Overview


One of the school board’s major functions is the approval of policy. The board adopts district policy governing all facets of school operations, including employment of staff, administration of student services, educational programs, instructional materials, school facilities, equipment, finance, and support services. A board can adopt policy upon the recommendation of the superintendent, but the final decisions on policy cannot be delegated. The Superintendent develops and maintains a current policy manual. The policies are intended both as a tool for district managment as well as a source of information to patrons, staff and others about how the district operates. In conjunction with the Board of Directors and staff, policies are continually reviewed and updated throughout the year.

Policy versus Procedure

Policies are the legally binding and enforceable mechanism by which the board establishes the governance framework of the district.

A process or plan implementing district policy is commonly defined as an administrative regulation or procedure. The development and implementation of these regulations or procedures are appropriately left to the district’s administrators. Procedures guide implementation of policy, define standard operating procedure, and generally allow room for professional discretion and judgment, as appropriate. Procedures should be reviewed and revised by administrators as policy changes or circumstances warrant. Procedures are not adopted by the board.

The Sequim School District policy and procedures system covers the following areas of governance:

POLICY AND PROCEDURE

0000 Planning


1000 Board of Directors

This series contains the bylaws of the Board, describes the terms of office and member responsibilities, the methods of governance, meeting structure, principles of operations, and development activities.


2000 Instruction

This series describes educational program development and resources, learning programs and supports, school organization, program supplements, and requirements and assessments.


3000 Students

This series focuses on students' enrollment and attendance, their rights and responsibilities, classroom management, corrective actions and sanctions, student welfare, and student activities.


4000 Community Relations

This series relates to communications with the public, relations with other agencies and schools, and public access to schools, staff and students.


5000 Personnel

This series describes the recruitment and selection of staff, employment practices, benefits, leaves, reimbursements for travel, auxiliary personnel, and employment practices.


6000 Management Support

This series includes elements of financial planning and management, revenues, rentals and community use of facilities, purchasing practices, risk management, transportation, food services, management of school property, and capitol projects.