"Board of Education Policies and Regulations," Little Rock School District

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::: oza :..J u.., -::> er: ::a m , SECTION A: FOUNDATIONS AND BASIC COMMITMENTS Section A of the Little Rock School District policy manual contains policies, regulations, and exhibits on the District's legal role in providing public education and the basic principles underlying school board governance. These policies provide a setting for all of the school board's other policies and regulations. AA AB AC ACA ACB ACBB ACBE ACC ACD ACE ACF ACG ACG-R1 ACG-R2 ACG-R3 ACH AD ADA ADB ADC ADD AE School District Legal Status The People and Their School District Nondiscrimination Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Gender (Sex) Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Ethnicity and Race Equitable Student Assignment Equitable Maintenance and Repair of Facilities Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Religion Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap/Disability Interpersonal/Hu man Relations Compliance with the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan, Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, ADA Section 504, or Other Similar Requirements Compliance with the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan Complaint Resolution for the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan, Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, ADA, Section 504, or Other Similar Requirements Student/Parent/Guardian Complaint Procedure Anti-Harassment Policy Little Rock School District Mission Statement Little Rock School District Objectives Drug-Free Schools Tobacco-Free Schools Safe Schools Commitment to Accomplishment SECTION A: FOUNDATIONS AND BASIC COMMITMENTS Section A of the Little Rock School District policy manual contains policies, regulations, and exhibits on the District's legal role in providing public education and the basic principles underlying school board governance. These policies provide a setting for all of the school board's other policies and regulations. AA AB AC ACA ACB ACBB ACBE ACC ACD ACE ACF ACG ACG-R1 ACG-R2 ACG-R3 AD ADA ADB ADC ADD AE School District Legal Status The People and Their School District Nondiscrimination Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Gender (Sex) Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Ethnicity and Race Equitable Student Assignment Equitable Maintenance and Repair of Facilities Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Religion Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap/Disability Interpersonal/Human Relations Compliance with the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan, Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, ADA Section 504, or Other Similar Requirements Compliance with the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan Complaint Resolution for the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan, Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, ADA, Section 504, or Other Similar Requirements Student/Parent/Guardian Complaint Procedure Little Rock School District Mission Statement Little Rock School District Objectives Drug-Free Schools Tobacco-Free Schools Safe Schools Commitment to Accomplishment LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: AA SCHOOL U1STRICTLEGAL STATUS The corporate name of this school district shall be Little Rock School District of Pulaski County, Arkansas, as provided by the law of the State of Arkansas . Adopted: September 24, 1998 Legal References: Statute 80-401, 80-402, 80-403 School Law of Arkansas LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: AB THE PEOPLE AND THEIR SCHOOL DISTRICT The Board of Education is the legal entity for conducting a system of public education within the geographic area of the school district. The system was created by, and is governed by, state statutes. Members of a Board are chosen by citizens of a district to represent them and the state in the legislative management of public schools. The Board of Education has the dual responsibility for implementing statutory requirements pertaining to public education and local citizens' desires for educating the community's youth. While the Board has an obligation to determine and assess citizens' desires, it should be understood that when citizens elect board members to represent them in the conduct of public education they at the same time endorse their representatives with the authority to exercise their best judgment iri determining policies, making decisions, and approving procedures for carrying out the responsibility. The Board therefore affirms and declares its intent to: 1. Honor the Little Rock School District Covenant for the Future as approved by the Board on January 11, 2001 (attached). 2. Maintain two-way communications with citizens of the District. The public will be kept informed of the progress and problems of the schools, and citizens will be urged to bring their aspirations and feelings about their public schools to the attention of this body which they have chosen to represent them in the management of public education. 3. Establish policies and make decisions on the basis of declared educational philosophy and goals. All decisions made by this Board will be made with primary emphasis given to the purposes set forth, most crucial of which is the optimal learning of the children enrolled in our schools. 4. Act as a true representative body for citizens of the District in matters involving public education. The Board recognizes that ultimate responsibility for public education rests with the State of Arkansas, but individual Boards of Education have been assigned specific authority through statute. The Board will relinquish none of this authority since it believes that decision making control over the children's learning should be in the hands of local citizens as much as possible. Revised: March 22, 2001 Adopted: September 24, 1998 Attachment: LRSD Covenant for the Future LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT COVENANT FOR THE FUTURE WHEREAS, the 1998 Revised Desegregation and Education Plan established a workable framework for improving the academic achievement of all students and for creating an equitable, nondiscriminatory learning environment
WHEREAS, improving the academic achievement of all students and maintaining an equitable, nondiscriminatory learning environment will forever be the core of the Little Rock School District's mission
and WHEREAS, the Little Rock School District will no longer be required to implement the 1998 Revised Desegregation and Education Plan after the District earns "unitary status" and has been released from federal court supervision
THEREFORE, the Little Rock School District in order to manifest its post-unitary commitment to the community hereby resolves to establish this covenant. After obtaining "unitary status" the District will in good faith continue to exercise its best effort to: improve the academic achievement of all students, comply with the Constitution, and ensure that no person is discriminated against on the basis of race, color or ethnicity in the operation of LRSD, and provide equitable educational resources, programs and opportunity in a nondiscriminatory environment for all students attending LRSD schools . LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: AC - NONDISCRIMINATION The commitment of the Little Rock School District to the most fundamental principles of academic freedom, equality of opportunity, and human dignity requires that decisions involving students and employees be based on individual merit and be free from discrimination in all its forms. It is the policy of the Board of Education that there will be no discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, or handicap/disability in the placement, instruction, and guidance of pupils
the employment, assignment, training, or promotion of personnel
the provision and maintenance of physical supplies and equipment
the development and implementation of the curriculum, including the activities program
and in all matters relating to the instruction, supervision, administration and Board policy development. Adopted: September 24, 1998 Legal References: Title VI and Title VII, Civil Rights Act of 1964 Title I and Title II, Civil Rights Act of 1991 Equal Pay Act of 1963 Executive Order 11246 of 1995 Title IX, Education Amendments of 1972 and regulations, 34 C.F.R. part 104 Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Sections 503 and 504 Section 504, 34 C.F.R. part 104 Americans with Disabilities Act, 1990 Vietnam-era Veterans Readjustment Act, 1974 Age Discrimination Act, 1975 Age Discrimination in Employment Act, 1967 Arkansas General Laws Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 1997 Cross References: Board of Education Policies ACA, ACB, ACC, ACD, ACE, ACF LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACA NONDISCRIMINATIO~ ON THE BASlS OF GENDER (SEX) Gender equity is the provision of equal opportunities for all individuals without regard to their gender. Gender equity is attained through compliance with laws prohibiting gender discrimination and through the elimination of gender bias and gender stereotyping. It is the policy of the Board of Education that no student, faculty or staff in the Little Rock School District will, on the basis of gender, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any District educational program, activity or employment. Adopted: September 24, 1998 Legal References: See Code AC Cross References: Board of Education Policy AC LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACB NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF ETHNICITY AND RACE The Little Rock School District is committed to serve the educational needs and aspirations of our culturally diverse community. The District is committed to the pursuit of racial and ethnocultural equity for all its students and staff and the promotion of positive attitudes which respect the cultural diversity of our community. It is the policy of the Board of Education that there will be no discrimination on the basis of ethnicity and race in the placement, instruction, and guidance of pupils
the recruitment, employment, assignment, training, and promotion of personnel
the provision and maintenance of physical supplies and equipment
the development and implementation of the curriculum, including the activities program
and in all matters relating to the instruction, supervision, administration and Board policy development. In pursuit of equity, the Board is committed to: (1) The development and promotion of racial harmony among students and staff and within the community it serves
(2) Respect for the principle of racial and ethnocultural equity in its personnel practices
(3) Provision in its programs of opportunities for students to develop positive attitudes toward people with diverse racial, religious and cultural heritages
and (4) The acquisition of learning materials which are free of racial and cultural stereotyping. Further, the Board: (1) Strongly reiterates its refusal to tolerate expression of racist or ethnic bias in any form by its students or staff or Directors
(2) Affirms its right to deny access to any person, group or association whose intent is to promote discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, nationality or place of origin, and
(3) Reaffirms its support for special services and programs for students of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Adopted: September 24, 1998 Legal References: See Code AC Cross Reference: Board of Education Policy AC LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACBB EQUITABLE STUDENT ASSIGNMENT The Board of Education is committed to the implementation of student assignment programs and procedures designed to ensure the desegregation of Little Rock School District schools to the extent practicable, recognizing that the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan may not require that every Little Rock School District school be racially balanced. The Board directs the administration to develop and implement procedures designed to ensure desegregation within the parameters of the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan, to periodically assess the student assignment plan and to remedy any inequities that are apparent from that assessment. Adopted: April 22, 1999 Cross References: Board of Education Policies AC, ACB, ACBD Revised Desegregation and Education Plan of 1998 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACBE EQUITABLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OF FACILITIES The Board of Education is committed to the equitable maintenance and repair of all District facilities. It is the expectation of the Board that repairs and maintenance of facilities will be made equitably, promptly, and effectively, and in keeping with the intent of the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan. The Board directs the administration to develop and implement procedures designed to periodically assess the equitable repair and maintenance of District facilities and to remedy any inequities that are apparent from that assessment. Adopted: April 22, 1999 Cross References: Board of Education Policies AC, ACS, ACBB Revised Desegregation and Education Plan of 1998 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACC NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF AGE Discrimination on the basis of age is illegal under the Federal Age Discrimination Employment Act (ADEA). Age discrimination is present if an individual 40 years of age or older covered under this provision is treated unfavorably in the terms and conditions of his/her employment. Employment issues include hiring, promotions, demotions, terminations, wages, benefits, hours worked, working conditions, and availability of overtime. It is the policy of the Board of Education that individuals employed by the Little Rock School District will not experience discrimination in any form on the basis of age in the terms or conditions of employment. Adopted: September 24, 1998 Legal References: See Code AC Cross Reference: Board of Education Policy AC LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACD NONDISCRIMrNATION ON1HE BASIS OF RELIGION The First Amendment to the United States of America's Constitution requires that public schools remain religiously neutral. All students, staff, and faculty have the right to choose or not to choose their own religion and there will be no discrimination of any kind based upon an individual's religion. It is the policy of the Board of Education that no student, faculty, or staff in the Little Rock School District will, on the basis of religious belief, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any District educational program, activity, or employment. Adopted: September 24, 1998 Legal References: See Code AC Cross Reference: Board of Education Policy AC LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACE NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS.OFr1ANDICAP/DISABILITY In support of Section 504 of the Rehabilitative Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974, and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 1997, the District will not discriminate against persons who qualify on the basis of handicapping/disabling conditions. It is the policy of the Board of Education that no student, faculty or staff in the Little Rock School District will on the basis of handicapping/disabling conditions be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any District educational program, activity, or employment. Adopted: September 24, 1998 Legal References: See Code AC Cross Reference: Board of Education Policy AC LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACF INTERPERSONAL/HUMAN RELATIONS The Little Rock School District,is committed to providing a learning environment that is free from discrimination, culturally sensitive, and promotes positive interpersonal/human relations across all cultures. It is the policy of the Board of Education to provide a learning environment free from discrimination. Programs and procedures will be developed which serve to promote understanding and positive relationships among people . Adopted : September 24, 1998 Legal References: See Code AC Cross Reference: Board of Education Policy AC LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACG COMPLIANCE WITH THE REVISED DESEGREGATION AND EDUCATION PLAN, TITLE VI, TITLE VII , TITLE IX, ADA, SECTION 504, OR OTHER SIMILAR REQUIREMENTS The purpose of this policy is to affirm the Board of Education's commitment to compliance with the District's Desegregation and Education Plan and the Civil Rights Law of 1964 as amended. LRSD will implement a compliance program that will include the following components: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Compliance standards and procedures reasonably capable of reducing the prospect of noncompliance
Oversight of compliance with such standards and procedures by thE? Superintendent and the responsible officials
Communication of compliance standards and procedures to all employees
Utilization of monitoring and auditing systems reasonably designed to detect noncompliance
Utilization of a reporting system whereby students, patrons, and employees can report complaints or noncompliance without fear of retribution
Enforcement of compliance standards and procedures through disciplinary mechanisms when appropriate, including the discipline of individuals responsible for compliance and individuals responsible for any failure to report noncompliance
and, After noncompliance has been detected, implementation of all reasonable steps to correct past noncompliance and to prevent further noncompliance, including modification of the compliance program as necessary to prevent and detect further similar noncompliance. 8. Annual review of the compliance program for necessary revisions. Adopted: July 22, 1999 Cross References: Board of Education Policies AC, ACA, ACB, ACBB, ACC, ACD, ACE Revised Desegregation and Education Plan of 1998 Administrative Regulations ACG-R1/R2/R3 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACG-R1 COMPLIANCE WITH THE REVISED DESEGREGATION AND EDUCATION PLAN Compliance and Quality Assurance Committee The Associate Superintendents of Administrative Services, Instruction, Operations, and School Services and the Special Assistant to the Superintendent will comprise the Compliance and Quality Assurance Committee. The District's compliance official also will be a member of the committee. (The compliance official duties may be one of the responsibilities of one of the aforementioned positions.) The committee will have responsibility for the development, implementation, oversight, review, and revision of the compliance program. The compliance program will include any programs, policies, and/or procedures necessary to ensure that the District fulfills all of its obligations under the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan (Plan). The compliance philosophy will be based on internalizing the Plan through the performance responsibilities of the respective organizational divisions. For example, the Instruction division will be responsible for integrating the Plan's requirements into the curriculum development, staff development, and other similar functions of that division. The associate superintendent who heads "the division will be the responsible person for the components of the Plan that are appropriate for his/her division. Through the internalization of the philosophy and the integration of the Plan into the District's structure, the respective divisions will proactively monitor compliance. The associate superintendents will take appropriate action with respect to incidents of non-compliance and take steps to prevent future similar incidences of non-compliance. Communication and Training All employees will be provided training on the Plan and the District's commitment to the principles of equity and Plan compliance. Each employee will be provided a copy of the Plan and a Plan compliance handbook. The associate superintendents will be responsible for the training of the employees in their areas on the specific obligations of the division and the employees. The Plan compliance handbook will include the following information: A statement of the District's commitment to compliance
The procedures for reporting complaints and/or non-compliance with the Plan
The possible sanctions for non-compliance
The employees' responsibilities for reporting non-compliance
The possible sanctions for the failure to report non-compliance
The avenues for suggesting modifications in the compliance plan. LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACG-R1 ( continued) The District web site will be used to assist in communication associated with the Plan and Plan compliance. The web site will include the following information: A copy of the Plan
The name, telephone number, and E-mail address of the District's compliance official
The procedures for filing a complaint or reporting non-compliance . Date: July 22, 1999 2 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACG-R2 COMPLAfNTRESOLUTION FOR THE REVISE8-DESEGREGATION AND EDUCATION PLAN, TITLE VI, TITLE VII, TITLE IX, ADA, SECTION 504, OR O~HER SIMILAR REQUIREMENTS The specific purposes to be served by these procedures are: To ensure that a complaint is considered fairly, with all due speed, and without prejudice or reprisal to the aggrieved person
To encourage employee expression regarding conditions that affect him/her
To provide a specific procedure that will facilitate the understanding of district policies affecting employees
To build confidence, in the sincerity and integrity of the complaint resolution procedure as a means to establish the facts upon which a complaint is based, a problem is stated, and a fair conclusion or solution is reached . Definitions A "complaint" is an allegation of action or inaction by the District or its representatives in violation of the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan, Title VI, Title IX, ADA or Section 504, or the implementing regulations, or other similar requirements. The "complainant" is the student, patron, or employee bringing the complaint. "Employee" means a person who is a full or part-time employee who is on the payroll of the District. "Patron" means any student's parent or other resident in the LRSD. The "responsible official" means the employee designated by the District to coordinate its efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under the abovementioned requirements . . "Student" means a person enrolled in one of the schools operated by the corporation. "Superintendent" means the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee. Responsible Official The following LRSD administrators are the responsible officials for the areas listed: Revised Desegregation and Education Plan-Associate Superintendent for Administrative Services Title VI-Director, Exceptional Children Title VII-Director, Human Resources Title IX-Special Assistant to the Superintendent LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACG-R2 (continued) ADA-Director, Human Resources Section 504 for Employees-Special Assistant to the Superintendent Section 504 for Students-Director, Exceptional Children Process The following process will be used in the review and resolution of complaints regarding compliance with the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan, Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, ADA, Section 504, or other similar requirements of the Civil Rights Law of 1964 as amended: Step 1 (Informal Resolution) The complainant is encouraged to try to resolve any issues relating to implementation and compliance with any of the aforementioned legal requirements at the lowest administrative level possible. The complaint should be brought to the administrator/supervisor at the point where the possible violation exists. Within ten days after receipt of the complaint, the administrator will attenipt resolution with the complainant in an informal manner. If a satisfactory informal resolution cannot be reached, the complainant and/or the administrator may seek the assistance of the District's responsible official. Step 2 (Formal Complaint) If the complainant is unable to secure a satisfactory resolution through informal means at step 1, the complainant may file a formal complaint. The complaint should be filed with the LRSD's official who has district level responsibility for that area. The complaint must be filed within ten days of the response of the administration at step 1. The complaint should be in writing and give a concise but thorough overview of the alleged problem or violation and indicate the specific relief requested. All relevant documents also should be included. The responsible official will investigate the complaint and collect whatever information is needed to make an informed decision. The responsible official will issue a written finding within fifteen days of the receipt of the complaint or inform the complainant of the reasons that it is not possible to issue a finding in that time frame. If a finding cannot be issued within fifteen days, it will be issued as soon as practicable . 2 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACG-R2 ( continued) Step 3 (Appeal to the Board of Education) If the complainant is not satisfied with the finding at step 2, he/she may request a hearing with the Board of Education. The request for the hearing must be made within ten days of the written finding issued at step 2. The request for the hearing must include a statement of the complaint, the finding of the responsible official from step 2, and any response to the finding that the complainant wishes to present. It should include the reasons that the complainant believes the finding is in error. The individual members of the Board will review the information presented with the written request for the hearing prior to following month's Board agenda meeting. The Board will decide at the agenda meeting whether or not to place the appeal on the agenda for a hearing. If the Board decides not to hear the complaint, the written finding of the District's responsible official will be the position of the LRSD. Timelines The failure of the complainant to comply with the identified timelines will be considered to be an abandonment of the complaint. Effect of Settlement Any settlement of a complaint will be applicable to that complaint only and will not be binding authority for the disposition of any other complaint. Anonymous Complaints The LRSD is committed to compliance with its legal obligations. As a result anonymous complaints will be thoroughly investigated and handled in a serious manner. However, anonymous complaints are more difficult to substantiate and investigate. Therefore, complainants are encouraged to be open, forthcoming , and identify themselves to assist in a satisfactory resolution to the complaint. The LRSD recognizes that some students, patrons, and employees will not come forward with legitimate complaints because of a fear of retribution. The LRSD will not condone or tolerate reprisals against complainants by any of its employees. Employees who exercise retaliatory behavior against any complainant will be appropriately disciplined. 3 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACG-R2 ( continued) Reporting Outside the Process In instances where there is a genuine sense of potential reprisal and it is not realistic to report the complaint at the lowest administrative level, the complaint may be made with the District's responsible official. The responsible official may refer the complaint to another administrator in the department's organizational structure to attempt a resolution . Date: July 22, 1999 4 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACG-R3 STUDENT/PARENT/GUARDIAN COMPLAINT PROCEDURE The following procedure will be used to address a complaint from a student, parent, or guardian. Complaints can include, but are not limited to, discrimination based on race, national origin, religion, handicap, age or gender, including sexual harassment: 1. Report the alleged incident to the principal as soon as possible after the event(s) has occurred. If the complaint involves the principal, the report of the alleged incident should be made to the Assistant Superintendent or Associate Superintendent for School Services as soon as possible after the event(s) occurred. 2. The complaint will be investigated and the individual bringing the complaint will be advised of the outcome of the investigation within ten (10) days. 3. If the individual bringing the complaint is not satisfied with the principal's resolution he/she may appeal to the Assistant Superintendent or Associate Superintendent for School Services. The appeal must be made in writing within ten (10) days from receipt of the principal's decision. 4. If the individual is not satisfied with the Assistant or Associate Superintendent's resolution of the complaint, he/she may appeal to the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee. Date: November 18, 1999 Cross Reference: Student Handbook LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACH ANTI-HARASSMENT POLICY It is the policy of the District to maintain a learning environment that is free from harassment. The District prohibits any and all forms of harassment because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, national origin, religion, or disability or protected activity (i.e. opposing unlawful harassment or discrimination or participating in an investigation. Any such conduct will result in disciplinary action and notification to the proper authorities. It will be a violation of District policy for any student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel of the District to harass a student through conduct of a sexual nature, or regarding race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, national origin, religion, disability, or protected activity as defined by this policy. It will also be a violation of District policy for any teacher, administrator or other school personnel of the District to tolerate sexual harassment or harassment because of a student's race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, national origin, religion, disability or protected activity as defined by this policy, by a student, teacher, administrator, other school personnel, or by any third parties who are participating in, observing, or otherwise engaged in activities, including sports events and other extracurricular activities, under the auspices of the District. For the purpose of this policy, the "school personnel" includes school Board of Education members, school employees, agents, volunteers, contractors, or persons subject to the supervision and control of the District. The District will act to promptly investigate all complaints, either formal or informal, verbal or written, of harassment because of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, national origin, religion, disability or protected activity to promptly take appropriate action to protect individuals from further harassment
and, if it determines that unlawful harassment occurred, to promptly and appropriately discipline any student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel who is found to have violated this policy, and/or to take other appropriate action reasonably calculated to end the harassment. This policy will be broadly interpreted as evidence of the District's commitment to equality of opportunity, human dignity, diversity, and academic freedom. No person will retaliate or threaten retaliation against another person for reporting, testifying or otherwise participating in any investigation, or proceeding relating to a complaint of harassment. LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACH (continued) PROCEDURE FOR COMPLAINTS OF HARASSMENT These regulations are intended to protect the rights of students, employees, administrators, the Board of Education and visitors on District property and to outline procedures, which will be followed in the event harassment occurs on District property or atan event sponsored by the District. The following definitions will be used for the purpose of enforcing the Anti-Harassment Policy. DEFINITIONS Racial or Color Harassment Racial or color harassment includes unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct, directed at the characteristics of a person's race or color, such as nicknames emphasizing stereotypes, racial slurs, comments on manner of speaking and negative references to racial customs. Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. It also includes conduct that is not sexual in nature but that is engaged in because of the gender of the victim. It includes conduct that is also criminal in nature such as rape, sexual assault, stalking, and similar offenses. Under federal law, sexual harassment is prohibited regardless of the sex of the harasser, i.e., sexual harassment may occur even if the harasser and the person being harassed are the same sex. Sexual Orientation Harassment Harassment on the basis of sexual orientation is unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct, directed at the characteristics of a person's sexual orientation, such as negative name-calling and imitating mannerisms. Marital Status Harassment Harassment on the basis of marital status is unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct, directed at the characteristics of a person's marital status, such as comments regarding pregnancy or being an unwed mother or father. National Origin Harassment Harassment on the basis of national origin is unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct, directed at the characteristics of a person's national origin, such as negative comments regarding surnames, manner of speaking, customs, language, or ethnic slurs. 2 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACH ( continued) Religious Harassment Harassment on the basis of religion or creed is unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct, directed at the characteristics of a person's religion or creed, such as derogatory comments regarding surnames, religious tradition, or religious clothing, or religious slurs, or graffiti. Disability Harassment Harassment based on a person's disabling mental or physical condition and includes any unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct, directed at the characteristics of a person's disabling condition, such as imitating manner of speech or movement, or interference with necessary equipment. REPORTING PROCEDURES Any person who feels he/she is being harassed may wish to consider informing the offending person that the behavior is inappropriate and not appreciated. Oftentimes, this is all that is required to stop the harassing behavior. You are not, however, required to take this step prior to filing a complaint. Any student, District personnel, or visitor who believes he/she has been the victim of harassment by a student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel of the District, or by any other person who is participating in, observing, or otherwise engaged in activities, including extracurricular activities, under the auspices of the District, is encouraged to immediately report the alleged acts to the building principal. If the principal is the perpetrator of the harassment, the report of the incident will be made to the appropriate Assistant Superintendent, Associate Superintendent for School Services or the Director of Human Resources. Any teacher, administrator or other school official who has knowledge of or receives notice that a student or visitor has or may have been the victim of harassment by a student, teacher, administrator, or other school district personnel is required to immediately report the alleged act(s) to the building principal unless the principal is the perpetrator. If the harassment involves the principal, the incident will be reported to the appropriate Assistant Superintendent or Associate Superintendent for School Services. Upon receipt of the report, the principal, Assistant Superintendent or Associate Superintendent will notify Safety and Security personnel to conduct an investigation of the allegation. A third party may be involved in the investigation. The parent of the student (victim) will be notified immediately, unless after consultation with the student, it is determined not to be in the best interest of the student. 3 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ACH (continued) If the alleged harassment is committed by a student, the student's parent/guardian will be notified that an investigation is being conducted. Complaints will be kept confidential to the extent possible. A prompt, thorough and impartial investigation will be conducted of all complaints of violation of this policy. Upon completion of the investigation, a written report will be submitted to the principal, Assistant Superintendent, or Associate Superintendent. The report will include a determination as to whether the allegations have been substantiated as factual and whether they appear to have violated District policy and/or law. Notification of the outcome of the investigation will be sent to all parties involved. If the allegation is substantiated, the District will take immediate and appropriate corrective action, including the following: 1. a student will receive a disciplinary sanctioned as outlined in the Student Handbook, and/or notification to the proper authorities. 2. a staff member will receive a disciplinary sanction as outlined in the Employee Handbook and/or the proper authorities will be notified. 3. a report of the incident regarding a visitor who committed an act while on District property or at an event sponsored by the District, will be referred to the proper legal authorities. Notwithstanding this policy, employees may file a charge of discrimination with the U.S. EEOC. Employers who wish to file a charge must do so within 180 days of the last act of alleged harassment. Adopted: July 23, 2001 Legal References: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, 1965, 42 U.S.C. 2000d Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, 20 U.S.C. 1681 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 U.S. C. 794 Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), 42 U.S.C. 12134 Cross References: Student Handbooks and Personnel Handbook 4 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: AD LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT The mission of the Little Rock School District is to equip all students with the skills and knowledge to realize their aspirations, think critically and independently, learn continuously, and face the future as productive contributing citizens. This mission is accomplished through open access to a diverse, innovative and challenging curriculum in a secure environment with a staff dedicated to excellence and empowered with the trust and support of our community . Adopted: September 24, 1998 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ADA LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OBJECTIVES No later than the year 2003, no fewer than 9 out of 10 students will meet or exceed LRSD standards of performance identified in the core curriculum. Each student will set and achieve challenging educational goals tailored to his or her interests, abilities and aspirations related to meaningful work, higher learning, citizenship or service to others. By 2003, the percentage of students in every identified sub-group of race and gender performing at or above the national average in reading and math on standardized tests shall be at least 65%
performing at the highest quartile in reading and math on standardized tests shall be at least 30%
and performing at the lowest quartile in reading and math on standardized tests shall be no more than 10% . Adopted: September 24, 1998 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ADB DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS The Little Rock School District is committed to providing a drug and alcohol free learning environment and workplace. Drug abuse and alcohol abuse at school or in connection with school-sponsored activities on or off school grounds threaten the health and safety of our students and our employees and adversely affect the educational mission of the school district. It is the policy of the Board of Education that the manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of illicit drugs, alcohol or other controlled substances in the workplace, on school premises or as part of any school-sponsored activities is strictly prohibited. These standards of conduct are equally applicable to students and employees. Any employee who is convicted of a drug statute violation arising out of conduct occurring in the workplace must notify the central administration of such conviction not later than five (5) days after the conviction. Compliance with these standards of conduct is mandatory. In accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, compliance with this policy is made a condition of employment by the school district. Disciplinary sanctions (consistent with local, state and federal law), up to and including termination of employment and referral for prosecution, will be imposed on employees who violate the standards of conduct set forth in this notice. Adopted: September 24, 1998 Legal References: Drug-Free Schools Act, 1988 Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 (Public Law 101-226) Cross References: Board of Education Policy GBEC Student Handbook LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ADC TOBACCO-FREE SCHOOLS The Board of Education believes that tobacco smoke in the school and work environments is not conducive to good health. As an educational organization, the Little Rock School District should provide both effective educational programs and a positive example to students concerning the use of tobacco. It is the policy of the Board of Education that all uses of tobacco and tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, will be prohibited in all District facilities. At no time will the use of tobacco or tobacco products be permitted in classrooms, corridors, restrooms, locker rooms, work areas, cafeterias, offices, faculty lounges, gymnasiums, all other rooms and school grounds. This policy also prohibits the use of tobacco or tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, in all vehicles owned, leased or operated by the District. District employees and students enrolled in the District's schools are not permitted to use tobacco or tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, while they are participants in any class or activity in which they represent the school district. Adopted: September 24, 1998 Legal References: School Law of Arkansas, Acts 854 and 779 Cross Reference: Student Handbook LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: ADD SAFE SCHOOLS The Little Rock School District will maintain a safe and nurturing educational environment where students can learn, teachers can teach, and where parents and patrons can meet. The Little Rock School District will not tolerate violence or injury to staff or students, nor will weapons be tolerated at any school activity or on any school district property. It is the policy of the Board of Education to enforce fairly and firmly all federal and state laws and related District policies pertaining to school safety and student discipline. Any criminal misconduct will be reported to the proper law enforcement authority, and school district staff will cooperate with any subsequent criminal prosecution . Adopted: September 24, 1998 Legal References: Arkansas General Laws Federal Gun-Free Schools Act Cross Reference: Student Handbook LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: AE COMMITMENT TO ACCOMPLISHMENT The Board of Education accepts ultimate responsibility for all facets of Board operations. Because it is accountable to the people, the Board will maintain a program of accountability consisting of the following elements: 1. Clear statements of expectations and purpose as they relate to operations, . programs, departments, and positions. 2. Provision for the staff, resources, and support necessary, to achieve stated expectations and purposes, subject to the District's financial capabilities. 3. Evaluation of operations, programs, instruction, and services to determine how well expectations and purposes are being met. Adopted: September 24, 1998 B.SchoolBoard Governance SECTION B: SCHOOL BOARD GOVERNANCE AND OPERATIONS Section B of the Little Rock School District policy manual contains policies, regulations, and exhibits on the school board - how it is appointed or elected
how it is organized
how it conducts meetings, and how the board operates. This section includes bylaws and policies establishing the board's internal operating procedures. BA BAA BB BBA BBB BBBA BBBB BBBD BBBE BCA BCB BCC BD BDA BDB BDC BDCA BDCB BDD BDF BDG BDH BE BEA BEB BEC BED BEDA BEDB BEDC BEDD Board of Education Operational Goals Board of Education Self-Evaluation School Board Legal Status Board Powers and Responsibilities Board Membership Elections Board Membership Qualifications Board Membership Oath of Office Board Member Removal from Office Unexpired Term FulfillmenWacancies School Board Member Code of Conduct Prevention of Nepotism Financial Disclosure by School Board Members Organization of the School Board Board Organizational Meeting Board Officers Appointed Board Officials District Representative to the Board of Equalization District Representative to the Little Rock Planning Commission Board-Superintendent Relationship Advisory-Committees School Attorney/Legal Services Consultants to the Board School Board Meetings Regular Board Meetings Special School Board Meetings Executive Sessions Meeting Procedures Notification of Board Meetings Agenda Quorum Rules of Order Section B - Page 1 of 2 BEDDB Suspension of Rules of Order BEDF Voting Method BEDG Minutes BEDH Public Participation at Board Meetings BEE Board Hearings/Appeal Proceedings BF School Board Work Sessions and Retreats BG School Board Policy BGD Review of Regulations BGE Policy Communication BH School Board Communications BHA School District Logo BIB Board Member Development BID Board Member Compensation BJ School Board Legislative Program BK School Board Memberships in Professional Associations Section B - Page 2 of 2 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BA BOARD OF EDUCATION DPERATIONAL GOALS The Board of Education is responsible to the people, all of the people, for whose benefit the school District has been established. By virtue of this responsibility each member of the Board must look to the future and to the needs of all people. This requires a comprehensive perspective and long-range strategic plan in addition to attention to immediate problems. The Board 's primary responsibility is to establish those purposes, programs, and procedures that will best produce the educational achievement needed by District students. It is charged with accomplishing this while also being responsible for wise management of resources available to the District. The Board must fulfill these responsibilities by formulating and adopting policy, by selecting a superintendent to implement policy, and by evaluating results. Further, the Board must carry out its functions openly, while seeking the involvement and contributions of the public, students, and staff in its decision making processes . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BAA BOARD-OF EDUCATION SELF-EVALUATION Annually, the Board of Education will conduct a self-evaluation. The evaluation plan will be developed by the Board president and an Ad Hoc Board committee appointed by the president. The following areas of Board functions will be included in the self-evaluation: 1. Board Meetings 2. Policy Development and Evaluation 3. Fiscal Management 4. Board Role in Educational Program Development 5. Board Member Orientation 6. Board Member Development 7. Board Officer Performance 8. Board-Superintendent Relationships 9. Board-Staff Relationships 10. Board-Community Relationships 11. Legislative and Governmental Relationships . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BB - SCHOOL BOARD LEGAL STATUS The corporate name of this school district will be Little Rock School District of Pulaski County, Arkansas, as provided by the law of the State of Arkansas. The Little Rock School District of Pulaski County, Arkansas, will be referred to as the "District" or "Little Rock School District" in this policy book. The District is governed by a Board of Education consisting of seven Board members, each of whom is elected for a three-year term . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: Statute 80-401 , 80-402, 80-403 School Law of Arkansas Cross Reference: Board of Education Policy AA LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BBA - - BOARD POWERS AND RESPONSIBILITIES The Board of Education is a representative body elected to provide for and oversee the operation of the District. Power and mandatory responsibilities of the Board are defined in state statutes. The Board exercises its powers and responsibilities only when convened in a legally constituted meeting. Powers of the Board: Legislative or policymaking. The Board is responsible for the development of policy and for the employment of a superintendent who will carry out District policy through the development and implementation of regulations. The Board will serve as the final authority within the school system to resolve any issue which cannot be resolved through regular administrative channels. Educational planning and appraisal. The Board is responsible for using reliable information which will enable it to make the best possible decisions about the scope and nature of the educational program. The Board is responsible for requiring appraisal of the results of the educational program. Staffing and appraisal. The Board is responsible for approving the employment of staff. The Board is responsible for approving salaries, salary schedules, terms and conditions of employment, and for ensuring an effective appraisal of District staff through the annual evaluation process. Financial resources. The Board is responsible for adopting a budget that will provide the financial base for staff, buildings, materials, and equipment to enable the District to carry out the educational program. The Board is responsible for exercising control over the finances of the District to ensure proper use of, and accounting for, all District funds. School facilities. The Board is responsible for ensuring that District facilities support and enhance the educational program. Communication with public. The Board is responsible for keeping the community informed about the schools and for providing opportunities for the community to share ideas and concerns with the Board. Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: A.C.A. 6-13-620 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BBB BOARD MEMBERSHIP ELECTIONS The Board of Education of the Little Rock School District is composed of seven (7) directors. As established by law the directors are elected by qualified voters of each zone on a nonpartisan ballot on the third Tuesday in September. Directors' terms of office are staggered to ensure that not more than three (3) Director positions are elected each year. The term of office is three (3) years with the right to succession. Candidates for election are nominated by petition. The petition must be signed by twenty (20) qualified voters from the candidate's zone. This petition must be filed with the Pulaski County Circuit Clerk 45 days prior to the election date and the candidate certified by the Pulaski County election Commission . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: AC.A. 6-13-615, 6-13-608, 6-13-607 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BBBA BOARD MEMBERSHIP QLJA[IFfCATIONS Qualifications to be a member of the Little Rock School District Board of Education as stated by law are as follows: Be a qualified elector from the District Be eighteen (18) years of age or older Be a citizen of the United States of America Be a resident of the election zone Reside in the zone at least six (6) months prior to the election Not be employed by the District Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: A.C.A. 6-13-616, 6-13-607, 6-13-630 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BBBB BOARD MEMBERSHIP OATH OF OFFICE Each Director will, within ten (10) days after receiving notice of his or her election or appointment, subscribe to the following oath: "I,_, do hereby solemnly swear or affirm, that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Arkansas, and that I will not be interested, directly or indirectly, in any contract made by the District of which I am a director, except that said contract be for materials bought on open competitive bid and let to the lowest bidder, and that I will faithfully discharge the duties as school director in the Little Rock School District of Pulaski County, Arkansas, upon which I am about to enter." The county clerk, upon receipt of the director's oath, will immediately commission the director and the director will enter at once upon his or her duties . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: A.C.A. 6-13-617 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BBBD BOARD MEMBER REMOVAL FROM OFFICE Board members will be removed from office for the following reasons: Conviction of a felony: A vacancy will exist on the Board of Education from the date of the final judgment of conviction. The prosecuting attorney who prosecutes a board member will immediately notify the Little Rock School District Board of Education and a vacancy shall be declared. Removal of residence from the zone represented: If a Board member's primary residence is moved outside the zone he or she was elected to represent, the board member will immediately tender a letter of resignation. Temporary vacancy due to service in the armed forces: A successor will be appointed to fill the temporary vacancy. Upon return to civilian activities the elected member may resume the duties of board member for the unexpired term by written notice to the Board secretary . Absence from board meetings: A vacancy may be declared by a vote of the Board if a member fails to attend a school board meeting during a ninety (90) day period due to removal of residence from the District or employment at a distance from the District. A vacancy may be declared by a vote of the Board if a member misses three (3) regular and consecutive board meetings during a school year for any reason other than service in the armed forces or illness documented by the member's attending physician. The member must be given an opportunity for a hearing before the Board upon fifteen (15) days notice received by personal delivery or certified mail with return receipt signed by addressee. When a vacancy occurs on the Board of Education the remaining Board members will appoint an individual to serve until the next annual school election. Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: A.C.A. 6-13-612, 6-13-613, 6-13-6 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BBBA, BBBF LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BBBE UNEXPIRED TERM FULFILLMENTNACANCIES Vacancies may occur on the Board of Education because of a member's resignation, death, moving out of the District, or other reasons provided by law. The Board by formal action will declare the Board position vacant. The vacancy will be filled by a majority vote of the remaining members within thirty (30) days. At least fifteen (15) days before making an appointment to fill a vacancy, the Board will publish a notice in the newspaper(s) having general circulation in the District. Qualified persons interested in filling the position may make application. If the Board fails to fill the vacancy within thirty (30) days, the vacancy will be filled by appointment by the Pulaski County Board of Education. Appointed directors will serve until the next annual school election and may be a candidate for election to the seat to which they are appointed . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: A.C.A. 6-13-611 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BBB, BBBA, BBBB, BBBD LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BCA SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER CODE OF CONDUCT The Board of Education is elected to develop policy and provide overall leadership to the District. The role of the Board will be to act on issues that impact the quality of education for all children. They will act as both statespersons and representatives. To ensure that this goal is achieved, the Little Rock School District Board of Education adopts the following code of conduct for all Board members. 1. The Board of Education (the Board) has oversight responsibility and control over all activities related to the public school education provided by the District. The Board is elected by the public and has decision-making authority, the power to designate management, the ability to significantly influence operations and primary accountability for fiscal matters. 2. Board members will act as policy makers, monitors, and evaluators of educational policies, and they will be the liaison to the people. 3. Individual Board members have no power or right to make individual promises that would be binding upon the Board and/or the District. 4. When Board members are contacted by staff or community members, they should listen to the concern or complaint and inform the individual of appropriate board policies and procedures regarding the complaint or concern. 5. Board members should praise employees when it is appropriate to do so, but criticism must be handled through the office of the superintendent. 6. Interaction between the superintendent and Board members will be constructive, open, productive and mutually respectful. 7. Board members may provide individual advice but may provide direction to the superintendent only as a result of official Board action. 8. Confidences shared among colleagues will be honored and information that is privileged under applicable law will remain completely confidential. 9. Each member of the Board agrees to direct questions about school district operations to the superintendent or to his/her designee(s). LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BCA (continued) 10. Each Board member is expected to work to establish an open, positive, problemsolving atmosphere to achieve the goals of the organization. 11. In the area of policy, only the president of the Board is empowered to speak for the Board, and then only on matters which the Board has resolved by a majority vote of the Board. Board members may state personal positions as long as they make it clear that they are not speaking on behalf of the Board or the District. The Board speaks only through its resolutions. 12. Before each meeting Board members should read all available agenda materials and call the superintendent prior to the meeting if clarification is needed. 13. Once a decision is reached, the administration should ensure the decision is implemented. 14. When interacting with staff, Board members are expected to be cognizant of their role as policy makers, in contrast with the role of administrators as managers of the school system. 15. Board members will facilitate dialogue, divergent thinking, and debate in order to make the best decisions. In order to ensure that this code of conduct is adhered to, the President of the Board will entertain discussions of perceived violations of this code, and the Board is empowered to censure officially, in public meetings, members who persistently violate this code . Adopted: January 28, 1999 2 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BCB - PREVENTION OF NEPOTISM No person will be employed in the Little Rock School District in any capacity who is related (whether by blood or marriage, including spouse, parent, child, grandparent, grandchild, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, or first cousin) to a member of the Little Rock School District Board of Education, the superintendent of schools, or senior administrators reporting directly to the superintendent. The policy will be applied prospectively and will not be construed to affect the employment or annual renewal -of employment of any individual so related who is in the employ of the Little Rock School District at the time of adoption of this policy. Additionally, no person will be employed in a position where he/she would be related, as defined above, to his/her immediate supervisor. If an employee is transferred to a supervisor's position which would cause a violation of this policy, the subordinate employee will be transferred to a substantially equivalent position as soon as reasonably possible. Under no circumstance will a supervisor be allowed to evaluate the performance of one of his/her relatives . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BCC FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE BY SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS Members of the Little Rock School District Board of Education must file a written financial disclosure statement on or before the last day of January of each year. The statement is filed with the Pulaski County Circuit Clerk and is open for public inspection. The financial disclosure statement is retained for five years and then destroyed . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: AC.A. 21-8-305 through 21-8-309 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BO ORGANIZATION OF THE SCHOOL BOARD The Board of Education will organize by electing officers of the Board. The Board will elect a president, a vice-president, and a secretary. Officers will be elected by majority vote of the members present at the organizational meeting. The Board may assign a District employee to provide clerical assistance to the Board .. Board officers will serve for a term of one year or until a successor is elected and qualified. No member of the Board will serve more than two consecutive terms as president. A vacancy among officers of the Board, other than the president, will be filled by majority action of the Board. A vacancy in the presidency will be filled by the vicepresident, and a new vice-president will be elected . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: Arkansas School Law 80-506 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BBBD, BBBE, BEDC, BEDD, BEDF LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BOA BOARD ORGAr-:JfZATIONAL MEETING The Board of Education will organize annually at its first regular meeting after the annual school election for the purpose of swearing in successful candidates and electing officers. At this meeting, the Board will elect a president, a vice president, and a secretary from its members. The incumbent president of the Board will preside until a successor is elected, whereupon the successor will assume the chair. Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: Arkansas School Law 80-506 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BBB, BE, BEA, BED, BEDF LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BOB "BOARD OFFICERS Duties of the President The president will preside at all meetings, will decide questions of order in accordance with Robert's Rules of Order Revised and will appoint all committees at the direction of the Board of Education. The president will have the right as other members of the Board to discuss and vote on all questions. The president will call a special meeting of the Board of Education whenever conditions required for special meetings have been met. Duties of the Vice-president In the absence or incapacity of the president, the vice-president will perform the duties and assume the obligations of the president. Duties of the Secretary The secretary of the Board of Education will keep a record of the proceedings in all Board meetings. This may be done through clerical assistance. In the absence or incapacity of the president and vice-president, the secretary will perform the duties and assume the obligations of the president. Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BOC -- - -- -, -APP-OINTED BOARD OFFICIALS . It is the practice of the Board of Education to appoint individuals to officially represent the Board on appropriate county, city or community based boards and commissions. The representative will appear before the Board at the Board's request to report on the actions and future actions of the related board or commission. At that time, the Board may direct any questions to the representative concerning the function or actions of the related board or commission . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BOCA DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE TOTHE'BOARD OF EQUALIZATION The Board of Education will appoint a representative to the Board of Equalization for Pulaski County, Arkansas. The function of the Board of Equalization is to review the assessments made by the county assessor and make recommendations to the county assessor, to raise or lower individual assessments and to make a report to the Arkansas Tax Coordination Reassessment Division for the State of Arkansas. The County Clerk reviews the report of the Board of Equalization and forwards the report to the Arkansas Tax Coordination Reassessment Division. This body reviews the report and determines if the assessments fall within the guidelines dictated by state law. The term for this appointment is three years. The representative must be a qualified elector, a real estate owner, and have familiarity with property values in Pulaski County. The representative must be able to attend the several day planning meeting in July and to meet daily during the month of August. Occasionally, a special session is held during the first two weeks of September to complete any unfinished business. The representative is compensated $50.00 per day while in session. A certain amount is appropriated and cannot be exceeded . Each school district (Little Rock, North Little Rock and Pulaski County Special) has a representative on the Board of Equalization at all times. The three-year terms of the representatives are staggered so that one school district representative's term expires each year. The superintendent of the school district with the expiring term in consultation with the Board of Education nominates the representative to replace the representative whose term expires or who may have resigned. By gentleman's agreement, the superintendents of the remaining two school districts cast their vote to elect the nominee from the district with the expiring term. Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: Arkansas School Law 84-701 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BDCB DISTRICT REPRESENTATfVETO TRE LITT[E ROCK PLANNING COMMISSION The Board of Education will appoint a representative to the Little Rock Planning Commission. The function of the Little Rock Planning Commission is to serve in an advisory capacity to the City Board of Directors on matters relating to land development, proposed utility expansion, and proposed new improvement districts and to act as final authority on the proposals for subdivision plats. No formal qualifications are required to serve on the Planning Commission. The person appointed to serve on the Planning Commission should be able to spend about one-half day each month in his/her personal vehicle driving to areas that are under consideration
to meet with the full commission at least twice monthly
and to spend a total of approximately four days per month on Planning Commission business. One position of the Planning Commission is designated for the representative of the Little Rock School District and is an "open-ended" term. The representative serves until the representative resigns . There is no compensation for service in this position. Expenses for out-of-town retreats or other authorized business is reimbursed. Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: City Ordinance Article II, Sec 23-27(a) LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BDD BOARD-S0PERlNTENDENT RELATIONSHIP The Board of Education believes that the legislation of policies is the most important function of a school board and that the execution of the policies should be the function of the superintendent and staff. Delegation by the Board of its executive powers to the superintendent provides freedom for the superintendent to manage the schools within the Board's policies and frees the Board to devote its time to policymaking and appraisal functions. The Board holds the superintendent responsible for the administration of its policies, the execution of Board decisions, the operation of the internal machinery designed to serve the school program, and for keeping the Board informed about school operations and problems. The Board will strive to employ the best professional leader available for the head administrative post. Then, the Board as a whole, and individual members, will: Give the superintendent full administrative authority for properly discharging his or her professional duties, holding him/her responsible for acceptable results. Act in matters of employment or dismissal of school personnel only after receiving the recommendations of the superintendent. Hold meetings of the Board in the presence of the superintendent, except when his or her contract and salary are under consideration. Refer all complaints to the superintendent for appropriate investigation and action. Strive to provide adequate safeguards around the superintendent and other staff members so that they can discharge their educational functions on a thoroughly professional basis. Present personal criticisms of any employee directly to the superintendent. Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: A.C.A. 6-13-620 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BDF ADVlSORY-COMMITTEES The Board of Education may appoint ad hoc advisory committees to counsel it as one means of discerning the needs and desires of the school district and its residents. The central purpose of all advisory committees is to contribute to the educational program by conducting studies, identifying problems, and developing recommendations that will enhance the effectiveness of the decision making process. The ultimate authority to make decisions will continue to reside in the powers and duties of the Board as imposed by law. Such committees will be formed by the Board at such times and for such specific purposes as the Board deems necessary. They will function until their assigned goal has been accomplished, and then will be dissolved. Generally, citizens' advisory committees will be assigned to investigate areas of educational program which need development, change, or reorganization and areas of community involvement in District affairs. Members will be broadly representative of the community's population and chosen from among residents who have shown an interest in the topic to be studied and who express a sincere interest in the advancement of public education. Once activated, the committee will report periodically to the Board, keeping it informed of progress and problems. The Board may designate the intervals at which it will hear from the committee, but any significant developments will be reported as they occur. No announcement may be made by any committee or its members to the public or press until such release has been cleared with the Board president or his or her designee. The Board will provide citizens advisory committees with a suitable meeting place and administrative assistance. Recognizing the contributions to be made by staff members in the deliberations of citizens advisory groups, the Board may authorize participation of school personnel in various ad hoc advisory committees. In such cases, the superintendent will recommend the staff member or members to serve on the committee. Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BOG SCHOOL ATTORNEY/LEGAL SERVICES The increasing complexity of school operations requires the frequent procurement of legal services. Consequently, the Board will retain an attorney or law firm. The school attorney must be admitted to the state bar and licensed in the legal profession. In addition, the attorney will either have supplementary training in schoolrelated law and the role of the public school in society, or will commit himself or herself to acquiring such knowledge within a reasonable time following appointment. The school attorney's services will include, but not be limited to: furnishing general legal advice in policy development and on relations with employees, employee organizations, pupils, parents, district residents, and other governmental and nongovernmental groups and agencies
aiding the well-being of the district
and rendering services in impending or actual litigation involving the school system as a whole or any unit, individual, or groups of individuals connected with the schools. A decision to seek legal advice or assistance on behalf of the school system will normally be made by the superintendent. Such action will be taken as consistent with Board policy and as it meets an obvious need of the District. It may take place as a consequence of formal Board direction. Except in unusual circumstances, all communications between the school attorney and District personnel and Board members will be directed through the superintendent or the president of the Board. If inquiries are addressed directly to the attorney by other district personnel, responses, in writing, will be channeled through the superintendent or the president of the Board. Many types of legal assistance will be considered routine and will not need specific Board approval. However, when the administration concludes that an unusual type or amount of legal service may be required, the Board directs the administration to advise it expeditiously and to seek either initial or continuing authorization for such service. Selection Procedures The school attorney will be appointed or reappointed at the annual organizational meeting. In order to provide an opportunity for firms or attorneys to apply periodically LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BOG Continued for the position, the Board will adhere to the followmg selection procedures every three years: Law firms within the District will be contacted by letter to determine interest in being considered. A survey questionnaire will be sent to firms that indicate an interest. Firms expressing an interest will be interviewed by the Board. Selection Considerations Experience in school law will be an important consideration. The attorney must be willing to: Fees 1. devote the time needed to keep up with school law, attend Board meetings when requested, and respond promptly when legal assistance is requested by the Board or the administration
and 2. participate in state and national organizations of school attorneys and attend meetings sponsored by these and other organizations that deal with school legal problems. The fee schedule for the various types of services rendered (legal research, information, attendance at meetings, in court, etc.) will be established at the time of appointment and/or reappointment. Adopted: January 28, 1999 2 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BDH CONSULTANTS TO THE BOARD The Board of Education may enlist the services of consultants to provide specialized advice or assistance to the District concerning educational, management or administrative matters where an additional opinion or opinions are appropriate or when knowledge or technical skills are needed that cannot be provided by persons on the staff. Where appropriate, bids for consulting services will be sought, but the Board will have ultimate discretion with respect to selection. Consultants who serve this District will exercise no authority over the work of the employees of the District, but will act only as advisor in the field in which they are qualified to offer assistance . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BE SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS The Little Rock School District Board of Education will meet in regular session once each month in the Board Room of the Little Rock School District Administration Building at 810 West Markham. A twelve-month calendar of Board meetings will be approved prior to the beginning of each school year. Changes in the site, date, or time of any meeting may be made by a vote of the Board . The Board may also meet to set the agenda, conduct work sessions, and participate in Board retreats. All meetings of the Board of Education will be open to the public and will be governed by the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act. Newspapers, television and radio stations will be notified at least two (2) hours prior to all regular and special Board meetings . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: A.C.A. 6-13-619, 25-19-101 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEA REGULAR BOARD MEETINGS The regular meeting of the Little Rock School District Board of Education will be held on the fourth Thursday of each month in the Boardroom of the Administration Building at 6:00 p.m. unless otherwise set by action of the Board. Board members will receive copies of the final agenda by Tuesday prior to the ThL,Jrsday regular meeting. All Board meetings are open to the public. The order of business of any regular Board meeting will include an opportunity for citizens to address the Board. Notification of Board meetings will be sent sufficiently in advance to the newspapers, television and radio stations . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: A.C.A. 6-13-619, 25-19-101 et seq. Cross References: Board of Education Policies BE, BEDH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEB SPECIAL SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS Special meetings of the Little Rock School District Board of Education may be called in four (4) ways. 1. By the Board president 2. By the Board secretary 3. By any three (3) members of the Board 4. By petition signed by fifty (50) electors in the District. No business will be transacted at any special meeting of the Board which does not come within the purpose set forth in the call for the meeting unless all members of the Board are present and agree to the consideration of the additional items. All special meetings will be open to the public. All Board members will be given reasonable notification of the special meeting. The news media will be notified at least two (2) hours prior to the meeting . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: AC.A. 6-13-619, 25-19-101 et seq. Cross References: Board of Education Policies BE, BEDA LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEC EXECUTIVE SESSIONS During a regular or special meeting Board members may vote to go into executive session which is closed to the public and the media. Executive sessions are permitted only for the purpose of considering employment, appointment, promotion, demotion, disciplining, or resignation of a public officer or employee. The superintendent at the invitation of the Board may attend all executive sessions except those that pertain to the superintendent's contract. The immediate supervisor of the employee involved and the employee may be present at the executive session when so requested by the Board. Also, any person being interviewed for superintendent may be present when so requested by the Board. No minutes are taken during executive session. That such a meeting is held will be recorded in the minutes of the open meeting. In accordance with law, no official action may be taken in executive session. To take final action on any matter discussed, the Board will reconvene and act upon the matter in open session. Board members, the superintendent and other persons attending the executive session are duty-bound not to disclose matters discussed in executive session. Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: A.C.A. 25-19-106 Cross Reference: Board of Education Policy BEDG LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BED MEETING PROCEDURES The Little Rock School District Board of Education uses certain procedures for conducting business. Except as specifically altered herein, all meetings will be conducted according to Robert's Rules of Order Revised. Agenda For regular Board meetings the superintendent will determine which administrative items will be placed on the agenda. Board members may request items placed on the agenda. The Board will have until noon on Friday of the week it receives the proposed agenda to request additional items be placed on the agenda or to object to items on the agenda. For special Board meetings the superintendent in consultation with the Board president will set the agenda item(s). Board members may request an item be placed on the agenda by submitting the request at least two (2) days prior to the meeting . All Board meetings will be conducted in accordance with the printed agenda unless the Board votes to suspend the rules for the purpose of considering an item of business. Order of Business The order of business of all regular meetings will be as follows: Preliminary items: Roll Call, Recognitions, Superintendent's Report, Board of Education Report, Public Communications and Petitions. Consent agenda: Routine items of business will be placed on the agenda under "Disposition of Routine Business by Consent" and will be introduced by the superintendent. If a Board member has a question about any item on the consent agenda, that item will be pulled from the consent agenda and considered as a separate agenda item immediately following "Disposition of Routine Business by Consent". Other items on the agenda for Board action and/or discussion will generally be handled as follows: The Board President will identify the item. The superintendent will make his/her recommendation . A Board member will present the motion and receive a second. LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BED (continued) The superintendent or a designated administrator will be available to make a brief explanation of the item and respond to questions from the Board. Board members will discuss the item. The Board President will call for the vote. Closing items: Administration Reports, Announcements, Hearings. Adjournment Minutes will be recorded at all Board meetings and kept on file. Meetings will also be recorded on tape . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: AC.A. 6-13-619 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BE, BEA, BEDS, BEDC, BEDD, BEDDB,BEDF,BEDH,BEE 2 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEDA NOTIFICATION OF BOARD MEETINGS At the beginning of each school year the Board will approve a calendar of regular Board meeting and agenda meeting dates and times. This calendar will be made available to the news media and to anyone requesting this information. In the event of a special Board meeting the news media will be notified of the time, place and date of the meeting at least two (2) hours prior to the meeting. Board members will be notified as early as possible . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: A.C.A. 25-19-106 (2) Cross References: Board of Education Policies BE, BEA, BEB LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEDS AGENDA An agenda for each regular meeting of the Little Rock School District Board of Education will be prepared by the superintendent. The method used by the superintendent to establish the Board agenda must provide an opportunity for the Board members to voice objections or add items. The agenda will contain all, but only those items introduced by the Board members and superintendent. Only action items scheduled in the agenda will be acted upon in the regular Board meeting unless a suspension of the rules is approved by Board members. The order of business at a regular meeting of the Board of Education will be as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Call to Order Roll Call Procedural Matters: a. President's Welcome b. Approval of Regular Agenda Recognitions and Public Comments Reports and Communications a. Board Members b. Administration Approval of Minutes Action Items a. Instructional Services Division b. Administrative Services Division c. Financial Services Division d. School.Services Division e. Operations Division 8. Closing Remarks / Superintendent's Report 9. Adjournment Board members will receive a copy of the official agenda at least forty-eight (48) hours prior to the regular Board meeting. All supporting materials for action items will be provided to Board members one week prior to the regular meeting. Copies of the agenda for the public will be available in the superintendent's office. Revised: July 23, 2001 Adopted: January 28, 1999 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BE, BEA, BED, BEDD, BEDDB, BEDG, BEDH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEDC QUORUM A majority of the Board of Education will constitute a quorum. A quorum must be present to convene a meeting that would enable the Board to conduct business . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: A.C .A. 6-13-619 / LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEDD RULES OF ORDER The Board will observe Robert's Rules of Order Revised except as otherwise provided by policy or by statute . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEDDB SUSPENSION OF RULES OF ORDER The Board of Education may suspend its parliamentary rules of order by a vote of consent of at least five (5) members . Adopted : January 28, 1999 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BED, BEDB, BEDD LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEDF VOTING METHOD A majority of the Board will constitute a quorum. A majority of a quorum voting affirmatively will be required for the passage of any motion or resolution. Any member who abstains from voting will be counted as having voted against the motion or resolution. If a member announces a conflict of interest with regard to the issue, the member may leave the meeting until the voting on the issue is concluded, and the member who abstains from voting thereby will not be counted as having voted. The rules of parliamentary procedure comprised in Robert's Rules of Order Revised will govern the Board of Education in its deliberations. The rules may be suspended at any meeting by a vote of consent of at least five Board members. The President of the Board will vote on motions before the Board. When a tie vote exists on a motion, the motion will be declared to have failed. The individual votes of Board members will be recorded in the minutes when the vote is not unanimous . A role call vote may be requested by any member of the Board. The secretary will call the roll in alphabetical order. Board members voting or. the prevailing side of an issue may move to reconsider an item. Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: A.C.A. 6-13-619 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BED, BEDC, BEDD, BEDDB, BEDG LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEDG MINUTES The official minutes of the Little Rock School District Board of Education regular and special meetings will constitute the written record of Board action. The secretary for the Board will be responsible for reporting in the minutes all actions taken by the Board. The minutes will include the time, date, and location of each meeting, the members present and absent, all motions made, the name of the Board member making the motion, the name of the Board member who seconded the motion, a summary statement of the discussion, and a record of the vote. The record of the vote will show how individual members voted unless the vote in unanimous. The minutes will also include a summary statement of presentations and reports made at the meeting. The minutes of the Board will be filed in a permanent record at the Little Rock School District Administration Building. This record will also contain a copy of all budgets of the District and all reports of the Pulaski County Treasurer on the financial affairs of the District. A copy of the minutes will be made available during regular office hours to any citizen desiring to examine them. Minutes that are awaiting approval at the next Board meeting become public documents after they are transcribed into typewritten material. The minutes become official when they are approved by majority vote of the Board. Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal References: A.C.A. 6-13-619, 25-19-105 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BE, BEA, BEB, BEDF, BEDH, BEE LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEDH PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AT BOARD MEETINGS Regular and special Board meetings, Board agenda meetings, and Board work sessions are open to the public. The public is cordially invited to attend Board meetings. Board meetings are conducted for the purpose of carrying on the official business of the District. Minutes of every regular and special Board meeting record the action taken and are available to the public during normal business hours. At all regular meetings of the Little Rock School District Board of Education there will be an opportunity for the public to address the Board. Citizens desiring to address the Board are asked to call the superintendent's office by 5:00 p.m. the day of the Board meeting to place their name on the list of speakers. Guidelines for public participation will be provided at each meeting. To have an item placed on the Board agenda a citizen should submit the request to the Board President or the Superintendent for consideration. The requesting party will be notified of the result of the request. Adopted: January 28, 1999 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BED, BEA, BED, BEDB,BEDG LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BEE BOARD HEARINGS/APPEAL PROCEEDINGS It is the intent of the Board of Education of the Little Rock School District that any employee who appeals a grievance or other personnel action will receive a fair and impartial hearing pursuant to the policies of the Little Rock School District and applicable state and federal laws. It is also the Board's intent that any student who appeals a disciplinary recommendation will receive a fair and impartial hearing. In order to ensure that these objectives are met, Board members will not receive ex parte written information or engage in discussions, including telephone calls, concerning the merits of any personnel action or student disciplinary action which may result in an appeal to the Board. Any Board member who receives such information, or is otherwise approached prior to a hearing, will have grounds to disqualify himself or herself from participating in the hearing. It is the responsibility of each Board member to inform any teacher, student, school patron or other person who may attempt to discuss or provide information on a pending action of the Board's policy and the consequences. The Board may set a reasonable time limit (to be shared by the parties to the appeal) for the hearing, taking into consideration the amount of evidence and witnesses to be presented. The parties will be informed of the amount of time set aside for the hearing at the beginning of the hearing. The Board expects the parties to make all reasonable efforts to present their respective cases within the allotted time. If the hearing cannot be completed in the amount of time allotted, the Board will have the option of continuing the hearing or adjourning to reconvene at a later date. If the Board adjourns prior to the conclusion of the hearing, no member will discuss the case with either of the parties, other Board members, or any other person until it reconvenes to conclude the hearing. Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BF SCHOOL BOARD WORK SESSIONS AND RETREATS The Little Rock School District Board of Education may schedule work sessions and retreats from time to time in order to informally discuss in detail proposed policies, program changes or other items of information requiring in-depth examination. All work sessions and retreats are open to the public. No formal action will be taken by the Board at such sessions . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: AC.A. 25-19-106 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BE, BEDH LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BG SCHOOL BOARD POLICY The Board of Education has the jurisdiction to legislate policy for the District and considers policy development one of its chief responsibilities. Board policy is to provide guidelines and goals for the development of administrative regulations that direct the daily operations of the District. The following process will be used to develop and adopt Board policy: 1. A policy may be proposed by board members, the superintendent, staff members, students, and community members. 2. Written policy proposals will be submitted to the superintendent for research to assure the integrity of the resulting policy statement. 3. The superintendent will bring policy proposals to the Board and will keep the Board informed of necessary policies or changes needed to existing policies . 4. The Board will give the proposed policy a first reading and allow for feedback from interested persons. 5. The proposed policy may be modified or changed before returning it to the Board for a second reading. Based on the extent of modifications or changes in the policy after the first reading, the Board may decide to defer the second reading to the next regularly scheduled monthly Board meeting. 6. Second reading is the final approval step by the Board. Second reading is to occur no sooner than the next regularly scheduled monthly Board meeting unless in the unanimous opinion of the Board members present, second reading should occur earlier. 7. The superintendent will disseminate approved policy statements and develop regulations if and as required to ensure appropriate implementation. 8. The Board and superintendent will work together to keep Board policies and the Board's policy manual up-to-date. The Board endorses the policy development, codification and dissemination system of the National School Boards Association 's National Education Policy Network (NSBA/N EPN ) . Adopted: March 25, 1999 Cross References: Board of Education Policies BGD and BGE LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BGD REVIEW OF REGULATIONS The Board of Education reserves the right to review regulations issued by the administration, but it will revise or veto such regulations only when, in the Board's judgement, the regulations are inconsistent with policies adopted by the Board. Regulations will be officially approved by the Board when this is required by state law or when strong community, staff or student attitudes make it advisable for the regulation to have Board approval. Officially approved regulations will be included as part of the appropriate Board policy . Adopted: March 25, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BGE POLICY COMMUNICATION The superintendent will establish and maintain an orderly plan for preserving and making accessible the policies and regulations of the District. Accessibility will extend to students, staff members, members of the Board, and to persons in the community. All staff members are expected to know and observe the District policies and regulations. Each school will be furnished a copy of the policy manual. The superintendent will arrange for school employees to be informed of new policies and revision of existing policies . Adopted: March 25, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BH SCHOOL BOARD COMMUNICATIONS It is the belief of the Board of Education that keeping open communications with the public is critical to its proper functioning. Through the procedures below, the Board will ensure that its members have knowledge of the communications directed to it from the public, and the public will know that Board members have received the communications. All communications received by the District which are addressed to the Board will be copied and distributed to all Board members, either in the agenda materials for the next meeting or at the beginning of the meeting. Significant complaints or communications from teachers, parents, or pa_trons to individual Board members or to the Board as a whole, will be conveyed to the office of the superintendent. Communications to individual Board members requesting action or a statement of view may be acknowledged . It is recommended that an answer which commits the Board member should be avoided until the full Board has reviewed the issue. Statements of a Board member's opinion to any citizen will be clearly identified as an individual opinion which does not necessarily reflect the thinking of the entire Board. Channels of communications will be kept free and open in reaching decisions. Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BHA SCHOOL DISTRICT LOGO The Board of Education will approve the District logo. This logo can be used to identify schools, departments, and services of the Little Rock School District. Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BIB BOARD MEMBER DEVELOPMENT In order to perform their responsibilities to the electorate, the state, and the students, Board members are encouraged to participate in professional development activities. New Board members are required by law to receive a minimum of six (6) hours training and instruction in the school laws of this state and in the laws governing the powers, duties, and responsibilities of school boards. All Board members are encouraged to participate in school board and related workshops sponsored by local, state, and national school boards and education associations. The Board will pay the necessary expenses of assigned Board members who attend meetings and conventions pertaining to school activities and the objectives of the Board. The Board on a case-by-case basis will determine and limit the number of Board members authorized to attend specific workshops and conventions where the expenses involved warrant such limitations. Adopted: March 25, 1999 Legal Reference: A.C.A. 6-13-629 Cross Reference: Board of Education Policy BID LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BID BOARD MEMBER COMPENSATION Board of Education members will be reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in carrying out Board business at the Board's request and for reasonable expenses incurred while attending meetings and conventions as official representatives of the Board . Reimbursements to Board members will be based on District travel regulations and will be drawn from the District's budget allocation for Board expenses . Adopted: March 25, 1999 Cross Reference: Board of Education Policy BIB LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BJ SCHOOL BOARD LEGISLATIVE PROGRAM The Board, as an agent of the State, must operate within the bounds of state and federal laws affecting public education. The Board will work vigorously for the passage of new laws designed to advance the cause of good schools and for the repeal or modification of existing laws that impede this cause. To this end: The Board will keep itself informed of pending legislation and actively communicate its concerns and make its position known to elected representatives at both the state and national level. The Board will work with its legislative representatives (both state and federal), with the Arkansas School Board Association, the National Schools Board Association, and other concerned groups in developing an annual, as well as long-range, legislative program. One of the major objectives of the Board's legislative program will be to seek full funding for all state and federally mandated programs. The Board will annually designate a person who may or may not be a member of the Board to serve as its legislative representative. In all dealings with individual elected representatives, the legislature, or Congress, the Board's representative will be guided by the official positions taken by the Board. Legislative Representative A legislative representative will serve as the Board's liaison with the Arkansas School Board Association. The legislative representative will attend Arkansas School Board, Association meetings conveying our views and concerns to that body and participating in the formulation of state legislative programs. The legislative representative will monitor proposed school legislation and inform the Board of the issues. Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: BK SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERSHIPS IN PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS The Little Rock School District Board of Education will maintain memberships in national and state school boards associations and take an active part in the activities of these groups. The Board may also maintain institutional memberships in other educational organizations that the executive officer and Board find to be of benefit to members and district personnel. The materials and benefits of institutional membership will be distributed and used to the best advantage of the Board and the staff . Adopted: January 28, 1999 C. Uenera Administration SECTION C: GENERAL SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION Section.C.of the Little-Rock School Distr.ict.policy manual contains policies, regulations, and exhibits on school management, administrative organization and school building and department administration - including the administrative aspect of special programs and systemwide reforms such as school or site-based management. It also houses personnel policies on the superintendent, senior administrators (management team), and school principals. All phases of policy implementation - procedures of regulations - are properly located in this section. CB CBA CBD CBG CBI cc CF CFD CH CHD Cl Superintendent of Schools Qualifications and Duties of the Superintendent Superintendent's Contract Superintendent's Professional Development Opportunities Evaluation of the Superintendent Administrative Organization School Building Administration Campus Leadership Policy Implementation Administration in the Absence of Policy Temporary Administrative Assignments LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CB SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS The superintendent of schools will be the Chief Executive Officer of the Board and the administrative head of all divisions and departments of the District. The superintendent may delegate responsibility for the operation of various segments of the District, but he/she will always be responsible to, and must regularly report to, the Board of Education . Adopted: January 28, 1999 Legal Reference: Arkansas School Laws
Section 80-534, Section 2-001A LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CSA QUALIFICATIONS AND DUTIES OF THE SUPERINTENDENT The qualifications and duties of the Superintendent are as follows: TITLE: Superintendent of Schools 1. Must hold an Administrator's Certificate in school administration from the state of Arkansas 2. Minimum of a Master's degree 3. Successful experience as an administrator in an urban setting REPORTS TO: Board of Education SUPERVISES: Directly, or through delegation, all Little Rock School District employees JOB GOAL: To provide the best possible educational programs and services for the children in the Little Rock School District. AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY: 1. Provides leadership for the educational system. 2. Informs the Board of the needs, conditions, and accomplishments of all schools in the District. 3. Proposes needed policy and procedure changes for Board consideration. 4. Maintains citizen support for public education in Little Rock . 5. Maintains communication with the Board, staff, students, and community. LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CBA 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. (continued) Assures procedures to identify the needs of students. Assures the development, implementation and evaluation of programs to meet the needs of students. Develops and recommends a budget that reflects the needs and priorities of the District. Maintains a highly qualified, dedicated, and effective staff. Generates additional school income through appropriate sources. Coordinates with agencies and institutions whose activities affect the Little Rock School District. Assures effective use of physical, fiscal, and human resources . Performs such other tasks as may from time to time be assigned by the Board. TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Twelve months a year
contract term and salary to be negotiated with the Board. EVALUATION: The Board will evaluate the Superintendent's performance in accordance with a mutually agreed upon process and procedure . Adopted: January 28, 1999 2 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CBD SUPERINTENDENT'S CONTRACT A. Term of Employment The superintendent will be employed by a written contract with a term of not more than three years. Specific terms of the contract are included in the "Superintendent's Employment Agreement" and are part of the public record . B. Contract Extension The superintendent's contract may be renewed annually at the time of re-election for a term not to exceed three years . Adopted : January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CBG SUPERINTENDENT'S PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES The Board encourages the superintendent to make every effort to stay abreast of educational trends and use opportunities for exploring new ideas and programs that may be advantageous to the school district. For the benefit of the entire school system, the Board encourages the superintendent to set aside time each year to attend certain seminars and conferences and visit other school systems where innovative, creative programs are being demonstrated . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CBI EVALUATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT Through evaluation of the superintendent, the Board will strive to: 1. Clarify for the superintendent his/her role in the school system as seen by the Board 2. Clarify for all Board members the role of the superintendent in light of his/her job description and the immediate priorities among his/her responsibilities as agreed upon by the Board and the superintendent 3. Develop harmonious working relationships between the Board and superintendent 4. Provide effective administrative leadership for the school system The Board will provide the superintendent with periodic opportunities to discuss Superintendent-Board relationships . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CC ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION The legal authority of the Board is transmitted through the superintendent along specific paths from person to person as shown in the Board-approved organizational chart of the district (see Exhibit CC). The lines of authority on the chart represent direction of authority and responsibility. The Superintendent may reorganize lines of authority and revise the organization chart subject to Board approval of major changes and/or the elimination and creation of positions. The Board expects the superintendent to keep the administrative structure up to date with the needs for supervision and accountability throughout the school system . Adopted: January 28, 1999 I Administrat ive Services org chart 04-23-98 I Disc ipline Altemativ Student A Pupil Human e Education ssignment Services Resources I I I BOARD OF DIRECTORS ~ I SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS I I Special Assistant I I Labor Relations ~ I Communications Ir I Technology ~ I .. School Services I Instruction I I Elementary Assistant Reading/Language Arts Planning/Research/Evaluation Secondary Assistant Mathematics/Science Exceptional Children Accelerated Learning Social Studies Grants Writer Athletics Staff Development New Futures HIPPY Federal Programs Career & Technical Parent Involvement Adult Education VIPS Early Childhood I I I I Operali ans 1_ ___ _ Financial S ervices udilor ment rvices curity Internal A Procure Plant Se Safety/Se Child Nut Transport rition ation I LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CF SCHOOL BUILDING ADMINISTRATION The Board affirms the rights and responsibilities of the building principals for the administration of their various programs and buildings within the broad scope of adopted board policies. Therefore, acting with the approval of the superintendent, the principal is the chief administrator of his/her school. All professional and support staff personnel assigned to a building will be directly res~onsible to the principal. The principal is the professional leader in the implementation of the educational program, the improvement of instruction and interpretation of the school's program to the community . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CFO CAMPUS LEADERSHIP 1 I The Board of ucation of the Little Rock School District believes that a fundamental responsibility oft school system is to support the sustained improvement of the schools. Site-base decision making provides each school with a framework to attain the District's mission. Shared decision-making allows ~presentation of administration, staff, students, parents, and patrons to provide more efficient use of time and energy. This facilitates a quality !ironment for students, ? productive working environment for staff members, and increa ed opportunity for community involvement in our schools. To effect this belief, it is the p icy of the Board of Education of the LRSD, that each school will establish a campus I adership te9m to improve performance of all student populations. This team will assis n the deVelopment and evaluation of campus goals and objectives through planning, b ~geting, curriculum development, staff development, and staffing needs. Th1:_ough consensus based decisions, the campus teams will support the District's commitment to the sustained improvement of schools . Adop{ed: July 9, 1998 9oss Reference: Administrative Regulation CFD-R I LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CFO CAMPUS LEADERSHIP The Board of Education of the Little Rock School District believes that a fundamental responsibility of the school system is to support the sustained improvement of the schools. Site-based decision-making provides each school with a framework to attain the District's mission. Shared decision-making allows representation of administration, staff, students, parents, and patrons to provide more efficient use of time and energy. This facilitates a quality environment for students, a productive working environment for staff members, and increased opportunity for community involvement in our schools. To effect this belief, it is the policy of the Board of Education of the LRSD, that each school will establish a campus leadership team to improve performance of all student populations. This team will assist in the development and evaluation of campus goals and objectives through planning, budgeting, curriculum development, staff development, and staffing needs. Through consensus based decisions, the campus teams will support the District's commitment to the sustained improvement of schools . Adopted: July 9, 1998 RS FfB 6 liff/Cf Of DE$fGREGATION MONITORING Legal References: A.C.A 6-13-1301 through 6-13-1309 Cross Reference: LRSD Campus Leadership Handbook ' . Board of Education Policies and Regulations Corrected Copy of CFO February 1, 2001 Remove CFO and replace with new CFO. NOTE: The cross reference changed and the legal references were added. There was no revision to the body . LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CH POLICY IMPLEMENTATION The superintendent has responsibility for carrying out, through supplementary regulations and directives, the policies and regulations established by the Board. The policies developed by the Board and the regulations and directives developed to implement policy are designed to achieve an effective and efficient school system. All Board members, district employees, and students are expected to abide by them. Administrators and supervisors are responsible for informing staff members in their schools, departments, or units of existing policies and regulations and for seeing that they are implemented in the spirit intended. Within the policies and regulations of the Board and the regulations of the superintendent, principals are authorized to establish rules and procedures for the staff and students of their schools . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: CHO ADMINISTRATION IN THE ABSENCE OF POLICY In the absence of Board policy relating to a specific situation, the superintendent will use his/her best judgment in arriving at a decision. If possible, action in the absence of policy will be deferred until the Board has had time to adopt a policy to govern the situation in question. If it is necessary to take action, the superintendent will make a decision based on the spirit and tenor of other existing policies. Following this action, the superintendent will notify the Board and will recommend to the Board whether or not a policy should be written to cover similar incidents . Adopted: January 28, 1999 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: Cl TEMPORARY ADMINISTRATIVE ARRANGEMENTS The superintendent is authorized to appoint an acting superintendent to serve for specified periods of time during his/her temporary absence from duty. A temporary absence is defined as a vacation period, attendance at national conventions, and/or any other periods when the superintendent is out of the District for more than 24 hours. When so appointed , the acting superintendent will assume all duties which are the responsibility of the superintendent of schools, with particular emphasis on emergency and day-to-day decision-making. The acting superintendent will not be expected to deal with matters requiring long-term planning or preparation unless specifically so assigned by the superintendent. The acting superintendent will take special care to keep the Board informed as to any departure from normal routine . In the event of a vacancy in the office of superintendent of schools, or in the event of incapacitation of the superintendent, the responsibility for the appointment of an acting superintendent rests with the Board . Adopted: January 28, 1999 D. Fiscal Management SECTION D: FISCAL MANAGEMENT Section D of the Little Rock School District policy manual contains policies, regulations, and exhibits on school finances and the management of funds. Policies on the financing of school construction and renovation, however, are filed in Section F, Facilities Development. DA DB DBB DBG DBJ DC DCA DCA-R DD DE DEA DFA DFB DFC DFD DFD-R1 DFD-R2 DFE DFF DG DG-R DGA DGE DH DI DIB DIC DID DID-R Fiscal Management Goals/Priority Objectives Annual Budget Fiscal Year Budget Adoption Process Budget Transfers and Adjustments Taxing and Borrowing Management of Capital Projects Fund Management of Capital Projects Fund Funding Proposals, Grants and Special Projects Revenues From Tax Sources Funds From Local Tax Sources Revenues From Investments/Use of Surplus Funds Revenues From School-Owned Real Estate Leasing of District Facilities Gate Receipts and Admissions Activity Scheduling and Gate Receipts Athletic Gate Receipts and Admissions Royalties Income From School Sales and Services Banking Services Banking Services Authorized Signatures Personal Debts of Employees Bonded Employees and Officers Fiscal Accounting and Reporting Types of Funds Financial Reports and Statements Inventories Inventories Section D - Page 1 of 2 DIE Audits/Financial Monitoring DJ Purchasing DJ-R1 Procurement Regulations DJC Petty Cash DJC-R Petty Cash DJD Cooperative Purchasing and Resource Sharing DJGA Sales Calls and Demonstrations DK Payment Procedures/Disbursements DKC Out of Area Travel DKC-R Travel Expense Authorization/Reimbursement DLA Employee Benefits Administration DM Cash in School Buildings DN School Property Disposal DN-R School Property Disposal Procedures Section D - Page 2 of 2 SECTION D: FISCAL MANAGEMENT Section D of the Little Rock School District policy manual contains policies, gulations, and exhibits on school finances and the management of funds. Policies o the financing of school construction and renovation, however, are filed in S tion F, Facilities Development. DA DB DBB DBG DBJ DC DCA DCA-R DD DE DEA DFD DFD-R1 DFD-R2 DG DG-R DGA DH Fiscal Management Goals/Priority Objectives nnual Budget Fiscal Year dget Adoption Process Bu et Transfers and Adjustments Taxing an Borrowing Manage ent of Capital Projects F Managem t of Capital Projects n Revenues From Tax Funds From Local Gate Receipts a s Activity Scheduli eceipts Athletic Gate Re issions Banking Services Banking Services Authorized s natures DI Fiscal Ace nting and Reporting DIB Types f Funds DIC Fina cial Reports and Statements DJC DJC-R DK DKC DKC-R DM yment Procedures/Disbursements Out of Area Travel Travel Expense Authorization/Reimbursement Cash in School Buildings RECEIVED JUN 16 2000 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING - SECTION D: FISCAL MANAGEMENT Section D of the Little Rock School District policy manual contains policies, regulations, and exhibits on school finances and the management of funds. Policies on the financing of school construction and renovation, however, are filed in Section F, Facilities Development. DA Fiscal Management Goals/Priority Objectives DB Annual Budget DBB Fiscal Year I R'l -t.c.' ~":Jl\l!i'' iEO DBG Budget Adoption Process ,, 7GG0 DBJ Budget Transfers and Adjustments ~.?R 0 - DC Taxing and Borrowing / Gfr\Ct Cr rors OEStGREGAi'O~l tAul\10 ,t DD Funding Proposals, Grants nd Special Projects DE Revenues From Tax Sources DEA Funds From Local-fax Sources DG Banking Services DG-R Banking Service DGA Authorized ignatures DH Bonded Efl)ployees and Officers DI Fisca~ccounting and Reporting DIB Ty es of Funds DIC Fi ancial Reports and Statements DJC Petty Cash DJC-R Petty Cash DK Payment Procedures/Disbursements DM I Cash in School Buildings APR 5 2000 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT rm=Ir.F OF DESEGREGATION ?10NITORING NEPN CODE: DA FISCAL MANAGEMENT GOALS/PRIORITY OBJECTIVES It is the policy of the Board of Education to accept only new programs or services that are consistent with legal requirements of court agreements, law, or Board adopted planning documents such as the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan of 1998, the Strategic Plan, and their successors. The quantity and quality of learning programs are directly dependent on the funding provided and the effective, efficient management of those funds. The District's mission and objectives can best be achieved through excellent fiscal management. As trustee of local, state, and federal funds allocated for use in public education, the Board will be vigilant in fulfilling its responsibility to see that these funds are used wisely for achievement of the purposes to which they are allocated. In the District's fiscal management, the Board will achieve the following: align resources with programs and services set forth in Board adopted planning documents including the Revised Desegregation and Education Plan of 1998, the Strategic Plan and any successors of these plans
engage in thorough advanced planning in order to develop budgets and to guide expenditures to achieve the greatest educational returns and the greatest contributions to the educational program
establish levels of funding which will provide high quality education for the students of the District
use the best available techniques and processes for budget development and management
ensure effective and timely communication of financial information between the Board and all staff with fiscal management responsibilities
and establish and implement efficient procedures for accounting, reporting, investing, purchasing and delivery, payroll, payment of vendors and contractors, and all other areas of fiscal management. APR 5 2000 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT OfflC! Or NEPN CODE: DA o::SEGREGATlm MONITORING (continued) Planning During the annual budget planning process, the Board will review the financial resources of the District, ensure alignment of resources with programs and services set forth in Board adopted planning documents and update the five-year fiscal plan. Budgeting The budget is the expression of the plans of the Board in financial terms. The District will express those plans through two budget components: Operating - budgeting for the provision of annual resources. Capital - budgeting for the provision of necessary sites, buildings and equipment. The annual budget will be available to the public. Members of the public, as well as the internal school community, will be given opportunities to provide input to the budget process. Implementation and Control The budget, once approved by the Board, is considered a statement, in financial terms, of the operational plans for the District. Therefore, a system of fiscal control must be established to govern the administration of the budget and the receipt and expenditure of funds. Implementation and control will be governed by the following provisions: The superintendent has authority to authorize expenditure of funds within the limit of an adopted budget in conformity with Board policy, procedure and legal requirements. The Board may direct the superintendent as to expenditure limitations or reporting requirements on specific sections of the budget. The superintendent may authorize transfers of up to $50,000 from one function code to another with Board notification
transfers over that amount are subject to the approval of the Board. The superintendent will establish procedures which clearly delegate authority to expend funds within each budget program, establish accountability for those expenditures, and outline methods of control. To maintain necessary service levels, additional revenue generated by increased enrollments may be expended with the superintendent's authorization. The plan for 2 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: DA (continued) such expenditures will be presented to the Board prior to expenditure. Expenditures of additional revenue, except as indicated above or in the event of an emergency, require Board approval. Adjustments required to accommodate reduced revenues will also be reported to the Board. Expenditures from any program will be for the purposes indicated in the budget unless variation is authorized as provided in this policy. No individual or group with delegated authority and accountability for a program or portion thereof will expend funds beyond the budget for that account without the written authorization of the superintendent or his/her designee. A deficit will not be permitted without formal approval of the Board and the Arkansas Department of Education. The Board will be provided a monthly financial report. - The Board will have full access to financial information. The superintendent is authorized to make necessary adjustments or to exceed budgeted amounts to handle emergencies, provided that the Board is advised immediately. Adopted: March 24, 2000 Legal References: AC.A. 6-20-101 through 6-21-711 ti.PR 5 2000 omcE or OESEGREGAi\ml MONITORING Cross References: Board of Education Policies BA, BAA, BSA 3 LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT NEPN CODE: DB ANNUAL BUDGET The annual budget is the financial plan for the operation of the District. It provides the framework for both expenditures and revenues for the year and translates into financial terms the educational programs and priorities for the District. The Board expects the superintendent to work closely with administrative staff and principals to identify the needs of the District and each local school. After a proposed budget has been developed for each cost center, the superintendent, with the help of his/her staff, will coordinate the requests and present a recommended budget to the Board. Adopted: March 24, 2000 Legal References: AC.A. 6-20-1301 through 6-20-1304 APR 5 ZDGU Cffit: r~ DESESREG.ID?' t':: }iIT~rJ
G LITTLE R
This project was supported in part by a Digitizing Hidden Special Collections and Archives project grant from the The Andrew W.
This project was supported in part by a Digitizing Hidden Special Collections and Archives project grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and Council on Library and Information Resoources.