Adoption Date: 06/22/2021

History: 02/22/22 (reviewed), 12/13/22 (reviewed), 12/12/23 (reviewed), 8/27/24 (updated), 2/11/25 (reviewed), 8/12/25 (updated), 12/9/25 (reviewed)

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 or designee is responsible for drafting administrative regulations to implement this policy.

Policy References:

Legal reference:

Iowa Code §§ 232.67, .70, .73, .75; 235A; 256.160; 272A; 280.17; 709; 728.12(1).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 102; 103.
441 I.A.C. 155; 175.

Cross Reference: 

104           Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy
104.R1     Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy Investigation Procedures
104.E1     Complaint Form
104.E2     Witness Disclosure Form
104.E3     Disposition of Complaint Form
401.6       Limitations to Employment References
402.2       Child Abuse Reporting
503.5       Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint and Prone Restraint
503.6        Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students
503.6R1    Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students - Regulation
503.6E1    Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students - Documentation Form
503.6E2    Debriefing Letter to Guardian of student Involved in an Occurrence Where Physical Restraint or Seclusion was Used
503.6E3    Debriefing Meeting Document