The Independence School District is committed to protecting the privacy of our students, staff, and community members. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard your personal information when interacting with our website and services. 

1. Information we collect
We collect personal information from users who visit our website, complete forms, or communicate with us through email or other channels. The type of information we may collect include, but is not limited to:

• Personal Identification Information: Names, addresses, email addresses, phone numbers, and other contact details.
• Student Information: As part of our educational services, we may collect data on students' academic performance, health records, and other related information as permitted by law (FERPA).
• Usage Data: Information about your interaction with our website, including IP addresses, browser type, device information, pages visited, and other analytics to improve website functionality. 

2. How we use your information
The ISD uses the information we collect for the following purposes:

• To provide educational services and communicate with parents, students, and staff
• To improve the functionality and user experience of our website
• To respond to inquiries, requests, and feedback
• To comply with legal and regulatory requirements
• To share important updates, such as school closures, events, and district news

The Independence School District is committed to ensuring equal access to all individuals, including those with disabilities. We strive to provide a website that is accessible to everyone, regardless of technology or ability. This Accessibility Statement outlines our efforts to maintain an accessible digital environment for all users.

1. Accessibility Features
Our website is designed to be user-friendly and accessible, with the following features:

• Keyboard Navigation: Our website can be navigated using only a keyboard, allowing users with mobility impairments to access content without needing a mouse.
• Text Alternatives: We provide text alternatives (e.g., alt text) for images, videos, and other multimedia to ensure that all information is accessible to screen readers and other assistive technologies.
• Readable Fonts: We use clear, legible fonts and ensure that text has sufficient contrast against the background to assist users with visual impairments.
• Responsive Design: Our website is optimized for mobile devices and adjusts to various screen sizes, making it accessible to users on smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers.
• Closed Captioning: Videos on our website include closed captions for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

2. Ongoing Efforts
The district continually works to improve website accessibility and strives to meet or exceed the accessibility standards set by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and applicable laws, including Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

3. Reporting Accessibility Issues
If you encounter any issues with accessing content on our website or need assistance, we encourage you to reach out. We are committed to resolving any accessibility barriers and will make every effort to ensure a positive experience for all users.

Director of Public Relations
Name: Megan Murphy
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 10088
Email: megan_murphy@isdschools.org

Director of Technology
Name: Todd Theen
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 13001
Email: todd_theen@isdschools.org

4. Third-Party Accessibility
While the district makes every effort to ensure the accessibility of our website, some third-party content or services linked from our site may not fully comply with accessibility standards. We will strive to provide accessible alternatives for any third-party resources where possible.

The Independence School District is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable, and supportive educational environment for all students, staff, and community members. In accordance with federal and state laws, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or any other characteristic protected by law in our programs, activities, admissions, and employment.

1. Equal Educational Opportunities
The district ensures that all students, regardless of their background or identity, have equal access to high-quality education, extracurricular activities, and educational resources. We are dedicated to creating a learning environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.

2. Prohibition of Discrimination and Harassment
The Independence School District prohibits any form of discrimination or harassment based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or any other protected status. This includes, but is not limited to, discrimination or harassment based on:

• Race, Color, and National Origin: In accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the district ensures that no one is excluded from participation in, denied benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any district program or activity based on their race, color, or national origin.
• Sex/Gender: In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the district prohibits discrimination based on sex, including sexual harassment and gender-based violence, and ensures equal access to educational opportunities for all students.
• Disability: In accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the district prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and provides reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to educational programs and activities.
• Age: The district prohibits discrimination based on age under the Age Discrimination Act of 1975.

3. Reporting Discrimination and Harassment
If you believe you have experienced or witnessed discrimination or harassment within the district, we encourage you to report the incident as soon as possible. The district has designated personnel to handle such complaints and ensure a thorough, fair investigation.

• Title IX Coordinator (for complaints related to sex-based discrimination or harassment)
• District Compliance Officer (for complaints related to other types of discrimination)
  • Name: Ms. Yvonne Rito 
  • Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 10068
  • Email: yvonne_rito@isdschools.org
     
• Section 504 Coordinator (for complaints related to disability discrimination)
  • Name: Amy Chappell
  • Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 10028
  • Email: amy_chappell@isdschools.org

By accessing and using the Independence School District website, you agree to comply with and be bound by the following Terms of Use. These terms govern your use of the website and all content, materials, and services provided on or through the site. If you do not agree with these terms, you should not use the website.

1. Use of Website Content
The content on this website, including text, images, graphics, videos, logos, and other materials, is provided for informational and educational purposes only. All materials are the property of the Independence School District or its respective licensors and are protected by copyright, trademark, and other intellectual property laws.

You may not modify, distribute, reproduce, or use any of the materials on this website for commercial purposes without prior written consent from the Independence School District.

2. User Responsibilities
By using the website, you agree to:

• Comply with all applicable laws and regulations
• Not engage in any activity that could harm, disrupt, or interfere with the operation of the website or its services
• Not upload, post, or transmit any harmful, illegal, or offensive content
• Not engage in any fraudulent or deceptive activities

3. Privacy and Data Collection
The Independence School District is committed to protecting your privacy. The information we collect from website users is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy, which details how your personal data is collected, used, and protected. By using this site, you consent to the collection and use of your information as outlined in our Privacy Policy.

4. External Links
The Independence School District website may contain links to third-party websites. These links are provided for your convenience and do not imply endorsement or approval of the content on those sites. The district is not responsible for the privacy practices or the content of any third-party websites. Accessing these external links is at your own risk.

5. Disclaimers and Limitation of Liability
While the Independence School District strives to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information on this website, it makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the content. The district is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use of the website or any third-party links.

The website and its content are provided "as is" and "as available." The district does not warrant that the website will be free from errors, interruptions, or viruses.

6. Modifications to Terms of Use
The Independence School District reserves the right to update or modify these Terms of Use at any time without prior notice. Any changes will be reflected on this page with the updated revision date. We encourage users to review these terms periodically to stay informed about our policies.

7. Governing Law
These Terms of Use are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Missouri, and any disputes related to these terms will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Missouri.

If you have any questions or concerns about these Terms of Use, please contact:

Director of Public Relations
Name: Megan Murphy
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 10088
Email: megan_murphy@isdschools.org

Director of Technology
Name: Todd Theen
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 13001
Email: todd_theen@isdschools.org

The Independence School District is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of students’ educational records in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). FERPA is a federal law that gives parents and eligible students (18 years or older) the right to:

• Inspect and Review Educational Records: Parents or eligible students may request to review the student’s educational records held by the district.
• Request Corrections: Parents or eligible students may request amendments to the student’s educational records if they believe the information is inaccurate or misleading.
• Control Disclosure of Information: The district is required to obtain written consent before disclosing personally identifiable information from a student’s records, except in certain cases allowed by FERPA, such as for school officials with legitimate educational interests or in response to certain legal requests.
• File Complaints: Parents and eligible students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe the district has violated FERPA requirements.

For more information regarding FERPA and how the Independence School District complies with these rights, please contact:

Compliance Officer
Name: Yvonne Rito
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 10068
Email: yvonne_rito@isdschools.org

The Independence School District is dedicated to safeguarding the privacy and security of our students’ personal and sensitive data. We adhere to state-specific student privacy laws and federal regulations, including the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and FERPA, to ensure that all data is protected against unauthorized access, disclosure, or misuse.

Data Collection and Use
The district collects and uses personal data strictly for educational and operational purposes, such as academic achievement, student services, and communication with parents. We are committed to ensuring that any data collected is accurate, relevant, and used appropriately to support student success and district functions.

Data Security Measures
The Independence School District employs robust security measures, including encryption, secure access protocols, and regular monitoring, to protect all digital and physical records containing sensitive information. Only authorized personnel are granted access to confidential data, and we ensure that all staff members are trained on the importance of data security and confidentiality.

Third-Party Vendors
We take great care when sharing data with third-party vendors and service providers. Contracts with these vendors include clear agreements regarding the security and use of student data to ensure compliance with privacy regulations.

Data Retention and Disposal
The district follows best practices for the retention and secure disposal of personal data. Records are kept only for the period necessary to fulfill their educational or legal purpose and are securely destroyed when no longer needed.

We are committed to ensuring that all data is handled responsibly, securely, and in compliance with applicable laws. If you have any questions or concerns regarding our data protection practices, please contact:

Director of Public Relations
Name: Megan Murphy
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 10088
Email: megan_murphy@isdschools.org

Director of Technology
Name: Todd Theen
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 13001
Email: todd_theen@isdschools.org

The Independence School District is committed to providing an educational environment free from discrimination on the basis of sex. In compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, we do not discriminate on the basis of sex in our educational programs, activities, or employment practices.

Title IX prohibits discrimination in all aspects of education, including admissions, athletics, and the provision of services. It also requires the district to investigate any claims of sex-based harassment, including sexual harassment, and to take prompt and effective action to resolve such complaints.

Reporting Title IX Violations
If you believe you have been subjected to sex-based discrimination or harassment, or if you need assistance understanding your rights under Title IX, you are encouraged to contact our Title IX Coordinator, who is responsible for overseeing investigations and ensuring compliance with Title IX requirements.

Compliance Officer | Title IX Coordinator
Name: Yvonne Rito
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 10068
Email: yvonne_rito@isdschools.org

The ISD is committed to addressing all concerns related to sex-based discrimination, harassment, and retaliation and will work to resolve these issues promptly. We encourage all students, parents, and staff to reach out if they have concerns or need assistance.

The Independence School District is committed to providing a safe and equitable environment for all students, staff, and community members. We recognize the importance of addressing concerns in a fair, transparent, and timely manner. This section outlines the procedures for filing complaints and grievances related to district policies, services, or actions.

1. Professional Conversation
We encourage individuals to first attempt to resolve their concerns through a conversation with the relevant staff member or administrator. This may include speaking directly with teachers, principals, or department heads to address the issue at hand.

2. Formal Complaint Process
If the issue cannot be resolved informally, or if a formal complaint is preferred, the following steps should be followed:

• Step 1: Submit a Written Complaint
  Complaints must be submitted in writing to the appropriate school administrator or department head. The written complaint should include the following:
  • A description of the issue or grievance
  • Relevant dates, times, and individuals involved
  • The desired resolution or outcome
  • Any supporting documentation or evidence
• Step 2: Acknowledgment and Investigation
  Upon receipt of the written complaint, the district will acknowledge the complaint within the timeframe specified for the type of complaint filed. The designated staff member or administrator will conduct an impartial investigation and may meet with the complainant, witnesses, or other relevant parties to gather information.
• Step 3: Resolution and Response
  The district will provide a written response to the complainant outlining the findings of the investigation and any actions taken to resolve the issue. This response will be delivered within the time frame specified for the type of complaint filed.

3. Appeal Process
If the complainant is dissatisfied with the outcome of the initial resolution, they may appeal the decision to a higher district official, such as the Superintendent or the Board of Education. Appeals must be submitted in writing within the specified time frame from the date the resolution notice is received, based on the type of complaint filed.

4. Anti-Retaliation Policy
The Independence School District strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who files a complaint or grievance in good faith. Any acts of retaliation will be treated as a separate violation and subject to disciplinary action.

5. Contact Information
For assistance with filing a complaint or grievance, or if you have any questions about the process, please contact:

Compliance Officer | Title IX Coordinator
Name: Yvonne Rito 
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 10068
Email: yvonne_rito@isdschools.org

We encourage everyone to refer to these procedures when attempting to address a concern or file grievance. The ISD is committed to resolving issues in a fair and equitable manner and ensuring a positive and inclusive educational environment.

The Independence School District is committed to transparency and openness. As part of this commitment, the district provides access to public records in accordance with the Missouri Sunshine Law and other applicable regulations. The district encourages the public to request access to records, as outlined below.

What is a Public Record?
Public records include documents, files, and other records that are created, received, or maintained by the district in the course of its public business. These records may include board meeting minutes, contracts, financial documents, student records (with certain exceptions under FERPA), and other documents related to district operations.

How to Make a Public Records Request
To request access to public records, please submit a written request to the district’s Custodian of Records. Your request should include:

• A description of the records you are requesting (be as specific as possible)
• Your contact information (name, address, phone number, email address)
• Any preferred format for receiving the records (e.g., paper copies, electronic copies)

Requests can be submitted via email, mail, or in person.

Response Time and Fees
The district will respond to your request within the timeframe required by the Missouri Sunshine Law. There may be a fee associated with processing your request. Fees typically cover the cost of copying, mailing, and other administrative expenses. If applicable, you will be notified of the estimated cost prior to processing your request. If the requested records are available, they will be provided to you within a reasonable time frame.

Exemptions
Certain records may be exempt from disclosure under the law, including but not limited to:

• Personal student records protected by FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)
• Confidential personnel records
• Records related to ongoing investigations or litigation
• Records that would jeopardize public safety or security

If your request is denied in full or in part, the district will provide an explanation of the exemption(s) that apply.

If you have questions or need assistance with a public records request, please contact the district’s Custodian of Records:

Custodian of Records | Administrative Assistant to the Board of Education, Superintendent
Name: Cammie Smith
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 10008
Email: cammie_smith@isdschools.org

We value transparency and strive to provide timely and accurate access to public records. Your right to access public information is an essential part of our commitment to accountability.

The Independence School District prioritizes the health, safety, and well-being of our students, staff, and community members. This section provides important health and safety notices, including updates on protocols, policies, and resources available to ensure a safe learning environment.

1. Health and Safety Protocols
The district follows guidelines and recommendations from local, state, and federal health authorities to maintain a safe environment in all our schools. This includes the implementation of preventive measures for communicable diseases, as well as safety protocols for emergencies and school-related incidents.

2. Immunization Requirements
To protect the health of all students, the district adheres to Missouri state law requiring certain immunizations for students attending school. Parents and guardians are encouraged to ensure that their child’s vaccinations are up-to-date. Detailed information about required immunizations and the process for submitting immunization records is available on our health services page.

3. Mental Health Resources and Support
The district recognizes the importance of mental health and provides resources to support the emotional well-being of students. Counseling services, mental health support programs, and crisis intervention services are available to students and families. Please contact your school counselor, your school FSL (family school liaison), or Family Services for more information.

4. Emergency Procedures
The district has established comprehensive emergency procedures to address various safety concerns, including fire drills, lockdown drills, and natural disaster preparedness. These procedures are regularly reviewed and practiced to ensure that all students and staff are prepared in case of an emergency. Please contact Public Safety for more information.

5. School Health Services
Each school within the district has a dedicated health office staffed by a school nurse to address student health needs. The health services team works closely with families and staff to manage chronic health conditions, provide first aid, and ensure the health and safety of all students.

For more information about health and safety policies, or to report a health-related concern, please contact:

Director of Health Services
Name: Lori Halsey
Phone: (816) 521-5300 ext. 10123
Email: lori_halsey@isdschools.org

We are committed to maintaining a healthy and safe environment for our entire school community. Thank you for your cooperation in helping us achieve this goal.