402.3 Abuse of Students by School District Employees

PERSONNEL

402.3 - ABUSE OF STUDENTS BY SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES

Physical or sexual abuse of students, including but not limited to sexual or physical relationships, grooming behavior, and otherwise inappropriate relationships with students by employees will not be tolerated. The definition of employees for the purpose of this policy includes not only those who work for pay but also those who are volunteers of the school district under the direction and control of the school district. Employees found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including discharge.

The school district will respond promptly to allegations of abuse of students by school district employees by timely reporting to all relevant agencies as required by law. The processing of a complaint or allegation will be handled confidentially to the maximum extent possible. Employees are required to assist in the investigation when requested to provide information and to maintain the confidentiality of the reporting and investigation process. If the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services reports to the board of directors of the district that an allegation of abuse of a student has been made against a school employee, the district will place the employee on administrative leave until the resolution of the investigation. The employee will be prohibited from entering school property while on administrative leave.

The superintendent is responsible for drafting administrative regulations to implement this policy

Physical or sexual abuse of students, including inappropriate and intentional sexual behavior, by employees will not be tolerated. The definition of employees for the purpose of this policy includes not only those who work for pay but also those who are volunteers of the school district under the direction and control of the school district. Employees found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including discharge.

The school district will respond promptly to allegations of abuse of students by school district employees by investigating or arranging for the investigation of an allegation. The processing of a complaint or allegation will be handled confidentially to the maximum extent possible. Employees are required to assist in the investigation when requested to provide information and to maintain the confidentiality of the reporting and investigation process.

The school district has appointed a Level I investigator and alternate Level I investigator. The school district has also arranged for a trained, experienced professional to serve as the Level II investigator. The Level I investigator and alternate will be provided training in the conducting of an investigation at the expense of the school district. The names of the investigators are listed in the student handbook published annually in the local newspaper and posted in all school facilities.

The superintendent is responsible for drafting administrative regulations to implement this policy.

NOTE: NOTE: This policy is a reflection of current Iowa law regarding abuse of students by school district employees.

Legal Reference:
Iowa Code §§ 232.67, .70, .73, .75; 235A; 272A; 280.17; 709; 728.12(1).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 102; 103.
441 I.A.C. 155; 175.

I.C. Iowa Code
Description

Iowa Code § 232
Juvenile Justice

Iowa Code § 235A
Child Abuse

Iowa Code § 272A
Interstate Agreement of Qualification of Ed Personnel

Iowa Code § 280.17
Uniform School Requirements - Child abuse reporting

Iowa Code § 709
Sexual Abuse

Iowa Code § 728.12
Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

I.A.C. Iowa Administrative Code
Description

281 I.A.C. 102
Abuse of Students by School Employees Investigation Procedures