604.10 VIRTUAL/ON-LINE COURSES
604.10 VIRTUAL/ON-LINE COURSESThe board recognizes that online coursework may be a good alternative for students to not only meet graduation requirements but, also have the opportunity to take advanced or other courses not offered by the school district.
High school students may earn a maximum of 50 credits to be applied toward graduation requirements by completing online courses offered through agencies approved by the board and the Iowa Department of Education, such as Iowa Learning Online (ILO). Credit from an on-line or virtual course may be earned only in the following circumstances:
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The course is not offered at the high school;
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Although the course is offered at the high school, the student will not be able to take it due to an unavoidable scheduling conflict that would keep the student from meeting graduation requirements;
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The course will serve as a supplement to extend homebound instruction;
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The student has been expelled from the regular school setting, but educational services are to be continued; or,
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The principal, with agreement from the student's teachers and parents, determines the student requires a differentiated or accelerated learning environment. (such as Emmetsburg Alternative Learning Center or Accelerated Program courses)
Students applying for permission to take an online course shall complete prerequisites and provide teacher/counselor recommendations to confirm the student possesses the maturity level needed to function effectively in the online learning environment. In addition, the express approval of the principal shall be obtained before a student enrolls in an on-line course. The school must receive an official record of the student’s final percentage score and suggested grade before credit toward graduation will be recognized.
Provided online courses are part of the student’s regular school day coursework and within budgetary parameters, the tuition costs for an online course shall be borne by the school district during the fall and spring semesters, but may be passed on to the parent/guardian during the summer semester. Any additional costs such as textbooks, rentals or school supplies, shall be borne by the parents for students enrolled full-time.
It is the responsibility of the superintendent to develop administrative regulations to implement this policy.
Legal Reference: Iowa Code § 256.9(56); 279.8.
281 I.A.C. 15
Cross Reference: 605.6 Internet Appropriate Use
501.6 Student Transfers In
Approved 1/16/19 Reviewed __________ Revised __________
604.11 Appropriate Use of Online learning Platforms
604.11 Appropriate Use of Online learning PlatformsPolicy 604.11 APPROPRIATE USE OF ONLINE LEARNING PLATFORMS
It is important to embrace technology that can foster a creative, interactive learning environment for students, and facilitate employee professional development and collaboration. The use of online platforms to host remote interaction between students and employees and to facilitate learning is encouraged in the district.
While student and employee instruction and communication using virtual and online platforms provides a wide array of learning opportunities, it is imperative that employees and students recognize that the use of such platforms is a privilege. Training related to the use of online learning platforms will be provided to employees and students.
The district shall carefully safeguard the right of students and employees to learn and teach in a respectful environment regardless of the method. All instruction and communication through online learning platforms should be appropriate to the age and ability of the participants. Students and employees should be aware that online platforms may be monitored by the district. Verbal and written communication occurring on these platforms may be recorded and stored by the district in accordance with applicable laws.
Any verbal or written communication on these platforms deemed to be inappropriate will subject the student and/or employee to the same disciplinary measures that would exist if the interaction took place through traditional in-person learning. Students and employees who have concerns about the proper use of these platforms are encouraged to speak with their teachers or building principal. The superintendent will make administrative regulations necessary to enforce this policy.
Legal Reference:
20 U.S.C. §1232g; 34 C.F.R. Part 99
Cross Reference:
104 Anti-Bullying/Anti-Harassment
401.13 Staff Technology Use/Social Networking
506.1 Student Records
605.4 Technology in the Classroom
605.6 Internet Appropriate Use
501.6 Student Transfers In
Approved 8/19/2020 Reviewed __ Revised __________