Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa Senate Bill SF344

Introduced
2/18/25  

Caption

A bill for an act requiring the boards of directors of school districts to allow certain community organizations reasonable access to school property.

Impact

The bill mandates that school districts define the terms and conditions for this access, which must ensure the protection of students and school property. Key stipulations include that community organizations must not interfere with instructional time during school hours and can only be provided access to after-school events if it can be reasonably accommodated. This structured access is designed to create a safe environment while allowing community organizations to engage with the school populace effectively.

Summary

Senate File 344 requires the boards of directors of school districts in Iowa to allow reasonable access to school property for certain community organizations. The primary intention of this legislation is to encourage community engagement by enabling these organizations to distribute instructional materials and promote participation in their activities. This shift in policy aims to foster a stronger connection between schools and local community efforts, enhancing educational and social opportunities for students and their families.

Contention

While proponents argue that SF344 will enhance community engagement and support for educational initiatives, there can be potential concerns regarding the extent to which these organizations can influence school environments. Critics may argue that increased access could lead to disruptions in school routines or expose students to diverse ideologies, particularly if the community organizations have varying missions or agendas. The bill thus prompts discussions about the balance between open community access and the operational integrity of educational institutions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA HF370

A bill for an act relating to entities supported in whole or in part by public moneys, including the sale of public bonds, the duties and responsibilities of the directors and officers of school boards, school districts, the department of education, the department of health and human services, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, community colleges, institutions under the control of the state board of regents, area education agencies, and election commissioners, and the membership and voting units of county and city conference boards. (Formerly HSB 118.)

IA HF437

A bill for an act requiring the boards of directors of school districts to appoint student liaisons to the boards.(See HF 658.)

IA HF5

A bill for an act relating to education, including requiring the boards of directors of school districts and the governing boards of charter schools to publish certain specified information, modifying provisions related to required social studies instruction, and providing civil penalties.

IA SF390

A bill for an act relating to entities supported in whole or in part by public moneys, including the sale of public bonds, the duties and responsibilities of the directors and officers of school boards, school districts, the department of education, the department of health and human services, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, community colleges, institutions under the control of the state board of regents, area education agencies, election commissioners and children's residential facilities, and the membership and voting units of county and city conference boards.(Formerly SSB 1111.)

IA SSB1111

A bill for an act relating to entities supported in whole or in part by public moneys, including the sale of public bonds, the duties and responsibilities of the directors and officers of school boards, school districts, the department of education, the department of health and human services, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, community colleges, institutions under the control of the state board of regents, area education agencies, election commissioners and children's residential facilities, and the membership and voting units of county and city conference boards.(See SF 390.)

IA HSB118

A bill for an act relating to entities supported in whole or in part by public moneys, including the sale of public bonds, the duties and responsibilities of the directors and officers of school boards, school districts, the department of education, the department of health and human services, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, community colleges, institutions under the control of the state board of regents, area education agencies, election commissioners and children's residential facilities, and the membership and voting units of county and city conference boards.(See HF 370.)

IA SSB3157

A bill for an act relating to education by establishing a right of first refusal for charter schools to purchase or lease school district property and modifying charter school and open enrollment funding, charter school board member requirements, and the school start date.(See SF 2368.)

IA HSB673

A bill for an act relating to education by establishing a right of first refusal for charter schools to purchase or lease school district property and modifying charter school and open enrollment funding, charter school board member requirements, and the school start date.(See HF 2543.)

IA SF2368

A bill for an act relating to education, including by modifying provisions related to the sale of real property by school districts, charter school and open enrollment funding, and the participation in school activities by students enrolled in charter schools. (Formerly SSB 3157.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

IA HF2543

A bill for an act relating to education by establishing a right of first refusal for charter schools to purchase or lease school district property and modifying charter school and open enrollment funding, and charter school board member requirements.(Formerly HSB 673.)

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