For Office Use Only: JO-C.1F (7/04)

For the purposes of this policy, the following terms are defined:

Student -- any person who attends or has attended a school in the school district and for whom the district maintains education records.

Eligible Student -- a student or former student who has reached age 18 or is attending a post-secondary school.

Parent -- either a natural parent of a student, a guardian or an individual acting as a parent or guardian in the absence of the student's parent or guardian.

Education Records -- any record (in handwriting, print, tapes, film, computer or other medium) maintained by the school district or an agent of the district that contains information directly related to a student, except:

The following is a list of the types of school records that the district maintains, their location and their custodians.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2002, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: JO-R.1J (7/02)

KNAJ Relations with Law Enforcement Authorities

Open communication with the district's students, parents, patrons and the public in general is essential for the school district to operate effectively. The district will make a systematic effort to communicate with the public using newsletters, student handbooks, local media and the district's website.

Board policies, school building report cards and other public information will be available in the district’s buildings or administrative offices for viewing by the public during the office's normal business hours, as required by law and in accordance with policy BDDL.

The district will utilize the local radio, newspapers and other media to publicize the district's legal obligations as required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and by other applicable law. Notice of district meetings will be made to representatives of the news media, if requested.

The superintendent or designee may adopt administrative procedures to further the goals of this policy.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2001, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: KB-C.1B (8/01)

The minutes, accounts, reports, surveys, memoranda or other documents prepared for the Board, and any other nonconfidential records of the Board, are public documents. They shall be kept in the custody of the superintendent and the Board secretary. The superintendent, Board secretary or a designee will make them available to the public upon request during regular business hours.

Anyone requesting a copy of a public record will be charged the amount for which such duplication costs the district.

Confidential records are not open to the public. These include, but are not limited to, staff and student personnel records, personal correspondence, minutes of executive sessions and records pertaining to such matters as may be discussed in executive session, and all other records closed pursuant to law, to the extent and/or for the time periods set or provided by law.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: KBA-C.1D (3/00)

Patrons of the district are encouraged to express ideas, concerns and comments about school programs through written correspondence, service on citizen advisory committees and responses to surveys authorized by the Board, in accordance with Board policies and procedures for receiving public complaints and public participation at Board meetings, and as otherwise authorized or required for district participation in state and federal programs.

The Board is mindful that it is accountable to the patrons of the district and shall give substantial weight to the advice it receives from individuals and community groups interested in the district's schools. The district is also mindful that it must take into account its responsibility for the welfare of the entire district in arriving at decisions.

The Board recognizes that many residents of the district may be specially qualified to assist and advise the district because of their training, experience or personal characteristics, and the Board encourages them to take an active part in school affairs.

The Board also recognizes that community involvement is not only important at the district level but is often most effective at the school level. Each school in the district will advise patrons about any avenues for providing input unique to that school and will encourage them to take advantage of those opportunities.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2004, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: KC-C.1B (5/04)

As a service to the community and in accordance with state law, the Board of Education may allow the use of public school facilities by individuals, groups and associations for educational, recreational, social, civic, philanthropic and other similar purposes as the Board deems are for the best interests of the community.

Permission to use school facilities will be granted to community organizations and residents by the superintendent, or his or her designee, in keeping with the policies, rules and procedures adopted by the Board. However, such use will not interfere in any way with the regular programs and activities of the school district.

A nominal rental fee to cover operational costs (heat, lights, etc.) and custodial service will be charged in accordance with a schedule recommended by the superintendent and approved by the Board. The fee will not be charged to any school-related organization. The Board may consider waiving the fee for special public programs.

The use of playgrounds and buildings during the summer months for recreational purposes shall be governed by the superintendent according to the Board policies, rules and procedures.

Where possible, a certificate of insurance or hold-harmless agreement shall be provided by the persons or organizations using school facilities.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Legal Refs: § 177.031, RSMo.

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: KG-C.1B (10/89)

The Board of Education encourages the community to direct all gifts, donations or bequests to foundations created to support the district. Gifts, donations and bequests made to foundations are not considered public funds, which allows the district greater flexibility in using the funds. Further, a foundation is eligible for grants and gifts not otherwise available to governmental entities.

All gifts, donations and bequests ("gifts") accepted by the district will become the property of the district, to be expended or used at the discretion of the Board of Education and in accordance with Board policies and law for the benefit of the district as a whole. In general, the superintendent or designee is authorized to accept gifts to the school district, but the Board must take action to accept all contributions that require ongoing annual service, a maintenance fee, significant personnel time, initial or continuing financial commitments from the district or gifts of real property.

In deciding whether to accept a gift, the superintendent, the Board or its designee will minimally consider whether the contribution will further the goals of the district, whether it will be used, whether it is appropriate for the school environment and whether it will unequally distribute resources in the district. No gift will be accepted without verification that there are no encumbrances against the gift.

All gifts accepted will be reported to the Board of Education, publicly announced and appropriately acknowledged. The donor will be officially thanked in the district’s name.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2003, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: KH-C.1A (12/03)

The Board recognizes that business and cultural organizations make available for public use much information that is of great value in advancing student education. Much of this information is not available through other sources.

The objectives of this policy are to:

Salespeople and other persons soliciting information, products or services will not be allowed in the classroom or on the school premises during school hours or school activities to solicit employees or students unless prior approval is given by the building principal. Except as allowed in KG, the facilities, the staff or the students of the district shall not be used in any manner to advertise or promote noneducational interests except that the district may:

In general, the district will not collect, disclose or use personal student information for the purpose of marketing or selling that information or otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose. The Missouri Sunshine Law may require districts to release information collected for other purposes, such as enrollment, if that information was designated as "Directory Information" and parents and students were properly notified. The district has no control over how this information will be used once released, but parents may notify the district in writing if they do not wish to have directory information released to third parties in accordance with policy JO-R.

In the rare case where the district may collect information from students for the purpose of marketing or selling that information, the district will directly notify the parents at least annually at the beginning of the school year of the specific or approximate dates when such information will be collected. Parents, upon request, may inspect any instrument used to collect personal information for the purpose of marketing or selling that information before the instrument is administered or distributed to a student. All parents and students of appropriate age may decline to provide the information requested.

This portion of the policy does not apply to the collection, disclosure or use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating or providing educational products or services for or to students or educational institutions, to the extent allowed by law and Board policy, such as the following:

1. College or other postsecondary education recruitment or military recruitment.

For the purposes of this policy, "personal information" means individually identifiable information including:

1. A student or parent's first and last name.

3. A telephone number.

4. A Social Security identification number.

The district will notify parents at least annually at the beginning of the school year of the portion of this policy regarding collecting, disclosing or using information and within a reasonable time after any substantive change in this policy.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2002, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: KI-C.1C (6/02)

Parents and patrons of the school district may visit district schools and join the Board in improving the instructional program. However, all visitors during the regular school day, including Board members, shall sign or check in at the building office prior to proceeding elsewhere in the building.

The Board and administration will not tolerate any person or persons whose presence disturbs classes or school activities or hinders the instructional process. If such persons will not leave the school premises upon request, the superintendent, building principal or designee may contact the proper legal authorities, file a report or sign a complaint on behalf of the district.

The Board discourages using the school as a site for parents without custody to visit their children. The principal may deny the parent without full or joint legal or physical custody the opportunity to deliver packages, gifts, messages, etc., to the child and/or to see the child during the school day without the approval of the custodial parent or legal guardian.

The Dora R-III School District believes that school events are a vital part of the total educational program and should be used as a means for developing wholesome attitudes, positive social interaction, good sportsmanship and appropriate behavior, in addition to knowledge and skills. Well-organized and well-conducted programs contribute to the morale of the student body, and strengthen school-community relations.

To this end, the Board encourages district patrons to exhibit good sportsmanship, citizenship, ethics and integrity at all district events. The district will work with the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) and other organizations to promote good behavior by the patrons at athletic and other events. The Board will work with parents, alumni associations and local service organizations to keep appropriate behavior a top priority.

The superintendent will establish procedures for crowd control at district events consistent with this policy. In the event that a visitor's or spectator's conduct becomes disruptive, threatening or violent, the superintendent, building principal or designee may request the visitor to leave and may then contact the proper legal authorities if necessary. In extreme situations the superintendent or designee may inform a visitor that he or she is not welcome back on school property. If the visitor returns to school property, the superintendent, building principal or designee may file a trespassing charge on the district's behalf. A visitor denied access to school property may request an informal hearing before the Board on the matter.

However, no person will be denied access to the campus for the following reasons:

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2001, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: KK-C.1B (8/01)

The Board recognizes that situations of concern to parents/guardians or the public may arise in the operation of the district. Such concerns are best resolved by addressing them at the level where the concern originated through communication with the appropriate staff members. The administration has developed procedures for addressing those issues, copies of which are available at each building. Any concern regarding federal programs administered by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) may also be appealed to DESE or the United States Department of Education as permitted or required by law.

If a complaint has been made and appealed in accordance with administrative procedures, the parent/guardian or member of the public may appeal the issue to the Board by submitting a written request to the superintendent or the secretary of the Board. The Board will address the complaint in an appropriate and timely manner.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2003, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: KL-C.1F (8/03)

The Dora R-III School District Board of Education has the ultimate responsibility for establishing the curriculum and for purchasing instructional, media and library materials to be used by the district. However, the Board recognizes that its authority to remove or censor materials because of ideological or religious content may be limited pursuant to state and federal law.

The Board encourages community input and comments regarding the district’s instructional, media and library materials and directs the district staff to answer all questions regarding the selection of the materials. The superintendent or designee will create procedures to efficiently address community member questions or concerns and to provide for an adequate review of the materials, if necessary.

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Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2002, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: KLB-C.1D (10/02)

It shall be the policy of the school district to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the interest of the larger welfare of all citizens of the community and for the welfare of the student population.

Relationships between the schools and officials of law enforcement agencies in investigative matters concerning pupils will take into consideration the respective roles of the schools and law enforcement agencies in assisting and protecting the interests of the community, and ensuring the rights of all concerned.

Districts may work with local law enforcement agencies to develop drug and alcohol use prevention and drug and alcohol trafficking suppression programs. School staff will fully cooperate in the prosecution of any crime or threat affecting the school district, to the extent allowed by law.

School districts may report or disclose education records to law enforcement and juvenile justice authorities if the disclosure concerns law enforcement's or juvenile justice authorities' ability to effectively serve, prior to adjudication, the student whose records are released. The officials and authorities to whom such information is disclosed must comply with applicable restrictions set forth in 20 U.S.C. § 1232g (b)(1)(E).

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

For Office Use Only: KNAJ-C.1E (10/00)

The State of Missouri must establish and maintain free public schools in accordance with the Missouri Constitution and state law. The State has delegated certain responsibilities to local school districts. This school district is governed by a seven-director School Board. Directors are elected or appointed in accordance with law.

The official name of the school district shall be Dora R-III. In accordance with state law, the Board of Education shall keep a common seal with which to attest its official acts relative to district operations.

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Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2003, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: AA-C.1C (8/03)

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Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

Portions © 2000 Missouri School Boards’ Association

For Office Use Only: AC-C.1D (10/00)

* * * * * * *

Approved:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: AC-R.1B (10/00)

The mission of the Dora R-III School District is: [fill in mission statement].

The district has a Board-approved Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) guided by the mission statement and based on the district's fundamental beliefs about teaching and learning. This plan serves as the district's foundation for allocating resources, developing policies and procedures, and selecting and implementing instructional programs designed to raise student achievement.

The CSIP was developed through the combined efforts of Board members, staff, administrators, students, parents/guardians and community members and is ongoing. Goals, outcomes or objectives are provided in sufficient detail to direct the improvement efforts of the district for at least a five-year period. The CSIP is evaluated and updated as necessary.

A copy of the district's CSIP is available in the superintendent's office.

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Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

Portions © 2003 Missouri School Boards’ Association

For Office Use Only: AD-C.1B (8/03)

The Board accepts ultimate responsibility for all facets of the operations of the school district. Because it is accountable to the patrons of the district, the Board will maintain a program of accountability that will help to accomplish the following objectives:

The superintendent shall implement procedures to ensure continued progress and improvement of the district operations through a program of meaningful evaluations and assessments, including compliance with annual districtwide reporting requirements set forth by law.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

To promote the health and safety of all students and staff and to promote the cleanliness of school grounds, the district prohibits all employees, students and patrons from smoking or using tobacco or tobacco products in all school facilities, buildings, school transportation, other district transportation and on all school grounds at all times, including athletic events and meetings. This prohibition extends to all facilities the district owns, contracts for or leases to provide educational services, routine health care, daycare or early childhood development services to children. This prohibition does not apply to any private residence or any portion of a facility that is used for inpatient hospital treatment of individuals dependent on, or addicted to, drugs or alcohol in which the district provides services.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2002, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: AH-C.1D (7/02)

Pursuant to law, the district prohibits smoking or use of tobacco or tobacco products in all indoor school facilities used to provide routine or regular services to children or on school transportation. This prohibition extends to all facilities the district owns, contracts for or leases to provide educational services, routine health care, daycare or early childhood development services to children. Smoking in designated smoking areas in facilities not utilized to provide services to children is allowed.

This prohibition does not apply to any private residence or any portion of a facility that is used for inpatient hospital treatment of individuals dependent on, or addicted to, drugs or alcohol in which the district provides services. The superintendent or designee is authorized to make necessary rules or procedures to clarify and enact this policy.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2002, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: AH-C.2D (7/02)

In accordance with law and to promote the health and safety of all students and staff, the district prohibits all employees, students and patrons from smoking or using tobacco or tobacco products in all school facilities, buildings and school transportation. This prohibition extends to all facilities the district owns, contracts for or leases to provide educational services, routine health care, daycare or early childhood development services to children, as well as facilities in which services are not provided to children.

This prohibition does not apply to any private residence or any portion of a facility that is used for inpatient hospital treatment of individuals dependent on, or addicted to, drugs or alcohol in which the district provides services. Further, smoking is permitted outside district facilities, buildings, and school transportation in designated areas. The superintendent or designee is authorized to make necessary rules or procedures to clarify and enact this policy.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2002, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: AH-C.3C (7/02)

BJ School Board Memberships

The Board of Education is a representative body elected by the registered voters of the Dora R-III School District of Ozark County. It is the purpose and the role of the Board of Education to exercise general supervision over the schools of the district, and to ensure that the schools are maintained as provided by the state statutes, the rules and procedures of the Missouri State Board of Education and/or the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the policies, rules and procedures of the school district. In addition, the Board is accountable to the electorate, and shall be responsive to the educational needs and the imposed financial constraints of the district. In conducting its various functions as the legislative and policy-making authority for the district, the Board recognizes the following general responsibilities as paramount:

The Board of Education shall control all aspects of the operations of the district within the limits of the law. However, the Board will make its members, the district professional and support staff, and the district patrons aware that the Board has authority to take official action only when it is acting as a whole. The Board shall be the final authority. No section of the policies, rules and procedures may be construed to limit the statutory powers of the Board to exercise its own prudent judgment.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

The qualified voters of the Dora R-III School District shall annually elect two (2) directors for terms of three (3) years each on the municipal election day in April. An additional director shall be elected triennially. Unexpired vacant terms will be filled in accordance with law.

Before the sixteenth Tuesday preceding the election, the Board shall publish in at least one (1) newspaper of general circulation in the district the opening filing date, the offices to be filled, the place for filing and the closing date for filing.

Qualified applicants for the Board may file a declaration of candidacy during business hours in the superintendent's office commencing at 8:00 a.m. on the sixteenth Tuesday prior to the election and ending at 5:00 p.m. on the eleventh Tuesday prior to the election. The candidate shall declare his or her intent to become a candidate in person and in writing to the secretary of the Board of Education or designee. The district shall clearly designate where candidates shall form a line to effectuate such filings and determine the order of such filings. The names of qualified candidates shall be placed on the ballot in order of filing.

The notice of election and certification of candidates must be submitted to the election authority by the tenth Tuesday prior to the election in the manner provided by law. After the tenth Tuesday prior to the election, the candidate list may only be modified pursuant to court order, in accordance with law.

Prior to the district's certification of candidates to the election authority, a candidate may withdraw from the election by presenting to the district a notarized written statement of his or her intention to withdraw. After the deadline for certification of candidates to the election authority, a candidate may only withdraw pursuant to court order, in accordance with law.

The district will provide each candidate a copy of the Notice of Candidate's Obligation to File Financial Interest Statement and a plain language summary of the applicable laws provided by the Missouri Ethics Commission as required by law. Candidates must comply with laws concerning eligibility, campaign financing and campaign disclosures.

If candidates have filed for a position, a person interested in becoming a write-in candidate must file a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate with the proper election authority prior to 5:00 p.m. on the second Friday immediately preceding the election day in order for the votes to be counted. If no candidates have filed for the position, filing a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate is not necessary.

No election will be held if, after the last date of candidate filing, the number of candidates who have filed is equal to the number of positions to be filled by the election. However, if the number of candidates filing exceeds the number of positions, the election will be held even if a sufficient number of candidates withdraw so that the remaining candidates are equal to the number of positions to be filled.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2003, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BBB-C.1M (10/03)

The qualified voters of the Dora R-III School District shall annually elect two (2) directors for terms of three (3) years each on the municipal election day in April. An additional director shall be elected triennially. Unexpired vacant terms will be filled in accordance with law.

Before the sixteenth Tuesday preceding the election, the Board shall publish in at least one (1) newspaper of general circulation in the district the opening filing date, the offices to be filled, the place for filing, the closing date for filing and a statement that candidates filing on the first day of filing will be listed on the ballot in random order.

Qualified applicants for the Board may file a declaration of candidacy during business hours in the superintendent's office commencing at 8:00 a.m. on the sixteenth Tuesday prior to the election and ending at 5:00 p.m. on the eleventh Tuesday prior to the election. The candidate shall declare his or her intent to become a candidate in person and in writing to the secretary of the Board of Education or designee.

The names of qualified candidates shall be placed on the ballot in order of filing, except that for candidates who file a declaration of candidacy prior to 5:00 p.m. on the first day of filing, the district shall determine by random drawing the order in which such candidates' names shall appear on the ballot. Each candidate filing on the first day shall draw a number at random at the time of filing. The district shall record the number drawn with the candidate's declaration of candidacy. The names of candidates filing on the first day of filing shall be listed in ascending order of the numbers so drawn and ahead of the names of candidates filing on a later date.

The notice of election and certification of candidates must be submitted to the election authority by the tenth Tuesday prior to the election in the manner provided by law. After the tenth Tuesday prior to the election, the candidate list may only be modified pursuant to court order, in accordance with law.

Prior to the district's certification of candidates to the election authority, a candidate may withdraw from the election by presenting to the district a notarized written statement of his or her intention to withdraw. After the deadline for certification of candidates to the election authority, a candidate may only withdraw pursuant to court order, in accordance with law.

The district will provide each candidate a copy of the Notice of Candidate's Obligation to File Financial Interest Statement and a plain language summary of the applicable laws provided by the Missouri Ethics Commission as required by law. Candidates must comply with laws concerning eligibility, campaign financing and campaign disclosures.

If candidates have filed for a position, a person interested in becoming a write-in candidate must file a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate with the proper election authority prior to 5:00 p.m. on the second Friday immediately preceding the election day in order for the votes to be counted. If no candidates have filed for the position, filing a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate is not necessary.

No election will be held if, after the last date of candidate filing, the number of candidates who have filed is equal to the number of positions to be filled by the election. However, if the number of candidates filing exceeds the number of positions, the election will be held even if a sufficient number of candidates withdraw so that the remaining candidates are equal to the number of positions to be filled.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2003, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BBB-C.2C (10/03)

The qualified voters of the Dora R-III School District shall annually elect two (2) directors for terms of three (3) years each on the municipal election day in April. An additional director shall be elected triennially. Unexpired vacant terms will be filled in accordance with law.

Before the fifteenth Tuesday preceding the election, the Board shall publish in at least one (1) newspaper of general circulation in the district the opening filing date, the offices to be filled, the place for filing and the closing date for filing.

Qualified applicants for the Board may file a declaration of candidacy during business hours in the superintendent's office commencing at 8:00 a.m. on the fifteenth Tuesday prior to the election and ending at 5:00 p.m. on the eleventh Tuesday prior to the election. The candidate shall declare his or her intent to become a candidate in person and in writing to the secretary of the Board of Education or designee. The district shall clearly designate where candidates shall form a line to effectuate such filings and determine the order of such filings. The names of qualified candidates shall be placed on the ballot in order of filing.

The notice of election and certification of candidates must be submitted to the election authority by the tenth Tuesday prior to the election in the manner provided by law. After the tenth Tuesday prior to the election, the candidate list may only be modified pursuant to court order, in accordance with law.

Prior to the district's certification of candidates to the election authority, a candidate may withdraw from the election by presenting to the district a notarized written statement of his or her intention to withdraw. After the deadline for certification of candidates to the election authority, a candidate may only withdraw pursuant to court order, in accordance with law.

The district will provide each candidate a copy of the Notice of Candidate's Obligation to File Financial Interest Statement and a plain language summary of the applicable laws provided by the Missouri Ethics Commission as required by law. Candidates must comply with laws concerning eligibility, campaign financing and campaign disclosures.

If candidates have filed for a position, a person interested in becoming a write-in candidate must file a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate with the proper election authority prior to 5:00 p.m. on the second Friday immediately preceding the election day in order for the votes to be counted. If no candidates have filed for the position, filing a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate is not necessary.

No election will be held if, after the last date of candidate filing, the number of candidates who have filed is equal to the number of positions to be filled by the election. However, if the number of candidates filing exceeds the number of positions, the election will be held even if a sufficient number of candidates withdraw so that the remaining candidates are equal to the number of positions to be filled.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2003, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BBB-C.3A (10/03)

The qualified voters of the Dora R-III School District shall annually elect two (2) directors for terms of three (3) years each on the municipal election day in April. An additional director shall be elected triennially. Unexpired vacant terms will be filled in accordance with law.

Before the fifteenth Tuesday preceding the election, the Board shall publish in at least one (1) newspaper of general circulation in the district the opening filing date, the offices to be filled, the place for filing, the closing date for filing and a statement that candidates filing on the first day of filing will be listed on the ballot in random order.

Qualified applicants for the Board may file a declaration of candidacy during business hours in the superintendent's office commencing at 8:00 a.m. on the fifteenth Tuesday prior to the election and ending at 5:00 p.m. on the eleventh Tuesday prior to the election. The candidate shall declare his or her intent to become a candidate in person and in writing to the secretary of the Board of Education or designee.

The names of qualified candidates shall be placed on the ballot in order of filing, except that for candidates who file a declaration of candidacy prior to 5:00 p.m. on the first day of filing, the district shall determine by random drawing the order in which such candidates' names shall appear on the ballot. Each candidate filing on the first day shall draw a number at random at the time of filing. The district shall record the number drawn with the candidate's declaration of candidacy. The names of candidates filing on the first day of filing shall be listed in ascending order of the numbers so drawn and ahead of the names of candidates filing on a later date.

The notice of election and certification of candidates must be submitted to the election authority by the tenth Tuesday prior to the election in the manner provided by law. After the tenth Tuesday prior to the election, the candidate list may only be modified pursuant to court order, in accordance with law.

Prior to the district's certification of candidates to the election authority, a candidate may withdraw from the election by presenting to the district a notarized written statement of his or her intention to withdraw. After the deadline for certification of candidates to the election authority, a candidate may only withdraw pursuant to court order, in accordance with law.

The district will provide each candidate a copy of the Notice of Candidate's Obligation to File Financial Interest Statement and a plain language summary of the applicable laws provided by the Missouri Ethics Commission as required by law. Candidates must comply with laws concerning eligibility, campaign financing and campaign disclosures.

If candidates have filed for a position, a person interested in becoming a write-in candidate must file a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate with the proper election authority prior to 5:00 p.m. on the second Friday immediately preceding the election day in order for the votes to be counted. If no candidates have filed for the position, filing a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate is not necessary.

No election will be held if, after the last date of candidate filing, the number of candidates who have filed is equal to the number of positions to be filled by the election. However, if the number of candidates filing exceeds the number of positions, the election will be held even if a sufficient number of candidates withdraw so that the remaining candidates are equal to the number of positions to be filled.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2003, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BBB-C.4A (10/03)

Members of the Board of Education shall be citizens of the United States and resident taxpayers of the Dora R-III School District. They shall also have resided in the state for one (1) year preceding their election or appointment. Members shall be at least 24 years of age.

All Board members should have a knowledge of and an interest in the welfare and educational opportunities of students.

Board members initially elected or appointed after August 28, 1993, in addition to the other qualifications listed in this policy, are required by law to successfully complete orientation and training requirements within one (1) year of the date of the election or appointment. The orientation and training shall consist of at least 16 hours with the cost of such training to be paid by the district. All programs providing the orientation and training required under the provisions of this section shall be offered by a statewide association organized for the benefit of members of Boards of Education or be approved by the State Board of Education.

A Board member is a "public servant" under the Missouri Criminal Code provisions regarding bribery, acceding to corruption, official misconduct and misuse of official information.

A "taxpayer" is an individual who has paid taxes to the state or any subdivision thereof within the immediately preceding 12-month period, or the spouse of such individual.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

The Board believes that any citizen who files for and seeks election to the Board of Education should do so with full knowledge of and appreciation for the investment of time, effort and dedication expected of all Board members, and that the citizen's intent to serve reflects his or her intention to serve a full term of office.

However, if a member decides to resign prior to the end of the term of office for reasons of health, relocation outside of the district, or any other compelling reason, the Board requests the earliest possible notification of intent to resign so that it may plan appropriately to fill the vacant seat.

A Board member who resigns shall file a letter of resignation with the Board secretary, who shall forward it to the Board for consideration. A vacancy shall be declared to exist when the Board of Education votes to accept a member's letter of resignation.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Any member of the Board of Education failing to attend three consecutive regular meetings of the Board, unless excused by the Board for reasons satisfactory to the Board, shall be deemed to have vacated the position on the Board. The secretary of the Board shall certify to the Board that a vacancy exists. The vacancy shall then be filled in the same manner as other vacancies occurring on the Board.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BBD-C.1A

Except as provided by the Missouri Constitution and state statutes, and subject to the right of resignation, all members of the Board shall hold office for the term thereof, and until their successors are duly elected or appointed and qualified.

If a vacancy occurs on the Board of Education, the remaining members shall appoint a person to serve until the next school board election, when a director shall be elected for the unexpired term. If there are more than two (2) vacancies at any one time, the county commission, upon receiving written notice of the vacancies from the Board secretary, shall fill the vacancies by appointment. The person(s) appointed shall hold office until the next school board election, when a director(s) shall be elected for the unexpired term(s).

When it becomes necessary for the Board of Education to appoint one (1) or more members to the Board of Education, the following procedures will be used:

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

The Board of Education desires that its members not only adhere to all laws regarding conflict of interest, but also remain alert to situations which have the appearance of a conflict of interest.

It is not the intent of this policy to prevent the district from contracting with corporations or businesses because a Board member is an employee of the firm. The policy is designed to prevent placing a Board member in a position where his or her interest in public schools and in his or her place of employment (or other indirect interest) might conflict, and to avoid appearances of conflict of interest, even though such conflict may not exist.

Individual Board members shall not sell, lease or provide property of any kind to the district, except real estate. In the case of real estate, Board members shall not sell or lease property to the district unless the total compensation payable to such Board member is not in excess of $500 per transaction or $1500 per year, or the award is made after public notice, and the offer is the lowest received on property that satisfies the requirements of the district.

Individual Board members shall not provide services to the district in their capacity as individuals; however, this shall not prevent businesses in which Board members have an interest from providing such services in compliance with this policy.

Corporations in which Board members have no more than a 10 percent ownership interest may make sales of property and services to the district without restriction.

Businesses in which a Board member is sole proprietor or a partner shall not make sales of property to the district, except in the case of sale or lease of real estate. If a Board member is a sole proprietor, a partner with more than a 10 percent ownership interest, or the owner of more than 10 percent of the outstanding shares of any class of stock, the business may make sales of services and real estate to the district after public notice, competitive bidding, and where the offer or bid is the lowest received. Competitive bidding shall not be required in the case of real estate.

Businesses in which Board members have less than a 10 percent ownership interest may make sales of services and sales or leases of real property to the district without restriction.

A Board member shall not favorably act on any matter that is so specifically designed so as to provide a special monetary benefit*** to such official or his or her spouse or dependent children.

Furthermore, Board members may not participate directly or indirectly to influence a decision when the result may be the acceptance by the district of a service or the sale, rental or lease of property to the district, if a benefit of more than $500 per year results to the Board member, the Board member's spouse, a dependent child in the Board member's custody, a sole proprietorship owned by the Board member or his or her spouse, a partnership in which the Board member or spouse is a partner, a corporation in which the Board member is an officer or director or in which the member, spouse, or dependent child in the member's custody together or separately own more than 10 percent of the outstanding shares of any class of stock, or any trust in which the Board member is the settlor or trustee, or in which the member, spouse or dependent child together or separately are beneficiaries or holders of more than a 10 percent interest in the trust, unless the transaction is made after public notice and competitive bidding, where the offer is the lowest received, provided that competitive bidding shall not be required for real estate.

A Board member shall not use confidential information obtained in the course of his or her official capacity in any manner with the intent to result in financial gain for himself or herself, any other person or any business.

The Board shall not employ one of its members, nor shall any Board member vote to employ any person who is related within the fourth degree to such Board member, either by consanguinity or affinity. In the event that an individual is recommended for employment by the administrative staff and the individual is related within the fourth degree to a Board member, the Board member shall declare his or her interest, and shall refrain from debating or voting upon the question of employment.

Campaign contributions will not be converted to personal use except to defray necessary expenses of the office; to defray entertaining expenses associated with the candidacy; to return contributions; or to make an unconditional gift to a political organization or charity.

The Dora R-III School District Board of Education hereby adopts a policy and resolution to make public the disclosure of potential Board member and employee conflicts of interest to include the following information:

The chief administrative officer (superintendent) and chief purchasing officer (to be designated by Board if different than superintendent) will also disclose in writing the following information for themselves, their spouses and dependent children:

This portion of the policy dealing with the financial interest statement will be adopted in an open meeting every other year by September 15. A certified copy of this policy/resolution shall be sent to the Missouri Ethics Commission within 10 days of the adoption. Disclosure reports shall be filed by May 1 for the preceding calendar year with the commission and the Dora R-III School District Board of Education, and the reports will be made available for public inspection and copying during normal business hours.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Legal Refs: §§ 105.450 - .458, 105.462, 105.466, 105.468, 105.472, 105.476 -.492,

162.391, 168.126, 171.181, RSMo.

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BBFA-C.1J (7/98)

The Board of Education desires that its members not only adhere to all laws regarding conflict of interest, but are also alert to situations which have the appearance of a conflict of interest.

It is not the intent of this policy to prevent the district from contracting with corporations or businesses because a Board member is an employee of the firm. The policy is designed to prevent placing a Board member in a position where his or her interest in public schools and in his or her place of employment (or other indirect interest) might conflict, and to avoid appearances of conflict of interest, even though such conflict may not exist.

Individual Board members shall not sell, rent or lease goods, supplies, commodities, real estate or property of any kind to the district unless the total compensation payable to such Board member is not in excess of $500 per transaction or $1500 per year, or the award is made after public notice, competitive bidding, and the bid or offer is the lowest received. Competitive bidding shall not be required in the case of real estate.

Individual Board members shall not provide services to the district in their capacity as individuals; however, this shall not prevent businesses in which Board members have an interest from providing such services in compliance with this policy.

Businesses in which Board members have no more than a 10 percent ownership interest may make sales of services and property to the district without restriction.

Businesses in which a Board member is sole proprietor, a partner with more than a 10 percent ownership interest, or the owner of more than 10 percent of the outstanding shares of any class of stock may make sales of goods and other property and provide services to the district after public notice and competitive bidding, provided that the bid or offer is the lowest received. Competitive bidding shall not be required in the case of real estate.

A Board member shall not favorably act on any matter that is so specifically designed so as to provide a special monetary benefit*** to such official or his or her spouse or dependent children.

Furthermore, Board members may not participate directly or indirectly to influence a decision when the result may be the acceptance by the district of a service, or the sale, rental or lease of property to the district, if a benefit of more than $500 per year results to the Board member, the Board member's spouse, a dependent child in the Board member's custody, a sole proprietorship owned by the Board member or his or her spouse, a partnership in which the Board member or spouse is a partner, a corporation in which the Board member is an officer or director or in which the member, spouse, or dependent child in the member's custody together or separately own more than 10 percent of the outstanding shares of any class of stock, or any trust in which the Board member is the settlor or trustee, or in which the member, spouse or dependent child together or separately are beneficiaries or holders of more than a 10 percent interest in the trust, unless the transaction is made after public notice and competitive bidding, where the offer is the lowest received, provided that competitive bidding shall not be required for real estate.

A Board member shall not use confidential information obtained in the course of his or her official capacity in any manner with the intent to result in financial gain for him or herself, any other person or any business.

The Board shall not employ one of its members, nor shall any Board member vote to employ any person who is related within the fourth degree to such Board member, either by consanguinity or affinity. In the event that an individual is recommended for employment by the administrative staff and the individual is related within the fourth degree to a Board member, the Board member shall declare his or her interest, and shall refrain from debating or voting upon the question of employment.

Campaign contributions will not be converted to personal use except to defray necessary expenses of the office; to defray entertaining expenses associated with the candidacy; to return contributions; or to make an unconditional gift to a political organization or charity.

The Dora R-III School District Board of Education hereby adopts a policy and resolution to make public the disclosure of potential Board member and employee conflicts of interest to include the following information:

The chief administrative officer (superintendent) and chief purchasing officer (to be designated by Board if different than superintendent) will also disclose in writing the following information for themselves, their spouses and dependent children:

This portion of the policy dealing with the financial interest statement will be adopted in an open meeting every other year by September 15. A certified copy of this policy/resolution shall be sent to the Missouri Ethics Commission within 10 days of the adoption. Disclosure reports shall be filed by May 1 for the preceding calendar year with the commission and the Dora R-III School District Board of Education, and the reports will be made available for public inspection and copying during normal business hours.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Readopted:

Legal Refs: §§ 105.450 - .458, 105.462, 105.466, 105.468, 105.472, 105.476 -.492,

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BBFA-C.2J (7/98)

According to state law, the annual organizational meeting of the Board of Education shall be held within 14 days after the annual Board election. The newly elected members shall qualify by taking the oath of office as prescribed in Article VII, Section 11 of the Constitution of Missouri. The Board secretary shall administer the oath to the new members.

The Board shall organize by the election of a president and vice president, and the Board shall, on or before July 15 of each year, elect a secretary and a treasurer who shall assume their respective duties on July 15. The secretary and treasurer may or may not be members of the Board. The superintendent, who will serve as temporary chairperson, shall conduct the election of the president and vice president.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2003, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BCA-C.1E (12/03)

The Board of Education shall elect a president and vice president at its organizational meeting. Vacancies in Board officer positions shall be filled by holding another Board election to fill the vacant positions.

The president of the Board, in addition to duties prescribed by law, will exercise such powers as properly pertain to the office according to Robert's Rules of Order, Revised. He or she shall have the right, as shall other members of the Board, to offer resolutions, to discuss questions and to vote thereon. The president will fulfill the responsibilities of the office as follows:

It shall be the duty of the vice president of the Board to perform all the duties assigned to the president in the event of the latter's disability or absence. The vice president shall also assume other duties, which the Board of Education may assign.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

On or before July 15 of each year, the Board shall elect a school district secretary, treasurer and other Board officials deemed necessary and advisable. The Board will set the terms of service and compensation. If either the secretary or treasurer is a member of the Board, compensation for services may not be received. If not a member of the Board, reasonable compensation for services may be received. Vacancies in Board officer positions shall be filled by Board election of replacements.

The secretary of the Board of Education shall perform or cause to be performed the following duties:

The treasurer of the Board of Education shall perform or cause to be performed the following duties:

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Legal Refs: §§ 105.273 - .276, 162.301, .303, .371, .391, .401, .441, .821,

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2001, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BCC-.1E (8/01)

At its annual organizational meeting, the Board of Education shall elect a Missouri School Boards' Association (MSBA) delegate and alternate.

The MSBA delegate shall have the following duties:

The MSBA alternate will assume the role of delegate if the delegate is unable to serve.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2001, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BCCA-C.1C (8/01)

The Board shall act as a committee-of-the-whole on all matters pertaining to the business and educational policies of the district. The Board may appoint standing committees; however, no individual member or group comprised of less than the full membership of the Board shall exercise the powers of the full Board, except in the case of committees appointed by the president to hear appeals in student disciplinary matters.

With the approval or at the direction of the Board, the president of the Board may appoint temporary ad hoc and/or special lay committees to assist the Board.

Final authority in the decision-making process will reside with the Board.

The custodian of records shall maintain a list of policy advisory committees. Any committee appointed by or at the direction of the Board and which is authorized to report to the Board or any advisory committee appointed by or at the direction of the Board for the specific purpose of recommending directly to the Board or the superintendent any policies, policy revisions or expenditure of public funds, will follow the Missouri Open Meetings and Records Act.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BCE-C.1G (10/00)

The Board will function and act as a body of the whole. However, the Board may be helped or aided by special committees.

The president may recommend, with the approval of the majority of the Board, committee(s) to perform various functions.

The custodian of records of the district will keep a list of committees appointed by or at the direction of the Board. Committees will conduct their business in compliance with the Missouri Sunshine Law.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2001, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BCE-R.1B (8/01)

The Board recognizes that the increasing complexity of school district operations frequently requires procurement of professional legal services. Consequently, the Board may select an attorney and/or law firm for purposes of systematically providing such services. The Board shall prescribe the duties, compensation and term of service for the attorney and/or law firm. It shall be the duty of the counsel to advise the Board and to make recommendations concerning specific legal problems submitted. Districts including one (1) or more cities or towns having a total population of at least 30,000 may retain an attorney on an annual basis.

A decision to seek legal counsel or advice on behalf of the school district shall normally be made by the superintendent or by persons specifically authorized by the superintendent. It may also take place as a consequence of formal Board direction.

Many types of legal assistance to the district may be considered routine and may not require specific Board approval or prior notice. However, when the administration concludes that unusual types or amounts of professional legal service may be required, the Board directs the administration to so advise it, and to expeditiously seek either initial or continuing authorization for such service.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

A quorum must be present, whether physically or electronically, in order to conduct an official meeting. A quorum shall consist of four (4) members of the Board of Education.

Meetings may be held in person or by means of communication equipment including, but not limited to, conference calls, video conferences, Internet chats or Internet message boards.

Meetings of the Board of Education shall be open to the public and the press unless closed as authorized by law.

All Board meetings shall be held at a place of sufficient size to accommodate the anticipated members of the public and at a time that is reasonably convenient. In addition, reasonable efforts shall be made to make the meeting accessible to individuals with disabilities. If any of these statutory requirements are not met, the nature of the cause for noncompliance for the meeting should also be stated in the Board minutes.

Recording open meetings by audiotape, videotape or other electronic means is allowed by law. However, the Board may establish guidelines regarding the manner in which such recordings are conducted to minimize disruption to the meeting. Recording a closed meeting is prohibited unless permission has been granted by the Board by resolution. By passing this policy the Board grants permission to the Board secretary to record closed meetings as necessary to fulfill his or her duties.

Public notice of all meetings shall be given in accordance with Board policy and law.

The Board of Education shall hold regular meetings throughout the year to transact such business as deemed necessary for the smooth operation of the school district.

The Board will hold its regular meeting on the ________ of each month at _______ (time) at _________ (location) unless otherwise specified in the publicized notice of the meeting.

Special Board meetings may be held from time to time as circumstances may demand. Special meetings of the Board may be held at a time fixed by the Board or on the call of the president. A special meeting may also be called by at least four (4) members of the Board. Each member shall be notified of the time, place and purpose of the meeting a reasonable amount of time in advance of the meeting.

The Board may allow members to participate in meetings by telephone or other electronic means. Board members may not simply vote electronically, but must be connected with the meeting throughout the discussion of business. If a Board member electronically joins the meeting after an item of business has been opened, the remotely located member shall not participate until the next item of business is opened.

If the Board allows a member to participate electronically, the member will be considered present and will have his or her actual physical presence excused. The member shall be counted present for purposes of convening a quorum. The Board secretary will document it in the minutes when members participate in the meeting electronically.

Board members participating electronically cannot cast roll call votes unless a district emergency exists and a quorum of the Board is physically present. If such an emergency exists, the nature of the district emergency shall be stated in the minutes. Board members participating electronically may cast votes other than roll call votes.

Any Board member wishing to participate in a meeting electronically will notify the Board president and superintendent as early as possible. The superintendent will arrange for the meeting to take place in a location with the appropriate equipment so that Board members participating in the meeting electronically may interact and the public may observe or hear the comments made. The superintendent will take measures to verify the identity of any remotely located participants.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

Portions © 2004 Missouri School Boards’ Association

For Office Use Only: BDA-C.1C (7/04)

The Board reserves the right, as provided by law, to conduct closed meetings, including any records or votes, to the extent allowed under the Missouri Sunshine Law.

Public notice of closed meetings shall be given in accordance with Board policy and law. A majority of a quorum of the Board shall vote to close a meeting, in accordance with law. The reason for holding the closed meeting, with reference to the specific statutory exemption relied upon for closure and the roll call vote of each member on the question of holding a closed meeting, shall be announced publicly at an open session and entered into the minutes. Only business directly related to the specific exemptions may be discussed or voted upon at a closed meeting.

In the event a motion is made to close a meeting, record or vote and a Board member believes that the motion would violate the Missouri Sunshine Law if passed, the Board member may state his or her objection to the motion before or at the time the vote is taken. The Board secretary will enter the objection in the minutes. Once the objection has been made the Board member shall be allowed to fully participate in the meeting, record or vote even if it is closed over the member’s objection. If the Board member voted against the motion to close the meeting, record or vote, the recorded objection and the vote is an absolute defense to any claim filed against the Board member pursuant to the Missouri Sunshine Law.

The Board shall only close that portion of the meeting facility needed to house the Board in closed session. Members of the public must be allowed to remain in the meeting facility so that they may attend any open meeting that follows the closed meeting.

The Board members, employees and others in attendance are honor bound not to disclose the details or discussions of the closed meetings, records or votes. District employees who fail to keep closed information or closed meetings confidential may be disciplined or terminated. The Board may publicly admonish Board members who fail to keep closed records and meetings confidential in violation of this policy.

The following are some of the reasons a meeting, record or vote may be closed:

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

It is the policy of the Dora R-III School District to inform the public of School Board meetings in accordance with law.

The Board secretary has the responsibility to post notice of Board meetings, subject to direction by the superintendent. Each individual Board member has the responsibility to notify the Board secretary of items to be included on the agenda so that the item may be included in the legal posting.

In addition to the criteria listed below, notice of all Board meetings shall be given at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, exclusive of weekends and holidays when school is closed, unless for good cause such notice is impossible or impractical, in which case as much notice as is reasonably possible shall be given. The nature of the good cause must be stated in the minutes.

The notice shall be posted on a bulletin board or other easily accessible public place clearly designated for that purpose at the principal office of the Board or, if no such office exists, at the building where the meeting will be held.

All interested news media organizations will be notified concurrently with members of the Board, upon request, of all meetings of the Board of Education. To be notified of these meetings, a news media organization should make a request to the secretary of the Board of Education.

Public notice of an open meeting will include the time, date, place and a tentative agenda advising the public of the matters to be considered.

Public notice of a closed meeting will include the time, date and place of the meeting and the specific statutory exemption under which the meeting will be closed.

In addition, a majority of a quorum of the Board shall vote to close a meeting, in accordance with law. The reason for holding the closed meeting, with reference to the specific statutory exemption relied upon for closure and the roll call vote of each member on the question of holding a closed meeting, shall be announced publicly at an open session and entered into the minutes.

If the meeting will be conducted by telephone or other electronic means, the notice of the meeting shall identify the mode by which the meeting will be conducted and the designated location where the public may observe and attend the meeting, if open. If the meeting will be conducted by Internet chat, Internet message board or other computer link, the district shall post a notice of the meeting on its website, in addition to other postings, and shall notify the public how to access that meeting, if open.

A formal subcommittee of the Board may conduct a meeting without advance notice during a lawful meeting of the Board, a recess of that meeting or immediately following that meeting. The subcommittee's meeting must be announced at the Board meeting, and the subject of the meeting must reasonably coincide with the subjects discussed at the Board meeting.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

A tentative agenda for each meeting of the Board shall be prepared by the superintendent, in consultation with the Board president, and shall be included in the public notice of such meetings. The tentative agenda must reasonably inform the public of matters to be considered. Any member of the Board may request items to be placed on the agenda. The tentative agenda, related materials and minutes of the previous meeting shall be mailed to each member at least four (4) days prior to the stated meeting.

The agenda for each meeting of the Board shall be adopted or modified by motion of a majority of those Board members present. Once the agenda is approved, it shall require a vote of a majority of the Board members present to make additional modifications.

Any patron or group of patrons desiring to be included on the agenda for the purpose of addressing the Board shall make a request to the superintendent five (5) days prior to the regular Board meeting. The request shall be submitted in writing, and shall provide sufficient detail to explain fully the issue(s) to be discussed. The Board reserves the right to limit the number of and speaking time of spokespersons appearing before the Board. Unless unusual circumstances dictate otherwise, the Board will not make a decision on an issue(s) presented by an individual or group during that particular meeting. The Board reserves the right to waive formalities in emergency situations, within the limitations of state statutes.

The superintendent shall cause a sufficient number of copies of the tentative agenda to be prepared and distributed to persons in attendance at the Board meeting.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

A tentative agenda for each meeting of the Board shall be prepared by the superintendent, in consultation with the Board president, and shall be included in the public notice of such meetings. The tentative agenda must reasonably inform the public of matters to be considered. Any member of the Board may request items to be placed on the agenda. The tentative agenda, related materials and minutes of the previous meeting shall be mailed to each member at least four (4) days prior to the stated meeting.

The agenda for each meeting of the Board shall be adopted or modified by motion of a majority of those Board members present. Once the agenda is approved, it shall require a vote of a majority of the Board members present to make additional modifications.

Any patron or group of patrons desiring to be included on the agenda for the purpose of addressing the Board shall make a request to the superintendent five (5) days prior to the regular Board meeting. The request shall be submitted in writing, and shall provide sufficient detail to explain fully the issue(s) to be discussed. The Board reserves the right to limit the number of and speaking time of spokespersons appearing before the Board. Unless unusual circumstances dictate otherwise, the Board will not make a decision on an issue(s) presented by an individual or group during that particular meeting. The Board reserves the right to waive formalities in emergency situations, within the limitations of state statutes.

The superintendent shall cause a sufficient number of copies of the tentative agenda to be prepared and distributed to persons in attendance at the Board meeting.

In order to use time within the Board meetings more efficiently, the School Board also utilizes a consent agenda whenever appropriate. Items placed on the consent agenda are routine in nature or are among the many decisions that the Board has already determined are in the domain of the administration.

When the consent agenda is presented to the Board for action, the Board president will provide the opportunity for any member of the Board to request a discussion or removal of any item on the agenda. Any item requested to be removed from the consent agenda by a Board member will be placed on the regular agenda or removed from the agenda entirely, depending upon the request of the member and the Board's agreement. Remaining items on the consent agenda are then voted on and passed or denied by a single motion. The minutes of the Board meeting shall include the outcome of the vote and a list of all the items which appeared on the consent agenda.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

All motions will be recorded in the minutes, including the name of the person seconding any motion and the record of the vote. Minimally, the number of "yea" and "nay" votes on any question shall be recorded in the minutes unless a roll call vote is required by law. When a member abstains from voting, such abstention shall not be counted as a vote either for or against the proposal, but shall be entered in the minutes as an abstention. The president shall have a vote on all questions.

Any member upon request may have a brief explanation of his or her vote recorded on any question. Any member may also change his or her vote if such request is made prior to consideration of the next order of business.

Motions pass with an affirmative vote from the majority of the quorum present at the meeting, unless otherwise prescribed by law. A majority of the Board must vote to enter into a contract, employ a person, approve a bill or issue a warrant.

Voting in open session must be conducted in a manner that allows the public attending the meeting to observe how each person voted and in a manner that allows the Board secretary to accurately discern and record the number of persons voting for or against the motion as well as the persons abstaining from the motion.

The Board may decide to vote by roll call in open session. When an open public vote is not to be taken by roll call, any member may request that the Board be polled on any issue requiring a vote. When voting to adjourn to closed session, the specific reason for closing the meeting must be announced publicly by reference to a specific section of the law, and the vote must be taken by roll call.

In the event a motion is made to close a meeting, record or vote and a Board member believes that the motion, if passed, would violate the Missouri Sunshine Law, the Board member may state his or her objection to the motion before or at the time the vote is taken. The Board secretary will enter the objection in the minutes. Once the objection has been made the Board member shall be allowed to fully participate in the meeting, record or vote even if it is closed over the member’s objection. If the Board member voted against the motion to close the meeting, record or vote, the recorded objection and the vote is an absolute defense to any claim filed against the Board member pursuant to the Missouri Sunshine Law.

All votes taken in closed session shall be taken by roll call, including the vote to adjourn.

The Board may allow members to participate in meetings by telephone or other electronic means. Board members may not simply vote electronically, but must be connected with the meeting throughout the discussion of business. If a Board member electronically joins the meeting after an item of business has been opened, the remotely located member shall not participate until the next item of business is opened.

Board members participating electronically cannot cast roll call votes unless a district emergency exists and a quorum of the Board is physically present at the meeting. If such an emergency exists, the nature of the district emergency shall be stated in the minutes. Board members participating electronically may cast votes other than roll call votes.

* * * * * * *

Adopted:

Revised:

Whereas it is recognized that the Board of Education speaks through its minutes, the Board shall direct the secretary of the Board to take, or cause to be taken, the minutes of each Board meeting. The minutes of all Board meetings shall be accurate, complete and meet all legal requirements. The superintendent shall be responsible for their safe keeping. The minutes of meetings of the Board of Education will include but are not limited to the following:

The minutes will be signed by the president and attested by the secretary of the Board following their approval by the Board.

The closing of executive session votes and records shall be determined by a majority vote of the quorum of the Board in a public session. Minutes and portions thereof shall be kept in a separate minute book used solely for the purpose of executive sessions. Executive session minutes shall be confidential material, and shall not be available to the public except as provided by law.

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Adopted:

Revised:

Since the official minutes of the Board are the only basic legal record, it is important that they be recorded with extreme care and completeness. The Board secretary shall adhere to the following guidelines in recording Board minutes:

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Adopted:

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Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2001, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BDDG-R.1B (8/01)

To provide for full and open communication between the public and the Board of Education, the Board authorizes the following avenues for the exchange of information, ideas and opinions.

Students, employees and any members of the public are encouraged to utilize established policies and procedures for offering suggestions or addressing concerns and complaints prior to bringing the issue before the Board. The Board believes that many issues can be resolved by communication with teachers, administrators and other staff and may refuse to address an issue if the individual presenting it has not first attempted to resolve the matter through established procedures and policies.

Written correspondence may be directed to the Board, through the superintendent, for consideration at a meeting. Copies of all correspondence directed to the Board will be made available to all Board members. Statements of two (2) pages or less are encouraged.

Any member of the public who wishes to have an item placed on the agenda will present the request in writing to the superintendent or designee. The request must be submitted pursuant to Board policy and received five (5) business days prior to the scheduled meeting. The item will then be appropriately placed on the agenda. The Board reserves the right to impose reasonable restrictions on the number of items to be considered, the number of spokespersons and the speaking time of spokespersons appearing before the Board. If the meeting agenda is full, the Board reserves the right to reschedule an item for the next regular meeting. The Board may refuse to address an issue that has not gone through the appropriate grievance procedure. The Board reserves the right to waive formalities in emergency situations, within the limitations of the law.

From time to time, the Board will schedule a public hearing to receive input on matters of concern to the community, such as setting the district's tax rate. The public will be provided notice of such hearings as required by law.

A specifically designated time will be set aside for public comments at regular meetings of the Board of Education. The following rules will be applied to the public comment portion of the meeting:

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Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2003, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BDDH-C.1B (8/03)

To provide for full and open communication between the public and the Board of Education, the Board authorizes the following avenues for the exchange of information, ideas and opinions.

Students, employees and members of the public are encouraged to utilize established policies and procedures for offering suggestions or addressing concerns and complaints prior to bringing the issue before the Board. The Board believes that many issues can be resolved by communication with teachers, administrators and other staff and may refuse to address an issue if the individual presenting it has not first attempted to resolve the matter through established procedures and policies.

Written correspondence may be directed to the Board, through the superintendent, for consideration at a meeting. Copies of all correspondence directed to the Board will be made available to all Board members. Statements of two (2) pages or less are encouraged.

Any member of the public who wishes to have an item placed on the agenda will present the request in writing to the superintendent or designee. The request must be submitted pursuant to Board policy and received five (5) business days prior to the scheduled meeting. The item will be appropriately placed on the agenda. The Board reserves the right to impose reasonable restrictions on the number of items to be considered, the number of spokespersons and the speaking time of spokespersons appearing before the Board. If the meeting agenda is full, the Board reserves the right to reschedule an item to the next regular meeting. The Board may refuse to address an issue that has not gone through the appropriate grievance procedure. The Board reserves the right to waive formalities in emergency situations, within the limitations of the law.

From time to time, the Board will schedule a public hearing to receive input on matters of concern to the community, such as setting the district's tax rate. The public will be provided notice of such hearings as required by law.

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Adopted:

Revised:

© 2003, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BDDH-C.2A (8/03)

The Dora R-III School District believes that local control of public education is best served when the patrons of the district and other members of the public have access to the meetings, records and votes of the Board of Education. In limited situations, important considerations of public policy require meetings of the Board, including any record or vote, to be closed to the public. Meetings, records and votes shall be closed to the public to the extent allowed by law.

The following provisions shall govern the release of information concerning the meetings, records and votes of the Board:

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Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

Portions © 2004 Missouri School Boards’ Association

For Office Use Only: BDDL-C.1C (7/04)

The Board of Education shall determine the policies to serve as a basis for the administration of the school district. The formulation, development, adoption and revision of written policies, rules and procedures shall constitute the basic method by which the Board of Education shall exercise its leadership in the operation of the school district.

The Board may direct the district's administrative staff members to promulgate, implement and maintain administrative procedures which are consistent with the Board's policies. While the Board may wish to periodically review these procedures, the administration has the authority to make adjustments to these procedures without Board approval, unless otherwise instructed by the Board. The policies, rules and procedures of the Board of Education shall be consistent with the philosophy, goals and objectives of the district, and shall be readily available to school district patrons.

The superintendent shall ensure that pertinent policies, rules and procedures shall be made available to the entire school staff annually.

It shall be the duty of the members of the professional and support staff to become familiar with the policies, rules and procedures so that each may clearly recognize his or her duties and relationships within the school policies.

Proposals for new policies or revisions of current policies may be initiated by anyone interested in or connected with the district, and must be presented in writing to the superintendent. The superintendent and administration will review the proposal and recommend appropriate disposition of the proposal. Upon its decision, the Board will inform the interested parties of the status of the proposal and the Board's reasons for acceptance or rejection of the proposal. Except for the alternative procedures described in this policy, the adoption of policies by the Board will follow the sequence outlined for policy adoption. In the event of a discrepancy between written materials in the district, Board policy will take precedence.

Policies may be adopted and/or amended only upon a majority vote of the members of the Board present at a legally constituted meeting in which the proposed policy or amendment has been included on the agenda and described in writing.

To permit time for study of new policies or amendments to policies, and to provide an opportunity for interested parties to react, proposed policies or amendments will be presented as agenda items to the Board.

The formal adoption or revision of policies will be recorded in the minutes of the Board meeting. Only those written statements so adopted or revised and so recorded will be regarded as official policies of the Board. Policies may become effective immediately upon adoption, or at a specific effective date established by the Board and provided in the motion to adopt.

Policies of the Board may only be suspended at an official meeting of the Board by one of the following procedures:

The superintendent shall have the power to implement action within the school district if an emergency situation should develop for which the Board has provided no policy guidelines. However, the superintendent's decision shall be subject to review by the Board at its next regular meeting. It is the superintendent's duty to inform the Board of any such action and of the need for an official policy statement.

The superintendent shall be responsible for the administration of the policies adopted by the Board of Education. In an effort to ensure that policies are updated to comply with the most recent federal and state regulations, statutes and court decisions, the Board will review its policies on a continuing basis. The superintendent is responsible for calling the Board's attention to all policies that are out of date or that appear to need revision. The superintendent may designate a specific staff person who will be responsible for entering policy update material into the manual and presenting any update material received to the superintendent.

The Board directs the superintendent to recall all policy manuals periodically for purposes of administrative updating and Board review. The superintendent and administrative staff shall make every effort to ascertain that each copy of the policy manual or any excerpt therefrom is identical. However, only that copy which is designated "official copy" and which is kept at all times in the office of the superintendent of schools shall be recognized as authoritative.

The following procedure may be used to formally adopt or delete policies or amend any part of an existing policy as recommended by an updating service such as that provided through the Missouri School Boards' Association. Following review of the recommended changes, the Board may vote to accept the recommendations of the policy service. The recommended changes will then be considered immediately adopted and will be regarded as official Board policy.

In addition, the Board may determine that an emergency exists, and in such cases may immediately adopt, repeal or amend a policy. The fact that such policy change is adopted as an emergency measure shall be stated in the minutes.

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Adopted:

Revised:

Each new Board member shall be given an orientation program under the direction of the superintendent. Included shall be an updated copy of the Policies and Procedures of the Dora R-III School District, the budget, the latest annual report, and such other documents as the superintendent deems essential to the operation of the district. The superintendent shall set aside such time as is necessary to answer any questions arising from the study of these documents, and shall cooperate fully in assisting the new member to become an informed and active Board member.

Within one year of their election or appointment, new Board members will complete at least 16 hours of orientation and training in a program presented by the Missouri School Boards' Association or approved by the State Board of Education.

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Adopted:

Revised:

As provided in state statutes, compensation is not provided for members of the Board of Education. However, the Board recognizes the benefits derived by the school district through Board member attendance at regional, state and national conferences and conventions and similar efforts on behalf of the school district. As the school district as a whole is benefitted, the Board will reimburse Board members for normal expenses for motel, food, registration, and transportation costs incurred while attending authorized conferences and meetings.

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Because they are members of an agency of government whose powers and duties can only be exercised by a decision of the majority of the Board when the Board is officially in session, the members of the Board and its employees act as agents of the Board. None of these individuals should be placed in a position of personal liability for the performance of the responsibilities vested in them by the voters of the district.

Therefore, in order to protect the individual members of the Board, its agents, and the educational interests of the district, the Board may purchase, in the absence of governmental immunity or in addition to sovereign or governmental tort immunity, with public school funds, adequate errors and omissions liability insurance and/or other types of insurance necessary to indemnify Board members and agents of the Board for their official actions in the service of the district's schools.

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© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BHE-C.1B (9/88)

The Board, as an agent of the state, must operate within the bounds of state and federal law affecting public education. If the Board is to meet its inherent responsibility to the residents and students of the community, it must 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 act accordingly as follows:

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Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2001, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: BI-C.1B (8/01)

It may be the policy of the Board to maintain membership in the Missouri School Boards' Association. Through this membership in the state association, the School Board maintains indirect membership in the National School Boards' Association. The Board shall seek to participate as fully as possible in the activities of these organizations.

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Adopted:

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CH Policy Implementation/Dissemination

The superintendent of schools shall be the chief executive officer of the Board of Education and the administrative head of all divisions and departments of the Dora R-III School District. The superintendent shall be responsible to the Board for the execution of its policies, rules and procedures. The superintendent shall be the representative of the Board and the channel through which all directives from the Board to its employees or students shall be communicated. The superintendent may also give directives, which shall be valid until disapproved by the Board, for the management of the school district to employees and students on points not covered by the adopted policies, rules and procedures.

The superintendent shall be held accountable to the Board for all aspects of administering to the school district. The execution of all decisions made by the Board concerning the internal operation of the school district shall be delegated to the superintendent. The superintendent shall then be responsible for the delegation of responsibility and authority for the operation of the various functions of the district.

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Adopted:

Revised:

© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

The Board of Education is solely responsible for the recruitment, selection and appointment of the superintendent of schools. The Board will conduct an active search to find the individual believed most capable of putting into action the policies of the Board, while it remains cognizant of the aspirations of the community, and of the professional and support staff.

The Board may seek the advice and counsel of interested individuals or an advisory committee. A consultant may be employed to assist in the selection of a superintendent. However, after a thorough consideration of qualified applicants, final selection will rest with the Board.

A vote of the majority of the whole Board will be required for the appointment of the superintendent.

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Adopted:

Revised:

For Office Use Only: CBB-C.1A

The Board of Education may employ a superintendent of schools for a contract not to exceed three (3) years. The superintendent shall be employed on a 12-month basis.

Employment will be secured through a written contract, which will state the terms of the appointment, compensation, vacation time, benefits and other conditions of employment. The superintendent's contract shall be reviewed annually, and may be extended at the discretion of the Board.

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Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: CBC-C.1A

The Board of Education will annually evaluate the performance of the superintendent according to written standards set by the Board in consultation with the superintendent. This formal evaluation will take place prior to any action to renew or extend the superintendent's contract.

The Board may evaluate the superintendent at any other time throughout the year, in addition to the annual formal evaluation. Additional evaluations may be formal or informal.

The purpose of the evaluation is to improve administrative leadership as follows:

The formal evaluation and any written responses by the superintendent will be maintained in the superintendent's permanent file in accordance with the state retention manual applicable to schools.

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Adopted:

Revised:

The Board of Education affirms the rights and responsibilities of the building principals and directors for the administration of their various programs and buildings within the broad scope of the adopted Board policies, rules and procedures.

Acting with the approval of the superintendent, each principal or director will be the chief administrator of his or her school, and shall be responsible for and have authority over the actions of students, professional and support staff, visitors, and persons hired to perform special tasks. Staff members who work in more than one school will be responsible to the principal or director of the school during their time in that building.

The principal or director is charged with the supervision and direction of the staff and the students assigned to the building, as well as with the care of the school facility and its equipment. The principal or director will ensure that the Board policies, rules, and procedures, as well as the directives of the superintendent and the guidelines for the instructional program are observed. Within the framework of Board policies and the general rules and procedures established by the superintendent, the principal or director may implement and enforce additional procedures as deemed advisable for efficient operation of the school.

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Adopted:

Revised:

The Dora R-III School District, with the approval of the Board, may operate various specially funded programs that must be administered in accordance with particular federal and/or state laws, regulations and other conditions for use of such funds. The Board of Education, through its approval of such programs and acceptance of funds, is ultimately responsible for them, even though many of the procedures governing the programs are established by other governmental agencies/departments.

The superintendent shall be the designated district official responsible for coordinating funded projects, administering programs and ensuring that the various departments operating these programs do so within the guidelines of the particular program. The Board requests that the administration keep accurate and separate records, as required by state and federal programs, to enable the district to verify program compliance and success.

In order to ensure that federal funds are used to provide services that are in addition to the regular services normally provided for children, the Board directs that the following fiscal requirements related to the expenditure of regular state and local funds be met for applicable federal programs:

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Adopted:

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The superintendent of schools is responsible for implementing and interpreting Board policies, rules and procedures. The policies adopted by the Board and the procedures and directives developed to implement policies are designed to achieve an effective and efficient school system. All Board members, employees and students are expected to abide by Board of Education policies, rules and procedures.

Administrators and supervisors are responsible for the implementation and interpretation of existing policies, rules and procedures to staff members under their supervision. Policies officially adopted by the Board and other districtwide procedures the superintendent desires, will be included in the manual entitled The Board of Education Policies and Administrative Procedures of the Dora R-III School District. Staff, student and parent/guardian handbooks may also be used for disseminating policies and procedures to persons directly affected by them.

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Adopted:

Revised:

Dora R-III School District, Dora, Missouri

© 2000, Missouri School Boards' Association, Registered in U.S. Copyright Office

For Office Use Only: CH-C.1