901 Policy: Community Education

I.    Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to convey to employees and to the general public the important role of community education within the school district.

II.    General Statement of Policy

The school board affirms a strong commitment to the community education program.  The school board welcomes, and strongly encourages use of school buildings and activity areas by the community when not used for regularly scheduled elementary and secondary programs.  The school administration should strive to accomplish the following objectives:

A.    Maximum use should be made of public school facilities within the school district service area.

B.    Educational needs and interest of area residents should be determined periodically.

C.    Community resources and expertise of residents should be utilized to develop a vibrant, well-rounded community education program.

D.    Area residents should be encouraged to actively participate in program opportunities.

III.    Community Education Program Advisory Council

A.    The council shall assist in promoting the goals and objectives of the program.

B.    The Community Education Program Advisory Council (CEPAC) will consist of representatives appointed by each school or community organization and will be chosen based on their interest in community education and their willingness to be an active participant of CEPAC. Membership shall be composed of up to four Community Education program representatives, members at large to include but not limited to the District 279 Board of Education, faith community, service organizations, civic organizations, parks and recreation, school principals, senior citizens, youth and/or other interested citizens.

C.    Bylaws of the community education advisory council shall provide the framework for the organization including criteria pertaining to membership, officers’ duties, frequency and structure of meetings and such other matters as deemed necessary and appropriate.

D.    The council will adopt a policy to reduce and eliminate program duplication within the school district.

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Adopted/Revised
Adopted: 1/8/13

Legal References    
Minn. Stat. § 123B.51 (Schoolhouses and Sites; Access for Non-curricular Purposes)
Minn. Stat. § 124D.19, Subd. 1 (Community Education Programs; Advisory Council)
Minn. Stat. § 124D.20, Subd. 1 (Community Education Revenue)

Cross References  
Policy 902 - Use of School District Facilities and Equipment