Policy
All District policies are approved by the School Board. The list of policies below represent the official policies of the District and supersede all other versions of policy.
Student and parent school handbooks and other information on this website provide a condensed overview of the official policy.
Questions regarding policies:
Dr. Dennis Peterson
Superintendent of Schools
Dennis.Peterson@minnetonkaschools.org
952-401-5004
District Human Rights Officer
Tim Alexander
Executive Director of Human Resources
Tim.Alexander@minnetonkaschools.org
952-401-5015
Board
- Policy 201 - Legal Status of the School Board
- Policy 201.1 - District Management
- Policy 202 - School Board Officers
- Policy 203 - School Board Election, Organization and Duties
- Policy 203.1 - School Board Procedures: Rules of Order
- Policy 203.2 - Order of the Regular School Board Meeting
- Policy 203.3 - Operation of the School Board: Governing Rules
- Policy 203.5 - School Board Meeting Agenda Preparation
- Policy 203.6 - Consent Agendas
- Policy 204 - School Board Meeting Minutes
- Policy 205 - Open Meetings and Closed Meetings
- Policy 206 - Public Participation in School Board Meetings
- Policy 208 - Development, Adoption and Implementation of Policies
- Policy 210 - Conflict of Interest
- Policy 211 - Conflict of Interest: School Board Members
- Policy 212 - Criminal or Civil Action Against School District, School Board Member, Employee or Student
- Policy 214 - Out of State Travel by School Board Members
- Policy 215 - Finance Advisory Committee
- Policy 216 - Teaching and Learning Advisory Committee
- Policy 217 - Measures of Success
- Policy 218 - Self-Insurance Advisory Committee
Policy 201 - Legal Status of the School Board
Policy 201.1 - District Management
Policy 202 - School Board Officers
Policy 203 - School Board Election, Organization and Duties
By vote of the people on May 16, 1961, the membership of the Board of Education of the Minnetonka independent School District No. 276 of Hennepin and Carver Counties, was enlarged from the minimal requirement of six according to law, to seven; to become effective at the annual school election in May 1962. Members of the Board shall be elected to four year terms to commence on the first Monday of January following the election and serve until a successor qualifies. Four members are elected every fourth year and three members are elected two years thereafter and every four years on that cycle at the school election held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday of November in odd numbered years. They shall file acceptance of election within ten days after being elected.
Policy 203 - School Board Election, Organization and Duties (PDF)
Policy 203.1 - School Board Procedures: Rules of Order
The purpose of this policy is to provide specific rules of order to conduct meetings of the Board.
Policy 203.1 - School Board Procedures: Rules of Order (PDF)
Policy 203.2 - Order of the Regular School Board Meeting
The purpose of this policy is to ensure consistency in the order of business at Regular School Board Meetings.
Policy 203.2 - Order of the Regular School Board Meeting (PDF)
Policy 203.3 - Operation of the School Board: Governing Rules
The purpose of this policy is to provide governing rules for the conduct of meetings of the School Board.
Policy 203.3 - Operation of the School Board: Governing Rules (PDF)
Policy 203.5 - School Board Meeting Agenda Preparation
The purpose of this policy is to provide procedures for the preparation of the school board meeting agenda for Regular and Special Meetings as well as Study Sessions to ensure that the Board can accomplish its business as efficiently and expeditiously as possible.
Policy 203.5 - School Board Meeting Agenda Preparation (PDF)
Policy 203.6 - Consent Agendas
Policy 204 - School Board Meeting Minutes
Policy 205 - Open Meetings and Closed Meetings
A. The Board embraces the philosophy of openness in the conduct of its business, in the belief that openness produces better programs, more efficiency in administration of programs, and an organization more responsive to public interest and less susceptible to private interest. The Board shall conduct its business under a presumption of openness. At the same time, the Board recognizes and respects the privacy rights of individuals as provided by law. The Board also recognizes that there are certain exceptions to the Minnesota Open Meeting Law as recognized in statute where it has been determined that, in limited circumstances, the public interest is best served by closing a meeting of the Board.
B. The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines to assure the rights of the public to be present at school board meetings, while also protecting the individual's rights to privacy under law, and to close meetings when the public interest so requires as recognized by law.
Policy 205 - Open Meetings and Closed Meetings (PDF)
Policy 206 - Public Participation in School Board Meetings
A. The Minnetonka School Board recognizes the value of participation by the public in deliberations and decisions on District matters. At the same time, the Board recognizes the importance of conducting orderly and efficient proceedings, with opportunity for expression of all participants' respective views.
B. The purpose of this policy is to provide procedures to assure open and orderly public discussion as well as to protect the due process and privacy rights of individuals under the law.
Policy 206 - Public Participation in School Board Meetings (PDF)
Policy 208 - Development, Adoption and Implementation of Policies
The purpose of this policy is to emphasize the importance of the policy-making role of the Board and provide the means for it to continue to be an ongoing effort.
Policy 208 - Development, Adoption and Implementation of Policies (PDF)
Policy 210 - Conflict of Interest
Policy 211 - Conflict of Interest: School Board Members
The purpose of this policy is to observe state statutes regarding conflicts of interest and to engage in School District business activities in a fashion designed to avoid any conflict of interest or the appearance of impropriety.
Policy 211 - Conflict of Interest: School Board Members (PDF)
Policy 212 - Criminal or Civil Action Against School District, School Board Member, Employee or Student
Policy 214 - Out of State Travel by School Board Members
The purpose of this policy is to control out-of-state travel by school board members as required by law.
Policy 214 - Out of State Travel by School Board Members (PDF)
Policy 215 - Finance Advisory Committee
Policy 216 - Teaching and Learning Advisory Committee
Policy 217 - Measures of Success
Policy 218 - Self-Insurance Advisory Committee
Administration
- Policy 304 - Superintendent's Performance Review
- Policy 307 - Access and Dissemination of Educational Data
Policy 304 - Superintendent's Performance Review
As members of the Minnetonka School Board, we believe in the power of a collective vision to mobilize people and effect positive change in their lives. We are committed to building upon the excellence of our past and creating a world-class school district. We will insist on aligning every element of our organization toward the goal of supporting all students’ pursuit of their highest levels of academic and personal achievement.
Policy 307 - Access and Dissemination of Educational Data
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to school district employees as to the data the school district collects and maintains and the permissible distribution of such data.
Policy 307 - Access and Dissemination of Educational Data (PDF)
Personnel
- Policy 401 - Equal Employment Opportunities
- Policy 404 - Employment Background Checks
- Policy 406 - Records of Employees: Policies Regarding Collection, Maintenance and Release Thereof
- Policy 409 - Compliance with the Copyright Laws
- Policy 410 - Family and Medical Leave Act
- Policy 412 - Employee Reimbursement Policy
- Policy 414 - Mandated Reporting of Child Neglect or Physical or Sexual Abuse
- Policy 417 - Chemical Use Policy
- Policy 419 - Tobacco-free Environment
- Policy 420 - Students and Employees-Communicable and Infectious Diseases
- Policy 423 - Employee Student Relationships
- Policy 424 - License Status
- Policy 425.1 - Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
- Policy 426 - Shared Positions Authorization and Conditions Policy
- Policy 427 - Harassment and Violence
- Policy 428 - Respectful Workplace
- Policy 429 - Leaves of Absence Without Pay - Authority to Act
- Policy 430 - Reserve Teachers
- Policy 431 - Wage Rates--Part Time or Substitute
- Policy 432 - Confidential Support Staff Handbook
- Policy 433 - Nepotism
- Policy 434 - Workload Limits for Certain Special Education Teachers
- Policy 440 - Handbook for Minnetonka Community Education Personnel
- Policy 444 - Retirees and Long Term Employees
- Policy 450 - Teaching Excellence
- Policy 451 - Teaching Improvement Program
- Policy 452 - Administrative Supervision of Teachers
- Policy 453 - Exchange of Teachers and Administrators
- Policy 456 - Student Teaching
- Policy 460 - Principal Excellence
- Policy 461 - Administrative Performance Review
- Policy 462 - Designation of Authority During Absence
- Policy 464 - Faculty Selection
- Policy 470 - Employee Use of Social Media
Policy 401 - Equal Employment Opportunities
Policy 404 - Employment Background Checks
The purpose of this policy is to maintain a safe and healthful environment in the District in order to promote the physical, social, and psychological well-being of its students. To that end, the District will seek a criminal history background check for applicants who receive an offer of employment or such other background checks as provided by this policy. The District may also elect to do background checks of volunteers, independent contractors and student employees.
Policy 406 - Records of Employees: Policies Regarding Collection, Maintenance and Release Thereof
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to District employees as to the data the District collects and maintains regarding its personnel.
District Data Practices Officer:
Tim Alexander
Assistant Superintendent - Human Resources
952-401-5015
Tim.Alexander@minnetonkaschools.org
Policy 406 - Records of Employees: Policies Regarding Collection, Maintenance and Release Thereof (PDF)
Policy 409 - Compliance with the Copyright Laws
Policy 410 - Family and Medical Leave Act
Policy 412 - Employee Reimbursement Policy
The purpose of this policy is to set forth the conditions under which the Minnetonka Independent School District #276 will reimburse certain employee business expenses. This policy applies to all District employees unless modified by an individual employment contract approved by the School Board. All out-of-state travel or any in-state travel that involves lodging shall be approved in advance by the employee’s supervisor using the Leave Request/Release Time Form.
Policy 414 - Mandated Reporting of Child Neglect or Physical or Sexual Abuse
The purpose of this policy is to make clear the statutory requirements of school personnel to report suspected child neglect or physical or sexual abuse.
Policy 414 - Mandated Reporting of Child Neglect or Physical or Sexual Abuse (PDF)
Policy 417 - Chemical Use Policy
The purpose of this policy is to assist the school district in maintaining a safe and healthy environment for students, staff, and visitors by prohibiting the use, abuse, possession, sale, or transfer of any chemicals. The School Board is concerned about the health of its employees and also recognizes the importance of adult role modeling for students during formative years. Therefore, the Board shall enforce a chemically-free environment.
Policy 419 - Tobacco-free Environment
Policy 420 - Students and Employees-Communicable and Infectious Diseases
Students and staff of the District should be able to attend the schools of the District without becoming infected with a serious communicable or infectious disease including but not limited to, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), Hepatitis B, and Tuberculosis. Measures that effectively respond to health concerns while respecting the rights of all students, employees, and contractors, including those who are infected, need to be adopted by the School Board. The purpose of this policy is to adopt such measures.
Policy 420 - Students and Employees-Communicable and Infectious Diseases (PDF)
Policy 423 - Employee Student Relationships
The Minnetonka School District is committed to an educational environment in which all students are treated with respect and dignity. Every District employee is to provide students with appropriate guidance, understanding and direction, while maintaining a standard of professionalism, and acting within accepted standards of conduct.
Policy 424 - License Status
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that qualified teachers and administrators are employed by the District and that the District fulfill its duty to ascertain the licensure status of its teachers and administrators. A school board that employs a teacher or administrator who does not hold a valid teaching license or permit places itself at risk for a reduction in state aid. This policy does not negate a teacher or administrator’s duty and responsibility to maintain a current and valid license.
Policy 425.1 - Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
Minnetonka School District #276 maintains a self-insured medical plan, a self-insured dental plan, and a medical flexible spending account (herein referred to as “Minnetonka ISD #276”), which are subject to the administrative simplification provisions of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”)
Policy 425.1 - Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) (PDF)
Policy 426 - Shared Positions Authorization and Conditions Policy
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to school district employees as to the policy and procedure for requesting shared positions.
Policy 426 - Shared Positions Authorization and Conditions Policy (PDF)
Policy 427 - Harassment and Violence
The purpose of this policy is to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from harassment and violence on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, gender, age, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation or disability.
District Human Rights Officer:
Tim Alexander
Assistant Superintendent - Human Resources
952-401-5015
Tim.Alexander@minnetonkaschools.org
Policy 428 - Respectful Workplace
Policy 429 - Leaves of Absence Without Pay - Authority to Act
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to school district employees as to the policy and procedure for requesting leaves of absences without pay.
Policy 429 - Leaves of Absence Without Pay - Authority to Act (PDF)
Policy 430 - Reserve Teachers
Selection and placement of competent reserve teachers in the Minnetonka School District is essential to ensuring coverage of classrooms in the absence of regular teachers. The continuity of programs and curriculum implementation is also affected by the quality of the reserve teachers available for teaching assignments. The district Human Resources office will develop a system to provide for reserve teachers, and will work together with building administrators to assure an effective deployment of reserve teachers.
Policy 431 - Wage Rates--Part Time or Substitute
Policy 432 - Confidential Support Staff Handbook
- To develop and maintain a wage structure which will enable the District to attract and keep qualified and desirable personnel, essential for the educational program to function effectively.
- To provide incentive, through a sound program of wage administration, which will encourage the development of the potential ability of each confidential support staff employee.
- To maintain wage relationships among positions which are internally consistent in recognizing the important relative differences in position requirements for education, experience and the accountabilities in the position.
- To review and establish wage categories that will compare with wages paid in other school districts and in the private sector for positions of comparable levels of responsibility.
Policy 433 - Nepotism
The purpose of this policy is to establish consistent guidelines for the employment of immediate family members in the school district.
Policy 433 - Nepotism (PDF)
Policy 434 - Workload Limits for Certain Special Education Teachers
The purpose of this policy is to establish general parameters for determining the workload limits of special education staff who provide services to children with disabilities receiving direct special education services 60 percent or less of the instructional day.
Policy 434 - Workload Limits for Certain Special Education Teachers (PDF)
Policy 440 - Handbook for Minnetonka Community Education Personnel
The purpose of this policy is to provide the terms and conditions of employment for Minnetonka Community Education and/or Aquatics employees who are not covered by a Master Agreement effective from July 1, 2017, until June 30, 2019.
This policy is not an employment contract, express or implied, nor does it guarantee employment for any specific length of time. The Minnetonka Public Schools may modify, amend, or rescind this policy without notice. The Minnetonka Public Schools has sole responsibility for interpretation of any issues as they relate to this policy
Policy 440 - Handbook for Minnetonka Community Education Personnel (PDF)
Policy 444 - Retirees and Long Term Employees
Policy 450 - Teaching Excellence
Policy 451 - Teaching Improvement Program
Policy 452 - Administrative Supervision of Teachers
Policy 453 - Exchange of Teachers and Administrators
The intent of the programs shall be to provide an opportunity for staff members to work in another educational setting in order to gain different insights into instructional patterns, schedules, facilities, students and cultural environments. It is to be expected that the system or agency with which the exchange is made gains in similar fashion from the exchange.
Policy 456 - Student Teaching
Policy 460 - Principal Excellence
Policy 461 - Administrative Performance Review
Policy 462 - Designation of Authority During Absence
Every administrator will be absent at some time during the normal course of employment: vacation periods, conference attendance, personal business, illness or other reason. To forestall questions of authority during an absence and to enable school operations to proceed as normally as possible, each administrator is responsible for establishing a line of authority in the respective school or department and communicating it to both supervisor(s) and supervisee(s).
Policy 464 - Faculty Selection
In accordance with the District’s vision, “Teaching and the interaction between teachers and their students are central to the educational endeavor. In addition to the mastery of subject area, Minnetonka teachers will know that simply covering curriculum does not equal excellence in teaching. Minnetonka teachers will recognize that they must address emotional and developmental issues during the learning experience in order for effective learning to take place. Because the learning environment is so critical to student success, our teachers will use their empathy, enthusiasm, patience, communication skills, and effective classroom management to create a positive, supportive, respectful, and disciplined atmosphere in which academic and personal achievement can flourish.”
Policy 470 - Employee Use of Social Media
This policy addresses employees’ use of publicly available social media networks including: personal Web sites, Web logs (blogs), wikis, social networks, online forums, virtual worlds, and any other social media. The District takes no position on employees’ decision to participate in the use of social media networks for personal use on personal time. However, use of these media for personal use during District time or on District equipment is prohibited. In addition, employees must avoid posting any information or engaging in communications that violate state or federal laws or District policies.
Students
- Policy 501 - School Weapons Policy
- Policy 502 - Student Attendance and Truancy
- Policy 503 - Attendance Policy for Minnetonka High School
- Policy 504 - Student Dress and Grooming Code
- Policy 505 - Distribution of Non-school-sponsored Materials on School Premises by Student and Employees
- Policy 506 - Student Discipline and Code of Conduct
- Policy 509 - Enrollment of Non-Resident Students
- Policy 509.1 - Early Enrollment
- Policy 510 - Co-curricular Activities Program Policy
- Policy 512 - Search of Student Lockers, Desks, Personal Possessions, Student Vehicles, and Student’s Person
- Policy 514 - Bullying Prohibition Policy
- Policy 515 - Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records
- Policy 516 - Student Medication
- Policy 517 - Recognition and Treatment of Anaphylaxis in the School Setting
- Policy 518 - Do Not Resuscitate/Do Not Intubate (DNR/DNI) Orders
- Policy 520 - Student Surveys
- Policy 521 - Student Disability Nondiscrimination
- Policy 524 - Electronic Technologies Acceptable Use Policy
- Policy 525 - Web Site and Intranet Policy
- Policy 526 - Student Use of Cellular Phones, Digital Imaging Devices and Other Personal Electronic Devices
- Policy 527 - Student Use and Parking of Motor Vehicles, Patrols, Inspections and Searches
- Policy 530 - Immunization Requirements
- Policy 531 - The Pledge of Allegiance
- Policy 532 - Peace Officer Policy
- Policy 533 - Wellness
- Policy 534 - Equal Educational Opportunity
- Policy 535 - Students: Assignment to Schools
- Policy 540 - Homebound Policy
- Policy 541 - Tutoring Policy
- Policy 542 - Civility of Students
- Policy 543 - Unsafe Behavior of Students
- Policy 545 - Health Service Program
- Policy 546 - Study Travel Program Policy
- Policy 547 - Student Chemical Use
- Policy 550 - International Student Exchange Program
Policy 501 - School Weapons Policy
Policy 502 - Student Attendance and Truancy
This policy recognizes that school attendance is the responsibility of the student and parent/guardian, supported by the teachers and administration. Therefore, the purpose of this policy is to encourage regular school attendance and punctuality so that learning can take place. It is intended to be positive and not punitive, and all measures taken will be in the students’ best interest. This policy will assist families and school personnel in making attendance decisions.
Policy 503 - Attendance Policy for Minnetonka High School
It is the responsibility of the Minnetonka Public Schools to the community that all school members will work to challenge and support students in the pursuit of their highest levels of academic and personal achievement. Recognizing the strong relationship between regular attendance for each class and high academic achievement, the District will establish a clear attendance system. Such a system will promote this relationship and hold students accountable for regular attendance. It is essential that Minnetonka High School students and their families take responsibility for knowing and following the Attendance Policy.
Policy 503 - Attendance Policy for Minnetonka High School (PDF)
Policy 504 - Student Dress and Grooming Code
The Minnetonka School District recognizes schools as a place of learning where dress of employees and students should be attire-appropriate for a quality workplace. The Minnetonka Public Schools encourage students to take pride in their attire at school. The dress and grooming of students becomes the concern of the school if it causes disruption of the educational program or is offensive or inappropriate to others. Students should dress in a manner that takes into consideration the educational environment, safety, health and welfare of others.
Policy 505 - Distribution of Non-school-sponsored Materials on School Premises by Student and Employees
Policy 506 - Student Discipline and Code of Conduct
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that students are aware of and comply with the school district’s expectations for student conduct. Such compliance will enhance the school district’s ability to maintain discipline and ensure that there is no interference with the educational process. The school district will take appropriate disciplinary action when students fail to adhere to the Code of Student Conduct established by this policy.
Policy 509 - Enrollment of Non-Resident Students
Policy 509.1 - Early Enrollment
Policy 510 - Co-curricular Activities Program Policy
Since its inception, the Minnetonka School District has been proud to provide a truly comprehensive education. Recognizing academic instruction and achievement as the heart of our mission, the Minnetonka School District also insists on and supports those activities that reinforce the academic pursuits of the students we serve. Co-curricular activities are essential for delivering a world-class education. Opportunities not found in the traditional classroom enhance the students' experience today, as well as prepare them for life's challenges ahead. A variety of co-curricular activities, both competitive and non-competitive, play an important role in the academic, social, physical, and emotional development of students by nurturing the following: perseverance, self-discipline, ethical behavior, ability to work with others, leadership qualities, an understanding of the importance of physical health and fitness, goal-setting and follow-through skills, positive self-image, the experience of competition.
Policy 512 - Search of Student Lockers, Desks, Personal Possessions, Student Vehicles, and Student’s Person
Policy 514 - Bullying Prohibition Policy
Policy 515 - Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records
The school district recognizes its responsibility in regard to the collection, maintenance and dissemination of pupil records and the protection of the privacy rights of students as provided in federal law and state statutes.
District Data Practices Officer:
Tim Alexander
Assistant Superintendent - Human Resources
952-401-5015
Tim.Alexander@minnetonkaschools.org
Policy 516 - Student Medication
Policy 517 - Recognition and Treatment of Anaphylaxis in the School Setting
As it is impossible to totally eliminate allergens from the school setting, staff must be prepared to recognize severe allergic reactions, called anaphylaxis, and must have the means to treat it. The District recognizes that some individuals may experience anaphylaxis for the first time in the school setting, and thus may require emergency medication for which they do not have a prescription. It is the policy of Minnetonka Public Schools to provide Epinephrine auto-injectors for each school, to be administered by a trained staff member to any individual who is believed to be having an anaphylactic reaction.
Policy 517 - Recognition and Treatment of Anaphylaxis in the School Setting (PDF)
Policy 518 - Do Not Resuscitate/Do Not Intubate (DNR/DNI) Orders
The District recognizes that it is serving students with complex health needs. The District also recognizes that district staff may be confronted with requests to withhold emergency care of a student in the event of a life threatening situation at school or school activities or be presented with Do Not Resuscitate/Do Not Intubate (DNR-DNI) orders. The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to district staff and parents or guardians in these situations.
Policy 518 - Do Not Resuscitate/Do Not Intubate (DNR/DNI) Orders (PDF)
Policy 520 - Student Surveys
Policy 521 - Student Disability Nondiscrimination
The purpose of this policy is to protect disabled students from discrimination on the basis of disability and to identify and evaluate learners who, within the intent of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), need special services, accommodations, or programs in order that such learners may receive a free appropriate public education.
Policy 524 - Electronic Technologies Acceptable Use Policy
The purpose of this policy is to set forth guidelines for access, to as well as to acceptable and safe use of the District’s electronic technologies. Electronic technologies include but are not limited to network systems and components, computers and peripherals, printers, telephones, network systems and components, and the applications they support and/or access.
Policy 524 - Electronic Technologies Acceptable Use Policy (PDF)
Policy 525 - Web Site and Intranet Policy
Policy 526 - Student Use of Cellular Phones, Digital Imaging Devices and Other Personal Electronic Devices
The purpose of this policy is to set forth expectations for appropriate use of existing and emerging technologies which students may possess, including but not limited to cellular phones, digital picture/video cameras and/or camera phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), iPods, MP3s, pagers and other personal electronic devices capable of transmitting data or images.
Policy 527 - Student Use and Parking of Motor Vehicles, Patrols, Inspections and Searches
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for use and parking of motor vehicles by students on School District properties, to maintain order and discipline in the schools and to protect the health, safety and welfare of students and school personnel.
Policy 527 - Student Use and Parking of Motor Vehicles, Patrols, Inspections and Searches (PDF)
Policy 530 - Immunization Requirements
Policy 531 - The Pledge of Allegiance
Policy 532 - Peace Officer Policy
Policy 533 - Wellness
The purpose of this policy is to assure a school environment that promotes and protects students’ health, well-being and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating, physical activity, and social and emotional health. The Minnetonka School District is committed to enhancing the development of lifelong wellness practices through active partnership with parents and community.
Policy 533 - Wellness (PDF)
Policy 534 - Equal Educational Opportunity
Policy 535 - Students: Assignment to Schools
Policy 540 - Homebound Policy
Policy 541 - Tutoring Policy
Policy 542 - Civility of Students
A positive and stimulating learning environment is critical to student success. The culture of the Minnetonka School District will demonstrate support and caring for all members of our community. The purpose of this policy, in accordance with the law and accepted rules of a civil society, is to maintain a learning environment which is legal, ethical and non-abusive.
Policy 543 - Unsafe Behavior of Students
A positive and stimulating learning environment is critical to student success. The culture of the Minnetonka School District will demonstrate support and caring for all members of our community. The purpose of this policy is to ensure to the greatest extent possible, that all students in the Minnetonka Public Schools shall be provided with safe and secure schools and a safe and orderly environment conducive to learning.
Policy 545 - Health Service Program
The fundamental purpose of the School Health Service Program is to aid parents/guardians in protecting, improving and maintaining the health of their students. While parents/guardians have the primary and ultimate responsibility for their student’s health, the School Health Service Program will assist parents/guardians in fulfilling their responsibility, and to assist students in developing competence to deal with the health issues they will face during their school years and in the future. The District is responsible for developing objectives and procedures to ensure the accomplishment of the School Health Service Program.
Policy 546 - Study Travel Program Policy
Policy 547 - Student Chemical Use
The purpose of this policy is to assist the District in maintaining a safe and healthy environment for students, staff, and visitors by prohibiting the use, abuse, possession, sale, or transfer of any chemicals on District property or at District events. Therefore, the Board supports the enforcement of a chemically-free environment and the periodic assessment of the District’s efforts to support it.
Policy 550 - International Student Exchange Program
The Minnetonka School District vision provides that the District will insist on a curriculum designed to stretch students’ minds and prepare them to thrive in American society and the world at large. The curriculum will include global awareness through the study of world language, history, geography, and current events. Hosting international student exchanges is consistent with this vision, giving Minnetonka students the opportunity to study along side of and develop friendships with students from around the world.
Educational Program
- Policy 601 - District Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
- Policy 603 - Instructional and Curricular Program Review and Improvement
- Policy 604 - Inclusive Education Program
- Policy 606 - Instructional Material Review, Selection and Use
- Policy 607 - Controversial Topics and Materials and the School Program
- Policy 608 - Instructional Services: Special Education
- Policy 609 - Religion
- Policy 612 - Differentiation
- Policy 613 - Graduation Requirements
- Policy 614 - School District Testing Plan and Procedure
- Policy 618 - Assessment of Student Achievement
- Policy 621 - Homework
- Policy 623 - Summer School
- Policy 626 - Secondary Grading and Reporting Pupil Achievement
- Policy 635 - Academic Honors Policy
- Policy 636 - Secondary Academic Integrity Policy
Policy 601 - District Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment
The purpose of this policy is to establish broad curriculum, instruction and assessment parameters that advance high academic and personal achievement and set expectations for a positive and stimulating learning environment critical to student success.
Policy 601 - District Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment (PDF)
Policy 603 - Instructional and Curricular Program Review and Improvement
The purpose of this policy is to provide direction to parents, students, staff, and interested members of the community for involvement in the continuous review and improvement of District instructional and curricular programs.
Policy 603 - Instructional and Curricular Program Review and Improvement (PDF)
Policy 604 - Inclusive Education Program
The purpose of this policy is to inform students, teachers and parents of the District’s commitment to provide equal educational opportunities to all students attending District schools regardless of their cultural or socioeconomic background, gender, or disability. Additionally, Minnetonka Public Schools affirms the importance of multicultural, gender fair, disability sensitive curriculum and instruction.
Policy 606 - Instructional Material Review, Selection and Use
The purpose of this policy is to provide direction for the review, selection and use of textbooks, supplemental books, and other instructional materials.
Policy 606 - Instructional Material Review, Selection and Use (PDF)
Policy 607 - Controversial Topics and Materials and the School Program
A “controversial topic or material” involves a topic or material that is part of the District’s curriculum or media collection about which an individual and/or group urge the District to alter the use of said topic or material in the schools. It may deal with a topic for which society has not found a solution, and it is of sufficient significance that all proposed ways of dealing with it arouses a contrary response, or it may involve a material that contains language or treatment of topics that are objectionable to the citizen challenging the material.
Policy 607 - Controversial Topics and Materials and the School Program (PDF)
Policy 608 - Instructional Services: Special Education
The District believes that all children deserve the opportunity to pursue their individual potential and are committed to providing services and educational opportunities to meet the diverse needs of students. The purpose of this policy is to ensure that the School District carries out these expectations of the School Board and complies with the requirements of law as mandated to assure that students who are in need of special education services are appropriately identified and afforded a free and appropriate public education.
Policy 608 - Instructional Services: Special Education (PDF)
Policy 609 - Religion
The purpose of this policy is to identify the status of religion as it pertains to the programs of the Minnetonka School District.
Policy 609 - Religion (PDF)
Policy 612 - Differentiation
The purpose of this policy is to emphasize effective differentiation as an essential component of a Minnetonka education and to establish alignment of curriculum, instruction, assessment and professional development in support of a positive and stimulating learning environment where students feel respected, cared for, and encouraged to explore challenging learning opportunities.
Policy 613 - Graduation Requirements
Policy 614 - School District Testing Plan and Procedure
It is the purpose of this policy to set forth the District’s testing plan and procedure.
Policy 614 - School District Testing Plan and Procedure (PDF)
Policy 618 - Assessment of Student Achievement
Policy 621 - Homework
The primary purpose of this policy is to communicate a message to students, teachers and parents about the value and benefits of homework.
Policy 621 - Homework (PDF)
Policy 623 - Summer School
Policy 626 - Secondary Grading and Reporting Pupil Achievement
Effective with the 2016-17 academic year.
The purpose of this policy is to establish effective grading and reporting practices that reflect a student’s academic achievement of the course standards for grades 6-12.
Policy 626 - Secondary Grading and Reporting Pupil Achievement (PDF)
Policy 635 - Academic Honors Policy
Policy 636 - Secondary Academic Integrity Policy
Non-Instructional Operations
- Policy 703 - Fund Balance
- Policy 704 - Operating Budget Guidelines
- Policy 705 - Investment of District Funds
- Policy 706 - Gifts and Donations
- Policy 707 - Transportation of Public School Students
- Policy 709 - Student Transportation Safety Policy
- Policy 710 - Public Records Retention Policy
- Policy 719 - Food and Nutrition Services Policy
- Policy 721 - Petty Cash Funds
- Policy 723 - OPEB Trust Fund Asset Withdrawal Policy
- Policy 725 - Liability Insurance for Parent Volunteer Organizations
- Policy 730 - Liability Indemnification
- Policy 731 - Debarment Policy on Non-Responsible Vendor in Procurement Transactions
Policy 703 - Fund Balance
Policy 704 - Operating Budget Guidelines
Policy 705 - Investment of District Funds
Policy 706 - Gifts and Donations
Policy 707 - Transportation of Public School Students
Policy 709 - Student Transportation Safety Policy
Policy 710 - Public Records Retention Policy
It is the policy of the Minnetonka School District that its records, including both paper and electronic, be retained only as long as determined necessary to meet legal, audit and management requirements, per the State of Minnesota’s School District General Records Retention Schedule. In each case, the official retention periods shall be as short as possible in order to minimize the use of valuable space, promote efficiency, assist in the day-to-day operations of the District, and reduce the cost of storage for unneeded records inventory.
Policy 719 - Food and Nutrition Services Policy
Policy 721 - Petty Cash Funds
Policy 723 - OPEB Trust Fund Asset Withdrawal Policy
The Other Post Employment Benefits Revocable Trust contains assets that are invested to accrue earnings to assist in paying the Other Post Employment Benefit obligation of the District. From time to time the investment earnings may exceed the amount necessary to fund the Other Post Employment Benefit obligations of the District. When that occurs, Minnesota Statutes allow for School Board discretion in the utilization of excess assets. This policy is intended to provide guidelines for the School Board decision making process in those circumstances.
Policy 725 - Liability Insurance for Parent Volunteer Organizations
The purpose of this policy is to incorporate under the District’s general liability insurance plan members of parent volunteer organizations who support the curricular or extra curricular activities of District students by offering District provided financial administration of their organization within the District’s Trust and Agency Fund.
Policy 725 - Liability Insurance for Parent Volunteer Organizations (PDF)
Policy 730 - Liability Indemnification
Policy 731 - Debarment Policy on Non-Responsible Vendor in Procurement Transactions
A. It is the policy of the Minnetonka Independent School District 276 to maintain the integrity of the District’s procurement process by conducting business legally and only with responsible vendors. Toward this end, the District has the discretion to exclude from participation in its procurement transactions and activities any vendor who is debarred pursuant to this Debarment Policy or who appears on any suspended, excluded or debarment list issued by any agency of any federal, state or local government.
B. Debarment is a serious action that may lead to a vendor being excluded from procurement transactions with the District for a period of up to three (3) years. Accordingly, this Debarment Policy provides a vendor subject to a debarment action with notice pursuant to which the seriousness of the vendor’s acts or omissions and any mitigating factors will be considered in making any debarment decision. Debarment shall be used only in the public interest and for the District’s protection, not for purposes of punishment. The District maintains a list of vendors that are debarred from doing business with the District.
Policy 731 - Debarment Policy on Non-Responsible Vendor in Procurement Transactions (PDF)
Buildings and Sites
- Policy 802 - Disposition of Obsolete Equipment and Material
- Policy 803 - Warning Systems and Emergency Plans
- Policy 806 - Crisis Management Policy
- Policy 807 - Building and Site Improvements Policy
- Policy 808 - Employee Use of District Equipment
- Policy 809 - Naming of Schools and Sites
Policy 802 - Disposition of Obsolete Equipment and Material
Policy 803 - Warning Systems and Emergency Plans
Policy 806 - Crisis Management Policy
The purpose of this Crisis Management Policy is to act as a guide for School District administration, building administrators, school employees, students, school board members, and community members to address a wide range of potential crisis situations in the District. The step-by-step procedures suggested by this policy will provide guidance to each school building in drafting crisis management plans to coordinate protective actions prior to, during, and after any type of emergency or potential crisis situation.
The District will, to the extent possible, engage in ongoing emergency planning within the District and with first responders and other relevant community organizations. The District will ensure that relevant first responders in the community have access to their building-specific crisis management plans and will provide training to District staff to enable them to act appropriately in the event of a crisis.
Policy 807 - Building and Site Improvements Policy
Policy 808 - Employee Use of District Equipment
Policy 809 - Naming of Schools and Sites
Schools and sites shall normally be given names which are indicative of the areas in which they are located. Schools may be named for individuals who have achieved significant places in America, Minnesota or School District life, when appropriate or entities which have contributed significantly to the District. The names of sites which serve a District-wide function (e.g., Administrative Services, Community Education) and for facilities or portions of facilities which are jointly owned by the District and other entities may be named to illustrate the nature of their role in the District. Furthermore, the name of a facility may be removed upon a vote of the Board for valid reasons. Facilities constructed through a partnership between a community organization and the District may be named by the respective community organization if they provide most or all of the funding and the Board approves the name.
School Community Relations
- Policy 900 - Communications and Public Information
- Policy 901 - Community Education Policy
- Policy 902 - Use of School District Facilities and Equipment
- Policy 903 - Visitors to Schools and Sites
- Policy 904 - Family Partnership Policy
- Policy 905 - Advertising
- Policy 906 - Mass Communication and School Announcements
- Policy 907 - Distribution of Materials on School District Property by Non-school Organizations and Persons
- Policy 908 - Complimentary Admission to School Events
- Policy 909 - Scheduling School Events
- Policy 910 - Media Relations
- Policy 911 - Rewards
- Policy 913 - Closing of School in an Emergency
Policy 900 - Communications and Public Information
Effective communications are essential for the continued success for the Minnetonka School District. The purpose of this policy is to ensure effective, results-oriented, two-way communication that increases awareness, understanding, interest in, and support for the students, staff, programs, and goals of the Minnetonka Public School District – a learning community that inspires all people to excel.
Policy 901 - Community Education Policy
Policy 902 - Use of School District Facilities and Equipment
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for community use of District facilities and equipment.
Policy 902 - Use of School District Facilities and Equipment (PDF)
Policy 903 - Visitors to Schools and Sites
Policy 904 - Family Partnership Policy
Policy 905 - Advertising
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines for the advertising or promoting of products or services to students and parents in the schools.
Policy 905 - Advertising (PDF)
Policy 906 - Mass Communication and School Announcements
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines to School District administrators and employees regarding the use of mass communication tools, such as the public address, e-mail, and phone messaging systems.
Policy 906 - Mass Communication and School Announcements (PDF)
Policy 907 - Distribution of Materials on School District Property by Non-school Organizations and Persons
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines to School District employees regarding the way in which materials relative to activities, events, and opportunities may be publicized and/or distributed by students and schools in the District. The School Board, though the Superintendent, is responsible for determining the type of handbills, posters, and/or other materials which may be distributed to students, employees, and school patrons on school grounds and in school buildings and for determining the conditions under which approved distribution may occur.
Policy 908 - Complimentary Admission to School Events
Policy 909 - Scheduling School Events
Policy 910 - Media Relations
The Minnetonka School Board recognizes the important role of the news media in keeping the public informed about the programs, services, polices, procedures, events, public issues and decisions of the Minnetonka School District. The purpose of this policy is to ensure there is consistency and fairness in dealing with media representatives, to present accurate information, to minimize the possibility of errors or conflicting information, to encourage respect for and cooperation with media representatives, to protect the rights and privacy of students, staff, and families, and to ensure that media relations efforts support and promote the mission and objectives of the Minnetonka School District.
Policy 911 - Rewards
The purpose of this policy is to authorize the School Board to offer rewards to persons who provide accurate and reliable information leading to the conviction of a person who has committed or conspired to commit a crime against students or school employees, volunteers, or school board members as a result of their affiliation with the School District, or against School District property.
Policy 911 - Rewards (PDF)
Policy 913 - Closing of School in an Emergency
It shall be the policy of the Minnetonka School District to hold school on all regularly scheduled days unless highly unusual circumstances make this impractical. The Superintendent, or designee, may close schools or shorten the school day when, in his best judgment, this is deemed advisable for welfare of the pupils.