West Elementary School
Student Handbook
2018-2019
Michelle Lewis, Ed.S. Principal
SUCCESS for WEST!!!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome/Handbook Receipt 3
School Calendar 4
General Information/Visiting School 5
Attendance Policies 6
Health Services 7
Admission and Immunization Requirements 8
Medication Policy 8
Cafeteria Programs and Procedures 9
Meningococcal Vaccines Information 10
Code of Conduct 11
School Policies and Procedures 12
Student Loading and Unloading 14
Student Dress Code 15
Bus Conduct 16
Parent Information 17
Student Services 19
Parent and Family Engagement Policy 20
Parental Notification 22
This student handbook is a compilation of the policies, procedures, and
behavioral expectations that are intended to guide and assist students
during the school term. Complete accuracy of information is the intended
goal of this handbook. This handbook however, because of limited space,
does not precisely mimic the printed page of board policy. The school
administration will defer to board policy in all questions arising
concerning policies or procedures contained in this handbook. Please be
aware that as a living document board policy is subject to change. Please
know that your school administration will make every effort to make
students aware of changes if and when they occur.
Welcome!
What a pleasure it is to welcome you back to a new school year at West Elementary. It is truly an honor
for us to work together with such a talented and dedicated faculty, staff, and school community. We
believe in a strong partnership with families, and we urge the entire community to become involved at
West Elementary. Students whose parents get involved in their education do better academically and
socially. They feel more connected to the school and know that they BELONG.
We look forward to this new school year with optimism and excitement. We strive to make our school a
safe and inspiring place in which to learn, while continually improving the academic program for all
students.
On behalf of the faculty and staff of West Elementary School, we welcome you to the 2018-2019 school
year. Please make it a goal to meet new families this year and “join hands” in supporting our children as
they learn and grow.
Sincerely,
Michelle Lewis, Principal
Aiming for Success at WEST!!
Handbook Receipt
Please sign both the top and bottom of this page. By signing you are indicating
that you have read the handbook and reviewed its contents with your child.
I also understand and consent to the responsibilities in the Warren County BOE’s student
behavior policies as reviewed in this handbook. I also understand and agree that my child will
be held accountable for the behavior and consequences written in the discipline policy at
school, school-sponsored events, school-sponsored travel, and for any school related
misconduct, regardless of time or place. I further understand that any student who violates the
school’s behavior rules will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including referral for
criminal prosecution for violations of law.
_X______________________ X________________________/_________
Name of Student Signature of Student Date
_X______________________ X_______________________/_________
Name of Parent Signature of Parent Date
__Michelle Lewis_____ Mrs. Michelle Lewis/__8-8-2018
Name of Principal Signature of Principal Date
2018-2019 Warren County Schools Calendar
August 6, 2018 Registration Day Abbreviated 7:45-9:45 No Buses Abbreviated Day
August 7, 2018 No Students
August 8, 2018 First Day for Students
September 3, 2018 Labor Day (No School)
September 14, 2018 Fair Day (No School)
October 8-12, 2018 Fall Break
November 5, 2018 Parent/Teacher Conference High School 3:00pm-6:00pm
November 6, 2018 Parent/Teacher Conference PreK-5 and Prek-8 Elementary 3:00pm-6:00pm
November 8, 2018 Parent/Teacher Conference Warren Co. Middle School 3:00pm-6:00pm
November 20, 2018 Teacher Professional Development (Stockpiled Day No Students)
November 21-23, 2018 Thanksgiving Break
December 19, 2018 Abbreviated Day 7:45-9:45 (Buses will run)
End of First Semester 86 days + 1 full PD=87 days
December 20, 2018- Holiday Break
January 2, 2019 Holiday Break
January 3, 2019 Teacher Professional Development (No School for Students)(Stockpiled Day)
January 4, 2019 Students Return from Holiday Break
January 21, 2019 Martin Luther King Day (No School)
January 28, 2019 Parent/Teacher Conference Warren Co. Middle School 3:00pm-6:00pm
January 29, 2019 Parent/Teacher Conference High School 3:00pm-6:00pm
January 31, 2019 Parent/Teacher Conference PreK-5 and Prek-8 Elementary 3:00pm-6:00pm
February 18, 2019 Presidents Day (No School)
March 18-22, 2019 Spring Break (No School)
April 19, 2019 Good Friday (No School)
April 10-12, 2019 Pre-K and K Screening West Elementary Gym (Subject to when testing dates are released)
May 13-22, 2019 Kindergarten and 8 th Grade Graduation Window
May 22, 2019 Teacher Professional Development (Stockpiled Day No Students)
May 23, 2019 End of Second Semester 91 days + 2 PD=93 days
Last Day of School (Abbreviated 7:45am-9:45am No Buses)
May 24, 2019 High School Graduation
Report Card Distribution Dates
Q1 Ends October 5, 2018 Report Cards October 22, 2018
Q2 Ends December 19, 2018 Report Cards January 14, 2019
Q3 Ends March 15, 2019 Report Cards April 1, 2019
Q4 Ends May 23, 2019 Report Cards May 23, 2019
General Information
School History
West Elementary was constructed by the J.D. Mullican Construction Company in 1964-65. It
was built on the twelve acre site of the old McMinnville Country Club golf course. Because of its
central location within the city, West Elementary has been involved with city and community
activities. Parents and citizens of our community are always welcomed at West Elementary.
Principals that have served West Elementary are:
Harry Copenhaver 1965-1972
Keith Hollingsworth 1972-1981
John Brock 1981-1985
Bryan Knight 1985-1989
Bob Mason 1989-1990
Troy Jones 1989-2003
Marsha Newman 2003-2013
Michelle Lewis 2013-present day
Grade Levels: Pre-K through Fifth Grade
School Address: 400 Clark Blvd. McMinnville, TN 37110
School Telephone: (931) 473-3801
School Fax: (931) 473-0863
School Website Address: http://www.warrenschools.com/west
School Hours: 7:45am to 2:45pm
West Elementary’s School Pledge
I am a student at West Elementary.
I am somebody!
I am important!
I can make a difference!
Today I will do my best both academically and socially.
I represent myself, my parents, my school,and my community.
I AM somebody!
I AM important!
I WILL make a difference!
School Motto
We all give 100%
Everyone,
Everything,
Everyday!
School Mascot and Colors
We are the Wizards.
Our colors are red, gray, and white.
VISITING THE SCHOOL
Please understand that our utmost concern is for the safety of your child. In order to ensure
everyone’s safety, we appreciate your support in adhering to the following:
ALL VISITORS TO OUR SCHOOL, INCLUDING PARENTS, MUST SIGN IN AND OUT AT THE FRONT OFFICE.
All visitors and parents must be buzzed in at the front entrance. We will check ID at the front
desk with our RAPTOR system. You MUST have an ID when entering the school. For the safety of our
students, if you do not have an ID you will not be allowed to visit our school.
There is a new policy this year for parents/guardians: For the safety of our students,
parents/guests will only be allowed to come eat lunch with their children only on special
days (Thanksgiving lunch, Grandparents day lunch, or student’s birthday) or through
earning a parent pass. Parent lunch passes are earned through volunteering at various
PTO/family night events at the school. Always sign in through the office and receive a Visitor’s
Pass from the RAPTOR system before proceeding to any area in the building.
If parents wish to speak with the teacher, send a note or leave a phone number with the receptionist, and
the teacher will contact you as soon as possible. From 7:45 until 2:45, all of our teachers are with
students and cannot leave their classrooms unattended. We WILL NOT interrupt the instructional day
(unless an extreme emergency occurs).
VOLUNTEERS
We welcome volunteers at West Elementary. Several times a year there will be opportunities for parents
and/or guardians to participate in school-wide activities. Individual teachers may make arrangements in
their classrooms for regular volunteer opportunities as well. All regular volunteers must complete
a volunteer application online and be fingerprinted and drug tested in order to work in a
classroom on a regular basis. Thanks for your understanding and cooperation!
ATTENDANCE
School Hours
● The school day for K-5 students begins at 7:45 a.m. Students must be in the classroom by 7:45.
● Pre-K students start at 8:00 and will be dropped off at the back by the gym and taken directly to their
classroom. PreK should be picked up at 1:00 p.m. in their classroom.
● The school day for grades K-5 ends at 2:45 p.m.
● The building will be open at 7:00 a.m. for bus riders and students wanting breakfast. No child should be
dropped off before 7:00 a.m.
● All other students are encouraged to arrive at school at 7:30 a.m. and should be picked up at 2:45 p.m.
● Extended Day Care students are dismissed to Day Care at 3:00. Afternoon Daycare is available until
6:00p.m.
● Bus riders are dismissed to the bus room beginning at 3:00 with the exception of express buses which load
at 2:40.
Regular attendance is an important factor in the establishment of a good scholastic record. Work missed when
absent from school can be difficult to make up. There is no substitution for actual participation in the daily class
work.
Every student is expected to be in attendance each day unless excused by one of the following:
● the student or a member of his/her immediate family is ill
● a death in the family
● observance of a religious holiday
● Extreme weather conditions, or approved school-related activity.
A student may be excused for the above reasons from attendance, but not from the work required during the
absence. It is the student’s responsibility to complete all make-up work in all subject areas during his/her absence.
Absence for any other reason than those listed above will be unexcused. Students will receive an
incomplete for work missed due to an unexcused absence. The incomplete will be replaced when the work is
completed.
When a student is absent, a note is required. This note is to be presented to the student’s homeroom
teacher within three (3) days of the absence. The note should include the reason(s) for and the date(s) of the
absence. The school may accept a written note from a parent or guardian verifying a student’s illness
for up to a total of 5 accumulated days during the school year. However, if a student is absent due to his or
her personal illness for more than a total of five accumulated days, a doctor’s note specifying inclusive dates for the
illness must be submitted in order for any subsequent illness-related absences to be excused.
Warren County School Board policy states that if and/or when a student commits his/her third unexcused absence a
letter and/or phone call will be sent to the parent or guardian, by the school in which the child is enrolled. If and/or
when a student commits his/her fifth unexcused absence, that student’s name and the facts of such unlawful absence
can be reported to the juvenile authorities.
Truancy Review Board: When a student has more than five (5) unexcused days absent from school, the
principal or attendance clerk may summon that student to appear before the Truancy Review Board. This
appearance counts as one appearance in juvenile court, and attendance by a parent or guardian is required. Students
who are habitually absent will be reported to the juvenile judge who will determine what is best for the child.
(Board Policy JB)
Perfect Attendance: To be eligible for perfect attendance, a student must be in attendance for a length of time
equal to the state’s minimum hourly requirement for a school day. To have perfect attendance a student’s
attendance record must indicate that the actual days absent at the year’s end is .99 or below or less than 420 minutes
away from school for the entire year. Students who sign in late and check out early will accumulate time and when
this time reaches 420 minutes or 7 hours the student will be considered absent one day.
NOTE: Please plan any family vacations over breaks. Vacation taken during regular school session will be
considered unexcused absences. If special circumstances arise, a letter requesting PRIOR approval & listing the
reasons you are making a special request must be turned in to the Principal.
Tardy and Sign Out District Guidelines:
1. 3 tardies or unexcused early dismissals within the same quarter will result in a warning being issued and
the parent notified by the attendance clerk
2. On the 4th tardy or unexcused early dismissal within the same quarter, the student will receive 2 hours of
After School Instruction (ASI) and the parent will be called for a conference at the school
3. On the 5th tardy or unexcused early dismissal within the same quarter, the student will have a mandatory
meeting with the school Principal and/or District Attendance Director and student will be placed on an
attendance contract for the remainder of the quarter and serve ASI (After School Instruction) for 2 hours.
4. Each additional tardy or early sign out after the 4th will result in ASI.
Check In and Out of Office
Any student arriving after 7:45 a.m. or leaving before 2:45 p.m. must check in or out of the office. Parents must
accompany students arriving after 7:45 a.m. to the sign-in office. Warren County School Board Policy
states that elementary students will be permitted to leave school prior to regular dismissal time only in the company
of a parent, legal guardian, school employee, police officer, court officer, or a person designated in writing by the
parent (s). Persons whose names are on the yellow sign-out card must be able to present identification upon request
by the office staff when signing a child out. No one will be allowed to sign a child out of school unless
his/her name is listed on the yellow card.
Emergency Dismissals
There are any number of emergency situations which force the closing of schools. During these times it is often
impossible to get an open phone line. Please have a pre-determined emergency plan for your child that does NOT
include the student having to phone someone. Reviewing this plan with your child periodically will help him/her
feel safe during stressful times. You will receive a “Snow Plan/Early Dismissal” for you and your child to complete
and return to the school for our records. This should eliminate confusion if school is dismissed early. Please notify
the school of any revisions to your plan.
The Director of Schools will use the emergency notification message system by phone or email and will notify local
radio/TV stations to have a school-closing announcement broadcast:
HEALTH SERVICES
If your child has a medical condition that might require special action, please contact the
School Nurse at 473-2530. Examples would be diabetes, asthma, seizures, and severe
allergies with the need for an Epi pen or other emergency treatment. We will assist you in the
communication of those special needs and the appropriate responses at school and on the bus through
an Individualized Health Care Plan.
Throughout the school year please refer to these guidelines as a way to prevent the spread of
communicable disease in the school. A student should be kept home when the following symptoms
persist:
▪ Temperature of 100 degrees or more. Children can return to school when the
temperature has been normal for 24 hours WITHOUT medication.
▪ A dry, hacking or productive cough
▪ Purulent (green, yellow, thick, or unusual) nasal or eye drainage
▪ Diarrhea
▪ Skin rashes or eruptions: such as scabies, chicken pox, or impetigo
▪ Complaints of earache, severe stomachache, severe sore throat, severe headache
▪ Red throat, swollen glands around jaw, ears, or neck
▪ Nausea and Vomiting
▪ Lethargy (general complaint of muscular aches and pain)
▪ Head or body lice must be treated with appropriate medication before returning to
school
(Board Policy JGCBAB)
LICE SCREENING
Screenings take place monthly at school in the classroom setting by the teacher. The school nurse or designee may
check for head lice. Upon return to school after an infestation, that child must be checked individually by the school
nurse before they can return to class. You MUST accompany the child when they come in to be checked.
THE SCHOOL POLICY IS LICE FREE BEFORE RETURNING TO SCHOOL.
Admission and Immunization Requirements
Students entering a Tennessee school for the first time must present a certified certificate of birth, social security
card, an official Tennessee Certificate of Immunization form provided by the Health Department or doctor office,
and provide proof of physical before attending classes. Students entering kindergarten must have reached the age of
5 on or before August 15 of the current school year. Children entering school (k-12) must have the required
immunizations as required by the Tennessee Department of Health of the appropriately documented exemption
form.
If your child meets the qualifications per the TN Department of Health, please present the documentation upon
registration (unless documentation has already been placed in your child’s permanent record). Students will not
be allowed to register without proper documentation.
Medication Policy
STUDENTS ARE NOT TO HAVE ANY FORM OF MEDICATION IN THEIR POSSESSION
with the exception of an Epi pen and inhaler. Students are allowed to carry an inhaler and
Epi once signed in by the parent with the nurse. All other medication must be brought to
and from school by parents, never delivered by students.
We want to encourage you not to send medications to be administered at school. But if that is necessary,
there are specific guidelines we must follow in order to comply with state law. You will find these
guidelines below:
Students required to take prescribed medication must have an “Administration of Medication” form
completed and on file. This form is available from the school nurse or the school and MUST BE
COMPLETED when medication is delivered to the nurse’s office by the parent or guardian of the
student. (Students do not complete the form or transport medication to school.) Medication will be kept
and given to the student at the designated time.
The school is not permitted to administer medication, including aspirin, Tylenol, etc. at the student’s
request. NOTE! Any student possessing, selling, giving, sharing, or misrepresenting any
medication in any form including, but not limited to any type of over-the-counter
medication or health aide (such as vitamins), will be subject to full prosecution under the
Drug Free Schools Act.
No school official or teacher will routinely dispense medication to students except in unique situations in
which a child’s health is dependent upon medical aid. If under exceptional circumstances a child is
required to take oral medication during school hours and the parent cannot be at school to administer
the medication, only the nurse or a designee will administer the medication in compliance with the
following regulations:
The medication must be delivered to the nurse’s office in person by the parent or guardian of the student
unless the medication must be retained by the student for immediate administration (i.e., students with
asthma). All prescription medications must be brought to school in the original unopened container
labeled by the pharmacy to include the following information:
Name of student
Prescription number
Name of medication and dosage
Administration route or other directions
Date
Licensed prescriber’s name
Pharmacy name, address, and phone number
Non-prescription medication may be administered only with the written request and permission of the
parent or guardian. All nonprescription medication must be brought to school in the UNOPENED
manufacturer’s container with ingredients of the product listed on the container, and child’s name
affixed to the container. The medication will be administered in accordance with label directions or
written instructions from the student’s physician.
The administrator/designee will:
●Inform appropriate school personnel of the medication being administered.
● Keep an accurate record of the administration of the medication.
● Keep all medication in a locked cabinet except medication retained by a student per physician’s
order;
● Return unused prescription to the parent or guardian only.
The parent or guardian is responsible for informing the designated official of any change in the student’s
health or change in medication. A copy of this policy shall be provided to a parent or guardian upon
receipt of a request for long-term administration of medication (Board Policy JGCC).
CAFETERIA PROGRAM AND PROCEDURES
LUNCH AND BREAKFAST PROGRAM
We are pleased to announce that we are participating in the Community Eligibility Provision which allows all
students in Warren County Schools to eat breakfast and lunch at no charge enabling them to be better prepared for
learning in the classroom.
The school cafeteria is maintained as a vital part of the health program of the school. The cafeteria now uses
computers to track prepayment for additional items. You may prepay any amount for the cost of these items and it
will be deducted as the student comes through the line. You will be notified when this prepayment is running
low. You may prepay as much and as often as you wish.
A computer system manages transactions. The following information outlines some details in regard to operation:
1. The process works like a bank account system.
2. If a student has money on account, it can be used to purchase additional items.
3. Checks should be made payable to West Elementary cafeteria.
4. Students may also pay cash to purchase additional items.
5. You may also put money into your child’s account through the online process explained below.
MyPaymentsPlus is a state-of-the art online service that offers you the
convenience and information you need to manage your student's meal
account. This system will eliminate the need to send checks to school or
worry about lost or forgotten lunch money. At no cost, MyPaymentPlus
allows any family to:
● Create a free, secured account to manage all of your
student's accounts
● Check your student's current account balance
● Monitor the items your student has been purchasing in
the cafeteria
● Create settings to receive email notifications when the account reaches a low balance
Make a prepayment into your student's meal account using a check, credit card, or debit card at
www.mypaymentsplus.com or by calling 1-877-237-0946. Funds deposited through MyPaymentsPlus are usually
available for student use within a matter of minutes.
Create settings to automatically replenish your student's account when it reaches a low balance.
We strongly encourage all parents (even if you do not prepay for your student's account) to create an account at no
cost through www.mypaymentsplus.com. To create a new account, follow the onscreen directions and register your
student using their social security number (do not use hyphens). For additional information, you may call 931-815-
2832.
Acceptable behavior and good table manners are expected at all times. Students unwilling to use appropriate table
manners may be isolated during lunchtime and receive disciplinary action. Lunch is an important social time for our
students, and we want everyone to enjoy this time!
West Elementary Code of Conduct
The expectations in the Code of Conduct have been established in order to ensure that our
school is a productive and safe place in which learning can occur. Acceptable behavior
and good citizenship are expected from every student, staff member, and visitor at our
school. We ask for your support in helping your child understand and follow all of our
school rules and policies. Our school rules are:
AT West Elementary we experience the MAGIC:
● (M) Make Safe Choices
● (A) Act Responsibly
● (G) Get Ready to Learn
● (I) I am Respectful
● (C) Care About Others
Good behavior will be acknowledged and reinforced with “Magic Money”. Students will have opportunities to earn
“Magic Money” daily. Students may spend their “Magic Money” by purchasing items from the “Magic Money”
cabinet, purchasing tickets for special school-wide events, entering in classroom and school drawings etc.
Students who consistently disregard our rules might not be allowed to participate on field trips, assemblies, or
special days and programs we plan. Teachers make every effort to keep in contact with parents regarding student
behavior. Please help us by always checking your child’s folder/planner for notes from his/her
teacher and make sure we have current phone numbers where you can be reached.
Some examples of conduct resulting in disciplinary action are:
· Abusive Language: Student delivers verbal message that includes swearing or use of words in an inappropriate way.
· Writing, distribution, or possession of obscene materials
· Fighting/Physical Aggression: Student engages in actions involving serious physical contact where injury may occur.
· Overt Defiance: Student uses inappropriate tone with teacher or staff, leaves area without permission, or uses verbal and
physical defiance that interferes with the operation of school.
· Harassment/Tease/Taunt: Student engages in bullying, repeated verbal abuse, threats of physical harm, or harassment due to
race, color, sex religion, national origin, or handicap status any of which makes other students feel sad or scared. (Comments of
violence or personal harm will not be taken lightly and can result in law enforcement action.)
· Forgery/Theft: Student in possession of, having passed on, or being responsible for removing someone else’s property or has
signed a person’s name without that person’s permission.
· Property Damage: Student participates in an activity that results in destruction or disfigurement of property. (Students who
vandalize or destroy school property will be held financially responsible for repair and/or replacement of said property including
labor.)
· Weapons: Student is in possession of knives or guns (real or look alike), or other objects readily capable of causing bodily harm.
When students break the rules or regulations, display inappropriate behavior, disturb, or disrupt the educational
process, corrective measures may take one or several forms depending on Warren County Board Policy and the
severity and/or frequency of misbehavior.
Forms of intervention:
· Verbal reprimand
· Visit with school counselor
· Logical consequences of inappropriate behavior
and/or loss of privilege
· Time out/Isolation in class/Write-off
· Pupil-teacher conference
· Parent notification of the problem (call or note)
· Parent-teacher conference
· Parent-teacher-student conference
· After or before school detention or public service
work around school
· Trip to principal’s office
· Parent called and requested to come pick up
student (Principal)
· Student isolation – supervised study (Principal)
· Suspension: In School/Out of School (Principal)
· Corporal punishment
· Expulsion (School Board)
CONCERNS:
If you have a concern about your student, talk to the teacher FIRST. If you feel the situation has not been resolved,
please call the school office to set up an appointment. In order for the school administration to provide and supervise
the best instructional environment for your child, appointments must be made and followed.
After School Detention
Students may be assigned to detention by an administrator. Their classroom teachers may be asked to assign
students work to do during detention. Your child is responsible for bringing the behavioral report home, and we
expect parents to sign and return the report the next day. Parents are expected to pick up their children at 5:00 p.m.,
after which no adult supervision is provided. Students are expected to serve detention when assigned. Detention is
not planned at student or parent convenience. Failure to serve detention may be considered defiance and result in
separate or additional discipline. The behavioral report is your notification.
SCHOOL BOARD POLICIES AND PROCEDURES BULLYING (REFER TO JCAD BOC POLICY)
Definition of Bullying:
Bullying is any ongoing physical, verbal, or nonverbal mistreatment where there is: an imbalance of power and the
victim (target) is exposed repeatedly to negative actions on the part of one or more other students.
Behaviors associated with Bullying:
Intimidating type of behaviors such as:
Offensive name calling – verbal and written
Aggressive personal contact
Threats– verbal and written
Intimidating body language
Damage, destruction, and theft of property
Invading personal space
Intentional / continual noise making
Intentional exclusion
Students at West Elementary have the right to feel safe at school. The faculty has been trained to intervene in
situations where bullying behavior is suspected. Students who witness bullying are encouraged to report the behavior
and provisions are in place which allow students to do so without fear of retaliation. Allegations of bullying can be
reported to any staff member of the school. The allegations will be investigated by the school counselor/ and or
principal.
Consequences of Bullying (including but not limited to):
▪ Warning – Written form signed by student and parents identifying the occurrence and the formal warning
▪ Counseling session with School Counselor
▪ In-school or out of school suspension
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Sexually harassing behavior toward any student by an employee or another student will not be tolerated. Sexual
harassment is defined as conduct, advances, gestures or words of a sexual nature which:
1. Unreasonably interfere with the students’ work or educational opportunities; or
2. Creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning environment; or
3. Implies that submission to or rejection of such conduct will be used as a basis for determining the student’s
grades and/or participation in a student activity.
Victims of sexual harassment shall report such activities to the appropriate school official. Confidentiality will be
maintained and no reprisals or retaliation will occur as a result of good faith reporting of charges of sexual
harassment. In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, all of the circumstances,
including the nature of the conduct and the context in which the alleged conduct occurred, will be investigated. The
Director shall be responsible for investigating all complaints of sexual harassment. If satisfactory resolution of the
complaint is not reached, the student may appeal the matter to the Director, and ultimately, to the Board. (Board
Policy JCAD)
CHILD NEGLECT AND ABUSE POLICY
According to TCA 37-1-412, anyone having suspicion or information suggesting child abuse/neglect is required to
report to the Department of Children’s Services at 877-237-0004. Students should tell their teacher, guidance
counselor, nurse, or other school employee if they feel they are being neglected, hurt, or abused by someone or if they
know a friend who is neglected or abused.
DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS
Students will not consume, possess, distribute or be under the influence of illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages 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 schools grounds.
Disciplinary sanctions will be imposed on students who violate standards of conduct required by this policy. Such
sanctions will be consistent with local, state and federal laws, up to and including suspension/expulsion as well as
referral for prosecution. Completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program may also be recommended.
Information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation program will be made available through the school
office. (Board Policy JCBC)
INTERROGATIONS AND SEARCHES
If a student is suspected or accused of any offense committed in a school during school hours or on school property at
any time, the principal may interrogate the student, without the presence of parent(s) and without giving the student
constitutional warnings.
Any principal, or designee, having reasonable suspicion because of information received from a teacher, staff
member, or student may search any student, visitor, place, or thing on school property. Lockers and other storage
areas are school property and subject to search.(Board Policy JCAB)
TEXTBOOKS
Each student shall receive all required textbooks at no cost. Textbooks are property of the Board and shall be
returned at the end of the school year, upon completion of the course or upon withdrawal from a course or school.
Parents will be responsible for the textbooks received and used by their children. Students are expected
to return books in the same conditions as received, allowing for wear occurring from normal use. If this text is
abused, damaged, or lost, parents will be required to pay for the text.
(Board Policy IFAA)
STUDENT-TO-STUDENT RELATIONSHIPS
Students shall be provided a safe learning environment. All students are urged to avoid any behavior or actions that
might cause physical, mental, or emotional harm to any other student. West Elementary adheres to a hands-off
policy. All students are to keep their hands to themselves. Public displays of affection, (ex. Kissing and intimate
embraces) are not allowed. It is a violation of this policy for any student to bully, intimidate or create a hostile
educational environment for another student.
TOBACCO
The possession, uses, or transfers of tobacco or tobacco products in any form by any student are strictly prohibited.
Any student caught in the possession of, using, or transferring any tobacco or tobacco product while participating in a
school-sponsored event shall be subject to disciplinary action, which may include corporal punishment, suspension
and/or expulsion. An automatic citation to Juvenile court will be issued in all cases of tobacco
possession according to T.C.A. 39-17-1501.
USE OR POSSESSION OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL BY STUDENTS
Students will not consume, possess, distribute or be under the influence of illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages 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 schools grounds. Disciplinary sanctions will be imposed on students who violate standards of
conduct required by this policy. Such sanctions will be consistent with local, state and federal laws, up to and
including suspension/expulsion as well as referral for prosecution. Completion of an appropriate rehabilitation
program may also be recommended. Information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation program will
be made available through the school office. (Board Policy JCBC)
WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS
Students shall not possess, handle, use, or attempt to use any dangerous weapon on school property, or off the school
grounds at a school-sponsored activity, function or event.
ZERO TOLERANCE
Some school rule violations could result in expulsion under state law. These violations are referred to as “zero
tolerance” violations and are:
● Possession of a firearm/weapons on school property/activity
● Possession/use/sale of drugs on school property/activity
● Battery on staff member
SELLING OF ITEMS
No items are to be brought to school to be sold, unless they are items being sold by this school in a fundraising
activity. No items may be sold for personal profit. All fundraisers will be cleared through administration.
STUDENT LOADING AND UNLOADING
Your child’s safety is our utmost concern. We appreciate your cooperation in morning unloading and afternoon
loading of students.
Student Morning drop off will be in front of building by cafeteria ONLY.
Student Afternoon pick up will be in front of the building with K-2 loading from the sidewalk, and 3-5 loading from
the center circle. Grades 3-5 students with younger siblings MUST load with K-2 students. If your child loads from
the center circle, please use lane closest to the circle. If your child loads from sidewalk, use middle lane or lane closest
to the sidewalk.
***Parents when you drop off your student please make sure that they are in the building before you leave.
PLEASE REMEMBER:
7:00-7:40 is student drop-off time.
Stop for all pedestrians and drive slowly!
Student pick-up is from 2:45-3:00.
With your help we can continue to make West Elementary a safe place for your child! West Elementary does provide
after school child care. But you must be signed up before entering. You cannot call and say send my child to daycare
unless they are signed up already. If an emergency arises, please call the school office so your child will not be
unnecessarily worried. Students not picked up on time will be called and if late pick up continues will be required to
arrange afternoon daycare for their students.
WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURES
Parents/Legal Guardians must come in person to withdraw students for enrollment to another school. Our
attendance clerk will be happy to help parents with the necessary paperwork. Student records cannot be released
until all books are returned or paid for, cafeteria charges are paid, and other financial obligations are met.
CUSTODY ISSUES
Due to questions raised regarding custody issues, we must now require proof of custody in the form of a court order.
We need a copy of the custody papers as soon possible, so we do not violate the order.
EXTENDED DAY CARE PROGRAM
Child care is provided through the Extended School Program offered by the Warren County School System. The
Director of the program is Martha Kirby. She can be reached during the day at 668-8693. The extended day
program is from 2:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The charge for this program depends on the
number of days a child attends and the number of brothers and sisters who also attend. The goal is to provide quality
child care while at the same time encouraging and stimulating the child’s academic, physical, and social growth. The
daycare is located in the playroom on the basement floor of the building. You can enter/exit through the double steel
doors at the front of the playroom. Please check with the day care staff for the times of operation during our breaks,
holidays, and school closings. The phone number for Day Care is 473-5886.
GRADING POLICIES
The Board of Education believes that the issuance of grades serves to promote continuous evaluation of student
progress toward expected learning outcomes, to inform both the student and parent of such progress, and to provide a
basis for bringing about change in a student’s performance, if needed.
Grade reports will be sent home with students at the end of each nine weeks. In addition to these report cards,
progress reports will be sent home in the middle of each grading period to provide parents with information of
importance in the educational process.
Grades K-3 will receive Standards Based Report Cards. This type of report card indicates levels of progress. Grades
2-3 will also receive numerical/letter grades.
Grades 4 and 5 will receive letter and numerical grades that will express the basic grading system for subject area as
follows:
A…93-100
B…85-92
C…75-84
D...70-74
F…69 and below
Grades given at the end of each nine weeks period will be determined from daily work, oral and written assignments
and tests. The teacher may weigh the value of grades for various assignments within the nine-week period. This
procedure will enable the teacher to allow for individual student differences in the grading process.
STUDENT INSURANCE
The Warren County School system has selected Scholastic Insurers as the company to offer accident insurance to the
students of our school. Parents wishing to participate in the insurance plan may obtain an enrollment form from the
office.
STUDENT YELLOW CARDS
In the school office, each student has a personal data form. This way parent information, emergency contact
information and phone numbers are kept easily accessible to school personnel. Should an address or phone
number change, please contact the school IMMEDIATELY so proper changes can be made.
STUDENT DRESS CODE
The following shall not be worn at school or school-sponsored events during school hours.
● Clothing or accessories that denote affiliation with any gang associated with criminal activity, or a safety
hazard or security risk
● Caps or hats, for boys or girls, will not be worn inside buildings
● See-through clothing, or clothes revealing the midriff, back, chest, or shoulders (no spaghetti straps)
● Loose fitting clothing such as saggy/baggy pants
● Spandex or biking shorts are not acceptable as an outer garment
● Clothing with holes above the knee
● Clothing/tattoos with suggestive or inappropriate slogans, vulgar captions, or advertisements for tobacco,
alcohol or drug products
● “Heelie” (skate shoes), light-up shoes, or bedroom slippers or these types shoes may not be worn to school.
Shoes are to be worn at all times.
● Shorts/skirts/dresses will be at least mid-thigh in length.
● All pants will be worn at the waistline. Belts should be fastened.
● No tinted glasses/sunglasses are permitted unless prescribed by a doctor.
● No body piercing jewelry, including spacers, except for earrings in the ear for boys and girls
● Tops, blouses and shirts must fit so as not to reveal the torso or undergarments.
Note :
1. Special dress days may be designated by the principal to include but not limited to, the following examples: field
days; picture days; school spirit days, etc.
2. If a student cannot comply with the standardized dress code because of religious beliefs or physical characteristics,
the parent/guardian must provide a written explanation to the principal for possible relief from certain aspects of this
dress code.
DRESS CODE VIOLATION
Students shall dress and be groomed in a clean, neat and modest manner so as not to distract or interfere with the
educational process or cause a safety hazard. Students are encouraged to adhere to the provisions of this code during
school hours (whether on or off campus) and while in attendance at school sponsored events. An administrator’s
judgment shall prevail in all matters regarding the application of these rules.
Violations may result in the following consequences:
● 1st Violation: The student will receive a verbal warning and the violation may be corrected with clothing on
hand at school, or parent may be contacted to bring appropriate clothing.
● 2nd Violation: Parent will be called, violation must be corrected immediately.
● 3rd Violation: Student may receive in school suspension or other consequence and parent conference will
be held.
PARENT/VISITOR DRESS CODE
We respectfully request that all who enter West Elementary School help us set the example by following the dress
code.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Each class has a specific plan to follow in the event of an emergency such as fire, tornado, bomb threat, or lockdown.
We practice these plans, so our students will know how to react in the event of an actual emergency.
BAD WEATHER
During the school year, school is sometimes canceled due to bad weather. Listen to your radio or TV for information
on school cancellation or delay. Please do not call the school to learn of cancellations... our phones are
incredibly busy on these days, and we need to get pertinent information to our students. If school has been canceled
the previous day, listen to the radio or TV to learn if there is a delay in the school starting time or if schools are on
regular schedule. Often, information about early dismissals is on the radio before individual schools have been
notified by the Central Office.
When school is delayed due to bad weather, teachers are not required to come in early for extra duty. The doors will
be opened 45 minutes prior to the announced time for school to begin
Bus riding is a privilege.
BUS CONDUCT
The school bus is an extension of school activity; therefore, students shall conduct themselves on the bus
in a manner consistent with the established standards for safety and classroom behavior. In order to
maintain conditions and atmosphere suitable for learning, no person shall enter onto a school bus except
students assigned to that bus. Students are assigned a school bus by the transportation supervisor.
Students are under the supervision and control of the bus driver while on his/her bus, and all directions
given by him/her shall be followed. If there is a serious discipline issue, the principal of the student
transported shall be informed by the bus driver and may be called upon to assist if necessary. A student
may be denied the privilege of riding the bus if the administration determines that his/her behavior
causes 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 assigned bus must have written parental permission
and the approval of administration or his/her designee. Students should bring the parental note to the
office first thing in the morning to receive approval and a note from the office to ride the alternate bus.
The student must have the note from the office in order to board the bus.
Students who transfer from bus to bus while in route to and from school shall be expected to abide by the
discipline policies adopted by the Board and rules adopted by the staff of the student’s home school.
Use of Video Cameras
Video cameras are used to monitor student behavior on school buses transporting students to and from
school or extracurricular activities. Video surveillance shall be used only to promote the order, safety, and
security of students, staff, and property.
Bus Rules
1. Cooperate with and obey the driver.
2. Do not use profanity.
3. Your bottom must be in the seat at all times.
4. Use a soft speaking voice…never yell.
5. Do not damage the bus, bus seats, or windows.
6. Keep all belongings and self-inside the bus.
7. Throw nothing out of the bus windows.
8. Do not bring flammable material on the bus.
9. Do not eat or drink on the bus.
10. Possession or use of tobacco or alcohol is illegal.
11. Possession of a weapon is illegal.
12. Remember that the bus stop is an extension of school grounds.
Follow school rules by keeping your hands to yourself at all times.
13. The bus driver is authorized to assign seats.
14. Do not tamper with bus equipment.
15. Have a safe trip.
Discipline Procedures:
1st offense: Written warning
2nd offense: Bus privileges may be denied for 3 days
3rd offense: Bus privileges may be denied for 5 days
4th offense: Bus privileges may be denied for 2 weeks
5th offense: Bus privileges may be denied for 9 weeks
6th offense: Bus privileges may be denied for 1 calendar year
West Elementary will adhere to the policies and procedures that have been set forth by
the Warren County Board of Education. A copy of policy and procedure manuals are
available at the school for viewing.
PARENT INFORMATION
On the First Week of School
The first week of school, we welcome you to walk your child to class. This is an exciting time for everyone! It
is perfectly normal for some of our younger students to become upset at the thought of Mom or Dad leaving. This is
also a stressful time for parents! After the first week, your son or daughter will walk to his or her
classroom with classmates only. The longer the goodbye, the more difficult the separation may be. We promise
to take good care of your most treasured possession!
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
The District-Wide Parent-Teacher Conference Days for West Elementary are scheduled for November 6, 2018, from
3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and January 31,2019, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The conferences are scheduled to facilitate
communication between the school and home. Additional conferences may be arranged when requested by either
parent or teacher. We hope to see ALL parents at conference time.
PARTIES
There are three scheduled party days for the year:
● Halloween: For Halloween, we ask that students choose a favorite book character and dress as
that character. Students should be able to describe the character and the book.
● Christmas: (7:45 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.)
● Easter: Each class may have an Easter Egg Hunt at designated areas on the school grounds.
Valentine’s Day: This is not a scheduled party day but students will be allowed to observe Valentine’s Day. We just
ask that children who choose to bring Valentine Cards be sure and bring a card for every child in his/her class.
Invitations to private parties are not to be passed out in school unless everyone in the class is invited;
either all the boys or all the girls or both. Hurt feelings result when it is obvious that some children are not included
in an invitation. If invitations are only for a select few students, they need to be delivered outside of school.
PARENT – TEACHER ORGANIZATION (PTO)
The PTO offers you the opportunity to work more closely with your child’s teacher, principal,
and school officials in order to provide the best possible education for your child as an
individual. Through the PTO, you will be able to voice your ideas for our school and our school
system. We welcome suggestions for improvements in our children’s education. With your
involvement, the PTO can help make our school system a stronger program. For more
information on officers and meetings for the school year, please visit our school website
http://wes.warrenschools.com/ or follow us on our Facebook page West Elementary School.
We also have two parents that will be representing our school in a Parent Advisory Board with
Mr. Bobby Cox and the Central Office. If you have questions or concerns you would like to share
you can reach Lincoln Talbert at his Warren County School emails. Lincoln Talbert is
talbertl@warrenschools.com. Feel free to contact him at any time.
Some PTO sponsored activities include: chaperoning school dances, helping with school-wide
fundraisers, snack cart, field day activities, and family nights. Also sending items for student
and teacher appreciation days, parent teacher conferences, etc.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
· Student-led assemblies and Celebration assemblies will be held throughout the year.
Teachers will inform parents when their students are involved. Parents and guests are
welcome to attend. (Please come by the office and sign in before going to the gym).
Teachers produce programs to correlate with holidays, special events, and their grade level
curriculum.
· All 4th and 5th grade students have the opportunity to participate in 4-H.
· 4th and 5th grade students have the opportunity to try-out for the Archery Team.
· 5th grade students will have the opportunity to be chosen for membership on the Student
Safety Team. The safety team will assist morning bus room teachers.
· 3rd, 4th and 5th grade students will have the opportunity to try-out for the Basketball Team.
· 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students will have the opportunity to try-out for cheerleading.
· 4th and 5th graders who show a) worthy, moral, and ethical character, b) good mentality, c)
creditable achievement, and d) commendable attitude may be invited to join the Junior Beta
Club.
· Each homeroom class will be responsible for leading the Pledge to the Flag, reciting of
school rules, a moment of silence, and any words of wisdom for one week each school year.
· All students (K-5) participate in P.E., guidance, computer, music, keyboarding, and art
classes.
· The library operates on a schedule. Teachers may work with Librarian to schedule a time to
come and exchange books as needed during available times. Books may be checked out at no
charge for a period of one week. Lost or damaged books must be paid for by the students.
· Academic and Special Activities may include:
▪ Honor Roll
▪ Perfect Attendance
▪ Accelerated Reader Rewards
▪ Field Trips (good behavior required)
▪ Positive Behavior Support Acknowledgement Rewards
▪ Before/After school tutoring
MENTORING “WIZ Kids” Program
At West Elementary we have a mentoring program known as “WIZ Kids”. This program is
designed to provide all students with an additional advocate who will mentor them. This
program meets once a month for about 30 minutes. Students in all grade levels 1st – 5th areassigned a mentor in the building. All staff members including custodians, assistants, teachers,
and office staff serve as mentors during this time. It is a great time for students and staff.
Student Services
RTI2B (Response to Intervention and Behavior)
At the beginning of the school year, students will be screened in both math and reading.
Students that are determined to need support with skill deficits will then begin the West
Elementary RTI program. We will target and support students in the specific area of need.
RTI2B does not replace the special education process if there are suspected disabilities other
than learning disabilities. RTI2B is only a component of eligibility for a specific learning
disability.
SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
If a student participates in the RTI program to the point of educational testing, a special
education teacher, school psychologist, administrator, and the classroom teacher will meet with
parents to determine next steps. An IEP, or Individualized Education Program is written for
each student who qualifies for special education services.
SECTION 504
Section 504 is an Act which prohibits discrimination against persons with a disability in any
program receiving federal financial assistance. The Act defines a person with a disability as
anyone who:
· Has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more major life
activity (major life activities include activities such as caring for one’s self, performing
manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and working);
· Has a record of such impairment;
· Is regarded as having such an impairment.
In order to fulfill its obligation under Section 504, the Warren County School District recognizes
a responsibility to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its Personnel and
students. No discrimination against any person with a disability will knowingly be permitted in
any of the programs and practices in the school system. The school district has specific
responsibilities under the Act, which include the responsibility to identify, evaluate, and if the
child is determined to be eligible under Section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational
services. If the parent or guardian disagrees with the determination made by the professional
staff of the school district, he/she has a right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer.
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) also specifies rights related to
educational records. This Act gives the parent or guardian the right to:
· Inspect and review his/her child’s educational records;
· Make copies of these records;
· Receive a list of all individuals having access to those records;
· Ask for an explanation of any item in the records;
· Ask for an amendment to any report on the grounds that it is inaccurate, misleading, or
violates the child’s rights;
· A hearing on the issue if the school refuses to make the amendment.
If there are questions regarding special education services or 504 plans, please feel free to
contact Candice Willmore, Special Education Supervisor at 931-668-1728.
West Elementary Parent and Family Engagement Plan 2018-2019
In support of strengthening student academic achievement, West Elementary receives Title I,
Part A funds and therefore must jointly develop with, agree on with, and distribute to parents
and family members of participating children a written parent and family engagement policy
that contains information required by section 1116(b) and (c) of the Every Student Succeeds Act
(ESSA). The policy establishes the school’s expectations for parent and family engagement and
describes how the school will implement a number of specific parent and family engagement
activities, and it is incorporated into the school’s plan submitted to the local educational agency
(LEA).
The West Elementary agrees to implement the following requirements as outlined by Section
1116:
Involve families, in an organized, ongoing, and timely way, in the planning, review,
and improvement of programs under Title I, Part A, including the planning, review,
and improvement of the school parent and family engagement policy and the joint
development of the school improvement plan under Section 1114(b) of the Every
Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
Update the school parent and family engagement policy periodically to meet the
changing needs of families and the school, distribute it to the families of participating
children, and make the parent and family engagement policy available to the local
community.
Provide full opportunities, to the extent practicable, for the participation of families
with limited English proficiency, families with disabilities, and families of migratory
children, including providing information and school reports required under Section
1111 of the ESSA in an understandable and uniform format, including alternative
formats upon request and, to the extent practicable, in a language families
understand.
If the school improvement plan under Section 1114(b) of the ESSA is not satisfactory
to the families of participating children, submit any family comments on the plan
when the school makes the plan available to the local educational agency.
Be governed by the following statutory definition of parent and family engagement
and will carry out programs, activities, and procedures in accordance with this
definition:
Parent and Family Engagement means the participation of families in regular,
two-way, and meaningful communication involving student academic learning
and other school activities, including ensuring:
(A) families play an integral role in assisting their child’s learning;
(B) families are encouraged to be actively involved in their child’s education at school;
(C) families are full partners in their child’s education and are included, as appropriate, in
decision-making and on advisory committees to assist in the education of their child; and
(D) other activities are carried out, such as those described in Section 1116 of the ESSA.
JOINTLY DEVELOPED
At West Elementary parents will have access to review the family engagement policy via the
district/school website, and are encouraged to provide feedback by email to administration.
ANNUAL TITLE I MEETING
West Elementary will hold an annual Title I meeting to inform families of the requirements of
Title I and the school’s participation as well as the families’ rights to be involved during our open
house on August 21, 2018. Copies of this plan will be available.
COMMUNICATIONS
The engagement policy will be located in the West Elementary handbook, on the website, and
copies will be available during the annual Title 1 meeting. West Elementary regularly sends
newsletters, parent notes, phone calls, and also updates the website to include information
regarding programming, meetings and other activities. These communications are provided in
Spanish and English.
SCHOOL-PARENT COMPACT
West Elementary provides school-parent compacts outline the shared responsibility for
improving academic achievement and the means by which the school and families will build and
develop a partnership to help children achieve the state’s high standards. Meetings are held each
year to review the Compact and make changes based on student needs.
RESERVATION OF FUNDS
West Elementary will use the parent engagement money allocated through Title 1 funds to
purchase planners that allow communication between families and school
COORDINATION OF SERVICES
West Elementary participates in providing public PreK. West Elementary families have access
to Warren County Schools Family Resource Center, located behind Warren County Middle
School. Referrals to the Family Resource Center may be made by contacting the counselor
BUILDING CAPACITY OF SCHOOL STAFF
West Elementary will communicate with parent’s information regarding content standards,
assessments, and student achievement. Links to Skyward (student attendance, grades, and
discipline) information will be given to parents upon enrollment. A direct link to Skyward
training is available on the district website. Assistance with understanding curriculum,
standards, and academic requirements will be provided bi-annually during Parent/Teacher
Conferences. West Elementary hosts family nights which focus on literacy, math, and STEAM
activities.
PARENTAL NOTIFICATIONS
Parents play a vital role in this mission. The Board encourages the involvement of parents (Policy IFCE) and wants to keep them informed of their rights.
• Warren County School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, or handicap in the provision of educational opportunities,
activities, or other administered programs. Any individual that has a complaint regarding discrimination or harassment should contact Equity & Legal Compliance Coordinator,
Robin Phillips, 2548 Morrison Street, McMinnville, TN 37110 or 931-668-4022.
• Parents have the right to request information about the qualifications of their child’s teacher(s) or paraprofessionals.
Teaching certifications can be found by accessing the Tennessee Department of Education, Teacher Licensing Web Site (www.tn.gov/education/section/licensing) or contacting
the system’s Human Resources Director, Roy Pierce 931-668-4022.
• Parents must receive notification if their child is being taught in a core curriculum subject for 4 or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who is not highly qualified.
• Parents will have access to system/school report cards when released by the State Department of Education and available (usually in late Fall of each year) through their website
(www.tn.gov/education) ,at the school and/or district office.
• Parents will be informed if their child is enrolled in a school identified as focus or priority. The Warren County School System will furnish an explanation of what this means,
academic comparisons with district and state, steps being taken to improve achievement, parent involvement, etc.
• Parents will be informed annually about the availability of supplemental educational services if a school fails to meet adequate yearly progress.
• Parents must receive annual academic results [mid-term reporting periods, end of reporting periods, TCAP Achievement results (grades 3-8), Writing Assessment (grades 5, 8,
11)DELETE, End-of- Course and Gateway Exams DELETE] in a timely manner as required by local Board policy and the Tennessee Department of Education.
• Parents of a student identified as limited English proficient (ELL — English Language Learner) must be notified in a timely manner of their child’s participation in an ESL
Program, details of the program, rights to waive participation, and specific information on the child’s level of English proficiency.
A parental involvement policy is available in the school’s handbook or in individual school’s offices.
Title I Schools: A written parental involvement policy will be developed jointly with and distributed to parents of children participating in Title I Programs. This includes an annual
meeting for parents to inform them of their school’s participation in programs (ex. Title I) funded under the ESEA.
• Schools and parents must be notified of school wide program authority under which schools can consolidate funds from federal, state, and local sources to upgrade the
educational program of the entire school (qualification:
40% of students must be from verified low income families).
• Parents can visit the state’s web site (www.tn.gov/education) or system’s website (www.warrenschools.com) to access a description of the curriculum (Tennessee Curriculum
Standards), assessment, and proficiency levels students are expected to meet.
• Parents have access to district and school information and reports through the media (local newspaper and radio), and the System/School Report Cards available on the State
website or at the system’s administrative offices.
• The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ensures educational rights and protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness. For more information, contact
the school system’s homeless liaison at 668-4022, ext.244 or the State Coordinator for the Education of Homeless Children at 615-770-1793.
• Section 9532 of the NCLB Act shall provide any student who attends a persistently dangerous school, or any student who has been the victim of a violent crime while at
school, the opportunity to attend a safe school. The appropriate paper work and procedure is on file in your principal’s office.
• PPRA (Protection of Pupil Rights) Amendment affords parents and students who are 18 or emancipated minors certain rights concerning our conduct of surveys, collection,
and use of information for marketing purposes, and
certain physical exams. More information is available in the school or central office.
• The School Board Policy relating to student privacy and parental access to information is available in the School Board Policy Manual located at each school and the Central
Office. Notification of Rights and Release or Directory information under FERPA, Family Education Rights and Policy Act, are also available through media announcements.
This Federal law affords parents and students; (over 18 years of age) certain rights with respect to educational records. Parents will be notified of any change in Board policy.
(More information on FERPA is available in school handbooks or at the Central Administrative Office.)
Students and parents; are encouraged to participate in safe and drug-free school programs to prevent student violence and drug use. Parents, however, may request in writing
that their children not participate in such activities.
• School health requirements, policies, and procedures (ex: immunizations, medication at school, etc.) are available from the WCSS Health Services Office (668-5111),
principal, or school nurse.
• Parent/Student Rights in Identification, Evaluation, and Placement—A complete description of the rights granted by federal law to students with disabilities is available by
contacting the Special Education Department of the Warren County School System. The intent of this law is to keep parents fully informed concerning decisions about their child
and to inform them of rights
if they disagree with any of those decisions.
• LEAs receiving assistance under the NCLB Act of 2001 can provide to military recruiters, upon request, with 3 directory information categories – names, addresses, and
telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent.
• CHILD FIND REQUIREMENT UNDER IDEA—Warren County Schools has the responsibility to locate, identify, and evaluate all children ages 3 to 22 years suspected of
having a disability. Any questions or concerns may be directed to the Special Education Director at 668-1728.
Parents should read other valuable notices and information found in their child’s school handbooks rules, policies, health related information, attendance, etc.
Tennessee Department of Education Contact Information
Answers too many questions and much helpful information may be obtained from the State Department of
Education by calling 1-888-212-3162 or visiting www.tn.gov/education.
Legal Services Division, Division of Special Education, Tennessee Department of Education, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Andrew Johnson Tower, 5th Floor, Nashville, TN
37243-0380, Phone: 1-888-212-3162
The ARC of Tennessee is on the Internet at http://www.thearctn.org/ Support and Training for Exceptional Parents (STEP) is on the Internet at http://www.tnstep.org. Middle Tennessee: (615) 463-2310, information@tnstep.org.
Tennessee Protection and Advocacy (TP&A) is on the Internet at http://www.tpainc.org. Tennessee Voices for Children is on the Internet at http://www.tnvoices.org
New Students to our District(not enrolled in one of our schools last year)
Summer Feeding Program Distribution Plan