Section 281.36.19. Eligibility in situations of district organization change.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, in the event eligibility of one or more students is jeopardized or in question as a result of actions beyond their control due to pending reorganization of school districts approved by the voters under Iowa Code chapter 275; action of the district boards of directors under Iowa Code section 274.37; or the joint employment of personnel and sharing of facilities under Iowa Code section 280.15 and the result is a complete discontinuance of the high school grades, or discontinuance of the high school grades pursuant to Iowa Code section 282.7, first paragraph, the boards of directors of the school districts involved may, by written agreement, determine the eligibility of students for the time the district of residence does not provide an activity program governed by this chapter. When the respective boards have not provided by written agreement for the eligibility of students whose eligibility is jeopardized or questioned four weeks prior to the normal established time for beginning the activity, students or parents of students involved may request a determination of eligibility from the governing body of the organization involved. All parties directly interested shall be given an opportunity to present their views to the governing board.

A determination of eligibility by the governing board shall be based upon fairness and the best interests of the students.

In the event that one or more parties involved in the request for determination before the governing board are dissatisfied with the decision of the governing board, an appeal may be made by the dissatisfied party to the director of the department under the provisions of 281—36.17(280). A decision of the director in the matter shall be final.

The above provisions shall apply insofar as applicable to changes of organization entered into between two or more nonpublic schools.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code section 280.13.