannot be provided by private enterprise at the same or lower cost;

     3.   Use of vehicles for charter trips offered to the public, full- or part-time, or temporary students;

     4.   Goods and services which are not otherwise available in the quantity or quality required by the school district;

     5.   Telecommunications other than radio or television stations;

     6.   Sponsoring or providing facilities for fitness and recreation;

     7.   Food service and sales; and,

     8.   Sale of books, records, tapes, software, educational equipment, and supplies.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to bring to the board's attention additional sources of revenue for the school district.

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code §§ 12C; 23A; 257.2; 279.8; 282.2, .6, .24; 291.12, 297.9-.12, .22; 301.1

Cross Reference:       701.1 Depository of Funds

                                       703   Budget

                                       803   Selling and Leasing

                                       905   Use of School District Facilities & Equipment

 

 

Original Adopted Date:  3-11-83                                       Last Revised Date:  10-13-03                              Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

DEBT LIMITS

Credit Ratings

The school district seeks to maintain the highest possible credit ratings for all categories of short- and long-term debt that can be achieved without compromising the delivery of services and the achievement of adopted objectives.  The school district recognizes that external economic, natural, or other events may from time to time affect the creditworthiness of its debt. Nevertheless, the school district is committed to ensuring that actions within their control are prudent.

Debt Limits

For general obligation debt, the school district’s outstanding debt limit shall be no more than five percent (5%) of the actual value of property within the school district’s boundaries, as prescribed the Iowa constitution and statutory restrictions.

For revenue debt, the school district’s goal is to provide adequate debt service coverage of at least 1.20 times the annual debt service costs.

In accordance with Iowa law, the school district may not act as a conduit issuer or issue municipal securities to raise capital for revenue-generating projects where the funds generated are used by a third party (“conduit borrower”) to make payments to investors.

PURPOSES AND USES OF DEBT

Capital Planning

To enhance creditworthiness and prudent financial management, the school district is committed to systematic capital planning, intergovernmental cooperation and coordination and long-term financial planning.

Capital Financing

The school district may issue long-term debt for capital projects as authorized by Iowa law, which include, but are not limited to, the costs of planning, design, land acquisition, buildings, permanent structures, attached fixtures or equipment, and movable pieces of equipment. Capitalized interest may be included in sizing any capital project debt issue.  The types of debt instruments to be used by the school district include:

• General Obligation Bonds

• General Obligation Capital Loan Notes

• Bond Anticipation Notes

• Revenue Anticipation Notes

• School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds

• Lease Purchase Agreements, including Certificates of Participation

Working Capital Financing

The school district may issue debt for working capital for operations after cash flow analysis has determined that there is a mismatch between available cash and cash outflows.  The school district shall strive to repay working capital debt by the end of the fiscal year in which the debt was incurred.  A Working Capital Reserve may be included in sizing any working capital debt issue.

Refundings

Periodic reviews of all outstanding debt will be undertaken to determine if refunding opportunities exist. Refunding will be considered (within federal tax law restraints) if and when there is a net economic benefit of the refunding or if the refunding is otherwise in the best interests of the school district, such as to release restrictive bond covenants which affect the operations and management of the school district.

In general, advance refundings for economic savings will be undertaken when a net present value savings exceeds three percent of the refunded debt can be achieved.  Current refundings, which produce a new present value savings of less than three percent will be considered on a case by case basis taking into consideration bond covenants and general conditions.  Refundings with negative savings will not be considered unless there is a compelling public policy objective for doing so.

DEBT STANDARDS AND STRUCTURE

Length of Debt

Debt will be structured for the shortest period consistent with a fair allocation of costs to current and future beneficiaries or users.  Long-term debt will not be issued for periods exceeding the useful life or average useful lives of the project or projects to be financed.  All debt issued will adhere to state and federal law regarding the length of time the debt may be outstanding.

Debt Structure

Debt will be structured to achieve the lowest possible net cost to the school district given market conditions, the urgency of the capital project, the type of debt being issued, and the nature and type of repayment source.  To the extent possible, the school district will design the repayment of its overall debt to rapidly recapture its credit capacity for future use.

Generally, the school district will only issue fixed-rate debt.  In very limited circumstances, the school district may issue variable rate debt, consistent with the limitations of Iowa law and upon a finding of the board that the use of fixed rate debt is not in the best interest of the school district and a statement of the reasons for the use of variable rate debt.

All debt may be structured using discount, par or premium coupons, and as serial or term bonds or notes, or any combination thereof, consistent with Iowa law.  The school district should utilize the coupon structure that produces the lowest True Interest Cost (TIC) taking into consideration the call option value of any callable maturities.

The school district will strive to structure their debt in sinking fund installments for each debt issue that achieves, as nearly as practicable, level debt service within an issue or overall debt service within a particular classification of debt.

Derivatives (including, but not limited to, interest rate swaps, caps, collars, corridors, ceiling and floor agreements, forward agreements, float agreements, or other similar financing arrangements), zero-coupon or capital appreciation bonds are not allowed to be issued consistent with State law.

Decision Analysis to Issue Debt

Whenever the school district is contemplating the issuance of debt, information will be developed concerning the following four categories commonly used by rating agencies assessing the school district’s credit worthiness, listed below.

Debt Analysis – Debt capacity analysis; purpose for which debt is proposed to be issued; debt structure; debt burden; debt history and trends; and adequacy of debt and capital planning.

Financial Analysis – Stability, diversity, and growth rates of tax or other revenue sources; trend in assessed valuation and collections; current budget trends; appraisal of past revenue and expenditure trends; history and long-term trends of revenues and expenditures; evidences of financial planning; adherence to GAAP; audit results; fund balance status and trends in operating and debt funds; financial monitoring systems and capabilities; and cash flow projections.

Governmental and Administrative Analysis – Government organization structure; location of financial responsibilities and degree of control; adequacy of basic service provision; intergovernmental cooperation/conflict and extent of duplication; and overall planning efforts.

Economic Analysis – Geographic and location advantages; population and demographic characteristics; wealth indicators; types of employment, industry and occupation; housing characteristics; new construction; evidences of industrial decline; and trend of the economy.

DEBT ISSUANCE

Credit Enhancement

Credit enhancements (.i.e., bond insurance, etc.) may be used but only when the net debt service on the debt is reduced by more than the costs of the credit enhancement.

Costs and Fees

All costs and fees related to issuing the debt will be paid out of debt proceeds and allocated across all projects receiving proceeds of the debt issue.

Method of Sale

Generally, all school district debt will be sold through a competitive bidding process.  Bids will be awarded on a TIC basis providing other bidding requirements are satisfied.

The school district may sell debt using a negotiated process in extraordinary circumstances when the complexity of the issue requires specialized expertise, when the negotiated sale would result in substantial savings in time or money, or when market conditions of school district credit are unusually volatile or uncertain.

Professional Service Providers

The school district will retain external bond counsel for all debt issues.  All debt issued by the school district will include a written opinion by bond counsel affirming that the school district is authorized to issue the debt, stating that the school district has met all Iowa constitutional and statutory requirements necessary for issuance and determining the debt’s federal income tax status.  The bond counsel retained must have comprehensive municipal debt experience and a thorough understanding of Iowa law as it relates to the issuance of the particular debt.

The school district will retain an independent financial advisor.  The financial advisor will be responsible for structuring and preparing all offering documents for each debt issue.  The financial advisor retained will have comprehensive municipal debt experience, experience with diverse financial structuring and pricing of municipal securities.

The treasurer shall have the authority to periodically select other service providers (e.g., escrow agents, verification agents, trustees, arbitrage consultants, rebate specialist, etc.) as necessary to meet legal requirements and minimize net debt costs.  These services can include debt restructuring services and security or escrow purchases.

Compensation for bond counsel, financial advisor and other service providers will be as economical as possible and consistent with industry standards for the desired qualification levels.

Investment of Debt Proceeds

The school district shall invest all proceeds received from the issuance of debt separate from the school district’s consolidated cash pool unless otherwise specified by the authorizing bond resolution or trust indenture.  Investments will be consistent with those authorized by Iowa law and the school district’s Investment Policy to maintain safety of principal and liquidity of the funds.

Arbitrage and Record Keeping Compliance

The treasurer shall maintain a system of record-keeping, reporting and compliance procedures with respect to all federal tax requirements which are currently, or may become applicable through the lifetime of all tax-exempt or tax credit bonds.

Federal tax compliance, record-keeping, reporting and compliance procedures shall include not be limited to:

1) post-issuance compliance procedures (including proper use of proceeds, timely expenditure of proceeds, proper use of bond financed property, yield restriction and rebate, and timely return filing);

2) proper maintenance of records to support federal tax compliance;

3) investments and arbitrage compliance;

4) expenditures and assets;

5) private business use; and

6) designation of primary responsibilities for federal tax compliance of all bond financings.

Financial Disclosure

The school district is committed to full and complete financial disclosure, and to cooperating fully with rating agencies, institutional and individual investors, other levels of government, and the general public to share comprehensible and accurate financial information.  The school district is dedicated to meeting secondary disclosure requirements on a timely and comprehensive basis, as promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Official Statements accompanying debt issues, Annual Audits, and Continuing Disclosure statements will meet the standards articulated  by the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (MSRB), the Government Accounting Standards Board (GASB), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).  The treasurer shall be responsible for ongoing debt disclosure as required by any Continuing Disclosure Certificate for any debt issue and for maintain compliance with disclosure standards promulgated by state and federal regulatory bodies

  

Legal Reference        Iowa Code §§ 74-76; 278.1; 298; 298A

 

Cross Reference:       701   Financial Accounting System

                                   704   Revenue

Original Adopted Date: 09-12-22                                          Last Revised Date:                                            Last Reviewed Date:

 

1.    Role of Compliance Coordinator/Board Treasurer

 

     The Board Treasurer shall:  

 

a)     Be responsible for monitoring post-issuance compliance;

b)     Maintain a copy of the transcript of proceedings or minutes in connection with the issuance of any tax-exempt obligations and obtain records that are necessary to meet the requirements of this regulation;

c)     Consult with bond counsel, a rebate consultant, financial advisor, IRS publications and such other resources as are necessary to understand and meet the requirements of this regulation;

d)     Seek out training and education to be implemented upon the occurrence of new developments in the area and upon the hiring of new personnel to implement this regulation.

 

2.  Financing Transcripts’ Filing and Retention 

 

    The Board Treasurer shall confirm the proper filing of an IRS 8038 Series return and maintain a transcript of proceedings and minutes for all tax-exempt obligations issued by the school district including, but not limited to, all tax-exempt bonds, notes and lease-purchase contracts. Each transcript shall be maintained until 11 years after the tax-exempt obligation documents have been retired. The transcript shall include, at a minimum:

 

a)     Form 8038;

b)     Minutes, resolutions and certificates;

c)     Certifications of issue price from the underwriter;

d)     Formal elections required by the IRS;

e)     Trustee statements;

f)     Records of refunded bonds, if applicable;

g)     Correspondence relating to bond financings; and

h)     Reports of any IRS examinations for bond financings.

 

3.  Proper Use of Proceeds 

 

    The Board Treasurer shall review the resolution authorizing issuance for each tax-exempt obligation issued by the school district and the school district shall:

 

a)     Obtain a computation of the yield on such issue from the school district's financial advisor;

b)       Create a separate Project Fund (with as many sub-funds as shall be necessary to allocate proceeds among the projects being funded by the issue) into which the proceeds of issue shall be deposited;

c)     Review all requisitions, draw schedules, draw requests, invoices and bills requesting payment 

    from the Project Fund;

d)     Determine whether payment from the Project Fund is appropriate and, if so, make payment from the Project Fund (and appropriate sub-fund, if applicable);

    e)     Maintain records of the payment requests and corresponding records showing payment;

f)     Maintain records showing the earnings on, and investment of, the Project Fund;

g)     Ensure that all investments acquired with proceeds are purchased at fair market value; 

h)     Identify bond proceeds or applicable debt service allocations that must be invested with a yield-restriction and monitor the investments of any yield-restricted funds to ensure that the yield on such investments do not exceed the yield to which such investments are restricted;

    i) Maintain records related to any investment contracts, credit enhancement transactions and the bidding of financial products related to the proceeds.

 

4.      Timely Expenditure and Arbitrage/Rebate Compliance

 

    The Board Treasurer shall review the Tax-Exemption Certificate (or equivalent) for each tax-exempt obligation issued by the school district and the expenditure records provided in Section 2 of this regulation, above and shall:

 

a)     Monitor and ensure that proceeds of each such issue are spent within the temporary period set forth in such certificate;

b)     Monitor and ensure that the proceeds are spent in accordance with one or more of the applicable exceptions to rebate as set forth in such certificate if the school district does not meet the "small  issuer" exception for said obligation;

c)     Not less than 60 days prior to a required expenditure date, confer with bond counsel and a rebate consultant, if the school district will fail to meet the applicable temporary period or rebate exception expenditure requirements of the Tax-Exemption Certificate.  In the event the school district fails to meet a temporary period or rebate exception:

1.    Procure a timely computation of any rebate liability and, if rebate is due, file a Form 8038-T and arrange for payment of such rebate liability;

2.     Arrange for timely computation and payment of yield reduction payments (as such term is defined in the Code and Treasury Regulations), if applicable.

 

5.      Proper Use of Bond Financed Assets

 

    The Board Treasurer shall:

 

a)     Maintain appropriate records and a list of all bond financed assets.  Such records shall include the actual amount of proceeds (including investment earnings) spent on each of the bond financed assets;

b)     Monitor and confer with bond counsel with respect to all proposed bond financed assets;

1.     management contracts;

2.   service agreements;

3.     research contracts;

4.     naming rights contracts;

5.     leases or sub-leases;

6.      joint venture, limited liability or partnership arrangements; 

7.     sale of property; or

8.     any other change in use of such asset.

c)     Maintain a copy of the proposed agreement, contract, lease or arrangement, together with the response by bond counsel with respect to said proposal for at least three years after retirement of all tax-exempt obligations issued to fund all or any portion of bond financed assets; and

d)     Contact bond counsel and ensure timely remedial action under IRS Regulation Sections 1.141-12 in the event the school district takes an action with respect to a bond financed asset, which causes the private business tests or private loan financing test to be met.

 

6.      General Project Records

    

    For each project financed with tax-exempt obligations, the Board Treasurer shall maintain, until three years after retirement of the tax-exempt obligations or obligations issued to refund those obligations, the following:

 

a)     Appraisals, demand surveys or feasibility studies;

b)     Applications, approvals and other documentation of grants;

c)     Depreciation schedules;

d)     Contracts respecting the project.

 

Legal References:      As noted throughout the Policy

 

Original Adopted Date: 4-11-83                                              Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                        Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

School district funds in excess of current needs are invested in compliance with this policy.  The goals of the school district's investment portfolio in order of priority are:

     1.   To provide safety of the principal;

     2.   To maintain the necessary liquidity to match expected liabilities; and

     3.   To obtain a reasonable rate of return.

In making investments, the school district shall exercise the care, skill, prudence and diligence under the circumstances then prevailing that a prudent person acting in a like capacity and familiar with such matters would use to meet the goals of the investment program.

School district funds are monies of the school district, including operating funds.  "Operating funds" of the school district are funds which are reasonably expected to be used during a current budget year or within fifteen months of receipt.  When investing operating funds, the investments must mature within three hundred and ninety-seven days or less. If, during the current budget year an amount of public funds will exceed operating funds by at least thirty-three percent, the amount of public funds that exceed operating funds by greater than thirty-three percent may be invested in certificates of deposit at federally insured depository institutions which mature within sixty-three months or less, in accordance with state and federal laws. When investing funds other than operating funds, the investments must mature according to the need for the funds.

The board authorizes the treasurer to invest funds in excess of current needs in the following investments.

     1.   Interest bearing savings, money market, and checking accounts at the school district's authorized depositories;

     2.   Iowa Schools Joint Investment Trust Program (ISJIT);

     3.   Certificates of deposit and other evidences of deposit at federally insured Iowa depository institutions;

     4.   Obligations of the United States government, its agencies and instrumentalities; and

     5.   An open-ended management investment company registered with federal securities and exchange commission under the federal Investment Company Act of 1940, 15 U.S.C. Section 80 (a), and operated in accordance with 17 C.F.R. Section 270.2a-7.

6.  Commercial paper or other short-term corporate debt that matures within two hundred seventy days and that is rated within the two highest classifications, as established by at least one of the standard rating services, with no more than five percent at the time of purchase placed in the second highest classification.  At the time of purchase no more than ten percent of the investment portfolio can be in these investments and no more than five percent of the investment portfolio can be invested in the securities of a single issuer; and,

7.  Prime bankers' acceptances that mature within two hundred seventy days and that are eligible for purchase by a federal reserve bank.  At the time of purchase no more than ten percent of the investment portfolio can be in these investments and no more than five percent of the investment portfolio can be invested in the securities of a single issuer;

8.  Repurchase agreements in which underlying collateral consists of investments in government securities.  The school district must take delivery of the collateral either directly or through an authorized custodian.  Repurchase agreements do not include reverse repurchase agreements;

It is the responsibility of the treasurer to oversee the investment portfolio in compliance with this policy and the law.

It is the responsibility of the treasurer to bring a contract with an outside person to invest school district funds, to advise on investments, to direct investments, to act in a fiduciary capacity or to perform other services to the board for review and approval.  The treasurer will also provide the board with information about and verification of the outside person's fiduciary bond.  Contracts with outside persons will include a clause requiring the outside person to notify the school district within thirty days of any material weakness in internal structure or regulatory orders or sanctions against the outside person regarding the services being provided to the school district and to provide the documents necessary for the performance of the investment portion of school district audit.  Contracts with outside persons will not be based on the performance of the investment portfolio.

The treasurer is responsible for reporting to and reviewing with the board at its regular meetings the investment portfolio's performance, transaction activity and current investments including the percent of the investment portfolio by type of investment and by issuer and maturities.  The report will also include trend lines by month over the last year and year-to-year trend lines regarding the performance of the investment portfolio.  It will also be the responsibility of the treasurer to obtain the information necessary to ensure that the investments and the outside persons doing business with the school district meet the requirements outlined in this policy.

It the responsibility of the superintendent to deliver a copy of this policy to the school district's depositories, auditor and outside persons doing investment business with the school district.

It shall also be the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the treasurer, to develop a system of investment practices and internal controls over the investment practices.  The investment practices are designed to prevent losses, to document the officers' and employees' responsibility for elements of the investment process and address the capability of the management.

 

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code §§ 11.2, .6; 12.62; 12B.10; 12C; 22.1, .14; 28E.2; 257; 279.29; 283A; 285; 502.701; 633.123

Cross Reference: 206.4 Treasurer

                             704   Revenue

Original Adopted Date;  4-11-83                                             Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                       Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The board believes gifts, grants, and bequests to the school district may be accepted when they shall further the interests of the school district.  The board shall have sole authority to determine whether the gift furthers the interests of the school district.

Gifts, grants, and bequests are approved by the board.  Once it has been approved by the board, a board member or the superintendent may accept the gift on behalf of the school district.

Gifts, grants, and bequests once accepted on behalf of the school district become the property of the school district.  Gifts, grants, and bequests are administered in accordance with terms, if any, agreed to by the board.

The naming of any portion of district buildings, facilities or grounds after a donor, benefactor or school patron shall require prior approval by the board.

  

Legal Reference:        Iowa Code §§ 279.42; 565.6

Cross Reference:     217   Gifts to Board of Directors

                                 402.4 Gifts to Employees

                                 508.1 Class or Student Group Gifts

 

Original Adopted Date:  4-9-90                                         Last Revised Date:  10-13-03                             Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Revenue raised by students or from student activities is deposited and accounted for in the student activities fund.  This revenue is the property of and is under the financial control of the board.  Students may use this revenue for purposes approved by the building principal. 

Whether such revenue is collected from student contributions, club dues, and special activities or result from admissions to special events or from other fund-raising activities, all funds shall be under the jurisdiction of the board and under the specific control of the building principal.  They shall be deposited in a designated depository and shall be disbursed and accounted for in accordance with instructions issued by the superintendent.

It is the responsibility of the Business Manager to keep student activity accounts up-to-date and complete.

Any unencumbered class or activity account balances shall automatically revert to the activity fund when a class graduates or an activity is discontinued.

Students involved shall be made aware of this policy by the administration, and may, prior to graduation, make a recommendation as to the disposition of the balance of funds.

 

Legal Reference:        Iowa Code §§ 11.23; 279.8

 

Cross Reference:     504   Student Activities

                                 701   Financial Accounting System

Original Adopted Date: 3-8-04                                                  Last Revised Date:                                                    Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The board has the right to charge admission fees for school events.  These events include, but are not limited to, athletic, musical and drama events.

The revenue generated by admission fees at school events shall be used to offset the costs associated with the operation of the school events or activities.

School booster groups may be employed to collect admission fees.  Remuneration to the booster group for this service shall be determined by the administration.

It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to develop a fee schedule for the board’s approval and to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Senior citizen passes are available for all district residents sixty-two (62) years of age or older.  These passes may be used at all school events except those as designated on the fee schedule.

The board believes that it is highly desirable for staff members to attend school events.  To facilitate attendance, the board will issue complimentary staff tickets annually that may be used at all school events except those as designated on the fee schedule.

 

Legal Reference:               Iowa Code §§ 279.8

Cross Reference:              702  Cash in Buildings

                                          701.1   Depository of Funds

Original Adopted Date: 09-12-22                                          Last Revised Date:                                      Last Reviewed Date:  8-12-24

Article I

Key Participants and Responsibilities

 

Section 1.01.  Compliance Officer.  By adoption of this Policy, the District hereby appoints the Board Treasurer to act as the Compliance Officer hereunder.

 

Section 1.02.  Responsibilities.  The Compliance Officer is responsible for the following tasks:

 

1. reviewing and approving all preliminary and final official statements relating to the District’s Securities, together with any supplements, for which a Disclosure Agreement is required (each, an "Official Statement"), before such documents are released, in accordance with Article III below;

 

2. moderating Board of Directors’ approval of all Financial Obligations triggering a Listed Event Notice under any new Disclosure Agreement entered into on or after February 27, 2019; 

 

(C)    reviewing the District’s status and compliance with Disclosure Agreements, including filings of disclosure documents thereunder and in compliance with this Policy, in accordance with Articles IV and V below;

 

(D)    serving as a "point person" for personnel to communicate issues or information that should be or may need to be included in any disclosure document;

 

(E)    recommending changes to this Policy to the Board of Directors as necessary or appropriate;

 

(F)    communicating with third parties, including coordination with outside consultants assisting the District, in the preparation and dissemination of disclosure documents to make sure that assigned tasks have been completed on a timely basis and make sure that the filings are made on a timely basis and are accurate; 

 

(G)    in anticipation of preparing disclosure documents, soliciting "material" information (as defined for purposes of federal securities law) from Employees identified as having knowledge of or likely to have information of Listed Events under Article IV or relevant to Disclosure Agreements; 

 

(H)    maintaining records documenting the District's compliance with this Policy; and

 

(I)    ensuring compliance with training procedures as described below.

 

The responsibilities of the Compliance Officer to make certain filings with the MSRB under Articles III (Annual Report Filings) and IV (Listed Event Filings) may be delegated by contract to a dissemination agent, under terms approved by the Board of Directors.

 

The Compliance Officer shall instruct Employees of the obligation to communicate with the Compliance Officer on any information relating to financial obligations or amendments to existing financial obligations promptly following occurrence.

 

Article II

Official Statements

 

Section 2.01.  Review and Approval of Official Statements.  Whenever the District issues Securities, an Official Statement may be prepared.  Each of these Official Statements contains information relating to the District’s finances.  The Compliance Officer (with advice from Bond Counsel, any retained Disclosure Counsel, and/or Financial Advisor) shall have primary responsibility for ensuring that all such information is accurate and not misleading in any material aspect.  The Official Statement may also include a certification that the information contained in the Official Statement regarding the District, as of the date of each Official Statement, does not contain any untrue statement of material fact or omit to state any material fact necessary to make the information contained in the Official Statement, in light of the circumstances under which it was provided, not misleading.  When undertaking review of a final or preliminary Official Statement, the Compliance Officer shall:

 

(A)    review the Official Statement to ensure: (i) that there are no material misstatements or omissions of material information in any sections, (ii) that the information relating to the District that is included in the Official Statement is accurate, and (iii) that when necessary the information relating to the District has been reviewed by a knowledgeable Employee or other appropriate person;  

 

(B)    draft, or cause to be drafted, for the Official Statement descriptions of (i) any material current, pending or threatened litigation, (ii) any material settlements or court orders and (iii) any other legal issues that are material information for purposes of the Official Statement; and

 

(C)    report any significant disclosure issues and concerns to the Board of Directors (with advice, as necessary, from Bond Counsel, retained Disclosure Counsel, if any, and/or Financial Advisor). 

 

Section 2.02.  Submission of Official Statements to Board of Directors for Approval.  The Compliance Officer shall submit all Official Statements to the Board of Directors for review and approval.  The Board of Directors shall undertake such review it deems necessary.  This may include consultation with the Compliance Officer, Bond Counsel, retained Disclosure Counsel, if any, and/or the Financial Advisor to fulfill the District's responsibilities under applicable federal and state securities laws. 

 

Article III

Annual Report Filings

 

Section 3.01.  Overview.  Under the Disclosure Agreements the District has entered into in connection with certain of its Securities, the District is required each year to file Annual Reports with the EMMA system.  Such Annual Reports are generally required to include: (1) certain updated financial and operating information as outlined in each Disclosure Agreement, and (2) the District’s audited financial statements.  The documents, reports and notices required to be submitted to the MSRB pursuant to this Policy shall be submitted through EMMA in one or more electronic document format files as required by the Rule at the time of filing, and shall be accompanied by identifying information, in the manner prescribed by the MSRB, or in such other manner as is consistent with the Rule.  To facilitate the District’s Disclosure Agreements the Compliance Officer shall:

 

(A)    maintain a record of all Disclosure Agreements of the District using a chart which shall identify and docket all deadlines;  

 

(B)    schedule email reminders on the EMMA website for each issue of Securities to help ensure timely filing of financial disclosures;

 

(C)    ensure that preparation of the Annual Reports commences as required under each specific Disclosure Agreement; and

 

(D)    comply with the District’s obligation to file Annual Reports by submitting or causing the required (i) annual financial information and operating data and (ii) audited financial statements to be submitted to the MSRB through EMMA.  

 

(i)    In the event audited financial statements are not available by the filing deadline imposed by the Disclosure Agreement, the Compliance Officer shall instead timely submit or cause to be submitted unaudited financial statements, with a notice to the effect that the unaudited financial statements are being provided pending the completion of audited financial statements and that the audited financial statements will be submitted to EMMA when they have been prepared.  In the event neither audited nor unaudited financial statements are timely posted, the District shall cause to be filed a "failure to file notice" in accordance with the Rule.  The failure to file notice for audited financial statements shall include information describing the nature and/or cause of the failure to meet the contractual deadline and, if available, an approximate timeframe for when the completed audited financial statement is expected to be submitted. Audited financial statements shall be filed as soon as available. If updated financial and operating information is not posted by the filing deadline, the Compliance Officer shall cause a "failure to file notice" to be posted to EMMA in accordance with the Rule.  

 

(ii)    All documents submitted to the MSRB through EMMA that are identified by specific reference to documents already available to the public on the MSRB's Internet website or filed with the SEC shall be clearly identified by cross reference.

 

Article IV

Listed Event Filings

 

Section 4.01.  Disclosure of Listed Events.  The District is obligated to disclose to the MSRB notice of certain specified events with respect to the Securities (a "Listed Event").  Employees shall be instructed to notify the Compliance Officer upon becoming aware of any of the Listed Events in the District’s Disclosure Agreements.  The Compliance Officer may consult with Bond Counsel, retained Disclosure Counsel, if any, or the Financial Advisor, to determine if an occurrence is a Listed Event, and whether a filing is required or is otherwise desirable.  If such a filing is deemed necessary, the Compliance Officer shall cause a notice of the Listed Event (a "Listed Event Notice") that complies with the Rule to be prepared, and the Compliance Officer shall cause to be filed the Listed Event Notice as required by the Rule as follows:

 

(A)    Prior to issuance of new Securities on or after February 27, 2019, a complete list of current Financial Obligations shall be compiled and submitted to the Compliance Officer for continuous monitoring regarding compliance with all Disclosure Agreements entered on or after February 27, 2019.  

 

2.       The Compliance Officer shall:

 

1. monitor and periodically review the Listed Events identified on Exhibit A, in connection with the Disclosure Agreements identified on the chart in Exhibit B to determine whether any event has occurred that may require a filing with EMMA. To the extent Compliance Officer determines notice for an event is not required based on the event not achieving a level of materiality, Compliance Officer shall document the basis for the determination.  

 

2. In a timely manner, not in excess of ten (10) business days after the occurrence of the Listed Event, file a Listed Event Notice for Securities to which the Listed Event applies. 

 

3.       For Securities to which the Listed Event or Events are applicable, the Listed Event Notice shall be filed in a timely manner not in excess of ten (10) business days after the occurrence of the Listed Event. 

 

4.      The Compliance Officer shall monitor Securities data on EMMA regarding rating agency reports for rated Securities and may subscribe to any available ratings agency alert service regarding the ratings of any Securities.

 

 

Article V

Miscellaneous

 

Section 5.01.  Documents to be Retained.  The Compliance Officer shall be responsible for retaining records demonstrating compliance with this Policy.  The Compliance Officer shall retain an electronic or paper file ("Transcript") for each Annual Report the District completes.  Each Transcript shall include final versions of documents submitted to the MSRB through EMMA, and any documentation related to determinations of materiality (or immateriality) of Listed Events.  The Transcript shall be maintained for the period that the applicable Securities are outstanding, and for a minimum of five [5] years after the date the final Annual Report for an issue of Securities is posted on EMMA.

 

Section 5.02.  Education and Training.  The District shall conduct periodic training to assist the Compliance Officer, Employees and the Supervisors, as necessary and appropriate, in understanding and performing their responsibilities under this Policy.  Such training sessions may include a review of this Policy, the disclosure obligations under the Disclosure Agreement(s), applicable federal and state securities laws, including the Listed Events in Exhibit A, and the disclosure responsibilities and potential liabilities of members of District staff and members of the Board of Directors.  Training sessions may include meetings with Bond Counsel, retained Disclosure Counsel, if any, Dissemination Agent, if any, or Financial Advisor, and teleconferences, attendance at seminars or conferences where disclosure responsibilities are discussed, and/or recorded presentations. Compliance Officer shall maintain a record of training activities in furtherance of this Policy.  

 

Section 5.03.  Public Statements Regarding Financial Information.  Whenever the District makes statements or releases information relating to its finances to the public that is reasonably expected to reach investors and the trading markets (including, without limitation, all Listed Event Notices, statements in the annual financial reports, and other financial reports and statements of the District), the District is obligated to ensure that such statements and information are accurate and complete in all material aspects.  The Compliance Officer shall assist the Board of Directors, the Superintendent, and District’s Attorneys in ensuring that such statements and information are accurate and not misleading in any material aspect.  Employees shall, to the extent possible, coordinate statements or releases as outlined above with the Compliance Officer.  Investment information published on the District’s website shall include a cautionary statement referring investors to EMMA as the official repository for the District’s Securities-related data.

 

 

EXHIBIT A

 

LISTED EVENTS

 

The following events automatically trigger a requirement to file on EMMA within ten (10) business days of their occurrence (listed events are subject to change by the SEC):

 

(1) Principal and interest payment delinquencies;

 

(2) Non-payment related defaults, if material;

 

(3) Unscheduled draws on debt service reserves reflecting financial difficulties;

 

(4) Unscheduled draws on credit enhancements reflecting financial difficulties;

 

(5) Substitution of credit or liquidity providers, or their failure to perform;

 

(6) Adverse tax opinions, the issuance by the Internal Revenue Service of proposed or final determinations of taxability, Notices of Proposed Issue (IRS Form 5701-TEB) or other material notices or determinations with respect to the tax status of the security, or other material events affecting the tax status of the security;

 

(7) Modifications to rights of security holders, if material;

 

(8) Bond calls, if material, and tender offers;

 

(9) Defeasances;

 

(10) Release, substitution, or sale of property securing repayment of the securities, if material;

 

(11) Rating changes;

 

(12) Bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar event of the obligated person;

 

Note to paragraph (b)(5)(i)(C)(12):

For the purposes of the event identified in paragraph (b)(5)(i)(C)(12) of this section, the event is considered to occur when any of the following occur: The appointment of a receiver, fiscal agent or similar officer for an obligated person in a proceeding under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code or in any other proceeding under state or federal law in which a court or governmental authority has assumed jurisdiction over substantially all of the assets or business of the obligated person, or if such jurisdiction has been assumed by leaving the existing governing body and officials or officers in possession but subject to the supervision and orders of a court or governmental authority, or the entry of an order confirming a plan of reorganization, arrangement or liquidation by a court or governmental authority having supervision or jurisdiction over substantially all of the assets or business of the obligated person.

 

(13) The consummation of a merger, consolidation, or acquisition involving an obligated person or the sale of all or substantially all of the assets of the obligated person, other than in the ordinary course of business, the entry into a definitive agreement to undertake such an action or the termination of a definitive agreement relating to any such actions, other than pursuant to its terms, if material;

 

(14) Appointment of a successor or additional trustee or the change of name of a trustee, if material; 

 

Additionally, the following events apply to Disclosure Agreements entered by the District on or after February 27, 2019:

 

(15) Incurrence of a Financial Obligation of the obligated person, if material, or agreement to covenants, events of default, remedies, priority rights, or other similar terms of a Financial Obligation of the obligated person, any of which affect security holders, if material*; and 

 

(16) Default, event of acceleration, termination event, modification of terms, or other similar events under the terms of a Financial Obligation of the obligated person, any of which reflect financial difficulties.

 

02038971-1\18246-014

 

Example

 

Original Adopted Date: 4-11-83                                       Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                  Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The board supports economic development in Iowa, particularly in the school district community. As permitted by law, purchasing preference will be given to Iowa goods and services from locally-owned businesses located within the school district or Iowa based companies if the cost and other considerations are relatively equal and meet the required specifications. However, when spending federal Child Nutrition Funds, geographical preference is allowed only for unprocessed agricultural food items as a part of response evaluation. Other statutory purchasing preferences will be applied as provided by law, including goals with regard to procurement from certified targeted small businesses, minority-owned businesses, and female owned businesses.

Goods and Services

The board shall enter into goods and services contract(s) as the board deems to be in the best interest of the school district. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to approve purchases, except those requiring board approval as described below or as provided by in law. The superintendent may coordinate and combine purchases with other governmental bodies to take advantage of volume price breaks. Joint purchases with other political subdivisions will be considered in the purchase of equipment, accessories, or attachments with an estimated cost of $50,000 or more.

Purchases for goods and services shall conform to the following:

1. The superintendent shall have the authority to authorize purchases without prior board approval and without competitive request for proposals, quotations, or bids for goods and services up to $25,000.

2. For goods and services costing at least $25,000 and up to the legal limit, the superintendent shall receive proposals, quotations, or bids for the goods and

services to be purchased prior to board approval. The quotation process may be informal, and include written or unwritten quotations.

1. For goods and services exceeding, the legal limit in number two, the competitive request for proposal (RFP) or competitive bid process shall be used and received prior to board approval. RFPs and bids are formal, written submissions via sealed process.

In the event that only one quotation or bid is submitted, the board may proceed if the quotation or bid meets the contract award specifications.

The contract award may be based on several cost considerations including, but not limited to the following:

• The cost of the goods and services being purchased;

• Availability of service and/or repair;

• The targeted small business procurement goal and other statutory purchasing preferences; and

• Other factors deemed relevant by the board.

The Board may elect to exempt certain professional services contracts from the thresholds and procedures outlined above.

The thresholds and procedures related to purchases of goods and services do not apply to public improvement projects.

Public Improvements

The board shall enter into public improvement contract(s) as the board deems to be in the best interest of the school district. ‘Public improvement’ means “a building or construction work which is constructed under the control of a governmental entity and for which either of the following applies: (1) has been paid for in whole or in part with funds of the governmental entity; (2) a commitment has been made prior to construction by the governmental entity to pay for the building or construction work in whole or in part with funds of the governmental entity. This includes a building or improvement constructed or operated jointly with any public or private agency.”

The district shall follow all requirements, timelines, and processes detailed in Iowa law related to public improvement projects. The thresholds regarding when competitive bidding or competitive quotations is required will be followed. Competitive bidding is required for public improvement contracts exceeding the minimum threshold stated in law. Competitive quotations are required for public improvement projects that exceed the minimum threshold amount stated in law, but do not exceed the minimum set for competitive bidding. The board shall approve competitive bids and competitive quotes. If the total cost of the public improvement does not warrant either competitive bidding or competitive quotations, the district may nevertheless proceed with either of these processes, if it so chooses.

The award of all contracts for the public improvement shall be awarded to the lowest responsive, responsible bidder. In the event of an emergency requiring repairs to a school district facility that exceed bidding and quotation thresholds, please refer to policy 802.3 – Emergency Repairs.

The district shall comply with all federal and state laws and regulations required for procurement, including the selection and evaluation of contractors.  The superintendent or designee is responsible for developing an administrative process to implement this policy, including, but not limited to, procedures related to suspension and debarment for transactions subject to those requirements.

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 26; 28E; 72.3; 73; 73A; 285; 297; 301.

261 I.A.C. 54.

281 I.A.C. 43.25.

Cross Reference:

705 Expenditures

801.4 Site Acquisition

802 Maintenance, Operation and Management

802.3 Emergency Repairs

803 Selling and Leasing

Original Adopted Date:  1-26-98                                                                   Last Revised Date:                    Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Generally, the school district shall not purchase items on behalf of employees.  The school district may in unusual and unique circumstances do so.  It is within the discretion of the board to determine when unique and unusual circumstances exist.

No purchase is made unless the employee has paid the school district prior to the order being placed and the employee has agreed to be responsible for any taxes or other expenses due.

 

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:     703   Budget

Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                      Last Revised Date:  2-24-14                                Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The board authorizes the issuance of warrants for payment of claims against the school district for goods and services.  The board shall allow the warrants after the goods and services have been received and accepted in compliance with board policy and the claims audited by the board.

Claims for payment of freight, drayage, express, postage, printing, water, lights, telephone, rents, and payment of salaries pursuant to the terms of a written contract may be paid by the Business Manager prior to formal audit and approval by the board.  In addition the Business Manager, upon approval of the board president, may issue warrants for approved registrations, claims offering a discount for early payment, approved travel expenses, approved goods and services delivered C.O.D. and other verified bills filed with the Business Manager when the board is not in session prior to payment of these claims and prior to audit and approval by the board.  The Business Manager shall examine the claims and verify bills.

The Business Manager shall determine to the Business Manager’s satisfaction that the claims presented to the board are in order and are legitimate expenses of the school district.  It is the responsibility of the secretary to bring claims to the board.

The Board President and Business Manager may sign warrants by use of an electronic signature or rubber stamp.  If the board president is unavailable to personally sign warrants, the vice president may sign warrants on behalf of the president.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop the administrative regulations regarding this policy.

Legal Reference:         Love v. City of Des Moines, 210 Iowa 90, 230 N.W. 373 (1930).

                                 Iowa Code §§ 279.8, .29, .30, .36; 291.12; 721.2(5)

                                 281 I.A.C. 12.3(1).

                                 1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 102, 160, 720.

                                 1976 Op. Att'y Gen. 69.

                                 1972 Op. Att'y Gen. 130, 180, 392, 456, 651.

                                 1936 Op. Att'y Gen. 375.

Cross Reference:     705   Expenditures

Original Date:  8-12-24                                                             Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                       Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The board recognizes that school district funds are public funds, and as such, should be used to further a public purpose and the overall educational mission of the school community.  The district is committed to managing and spending public funds in a transparent and responsible manner.  Prior to making a purchase with public funds, an individual should be comfortable defending the purchase/reimbursement to the taxpayers in the district.  If the individual is uncomfortable doing so, the purchase may not fulfill a public purpose and additional guidance should be sought before the purchase is made.    

 

Individuals who have concerns about the public purpose of a purchase or reimbursement should utilize the district’s Internal Controls policy and regulation as a resource for questioning a purchase.  Concerns should be reported to the superintendent and/or the board president.  

 

The superintendent shall develop a process for approving expenditures of public funds.  The board will review expenditures and applicable reports as necessary to ensure proper oversight of the use of public funds.  To the extent possible, expenditures shall be pre-approved by the district prior to expending the funds.  Purchases of food and refreshment for district staff, even within district, should comply with the district’s Employee Travel Compensation policy, and all other applicable policies.  All purchases/reimbursements shall comply with applicable laws, board policies and district accounting requirements.

 

Additional guidance regarding appropriate expenditures of school funds is provided in the regulation accompanying this policy

 

NOTE:  All use of public funds should directly serve a public purpose in a clear and transparent manner.  Districts should consider what purchasing and reimbursement flexibility is needed for their district and apply all restrictions equally.  

 

Legal Reference:

Iowa Constitution Art. III, sec. 31;  Iowa Code §§ 68A.505; 279.8; 721.2. 281 I.A.C. 98.70

 

 

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I.C. Iowa Code	Description
Iowa Code § 279.8	Directors - General Rules - Bonds of Employees
Iowa Code § 68A.505	Campaign Finance - Use of Public Money
Iowa Code § 721.2	Misconduct in Office - Nonfeloniuos
Iowa Constitution	Iowa Constitution

 

I.A.C. Iowa Administrative Code	Description
281 I.A.C. 98	Education - Categorical Funding

 

Iowa Constitution	Description
Iowa Constitution	Art. III, § 31

Cross References

Code	Description
401.07	Employee Travel Compensation
704.01	Local - State - Federal - Miscellaneous Revenue
704.05	Student Activities Fund
705.01	Purchasing – Bidding
705.01-R(1)	Purchasing – Bidding - Suspension and Debarment of Vendors and Contractors Procedure
705.01-R(2)	Purchasing – Bidding - Using Federal Funds in Procurement Contracts
705.03	Payment for Goods and Services
707.05	Internal Controls
707.05-R(1)	Internal Controls - Procedures
905.01	Community Use of School District Buildings & Sites & Equipment
905.01-R(1)	Community Use of School District Buildings & Sites & Equipment - Regulation
905.01-R(2)	Community Use of School District Buildings & Sites & Equipment - Fees Schedule
905.01-E(1)	Community Use of School District Buildings & Sites & Equipment - Application Form
905.01-E(2)	Community Use of School District Buildings & Sites & Equipment - Indemnity and Liability Insurance Agreement

Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                      Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                 Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The payroll period for the school district is monthly.  Employees are paid on the 25th day of each month.  If this day is a holiday, recess, or weekend, the payroll is paid on the last working day prior to the holiday, recess or weekend.

It is the responsibility of the Business Manager to issue payroll to employees in compliance with this policy.

The requirements stated in the Master Contract between employees in a certified collective bargaining unit and the board regarding payroll periods of such employees shall be followed.

 

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code §§ 20.9; 91A.2(4), .3

Cross Reference:     706.2 Payroll Deductions

Original Adopted Date: 4-11-83                                      Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                  Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Ease of administration is the primary consideration for payroll deductions, other than those required by law.  Payroll deductions are made for federal income tax withholdings, Iowa income tax withholdings, social security, Medicare, Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System, and other deductions as required by law. In addition, any employee may elect to have payments withheld for district related and mutually agreed upon group insurance coverage and/or tax-sheltered annuity programs. 

Written requests for the purchase of or a change in tax-sheltered annuities shall be on file in the payroll department thirty (30) days prior to the desired effective date.  Requests for reductions in gross wages for contributions to tax-sheltered annuities shall conform to the standards of Internal Revenue Service, and all other governing and regulatory agencies in effect at the time of the request.  Deductions for tax-sheltered annuities may be revoked thirty (30) days after receiving a written request from the employee.

The district may deduct wages as required or allowed by state or federal law or by order of the court of competent jurisdiction.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to determine which additional payroll deductions shall be allowed.

The requirements stated in the Master Contract between employees in a certified collective bargaining unit and the board regarding payroll deductions of such employees shall be followed.

 

Legal Reference:        Iowa Code §§ 91A.2(4), .3; 294.8-.9, .16

Cross Reference:    406.6 Licensed Employee Tax Shelter Programs

                                 412.4 Classified Employee Tax Shelter Programs

                                 706.1 Payroll Periods

Original Adopted Date:  2-24-14                                      Last Revised Date:                                               Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The district provides leaves of absences to allow employees to be absent from work to attend to important matters outside of the workplace. As public employers, school districts are expected to record and monitor the work that employees perform and to conform to principles of public accountability in their compensation practices.

Consistent with principles of public accountability, it is the policy of the district that, when an employee is absent from work for less than one work day and the employee does not use accrued leave for such absence, the employee’s pay will be reduced or the employee will be placed on leave without pay if:

• the employee has not sought permission to use paid leave for this partial-day absence,

• the employee has sought permission to use paid leave for this partial-day absence and permission has been denied,

• the employee’s accrued paid leave has been exhausted, or,

• the employee chooses to use leave without pay.

In each case in which an employee is absent from work for part of a work day, a deduction from compensation will be made or the employee will be placed on leave without pay for a period of time which is equal to the employee’s absence from the employee’s regularly scheduled hours of work on that day.

 Legal Reference:          29 U.S.C. Sec. 2 13(a)

                                      29 C.F.R. Part 541

Cross References:   409.8 Licensed Employee Unpaid Leave

Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                       Last Revised Date:  1-26-98                               Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The board secretary shall report to the board each month about the receipts, disbursements and balances of the various funds.  This report shall be in written form and sent to the board with the agenda for the board meeting.

Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                      Last Revised Date:  10-13-03                             Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24 

At the annual meeting, the treasurer shall give the annual report stating the amount held over, received, paid out, and on hand in the general and schoolhouse funds.  This report is in written form and sent to the board with the agenda for the board meeting.  The treasurer shall also furnish the auditor with a sworn statement from each depository showing the balance then on deposit.

It is the responsibility of the treasurer to submit this report to the board annually.

 Legal Reference:       Iowa Code §§ 279.31, .33

Cross Reference:       206.4 Treasurer [or 206.3, Secretary-Treasurer]

                                   210.1 Annual Meeting

                                   707   Fiscal Reports

Each month the schedule of bills allowed by the board is published in a newspaper designated as a newspaper for official publication.  Annually, the total salaries paid to employees regularly employed by the school district shall also be published in a newspaper designated as a newspaper for official publication.

It is the responsibility of the board secretary to publish these reports in a timely manner.

 

 

 

 

Legal Reference:         Iowa Code §§ 279.35, .36; 618   1952 Op. Att'y Gen. 133.

Cross Reference:        206.3    Secretary [or Secretary-Treasurer]

Approved:                    4-11-83 

Reviewed:                   3-14-94, 10-13-03, 11-10-08, 2-24-14, 8-12-19

Revised:                      1-26-98

Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                    Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                  Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

To review the funds and accounts of the school district, the board shall employ an auditor to perform an annual audit of the financial affairs of the school district.  The superintendent shall use a request for proposal procedure in selecting an auditor.  The administration shall cooperate with the auditors.

In accordance with state law, to review the funds and accounts of the school district, the board will employ an independent auditor certified in the state of Iowa to perform an annual audit of the financial affairs of the school district.  The superintendent or designee will use a request for proposal procedure in selecting an auditor.  The administration will cooperate with the auditors. Annual audit reports will be filed with the State Auditor and remain on file as permanent records of the school district. 

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code § 11.6

Cross Reference:      701   Financial Accounting System

                                   707   Fiscal Reports

Original Adopted Date:  11-10-08                                     Last Revised Date:                                               Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The Board expects all board members, employees, volunteers, consultants, vendors, contractors, students and other parties maintaining any relationship with the school district to act with integrity, due diligence, and in accordance with all laws in their duties involving the school district’s resources.  The board is entrusted with public dollars and no one connected with the school district should do anything to erode that trust.

Internal control is the responsibility of all employees of the school district. The superintendent, business manager and board secretary shall be responsible for developing internal controls designed to prevent and detect fraud, financial impropriety, or fiscal irregularities within the school district subject to review and approval by the board.  Administrators shall be alert for any indication of fraud, financial impropriety, or irregularity within the administrator’s area of responsibility.

Any employee who suspects fraud, impropriety, or irregularity shall report their suspicions immediately to his/her immediate supervisor, and the superintendent.  The superintendent shall have primary responsibility for any necessary investigations and shall coordinate investigative efforts with the board’s legal counsel, auditing firm, and other internal or external departments and agencies, including law enforcement officials, as the superintendent may deem appropriate.

Employees bringing forth a legitimate concern about a potential impropriety will not be retaliated against and those who do retaliate against such an employee will be subject to disciplinary action up to, and including, discharge.

In the event the concern or complaint involves the superintendent, the concern shall be brought to the attention of the board vice-president, or vice-president who shall be empowered to contact the board’s legal counsel, insurance agent, auditing firm, and any other agency to investigate the concern or complaint.

Upon approval of the board, the superintendent, or vice-president or president, may contact the State Auditor or elect to employ the school district’s auditing firm or State Auditor to conduct a complete or partial forensic/internal control/SAS99 audit annually or otherwise as often as deemed necessary.  The superintendent is authorized to order a complete forensic audit if, in the superintendent’s judgment, such an audit would be useful and beneficial to the school district.  The superintendent, or vice-president or president, shall ensure the State Auditor is notified of any suspected embezzlement or theft pursuant to Iowa law.  In the event, there is an investigation; records will be maintained for use in the investigation.  Individuals found to have altered or destroyed records will be subject to disciplinary action, up to, and including termination.

Legal References:      American Competitiveness and Corporate Accountability Act of 2002, Pub. L.

                                     No. 107-204.

                                       Iowa Code ch. 11, 279.8

Cross References:         401.12  Employee Use of Cell Phones

                                       707.6 Audit Committee

Original Adopted Date:  8-12-24                                              Last Revised Date:                                                      Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The board recognizes that it is charged with raising tax revenues and related expenditures to maintain the educational program for the school district.  Public funds are held in trust by the board to be spent appropriately on the educational program.  To further ensure funds are spent appropriately, the board establishes an audit committee to assist the board on internal financial matters and with the annual audit.  

The audit committee is comprised of six members. Two board members, two community members, and two administrators.

The audit committee may at their discretion select a chair. The audit committee chair is selected by the board.

The major responsibilities of the audit committee are to:

• Recommend an auditor to the board every five years.

• Oversee the selection of the independent auditor and the resolution of audit findings including compliance with the mandatory request for proposal process. 

• Act as a liaison between the board and the auditor during the audit process.

• Annually report to the board about the annual audit.

• Recommend internal changes that may need to be made to ensure appropriate internal controls are being implemented.

• (insert other duties as desired by the board)

The audit committee will meet as directed by the board president.  The audit committee is subject to the open meetings law.

 

Legal Reference:

American Competitiveness and Corporate Accountability Act of 2002, Pub. L.  No. 107-204. Iowa Code §§ 11, 279.8.

I.C. Iowa Code Description

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

Iowa Code § 11 Auditor of State

Cross References

Code Description

208 Ad Hoc Committees

208-E(1) Ad Hoc Committees - Exhibit

707.5 Internal Controls

707.05-R(1) Internal Controls - Procedures

Original Adopted Date: 4-11-83                                              Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                             Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The school district will operate a school lunch and breakfast program in each attendance center.  The school food program services will include hot lunches through participation in the National School Lunch Program and supplementary foods for students during the school day.  Students may bring their lunches from home and purchase milk or juice and other incidental items.

School food service facilities are provided to serve students and employees when school is in session and during school-related activities.  They may also be used under the supervision of the administration for food service to employee groups, parent-teacher meetings, civic organizations meeting for the purpose of better understanding the schools, and senior citizens in accordance with board policy.

The school food program is operated on a nonprofit basis.  The revenues of the school food program will be used only for paying the regular operating costs of the school food program.  Supplies of the school food program will only be used for the school food program.

The board will set, and periodically review, the prices for school lunches, breakfast and special milk programs.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation regarding the prices of school nutrition programs, in accordance with federal and state law.

It is the responsibility of the nutrition director to administer the program and to cooperate with the superintendent and corresponding head cook for the proper functioning of the school food program.

Family nutrition accounts will be allowed to reach a negative balance of $5.00 per individual account member before eating privileges will be taken away.  An alternate meal at lunchtime will be provided for those over this threshold.  When an account reaches the threshold, a la carte items will not be allowed.  This shall apply to students and adults.  The superintendent shall have the right to make exceptions for extenuating circumstances.

Negative balances in the family nutrition accounts shall be carried over to the following school year.  Negative balances must be paid as part of the school registration process. An alternate meal at lunchtime will be provided for those having negative balances at the beginning of the school year.  Graduating seniors shall not take part in graduation ceremonies if they have a negative balance in the nutrition account.  The superintendent shall have the right to make exceptions for extenuating circumstances.

The district shall comply with all federal and state laws and regulations required for procurement, including the selection and evaluation of contractors.  The superintendent or designee is responsible for developing an administrative process to implement this policy, including, but not limited to, procedures related to suspension and debarment for transactions subject to those requirements and prohibitions on purchasing food products misbranded as meat or egg products, or cultivated-protein food products in accordance with applicable laws.

Legal Reference:    Iowa Code §§ 20.9; 85.2; 279.12, .28; 285.5(6), .10(6); 296.7; 298A; 517A.1; 670.7

                                 1974 Op. Att'y Gen. 171.

                                 1972 Op. Att'y Gen. 676.

Cross Reference:    205   Board Member Liability

                                 804   Safety Program

Original Adopted Date:  4-1-83                                        Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Students enrolled and attending school in the school district who meet USDA eligibility guidelines will be provided the school nutrition program services at no cost or at a reduced price.  The school district shall make reasonable efforts to prevent the overt identification of students who are eligible for free and reduced price meals.

The district shall at least twice annually  notify all families of the availability, eligibility criteria, and application procedures for free or reduced price meals in accordance with state and federal law.  

It is the responsibility of the building principal to determine if a student qualifies for free or reduced cost school food services.  Students, whom the principal believes are improperly nourished, shall not be denied the school food program services simply because the paperwork has not been completed.

If a student owes money for five or more meals, the Building Secretary, Building Principal, or Central Office Staff may contact the student’s parent or guardian to provide information regarding the application for free or reduced price meals.  The school is encouraged to provide reimbursable meals to students who request reimbursable meals unless the students’ parent or guardian has specifically provided written direction to the school to withhold a meal from the student.  

Employees, students and others shall be required to purchase tickets for meals consumed.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for implementing this policy. 

Legal Reference:   42 U.S.C. §§ 1751 et seq.

                                 7 C.F.R. Pt. 210 et seq.

                                 Iowa Code ch. 283A

                                 281 I.A.C. 58.

Cross Reference:    710   School Food Services

Original Adopted Date:  1-26-98                                      Last Revised Date:                                                Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Food served or purchased by students during the school day and food served or purchased for other than special circumstances is approved by the superintendent.  Vending machines in the school building are the responsibility of the building principal.  Purchases from the vending machines will reflect the guidelines in the Wellness policy 507.9.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for the use of vending machines and other sales of food to students.

 

 Legal Reference:  42 U.S.C. §§ 1751 et seq.

                                 7 C.F.R. Pt. 210 et seq.

                                 Iowa Code ch. 283A

                                 281 I.A.C. 58.

Cross Reference: 504.5 Student Fund Raising

                                 710   School Food Services

Original Adopted Date:  9-26-99                                      Last Revised Date:  8-12-19                                 Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Elementary and middle school students living more than two miles from their designated school attendance centers and high school students living more than three miles from their designated attendance centers are entitled to transportation to and from their attendance center at the expense of the school district.

Transportation of students who require special education services will generally be provided as for other students, when appropriate. Specialized transportation of a student to and from a special education instructional service is a function of that service and, therefore, an appropriate expenditure of special education instructional funds generated through the weighting plan.

Transportation of a student to and from a special education support service is a function of that service, and is specified in the individualized education program (IEP) or the individualized family service plan (IFSP). When the IEP or IFSP team determines that unique transportation arrangements are required and the arrangements are specified in the IEP or IFSP, the school district will provide one or more of the following transportation arrangements for instructional services and the AEA for support services:

• Transportation from the student's residence to the location of the special education and back to the student's residence, or child care placement for students below the age of six.

• Special assistance or adaptations in getting the student to and from and on and off the vehicle, en route to and from the special education.

• Reimbursement of the actual costs of transportation when by mutual agreement the parents provide transportation for the student to and from the special education.

The school district is not required to provide reimbursement to parents who elect to provide transportation in lieu of agency-provided transportation.

A student may be required, at the board's discretion, to meet a school vehicle without reimbursement up to three-fourths of a mile. The board may require the parent to transport their children up to two miles to connect with school bus vehicles at the expense of the school district when conditions deem it advisable. It is within the discretion of the board to determine such conditions. Parents of students who live where transportation by bus is impracticable or unavailable may be required to furnish transportation to and from the designated attendance center at the expense of the school district. Parents, who transport their children at the expense of the school district, are reimbursed at the rate per mile set by the state.

Transportation arrangements made by agreement with a neighboring school district will follow the terms of the agreement. Students, who choose to attend a school in a school district other than their resident school district, will provide transportation to and from the school at their own expense.

 Legal Reference:    20 U.S.C. §§ 1401, 1701 et seq.

                                 34 C.F.R. Pt. 300 et seq.

                                 Iowa Code §§ 256B.4; 285; 321

                                 281 I.A.C. 41.412.

Cross Reference:    501.16  Homeless Children and Youth

                                 507.8 Student Special Health Services

                                 603.3 Special Education

                                 711   Transportation

Original Adopted Date:  5-12-86                                        Last Revised Date:  11-10-08                            Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

Students utilizing school transportation shall conduct themselves in an orderly manner fitting to their age level and maturity with mutual respect and consideration for the rights of the school vehicle driver and the other passengers.  Students who fail to behave in an orderly manner shall be subject to disciplinary measures.

The driver shall have the authority to maintain order on the school vehicle.  It is the responsibility of the driver to report misconduct to the building administrator and transportation director.

The board supports the use of cameras on school buses used for transportation to and from school as well as for field trips, curricular or extracurricular events.  The cameras will be used to monitor student behavior and may be used as evidence in a student disciplinary proceeding.  The recordings are student records subject to school district confidentiality, board policy and administrative regulations.

The building principal, in conjunction with the transportation director, shall have the authority to suspend transportation privileges of the student or impose other appropriate discipline.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the building principals, Transportation Director, with the additional input from the bus drivers, to develop administrative regulations regarding student conduct and discipline when utilizing school district transportation.

 Legal Reference:     Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 285; 321

Cross Reference:     503   Student Discipline

                                 506   Student Records

Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                      Last Revised Date:  1-26-98                                Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The board in its discretion may provide school district transportation for extracurricular activities including, but not limited to, transporting student participants and other students to and from extracurricular events.

Students participating in extracurricular events, other than those held at the school district facilities, may be transported to the extracurricular event by school district transportation vehicles or by another means approved by the superintendent.  Students attending extracurricular events, other than those held at the school district facilities may be transported to the extracurricular event by school district transportation vehicles.

Students, who are provided transportation in school district transportation vehicles for extracurricular events, shall ride both to and from the event in the school vehicle unless arrangements have been made with the building principal prior to the event.  A student's parent may personally appear and request to transport the student home from a school-sponsored event in which the student traveled to the event on a school district transportation vehicle.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board annually as to whether the school district shall provide the transportation authorized in this policy.  In making the recommendation to the board, the superintendent shall consider the financial condition of the school district, the number of students who would qualify for such transportation, and other factors the board or superintendent deem relevant.

 

Legal Reference:    Iowa Code §§ 256B.4; 285.1-.4; 321

                                 281 I.A.C. 41.412.

Cross Reference:   504   Student Activities

                                   711   Transportation

Original Adopted Date:  4-11-83                                       Last Revised Date:  10-13-03                               Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The school district may use school vehicles for transportation to and from summer extracurricular activities.  The superintendent shall make a recommendation to the board annually regarding their use.

Transportation to and from the student's attendance center for summer school instructional programs is within the discretion of the board.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation regarding transportation of students in summer school instructional programs at the expense of the school district.  In making the recommendation to the board, the superintendent shall consider the financial condition of the school district, the number of students involved in summer school programs, and other factors deemed relevant by the board or the superintendent.

 

Legal Reference:      Iowa Code § 285.10

                                 281 I.A.C. 43.10, 412

Cross Reference:     603.2 Summer School Instruction

                                 711   Transportation

Original Adopted Date:  1-26-98                                      Last Revised Date:  10-13-03                             Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The board has sole discretion to determine the method to be utilized for transporting nonresident and nonpublic students.  Nonresident students paying tuition may be, and resident students attending a nonpublic school accredited by the State Department of Education, shall be transported on an established public school vehicle route as long as such transportation does not interfere with resident public students' transportation.  Nonresident and nonpublic school students shall obtain the permission of the superintendent prior to being transported by the school district.

Parents of resident students who provide transportation for their children attending a nonpublic school accredited by the Iowa Department of Education shall be reimbursed at the established state rate if bus service is not provided.  This reimbursement is paid only if the school district receives the funds from the state.  If less than the amount of funds necessary to fully reimburse parents of the nonpublic students is received by the school district, the funds shall be prorated.

The charge to the nonresident students is determined based on the students' pro rata share of the actual costs for transportation.  The parents of these students are billed for the student's share of the actual costs of transportation.  The billing is according to the schedule developed by the superintendent.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to determine the amount to be charged and report it to the board secretary for billing.

Continued transportation of nonresident and nonpublic school students on a public school vehicle route shall be subject to resident public school students' transportation needs.  The superintendent shall make a recommendation annually to the board regarding the method to be used.  In making a recommendation to the board, the superintendent shall consider the number of students to be transported, the capacity of the school vehicles, the financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the board or the superintendent.

Nonresident and nonpublic school students are subject to the same conduct regulations as resident public students as prescribed by board policy, and to other policies, rules, or regulations developed by the school district regarding transportation of students by the school district.

  

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code §§ 285.1-.2, .10, .16

Cross Reference:       711   Transportation

Original Adopted Date:  1-26-98                                      Last Revised Date:                                               Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

School district vehicles may be available to local nonprofit entities, which promote cultural, educational, civic, community, or recreational activities for transporting to and from non-school-sponsored activities within the state as long as the transportation does not interfere with or disrupt the education program of the school district and does not interfere with or delay the transportation of students.  The local nonprofit entity must pay the cost of using the school district vehicle as determined by the superintendent.  Prior to making the school district transportation vehicle available to the local nonprofit entity, the "school bus" signs shall be covered and the flashing warning lamps and the stop arm made inoperable.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations for use of school district transportation vehicles to transport students and others to school-sponsored events within the state and for application for, use of, and payment for using the school district transportation vehicles by local nonprofit entities for a non-school-sponsored activity.

 

Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 285.1(21), .10(9), (10)

                                 281 I.A.C. 41.412; 43.10.

Cross Reference:     711   Transportation

                                 900   Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

Original Adopted Date: 1-26-98                                       Last Revised Date:  5-8-23                                       Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The school district shall conduct school bus safe riding practices instruction and emergency safety drills at least two times per year for students who utilize school district transportation.

Each school bus vehicle shall have, in addition to the regular emergency safety drill, a plan for helping those students who require special assistance to safety during an emergency. This will include, but not be limited to, students with disabilities.

School district vehicle drivers are required to attend each safety drill.

Employees are responsible for instructing the proper techniques to be followed during an emergency, as well as safe riding practices.  It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

 Legal Reference:     Iowa Code §§ 279.8; 321

                                    281 I.A.C. 41.412; 43.40.

Cross Reference:     503 Student Discipline

                                    507 Student Health and Well-Being

                                    804.2 Warning Systems and Emergency Plans

Original Adopted Date:  11-24-97                                     Last Revised Date: 8-12-24                                 Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

School District may operate buses in times of reduced visibility when caused by fog, snow or other weather conditions.  School shall not be canceled solely due to temperature and wind chill.  Because weather conditions may vary around the school district and may change quickly, the best judgment possible shall be used with the information available.

The decision to postpone or cancel school shall be made as early as possible prior to the school day.  Information gathered from weather reports, road reports, transportation director, assistant transportation director and bus driver and any other information may be used to make a final decision.  If school is canceled or delayed, a notice will be given to appropriate media stations and notice will also be given using the School Messenger System.

When the weather deteriorates during the day after school has begun, information shall be gathered from various points in the district.  Should it be determined that students need to be sent home early, cancellation notices will be given to appropriate media stations and the School Messenger System.  Students will be returned to their regular drop-off sites unless weather conditions prevent it.  In that case, students shall be kept at or returned to school until they are picked up by the parents or conditions improve sufficient enough that buses can operate.

In the event that roads other than hard surfaced roads become impassable, emergency bus routes may be used.  In this case, parents shall be required to bring students to a designated pick-up point on a hard surfaced road.  When emergency routes will be used it will be announced by commercial radio and television and posted on the School Messenger System.  When emergency routes are used, they shall be used on both AM and PM routes for that day.

The final judgment as to when conditions are unsafe to operate buses or use emergency routes shall be made by the superintendent.  The superintendent shall be assisted by the transportation director.

In the event that buses cannot operate, school may be closed in all attendance centers.

 

Legal Reference:       Iowa Code § 279.8

Cross Reference:       601.2 School Day

 

Original Adopted Date:  11-10-08                                     Last Revised Date:                                              Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The board recognizes that it has a role in reducing environmental pollutants and in assisting students and others be free from pollutants that may impact their respiratory health.  Unnecessary vehicle idling emits pollutants and wastes fuel.  The board directs the superintendent, in conjunction with the Director of Transportation, to work on administrative regulations to implement this policy and reduce school vehicle idling time.

 

 Legal References:       Iowa Code §279.8 

Cross References:   403   Employee Health and Well-Being

                                 507   Student Health and Well-Being

                                 711   Transportation

Original Adopted Date:  4-10-95                                      Last Revised Date:  6-9-03                                    Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

 

School owned vehicles are for the convenience of the school district and are to be used for school purposes only. 

The transportation director will assign all vehicles and will maintain a log of their use.

 

 

 

 

 

Approved:         4-10-95

Reviewed:         11-12-01, 11-10-08, 2-24-14, 8-12-19

Revised:           6-11-01, 6-9-03

 

 

Original Adopted Date:  9-14-20                                      Last Revised Date:                                               Last Reviewed Date: 8-12-24

The district shall utilize three-point lap-shoulder belts on district school buses as required by state law.  All three-point lap-shoulder belts available on district buses will be used by passengers when the vehicle is in any non-stationary gear.

 Legal Reference:      281 I.A.C. 43.10(6)

Cross Reference:      711.7    School Bus Safety Instruction