605.1 Instructional Materials Selection

The Board of Directors recognizes that the selection of instructional materials is a vital component of the school district’s curriculum. For the purpose of this policy the term “instructional materials” includes printed and audiovisual materials (not equipment), whether considered classroom materials or media center materials; the term “text materials” includes textbooks and other print and non-printed material for universal instruction or programmatic use (such as Title I or ELL instruction).

The board has sole discretion to approve instructional materials for the school district.  The board delegates this authority to licensed employees to determine which instructional materials will be utilized and purchased by the school district to licensed employees.  The licensed employees will work closely together to ensure vertical and horizontal articulation of textbooks in the education program.

The Board may appoint an ad hoc committee to assist the licensed employees in selecting instructional materials. The committee may be composed of any of the following groups of stakeholders: school district employees, parents, students, community members, or representatives of community groups.

In reviewing current instructional material for continued use and in selecting additional instructional materials, the certified employees shall consider the current and future needs of the school district as well as the changes and the trends in education and society. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent to report to the Board the action taken by the selection committee.

In making its recommendations to the superintendent, the licensed employees will select materials which:

•    support the educational philosophy, goals and objectives of the school district;
•    consider the needs, age, and maturity of students;
•    are within the school district’s budget;
•    foster respect and appreciation for cultural diversity and difference of opinion;
•    stimulate growth in factual knowledge and literary appreciation;
•   encourage students to become decision-makers, to exercise freedom of thought and to make independent judgment through  the examination and evaluation of relevant information, evidence and differing viewpoints;
•    portray the variety of careers, roles, and lifestyles open to persons to all people; and, 
•    increase an awareness of the rights, duties, and responsibilities of each member of a multicultural society.
•    Meet the guidelines for accessible instructional materials in Iowa.

In the case of classroom text materials, the Board shall make the final decision after a recommendation from the superintendent. The criteria stated above for selection of other instructional materials shall apply to the selection of classroom text materials. The superintendent may appoint certified employees to assist in the selection of classroom text materials.

Gifts of instructional materials must meet these criteria stated above for the selection of instructional materials. The gift must be received in compliance with board policy 802.3, “Gifts-Grants-Bequests.”

The superintendent will establish additional criteria to guide the selection of instructional materials through administrative regulation, ensuring alignment with educational goals and compliance with laws.