File: KHC - Distribution/Posting of Noncurricular Materials

NOTE: While Colorado school districts are not required by law to adopt a policy on this subject, CASB believes this sample contains the content/language that reflects "best practices." However, the district should consult with its own legal counsel to determine appropriate language that meets local circumstances and needs.

The purpose of this policy is to define the parameters applicable to the distribution or posting of noncurricular materials on district property in a manner that does not disrupt the district´s educational programs nor interfere with the district´s mission. Requests from the public to distribute or post noncurricular materials in the district´s schools or buildings or on district property may be permitted in accordance with this policy and accompanying regulation.

Noncurricular materials deemed "unacceptable" by the district shall not be approved for posting or distribution. The following shall be considered "unacceptable" material:

• Material that promotes or favorably portrays unlawful conduct or conduct that violates Board policy, including but not limited to the Board´s policies prohibiting unlawful discrimination, harassment and bullying.

• Material that is injurious to, or encourages conduct that threatens disruption of school operations or endangers the health or safety of staff and/or students.

• Material designed for commercial purposes-advertising a product or service for sale or rent-unless the material itself has educational value that makes the commercial message a secondary consideration.

• Material that is libelous, invades the rights of others or inhibits the functioning of the school or district, or advocates interference with the rights of any individual or with the normal operation of the school or district.

• Material which in any way promotes, favors or opposes the candidacy of any candidate for election, or the adoption of any bond issues proposal, or any public question submitted at any general, municipal or school election. The prohibition shall not apply on any election day or special election when the school is being used as a polling place.

• Material that is obscene, vulgar or patently offensive as defined by prevailing community standards throughout the district.

• Material that is inconsistent with or unrelated to the district´s mission and educational values.

This policy governs noncurricular material and is not intended and shall not be interpreted to prevent or limit distribution of materials by district staff that are intended to supplement and enrich district curriculum in accordance with Board policy. District staff who wish to distribute noncurricular materials shall comply with this policy and accompanying regulation.

The superintendent or designee shall present to any person or persons wishing to distribute or post noncurricular materials a copy of this policy and the accompanying regulation.

(Adoption date)

LEGAL REF.: C.R.S. 22-32-110 (1)(r) (Board´s authority to exclude objectionable materials)

CROSS REFS.: IMB, Teaching about Controversial Issues and Use of Controversial Materials

JICEA, School-Related Student Publications

JICEC*, Student Distribution of Noncurricular Materials

[Revised April 2015]