• Expectation 1:Yes Ma'am, No Sir- When responding to any adult, you must answer by saying "Yes ma'am" or "No, sir." Just nodding your head or saying any other form of yes or no is not acceptable. 

• Expectation 2: Say Thank You- Always say thank you when you are given something. 

• Expectation 3: Transitions- When we are in transition from one subject or room to another, the change will be swift, quiet, and orderly. 

• Expectation 4: The Sub Clause- While you are with a substitute teacher, you will obey the same rules that you follow when the teacher is with you. Disrespect of a substitute teacher will be an automatic suspension from school. 

• Expectation 5: Clean up after yourself- After we eat and before we leave our classroom, we will clean up after ourselves.  It is important to be responsible for your trash no matter where you are, and to be sure not to litter. 

• Expectation 6: The Bus- When we ride on a bus, we will always sit facing forward.  We will use an appropriate  volume. We will never tum around to talk to other students, stick anything out the windows, be get out of our seats. When we exit the bus, we will always thank the bus driver and tell him/her to have a good day. 

• Expectation 7: Field trips- We are on our best behavior and use our best manners. 

• Expectation 8: Doors-  If you approach a door and someone is following you, hold the door. If the door opens by pulling, pull it open, stand to the side, and allow the other person to pass through first, then you can walk through. If the door opens by pushing, hold the door after you pass through. 

• Expectation 9: Silent Entry- We will enter the building so quietly that no one will even notice we are there. This rule applies to entering any place where people are gathered, whether it be the gym, the cafeteria, a classroom, or any other venue. It also applies to returning from recess ·and on field trips. 

• Expectation 10: Assemblies- During an assembly, do not speak and do not look around and try to get the attention of your friends in another class. We must uphold an image that shows we have our act together. Look at someone who is talking to you. 

• Expectation 11:Cutting Line- Never cut in line! If someone cuts in front of you, do not say or do anything to the student. Let it happen, but let someone know about it. We will handle the situation.· 

• Expectation 12: Other Students- I if any child in this school is bothering you, let someone know. We are here to look after you and protect you. We are not going to let anyone in this school bully you or make you feel uncomfortable. In return, we ask that you not take matters into your own hands; let us deal with the student. 

• Expectation 13:Be Positive- Be positive and enjoy life. Some things just aren't worth getting upset over. Keep everything in perspective and focus on the good in your life. 

• Expectation 14: Be Honest- No matter what the circumstances, always be honest. Even if you have done something -wrong, it is best to admit it! Honesty will be respected, and oftentimes we will forget any disciplinary measures because of your honesty. 

• Expectation 15:Be the Best- Be the best person you can be. By being the best you can be, we will be the best class and school we can be. 

 

In light of recent tragedies across our state and nation, we have taken measures to keep our students safe.

Morning Drop-Off Procedures

Our doors open at 7:15 a.m.  Students should not be dropped off at school until this time.  Upon arrival, students will report to the assigned location to wait with their class.  Car riders are to be let out, only, at the front of our building.  Since we only have one drop-off point, it is very important that cars pull to the far end of the building (#1) to drop off students.  Otherwise, it will cause our traffic to back up even further.

Students will enter the building without parents/guardians each morning.  (The only exception is Kindergarten parents during staggered enrollment.)  This safety measure makes it easier for school faculty and staff to identify any unauthorized people in our school.  Teachers are assigned various duty locations in the building and administrators will be monitoring the building at car rider      drop-off and bus drop-off each morning.

Students who eat breakfast at school will go to the cafeteria at 7:30. Breakfast eaters that come in later need to drop off their backpack in the appropriate place and then go to breakfast.  Car riders who plan to eat breakfast must be at school by 7:45 in order to eat and be on time to class.

Parents may enter the building after 8:10.  They will be buzzed in at the main entrance.  By that time, all students will be in a secured area with their teacher.  Any parent/guardian who needs to speak with a teacher must schedule a meeting during the teacher’s planning period.  For immediate attention, please call the school to talk or meet with an administrator.

Afternoon Dismissal Procedures

Dismissal time for Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade Car Riders is 3:00.  Older siblings are dismissed with their younger siblings at 3:00.  Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade Car Riders are dismissed at 3:20.  Please adhere to these times.  If you are picking up an older student only before 3:20, you will be asked to pull around.  Otherwise, we have a backup of cars.  We will not be able to call for your student to be dismissed after the dismissal process has started.  Please know that we do not allow parents to walk up to get their child/children.  We ask that you stay in your vehicle and drive around.  Thank you for being patient as traffic does back up during car rider pickup time.  For our students’ safety, stay in line, display your current year’s car tag to the caller and then to the person placing your child in your vehicle, and pull to the assigned pickup area.  Anyone picking up a student without the assigned tag will be asked to park.  A staff member will come to the vehicle, ask for and check a photo ID along with the list of people that parents have approved to pick up the child.  If the individual is not on the list, we will call the parents for approval.  Only then will the child be dismissed.  This process may take a little time, but please know it is for the child’s safety.  Students must be picked up no later than 3:40.  If you will be delayed longer than 3:40, please make arrangements with someone else to pick up your child.

Afternoon Sign-Outs

Parents will not be able to sign their child out after 2:45. If you need your child for an appointment, please make plans to sign them out prior to 2:45.

 

If any changes must be made for a student’s transportation needs, (ride a bus, pickup by a grandparent or friend, ride home with a friend, etc…) a parent note must be sent to the student’s teacher to inform him/her of that change.  This is for the safety of our students.  A phone call may also be placed to the office at (865)-397-3127.  That call needs to be made prior to 2:45 p.m. to guarantee the change.  If no note or phone call is received, we will go with the usual dismissal plan.

Parents/guardians, upon request to Central Office, shall be given the opportunity to review the Asbestos Management Plan for the county.  Dandridge Elementary School is asbestos-free.

Attendance is critical to student achievement, so students are expected to be present each day school is in session.  Our attendance goal is 95% each day!  Our day at Dandridge Elementary School begins at 8:00.  We expect all students to be in the building and ready to begin the day by this time.  Students are considered tardy at 8:00.

Absence is defined as not attending for an entire day or a major portion of the school day.  Absences shall be classified as either excused or unexcused as determined by the principal or his/her designee.  Excused absences shall include:

1. Personal illness with a doctor’s excuse
2. Death in the family- documented by an obituary notice
3. Religious observances
4. Doctor/Dentist appointment- The office may fax an excuse to us at (865)-397-1465.
5. Circumstances which, in the judgement of the principal/designee, create contingencies over which the student has no control
6. Court appointment- documented by a form from the court

Absence of a student participating in school-sponsored activities, whether on- or off-campus, shall be excused.  To qualify as “school-sponsored”, the activity must be school-planned,                  school-directed, and teacher-supervised.

Early dismissals disrupt the learning day and are strongly discouraged.

Chronic Absenteeism is defined as a student missing 10% or 18 total days for the entire school year. Tennessee state requirements mandate that schools track Chronic Absenteeism and support students who are absent for any reason.  A student who is absent five days without adequate excuse shall be reported to the Director of Schools/designee who will, in turn, provide written notice to the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student’s absence.  If a parent/guardian does not provide documentation within adequate time excusing those absences or request an attendance hearing, then the Director of Schools shall implement tier two of the progressive truancy plan.  Any absence from school is included in the definition of Chronic Absenteeism:  excused days, unexcused days, and out of school suspensions.

Truancy is one of the leading indicators of low reading abilities, failing grades, and later dropping out of school.  Please help us keep your child/children in school every day.  To help your child stay in good standing with attendance, avoiding truancy or chronic absenteeism, here are some recommendations:

• Talk about the importance of showing up to school everyday and make that the expectation.
• Schedule medical and dental appointments before or after school.
• Follow the school calendar posted on the Jefferson County Schools’ website to plan vacation days.
• Set a regular bedtime and morning routine.  Lay out clothing and supplies the night before school days.
• Set your alarm, leaving extra time for unexpected delays.

Tier I of the progressive truancy plan shall apply to all students within the district and include schoolwide prevention-oriented supports to assist with satisfactory attendance.  If a student accumulates a minimum of 5 unexcused absences in violation of the attendance policy as addressed in Tier I, the student will be required to receive Tier II interventions.

Tier I:

Tier I of the progressive truancy intervention plan shall include schoolwide prevention-oriented supports:

1. Notification of the Attendance Policy each school year.                                                    

2. Conferencing with the student and/or parent(s)/guardian(s).                                              

3. Education on the importance of school attendance.

Tier II:

Tier II of the progressive truancy intervention plan shall include the following:

1. Each school will initiate a referral process for students of concern due to attendance.

2. A conference with the student and the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s);                                    

 3. An attendance contract, based on the conference, signed by the student, the parent(s)/guardian(s), and an attendance supervisor or designee. The contract shall include:

     a. A specific description of the school’s attendance expectations for the student;             

     b. The period for which the contract is effective; and                                                          

     c. Penalties for additional absences and alleged school offenses, including additional disciplinary action and potential referral to juvenile court; and                                         

4. Regularly scheduled follow-up meetings to discuss the student’s progress.                             

5.  Individualized assessment by school employee of the reasons a student has been absent from school; and                                                                                                                                       6.  If necessary, referral of the child to counseling, community-based services, or other in-school or out-of-school services aimed at addressing the student’s attendance problems.

Under this tier, the attendance contract will be initiated or updated with the parent/guardian and student.

Tier III:

This tier shall be implemented if the truancy interventions under Tier II are unsuccessful.  Tier III may consist of 1 or more of the following:

1. School-based community services;                                                                                     

2. Participation in a school-based restorative justice program;                                                       

3. Referral to a school-based teen court; or Saturday or after-school courses designed to improve attendance and behavior.                                                                                                            

These interventions shall be determined by a team formed at each school. The interventions shall address student needs in an age-appropriate manner. Finalized plans shall be approved by the Director of Schools/designee.

School principals shall provide students with a one-day excused absence prior to the deployment of and a one-day excused absence upon the return of a parent or custodian serving active military service.    

Principals shall also allow up to ten (10) excused cumulative absences per year for students to visit a parent/guardian during a deployment cycle. The student shall provide documentation to the school as proof of his/her parent's/guardian's deployment. Students shall be permitted to make up schoolwork missed during these absences.

 

All missed class work or tests (whether from excused or unexcused absence) may be made up if the student makes the request immediately upon returning to school and if class time is not taken from other students.

The perfect attendance certificate will be awarded based on the attendance report kept in the register.

Student attendance records shall be given the same level of confidentiality as other student records.  Only authorized school officials with legitimate educational purposes may have access to student information without the consent of the student or parent/guardian.

Please see Attendance Policy 6.2 for additional information.

The faculty, staff, and administration of Dandridge Elementary School are excited about the opportunity to work with your child for the coming school year.  It is our philosophy that school is a place where teachers have a right to teach and students have a right to learn.  Our ultimate goal is to develop in students a sense of responsibility and self-discipline.  To assist us in placing this philosophy into action, we have adopted a school-wide discipline plan to guide student behavior, to assist teachers in setting limits, and to also give positive feedback to students.  Please see The Bear Necessities following this section for the DES plan.

We have three primary behavioral expectations.  They are to be polite, safe, and responsible.  Other expectations follow from these three.  These expectations will be taught and modeled in the classroom.  Each offense will be dealt with on an individual basis.  It is our intent to work with students, parents, and faculty to provide appropriate discipline for each individual child.  The following are administrative options that may be used in place of or in addition to classroom consequences depending on the situation and parental request:  guidance referral, detention, behavioral contracting, and/or a parent/teacher/administrator conference.

Administration reserves the right and authority as outlined in TN Code Annotated to respond appropriately should a severely disruptive behavior problem occur that mandates immediate action.

Students who abide by the rules will be rewarded with verbal praise, recognition, notes home, special activities, and events as deemed appropriate by the teacher and/or administration.

Our school has an in-school suspension (ISS) that is provided for students who choose not to comply with school-wide and/or classroom rules.  Students may be placed in this alternative learning environment only at the discretion of administration.  When a student has been placed in ISS, administration will contact the student’s classroom teacher and the ISS assistant.  The classroom teacher is responsible for providing any classroom work which the student will miss during his/her stay in ISS.  All students will be expected to sit quietly and work on his/her daily assignments.  Failure to comply could result in further consequences that may include out-of- school suspension.  If a student’s behavior continuously disrupts classroom learning or in any way places a student or staff member in any physical danger, he/she may be placed in out-of-school suspension for a designated number of days.

Dandridge Elementary School Behavioral Expectations are called

THE BEAR NECESSITIES

BE Polite

BE Safe

BE Responsible

Expectations

	BE Polite	BE Safe	BE Responsible
Cafeteria	Keep hands to self Use respectful behavior towards lunchroom personnel or supervisors	Listen to the adult in charge Remain in your seat until instructed to clean your table or throw away trash	Use an appropriate voice level Leave tables and floor clean and free of trash or food
Recess	Follow teacher directions Good sportsmanship Share equipment	Use equipment appropriately Hands and feet to self Report injuries to a teacher as soon as possible	Line up quickly when called Stay in designated play areas Use play equipment appropriately
Halls	Follow teacher directions Keep hands off wall and backpacks Voice Level at 0	Use walking feet Face forward while walking Keep hands and feet to self	Go directly to where you need to go Look to your teacher for directions Walk directly behind the person in front of you
Arrival/ Departure	Follow teacher directions & safety patrol Calm body Sit in appropriate spot to wait on directions	Walk in a line to your bus following a teacher Hold up your number when called to car riders Stay behind the white line while waiting on your car	Be on time Walk directly where you need to go
Classroom	Follow teacher directions Use appropriate voice levels Listen to speaker	Hands, feet, and objects to self Walk Follow teacher directions	Follow classroom rules at all time Finish work Put in your best effort
Restroom	Follow teacher directions Honor privacy Wait your turn patiently	Use soap and water for washing hands Keep restrooms clean and dry Only 4 students in the restroom at a time	Flush toilet after use Use quickly, then leave Report concerns to an adult
Special Areas	Follow teacher directions Use appropriate voice levels	Hands, feet, and objects to self Use equipment appropriately	Follow teacher direction for cleanup Leave the room better than you found it
Bus	Follow driver’s directions Use appropriate voice level	Stay in seat Hands, feet, and objects to self	Get to bus on time Walk on and off quickly
Assemblies/ Special Events	Follow teacher directions Be attentive Voice Level 0	Hands and feet to self Stay in seat Face Forward	Applaud when finished Wait to be dismissed Follow teacher directions

At DES, we feel it is a matter of personal and school pride that every student and faculty/staff member make a commitment to do everything possible so that the appearance of the school and grounds expresses a positive message to everyone.  This commitment includes using the commonsense approach.  Trash belongs in trash cans, food in the cafeteria, gum and graffiti have no place on the floors or walls, and the furniture and equipment in the school are for use and not abuse.  Students who disfigure property or do other damage to school or personal property or equipment will be required to pay for the damage or replace the item as well as be charged with a severe offense under our discipline policy.

School bus transportation is provided by the taxpayers of Tennessee and is a privilege, not a right, extended to all eligible students.  Misconduct on the bus, at bus stops, or in the bus duty area at school may result in the loss of this privilege.  Students are under supervision and control of the bus driver while on his/her bus and all directions given by the driver while on his/her bus will be followed.  The bus driver will inform administration of any serious discipline problems.  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 and regulations pertaining to student transportation.  Any student wishing to ride a bus other than his/her designated bus must have written parental permission and the approval of the principal or his/her designee.  Please note we may adjust as necessary if any COVID rules regarding buses remain in effect.

In the operation of the child nutrition program, no student will be discriminated against because of race, sex, color, national origin, age, or disability.  A student enrolled in Jefferson County Schools may be eligible for free or reduced-price meals and/or free milk if they are found eligible.  Students identified as foster care, homeless, migrant, or runaway are categorically eligible for free meals and free milk.

Applications for free/reduced lunch are available at jeffersoncotn.schoollunchapp.com or in the school office and must be resubmitted every year.  An application for free or reduced-price meals cannot be approved unless it contains complete information.  All information provided on the application may be verified at any time during the school year.  For more information as to the free or reduced-price meals or for questions as to the appeal process due to an application denial, please contact Student Nutrition at 865-397-3945.

Breakfast and lunch are served in the cafeteria at a small cost.  Breakfast will be served beginning at 7:30 a.m.  Car riders wanting to eat breakfast should be at school by 7:45 in order to eat and arrive to class on time.  When charged, students may prepay for their meals by the week or month.  Checks should be made out to Dandridge Elementary School Cafeteria and given to the classroom teacher.  Breakfasts and lunches may also be paid for online at jc-tn.net.  Look for My Payments Plus on the homepage.  School Board policy does not permit the charging of meals for more than five (5) days. Applications for free/reduced lunch are available at jeffersoncotn.schoollunchapp.com or in the school office and must be resubmitted every year.    To ensure that you do not have any past due lunch/breakfast charges, please complete the application online or return the hard copy form as soon as it is received from the school at the beginning of the year.   

All food and drinks must be consumed in the cafeteria.  Glass bottles or carbonated sodas are not to be sent in a student’s lunch. Students who bring their own lunch from home need to have food that is ready to eat.  We do not have microwaves for student use.

We ask that each student be responsible and respectful in the cafeteria.  We believe all students have the right to eat lunch in a clean and safe environment.  Students will be encouraged to use and demonstrate acceptable social manners while using the lunchroom facilities.  Inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.

We invite parents to visit Dandridge Elementary School within the context of the following guidelines assuming no COVID restrictions:

• An appointment must be made in advance to see a teacher.  The appointment will be made when the teacher is not instructing or on extra-duty assignments.  Our policy is to accept only those visitors who have legitimate business at the school.
• All visitors will report to the receptionist to receive a visitor’s pass.  Issuance of a pass will be at the discretion of administration.  An administrator may refuse to issue a visitor’s pass anytime he/she feels it is in the best interest of the school.
• Display the visitor’s pass while in the building.  Any person on school grounds anytime without written permission is trespassing and is subject to arrest by local authorities.  Visitors to the school and campus are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner.  Foul language and disorderly conduct will not be tolerated.  It is our goal to provide a safe and orderly educational environment for our students.
• Upon exiting the building, inform the receptionist you are leaving, return your pass, and sign out.

Dandridge Elementary School operates a closed campus.  This means that students are required to stay on campus at all times during the school day.  If a student leaves school without permission, they will be reported to the police as a missing or runaway student and their parent/guardian will be notified.

The purpose of the school counseling program at our school is to promote the learning process with the focus on the whole child.  All school personnel are involved in the counseling objectives.  Our actions show students they are respected and cared about.  Our school counselor, Mrs. Nix, focuses on classroom guidance lessons, small groups, and individual counseling.  Every other week she goes into classrooms to share lessons that follow the Tennessee standards for school counseling.  The focus is on three domains: personal/social, academic, and career.  Her small groups are brief interventions designed for students who may need assistance in the normal process of growing up.  Topics may include anger, behaviors, divorce, grief, social skills, and setting goals.  Individual counseling is provided as needed and is a brief intervention that will, hopefully, help a child get back on track.

Mrs. Nix is certified by the state as a school counselor and is not a therapist.  She has a Bachelor of Science in Child Psychology and Human Development and Learning along with Master of Science and Education Specialist degrees in School Counseling and Mental Health.  Her goal is to assist students and to consult with parents and teachers in order to help children achieve their best.

It is the goal of Dandridge Elementary School to provide a quality education for students in an atmosphere that is conducive to learning.  It is our belief that a learning environment is maintained when students wear clothing that is neat, modest, moderate, and decent and that does not draw attention to the individual rather than the learning environment.  Therefore, the following are guidelines to be followed concerning student dress, along with the JCBOE Dress Code (K-5) in the back of this handbook.

Slacks, Blue Jeans, Pants

• Pants will be hemmed and worn at the waist.

Skirts and Dresses

• Skirts and dresses will be a minimum length of mid-thigh.

Shorts

• Shorts will be a minimum length of mid-thigh and will be worn at the waist.

Shirts and Blouses

• Tank tops, halter tops, and spaghetti straps without a sweater or jacket are not permitted.

For All Apparel

• Clothing must be neat.
• No holes, rips, or tears will be allowed.
• Clothing will fit properly and will not be unreasonably tight or baggy.
• Students will wear appropriate undergarments and those undergarments will not be visible.

Shoes

• No soft soled flip-flops or shoes with wheels.
• On days when students will be participating in gym, they will be expected to wear tennis shoes/sneakers.

Hats

• Hats are not permitted unless the day is a special occasion set aside by administration.

Hair

• Hair will be worn in a manner that does not disrupt the educational process and does not call attention to the individual.

Jewelry

• Facial jewelry will be limited to the ear.
• Two earrings per ear will be permitted.  No dangling or hoop earrings bigger than ½ inch will be permitted.

Symbolism

• The board prohibits the display of any symbol on school property or any object (such as a book bag, backpack, etc…) that promotes racial discord or is related to gang activity.

Per the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the district may disclose appropriately designated directory information without written consent, unless the parent(s)/guardian(s) has opted out of the disclosure of directory information.  Directory Information relating to a student includes the following:  name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent or previous educational agency or institution attended by the student.

FERPA affords parent(s)/guardian(s) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records.  These rights are

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within forty-five (45) days after the day the district receives a request for access.

1. Parent(s)/guardian(s) or eligible students who wish to inspect education  records shall submit to the principal a written request that identifies the records they wish to inspect.
2. Arrangements for access will be made, and the parent(s)/guardian(s) will be notified of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

 

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent/guardian believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.

 

3. The right to provide written consent before school discloses personally identifiable information from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

 

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA.  The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

 

Family Policy Compliance Office

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC   20202

 

In case of an emergency, if the school is unable to reach anyone at the telephone number(s) on a child’s student information sheet, one or all of the following steps may be necessary:

1. Call 911- Parents will pay any accompanying charges.
2. Report to the Department of Children’s Services. (DCS)
3. Report to law enforcement agency.

We must have working phone numbers at all times.

Field trips are a vital and enjoyable part of our students’ school experience.  We feel that field trips can be very important when designed as an extension to our students’ learning experience.  Therefore, our field trips are of educational value in nature.  Attendance on field trips enhances the learning experience.

Money and permission slips must be turned in by the deadline on the permission slip.  Money for field trips cannot be accepted after the deadline as the school will have already written the final check for tickets or payment.  Refunds can only be given if the school is refunded.  No refunds will be given if the request is past the field trip date.  Bus costs cannot be refunded at any time.  Refund requests from parents must be made to the bookkeeper in writing.

It is our intention for all students to have the opportunity to attend scheduled grade level field trips.  However, sometimes behaviors interfere with these opportunities.  The administration may find it necessary to not allow a student to attend a field trip due to inappropriate behavior.

 

1. Parents/guardians will be called if a student is infested with lice.  Per board policy, if a parent or guardian is unable to pick up, the student is allowed to stay at school and ride the bus home.
2. Parents/guardians who pick up students who have been identified with lice will be shown the infestation evidence and given appropriate information regarding treatment of the child, other family members, and the home environment.
3. Students returning to school after treatment of an infestation will be checked for treatment and the absence of all lice is noted.
4. Principals are authorized to provide up to three excused absences annually for students with lice infestations.  One excused day per incident.  Repeat problems will not be excused.
5. A parent or another adult must bring the student in to be re-checked.  He/she may not return to school on the bus until checked for absence of lice.
6. Recurring problems will be referred to Family Resource for additional support.

The Director of Schools will notify area radio and television stations if school is cancelled or delayed because of bad weather or if early dismissal is necessary.  Parents should listen to one of these stations for information.  Please have a plan already in place so that your child will know what to do in each of these situations.  Your child’s teacher should always know the current plan if we are dismissed early.  A phone message will also be sent to your child’s main contact number.  Please keep us updated as phone numbers change so we have a current working number in Aspen, our student information system.  In the event of a delay, either one hour or two hour, breakfast will not be served.

Boys and Girls Club:  The Boys and Girls Clubs of Dumplin Valley defines severe/hazardous weather conditions as any weather condition that may endanger our club members and staff while enroute to and from our sites.  The intent of this policy is to ensure the safety of students and staff of Boys & Girls Clubs of Dumplin Valley during severe/hazardous weather.

The safety of children is our main priority, therefore, in the event of hazardous weather conditions, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dumplin Valley will not receive children on days when schools close early during inclement weather. If there is a change to this information, the Boys and Girls Club will notify the school and/or the parents.

 

This plan is based on the concept that families have a major influence on their children’s achievement in school and throughout life.  As a result of this influence, positive results with student achievement occur when schools, families, and community groups work together to support learning.  The focus of the plan is to build trusting, collaborative relationships among teachers, families, and community members.  It also recognizes, respects, and addresses families’ needs, as well as class and cultural differences.  The plan is a working document and will continue to grow and develop as the current process is evaluated annually for effectiveness.  All stakeholders will be involved in the evaluation process.  The plan will be on our webpage, available for pickup at our Open House, and always available in the office.

The Jefferson County School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to designated youth groups. The following person(s) has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies.

Director of Student Support Services Jefferson County Schools 1221 Gay Street Dandridge, TN   37725 865-397-3194

Inquiries may also be made to the Office of Civil Rights.  The address of the regional office which covers Tennessee is:

United States Department of Education                                                                    

Office of Civil Rights                                                                                                 

Atlanta Office, Southern Division          

61 Forsyth St. S.W. 

Suite 19T70            

Atlanta, GA   30303    

404-974-9406

Students are encouraged to check out books from our school library.  All students are encouraged to read with their parents daily.  It is the responsibility of the student/family to pay for lost or damaged library books.

Please label your child’s coat, jacket, lunchbox, etc. This will help the school return lost items to their rightful owner.  Lost items should be turned in to the office.  Lost clothing will be held for a short period.  Items left at the end of the month will be donated to a local charity.

Students should not bring large amounts of money, playing cards, digital music players, (i.e. iPods), hand-held electronic games, laser lights, collectible cards, (i.e. Pokemon) or toys to school.

The school clinic’s goal is to protect the school community from the spread of communicable diseases.  A student should not attend school if they have an illness that prevents them from participating comfortably in school activities and/or could be spread to others.  In order for a student to return to school following an illness, please note the following criteria:

• The student must be fever-free for 24 hours without taking Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or Aspirin-type medication
• If vomiting and/or diarrhea is an issue, a student must be home 24 hours following the last episode.  A normal diet should already have been resumed at home.
• With any bacterial infections, strep throat, impetigo, or pinkeye, a student is to be home  24 hours following the beginning of antibiotics prescribed by a doctor.
• Failure to follow these guidelines will mean the student will be sent home until recovery is complete.  If parents have any questions or concerns, please contact our nurse.

For minor injuries, medical supplies are located in the clinic.  These would include Bactine, Peroxide, Neosporin, and Calamine lotion, and Band Aids.  If a child is running a fever, the nurse is responsible for contacting parents to pick the child up.

Prescription medication must be brought to school by the parent in the original pharmacy labeled container.  The container shall display:

• Child’s name
• Medication name, dosage, and time
• Administration route or other directions
• Licensed prescriber’s name, phone number, fax number
• Medication form requires physician’s signature and parent signature.

1. Doctor’s orders must be done yearly.
2. No medication can be transported by a student.

Changes in prescription medications shall have written authorization from the licensed prescriber.  All non-prescription drugs given at school must be brought to the school in the manufacturer’s original label with ingredients listed and the child’s name affixed to the container.  In order to be given at school, a written parent/guardian request must include:

• Child’s name
• Name and signature of parent/guardian
• Name of medication, dosage, route, and time of administration
• Parent/guardian’s phone number in case of emergency

1. Medication form requires parent signature.
2. Any medication that can be- should be given at home.

The following are requirements for all children to attend school:

1. Certified Birth Certificate
2. Record of current immunizations- recorded on the Tennessee Official Immunization Certificate available at the Health Department
3. Record of current physical
4. Proof of residence
5. Acceptable evidence of legal guardianship

Immunizations Required:

DTP/Td:        Four (4) doses, one of which was given on or after the fourth birthday- If age seven (7) or older, three doses are required.

Polio (OPV/IPV):  Four (4) doses- If the third dose was given on or after the fourth birthday, the fourth dose is not required.  If a combination of OBV/IPV is given, four doses are required regardless of age.

MMR: Two (2) doses are required for all students in grades K through 12.  One dose must be given on or after the first birthday.  The second dose should be administered at least 30 days after the first dose.

Hepatitis B: All students entering kindergarten will be required to be immunized against Hepatitis B.  This is a series of three shots given at the appropriate times.

Hepatitis A:   Two (2) doses

Varicella: Two (2) doses or credible history of disease

Per state law, the district is required to provide information to parent(s)/guardian(s) as to the following diseases.

Meningococcal meningitis is inflammation of the tissues and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria or viruses.  Symptoms can include fever, sudden severe headache, stiff neck, rash, nausea, and vomiting.

The bacteria that causes meningococcal meningitis is very common.  Most people will carry this bacteria in the back of their nose and throat at some point in their lives without ever getting sick.  In a few people, the bacteria overcomes the body’s immune system and passes through the lining of the nose and throat into the blood stream where it can cause meningitis.

Meningitis is spread through exchange of respiratory droplets or saliva with an infected person.  Only a small percentage of people who are exposed to the bacteria will develop meningitis.  The bacteria that causes meningitis is not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been.

There is a vaccine that will decrease the risk of some types of meningococcal meningitis, but it does not totally eliminate risk of the disease.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs.  Symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, feeling tired, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea.

Flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or talks.  A person can also get the flu by touching something that has the flu virus on it and then touching his/her mouth, eyes, or nose.

There is a vaccine that can be received in the form of a flu shot or by nasal spray that can protect against the flu.

To receive additional information regarding these diseases, including locations to receive the vaccinations, contact your family doctor or the local health department.

Students will attend the school within the zone to which they are assigned by virtue of residence of their legal and/or custodial parent.

Parents are required to request an out of zone exemption by completing a yearly out of zone request.  The approval is contingent on several factors including:

1. Class Enrollment- Should your child’s enrollment cause a school to reach capacity, your

child will be reassigned to the school where they are zoned.

2. Good Standing- Should your child create a disruption to the learning environment, the building administrator has the right to revoke this waiver.  Examples may include poor attendance, behavior issues, or other reasons that the building administration determines is creating a disruption.
3. Transportation- Under no circumstance will Jefferson County Schools transport your child to a school they are not zoned to attend.

Out of Zone requests will be reviewed by the school principal, approved or denied, and then submitted to the Director of Schools.

Please join our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO).  PTO supports our students and teachers, along with funding projects that benefit Dandridge Elementary School.  We are very appreciative of our PTO.

Please note that separate checks should be made for lunch, fees, pictures, field trips, etc.  We ask that you write your child’s name on the check and what the money is for to ensure that the money is credited to the correct account.  You may pay for lunch online at mypaymentsplus  on our website, jc-tn.net.  During the last two weeks of school, only cash will be accepted for any payments.   

Dandridge Elementary School yearbooks are made available each year.  You may order a copy of the yearbook during the fall.  The yearbooks are delivered in the spring.  Extra copies may be available for sale at that time.

In the event students need to be relocated from the physical site of Dandridge Elementary School, we will notify parents through our Blackboard/One Call system.  Our relocation sites will vary based on need.  Parents will need to bring a photo ID to pick up their child.

For information about students’ rights and services, contact the Tennessee Department of Education:

Andrew Johnson Tower                                                                                                                   710 James Robertson Parkway                                                                                                      Nashville, TN 37243                                                                                                                Phone: (615)-741-2731                                                                                      https://www.tn.gov/education

Board policies may be modified or added throughout the school year.  The current text of all policies is available in the following location:

tsba.net/Jefferson-county-board-of-education-policy-manual/

Contact information:

Dandridge Elementary School- 865-397-3127

Jefferson County Schools Central Office- 865-397-3194

Fire Drills:

• Fire drills requiring full evacuation shall be held at least one (1) time every thirty (30) school days with two (2) fire drills occurring during the first thirty (30) full days of the school year.

Intruder Drill:

• Each school shall conduct at least one (1) armed intruder drill annually.

CPR/AED Drill:

• Each school having one (1) or more AEDs shall schedule annual CPR/AED training for ALL school personnel and conduct an annual CPR and AED Drill.

Additional Drills:

• Each school shall conduct three (3) additional drills, not requiring full evacuation, during each school year.

Deliveries during the school day of flowers, balloons, stuffed animals, and other items to students are prohibited.

Cell phones are not allowed during school hours: 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.  If phones are out during this time or if they ring, they are subject to search.  If a cell phone is problematic, the student may be referred to administration.  Cell phones brought on school property are subject to search.   Students are not permitted to take pictures during the school day.  This includes any devices not used for educational purposes.

All basic texts are loaned to students for their use during the school year.  Textbooks are to be kept clean and handled carefully.  The child’s name should be written on the appropriate space inside the book to identify it in case the book is misplaced.  It is the responsibility of the student/family to pay for lost or damaged textbooks.

Under the Tennessee State Board of Education’s Unsafe School Choice Policy, any public school student who is the victim of a violent crime as defined under Tennessee Code Annotated 40-38-111(g), or the attempt to commit one of these offenses as defined under Tennessee Code Annotated 39-12-101, shall be provided an opportunity to transfer to another grade-level appropriate school within the district.  Additional information regarding this option may be obtained by contacting (865)-397-3194.

 

2022-23 Jefferson County Schools Assessment Calendar
Testing Window	Assessment	Grade Levels	Purpose and Use	Subject and Time	Parents Informed
August 10-19	iReady Benchmark/ Diagnostic Assessment (District required)	Grades 1-8, all students	Fall Screener, diagnostic assessment	ELA/Math (45 minutes)	Parent report sent home with each benchmark. K-3 parents receive letter if students identified as having “significant reading deficits.”
September 6-16	iReady Benchmark/ Diagnostic Assessment (District required)	Grade K only, all students	Fall Screener, diagnostic assessment	ELA/Math (45 minutes)	Parent report sent home with each benchmark. K-3 parents receive letter if students identified as having “significant reading deficits.”
August (Grades 1-8), September (K only)as needed	Easy CBM Drill Down Assessment (District Required)	Grades K-8, some students as determined by benchmark	Skills-based screener to follow iReady diagnostic	ELA/Math—times vary according to individuals	Results shared upon request or with progress monitoring reports for qualifying students.
September 2022/TBD	Verification Test (State Required)	Grades, subject TBD	Practice run for online assessments	Required by law, allows districts and the state to complete online practice test to be sure online platforms are ready for online testing	No student reports available for parents.
October 2-7	MVPA Benchmark (District Required)	Grades 6-11	Measure progress/standards mastery throughout the year in tested subjects; use for planning instruction	Grades 6-8—Science/Social Studies Grades 9-11—English 9, Algebra I (year-long courses only)	Results shared upon request.
October 24-28	MVPA Benchmark (District Required)	Grades 9-11	Measure progress/standards mastery throughout the year in tested subjects; use for planning instruction	Grades 9-11—English 10, Algebra I/II, Geometry, Biology (semester/block courses only)	Results shared upon request.
October 18	ACT Senior Retake Date  (State required): COMPUTER BASED	Grade 12	College Readiness	English (45 min); Math (60 min); Reading (35 min); Science (35 min).  Students must take this test in person.	Student reports provided by ACT.
Fall—Ongoing	Portfolio	Pre-K	Measure growth on standards	Reading/Math--times vary according to individuals	Results reflected in progress reports.
December 5-16	iReady Benchmark (District Required)	Grades 1-8, all students	Winter Screener	ELA/Math (45 minutes)	Parent report sent home with each benchmark.
December 5-16	MVPA Benchmark (District Required)	Grades 6-9	Measure progress/standards mastery throughout the year in tested subjects; use for planning instruction	Grades 6-8—Science/Social Studies Grades 9-11—English 9, Algebra I (year-long courses only)	Results shared upon request.
November -December 2022 (Dates TBD)	TCAP EOC (State required): COMPUTER BASED	Grades 9-11 (Fall Semester Block Courses)	Measure student mastery and growth on state standards.	English 10, Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, Biology For testing times, visit: https://www.tn.gov/education/assessment/testing-times-by-grade-subject.html For specific dates, see JCHS Spring Testing Dates. NOTE:  All students, including Virtual School students, must participate in person.	Quick scores used to calculate final grades, which will count as 15% of a student’s final grade.  Student reports provided by State.
December 2022 (specific dates TBD)	Statewide Dual Credit Exams (State Required): COMPUTER BASED	Grades 10-12 Various	Scoring used for college/university credit based on scores.	For specific dates, see JCHS Spring Testing Dates.	Results shared by JCHS.
January 9-20	iReady Benchmark (District Required)	Grade K, all students	Winter Screener	ELA/Math (45 minutes)	Parent report sent home with each benchmark.
February-April  2023, Dates TBD	WIDA ACCESS/ELL Assessment (State Required)	Grades K-12, ELL students only	Evaluate English language proficiency	For testing times, visit: https://www.tn.gov/education/assessment/english-learner-assessments.html NOTE:  All students, including Virtual School students, must participate in person.	Student reports provided by State.
March 21	ACT (State Required): COMPUTER BASED	Grade 11	College Readiness	English (45 min); Math (60 min); Reading (35 min); Science (35 min).  NOTE:  All students, including Virtual School students, must participate in person.	Student reports provided by ACT.
Spring 2023, Date TBD	TDOE Verification Test (State Required)	Grades/Subj TBD	Assess district/state readiness for future online tests.	Required by law, allows districts and the state to complete online practice test to be sure online platforms are ready for online testing	No student reports available for parents.
March -April 2023, Dates TBD	TCAP Alt./SS & Science (State required); MSAA/ELA & Math (State required); Grade 2 Alt, MSAA (District option)	Grades 2-12	Measure academic achievement against modified, more accessible academic standards.	Math, ELA, Science, SS For testing times, visit: https://www.tn.gov/education/assessment/alternate-assessment/tcap-alt-fact-sheet.html NOTE:  All students, including Virtual School students, must participate in person.	Student reports provided by State.
March 1-10	iReady Benchmark (District Required)	Grades 4-8, all students	Spring Screener	ELA/Math (45 minutes)	Parent report sent home with each benchmark.
March 1-10	MVPA Benchmark (District Required)	Grades 2-9, all students	Measure progress/standards mastery throughout the year in tested subjects; use for planning instruction	Grades 2-3—ELA only Grades 4-8—Science Grades 6-8—Social Studies Grade 9—English 9, Algebra I (year-long courses only)	Results shared upon request.
March NEED DATES	MVPA Benchmark (District Required)	Grades 9-11	Measure progress/standards mastery throughout the year in tested subjects; use for planning instruction	Grades 9-11—English 10, Algebra I/II, Geometry, Biology (semester/block courses only)	Results shared upon request.
April-May 2023, Dates TBD (state window)	TCAP ACH 2-5 (State required): PAPER BASED	Grades 2-5	Measure student mastery and growth on state standards.	April 19-21:  ELA April 25-26:  Math April 27: Science Grades 3-5: Science For testing times, visit: https://www.tn.gov/education/assessment/testing-times-by-grade-subject.html NOTE:  All students, including Virtual School students, must participate in person.	Quick scores used to calculate final grades, which will count as 15% of a student’s final grade.  Student reports provided by State.
April -May 2023, Dates TBD (state window)	TCAP ACH 6-8 (State required): PAPER BASED	Grades 6-8	Measure student mastery and growth on state standards.	April 19-21:  ELA April 25-26:  Math April 27: Science April 28: Social Studies For testing times, visit: https://www.tn.gov/education/assessment/testing-times-by-grade-subject.html NOTE:  All students, including Virtual School students, must participate in person.	Quick scores used to calculate final grades, which will count as 15% of a student’s final grade.  Student reports provided by State.
April -May, Dates TBD(state window)	TCAP EOC (State required): COMPUTER BASED	Grades 9-11 (Spring Semester Block Courses and Yearlong Courses)	Measure student mastery and growth on state standards.	English 9/10, Algebra I/II, Geometry, Biology   For specific dates, see JCHS Spring Testing Dates   For testing times, visit: https://www.tn.gov/education/assessment/testing-times-by-grade-subject.html NOTE:  All students, including Virtual School students, must participate in person.	Quick scores used to calculate final grades, which will count as 15% of a student’s final grade.  Student reports provided by State.
May 1-12	iReady Benchmark (District Required)	Grades K-3, all students	Spring Screener	ELA/Math (45 minutes)	Parent report sent home with each benchmark.
May 2023 (specific dates TBD)	Advanced Placement Exams (Student Option): COMPUTER BASED	Grades 9-12 AP Classes only	Scoring used for college/university credit based on scores.	For specific courses and dates, see JCHS Spring Testing Schedule	Results shared by College Board.
May 2023 (specific dates TBD)	Statewide Dual Credit Exams (State Required): COMPUTER BASED	Grades 9-12 Various Courses	Scoring used for college/university credit based on scores.	For specific courses and dates, see JCHS Spring Testing Schedule	Results shared by JCHS.

 

*This schedule to be updated as needed with more specific testing dates and/or changes as information becomes available.  A specific schedule detailing high school assessments will also be posted when available.

Dandridge Elementary School                                      

August 5, 2022

 

Dear Parent/Guardian:

 

We have been notified that our school qualifies to receive federal funds under the Every Child Succeeds Act of 2015, Title 1, Part A for the above indicated school year.

Our school is eligible for the following:

Schoolwide Title I Program:  Schools may consolidate and use funds under Title I, together with other federal, state, and local funds, in order to upgrade the entire educational program in schools in which not less that 40% of the children enrolled are from low-income families.

We look forward to your involvement in school activities and your child’s education.  You will receive notices and information throughout the school year to keep you informed about the progress of your child and the status of the school in making progress toward helping all children meet high academic standards.  We also look forward to your attendance at school meetings when we will discuss the development, revision, and implementation of our Schoolwide Program Plan.

You are an important partner in our effort to provide the best education possible for your child.  Please call the school if you have any questions or would like additional information.

 

Sincerely,

Jim Hodge       

Principal                                                                                                                                             

Dandridge Elementary School      

865-397-3127        

jhodge@jcboe.net

Dandridge Elementary School                            

  August 5, 2022

Dear Parent/Guardian:

Our school receives federal funds for Title I programs that are part of the Every Child Succeeds Act of 2015, Title I, Part A.  Throughout the school year, we will continue to provide you with important information about this law and your child’s education.

You have the right to request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s classroom teacher(s).  If you request this information, the district or school will provide you with the following as soon as possible:

1. if the teacher has met state licensing requirements for the grade level and subjects in which the teacher is providing instruction,
2. if state licensing requirements have been waived for the teacher on a temporary basis;
3. the type of college degree and major of the teacher and the field of discipline for any graduate degree or certificate,
4. if your child is receiving Title I services from paraprofessionals and, if so, his/her qualifications.

If you would like to request this information, please contact your child’s school.  Thank you for your interest and involvement in your child’s education.

 

Sincerely,

Jim Hodge        

  Principal                    

Dandridge Elementary School                                                                                                   

865-397-3127        

jhodge@jcboe.net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Upon the determination of a violation, the principal/designee shall conduct a prompt, thorough, and complete investigation of each alleged incident. All investigations shall be completed and appropriate intervention taken within twenty (20) calendar days from the receipt of the initial report.⁷ If the investigation is not complete or intervention has not taken place within twenty (20) calendar days, the principal/designee shall provide the Director of Schools with appropriate documentation detailing the reasons why the investigation has not been completed or the appropriate intervention has not taken place.⁷ Within the parameters of the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act,⁹ a written report on the investigation will be delivered to all involved parties and the Director of Schools.

RESPONSE AND PREVENTION¹⁰

The principal/designee shall consider the nature and circumstances of the incident, the age of the individual, the degree of harm, previous incidences or patterns of behavior, or any other factors, as appropriate, to properly respond to each situation.

A substantiated charge against an employee shall result in disciplinary action up to and including termination. The employee may appeal this decision by contacting the Director of Schools, or designee.

A substantiated charge against a student may result in corrective or disciplinary action up to and including suspension. The student may appeal this decision in accordance with disciplinary policies and procedures.

REPORTS

When a complaint is filed alleging a violation of this policy where there is physical harm or the threat of physical harm to a student or a student's property, the principal/designee of each middle school, junior high school, or high school shall report the findings and any disciplinary actions taken to the Director of Schools and the Chair of the Board.¹¹

By July 1st of each year, the Director of Schools/designee shall prepare a report of all of the bullying cases brought to the attention of school officials during the prior academic year. The report shall also indicate how the cases were resolved and/or the reasons they are still pending. This report shall be presented to the Board at its regular July meeting, and it shall be submitted to the state department of education by August 1st.¹²

RETALIATION AND FALSE ACCUSATIONS

Retaliation against any person who reports or assists in any investigation of an act alleged in this policy is prohibited. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a person who engages in retaliation shall be determined by the principal/designee after consideration of the nature, severity, and circumstances of the act.¹³

False accusations accusing another person of having committed an act prohibited under this policy are prohibited. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a person found to have falsely accused another may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including expulsion.¹⁴

 

Jefferson County Board of Education
Monitoring: Review: Annually, in April	Descriptor Term: Dress Code (K-5)	Descriptor Code: 6.310	Issued Date: 08/01/19
		Rescinds: 6.310	Issued: 03/11/04

 

Students should dress appropriately at all times. Dress should never distract from school activities or prove a hazard to the student's safety or the safety of others. If in the judgment of the school administration, a student is not appropriately attired or exhibits grooming which constitutes a distraction or disturbance to the school environment, the student may be sent home and not be readmitted until he/she is properly attired or groomed.

 

The enforcement of this dress code is the responsibility of the building principal.¹ The director of schools will monitor accountability for enforcement through each principal's performance contract.

 

The following attire is considered inappropriate:

• Hats/bandanas
• Tank tops, jerseys, shirts, blouses, sweaters, or dresses which are inappropriately revealing or suggestive (no spaghetti straps for student’s 3^rd-5^th)
• Jeans with revealing holes above the knee
• Clothing which allows undergarments to be visible when standing or sitting
• Any clothing that has obscene or profane language, depiction of alcoholic beverages or unlawful substances, gang related
• No clothing which exposes the midriff

Shorts are permitted that are appropriate in length and style.

 

The above listing is considered to be a minimum standard. Principals may modify only to the extent that it is a higher standard.

 

 

_________________ ___________________

Legal Reference Cross References

 

1.  TCA 49-6-4215; TCA 49-1-302(2)(j) Discipline Procedures 6.313

Suspension 6.316

 

 

 

Jefferson County Board of Education
Monitoring: Review: Annually, in June	Descriptor Term: Pediculosis (Head Lice)	Descriptor Code: 6.4031	Issued Date: 04/25/13
		Rescinds:	Issued:

 

It shall be the duty of the principal of the school to exclude from school any child who is infested with nits or live lice. The educational program of the students will be restricted only to the extent necessary to minimize the risk of transmitting the infestation.  Therefore, the following policy shall be in effect:

 

1. The principal or designee should notify the parent by telephone upon finding nits or lice and request the student be removed from the school no later than the end of the school day for immediate treatment. If parents are unavailable to pick up students then they may ride school transportation home.

 

2. Parents or guardians picking up students who have been identified with nits or lice shall be shown the infestation evidence and given appropriate information regarding treatment of the child, other family members, and the home environment.

 

3. Upon exclusion, satisfactory evidence must be submitted to school personnel that the student has been treated for pediculosis (head lice). This evidence may include but is not limited to proof of treatment with a pediculocide product, satisfactory exam by a principal, his/her designee, or a school nurse.

 

4. Students that have been cleared of nits or lice will be re-examined in 7 calendar days (or closest school day if 7th day falls on weekend or holiday) by the principal's designee. Students found to have nits or head lice on re-examination will once again be excluded until they are lice free.

 

5. The administration shall take steps to identify appropriate procedures for the control of lice outbreaks including records, personnel training, treatment of students, procedures for handling student clothing and other personal items and appropriate custodial procedures.

 

6. Principals are authorized to provide up to three (3) excused absences (1 excused day per incident) annually for students who have lice infestations.

 

In cases of chronic or recurring nits or lice infestation in a child or family, the principal should refer the family to an appropriate agency which may include one or more of the following: DCS/Juvenile Court/FRC/CIT.

 

7. School personnel will only examine students with symptoms of nits or head lice.  Whole class rooms will not be examined.  Only parents of the affected child will be notified.  Classroom or school wide notifications will NOT be sent out.

 

APPROVAL TO RETURN

 

A student is expected to return to school with proof of having met all requirements for treatment the day following exclusion per incident for nits or head lice. All additional days will be marked unexcused and excessive absences will be referred to the school attendance officer at the proper time according to school policy.

Jefferson County Board of Education

 

Monitoring:  Review: Annually, in December

Descriptor Term:  Use of the Internet

Descriptor Code:  4.406

Issued Date:  01/14/16

 

Rescinds:  4.406

Issued:  11/15/12

 

The Board supports the right of staff and students to have reasonable access to various information formats and believes it incumbent upon staff and students to use this privilege in an appropriate and responsible manner.

Before any employee is allowed use of the district's Internet or intranet access, the employee shall sign a written agreement, developed by the director/designee that sets out the terms and conditions of such use. Any employee who accesses the district's computer system for any purpose agrees to be bound by the terms of that agreement, even if no signed written agreement is on file.

The director of schools shall develop and implement procedures for appropriate Internet use which shall address the following:

1. Development of the Network and Internet Use Agreement.

2. General rules and ethics of Internet access.

3. Guidelines regarding appropriate instruction and oversight of student Internet use.

4. Prohibited and illegal activities, including but not limited to the following:1

• Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures

• Using obscene language

• Harassing, insulting, defaming or attacking others

• Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks

• Hacking or attempting unauthorized access to any computer

• Violation of copyright laws

• Trespassing in another's folders, work or files

• Intentional misuse of resources

• Using another's password or other identifier (impersonation)

• Use of the network for commercial purposes

• Buying or selling on the Internet

5. District staff who have a presence on social networking websites are prohibited from posting data, documents, photographs or inappropriate information that is likely to create a material and substantial disruption of classroom activity.

6. District staff are prohibited from accessing personal social networking sites on school

computers or during school hours except for legitimate educational purposes.

7. The Board discourages district staff from socializing with students on social networking websites. The same relationship, exchange, interaction, information, or behavior that would be unacceptable in a non-technological medium is unacceptable when done through the use of technology.

STUDENTS

The director of schools shall develop and implement procedures for appropriate Internet use by students. Procedures shall address the following:

 

1.  General rules and ethics of Internet use.

             2.  Prohibited or illegal activities, including, but not limited to:

•  Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures

•  Using obscene language

•  Harassing, insulting, defaming or attacking others

•  Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks

•  Hacking or attempting unauthorized access

•  Violation of copyright laws

•  Trespassing in another's folders, work or files

•  Intentional misuse of resources

•  Using another's password or other identifier (impersonation)

•  Use of the network for commercial purposes

•  Buying or selling on the Internet

 

INTERNET SAFETY MEASURES

 

Internet safety measures shall be implemented that effectively address the following:

 

•  Controlling access by students to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide                       Web

•  Safety and security of students when they are using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications

•  Preventing unauthorized access, including "hacking" and other unlawful activities by students on-line

•  Unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information regarding students

•  Restricting students' access to materials harmful to them

 

The director of schools/designee shall establish a process to ensure the district's education technology is not used for purposes prohibited by law or for accessing sexually explicit materials. The process shall include, but not be limited to:

 

•  Utilizing technology that blocks or filters Internet access (for both students and adults) to material that is obscene, child pornography or harmful to students

•  Maintaining and securing a usage log

•  Monitoring on-line activities of students 2

 

The Board shall provide reasonable public notice of, and at least one (1) public hearing or meeting to address and communicate, its Internet safety measures.2

A written parental consent shall be required prior to the student being granted access to electronic media involving district technological resources.  The required permission/agreement form, which shall specify acceptable uses, rules of on-line behavior, access privileges and penalties for policy/procedural violations, must be signed by the parent/legal guardian of minor students (those under 18 years of age) and also by the student. This document shall be executed at kindergarten entry, at 6th grade entry and at 9th grade entry.  It should be kept on file as a legal binding document.  In order to rescind the agreement, the student's parent/guardian ( or the student who is at least 18 years old) must provide the director of schools with a written request.

 

E-MAIL

 

Users with network access shall not utilize district resources to establish electronic mail accounts through third-party providers or any other nonstandard electronic mail system unless used for legitimate educational purposes. All data including e-mail communications stored or transmitted on school system computers shall be monitored. Employees/students have no expectation of  privacy with regard to such data. E-mail correspondence may be a public record under the public records law and may be subject to public inspection.3  Students may establish an email account through state or district approved sites for specific educational assignments monitored by faculty (i.e. college for TN).  Email addresses will be subject to the District's policies in addition to any other terms of service.

 

INTERNET SAFETY INSTRUCTION4

 

Students will be given appropriate instruction in internet safety as a part of any instruction utilizing computer resources.  Parents and students will be provided with material to raise awareness of the dangers posed by the internet and ways in which the internet may be used safely.

 

All students will be educated about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chatrooms, and cyber-bullying awareness and response.

 

• Age appropriate materials will be made available for use across grade levels.

• Training on online safety issues and materials implementation will be made available for administration, staff and families.

 

The training provided will be designed to promote Jefferson County Schools commitment to compliance with the E-rate requirements of the Children's Internet Protection Act ("CIPA").

 

VIOLATIONS

 

Violations of this policy or a procedure promulgated under its authority shall be handled in accordance with the existing disciplinary procedures of this District.

 

BIENNIAL REVIEW

 

The above guidelines will be reviewed and revised as needed biennially.

 

 

______________________ ________________

Legal Reference: Cross References:

 

1.  TCA 39-14-602 Use of Electronic Mail (e-mail)  1.805

2.  47 U.S.C.§ 254; Federal-State Joint Board Web Pages  4.407

          on Universal Service, CC Docket  No. 96-45

          Report and Order (March 30, 2001)

3.  TCA 10-7-512

4.  Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-1-221

 

Upon the determination of a violation, the principal/designee shall conduct a prompt, thorough, and complete investigation of each alleged incident. All investigations shall be completed and appropriate intervention taken within twenty (20) calendar days from the receipt of the initial report.⁷ If the investigation is not complete or intervention has not taken place within twenty (20) calendar days, the principal/designee shall provide the Director of Schools with appropriate documentation detailing the reasons why the investigation has not been completed or the appropriate intervention has not taken place.⁷ Within the parameters of the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act,⁹ a written report on the investigation will be delivered to all involved parties and the Director of Schools.

RESPONSE AND PREVENTION¹⁰

The principal/designee shall consider the nature and circumstances of the incident, the age of the individual, the degree of harm, previous incidences or patterns of behavior, or any other factors, as appropriate, to properly respond to each situation.

A substantiated charge against an employee shall result in disciplinary action up to and including termination. The employee may appeal this decision by contacting the Director of Schools, or designee.

A substantiated charge against a student may result in corrective or disciplinary action up to and including suspension. The student may appeal this decision in accordance with disciplinary policies and procedures.

REPORTS

When a complaint is filed alleging a violation of this policy where there is physical harm or the threat of physical harm to a student or a student's property, the principal/designee of each middle school, junior high school, or high school shall report the findings and any disciplinary actions taken to the Director of Schools and the Chair of the Board.¹¹

By July 1st of each year, the Director of Schools/designee shall prepare a report of all of the bullying cases brought to the attention of school officials during the prior academic year. The report shall also indicate how the cases were resolved and/or the reasons they are still pending. This report shall be presented to the Board at its regular July meeting, and it shall be submitted to the state department of education by August 1st.¹²

RETALIATION AND FALSE ACCUSATIONS

Retaliation against any person who reports or assists in any investigation of an act alleged in this policy is prohibited. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a person who engages in retaliation shall be determined by the principal/designee after consideration of the nature, severity, and circumstances of the act.¹³

False accusations accusing another person of having committed an act prohibited under this policy are prohibited. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a person found to have falsely accused another may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including expulsion.¹⁴