Descriptor Code: KM
Classroom Observation
Individuals are welcome to observe the School District’s schools provided the Principal or designee approves the purpose of the visit. However, in accordance with State law it is unlawful for any person to disrupt or interfere in the operation of any school within the School District. Any person violating this provision will be prosecuted for a misdemeanor.
Parent participation in the educational process is encouraged. Generally, parents are invited to confer with teachers, counselors, and principals regarding concerns about a student’s progress and well-being.
On those occasional instances where parental observation in the classroom is deemed appropriate, the following guidelines will be strictly adhered to in order that the visit not interfere with the instructional process nor violate privacy rights of other students in the classroom.
1. Observer must be a parent or a legal guardian of the child in the class to be observed. A noncustodial parent must obtain the written permission of the primary custodial parent and provide a certified copy of the Final Judgement of Divorce, Parenting Plan, settlement agreement and /or Court Order.
2. A request for observation will be approved in advance by the Principal.
3. Scheduling will take place at least 24 hours prior to the visit and must be done with the consent of both Principal and teacher. The Principal or designee will notify the parent and ensure that a designee remains with the parent throughout the length of the observation.
4. If two-way mirrors or closed-circuit television is available, observation must be done via that method.
5. Maximum observation time will be one period or 45 minutes, whichever is more appropriate to the school’s schedule.
6. Observations will be limited to one per semester per child.
7. Under no circumstances is there to be any interaction between the observer and anyone in the classroom. Exception to this Policy must be granted by the Superintendent of Schools or a designee in response to the specific request.
ADOPTED: August 2, 2001 REVISED: July 16, 2020
