RIGHTS AND
RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS
Throughout these pages, “parents" includes
single paRents, legal guardian, or person having lawful control of the
student.
Parents have the responsibility to:
1. Make every effort to provide for the physical needs
of the child.
2. Teach the child to pay attention and obey the rules.
3. Strive to prepare the child emotionally and socially
to be receptive to learning and discipline.
4. Ensure their child's compliance with school attendance
requirements and promptly report and explain absences
and tardies to the school.
5. Encourage and lead the child to develop proper study
habits at home.
6. Participate in meaningful parent-teacher conferences
to discuss their child's school progress and welfare.
7. Attend parent training workshops for home reinforcement
of study skills and specific curriculum objectives.
8. Keep informed of school policies and academic requirements
of school programs.
9. Participate in school-related organizations.
10. Be sure their child is appropriately dressed at school and
school-related activities.
11. Discuss report cards and school assignments with their child.
12. Bring to the attention of school authorities any learning
problem or condition that may relate to their child's
education.
13. Maintain up-to-date home, work, and emergency telephone numbers
and other pertinent information at the
school.
14. Cooperate with school administration and teachers.
15. Right to review their child's teacher qualifications.
16. Be sure their child attends school tutoring when required
or as the need arises.
17. Submit a signed statement that they understand and consent
to the responsibilities outlined in this handbook.
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RIGHTS AND
RESPONSIBILITIES OF STUDENTS
All students are entitled to enjoy the basic
rights of citizenship recognized and protected by law for persons of their
age and maturity. All county schools foster a climate of mutual respect
for the rights of others. Each student is expected to respect the
rights and privileges of other students, teachers, and staff. Students
shall exercise their rights responsibly, in compliance with rules established
by the Blount County Board of Education. These rules of conduct are
established to achieve and maintain order in the school. Students
who violate county or school rules shall be subject to disciplinary measures
designed to correct the misconduct and to promote adherence by all students
to their responsibilities as citizens in the school community.
Student responsibilities for achieving a positive
learning environment at school or school-related activities shall include:
1. Attending classes, daily and on time, except when ill
or otherwise lawfully excused.
2. Being prepared for each class with appropriate materials
and assignments.
3. Exhibiting respect toward individuals and property.
4. Conducting themselves in a responsible matter.
5. Paying required fees and fines, unless they are waived.
6. Refraining from violations of the code of student conduct.
7. Observing all school rules, including rules of safety.
8. Cooperating with staff in investigation of disciplinary
cases and volunteering information when the student is
knowledgeable relating to a serious
offense.
9. Mastering the essential elements of the curriculum of
study prescribed by the Board of Education and the state.
10. Dress and appear in accordance with the schools standards
of propriety, safety, health, and grooming.
11. Be aware of all rules and regulations for student behavior
and conduct himself/herself in accordance with the
student code of conduct.
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STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Jurisdiction: The school has jurisdiction
over its students during the regular school day and while going to and
from school on county transportation. The school's jurisdiction includes
any activity, regardless of time or location, and any school-related misconduct,
regardless of time or location.
Requirements: This code of conduct,
along with the student's responsibilities already listed, clearly describes
the school's expectations of student conduct. The purpose of this
code is to help maintain the educational efficiency of the school and specifies
the consequences for violating this code.
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CARE OF SCHOOL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY
We try to instill in students pride in the
appearance of their school. Students must not mark school furniture, wall,
ceiling, floor, or equipment with pen, pencil, marker, or any other instrument.
Students must not tamper with fire alarms, fire extinguishers, plants,
trees, or any electrical system in the school. Anyone who willfully
destroys school property through vandalism, arson, or larceny, or who creates
a hazard to the safety of our students will be referred to the proper law
enforcement agency.
Textbooks: If textbooks are lost or damaged students will be
expected to pay full replacement cost.
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STUDENT DRESS CODE
Students are expected to dress and groom themselves as individuals
with a sense of responsibility. Each student is expected to keep
themselves neat and clean. It is expected that each students, while
exercising the right to dress and groom in an individual way will also
show a high degree of respect for decency and cleanliness. Dress
Code for Grades K-5 states:
(1) Shoes must be worn at all times.
(2) Shorts must be mid-thigh length (no "bike"
shorts, etc.). Acceptable shorts include Bermuda/walking shorts and
culottes, split skirts/shorts and cutoff shorts that are neat in appearance,
appropriate in length or are commercially sewn to look like cutoffs.
(3) The following is a list of items that
are not to be worn: caps and hats (inside the building); torn, cut-off,
or damaged clothing; halter-tops, strapless, spaghetti straps or backless
dresses/blouses; clothing that exposes the midriff; see-through clothing;
clothing that exhibits written, pictorial, or implied references to illegal
substances, drugs or alcohol, negative slogans, vulgarities, or causes
disruption of the educational process; wearing apparel that is sexually
suggestive or that features crude or vulgar lettering or printing and/or
pictures that depict drugs, tobacco, alcoholic beverages, racial/ethnic
slurs or gang affiliation; wallet chains or chains of any kind; oversize
apparel--including saggy pants worn low on the waist; overalls with unfastened
straps, and pants that are cut-off below the knee (and worn with knee socks);
belts which are extra-long with excess hanging loosely or belt buckles
earing initials that designate gangs. All tattoos and brands and
visible body piercing (excluding the ears) must be covered. Hairstyle,
coloring, or grooming must not distract from the school setting.
If a student cannot comply
with the dress code based on special conditions or religious beliefs, his
or her parents/guardian may write a letter explaining the situation to
the Director of Schools or his designee, with a copy to the principal.
Each case will be dealt with on an individual basis.
The school principal may
allow special dress on special occasions such as: field trips, field
days, theme days, school spirit days, etc. The principal may allow
special dress for specific classes or further restrict dress in certain
classes such as: gym, vocational classes (shop), science labs, etc. This
policy does not preclude individual schools from piloting alternative dress
codes or standards with permission from the Director of Schools and Board
of Education.
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DISCIPLINE CODE
Students in Blount County Schools are
expected at all times to adhere to the rules of conduct established by
the Blount County Board of Education and their individual schools.
Students are expected to show respect for others while at school or any
school sponsored event.
Interrogations:
Students may be questioned by teachers and principals regarding any matter
pertaining to the operation of a school and/or the enforcement of its rules.
Students may be questioned by school officials without parent permission.
If a crime is being investigated by the Blount County Sheriff’s Office,
the officer must attempt to notify and receive parent permission before
doing so. The principal or designee shall be present during the questioning
of the student.
Searches: Any principal
or designee having reasonable suspicion may search any student, place,
or thing on school property or during any organized school event held on
or off campus. Police officers may make a general search of students’
lockers, desks, or automobiles if public health or safety is involved.
Weapons and Dangerous Instruments:
Students
shall not possess, handle, transmit, use or attempt to use any dangerous
weapon on school grounds at any time, or in school vehicles and/or school
buses or off the school grounds at any school sponsored event. Weapons
may include but are not limited to: firearms, explosives, knives
of any kind, blackjacks, knuckles or any other instrument or substance
used in a manner with which to do harm to another person. Students guilty
of violating this policy will be expelled for a period of not less than
a year.
See-through back-packs:
If backpacks are used, only see-through back-packs are allowed.
Communication Devices:
Students are not allowed to carry cell phones or pagers at school or school
sponsored events.
Alcohol and Drug Use: Students
shall not possess, distribute or be under the influence of illegal drugs
(including marijuana) or alcohol in school buildings or on school grounds,
in school vehicles or buses, or at any school-sponsored activity at any
time,whether on or off school grounds. Students shall not market
or distribute any substance
which is represented to be or is substantially similar in color, shape,
size, or markings to a controlled substance in school buildings or on school
grounds. A student who unlawfully possesses or uses any narcotic,
any alcoholic beverage, stimulant, prescription drug or other controlled
substance (including marijuana) shall be subject to suspension for a period
of not less than one calendar year. The Director of Schools shall
have the authority to modify this suspension on a case-by-case basis.
Tobacco Use: Students
shall not use or possess tobacco or tobacco products on school property,
buses, or at school sponsored events. Violation of the tobacco policy may
result in a suspension and notification to the Blount County Sheriff’s
Department for court citation. |
DISCIPLINE
Parents and students should read and discuss
this publication. Please take note that specific guidelines are established
for follow-up of infractions. Minor problems are handled in a routine
manner by the classroom teacher through discussions with the student.
Repeated disruptive incidents will be handled by an office referral. In
most cases parents will be contacted regarding this. Your cooperation
and understanding is essential. The schools are established for the
benefit of all students. The educational purpose of the schools are
accomplished best in a climate of student behavior which is socially acceptable
and conducive to the learning and teaching process. Student behavior
which disrupts the process or which infringes upon the rights of other
individuals will not be tolerated.
The purpose of this code is to make
parents and students aware of the fact that students are expected to behave
themselves appropriately and that violations of the code might bring on
serious consequences.
Behavior Possible Consequences
Truancy or Unexcused absence
Suspension or failure in the subject/grade involved
Tardiness
The awarding of unexcused absences that can result in failure
Leaving school without permission
Suspension or expulsion
Lack of participation
Parent conference, Suspension
Damage of property (no vandalism)
Student must pay for the damage. Possible suspension
Vandalism
Suspension or expulsion. Principal must report to law enforcement
Assault and battery (endangering life, heatlh/safety)
Suspension or expulsion. Principal must report to law enforcement
Inappropriate dress and appearance
Student sent home to change. Suspension
Using or possessing tobacco at school
1st offense: 1 day suspension
2nd offense, 2 day suspension
3rd offense, 5 days
Using, possessing, selling, or transmitting any
One year expulsion. Hearing with Blount County Disciplinary
alcoholic beverage, intoxicants
of any kind
Committee. Principal report to law enforcement
drugs (or look-alike drugs,etc.), or drug
paraphernalia
Possession of a weapon
One year expulsion
Fighting or Threatening violence
Suspension; Referral to Blount Co. Disciplinary Committee
Repeated violation of school rules
Suspension, expulsion
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GENERAL SCHOOL RULES
1. Do not do anything which might hurt one:
a) physically (fighting, throwing objects,
etc.) or
b) mentally (profanity, teasing, name
calling, etc.)
2. Do not bring toys, radios, play items to school unless permission
from a teachers has been given to do so.
Jewelry, expensive items such as radios, CD
players, games, etc., should not be brought or worn to school.
3. Cheating is not permissible. Students giving or receiving
help automatically receive a "O" for the work.
4. Students are not permitted to sell private items at school.
5. Public displays of affection (PDA) between students are not
permissible.
Hall Rules
1. Walk quietly through the halls. Do not run or push.
2. Keep to the right of the hallway.
3. Keep halls neat and tidy. No feet or hands on walls.
4. No cutting line.
5. Follow directions when first given.
6. Students are not permitted in the halls during class periods
without a hall pass from an authorized staff member.
Bus Conduct
Students are under the supervision and control of the bus driver
while on his/her bus, and all reasonable directions given by him/her shall
be followed. A student may be denied the privilege of riding the
bus if the principal determines that his/her behavior is such as to cause
disruption on the bus, or if he/she disobeys state or local rules pertaining
to student transportation. Any student who gets off the bus at any
school or home must present the driver with a note of authorization from
the parent or the principal of the school the student attends.
Any student wishing to ride a bus other than his/her designated bus must
have parental and principal permission. Video cameras may be used
to monitor student behavior. Bus drivers may make special seating
arrangements when they feel it is necessary. Students shall remain
in seats at all possible times and windows may be opened with the driver’s
permission only. Students shall load and unload the bus in an orderly
manner and may only cross the road when signaled to do so by the driver.
Students are not permitted in the driver’s seat to talk to the driver unless
necessary, and shall remain behind the restraining line. Violation
of school rules such as: smoking, vulgarity, fighting, and willful damage
to the bus may be sufficient ground for suspending a student’s riding privileges.
Consequences
Suspension include: Attendance
related; immoral, disreputable conduct; violence, threatened violence;
fighting among students; willful damage to property; drinking alcoholic
beverages; possession, use of drugs; theft; extortion; gambling; possession,
use of tobacco; possession, use of weapons; immunization related; repeated
violation of board and/or school policies.
**Suspensions will be in-school or out-of-school based on federal,
state, and board policies.
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AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES
ACT
The Federal Americans with Disabilities
Act protects persons with a disability, those who associate with the disabled
and those who help or encourage others to exercise rights granted by the
act. Blount County School System wants to ensure that these rights
are protected, that everyone can participate in or benefit from the system's
programs, services, and activities offered. It is the right of each
person to ask for a reasonable accommodation if it has not been provided.
The ADA coordinator directs compliance efforts and serves as citizen liaison.
Despite the best efforts of the system, problems may arise so a grievance
procedure has been established to ensure that a complaint will be heard.
Those who have problems or ADA related questions may call 984-1212.
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ATHLETICS AND CHEERLEADING
To be eligible to participate in athletics
and cheerleading the student must be doing passing work and be regular
in attendance. All students going out for athletics and cheerleading
must have school insurance or a written statement from the parents giving
the school assurance that the student is adequately covered by family insurance.
This must be done before participation in the athletic program. All
students must have an examination by their family physician before participating
in athletic events. If a student is absent from school, s/he will
not be allowed to participate in the event that evening. Athletes
and cheerleaders are representatives of our school and should conduct themselves
in a manner that exhibits good sportsmanship.
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ATTENDANCE
The requirements for school attendance are
mandated as part of state and county laws. As a parent, your obligation
is to see that your child is in school every day. When a student
is absent, s/he should return to school with a note, dated and signed by
the parent, explaining the reason for the absence. If a note is not
received, the absence is unexcused. Five unexcused absences per nine
weeks will result in failure in any subject or grade, excluding days suspended
for disciplinary reasons. In addition, five unexcused absences will
result in the student being report to the Blount County Juvenile Truancy
Board.
Absences will be excused for:
1. The child's personal illness. Parent signature will
be accepted for fourteen days. After fourteen days, a doctor's statement
will be required.
2. Death in the immediate family (not to exceed three days).
3. Family illness requiring help (doctor statement required.)
4. Religious holidays.
5. Absences excluded by the principal
6. Approved school related activities
7. Circumstances which in the judgment of the principal create
situations over which the student hasno control.
DISMISSAL. No student will be permitted to leave the campus unless
a parent or guardian picks his/her up or gives permission for another adult
to pick him/her up. Any adult picking up a student must report to
the office to sign the student out. Permission notes are to be signed
by a parent or guardian of each child when a student leaves the school
to spend the night with another student. All students involved must have
a permission note.
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BULLYING/INTIMIDATION
Students shall be provided a safe
learning environment. It shall be a violation of Board policy for
any student to bully, intimidate or create a hostile educational environment
for another student. Bullying and intimidation are defined as either
physically harming a student or damaging his/her property, or knowingly
placing the student in reasonable fear of such, or creating a hostile educational
environment. This policy addresses conduct taking place on school
grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided transporation,
or at any official school bus stop immediately following deboarding.
Alleged victims shall report these
incidents immediately to a teacher, counselor or building administrator.
Any allegations shall be fully inviestigated by a complaint manager as
set forth in the Student Concerns and Complaints procedures. The
privacy and anonymity of all parties and witnesses to complaints will be
respected. However, because an individual's need for confidentiality
must be balanced with obligations to cooperate with investigations or legal
proceedings, to provide due process to the accused, to conduct a thorough
investigation or to take necessary ctions to resolve a complaint, the identify
of paprties and witnesses may be disclosed in appropriate circumstances
to individuals with a need to know.
A substantiated charge against an employee
shall result in disciplinary action up to an including termination.
A substantiated charge against a student may result in corrective or disciplinary
action up to and including suspension. There will be no retaliation
against any person who reports harassment or participates in an investigation.
However, any student or employee who refuses to cooperate or gives false
information during the course of any investigation may be subject to disciplinary
action. The willful filing of a false report will itself be considered
harassment and will be treated as such.
Any student disciplined for violation
of this policy may appeal the decision in accordance with disciplinary
policies and procedures.
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CAFE PROCEDURES
Our cafeteria strives to provide nutritious
meals and snacks for students. Soft drinks will not be allowed in
our school. Please do not send them with students, as they will not
be allowed to have drinks that are canned or bottled in their lunch.
Students will not be allowed to have charges in the cafe' that exceed $6.00.
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CHANGE OF ADDRESS/TELEPHONE
It is extremely important that every student
maintain an up-to-date address and working telephone number record at the
school office. Notify the school immediately if you have a change of address
or telephone number during the school year.
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CHECK CASHING
The school will take checks to pay for fees,
pictures, yearbooks, field trip expense, etc. However, there will
be a service charge on any check that is returned to the school for insufficient
funds.
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CLOSING SCHOOL
Should school be closed due to inclement weather,
the information will be reported to radio station WGAP. They will
report school closings on newscasts for student information. School closing
Hot Line: 984-1213, 984-1214, 984-1215, 984-1216.
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CRISIS DRILLS
You should learn the signal at your school for fire and other
disaster drills. During these drills follow the instructions of your
teacher or other adult and act quickly and quietly as you are directed
to safety.
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DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT
OF EMPLOYEES/STUDENTS
It is the policy of Blount County Schools
to maintain a learning environment that is free from harassment because
of an individual’s race, color, sex, national origin, or disability.
The School District prohibits any and all forms of harassment because of
race, color, sex, national origin, and disability.
It shall be a violation of District policy
for any student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel of this
District to harass a student through conduct of a sexual nature, or regarding
race, color, national origin, or disability, as defined by this policy.
It shall also be a violation of District policy
for any teacher, administrator, or other school personnel of this District
to tolerate sexual harassment or harassment because of a student’s race,
color, national origin, ethnicity, or disability, as defined by this policy,
by a student, teacher, administrator, other school personnel, or by any
third parties who are participating in, observing, or otherwise engaged
in activities, including sporting events and other extra curricular activities,
under the auspices of the School District.
For purpose of this policy, the term “school
personnel” includes school board members, school employees, agents, volunteers,
contractors, or persons subject o the supervision and control of the District.
The school system will act to promptly investigate
all complaints, either formal or informal, verbal or written, of harassment
because of race, color, sex, national origin, or disability; to promptly
take appropriate
action to protect individuals from further harassment; and, if it determines
that unlawful harassment occurred, to promptly and appropriately discipline
any student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel who is found
to have violated this policy, and/or to take other appropriate action reasonably
calculated to end the harassment.
DISTRICT POLICY AGAINST HARASSMENT
1. Everyone at Blount County Schools has a right to feel respected
and safe. Consequently, we want you to know about our policy to prevent
sexual harassment, and harassment because of race, national origin, and
disability.
2. A harasser may be a student or an adult. Harassment
may include the following when related to sex, race, national origin, or
disability:
a. namecalling
b. pulling on clothing
c. graffiti
d. notes or cartoons
e. unwelcome touching of a person or
clothing
f. offensive or graphic posters or book
covers; or
g. violent acts
3. If any words or actions make you feel uncomfortable or fearful,
you need to tell a teacher, counselor, the principal, or Human Rights officer.
4. You may also make a written report. It should be given
to a teacher, counselor, the principal or Human Rights officer.
5. Your right to privacy will be respected as much as possible.
6. We take seriously all reports of sexual harassment, and harassment
based upon race, national origin, and disability, and will take all appropriate
action to investigate such claims, to eliminate that harassment, and to
discipline any persons found to have engaged in such conduct.
7. The School District will also take action if anyone tries
to intimidate you or take action to harm you because you made such a report.
8. This is a summary of this district’s policy against sexual
harassment, and harassment because of race, national origin, and disability.
A complete copy of the policy is available at the Blount County Schools
Central Office upon request.
Harassment based on sex, race, national
origin, and disability are against the law. Discrimination is against
the law. The Human Rights Officer for Blount County Schools is Alisa
Teffeteller, 831 Grandview Drive, Maryville, TN 37803
Phone: (865) 984-1212.
Minimum Consequences
(Kindergarten through 2nd grade)
1st Offense Suspension until student/parent
conference and Sensitivity Training for student
2nd Offense Two days In-school suspension
and additional Sensitivity Training for student
3rd Offense Two days Out-of-school
suspension and student/parent Sensitivity Training
4th Offense Suspended pending referral
to Disciplinary Hearing Authority
(3rd through 5th grade)
1st Offense Suspension until
student/parent conference and Sensitivity Training for student
2nd Offense Two days In-School
suspension and additional Sensitivity Training for student
3rd Offense Five days Out
of School suspension and student/parent Sensitivity Training
4th Offense Suspended pending
referral to Disciplinary Hearing Authority
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EMERGENCY INFORMATION
In case of emergency, each student is required
to have on file at the school office the following information:
1. Parent(s) or guardian(s) name(s)
2. Complete and up-to-date address
3. Home phone and parent(s) work phone (connected and working)
4. Emergency phone number of friend or relative (connected and
working)
5. Physician's name and phone
6. Medical alert information
7. Authorized person(s) allowed to pick up child.
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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY INSTITUTION
Blount County Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race,
sex, color, religion, national origin, age or disability in provision of
educational opportunities or employment opportunities and benefits. Blount
County Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex or disability
in the education programs and activities which it operates, pursuant to
the requirements of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as codified
in 42 USC 2000D; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Pub. L.
92-318 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Pub.L. 101-
336. Inquiries concerning Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, the
Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment
Act should be directed to the Human Rights Officer, Alisa Teffeteller,
831 Grandview
Drive, Maryville, TN 37803, phone: 865-984-1212. Charges
of violation of the above may also be directed to the Director of Schools.
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FEES
The fee for Blount County School system provides
a free education for all students in grades K-5. However, a donation
of $20 is appreciated to help cover the cost of consumable classroom materials
that students use throughout hte school year.
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FERPA
Student records maintained by the Blount County School System
are protected under Section 438 of the General Education Provisions Act.
The statute governs disclosure of records maintained by educational institutions
which receive federal funds. The statute provides that such institutions
must provide parents of students access to official records related to
the student an an opportunity for a hearing to challenge such records on
the grounds that they are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise inappropriate;
that institution must obtain written consent of parents before releasing
personally identifiable data about students from records other than a specified
list of exceptions; that parents and students must be notified of these
rights; that these rights transfer to students at certain points; and than
an office and review board must be established. This office is the
Family Policy Compliance Office of the US Department of Education, charged
with investigation and adjucation of violations and complaints under the
US Department of Education, charged with investigation and adjucation of
violations and compliance with Section 438. A copy of the policy
and administrative regulations adopted by the Blount County Board of Education
in compliance with Section 438 may be obtained by contacting Dr. David
Cook, 984-1212.
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FIELD TRIPS / "BEING THERE" EXPERIENCES
Field trips within our county and to nearby
points of interest are scheduled by various classroom teachers throughout
the school year. These trips are designed to supplement different aspects
of the classroom curriculum and to introduce students to the resources
of the community. Parents will receive notices of field trips well in advance
of the scheduled trip date and will be asked to sign field trip permission
forms. Sometimes a fee may be requested from each student to help defray
transportation or admission costs. Parents are encouraged to attend
field trip outings with the children. At times students may be denied
the privilege of going on a field trip if their conduct has been unsatisfactory.
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GRADING SYSTEM
Students are responsible for taking grades
home to parents. Parents should contact the school if grades are
not received by one week after the end of the 9 week reporting period.
(See student calendar for dates).
Grade cards will be sent home the Wednesday after
the last day of each nine weeks. See school calendar for dates.
The grade system is as follows:
A 93 - 100 Excellent
B 85 - 92 Above average
C 75 - 84 Average
D 70 - 74 Below average
F 69 and below Failure
Progress Reports
Progress Reports should be sent home at the
middle of each nine week grading period (4 1/2 weeks). Students are
responsible for getting these home. Parents are responsible for making
sure they have seen Progress Reports.
Retention/Promotion
The responsibility for retention or promotion
is a matter of professional judgment on the part of the teacher, principal,
and/or supervisor. The decision is based on evaluation of academic,
physical, social, and emotional growth. Primary reasons for retention
include: indifference or lack of effort on the part of a capable student;
physical or social immaturity; and frequent or long absences.
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HONOR ROLL
Academic achievement is recognized through
our honor rolls. The honor roll is compiled each nine weeks. Grades
in all subjects, as well as conduct, are used in determining the honor
students.
Honor Roll lists are sometimes printed in
newsletters, on the school web site, and posted in hallways. If any
parent objects to their child's name being listed, they should notify the
office in writing.
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ILLNESSES
If a student becomes too ill to remain in
class, we will reach the parents by phone and recommend that the student
be picked up. That is why it is so important that we have an updated,
working phone number on the emergency contact sheet to reach the parents.
If the child is ill, please do not send him/her to school. A student
that contracts a contagious disease or condition, such as pink eye, chickenpox,
ringworm, impetigo, or pediculosis (head lice) will be sent home from school
and must remain home until the condition or disease is corrected.
Head lice: Students who have come in
contact with head lice, will not be permitted to return to school until
the hair is completely free of all lice and nits. Over-the-counter
medication is now available to treat the hair so that the nits can be removed
from the hair shaft.
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INTERNET-TERMS
AND CONDITIONS OF USE
1. Acceptable use: The use of the Internet must be in support
of education and research and consistent with educational objectives of
the school system. Use of other organizations’ networks or computing
resources must comply with the rules appropriate for that network.
Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation
is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to copyrighted material,
threatening or obscene material, or material that is protected by a trade
secret. Use for commercial activities is not acceptable. Use
for product advertising or political lobbying is also prohibited.
2. Privileges: The use of the Internet is a privilege,
not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those
privileges. The School System administrators will deem what is inappropriate
use and their decision is final.
Also, the system administrators may suspend privileges at any time
as required.
3. Net Etiquette: You are expected to abide by the generally
accepted rules of network etiquette. These include (but are not limited
to) the following:
*Avoid offensive or inflammatory speech. Be courteous and polite.
*Use appropriate language. Profanity or obscenities are not permitted
at any time.
*Do not use the network in such a way that you would disrupt the work
of others.
*All communications and information accessible via the network should
be assumed to be private property. Users may not quote personal communications
without the author’s consent.
4. Vandalism: Vandalism will result in a cancellation of
privileges. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm
or destroy data of another user, the Internet, or other networks that are
connected to the Internet backbone. This
includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer
viruses.
5. Exception to Terms and Conditions: These terms and conditions
reflect the entire agreement of the parties and supersede all prior oral
and written agreements and understandings of the parties. These terms
and conditions shall
be governed and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State
of Tennessee and the United States of America.
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MAKE-UP WORK
All make-up work for absences must be completed within the week.
It is the responsibility of the student to secure assignments and turn
in the missed work. The time and nature of the make-up work may be
designated by the teacher. No make-up work will be provided for unexcused
absences.
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MEDIA ACCESS TO STUDENTS
School administrators shall be authorized
to grant permission and set parameters for media access to studnets in
their respective schools. Media representatives shall be required
to report to the administration for prior approval before accessing students
involved in instructional programs and activities not attended by the general
public. The media may interview and photograph students involved
in instructional programs and school activities, including athletic events.
Such media access shall not be unduly disruptive and shall comply with
Board policies.
Each year parents/guardians will be given
the option to withhold permission for public news media interviews or photographs
of their child at school. Specific parental/guardian permission must
be obtained if the story or photograph covers topics of a sensitive nature.
If any students is to be filmed or videotaped and will be identified or
will be a primary subject of the filming or taping, prior written consent/release/waiver
will be obtained from the student's guardian.
District employees may release student information
to the media only in accordance with applicable provisions of the education
records law and Board policies governing directory information and personally
identifiable information. Parents are advised of the Board's Media
Access to Students policy at the time of their registration and are provided
informaiton in the handbook.
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MEDICATION
Any student taking a medication prescribed by a
Medical Doctor must bring the medication to the office. Only
medication prescribed by a physician will be administered. The medication
must be in the original prescription bottle with a copy of the physician's
statement giving the dosage and times to be given. In addition, over-the-counter
medications such as Tylenol, Advil, cold medications, etc. will not be
given without a parent's signature on school medication forms.
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PARENT CONFERENCES
Parents are encouraged to be a part of their child’s education,
to visit the school at any time or to request parent conferences at any
time. Parents should call in advance to schedule meetings after or before
school. Parents can leave messages through the voice mail system.
School District Hotline: A special phone has been installed in the
office of the Director of Schools to take calls from students, parents,
or community members who may want to leave anonymous information or to
report rumors or knowledge of potential problems or dangerous situations.
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REGISTRATION
All students entering a Blount County School
for the first time must present:
1. Birth Certificate (original)
2. Social Security Number
3. Blount County Certificate of Immunization
4. Physical Examination
5. Dental Examination
6. Proof of Residence
7. Proof of Custody (if parents separated)
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SAFE SCHOOLS
Under the Tennesee State Board of Education's
Unsafe Schools Policy, any public school studnet who is the victim of a
violent crime as defined in TCA 40-38-111(g) or the attempt to commit one
of these offenses as defined under Tennesee Code Annotated 30-12-101, shall
be provided an opportunity to transfer to another grade-level appropriate
school within the district.
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SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER
To protect the safety of Blount County School students and staff
an officer from the Blount County Sheriff’s Office has been assigned to
each elementary school full-time.
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STUDENT RECORDS
Student records are protected under
Section 438 of the General Education Provisions Act. The statute governs
disclosure of records maintained by educational institutions which receive
federal funds. The statute provides that such institutions must provide
parents of students access to official records directly related to the
student and an opportunity for a hearing to challenge such records on grounds
that they are inaccurate, misleading or otherwise inappropriate, that institutions
must obtain written consent of parents before releasing personally identifiable
data about students from records other than a specified list of exceptions;
that parents and students must be notified of these rights; that these
rights transfer to students at certain points; and that an office and review
board must be established. This office is the Family Policy compliance
Office of the US Department of Education, charged with investigation and
adjudication of violators and complaints under Section 438. A copy
of the policy and administrative regulations adopted by the Blount County
Board of Education in compliance with Section 438 may be obtained by contacting
the Special Education Supervisor at 984-1212. Release of Directory Information:
Blount County Schools has designated certain information contained in the
education records of its students as directory information for the purposes
of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The following
information regarding students is considered directory information:
name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of
study, participation in official recognized sports, weight, and height
of members of athletic teams, years of attendance, diploma awarded and
honors/awards. Directory information may be disclosed by this institution
for any purpose in its discretion, without the consent of a parent of a
student or an eligible student. Parents of students and eligible
students have the right, however, to refuse to permit the designation of
any or all of the above information as directory information. In
that case this information will not be disclosed except with the consent
of a parent or student, or as otherwise allowed by FERPA. Any parent
or student refusing to have any or all of the designated directory information
disclosed must file written notification to this effect with the principal
of the school where the student attends on or before August 18, 2000.
In the event a written refusal is not filed, this institution assumes that
neither a parent of a student or an eligible student objects to the release
of the directory information.
Student Records: Annual Notification
of Rights. Parents have the right to inspect and review their child's
educational records. In addition, parents/guardians have the right
to obtain a copy of this policy and a copy of the child's educational records.
Parents may request correction of items in the record which are believed
to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student's rights,
including the right to a hearing upon request. Parents?Guardians
can file a complaint with the appropriate state or federal officials when
the school system violates laws and regulations relative to student records.
The school will exercise control over other people's access to student
records. Records will only be released with prior written consent
given by the parents or under circumstances as provided by law or regulations,
or where the system has designated certian information as "directory information".
Parents of stduents or eligible stuents have two weeks after notification
to advise the school system in writing of items they designate not to be
used as directory information. The school will mark the appropriate
student records for which directory information is to be limited, and this
designation will remain in effect until it is modified by the written direction
of the student's parents.
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SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
The Blount County School System provides
a full range of special education services for students with disabilities
whose educational needs cannot be met through the regular education program.
Students who have disabilities that meet the criteria established by the
State Department of Education and/or the federal government are afforded
due process rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
(IDEA). Conditions that may qualify a student for these services include:
specific learning disabilities, mental retardation, emotional disturbance,
and development delays. Students suspected of any of these conditions
have the right to a comprehensive evaluation by a multi-disciplinary team,
a free and appropriate education with non-disabled students to the greatest
extent possible, and due process rights. All records and information
regarding the assessment and Individualized Education Program (IEP) of
the student are kept confidential and can only be released with parental
consent. Parents have the right to review the records upon request.
For more information or to make a referral contact: David Cook, Director
of Federal Projects, Blount County Schools, 831 Grandview Drive, Maryville,
TN 37803, phone: 865-984-1212.
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SCHOOL VISITORS
Parents are always welcome to visit the school. Any visits
during the school day should be arranged with the principal and/or teachers.
Conferences and visits must be planned with prior notice. Teachers
and students work on a planned schedule and program. Unnecessary
interruptions consume time and hinder the program. For the protection
of the students and security in the school, it is required that any person
entering the building during the school day come directly to the office
before going to any other part of the school. All visitors are required
to wear a pass. No students will be permitted to leave the building
with a visitor without checking out through the school office.
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