ABUSE OF STUDENTS BY SCHOOL DISTRICT EMPLOYEES
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 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.
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Legal Reference: Iowa Code §§ 232.67, .70, .73, .75; 235A; 272A; 280.17; 709; 728.12(1) (2013).
281 I.A.C. 12.3(6), 102; 103.
441 I.A.C. 155; 175.
1980 Op. Att'y Gen. 275.
Cross Reference: 402.2 Child Abuse Reporting
403.5 Harassment
503.5 Corporal Punishment
Approved: February 8, 2006
Last Reviewed: February 8, 2023
Last Revised: September 2025