Code No. 801.1

BUILDINGS & SITES LONG RANGE PLANNING

As part of the board's long range plan for the school district's education program, the board shall include the needs for the education program in the area of buildings and sites. The long term needs for building and sites shall be discussed and determined by the board.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to provide information including, but not limited to, enrollment projections and education program requirements to the board.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code 280.3, .12, .14; 297

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised  4-12-2021

Code No. 801.2

BUILDINGS & SITES SURVEYS

The board may engage the services of consultants or other personnel to study the needs of the school district's buildings and sites in providing the education program. The results of these services will be considered in planning the education program and in making decisions about the improvement and acquisition of additional buildings and sites.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board regarding the need for such services and who should perform such services for the board.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code 208.3, .14; 297 

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 4-12-2019

 

Policy No. 801.3

EDUCATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS FOR BUILDINGS & SITES

Buildings and sites considered for purchase or construction by the board or currently owned by the school district and used for the education program must meet, or upon improvement be able to meet, the specifications set by the board.  The board will make this determination.

Prior to remodeling or other construction of buildings and sites, the board may appoint a committee of consultants, employees, citizens, or others to assist the board in developing the specifications for the new or improved buildings and sites.  These specifications will be consistent with the education program, and they will provide the architect with the information necessary to determine what is expected from the facility.  It is within the discretion of the board to determine whether a committee is appointed.

The education specifications will include, but not be limited to, the financial resources available for the project, the definition and character of classrooms, the functional use to be made of the rooms, description of specialized needs, and other pertinent information as the board deems necessary.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board regarding the specifications of buildings and sites.

Legal Reference:         

Cedar Rapids Community School District, Linn County v. City of Cedar Rapids, 252 Iowa 205, 106 N.W.2d 655 (1960).

Iowa Code  Ch 26; 280.3, .14; 297; 544A.

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 4-12-2019

Code No. 801.4

SITE ACQUISITION

Sites acquired by the board will meet or, upon improvement, be able to meet the specifications set out by the board prior to using the site for the education program.  The board may meet in closed session to discuss potential purchases of specific sites in compliance with applicable laws.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to assist the board and to make recommendations concerning the acquisition of sites.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code §§ 21.5(j); 297.

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 4-12-2021

 

Code No. 801.5

SELECTION OF AN ARCHITECT

The board shall have the authority to select the architect for construction requiring these services. The financial condition of the school district, the ability of the architect to meet the specifications of the board and the Iowa Department of Education (DOE) if necessary, the experience of the architect and other factors deemed relevant by the board will be considerations for selection of an architect.

It shall be the responsibility of the board to interview the architects and make a decision.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code chs. 297; 544A 

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 4-12-2021

 

Code No. 801.6

BIDS AND AWARDS FOR CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTS

The board supports economic development in Iowa, particularly in the school district community. Construction contracts will be made in the school district community or in Iowa from Iowa-based companies if the bids submitted are comparable in quality and can be received without additional cost in comparison to those submitted by other bidders. The board will have the authority to approve or reject construction contracts.

Public, competitive sealed bids are required for construction projects, including renovation and repair, with a cost exceeding the statutory minimums required by law. The public, competitive sealed bid requirement is waived in the case of emergency repairs when the repairs are necessary to prevent the closing of a school. The AEA administrator will certify that the emergency repairs are necessary to prevent the closing of a school. The superintendent will comply with the competitive quote process for those projects subject to the competitive quote law. The superintendent will determine the process for obtaining quotes for projects below the competitive quote limit.

The award of construction contracts will, generally, be made to the lowest responsible bidder. The board, in its discretion, after considering factors relating to the construction, including, but not limited to, the cost of the construction, availability of service and/or repair, completion date, and any other factors deemed relevant by the board, may choose a bid other than the lowest bid. The board will have the right to reject any and all bids, or any part thereof, and to enter into the contract or contracts deemed to be in the best interests of the school district.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation and the reason for it to the board for construction contract bids. The superintendent will recommend, to the board, which bid to accept.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code Ch 26; 72; 73; 297.7-8 

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 10-15-01     Revised 4-12-2021

Code No. 801.7

FINANCING SITES AND CONSTRUCTION

Prior to the approval of a construction contract, except emergency construction, the board shall review methods for financing the project. The board may use the means it deems necessary to pay for the purchase of sites and construction. In determining the means of financing for these purposes, the board shall consider the financial condition of the school district and the uses allowed for the monies of the school district.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to analyze the various methods of financing for the purchase of sites and construction and make a recommendation to the board.

Legal Reference:          

Harney v. Clear Creek Community School District, 261 Iowa 315, 154 N.W. 2d 88 (1967)

Liggett v. Abbott, 192 Iowa 742, 185 N.W. 567 (1921)

Iowa Code 73A; 74; 74A; 75; 278.1; 296; 297; 298 

1974   Op. Att'y Gen. 598

1972   Op. Att'y Gen 295

1938   Op. Att'y Gen 167

1936   Op. Att'y Gen 423

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 4-12-2021

Code No. 801.8

SUPERVISION OF CONSTRUCTION

Construction authorized by the board must be supervised for proper execution. The board will tour the completed construction area before allowing final payment on the project.

It is the responsibility of the architect to supervise construction projects of the school district as they are completed. The superintendent shall be responsible for providing the board with progress reports at each meeting until the construction is completed and shall work closely with the architect.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code  279.8

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 4-12-2021

Code No. 802.1

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE

The school district buildings and sites, including the grounds, buildings and equipment, will be kept clean and in good repair. Employees should notify the building principal and Supervisor of maintence and Custoial by submitting a online form found on the website when something is in need of repair or removal, including graffiti.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to maintain the school district buildings and sites. As part of this responsibility, a maintenance schedule is created and adhered to in compliance with this policy.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code 279.8; 280.3, .14 

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 4-12-2021

Code No 802.2

REQUESTS FOR IMPROVEMENTS

Generally, except for emergency situations, requests for improvements or repairs shall be made to the superintendent by building principals and maintenance supervisor. Requirements for requests outlined in the maintenance schedule shall be followed.

Minor improvements, not exceeding a cost of $2,500.00, may be approved by the superintendent. Improvements exceeding $2,500.00 must be approved by the Board. Routine maintenance and repairs outlined in the maintenance schedule shall be followed.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code 279.8; 280.3, .14

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 1-21-09       Revised  4-12-2021

Code No. 802.3

EMERGENCY REPAIRS

In the event of an emergency requiring repairs, in excess of the state limit, to a school district facility are necessary to correct or control the situation and to prevent the closing of school, the provisions relating to bidding will not apply.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to obtain certification from the area education agency administrator stating such repairs in excess of the state limit were necessary to prevent the closing of school.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to notify the board as soon as possible considering the circumstances of the emergency.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code 26.3,280.3, .14; 297.8 

Approved  9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 4-12-2021

Code 802.4

CAPITAL ASSETS

The school district will establish and maintain a capital assets management system for reporting capitalized assets owned or under the jurisdiction of the school district in its financial reports in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) as required or modified by law; to improve the school district's oversight of capital asset6s by assigning and recording them to specific facilities and programs and to provide for proof of loss of capital assets for insurance purposes.

Capital assets, including tangible and intangible assets, are reported in the government-wide financial statements (i.e. governmental activities and business type activities) and the proprietary fund financial statements. Capital assets reported include school district buildings and sites, construction in progress, improvements other than buildings and sites, land and machinery and equipment. Capital assets reported in the financial reports will include individual capital assets with an historical cost equal to or greater than $5,000, except for intangible right to use lease assests. The Federal regulations governing school lunch programs require capital assets attributable to the school lunch program with a historical cost of equal to or greater than $5,000 be capitalized. Additionally, capital assets are depreciated over the useful life of each capital asset.

All intangible assets (except for right to use lease assests) with a purchase price equal to or greater than $5,000 with useful life of two or more years, are included in the intangible asset inventory for capitalization purposes. Such assets are recorded at actual historical cost and amortized over the designated useful lifetime applying a straight-line method of depreciation. If there are no legal, contractual, regulatory, technological or other factors that limit the useful life of the asset, then the intangible asset needs to be considered to have an indefinite useful life and no amortization should be recorded.

If an intangible asset that meets the threshold criteria is fully amortized, the asset must be reported at the historical cost and the applicable accumulated amortization must also be reported. It is not appropriate to "net" the capital asset and amortization to avoid reporting. For internally generated intangible assets, outlays incurred by the government's personnel, or by a third-party contractor on behalf of the government, and for development of internally generated intangible assets should be capitalized.

The district recognizes the importance of classifying leases of intangible assets as assets or liabilities in financial statements.  When operating as a lessor, the district will recognize a lease liability and an intangible right-to-use lease asset.  When operating as a lessee, the district will recognize a lease receivable and a deferred inflow of resources consistent with the requirements established in GASB 87. 

The District recognizes a lease liability and an intangible right-to-use lease asset with an initial value of ($ threshold amount) or more. At the commencement of a lease, the District initially measures the lease liability at the present value of payments expected to be made during the lease term.  Subsequently, the lease liability is reduced by the principal portion of lease payments made.  The lease asset is initially measured as the initial amount of the lease liability, adjusted for lease payments made at or before the lease commencement date plus certain initial direct costs to place the asset in service.  The lease asset is then amortized on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease.

The capital assets management system must be updated monthly to account for the addition/acquisition, disposal, relocation/transfer of capital assets. It is the responsibility of the superintendent to count and reconcile the capital assets with capital assets management system on June 30 each year.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations implementing this policy. It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent to educate employees about this policy and its supporting administrative regulations.

Legal Reference:

Iowa Code 257.31(4); 279.8; 297.22-25; 298A 

Approved 1-3-11         Reviewed  2-15-2021                   Revised 7-25-2022

Policy No. 802.4R1

CAPITAL ASSETS REGULATION

A.    Capital Assets Management System

        The superintendent, and/or other designated staff, shall:

             1)    Conduct the capital assets physical count;

             2)    Develop the capital assets listing;

             3)    Tag capital assets included in the capital assets management system with a bar code identification number; 

             4)    Make a recommendation of a computer software program for managing the capital assets management system;

             5)    Enter the necessary data into the capital assets management system and compile the appropriate reports;

             6)    Develop forms and procedures for maintaining the integrity of the capital assets management system; and,

             7)    Maintain responsibility for an accurate capital assets management system. 

B.     Determining historical cost

1. The historical cost of a capital asset is based on the actual costs expended in making the capital assets serviceable.       
2. Gifts of capital assets are valued at the estimated fair market value at the addition/acquisition date. 
3. Capital assets purchased under a capital lease are valued at historical cost of their net present value of the minimum lease payments on the addition/acquisition date.
4. The historical cost of capital assets must include capitalized interest.

C.     Annual capital assets listing reconciliation

1. The superintendent, and/or other designated staff, in conjunction with the capital assets management team, will conduct an annual capital assets physical count to develop the annual capital assets listing in a manner similar to the initial capital assets listing process in B above.  At least every three years, someone other than the person in custody of the capital assets in the building/department/room will perform the capital assets physical count for the building/department/room.
2. Upon completion of the annual capital assets listing, the capital assets listing is reconciled to the capital assets management system data base.
3. Capital assets found to have been excluded from the data base are added to the capital assets management system.  The capital assets management system process should be reviewed to prevent future incidents of excluding a capital asset.
4. Capital assets unaccounted for are reported to the superintendent who contacts the supervisor of and the individual in charge/control/custody of the capital asset.  The individual in charge/control/custody of the capital asset has thirty days to account for the capital asset. 
5. Capital assets unaccounted for after thirty days are reported to the superintendent for appropriate action and documentation.  "Appropriate action" may include discipline, up to and including discharge, and may require the employee/person in charge/control/custody of the capital asset to replace the asset.
6. The superintendent is responsible for documenting the reasons each asset was not reconciled to the capital assets management system.                                                             

 D.     Addition/acquisition of capital assets. 

      1.     The school district's purchasing policy and administrative regulations must be followed when acquiring capital assets.  The school district's policy and administrative regulations must be followed for receiving a gift of capital assets.  

      2.     The capital assets addition/acquisition documentation must be completed for each additional capital assets with an addition/acquisition cost of equal to or greater than ($ capitalization threshold).  The following information should be collected, if applicable:

             a.     Name of location-building/department/room;

             b.     Location-building/department/room code;

             c.     Balance sheet accounting/class code;

             d.     Government or BTA program;

             e.     Addition/acquisition date;

              f.     Check/purchase order number or gift;

             g.     Bar code identification number assigned to and placed on the capital asset;

             h.     Serial/model number;                                                                                                     

              i.     Cost-historical;

              j.     Fair market value on acquisition date (donated assets only);

             k.     Estimated useful life;

              l.     Vendor;

            m.     Purchasing fund and function;

             n.     Description of capital asset;

             o.     Department/person charged with custody,

             p.     Method of addition/acquisition-purchase, trade, gift etc.,

             q.     Quantity;

              r.     Replacement cost;

              s.     Addition/acquisition authorization; and,

              t.     Function for depreciation.

        3.   Capital assets acquired in a month must be entered into the capital assets management system in the same month.

        4.    The actual costs of construction in progress, other than infrastructure, is entered into the capital assets management system in the month in which costs are incurred until the total cost of addition/acquisition is entered.  Upon completion of construction, the total costs accumulated over the period of construction are reclassified to buildings.

        5.   Capital assets acquired in a month must be entered into the capital assets management system in the same month.

E.     Relocation/transfer of machinery and equipment capital assets.

        1.   A capital assets relocation/transfer documentation must be completed prior to removing machinery and equipment capital assets from their current location.  The following information must be collected:

                a.     Relocation/transfer date;

                b.     Quantity;

                c.     Bar code identification number;

                d.     Current location-building/department/room code;

                e.     Name of current location-building/department/room;

                f.      New location-building/department/room code;

  g.     Name of new location-building/department/room;

        h.     Date placed at new location-building/department/room;

                i.      Department/person charged with custody; and

        j.      Relocation/transfer authorization.

        2.   Capital assets relocated/transferred in a month must be entered into the capital assets management system in the same month

F.     Disposal of capital assets

        1.   A Capital Assets disposal documentation must be completed prior to disposing of real property.  The following information must be collected:

                a.     Disposal date;

        b.     Quantity;

        c.     Bar code tag identification number;

                d.     Legal description,

                e.     Location/Address;

                f.      Purchaser;

                g.     Disposal methods for real property trade, sale, stolen, etc.; and,

                h.     Disposal authorization.

        2.   Capital assets disposed of in a month must be entered into the capital assets management system in the same month.

        3.   When assets are sold or disposed of, it is necessary to calculate and report a gain or loss in the statement of activities.  The gain/loss is calculated by subtracting the net book value (historical cost less any accumulated amortization) from the net amount realized on the sale or disposal.

G.    Lost, damaged or stolen capital assets.

        1.   A Lost, Damaged or Stolen Capital Assets Report must be completed when a capital asset has been lost, damaged or stolen. The following information must be collected:

              a.     Date of loss, damage or theft;

              b.     Employee/person discovering;

              c.     Quantity;

              d.     Description of capital asset;

              e.     Bar code tag identification number;

              f.     Location-building/department/room;

              g.     Description of loss, damage, etc.;

              h.     Filing of police report-yes or no;

              i.      Filing of insurance report-yes or no;

              j.      Sent for repair-yes or no;

              k.     Date returned from repair;

              l.      Date returned to location-building/department/room;

              m.    Department/person charged with custody; and,

              n.     Authorization.                                                              

      2.     Capital assets damaged, lost or stolen in a month must be entered into the capital assets management system in the same month.       

H.    Capital assets reports

      1.     Annual reports for June 30 each year.                                

              a.     Capital assets listing including the following items:

                  1)   Balance sheet accounting/class code;

                  2)   Purchasing fund, function and depreciation function;

                  3)   Bar code tag identification number;

                  4)   Description of the capital asset;

                  5)   Historical cost or other;

                  6)   Location;

                  7)   Current year depreciation/expense; and,

                  8)   Accumulated depreciation/amortization.

               b.     Capital assets listing by location/building;

               c.     Capital assets listing by department/employee/person charged with custody; and,

               d.     Capital assets listing by replacement cost. 

Approved 1-3-2011     Reviewed   2-15-2021                Revised 4-12-2021

Code No. 802.4R2

CAPITAL ASSETS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM DEFINITIONS

Back trending/standard costing - an estimate of the historical original cost using a known average installed cost for like units as of the estimated addition/ acquisition date. This cost is only applied to the capital assets initially counted upon implementation of the capital assets management system when the historical original cost cannot be determined. It is inappropriate to apply the back trending/standard costing method to any capital assets acquired after the assets management system implementation date.

Balance sheet accounting/class codes - the codes set out for assets in the Iowa Department of Education Uniform Accounting Manual. They are: 200-capital assets; 211-land and land improvements; 22 I-site improvements; 222­accumulated depreciation on site improvements; 231-buildings and building improvements; 232-accumulated depreciation on buildings and building improvements; 241-machinery and equipment; 242-accumulated depreciation on machinery and equipment, 251-works of art and historical treasures; 252-accumulated depreciation on works of art and historical treasures, 261-infrastructure, 262-accumulated depreciation on infrastructure, and 271-construction m progress.

Book value - the value of capital assets on the records of the school district, which can be the cost or, the cost less the appropriate allowances, such as depreciation.

Buildings and building improvements - a capital assets account reflecting the addition/acquisition cost of permanent structures owned or held by a government and the improvements thereon.

Business-type activities - one of two classes of activities reported in the government-wide financial statements. Business-type activities are financed in the whole or in part by fees charged to external parties for goods or services. These activities are usually reported in enterprise funds.

Capital expenditures/expenses - expenditures/expenses resulting in the addition/acquisition of or addition/acquisition to the school district's capital assets.

Capital assets - Capital assets with a value of equal to or greater than $5000 based on the historical cost include: long-lived assets obtained or controlled as a result of past transactions, events or circumstances. Capital assets include buildings, construction in progress, improvements other than facilities, land, machinery and equipment, and intangible assets.

Capitalization policy - the criteria used by the school district to determine which capital assets will be reported as capital assets on the school district's financial statements and records

Capitalization threshold - The dollar value at which a government elects to capitalize tangible or intangible assets that are used in operations and that have initial useful lives extending beyond a single reporting period.

Capitalized interest - interest accrued and reported as part of the cost of the capital assets during the construction phase of a capital project. The construction phase extends from the initiation of pre-construction activities until the time the asset is placed in service.

Construction in progress -buildings in the process of being constructed other than infrastructure.

Cost - the amount of money or other consideration exchanged for goods or services.

Depreciation/Amortization - expiration in the service life of capital assets, other than wasting assets, attributable to wear and tear, deterioration, action of the physical elements, inadequacy and obsolescence. In accounting for depreciation/amortization, the cost of a capital asset, less any salvage value, is prorated over the estimated service life of such an asset, and each period is charged with a portion of such cost.

Fixtures - attachments to buildings that are not intended to be removed and cannot be removed without damage to the buildings. Those fixtures with a useful life presumed to be as long as that of the building itself are considered a part of the building. Other fixtures are classified as machinery and equipment.

General capital assets - capital assets that are not capital assets of any fund, but of the governmental unit as a whole. Most often these capital assets arise from the expenditure of the financial resources of governmental funds.

General capital assets account group (GFAAG) - a self-balancing group of accounts established to account for capital assets of the school district, not accounted for through specific proprietary funds.

Government activities - activities generally financed through taxes, intergovernmental revenues, and other non­exchange revenues. These activities are usually reported in governmental funds and internal service funds.

Government-wide financial statements - Financial statements that incorporate all of a government's governmental and business-type activities, as well as its nonfiduciary component units. There are two basic government-wide financial statements the statement of net assets and the statement of activities. Both basic government-wide financial statements are presented using the economic resources measurement focus and the accrual basis of accounting.

Historical (acquisition) cost - the actual costs expended to place a capital asset into service. For land and buildings, costs such as legal fees, recording fees, surveying fees, architect fees and similar fees are included in the historical cost. For machinery and equipment, costs such as freight and installation fees and similar fees are included in the historical cost.

Improvements - In addition made to, or change made in, a capital asset, other than maintenance, to prolong its life or to increase the efficiency or capacity. The cost of the addition or change is added to the book value of the asset.

Improvements other than buildings - attachments or annexation to land that are intended to remain so attached or annexed, such as sidewalks, trees, drives, tunnels, drains and sewers. Sidewalks, curbing, sewers and highways are sometimes referred to as "betterments," but the term "improvements" is preferred.

Infrastructure - long-lived capital assets that normally are stationary in nature and normally can be preserved for a significantly greater number of years than most capital assets. Examples of infrastructure assets include; roads, bridges, tunnels, drainage systems, tater and sewer systems, dams, and lighting systems.

Investment in general capital assets - an account in the GF AAG representing the school district's investment in general capital assets. The balance in this account generally is subdivided according to the source of the monies that finance the capital assets addition/acquisition, such as general fund revenues and special assessments.

Land and buildings - real property owned by the school district.

Machinery and equipment - capital assets which maintain their identity when removed from their location and are not changed materially or consumed immediately (e.g., within one year) by use. Machinery and equipment are often divided into specific categories such as: transportation machinery and equipment which includes school buses and school district owned automobiles, trucks and vans; other motor machinery and equipment which includes lawn maintenance machinery and equipment, tractors, motorized carts, maintenance machinery and equipment, etc.; other machinery and equipment which includes furniture and machinery and equipment contained in the buildings whose original cost is equal to or greater than $5000 and capital assets under capital leases and capital assets being acquired under a lease/purchase agreement.

Proprietary funds - Funds that focus on the determination of operating income, changes in net assets (or cost recovery), financial position, and cash flows. There are two different types of proprietary funds: enterprise funds and internal service funds.

Replacement cost - the amount of cash or other consideration required today to obtain the same capital assets or its equivalent.

Approved 1-3-2011     Reviewed  2-15-2021        Revised  4-12-2021

Code No. 802.5

BUILDINGS & SITES ADAPTATION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

The board recognizes the need for access to its buildings and sites by persons with disabilities. School district building sand sites currently in use will be altered to be accessible to persons with disabilities unless the alteration would cause an undue hardship for the school district. Renovated and new buildings and sites will be accessible to persons with disabilities.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, upon board approval, to take the necessary action to ensure school district buildings and sites are accessible to persons with disabilities.

Legal Reference:          

29 U.S.C. $$ 621-634 

42 U.S.C. $$ 12101 et seq. 

Iowa Code chs. 104A; 216 

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 4-12-2021

Code No. 802.6

PARKING

Driving to and parking at the employee's designated attendance center is a privilege. Employees shall park only in the areas designated as employee parking and abide by school district parking regulations.

Visitors to the school district shall park in the parking area designated for visitor parking. Students shall abide by board policies dealing with the use of bicycles and motor vehicles. Parking areas designated for persons with disabilities may be used only by persons with disabilities.

Failure to comply with this policy or school district regulations will be reason for revocation of school district parking privileges.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code  11.18; 104A.7; 279.8; 321

661 I.A.C. 18.1-.8.

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 4-12-2021

 

Code No. 802.7

VANDALISM

The board believes everyone should treat school district buildings and sites and property with respect for the benefit of the education program. Users of school district property shall treat it with care. Employees discovering vandalism should report it to the building principal as soon as possible.

Persons suspected, found or proven to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school district property may be subject to discipline by the school district, if the person is under the jurisdiction of the school district, and may be reported to local law enforcement officials. Persons who are not under the jurisdiction of the school district and who are suspected, found or proved to have destroyed otherwise harmed school district property shall be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code 279.8 

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 1-21-09       Revised 4-12-2021

Code No. 802.8

ENERGY CONSERVATION

In concert with the board's goal to utilize public funds in an effective and efficient manner, employees and students shall practice energy conservation methods when utilizing the school district's buildings and sites. These methods include, but are not limited to, turning off lights and equipment when not in use, reducing the temperature of the facility, particularly when it is not in use, and keeping windows and doors properly closed or open, depending on the weather.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop guidelines for employees and students for energy conservation. It shall be the responsibility of employees and students to abide by these guidelines.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code 279-44; 473.19-.20

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised  4-12-2021

Code No. 802.9

CONTRACT FOR MAINTENANCE SERVICES

The board may contract for custodial and other maintenance services for the school district buildings and sites. The superintendent is authorized to contract for such services. Except in the case of emergency, contract shall be submitted to the board for approval.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to consider the financial condition of the school district and other factors deemed relevant by the superintendent in making such contracts.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code 279.8 

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised  4-12-2021

Code No. 803.1

DISPOSITION OF OBSOLETE EQUIPMENT

School property, such as equipment, furnishings, or supplies (hereinafter equipment), will be disposed of when it is determined to be of no further use to the school district.  It is the objective of the school district in disposing of the equipment to achieve the best available price or most economical disposal.

Obsolete equipment having a value of less than $5,000 will be sold or disposed of in a manner determined by the board.  (Public Sale)  However, the sale of equipment, furnishings or supplies disposed of in this manner will be published in a newspaper of general circulation.  The publication of the sale or disposition will be published with at least one insertion each week for two consecutive weeks.  Any other disposition other than a sale will be published once in may be done in any other manner so with only one insertion in same newspaper.

A public hearing will be held regarding the disposal of the equipment with a value of $5,000 or more prior to the board's final decision.  The board will adopt a resolution announcing the proposed sale and will publish notice of the time and place of the public hearing and the description of the property will be in the resolution.  Notice of the public hearing will be published at least once, but not less than 10 days and not more than 20 days, prior to the hearing date.  Upon completion of the public hearing, the board may dispose of the equipment.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board regarding the method for disposing of equipment of no further use to the school district.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code §§ 24.9; 297.22-.25 

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised   4-12-2021

Code No. 803.2

LEASE SALE OR DISPOSAL OF SCHOOL DISTRICT BUILDINGS AND SITES

Decisions regarding the lease, sale, or disposal of school district real property are made by the board. In making its decision the board will consider the needs of the education program and the efficient use of public funds.

Prior to the board's final decision regarding real property with a value of $5,000 or more, a public hearing will be held. The board will adopt a resolution announcing the proposed sale which will contain notice of the time and place of the public hearing and the description of the property or locally known address. Notice of the time and place of the public hearing will be published at least once, but not less than 10 days and not more than 20 days, prior to the hearing date. Upon completion of the public hearing, the board may dispose of the property.

If the real property contains less than two acres, is located outside of a city, is not adjacent to a city and was previously used as a schoolhouse site, the property may revert to the owner of the tract from whom the property was taken following the procedures set forth in IOWA CODE §§ 297.15-.25.

In the case of a sale or lease of school district real property not being used for the education program, unless otherwise exempted, advertisements for bids will be taken. If the bids received by the board are deemed inadequate, the board may decline to sell or lease the property and re-advertise.

In the case of the razing of a school district facility, in an amount in excess of the statutory minimum required by law, the board will advertise and take bids for the purpose of awarding the contract for the project.

The superintendent is responsible for coordinating the action necessary for the board to accomplish the lease, sale, or disposal of school district real property, including student-constructed buildings. It will also be the responsibility of the superintendent to make a recommendation to the board regarding the use of school district real property not being utilized for the education program.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code §§ 297.15-.25

Approved 9-13-1993   Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 5-17-2021

Code No. 804.1

FACILITIES INSPECTIONS

A program for annual inspection, in addition to those conducted by authorized agencies, of the equipment, facilities, and grounds shall be conducted as part of the maintenance schedule for school district buildings and sites. The results of this inspection shall be reported to the board at its annual meeting. Further, the board shall carry out its own inspection of the school district buildings and sites annually.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code $ 279.8

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 9-19-2022    Revised 5-17-2021

Code No. 804.2

DISTRICT EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLANS

The safety and security of the school community is paramount to the Riverside Community School District.  While there is no absolute guarantee of safety, it is the goal of the district to encourage and support a physically secure learning and working environment within its buildings.  The district shall work in conjunction with community stakeholders including local emergency management coordinators and local law enforcement agencies to create emergency operations plans for all district buildings and school buildings where students are educated.

The superintendent shall be responsible for the development, review and implementation of the district emergency operations plan.  The plan shall include procedures for transmitting alerts regarding emergency situations to school personnel, students, and employers for non-school employees whose presence is regularly required in the school building.  The emergency operations plan shall be updated and reviewed annually by the Board and shall address responses to natural disasters, active shooter scenarios and other emergencies as determined by the district.  The emergency operations plans are confidential and shall not be subject to disclosure under Iowa Code Chapter 22.  However, the district shall publish procedures for students, school personnel, parents, and family members to report possible safety threats on school grounds and at school activities. 

The administration shall hold annual emergency operations drills at each district building covered by an emergency operations plan in accordance with law.  The district shall determine which school personnel shall participate and whether local law enforcement and students participate in annual drills.  

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code 280.30

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 9-19-2022   Revised 5-17-2021

 

Code No. 804.3

FIRST AID/CPR/AED/STOP THE BLEED KITS

The board encourages employees to be trained in emergency first aid, CPR, AED and Stop The Bleed Kits. The school district may provide a program annually for those employees who wish to learn or update emergency training.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code $ 279.8; 613.17

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 5-17-2021

Code No. 804.4

FACILITIES SECURITY

To protect the school district buildings and sites and equipment, the facilities shall be locked when school is not in session. When school activities or public activities are held in the school district facilities, only the main entrance doors, as determined by the superintendent and the building principals, shall be unlocked for access to the school district facilities.

It is the responsibility of employees and users of the school district facilities to abide by the policy.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code $$ 279.8; 280.3, .14

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 9-19-2022       Revised  5-17-2021

 

Code No. 804.5

EMPLOYEE SAFETY INSERVICE

The administration and custodians may conduct professional learning for personnel to review safety practices and accident prevention.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code $$ 279.8; 280.3; .14 

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 9-19-2022      Revised 5-17-2021

Code No. 804.6

BOMB THREATS

As soon as a bomb threat is reported to the administration, the school district will evaluate the situation immediately. The appropriate school district, city, or county officials will make a thorough search.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent to file a report or keep a report of each incident for the school district records.

Legal Reference:          

Iowa Code 279.8 

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 12-5-13       Revised 5-17-2021

Code No. 804.7

ASBESTOS CONTAINING MATERIAL

Friable and non-friable asbestos containing materials will be maintained in good condition and appropriate precautions will be followed when the material is disturbed. If there is a need to replace asbestos it will be replaced with non­asbestos containing materials. Each school building will maintain a copy of the asbestos management plan.

The school district will annually notify, appoint and train appropriate personnel as necessary.

Legal Reference:          

20 U.S.C.  3601 et seq. 

40 C.F.R. Pt. 763.84 

Iowa Code  279.52-.54

Approved 9-13-93       Reviewed 1-21-09       Revised 5-17-2021

Code No. 804.8

STOCK PERSCRIPTION MEDICATION SUPPLY

The Riverside Community School District seeks to provide a safe environment for students, staff, and visitors who are at risk of potentially life-threatening incidents including severe allergic reactions, respiratory distress and opioid overdose. Therefore, it is the policy of the district to annually obtain a prescription for epinephrine auto-injectors, bronchodilator canisters and spacers and opioid antagonist from a licensed health care professional, in the name of the school district, for administration by a school nurse or personnel trained and authorized to administer to a student or individual who may be experiencing an anaphylactic reaction, respiratory distress or acute opioid overdose. 

Procurement and maintenance of supply: The district shall stock a minimum of the following for each attendance center:

• One pediatric dose and one adult dose epinephrine auto-injector; 
• One pediatric dose and one adult dose bronchodilator canister or spacer;
• One dose of opioid antagonist. 

The supply of such medication shall be maintained in a secure, dark, temperature-controlled location in each school building. 

[Insert employee responsible] shall routinely check stock of medication and document in a log monthly: 

• The expiration date; 
• Any visualized particles; or 
• Color change. 

The employee shall be responsible for ensuring the district replaces, as soon as reasonably possible, any logged epinephrine auto-injector that is used, close to expiration, or discolored or has particles visible in the liquid. 

Training: A school nurse or personnel trained and authorized may provide or administer any of the medication listed in this policy from a school supply to a student or individual if the authorized personnel or school nurse reasonably and in good faith believes the student or individual is having an anaphylactic reaction, respiratory distress and opioid overdose. Training to obtain a signed certificate to become personnel authorized to administer an epinephrine auto-injector, bronchodilator canisters and spacers and opioid antagonist shall consist of the requirements established by law. 

Authorized personnel will be required to provide a procedural skills demonstration to the school nurse demonstrating competency in the administration of stock epinephrine auto-injectors, bronchodilator canisters or spacers and opioid antagonists to retain authorization to administer these medications if the following occur: 

• Failure to administer an epinephrine auto-injectorbronchodilator canister or spacer or opioid antagonist to a student or individual by proper route, failure to administer the correct dosage, or failure to administer an epinephrine auto-injector , bronchodilator canister or spacer and opioid antagonist according to generally accepted standards of practice  (“medication error”); or 
• Accidental injection of an epinephrine auto-injector into a digit of the authorized personnel administering the medication (“medication incident”).  

Reporting: The district will contact emergency medical services (911) immediately after a stock epinephrine auto-injector, bronchodilator canister or spacer or opioid antagonist is administered to a student or individual. The school nurse or authorized personnel will remain with the student or individual until emergency medical services arrive. 

Within 48 hours, the district will report to the Iowa Department of Education: 

• Each medication incident with the administration of stock epinephrine, bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist; 
• Each medication error with the administration of stock epinephrine, bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist; or 
• The administration of a stock epinephrine auto-injector, bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist. 

As provided by law, the district, board, authorized personnel or school nurse, and the prescriber shall not be liable for any injury arising from the provision, administration, failure to administer, or assistance in the administration of an epinephrine auto-injector, bronchodilator canister or spacer, or opioid antagonist provided they acted reasonably and in good faith. 

The superintendent may develop an administrative process to implement this policy. 
Legal Reference:

Iowa Code §§ 135.185; 190; 279.8.

281 I.A.C. 14.3.

Approved  5-17-2021           Reviewed   4-12-2021                    Revised    7-25-2022