Webb City School District

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4110

Employment

Equal Opportunity Employment

The Board of Education of the School District is an equal opportunity employer. The Board is committed to providing equal opportunity for all individuals in all areas of recruitment, selection, placement, training, assignment, transfer, compensation, benefits, discipline, retention, and promotion. The Board commits itself to the policy that there shall be no unlawful discrimination or harassment against any person because of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, ethnicity, disability, sex orientation or perceived sex orientation. All decisions with regard to employment shall be in compliance with applicable state and federal laws.

The Board is required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act to employ only American citizens and aliens who are authorized to work in the United States. The purpose of this law is to preserve jobs for those individuals who are legally entitled to them.

Updated: 12/14/10

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4120

Employment

Employment Procedures

The Board of Education, upon recommendation of the Superintendent, votes on the employment of all staff members. In approving applicants, the Board will be guided by the desire to obtain individuals committed to providing the highest quality education for the District's students. For Title I staff qualifications and hiring, refer to Policy and Regulation 1621 – Title I.

No person will be employed by the Board until the District obtains a clear criminal record check and a clear check of the DHSS Family Care Safety Registry. Additionally, and prior to offering employment to any teacher who had previously been employed by a Missouri school district or charter school, the Superintendent/designee shall obtain from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education the identity of the school district or charter school that had previously employed the applicant. The District will contact the former employer to determine if such applicant had been terminated or resigned in lieu of termination; or against whom allegations of sexual misconduct had been substantiated by the Children’s Division.

All persons employed by outside vendors/contractors who will have contact with students will be required to successfully undergo a criminal record check and a clear check of the Child Abuse/Neglect Registry prior to contact with students. Such background checks will be performed at the vendors/contractors’ expense and will, upon request, be shared with the District. All finalists for an employment position will be required to sign a release of liability authorizing prior employers, including school districts, to furnish any information about the applicant and the applicant’s work performance, including but not limited to discipline records and performance evaluations. The administration may also conduct random background checks after employment. Failure to check references and prior employment for new hires prior to their start date may result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension without pay.

The District will participate in the Missouri Rap Back Program. In doing so, the District will comply with all procedures issued by the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigations regarding the Missouri and National Rap Back Program. As a result, the District will be notified by the Highway Patrol when a new arrest has been reported of a District employee. The District will then request the individual’s updated criminal record history.

As part of the criminal records check, any person employed after January 1, 2005, shall submit two sets of fingerprints to be used by the Missouri Highway Patrol and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The fingerprints shall be collected pursuant to standards determined by the Missouri Highway Patrol. All District employees who are authorized to access the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS) will only use such criminal history information for purposes of verifying qualifications for employment. The District will not create copies of the criminal record for employment record purposes and will not disseminate the record, except as permitted by law.

The District will designate a full-time employee, who will be fully trained in the Missouri Highway Patrol’s automated criminal history site (MACHS), to serve as the District Local Agency Security Officer (LASO). The District’s LASO Security Officer will be responsible for implementation and oversight of the District’s Use of MACHS for all applicants. Any employee who attempts to access MACHS without authorization, improperly disseminates an applicant’s criminal history record or facilitates unauthorized access to MACHS, will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination. Such improper use of the MACHS system constitutes an “incident” requiring reporting. Immediately upon knowledge of an “incident,” the District’s Local Agency Security Officer (LASO) will be notified, in writing, describing the “incident.” The LASO Officer will then notify the Missouri Highway Patrol with the details of the “incident.”

All vacancies should be posted for a minimum of ten (10) school days before the Superintendent may recommend a qualified applicant to the Board for employment. In an emergency situation the Superintendent may temporarily employ an applicant prior to the expiration of the posting. The temporary applicant may be considered along with other applicants for the position after the ten days. However, in order to hire a Board member's spouse, the position must have been posted for a minimum of ten (10) days. (Refer to Policy 0342 – Nepotism, Conflict of Interest and Financial Disclosure.)

The Superintendent or his designee is the person who shall respond to requests from potential employers for information regarding a former District employee. The information the District should provide is title, position, length of employment, whether the employee was terminated or resigned, and whether the District would re-hire the employee.

Additionally, when requests for information from any public school regarding a former employee against whom allegations of sexual misconduct involving a student have resulted in a determination by the Board of an actual violation of sexual misconduct pursuant to Board Policy; a resignation in lieu of termination; or allegations of sexual misconduct that have been substantiated by Children’s Division, the Superintendent or his designee shall disclose to the requesting school the allegations of sexual misconduct and the findings of a Children’s Division investigation.

Any school district employee who is permitted to respond to requests for information, acting in good faith, who reports authorized information, as provided in this policy or, who, in good faith, reports alleged sexual misconduct on the part of a District employee, will not be disciplined or discriminated against because of such report.

This foregoing policy is intended to comply with the Amy Hestir Student Protection Act, Senate Bill 54, including section 162.068 RSMo. The District shall provide notice of this policy to all current employees and to all potential employers who contact the District regarding the possible employment of a District employee.

Updated: 10/10/23

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4121

Employment

Notice of Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)

The District will provide all new employees, within ten (10) days of beginning service with the District, with current, accurate and complete information about their eligibility for public service loan forgiveness (PSLF). This same information concerning eligibility for participation in the PSLF Program will be provided to all current employees who are employed by the District on June 30, 2017.

Updated: 10/11/16

PERSONNEL Policy 4125

Employment

Notice of Arrest, Abuse Complaint, Traffic Citation

Every employee and volunteer who is arrested for a criminal act, felony, or misdemeanor must notify their supervisor in writing within three (3) work days of the arrest. Similarly, every employee/volunteer must notify their supervisor within the same time period of notice of a child abuse complaint against them. Traffic violations related to Driving Under the Influence will be treated as a criminal arrest. In addition to the preceding, transportation employees must notify their supervisors of any moving traffic violations whether or not on work time.

Whenever the District receives a finding of substantiated sexual or physical abuse from the Children's Division against an employee, the employee will be immediately suspended with pay. The employee so affected may be returned to work if the allegation is unsubstantiated, revised or reversed on appeal.

Updated: 11/08/11

Personnel Services Policy 4130

Employment

Certificated Staff Contracts

Employment contracts will be in writing and will be signed by the employee, the Board president and the Board secretary. Contracts will include the amount of annual compensation and the days of service.

Certificated staff members under contract include probationary teachers, permanent teachers and administrative staff. The probationary period allows a teacher to demonstrate, and the District to assess the teacher’s competence. Beginning after the initial one (1) year contract, teachers who have demonstrated their competence through performance may be offered additional contracts.

The Board may elect to employ certain certificated individuals on a part-time basis, as needed. Part-time certificated employees will be contracted as a percentage of full-time employment. Part-time employees will not be provided the benefits provided to full-time employees. In addition, part-time certificated employees who do not teach at least 17 hours per week will not be eligible for pension benefits.

Alternative Certification

Applicants who have not successfully achieved a qualifying score on the teacher examination are issued two-year nonrenewable provisional certificates.

During the two-year provisional period, the affected teacher may gain full teacher certification by:

Achieving a qualifying score on the designated exam; or
Successfully achieving an acceptable score on the state-approved evaluation system from seven walk-through evaluations; two formative evaluations; and one summative evaluation for each of the two provisional years and being offered a third contract by the District; and
District recommendation to DESE that the teacher be given full teaching certification.

Online Teacher Preparation Program

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) is developing and will maintain an eighteen (18) hour online teacher preparation program related to subjects appropriate for elementary and secondary education settings. An individual with a bachelor’s degree may complete an eighteen (18) hour online training program created by DESE or by an approved charitable organization. Individuals satisfactorily completing such a program will receive a teacher certificate. However, such certificate will not be accepted by the District but may be accepted by private schools as well as private school accrediting agencies.

Visiting Scholar Certificate

The District may employ teachers with the Visiting Scholar Certification under the following provisions:

Verification from the District that such teacher will be employed as part of a business-education partnership designed to build career-pathways to teach in the ninth grade or higher for which the teacher’s academic degree or professional experience qualifies the teacher or employed as part of an initiative designed to fill vacant positions in hard-to-staff public schools or hard-to-fill subject areas for students in a grade or grades not lower than the ninth grade for which the applicant’s academic degree or professional experience qualifies the applicant.
Appropriate and relevant bachelor’s degree or higher, occupational license or industry-related recognized credential.
Completion of the application for a one year visiting scholar certificate.
Completion of a background check as required by state law.

Under these circumstances, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education may issue a one year visiting scholar certificate. The visiting scholar may renew their certificate for a maximum of two (2) years based upon completion or completion of the requirements listed above; Completion of professional development required by the District and attainment of a satisfactory performance-based teacher evaluation.

In addition, the holder of a Visiting Scholar Certificate may be renewed by the state board’s issuance of an additional professional subject-area certification for specific content knowledge, or for a specialty area to a certificate holder who:

Applies for an additional professional subject area certification.
Successfully achieves an acceptable score on the state approved evaluation system from seven walk-through evaluations, two formative evaluations, and one summative evaluation of the applicant’s teaching specific content knowledge or the specialty areas for which the additional professional subject area certification is sought.
Receives the applicant’s employing district’s recommendation to the state board that the applicant be given an additional professional subject-area certification under the rules prescribed by the state board.
Completes a background check as required in Policy 4120.

Updated: 11/12/24

PERSONNEL Policy 4131

Employment

Extra Duty and Extended Contracts

Certificated employees may be contracted to provide sponsorship and coaching duties as recommended by the Superintendent and approved by the Board. Compensation for such positions will be provided in accordance with a Board approved extra duty salary schedule.

Certificated employees may be contracted for additional days beyond the regular contract period. Compensation for such extended duty will be calculated on the existing salary schedule. The Board may establish a separate salary schedule for summer school assignments.

Assignment to extra duty, extended duty and summer school is for one (1) year only and may be renewed or eliminated annually upon the recommendation of the Superintendent and at the discretion of the Board.

PERSONNEL Policy 4140

Employment

Certificated Personnel Reemployment

The reemployment of teachers shall be considered not later than the regular March meeting of the Board. All employees shall be recommended by the Superintendent and the appropriate principal.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4150

Employment

Substitute Teacher Employment

The Board of Education will employ qualified substitutes for all employee groups. The Superintendent/designee will prepare and submit to the Board a procedure for reporting absences, assigning substitutes and developing a substitute compensation plan.

Substitute teachers shall meet all requirements as established by the State Board of Education. Rate of compensation shall be according to the annual school budget approved by the Board of Education.

Records shall be kept by the Superintendent concerning number of days taught by substitutes and the amount of funds expended. The Board shall be informed concerning this data at periodic intervals.

Retired Certificated Employees

Retired certificated employees may be employed to substitute teach in the District on a part-time or temporary substitute basis without a discontinuance of their retirement allowance. Such individuals may also be utilized by the District as a part-time or temporary substitute through a third-party or as an independent contractor. No deduction will be made for retirement purposes.

Retired certificated employees may be employed as a full-time substitute in the District. However, during any month of full-time employment, the individual’s retirement payment will be discontinued. Such retirees may be required by the retirement system to provide documentation showing compliance with this provision.

Substitute Teacher Certificates

The State Board of Education may grant such certificate to an individual who has completed:

At least 36 semester hours at an accredited institution of higher education; or
The 24-hour online training program requirement required by the State and who possesses a high school diploma or the equivalent.

Such certificate may also be granted for a qualified individual with expertise in a technical business field or with experience in the Armed Forces of the United States and who has completed a background check. No such substitute teacher certificate holder who is under 20 years of age may be a substitute in grades 9 to 12. Such certificate is valid for 4 years. A substitute certificate will expire at the end of any calendar year in which the substitute has failed to substitute teach for at least five (5) days for 40 hours of in-seat instruction.

Substitute Teacher Survey

Each substitute teacher will complete a DESE survey at the end of each day of teaching. The District will provide substitute teachers, by email, a weblink to the survey. If needed, the District will provide brief access to a computer or other device to allow completion of the survey or if preferred the substitute’s personal device.

Reporting

The District will annually provide information to DESE regarding use of third-party employment agencies for substitute teachers; daily rate of substitute pay; employment of full-time or part-time substitute teachers; substitute teachers’ recruitment efforts; interview process as well as use of current school staff as substitute teachers during unassigned time.

Updated: 10/11/22

PERSONNEL Policy 4210

Personnel Assignments and Transfer

Transfer Request

Staff accepting employment with the District agree to accept the building assignment of the Superintendent of Schools. Staff will not be assigned where they would be under the direct supervision of a member of the employee’s immediate family (father, mother, son, daughter, sister, brother, or spouse).

Staff transfers may be initiated by administrative directive or by staff request. In order to facilitate awareness of opportunities, the Superintendent/designee will post vacancies on bulletin boards in each school. The decision concerning filling of the vacancy or new positions by transfer will be made by the Superintendent in consultation with the building principals affected.

An employee who desires a change in grade and/or subject assignment and/or a transfer to another building shall request the transfer in writing to the Superintendent of Schools.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4220

Personnel Assignment and Transfer

Certificated Staff Duties, Schedules and Working Hours

The school year will be set annually by the Board of Education. The start date, end date, and number of contracted days will be contained in staff contracts. The length of the teaching day will also be set by the Board.

Certificated staff are required to be on duty during the teaching day. In addition to the teaching day, certificated staff are required to attend scheduled staff meetings, parent conference days, IEP meetings, and other meetings as may be determined by the administration and Board of Education.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4221

Personnel Assignments and Transfer

Educational Support Staff Duties, Schedules and Working Hours

The school year will be set annually by the Board of Education. The start date, end date, and number of work days will be set by the Board of Education.

The working hours for eight (8) hour employees are generally from 8:00 am. to 4:30 p.m. with one –half hour for lunch. The starting and ending times may be changed by the administration as needed. The hours for those employees who work less than eight (8) hours are as set by their supervisors. Rest periods will be coordinated by the administrator in charge of each building.

Good attendance is encouraged. Whenever possible, employees should notify their supervisor a day in advance when they are to be absent. Employees should call as soon as possible when an emergency arises which prevents them from reporting to work on time, in order to allow time to secure a substitute if necessary.

Time Records

All support staff personnel must maintain an accurate record of hours worked, vacation days used, sick days claimed, or work missed for other reasons. This time record shall be submitted to the immediate supervisor and/or building principal for review, and then to the Associate Superintendent for approval for payment.

Overtime/Compensatory Time

Individuals who begin work earlier or work later than their assigned hours must receive prior authorization from their immediate supervisor as per District regulations.

Any time worked over forty (40) hours in any one week will be considered overtime and paid at the rate of one and one-half (1-1/2) times the regular rate of pay. This provision applies to hourly workers only

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4310

Absences, Leave and Vacation

General Attendance

Regular attendance is essential in providing District students with a high quality of instruction. Full-time staff will have available ten (10) days of sick leave per school year cumulative to 150 days. Part-time (supplemental) employees are not covered under this provision.

Extended Absence

The employment of personnel who have missed ninety (90) successive work days due to illness or injury, will be reviewed by the Board.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4320

Absences, Leave and Vacation

Personnel Leave

The Board of Education shall adopt regulations for the following types of leave for District employees:

Sick Leave
Personal Leave
Bereavement Leave
Leave for Jury Duty
Military Leave
Leave of Absence
Family and Medical Care Leave (See Policy and Regulation 4321.)
Domestic/Sexual Violence Victim Leave

Updated: 9/14/21

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4321

Absences, Leave and Vacation

Family and Medical Leave

The Board of Education recognizes that leaves of absence are occasionally necessary due to family or medical reasons or in certain circumstances associated with service members' service in the Armed Forces. The District has adopted detailed procedures to ensure compliance with the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA). As provided by District regulations, eligible employees are entitled to use up to twelve (12) workweeks of unpaid leave for family and medical reasons (up to 26 workweeks for covered events related to those serving in the Armed Forces). The Board of Education has designated a District administrator to act as FMLA Compliance Officer. As part of its compliance program, the District will notify each employee of the name, address and telephone number of the District's FMLA Compliance Officer and will provide a statement of commitment to adhere to FMLA regulations. The FMLA Compliance Officer will regularly evaluate the District's FMLA compliance to ensure fair and equitable opportunities for all eligible employees.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4322

Absences, Leave and Vacation

Domestic/Sexual Violence Victim Leave

The District will provide unpaid leave for employees who become victims of domestic or sexual violence and for an employee whose family or household member becomes a victim of domestic or sexual violence. Eligible employees will receive up to two (2) weeks of unpaid leave during any twelve-month period. Such leave may be taken intermittently or on a reduced work schedule. Employees seeking leave under this policy must provide their supervisor with at least forty-eight (48) hours’ advance notice, if practicable, of their intent to take leave under this policy. When an unscheduled absence occurs, the employee must, within reasonable period after the absence, provide certification of the approved reason for the leave as provided in this policy. Employees returning from leave under this policy, will be restored to the position held prior to leave or to an equivalent position with equivalent benefits, pay and other terms and conditions of employment.

*Districts employing 20-25 employees need to provide one week of unpaid leave.

Updated: 09/14/21

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4330

Absences, Leave and Vacation

Holidays and Vacation

The Board will annually adopt a calendar which will provide for the following paid holidays for full-time staff who are employed for twelve (12) months.

New Year’s Day

2. Memorial Day

Independence Day

Labor Day

Thanksgiving

Christmas Eve, if it falls on a week day

Christmas Day

Vacations

Full-time employees of the school system who are employed on a twelve (12) month basis and who have been in the service of the District for a period of one (1) year shall be entitled to a two (2) week paid vacation annually. Full-time employees with the District for a period of six (6) months shall be entitled to a one (1) week paid vacation. Such employees with ten (10) years continuous service to the District shall be granted a three (3) week paid vacation annually.

Vacations shall be taken during the summer months or at a time arranged with the Superintendent or his representative. Vacation time is not cumulative beyond one (1) year. The Board is not obligated to pay for accumulated vacation time for personnel leaving the employment of the District.

Part-time personnel are not covered under these provisions.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4340

Absences, Leave and Vacation

Accumulated Sick Leave

Upon retirement from the Webb City R-VII School District, employees may be eligible for reimbursement for unused sick leave. The following criteria will determine eligibility:

The employee must have been eligible for sick leave benefits;
The employee must be terminating employment with the Webb City R-VII School District and be eligible to receive benefits from either the Missouri State Teacher Retirement System or the Missouri State Non-Teacher Retirement System;
The employee must have begun to receive retirement benefits from either the Missouri State Teacher Retirement System or the Missouri State Non- Teacher Retirement System at the time he/she accepts this benefit.

All employees who meet these criteria will be eligible to receive fifteen percent (15%) of their final normal daily salary rate times the number of unused sick days they have accumulated.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4400

Professional Activities, Training and Professional Growth

The District believes that the provision of the highest quality education to its students requires the continuous efforts of all employees and Board members to upgrade and evaluate their professional skills. A variety of professional development opportunities will be provided by the District. The Board encourages the faculty to take advantage of the continuing opportunities for professional growth. An improvement plan, developed by a Professional Development Committee and approved by the Board, shall promote:

Professional Growth and Learning Plan – Annually all certificated staff shall develop, maintain and meet collaboratively with their immediate supervisor to evaluate and update their Professional Growth and Learning Plan. Eligibility for annual longevity salary increases (moving down the salary schedule) shall require satisfactory performance as measured by District Performance Standards outlined in the Professional Growth and Learning Plan. Failure to demonstrate satisfactory performance, which results in being placed on a Professional Improvement Plan as defined in the Professional Growth and Learning Plan Component III: Teacher Assistance Phase, shall be deemed ineligible for longevity salary increases (moving down the salary schedule) until the concerns are resolved and no further action required.
College Attendance - To encourage and assist teachers to complete further study they will be paid an amount approved by the Board for graduate college credit earned (up to nine hours per year) in his/her teaching field that meets PDC requirements while in the employment of the District. Their plan for taking courses will be discussed with their immediate supervisor and included in their Professional Growth and Learning Plan. Reimbursement for college credit will be made annually on June 20, to staff members who are employed for the following school year.
Professional Organizations - The Board recognizes the contributions of the WCCTA and other professional organizations and encourages teachers to join and support such organizations of their choosing. As a service to the local association, WCCTA dues will be deducted from the payroll if authorized by the teacher.
In-service Activity Workshops - The staff is expected to participate in in- service activities organized to meet their needs and the needs of the District directed toward the improvement of instruction.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4410

Professional Activities, Training and Professional Growth

General Professional Development

Today's dynamic and rapidly changing society, with its tremendous accumulation of new knowledge and the attending obsolescence in some areas of practice, makes it imperative that all staff members, teachers, clerical, technical, operations maintenance, and administration be engaged in a continuous program of professional and technical growth in order that they may be qualified to provide a quality educational program for all students being served by the District.

It is the policy of the Board of Education that a program of in-service training be established to provide an opportunity for the continuous professional and technical growth of teachers of the school system. The program for in-service will be outlined by the PDC chairperson and presented with a proposed to be approved annually by the Board of Education.

As a result of the operation of this policy, staff members will become knowledgeable regarding new developments and changes in their specialized fields and will utilize new and improved methods in practice.

The administrative staff, employing administration and management techniques consistent with modern management development, will provide leadership which will assist each staff member to make a maximum contribution to the District's effort to provide a quality educational program for all students.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4411

Professional Activities, Training and Professional Growth

Professional Development Committee

The Board shall provide a Professional Development Program to be in compliance with State Statutes regarding assistance for beginning teachers. A committee will be elected by the teachers to develop a plan to carry out the goals of the Professional Development Program.

The Professional Development Program shall further be in compliance with the "Outstanding Schools Act" Section 7 of Senate Bill #380 of the 87th General Assembly.

The District will establish a Professional Development Committee to work with beginning teachers and experienced teachers in identifying instructional concerns and remedies; assist beginning teachers with implementation of their professional development plan; serve as a consultant upon a teacher's request; arrange training programs for mentors; assess faculty needs and develop in-service opportunities for school staff; present faculty suggestions, ideas and recommendations pertaining to classroom instruction within the School District; and review and evaluate the District's staff development program.

Updated: 10/08/19

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4420

Professional Activities, Training and Professional Growth

Conferences and Travel

The Superintendent may authorize professional leave for attendance of personnel at state, regional, and national meetings without pay deduction. The number of absences allowable for professional leave is a judgment value on the part of the Superintendent and is subject to budget limitations for employing substitutes and reimbursement for travel, meals and lodging and registration.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4430

Professional Activities, Training and Professional Growth

District Committees

Guidelines for District-wide Committees

A written description of each district-wide committee established in the District will be posted in each building explaining the goals and objectives of the committee and the method used to select members to the committee.

Each committee will write a summary report of its findings and/or recommendations and present this to the appropriate administrator. The chairperson of said committee will present this report to the Board of Education at the appropriate scheduled Board meeting.

Guidelines for District-wide Committees with Employee Representation

District-wide committees may be formed for the purpose of recommending policy changes to the administration and Board. Employees who are selected to serve on these committees should represent all buildings and/or interests of the employee group(s).

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4440

Professional Activities, Training and Professional Grants

Mentoring

The District’s mentoring goal is to facilitate the growth and development of new educators by pairing them with experienced veteran educators. Through the effort of both the mentor and the mentee, the mentee shall draw upon the experience and knowledge of the veteran mentor to enhance their own professional skills and enhance student learning. It is vital to the success of our students that new educators become integrated, through the mentoring program, into the school’s culture and are given the opportunity to better themselves with the assistance of one of their veteran peers.

Through the mentoring program the Board hopes to not only create a stronger learning community but also a community where the strong professional and personal bonds between the educators in the District provide students and employees the best possible working and learning environment.

Updated: 09/09/14

Personnel Services Policy 4505

Salary Schedules

Compensation

The Superintendent, with input from staff members, will prepare salary schedules annually for all non-administrative employee groups. These schedules will be submitted to the Board of Education for approval. (See also Policy 4131 – Extra Duty and Extended Duty Contracts.). Salary recommendations for all administrators will be prepared and submitted to the Board annually. Administrative salaries will be based upon a variety of factors including, educational preparation, years of service within the District, and within public education, years of service as an administrator at each administrative level, years of service within the District, regional comparisons to similar districts, number of contracted days, administrative responsibilities, and salaries of other District administrators within category – building and central office. Consideration will be given to administrators’ previous salary for all newly hired administrators.

Hard-to-Staff Schools

The Board of Education may utilize a differentiated placement on the District’s salary schedule to increase compensation and to facilitate recruiting and retention of teachers in hard to staff subject areas and hard to staff schools. No modifications will result in the demotion of any teacher on the salary schedule. The Board of Education will take action on the District’s salary schedule after all schedule differentiations have been made.

Definitions

“Hard-to-Staff Schools” – attendance centers in which the percentage of certificated positions that were left vacant or were filled with a teacher not fully qualified in the prior academic year exceeds ten (10%) percent as reported to DESE.

“Hard-to-Staff Subject Areas” – Content areas for which positions were left open or were filled with a teacher not fully qualified in the prior academic year, as reported to DESE.

Reporting

The District when using differentiated placement on the salary schedule under this Policy will annually report to DESE as follows:

The salary schedule adopted by the District.
The number of positions filled by teachers placed on the salary schedule for hard-to-staff subject areas.
The number of positions filled with teachers placed on the salary schedule for hard-to-staff schedules.
The number of steps and additional compensation that teachers with differentiated placement received for the school year.
Any other relevant information requested by the department.

Updated: 11/12/24

Personnel Services Policy 4506

Compensation

Minimum Teachers’ Salary

Beginning with the 2025-26 school year and thereafter, the minimum teachers’ salary will be Forty Thousand Dollars ($40,000) per school year.

Full-time teachers with a master’s degree and at least ten (10) years of teacher experience in a public school(s) will receive Thirty-three Thousand Dollars ($33,000) minimum salary for the 2025-26 school year, the minimum teaching salary for any full-time teacher with a master’s degree in an academic teaching field directly related to the teacher’s assignment and possession of at least ten (10) years teaching experience in a public school(s) will be Forty-six Thousand Dollars ($46,000).

In the 2026-27 school year, such minimum salary will be Forty-seven Thousand Dollars ($47,000).
In the 2027-28 school year, such minimum salary will be Forty-eight Thousand Dollars ($48,000).
In the 2028-29 school year and in subsequent years, such minimum salaries will be adjusted annually by the percentage increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

If the CPI report for January of a given year shows that inflation increased over the previous twelve (12) months, DESE will increase the minimum salary by the same percentage increase in inflation, not to exceed three percent (3%).

Modifications to the minimum teacher salaries will take effect on July 1 of each calendar year.

Subject to the appropriation of monies to the teacher baseline salary grant fund, the District will apply to DESE for a grant of monies from the teacher baseline grant fund to assist the District in increasing minimum teachers’ salaries as provided in this policy.

Updated: 11/12/24

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4510

Compensation

Benefits

The Board of Education provides fringe benefits to full-time staff members. The extent and nature of fringe benefits provided may vary by employee group and work schedule.

Insurance coverage for staff members includes:

1. Liability Insurance

2. Workers Compensation Insurance

3. Unemployment Compensation Insurance

4. Medicare Coverage

5. Medical Insurance

6. Life and Accidental Death

Personnel Services Policy 4515

Compensation

Career Ladder

The District participates in the Missouri Career Development and Teacher Excellence Plan, otherwise known as “Career Ladders.” The Career Ladders program is a voluntary program in which the district participates. The “Program” provides a salary supplement for certificated employees including classroom teachers, librarians, counselors, psychological examiners, parents as teachers, educators, school psychologists and speech pathologists. Certificated staff become eligible to apply for participation after two years of public-school teaching in Missouri. However, the two-year requirement does not apply to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States or such member’s spouse who has teaching experience in another state and who has been transferred to this state. In exchange for a salary supplement, participating staff provide additional education services outside of the duties that require a teaching certificate. (Regulation 4515).

Updated: 11/12/24

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4520

Compensation

Deductions

Withholding Taxes

A Federal withholding tax is retained for the Collector of Internal Revenue as payment on Federal Income Tax for the current year. The amount withheld is determined by salary and the number of dependents. No salary check will be issued until all withholding forms are submitted.

A State withholding tax is retained for the Missouri Department of Revenue. The amount withheld is determined in the same manner as the Federal Income Tax. Employees may authorize additional sums to be withheld by notifying the payroll department in writing and completing a new W-4 form indicating the additional amount to be withheld each pay period. No salary checks will be issued until all withholding forms are submitted.

Public School Retirement System (PSRS) of Missouri

All full-time teachers and part-time teachers who work seventeen (17) hours or more per week are members of PSRS. Support employees with a teaching certificate are also eligible for membership in PSRS.

Public Education Employees Retirement System (PEERS)

All support employees who work twenty (20) hours or more per week on a regular basis for thirty (30) calendar days are members of PEERS and are also covered by Social Security.

Medical

Medical insurance payments will be deducted for all employees on a twelve (12) month prorated basis each month.

Credit Union and Tax Sheltered Plan

Credit Union and Tax Sheltered Plans will be deducted under the terms of the respective contracts.

Tax Sheltered Annuities

The School District provides for payroll deduction and processing for employees participating in tax-sheltered annuities.

Additional Deductions

Any staff member may authorize additional voluntary deductions for payment of tax-sheltered annuities, dues to professional organizations, credit union, and dependent coverage for medical benefits.

Updated: 12/13/05

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4525

Compensation

Payment of Salary

All certificated employees who are employed in certificated positions will be paid in equal amounts paid over the twelve months of the school year.

All certificated employees who are employed in certificated positions will be paid their full salary earned prior to each payday.

Updated: 08/12/08

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4530

Compensation

Worker’s Compensation Benefits

Employees who suffer an injury caused by an accident or occupational disease arising out of and in the course of employment ("work-related injury") will receive benefits paid by the District according to the Workers' Compensation Law of the State of Missouri ("the Law"). Employees driving District owned or subsidized vehicles are not covered by this policy when driving such District owned vehicles to or from the home or to or from the work station. Absence from duty resulting from a work-related injury will be compensated according to the Law. Employees who receive workers' compensation benefits for lost time from work due to a work-related injury are not eligible for additional sick leave or vacation benefits under this policy, except with respect to those employees whose average weekly wage as defined by the Law ("average weekly wage") exceeds the actual wage necessary to obtain the maximum total disability rate as defined by the Law ("maximum wage").

In addition to the benefits for temporary total disability allowed under the Law, an employee whose average weekly wage at the time of the work-related injury exceeds the maximum wage at the time of the work-related injury will receive in wages the difference between the employee's average weekly wage and the maximum wage during the time period such employee is entitled to temporary total disability benefits under the Law. This additional benefit provided herein does not affect an employee's wage rate for purposes of permanent disability benefits.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4540

Compensation

Group Insurance Benefits

The Board of Education directs that medical group insurance coverage for staff members will be provided. The Superintendent/designee will solicit proposals and make recommendations to the Board of Education for approval of the insurance provider.

Employees shall be given information regarding COBRA benefits at the times of employment and separation.

The contract for medical insurance will be submitted for competitive bidding at least once every three (3) years.

For purposes of this policy competitive bidding means public notice of the request for medical insurance bids and the provision of information about district participants, claims history, and the details of the District’s existing health insurance policy and proposed modifications.

Development or Physical Disabilities

The District’s medical group insurance for staff members, after January 1, 2020, will provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders and for the diagnosis and treatment of developmental or physical disabilities to the extent that such diagnosis and treatment is not already covered by the District’s health plan.

Updated: 10/08/19

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4550

Compensation

Retirement Compensation

Retirement provisions for all eligible employees will be in accordance with the provisions of the Missouri Public School Retirement System (PSRS) and the Public Education Employees Retirement System (PEERS).

Full-time certificated staff employed after April 15, 1986, are subject to the Medicare portion of Social Security.

At the time of initial employment an employee shall be given his/her first COBRA notification. Second notification and continuation of benefits are contingent upon the employee notifying the District of a qualifying event.

Any plan of group health insurance shall include a provision allowing persons who retire, or who have retired, to become members of the plan if they are eligible to receive benefits under the Retirement System, by paying premiums at the same rate as other members of the group.

Employees who retire or who have retired and who are eligible for retirement benefits from either the PSRS or PEERS Plans are eligible to participate in District health benefit programs. In addition, the spouse and/or unmarried dependent children of any employee may also participate in District health benefit programs provided that these family members are receiving or are eligible to receive retirement benefits from either the PSRS or PEERS Systems. The retiree must apply for insurance coverage within the first year he/she is eligible to receive retirement benefits.

Reporting Requirements

Ineligibility for Retirement Benefits

If an employee or former employee is charged or convicted of any of the listed felonies, where such felony is committed in direct connection with or related to the employee’s duties with the District, the District will notify the employee’s relevant retirement plan, PSRS or PEERS. Such reporting is only required where such filing was committed after August 28, 2014 and where District administrators knew of such charge or conviction. The District will further provide to the respective retirement plan all information related to the charge or conviction that is in the District’s possession. Reportable offenses include:

Stealing involving money, property, or services valued at $5,000.00 or more;
Receiving stolen property involving money, property, or services valued at $5,000.00 or more;
Forgery;
Counterfeiting;
Bribery of a public servant;
Acceding to corruption 576.020

Conviction of one of the felonies set out in this policy may result in ineligibility for retirement benefits.

Reporting as Requested by PSRS

The District will cooperate with PSRS requests for information concerning the District’s use of PSRS retired persons providing substitute teaching or other positions that would normally require certification. This reporting/assistance request applies to such retired persons who provide such services through an independent contractor.

Updated: 12/12/17

Personnel Services Policy 4560

Compensation

Employee Post-Retirement Option

Retired Certified Employee Employed in PEERS Position

Any retired district employee in apposition which requires teacher certification may be employed in a position that does not normally require teacher certification (PEERS Qualified). However, such person may only earn up to 133% of the Social Security earnings limit for a person at full retirement age. Currently, the maximum salary is $29,685.60 less district paid premiums for health, dental, and vision insurance as well as payments for unused sick leave and any hiring incentives. Such person will not contribute to PEERS or PSRS retirement systems, nor shall they acquire membership in the PEERS retirement system. In such instance, the district will pay its contribution into the PEERS system.

If such person is paid in excess of $29,685.60 the employee will not be eligible to receive their retirement allowance for months paid in excess of the cap and will be required to pay into the PEERS retirement system for such period of time.

Post Retirement Employment

Any individual retired and currently receiving a PSRS retirement benefit may be employed by the district in any PSRS covered position as a part-time or temporary-substitute position not to exceed a total of five hundred and fifty (550) hours and may earn up to 50% of the annual salary for such position without a discontinuation of retirement payments. If the position filled does not have a salary schedule or if the position filled does not utilize a salary schedule, the retired employee may earn up to 50% of the annual compensation paid to the last person to hold the position or up to 50% of the limit set by the school board which has been submitted and approved by the board of trustees of PSRS. If the employee fills more than one position, the 50% limitation will be calculated based solely on the highest paid position.

Updated: 01/14/25

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4610

Performance Evaluation

Certificated Personnel

The Board of Education's ultimate goal in education is to provide the highest quality educational experience to all District students. The District's performance-based evaluation system contributes to that goal by promoting the professional improvement of each staff member and, when necessary, by providing data to remove an employee whose employment is detrimental to students.

Performance-based evaluation is a process endorsed by the Board of Education for performance improvement that includes identification of performance expectations, documentation of performance, discussion of performance, development of improvement plans, and making personnel decisions based upon performance. The evaluation process for every employee is an on-going process that takes place every day. Formal, summative evaluations will be prepared and reviewed on all District employees annually.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4620

Performance Evaluation

Support Staff

The development of a competent support staff is a major objective of the performance evaluation. All supervisors and/or principals will complete an annual written evaluation on all support staff under their supervision. The following areas will be evaluated:

Job knowledge
Quality of work
Quantity of work
Dependability
Cooperation
Attendance
Punctuality
Other areas as appropriate for the specific job

This evaluation will be used to improve job proficiency and to determine eligibility for reemployment.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4630

Performance Evaluation

Staff Conduct

The Board of Education requires all staff members to serve as positive role models for District students. District schools exist to provide quality, cognitive, and affective education for District students in a safe and appropriate setting. In achieving these objectives, staff are required to meet certain performance criteria including, but not limited to:

Review and comply with Board policies, regulations and procedures as well as related building rules and practices.
Properly prepare for student instruction.
Fully utilize instructional time for learning activities.
Maintain students under active supervision at all times.
Assess student performance in a regular and accurate manner.
Modify instructional goals to meet the needs of each student.
Comply with administrative directives.
Communicate with students in a professional and respectful manner.
Communicate with colleagues, parents and District citizens in a professional manner.
Properly operate and maintain district property.
Utilize district technology solely for school district business.
Maintain required records and submit requested reports in a timely manner.
Comply with all safety guidelines and directives.
Refrain from the use of profane and obscene language.
Dress in a professional manner.
Attend to all duties in a punctual manner.
Maintain student confidentiality pursuant to state and federal law.
Follow and implement student Individual Education Programs (IEP) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) or plans under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Maintain and account for District funds in the staff member’s possession and control.
Maintain professional relationships with students. With the exception of students who are immediate family with the staff member, this requirement also includes avoiding situations that could lead to allegations of inappropriate relationships with students, including, but not limited to:

Being present in any setting where students are provided or are consuming alcohol or illegal drugs.
Inviting students to be alone with a staff member at a staff member’s residence, on staff member’s private property, or in a staff member’s motor vehicle without the prior consent of the building principal.
Communicating with students, electronically or in person, about the student’s sexual activity or concerning the staff member’s sexual or romantic conduct.
Being present on District premises alone with a student in a room where the door is closed, the door is locked, or the lights are off, unless required temporarily due to emergency circumstances. Counselors and administrators are exempted from this prohibition in performance of professional duties.
Covering the interior window(s) of instructional space and offices with any material that blocks or obscures outside vision into the space, unless required temporarily due to emergency circumstances.
Communicating with students about sexual topics outside approved District curriculum, unless done as part of a District investigation into sexual abuse or harassment.
Utilizing students to attend to personal errands for the staff member.
Allowing students to drive a staff member’s vehicle.

Updated: 10/11/22

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4640

Performance Evaluation

Teaching Standards

District teaching standards include, but are not limited to:

Ensuring that students are actively participating and are successful in the learning process.

Teacher will monitor and manage student learning by specific assessment vehicles.

Student and teacher will be prepared and knowledgeable of the curricular content.

Teacher will maintain students' on task behavior.

Teacher will use professional communications and interactions with the school community.

Teacher will remain current on instructional knowledge.

Teacher will seek and explore changes in teaching behaviors that will enhance student learning.

Teacher will act responsibly in the overall mission of the school

Teacher creates learning experiences that make the subject matter meaningful.

Teacher demonstrates knowledge of the subject matter by implementing instruction pertinent to the subject matter.

Teacher provides learning opportunities that support the intellectual, social and personal development of all students.

Teacher cultivates the unique skills and talents of every student.

Teacher will use a variety of instructional activities of critical thinking, problem solving, and performance skills.

Teacher creates a positive learning environment that encourages active engagement in learning, positive social interactions and self-motivation.

Teacher models effective verbal, nonverbal and media communication techniques with students and parents to foster active inquiry, collaboration and supportive interaction in the classroom.

Teacher will use formal and informal strategies to assess learners' progress.

Teacher will actively seek out opportunities to grow professionally in order to improve learning for all students.

Teacher will maintain effective working relationships with students, parents, colleagues and community members.

Final standards for teaching in the District will be in place by June 30, 2010.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4645

Performance Evaluation

Classroom Postings and Displays

Posting or displaying materials within classrooms will only be permitted if the posting is related to the curriculum and subject matter taught in each specific classroom. In addition, postings of school extracurricular activities may also be permitted. Questions concerning whether a specific posting falls within the permitted categories should be referred to the building administrator.

Updated: 10/11/22

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4650

Communication with Students by Electronic Media

Employee personal communication with students, in all forms including oral and nonverbal shall be appropriate and consistent with Board policy. Personal communication shall be deemed to be inappropriate if such communication is sexual in nature; is sexually suggestive; suggests romantic activity with student or students; or is otherwise inconsistent with Board policy. Violation of this provision will result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

Communications between employees and students will be primarily direct, oral or written in nature. Employees may not communicate with district students via electronic media regardless of whether created or maintained by the employee or students. As restricted in this policy the phrase "electronic media" includes but is not limited to social networks, texting, and emails. This policy does not preclude electronic communication between teachers and their siblings and children who may be district students.

The District will provide official electronic media which may be utilized by employees for communication with students for dissemination of school related information (i.e. homework, practice schedules, supplemental instructional material.)

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4710

Separation

Resignation: Certificated Staff

Certificated employees who for any reason intend to retire or resign at the end of the current school year are encouraged to indicate their plans in writing to the Board as early as possible, but no later than June 1.

Resignations to become effective during the school year require a release by the Board and must be considered on an individual basis. Letters of resignation shall be submitted to the Superintendent/designee and the principal/supervisor. The letter should state reasons and an effective date for the resignation.

It is the practice of the administration to recommend to the Board those certificated employees who request to resign after June 1 and prior to July 31 be released from their contracts when there is good cause determined by the Board. After July 31, a certificated employee may petition the Superintendent to recommend a release from his/her contract for extremely unusual reasons. Should the Superintendent decline to recommend a release and the certificated employee leaves the District, the District reserves the right to pursue any and all legal options available to it.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4711

Separation

Resignation: Support Staff

Educational support personnel who wish to resign should address a letter of resignation to the Superintendent with copies to the personnel administrator and the principal/supervisor. The letter should state reasons and an effective date for the resignation.

Seven (7) days written notice is the minimum amount of time for resignation by an educational support staff member.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4720

Separation

Suspension or Termination: Support Staff

Support staff members shall be advised of areas of concern related to the continuation of their employment. As a general rule, employees shall not be terminated with cause, without having first been warned and steps toward progressive discipline having been taken. Employees may be suspended by the

Superintendent/designee.

Non-Contractual Employees

Individuals employed without a contract are subject to suspension and dismissal at any time. The Superintendent is authorized to suspend such employees with pay subject to Board review. In addition, the Superintendent may recommend the suspension without pay or termination of non-contractual employees to the Board of Education.

Contractual Employees

During the term of the employment contract, a support staff employee may be suspended with pay pending review of the Board. Prior to suspension or termination, such support staff employees will be informed of the reason for discipline and will be given an opportunity to respond to those reasons. Upon request of the employee, a meeting with the Board of Education will be scheduled to review the recommendation for suspension or dismissal. Contractual employees, who are not offered a new contract, are not entitled to meet with the Board of Education. However, in such situations, the employee may review the nonrenewal with the Superintendent/designee.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4730

Separation

Nonrenewal/Termination: Probationary Teacher

Pursuant to section 168.126.2, RSMo. (Supp. 1992), the Board of Education may choose to non-renew a probationary teacher's contract for the coming school year or may choose to terminate a probationary teacher's employment during the term of a contract in accordance with procedures outlined in Regulation 4730.

The Board of Education may terminate a probationary teacher's contract during the term of a contract for statutory causes as follows:

Physical or mental condition that renders the teacher unfit to instruct or associate with children.
Immoral conduct.
Willful or persistent violation of, or failure to obey, the school laws of the state or the published regulations of the School District.
Excessive or unreasonable absence from the performance of duties.
Conviction of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude.

6. Incompetence, inefficiency, or insubordination.

Prior to mid-contract termination of a probationary teacher for causes 1-6, the teacher will be provided with written charges and will be provided with an opportunity for a due process hearing before the Board of Education as set forth in Regulation 4730. Prior to the mid-year termination for cause #6, the teacher will also be provided with a notice of deficiencies and probationary period as set forth in Regulation 4730.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4731

Separation

Termination of Contract: Permanent Teacher

Pursuant to sections 168.114 and 168.124, RSMo. 1986, the Board of Education may terminate a permanent teacher's indefinite contract for one or more of the following causes:

Physical or mental condition that renders the teacher unfit to instruct or associate with children.
Immoral conduct.
Incompetency, inefficiency, or insubordination.
Willful or persistent violation of, or failure to obey, the school laws of the state or the published regulations of the School District.
Excessive or unreasonable absence from the performance of duties.
Conviction of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude.

The indefinite contract of a permanent teacher may be terminated for the foregoing reasons only in accordance with the procedures prescribed by sections 168.116, 168.118, and 168.120, RSMo. 1986.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4732

Separation

Termination of Employment: Administrators

The terms and conditions of the Superintendent's employment are governed by the employment contract between the Board of Education and the Superintendent. Provision for employment and termination of the Superintendent are provided for in Policy 1720. The employment of all other certificated teachers who are employed as administrators and who are not eligible for permanent status as a teacher are provided for in this policy.

Such district administrators are not eligible for permanent status in their administrative position. However, as provided by law, administrators may be entitled to permanent status as a teacher should their administrative employment be voluntarily or involuntarily terminated. All such administrators may be assigned to other administrative positions or teaching positions as provided in the regulations enacted under this policy.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4740

Separation

Reduction in Force: Certificated Staff

If it becomes necessary to reduce the number of teachers due to a decrease in enrollment, District reorganization or the financial condition of the District, the Board will act to retain the most qualified teachers while following all applicable statutory guidelines.

The Board of Education may place a permanent teacher upon un-requested leave of absence without pay when the Board determines that such action is necessary because of a decrease in pupil enrollment, School District reorganization or the financial condition of the School District. In placing such a teacher on leave, the Board will be governed by the provisions of the Teacher Tenure Law, and District policies and regulations.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4741

Separation

Reduction in Force: Support Staff

The Board of Education is authorized to reduce the number of support staff when in the Board's sole discretion factors including, but not limited to, decreases in student enrollment, District reorganization or financial reasons necessitate such reduction. In making such staff reductions, the Board will seek to retain those staff members best able to serve the needs of District's students.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4750

Separation

Administrative Leave

The Superintendent is authorized to place individual employees on paid leave of absence whenever the Superintendent determines that such leave is necessary due to the employee’s misconduct or to investigate potential employee misconduct. Paid leave of absences will not affect an employee’s sick leave or vacation leave.

Notification

Employee – The Superintendent will notify employees placed on a leave of absence, under this policy, of the general reasons for placement on leave. This notification will occur within seven (7) days of placement on such leave and will be communicated in writing. Statements of general reasons are confidential and are not open records under Chapter 610.

Board of Education - The Superintendent will notify the Board of Education within thirty (30) days of the reason(s) for placement of an employee on a paid leave of absence. Provided the employee remains on leave, the Superintendent will update the Board of Education, at each subsequent regular Board meeting, of the status of the employee’s leave of absence. The updates to the Board will continue during the pendency of each such leave of absence.

Hearing

A Board of Education hearing will be conducted within sixty (60) days of an employee’s placement on a leave of absence. Following the hearing, the Board will determine whether the leave will be continued. For good cause shown by the Superintendent, the hearing may be continued for a period of time not to exceed 180 days from the date the employee was placed on a leave of absence. Leave of absence hearings will be conducted in closed meetings.

At such hearing, the employee will be permitted to be represented by an attorney and will be permitted to offer evidence. A record will be made of the hearing. If employee is removed from administrative leave within thirty (30) days of being placed on leave, then no hearing is required.

Exceptions

The provisions of Policy 4750 will not be applicable where:

The employee is a probationary teacher;
The Superintendent has referred the employee to a law enforcement agency or to another state or federal agency due to employee’s misconduct; or
A law enforcement agency or other state or federal agency has begun an investigation of the employee’s misconduct related to the general reasons for the employee’s placement on leave under this policy.

Updated: 1/10/17

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4820

Staff Welfare

Employees with Communicable Diseases

An employee may be excluded from work if the employee (1) has, or has been exposed to, an acute (short duration) or chronic (long duration) contagious or infectious disease, and (2) is likely to transmit the contagious or infectious disease, unless the Board of Education or its designee has determined, based upon medical evidence, that the employee:

No longer has the disease.
Is not in the contagious or infectious stage of an acute disease.
Has a chronic infectious disease that poses little risk of transmission in the school environment with reasonable precautions.

School officials may require an employee suspected of having a contagious or infectious disease to be examined by a physician and may exclude the employee from work, in accordance with the procedures authorized by this policy, so long as there is a substantial risk of transmission of the disease in the school environment.

Employees with acute or chronic contagious or infectious diseases have a right to privacy and confidentiality. Only staff members who have a medical reason to know the identity and condition of such employees will be informed. Willful or negligent disclosure of confidential information about an employee's medical condition by staff members will be cause for disciplinary action.

The District will implement reporting and disease outbreak control measures in accordance with the provisions of Missouri Department of Health publication PACH-16, "Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases: A Guide for School Administrators, Nurses, Teachers and Day Care Operators," a copy of which shall be on file in the office of the Supervisor of Health Services and in the office of each school nurse.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4830

Staff Welfare

Board/Staff Communications

While the primary line of communication between the staff and the Board of Education remains through the Superintendent, the Board expresses a desire to maintain open communication with the certificated and support staff. Open communication between Board and staff facilitates continuing improvement of education and the proper disposition of personnel matters that may arise.

Personnel Services Policy 4831

Staff Welfare

Collective Bargaining

The Board of Education recognizes the right of employees to present proposals to the Superintendent/designee concerning compensation and other conditions of employment. If agreement is reached on any proposal, the proposal will be reduced in writing and submitted to the Board of Education. The Board of Education maintains the right to accept, modify, or reject any or all such proposals.

Updated: 11/12/24

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4840

Staff Welfare

Conflict of Interest

District employees are prohibited from engaging in any activity that would conflict, or raise a reasonable question of conflict, with their responsibilities in the District.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4850

Staff Welfare

Staff Dispute Resolution

The Board of Education recognizes that in any workplace misunderstandings and disputes arise. If left unresolved, these disputes could undermine staff morale and can interfere with the educational mission of the District. The Board has adopted a formal process for dispute resolution that encourages specified employees to resolve concerns quickly and at the most immediate administrative level. This policy does not limit the right of any employee to file grievances under Policy and Regulation 4810 - Sexual Harassment, or Policy and Regulation 1310 - Civil Rights, Title IX, Section 504.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4860

Staff Welfare

Personnel Records

Personnel files on all employees will be maintained in the District's administrative offices. It is the intent of the Board of Education to maintain complete and current personnel files, including all information necessary to comply with the Fair Labor Standards Act, for all District employees.

The District will maintain the following information in personnel files: applications, certification documents, performance evaluations, current transcripts, employment contracts and performance related documents. Medical records, including health insurance records, will be maintained separately. Files containing immigration records will be kept separate from personnel files.

The personnel file(s) of an individual employee will be considered confidential to the extent allowed by law. Access to personnel files will be on a strict need-to-know basis by appropriate District administrators, legal counsel, or state agencies with authority.

Upon request to and in the presence of the appropriate administrative official, any employee will have the right during regular working hours to inspect his/her own personnel file, with the exception of the ratings, reports and records obtained prior to the employment of the individual, including confidential placement papers.

Information of a critical nature will not be entered or filed in the employee's personnel folder until the employee is given notice, as well as an opportunity to review the information and comment thereon. The employee will have the right to append a reply to the statement, which will also be included in the folder.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4865

Staff Welfare

Whistleblower Protection

The District is committed to provision of a quality education in a transparent and supportive environment. Employees who engage in certain discussions of District operations; disclosure of alleged prohibited activities or testimony before a court, administrative, or legislative body will not be subject to disciplinary action as provided in this Policy 4865. The protection of this policy extends to dismissal, demotion, transfer, reassignment, suspension, reprimand, warrant of such disciplinary action, withholding of work irrespective of whether such action affects the employees' compensation.

The following categories of employment activity are protected under this policy.

Discussion of District Operations

Employees are protected in discussing the operations of the District with any member of the legislature, state auditor, attorney general, a prosecuting or circuit attorney, a law enforcement agency, news media, the public or any state official or body charged with investigating any alleged misconduct described in this policy. Such protection will not restrict or preclude the administration from disciplining an employee who knew the information discussed was false; the information was closed or confidential under law, or when the discussions relate to the employee's own violations, mismanagement, a gross waste of funds, abuse of authority, or endangerment of public health or safety.

Disclosure of Prohibited Activity

Employees are protected in making disclosures of any prohibited activity under investigation or any related activity, or for the disclosure of information which the employee reasonably believes demonstrates:

Violation of any law, rule or regulation.
Mismanagement, a gross waste of funds or abuse of authority, violation of policy, waste of

public resources, attention of technical findings, or communication of scientific opinion, breaches of professional ethical census, or a substantial and specific danger to public health or safety, if the disclosure is not specifically prohibited by law.

Similarly, no employee will be required to give notice to a supervisor prior to disclosing any activity set out in this subsection.

Employees are protected in their testimony before a court, administrative body, or legislative body regarding an alleged prohibited activity or disclosure of related information.

Limitations on Protected Activity

The employee protections set out in this policy will not prohibit:

A supervisor from requiring employees to inform the supervisor concerning legislative requests for information; the substance of testimony made or the substance of testimony to be made to legislators on behalf of the District.
A supervisor may preclude an employee from leaving their assigned work area during normal work hours or without complying with the applicable rules, regulations and policies. However, this limitation will not apply when an employee is requested by a legislator/legislative committee to appear before such legislative committees.
A supervisor from disciplining an employee who represents his/her personal opinions as the opinion of the District.
A supervisor from disciplining an employee who discloses or discusses information the employee knew was false; the information is closed or is confidential under the provisions of the open meetings law or any other law; or the disclosure relates to the employee's own violations, mismanagement, a gross waste of funds, abuse of authority or the endangerment of public health or safety.

Referral to the State Auditor

Where an employee alleges that they were disciplined for disclosure or discussion of information related to the receipt or expenditures of public funds, the employee may request the state auditor to investigate the alleged misconduct and whether unlawful disciplinary action was taken as provided in this policy.

Policy Posting

The District will post a summary of this policy in locations in all District facilities where it would reasonably be expected to come to attention of all District employees. In addition, this policy will be posted on the District’s website.

§ 105.055 RSMo - Form 4560

Updated: 10/09/18

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4866

Staff Welfare

Pregnancy, Childbirth Anti-Discrimination

The District is committed to eliminating discrimination and to promoting women’s health and economic security for employees or applicants whose ability to perform the functions of their job are limited by pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition. In order to implement this Policy, the Board of Education will not permit the following:

Failure to make reasonable accommodations of the known limitation of a qualified employee or applicant related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical condition, unless such accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of a District school or of the District.
Require a qualified employee or applicant, under this Policy, to accept an accommodation other than a reasonable accommodation arrived at through the interactive process between the employee or applicant and her supervisor.
Deny employment opportunities to a qualified employee or applicant if the denial is based upon the need to make reasonable accommodations to such employee or applicant.
Require a qualified employee or applicant to take a leave of absence, paid or unpaid, if another reasonable accommodation can be provided.
Take adverse action against a qualified employee/applicant’s terms, conditions, or privileges of employment.
Retaliation against a qualified employee or applicant for exercising their rights.

A qualified employee means an employee or applicant whose ability to perform the job because of pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition is adversely affected but who can perform the essential functions of the employment position with or without reasonable accommodation. However, a qualified employee or applicant remains qualified even if:

The inability to perform the job is for a temporary period.
The essential function could be performed in the near future.
The inability to perform the essential function can be reasonably accommodated.

A reasonable accommodation is any change in the way in which the job is performed by the employee/applicant which allows them to perform the essential functions of their job. The need for reasonable accommodation under this Policy is considered to have been communicated to the District, if the qualified employee/applicant or their representative so advises the District through one of its supervising employees. The District will arrive at a reasonable accommodation through a mutual discussion of job modifications, known as “the interactive process between the employee/applicant and their supervisor.” Use of the required interactive process may mean, but not necessarily mean, that the employee/applicant receives their preferred accommodation.

Updated: 10/10/23

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4867

Staff Welfare

Lactation Accommodation

Prior to July 1, 2022, the District will provide facilities to accommodate lactating employees and students in each school building within the District. These facilities will permit students and employees to express breast milk, breastfeed a child, and to address other needs relating to breastfeeding.

Implementation of this policy will provide a minimum of three opportunities during the school day, at intervals agreed upon by the building principal, and the individual to accommodate the affected individual’s needs to express breast milk or breastfeed a child. Affected individuals may utilize the facilities for a period of at least one year following birth of the employee’s or student’s child. The District may permit this accommodation for longer than the one-year period.

The space in each school building for implementation of this policy will be in the form of a room, other than a restroom for the exclusive use of women to express breastmilk or breastfeed a child. This room will be in close proximity to a sink with running water and a refrigerator for breastmilk storage and will have at a minimum the following features:

Ventilation and a door that may be locked for privacy.
A Work surface and a chair; and
Conveniently placed electrical outlets.

Time spent by a non-exempt lactating employee exercising their rights under this Policy is considered work time for purposes of minimum wage and overtime pay.

Updated: 10/10/23

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4870

Staff Welfare

Drug Free Workplace

The unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol on school premises or as a part of school activities is strictly prohibited.

Employees under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances while on duty are a serious risk to themselves, to students and to other employees. Employees who display physical manifestations of drug or alcohol use while on duty, may be subject to drug testing. Any employee who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination and referral for prosecution. Employees may also be required to satisfactorily participate in rehabilitation programs.

As a condition of employment, all employees must abide by the terms of this policy. Employees who are convicted of a drug offense which occurred on school premises or while on duty must notify the Superintendent of their conviction. Notification must be made by the employee to the Superintendent within five (5) days of the conviction. Within ten (10) days, the Superintendent will provide notice of such violation to the Impact Aid Program, United States Department of Education, or other appropriate government agency.

The District will institute a drug-free awareness program to inform employees of:

The dangers of drug and alcohol abuse in the workplace.
This policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace.
Available counseling and rehabilitation.
The penalties that may be imposed upon employees for drug abuse violations

occurring in the workplace.

On the basis of medical certification, employees with the illness of chemical dependency shall qualify for the employee benefits and group insurance coverages that are provided for under group health and medical insurance policies. The confidential nature of the medical records of employees with chemical dependency shall be preserved in the same manner as for all other medical records.

The District's responsibility for chemical dependency is limited to its effects on the employee's job performance. If the employee violates this policy, refuses to accept diagnosis and treatment, or fails to respond to treatment, and performance is adversely affected, the employee will be subject to employment action in proportion to the performance problem. Implementation of this policy will not require or result in any special regulations, privileges or exemptions from the standard administrative practice applicable to job performance requirements.

Upon the request of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education or an agency of the United States, the District shall certify that it has adopted and implemented the drug prevention program described in this policy, in the form required by such agency. The District shall conduct a biennial review of this policy to determine its effectiveness, implement necessary changes, and to ensure that the disciplinary sanctions are consistently enforced.

This policy shall be distributed in writing to all present and future employees.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4871

Staff Welfare

Driver Drug Testing

The District recognizes that it shares the responsibility to prevent accidents and injuries resulting from the misuse of alcohol or the use of controlled substances by its employees who operate commercial motor vehicles. The District complies with the provisions of the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991, which mandates that the District test its drivers who are required to hold commercial drivers licenses under specified conditions. The District will regularly evaluate its policies and procedures to ensure that it remains in compliance with federal regulations.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4872

Staff Welfare

Alcohol and Illicit Drugs

The District prohibits all employees from the possession, distribution, or presence under the influence of alcohol and non-prescribed controlled substances while on school premises. This prohibition is exemplified by Policy 4870 Drug-Free Workplace and Policy/Regulation 4871 Driver Drug Testing. Violation of this policy as well as Policies 4870 and 4871 will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination. In addition, such violation may result in substantially reduced or forfeiture of workers compensation benefits where the use of substances prohibited by this policy was in conjunction with or related to a work place injury.

Post Accident Drug / Alcohol Testing

Employees under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances while on duty are a serious risk to themselves, to students, to other employees, and to District property. Where an employee holding a safety sensitive position is involved in an accident producing injury, the District will require the employee to submit to post injury alcohol/drug testing.

Post accident testing will be utilized after any accident

involving the loss of life;
resulting from a violation of Board Policy or Regulations, or municipal, state, or federal law;
which results in an injury to a person who receives medical treatment;
resulting in disabling damage to any motor vehicle or piece of District equipment;
resulting from a violation of a safety regulation or safety directive.

Refusal to submit to post injury testing will result in disciplinary action up to, and including termination, and may result in forfeiture of Workers Compensation benefits for injuries related to the request for testing.

Employees holding a non-safety sensitive position will be subject to post accident drug testing where a District administrator has sufficient cause to suspect the employee's use of alcohol or non-prescribed controlled substance producing accident, in conjunction with or related to a work place testing. Such post accident testing will be utilized in the instance of the occurrence of any of the five instances set forth in this policy.

Safety Sensitive Positions:

The following list of positions are hereby classified as "safety sensitive" due to the serious risk of harm that can result from performing said job duties while impaired by drugs or alcohol; therefore, employees occupying such positions are subject to drug testing in accordance with published Board Policies and Regulations:

Food service employees.
Transportation employees.
Custodial employees.
Maintenance employees (HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing).
Any district employee whose job duties involve the performance of supervising children, including, but not limited to teachers, teachers' aides, lunchroom/playground monitors, etc.

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4873

Staff Welfare

Staff Cell Phone Usage

The use of cell phones, iPads and similar personal electronic devices during work time presents a significant safety risk, as well as, adversely impacts work time. For safety and educational reasons, the instructional staff and support staff, except as provided in this policy for transportation employees, are not permitted to use such personal electronic devices during work time. Exceptions will be made for bonafide school related emergencies.

Bus drivers and other employees driving district vehicles and employees driving while on District business are prohibited from using cell phones *The exception is while using a hands-free device., iPads, and related electronic devices while driving. If an emergency occurs, the vehicle should be parked and remain parked in a safe location during the use of the electronic device. Bus drivers and employees driving District vehicles should log those work time emergency calls with date, time, call duration and vehicle location with their supervisor as soon as is practicable.

Updated: 09/11/12

PERSONNEL SERVICES Policy 4880

Staff Welfare

Use of District Property

Employees may be provided access to and use of District property including, but not limited to, desks, file cabinets, closets, storage areas and computers for classroom use. These items remain the property of the District and are subject to inspection by District administrators.

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Policies 4000

4000 Index - Personnel Services

Policy 4110 - Equal Opportunity Employment

Policy 4120 - Employment Procedures

Policy 4121 - Notice of Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

Policy 4125 - Notice of Arrest, Abuse Complaint, Traffic Citation

Policy 4130 - Certified Staff Contracts

Policy 4131 - Extra Duty and Extended Contracts

Policy 4140 - Certificated Personnel Reemployment

Policy 4150 - Substitute Teacher Employment

Policy 4210 - Transfer Request

Policy 4220 - Certificated Staff Duties, Schedules, and Working Hours

Policy 4221 - Support Staff Duties, Schedules, and Working Hours

Policy 4310 - General Attendance

Policy 4320 - Personnel Leave

Policy 4321 - Family and Medical Leave

Policy 4322 - Domestic/Sexual Violence Victim Leave

Policy 4330 - Holidays and Vacation

Policy 4340 - Accumulated Sick Leave

Policy 4400 - Professional Activities, Training and Professional Growth

Policy 4410 - General Professional Development

Policy 4411 - Professional Development Committee

Policy 4420 - Conferences and Travel

Policy 4430 - District Committees

Policy 4440 - Mentoring

Policy 4505 - Salary Schedules

Policy 4506 - Minimum Teachers Salary

Policy 4510 - Benefits

Policy 4515 - Career Ladder

Policy 4520 - Salary Deductions

Policy 4525 - Payment of Salary

Policy 4530 - Worker's Compensation Benefits