G275 – ANIMALS ON SCHOOL CORPORATION PROPERTY

Definitions

A “companion animal” is an animal that provides solely emotional support, well-being, comfort, therapy, or companionship and does not meet the definition of service animal. Companion animals and emotional support animals are not permitted in Corporation facilities or property.

An “individual with a disability” is a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a person who has a history or record of such an impairment, or a person who is perceived by others as having such an impairment.

A “service animal” is a dog, or in special circumstances a miniature horse, individually trained to take specific action or perform tasks to assist an individual with a disability. The tasks performed by the service animal must be directly related to the person’s disability. A “service animal” does not include any species of animal, whether wild or domestic, other than a dog or miniature horse.

A “tether” is a harness, leash, or other tether.

This policy shall apply to all animals on School Corporation property with the exception of dogs employed by police departments or other law enforcement entities, as matters involving police dogs are governed by law enforcement policies and procedures.

Humane Treatment of Animals

Animals on school premises shall be treated humanely and shall not be subjected to cruel treatment or housed in unsanitary or unnecessarily restrictive conditions. For purposes of this provision, “humanely” includes the provision of adequate food and fresh water, and the term “animal” means a sentient creature capable of assessing and responding to its environment.

The Board authorizes the Superintendent or his or her designee to develop administrative guidelines addressing the use of service animals.

IC 16-32-3 28 CFR 35

29 CFR 1630

Franklin Township Community School Corporation

Adopted 6/23/14

Revised 1/14/19

Revised 1/13/2020

Revised 9/28/2020