McNairy Co. Code of Behavior & DisciplineClick on the area you wish to view: The Board believes that acceptable behavior is an essential ingredient of effective educational programs. It expects students to conduct themselves in such a manner as to reflect favorably upon themselves, their families, their community, and their school. The school is a community and the rules and regulations of that school are the laws of that community. Each member enjoying the rights of citizenship in the community must also accept the responsibility of citizenship. School staff, students, and parents must all assume the responsibility to: a) Know and adhere to rules and regulations established by the Board of Education and the local schools and implemented by school administrators and teachers; b) Respect the human dignity and worth of every other individual; c) Study diligently and maintain the best possible level of academic achievement; d) Be punctual and present in the regular school program; e) Help maintain and improve the school environment, preserver school and private property, and exercise care while using school facilities; and f) Refrain from disobediences or misconduct or behavior which would lead to any physical or emotional harm or that disrupts the educational process. A student shall not by use of violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or any other conduct cause the disruption, interference, or obstruction of any school vehicles or buses, or at any school-sponsored activity, function or event, whether on or off campus. Neither shall he urge other students to engage in such conduct which causes disruption, interference, or obstruction of any school purpose. A copy of the Code of Behavior and Discipline shall be posted at each school and a copy of the Code and each applicable school code shall be placed in the library and principal's office at each school as a notice to the students, teachers, and administrative staff of their duties and responsibilities. The Superintendent shall be responsible for the overall implementation and supervision of the Board's Code of Behavior and Discipline. He shall ensure that students at all schools are subject to a uniform and fair application of the Code. The principal of each school shall be responsible for implementation and administration within his school. He shall apply the Code uniformly and fairly to each student at the school without partiality and discrimination. The principal may delegate to the assistant principal/acting principal his responsibility for discipline matters. The Board delegates to the Superintendent the responsibility of developing more specific codes of behavior and discipline which are appropriate for each level of school, namely, elementary, middle, junior high, and senior high. The development of each code should involve principals and faculty members of each level of school and shall be consistent with the content of the Board's Code. The school staff is expected to ensure student conduct which allows for an acceptable learning atmosphere both in and outside the classroom and to help students develop self-discipline and self-direction. To this end, the staff is authorized to take reasonable measures in compliance with the Board policy to establish appropriate school behavior. Any employee shall have and exercise the authority to control student conduct while the student is under the supervision of the school district. This authority to control student conduct shall extend to all activities of the school, including all games and public performances of athletic teams and other school groups, trips, excursions, and all other activities under school sponsorship and direction. It is the duty of all teachers to assist in the discipline of the total school. The following levels of misbehavior and disciplinary procedures and options are designed to protect all members of the educational community in the exercise of their rights and duties. A student found guilty of misbehavior, including but not limited to a violation of any one of these behavior, may receive punishment which may range from verbal reprimand to suspension and/or expulsion depending upon the severity of the offense and the offender's prior record. STEPS OF PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS BEFORE SCHOOL AUTHORITIES SHALL ADMINISTER DISCIPLINARY MEASURES, REASONABLE INQUIRY SHALL BE MADE TO DETERMINE THE TRUTH OF WHAT HAPPENED. THE NATURE OF THIS INQUIRY WILL VARY IN DEGREE WITH THE SEVERITY OF THE OFFENSE AND THE CONSEQUENCE ATTACHED THERETO. FOR MINOR OFFENSES WHERE CORRECTIVE MEASURES ARE TAKEN BY THE CLASSROOM TEACHER, NO FORMAL PROCEDURE IS REQUIRED. SUFFICIENT INQUIRY INTO THE INCIDENT SHOULD INCLUDE: A) ENSURANCE THAT THE OFFENDER IS ACCURATELY IDENTIFIED; B) THAT HE UNDERSTANDS THE NATURE OF THE OFFENSE; and C) THAT HE WAS ON NOTICE TO THE CONSEQUENCES TO WHICH HE IS SUBJECT FOR THE OFFENSE. IN CASE OF SEVERE OFFENSES WHERE THERE IS A POSSIBILITY OF SUSPENSION, THE STUDENT SHALL BE: A) ADVISED OF THE NATURE OF HIS MISCONDUCT; B) QUESTIONED ABOUT IT; and C) ALLOWED TO GIVE AN EXPLANATION. MISBEHAVIORS Minor misbehaviors on the part of the student which impede orderly classroom procedures or interfere with the operation of the school, but which can usually be handled by an individual staff member. EXAMPLES (not an exclusive listing): Abusive language Annoying to others: Verbal - arguing, name calling, etc. Physical - pushing, shoving, tripping, thumping, etc. Depriving or attempting to deprive others of use of school building/property Disrespectful or uncooperative behavior Disruptive or uncooperative behavior Failure to carry out directions Leaving campus without permission Lying Obscene gestures School/classroom tardiness Violation of dress code DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES 1. Investigation conducted following STEPS OF PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS. 2. Employ appropriate disciplinary option or refer to principal. 3. Properly document and maintain record of offense and disciplinary option taken. DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS (not an exclusive listing): Teacher Options Assigning work details Behavior modification Corporal punishment Conference with student Detention Issuance of demerits which might affect citizenship or deportment grades Referral to counselor Restriction of privileges Special assignment Strict supervised study Time-out area Verbal reprimand Withdrawal of privileges Principal Options Any teacher option In-school suspension not to exceed ten (10) days Modified day (Student shall not be allowed to complete any academic work missed, and shall receive a zero (0) for said work.) Out-of-School suspension not to exceed ten (10) days. MISBEHAVIORS Minor misbehaviors on the part of the student which impede orderly classroom procedures or interfere with the operation of the school, but which can usually be handed by an individual staff member. EXAMPLES (not an exclusive listing): Continuation of unmodified Level I behaviors School/class truancy Use and possession of tobacco/tobacco products Using forged notes or excuses DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES 1. Student referred to the principal. 2. Investigation conducted following STEPS OF PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS. 3. Principal employs appropriate disciplinary option and notifies teacher of option taken. 4. Principal properly documents and maintains record of offense and disciplinary option taken.
DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS (not an exclusive listing): Any disciplinary option from previous level Referral to outside agency Schedule change Social probation Teacher change Transfer MISBEHAVIORS Included in this level are unmodified Level I and Level II misbehaviors and acts directly against persons or property, but whose consequences do not seriously endanger the health or safety of others in the school. EXAMPLES (not an exclusive listing): Continuation of unmodified Level I and/or Level II behavior Fighting or attempting to cause injury Stealing or attempting to steal Threats to others Vandalism/attempted vandalism DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES 1. Student referred to the principal. 2. Investigation conducted following STEPS OF PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS. 3. Principal employs appropriate disciplinary option or may refer incident and recommendations to superintendent for employment of appropriate disciplinary option. 4. Principal/superintendent properly documents and maintains record of offense and disciplinary option taken. DISCIPLINARY OPTION (not an exclusive listing): Any disciplinary option from previous levels Alternative School Program Long term out-of-school suspension Restitution for lost, damaged or stolen property Included in this level are unmodified Level I, II and III misbehaviors and acts which result in violence to another's person or property or which pose a threat to the safety of others in the school. These acts are so serious that they usually require administrative actions which result with the immediate removal of the student from the school, the intervention of law enforcement authorities and action by the school board. EXAMPLES (not an exclusive listing): Arson Assault/battery Bomb threat Continuation of unmodified Level I, II and/or III behaviors Extortion Possession/use/transfer of dangerous weapons/explosives Possession/use/transfer/selling/furnishing of unauthorized/illegal substances and/or drug paraphernalia Theft/possession/sale of stolen property Vandalism DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES 1. Student referred to principal. 2. Investigation conducted following STEPS OF PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS. 3. Reasonable attempt made to notify parents. 4. Law enforcement officials contacted if deemed necessary. 5. Principal employs appropriate disciplinary option or may refer incident and recommendations to superintendent for employment of appropriate disciplinary option. 6. If deemed necessary, student is given hearing before Disciplinary Hearing Authority/Board. 7. Record of offense and disciplinary option taken properly documented and maintained. DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS (not an exclusive listing): Any disciplinary option from previous levels Expulsion Other Hearing Authority or Board action as deemed necessary APPEALS PROCESS In most cases, it is most desirable for a student and/or his parent or guardian and the involved teacher to resolve problems through free and informal communications. If however, the informal process is not chosen by or fails to satisfy either party, that party shall proceed immediately with the complaint or grievance by adhering to the following steps of appeals process: STEP 1: PRINCIPAL STEP 2: SUPERINTENDENT STEP 3: DISCIPLINARY HEARING AUTHORITY/BOARD OF EDUCATION Any principal, assistant principal, or teacher may use corporal punishment in a reasonable manner against any pupil for good cause in order to maintain discipline and order within schools in accordance with the following guidelines. 1. Corporal punishment will be administered in compliance with Board policy "Code of Behavior and Discipline." 2. The instrument to be used in administering corporal punishment will be a wooden paddle. 3. Corporal punishment should be reasonable. 4. Corporal punishment shall be administered in the presence of another professional employee, and the student should be told in front of the witness the reason for the punishment. 5. In determining the use and degree of corporal punishment, consideration will be given to the age, sex, size, physical and emotional condition of the child, and the gravity of the offense. 6. The number of licks inflicted should not exceed three (3), and should be applied on the buttocks. 7. Corporal punishment should not be administered in anger or with malice. 8. The building principal may require that all corporal punishment be administered through his office. 9. A student may be given a choice of either corporal punishment or another disciplinary measure that the teacher or principal deems appropriate. Corporal punishment is not to be confused with self-defense upon the part of a teacher or principal. Self-defense may take whatever form is necessary and appropriate. The use of physical force to seat a student, to remove a disruptive student from class, or to separate students involved in a fight is not to be construed as corporal punishment. All cases of corporal punishment shall be reported to the principal in writing. This disciplinary record shall be maintained and shall contain the name of the student, the type of misconduct, the type of corporal punishment administered, the name of the person administering the punishment, the name(s) of witness(es) present and the date of punishment. Principals are to enforce this regulation literally. A copy of this report shall remain in the office of the principal for three (3) years. STUDENT SUSPENSIONS Any principal is authorized to suspend a pupil from attendance at school, including any school related activity on or off campus, or from riding a school bus for good and sufficient reasons. Good and sufficient reasons for such suspension may include, but shall not be limited to: 1. Willful and persistent violation of the rules of the school or truancy; 2. Immoral or disreputable conduct or vulgar or profane language; 3. Willful or malicious damage to real or personal property of the school, or the property of any person attending or assigned to the school; 4. Violence or threatened violence against the person of any personnel attending or assigned to the school; 5. Inciting, advising, or counseling of others to engage in any of the acts hereinbefore enumerated; 6. Marking, defacing or destroying school property; 7. Possession of a pistol, gun or firearm on school property; 8. Possession of a knife, etc., as defined in TCA 39-6-1701 on school property; 9. Assaulting a principal or teacher with vulgar, obscene or threatening language; 10. Unlawful use or possession of barbitual or legend drugs or drug paraphernalia as defined in TCA 53-10-101; or 11. Any other conduct prejudicial to good order or discipline in any school. Any principal may suspend any pupil from attendance at a specific class, classes, or school sponsored activity without suspending such pupil from attendance at school for good and sufficient reasons. Good and sufficient reasons for such in-school suspension shall include, but not be limited to: 1. Behavior which adversely affects the safety and well-being of other pupils; 2. Behavior which disrupts a class or school sponsored activity; or 3. Behavior prejudicial to good order and discipline occurring in class, during school sponsored activities or on the school campus.
II. PROCEDURES FOR SUSPENSIONS:
The principal of the school is responsible for determining if a violation of Board policy or school rules and regulations has occurred and for determining appropriate disciplinary actions. The principal may delegate to the assistant principal/acting principal the responsibility for discipline matters. If information is brought to the attention of the principal indicating that a violation of Board policy or school rules and regulations has occurred, or is occurring, the principal will proceed in the disciplinary decision making process in accordance with minimum standards as stated in Board policy. The information brought to the attention of the principal to begin the disciplinary process may be of any type, written or oral, and may be from any source, including the principal's personal knowledge. Unless the student's continued presence in school, class, or school related activity presents an immediate danger to the student or other persons or property, no principal shall suspend any student until that student has been: 1. ADVISED OF THE NATURE OF HIS MISCONDUCT; 2. QUESTIONED ABOUT IT; and 3. ALLOWED TO GIVE AN EXPLANATION. No request for an appeal taken under this policy shall have the effect of staying, postponing, or otherwise delaying the effective date of the suspension imposed. The term 'day' shall be any school day in which school is in session. Students given an in-school suspension in excess of one (1) day from classes shall attend either special classes attended only by students guilty of misconduct or placed in an isolated area appropriate for study. Student given an in-school suspension in excess of one (1) day shall be required to complete academic requirements. In the event the suspension occurs during the last ten (10) days of any term or semester, the student may be permitted to take such final examinations or submit such required work as necessary to complete the course of instruction for that semester, subject to conditions prescribed by the principal. Students under suspension from one school in the system cannot enter another school in the system. In suspensions regarding students defined in TCA 49-10-102 as "handicapped", reference will be made to P.L. 94-142 and Section 504.
(SHORT TERM SUSPENSION) When information received by the principal indicated that an offense or violation has been committed and the student involved, which, if proven, in the judgment of the principal, justifies a suspension of the student for ten (10) days or less, a hearing between the principal and the student will be held in accordance with the following minimum standards. The hearing shall not be governed by formalized rules of evidence or procedure, but will be conducted in a manner that insures fair opportunity for all parties to be heard.
a) the violation and b) the substance of the information which supports the finding of a violation by the student.
a) the suspension; b) the cause of the suspension; and c) the conditions for readmission which may include a request for a meeting with the parent or guardian, student or principal. A copy of the completed discipline form "Notice of Suspension" shall serve as notification. 7. If the principal determines the length of the suspension to be between six (6) and the maximum of ten (10) days, the principal shall implement a plan for improving the behavior when the student returns to school. This plan shall be made available for review to the superintendent upon request. 8. An appeal of the principal's decision may be made by the parent or student. The appeal shall be made by notifying the principal in writing within three (3) school days of the principal's decision.
(LONG TERM SUSPENSION) If in the judgment of the principal, it is determined that an offense has been committed which justifies a suspension of more than ten (10) days, he shall refer the case by way of the superintendent or his designee to the Disciplinary Hearing Authority. Pending the hearing of the Disciplinary Hearing Authority, the student shall be under suspension. DISCIPLINARY HEARING AUTHORITY
a) order removal of the suspension unconditionally; b) order removal of the suspension upon such terms and conditions as it deems reasonable; c) assign the student to an alternative program; d) assign the student to a night school; or e) suspend the student for a specified period of time.
a) affirm the decision of the Disciplinary Hearing Authority, with or without a Board hearing; b) modify the decision to a lesser penalty, with or without a Board hearing; or c) grant a hearing before the Board. BOARD OF EDUCATION
a) affirm the decision of the Disciplinary Hearing Authority; or b) modify the decision of the Disciplinary Hearing Authority in any manner, including imposing a more severe penalty than that of the Disciplinary Hearing Authority.
No student shall possess, use, sell, purchase, barter, transmit or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana or any other controlled substance, any alcoholic beverage, malt beverage or fortified wine or other intoxicating liquor, counterfeit drug, drug paraphernalia, or any other chemical or product with the intention of bringing about a state of exhilaration or euphoria or of otherwise altering the student's mood or behavior. Counterfeit drugs include any substance represented to be or substantially similar in color, shape, size or markings to a controlled substance. This policy shall apply to all students at any time before, during and after school hours including, but not limited to at school, in any school building or on any school premises; in any school-owned vehicle or in any other school-approved activities; off school property at any school-sponsored or school-approved activity, event of function; and during any period of time when students are subject to the authority of school personnel. This policy shall not apply to the proper possession and use of prescription medication. However, students who are taking a prescription medication must notify the principal that he has possession of said medication and is taking it at prescribed times. In addition, students are prohibited from transmitting any medication (prescription or non-prescription) to other students. Any person upon suspicion that a student is in violation of this policy shall immediately notify the principal/designee. After inquiry, if the principal/designee determines that student has violated this policy, he will make reasonable attempt to notify the student's parent or guardian, shall notify the appropriate law enforcement officials, and take appropriate disciplinary action in compliance with Board policy "Code of Behavior and Discipline". Students shall neither use, nor have in their possession, tobacco products in any form on school premises or on school buses during school hours. "School hours" shall include the period of time beginning with the first bus pickup (or arrival of car riders) in the morning and ending with the last bus drop in the afternoon. Students participating in educational projects, extracurricular functions such as, but not limited to club meetings, athletic practice sessions/events, band practice/events, and other school sponsored activities on or off campus shall adhere to this policy. Violation of this policy shall result in the school principal or his designee taking appropriate disciplinary action in compliance with board policy "Code of Behavior and Discipline". Further offenses shall be considered as unmodified behavior. INTERROGATIONS AND SEARCHES INTERROGATIONS Students may be questioned by any teacher or administrator about any matter pertaining to the operation of the school and/or enforcement of its rules. Questioning should be conducted discreetly and under circumstances which avoid unnecessary embarrassment to the person being questioned. No student has the right to answer falsely, evasively, or to refuse to answer any question by any one in authority over him. Any student answering falsely, evasively, or refusing to answer a question may be subject to disciplinary action including suspension. If a student is suspected or accused of any matter or incident committed in a school during school hours or on school property at any time, the principal/designee may interrogate the student without the presence of parent(s) of the student and without giving the student constitutional warnings. If the principal has requested assistance by the police department to investigate a crime involving the school, the police shall have the permission to interrogate a student suspect in school during school hours. The principal shall first attempt to notify the parent(s) of the students of the intended interrogation, but the interrogation may proceed if the parent is unavailable or unwilling to attend. The principal or his designee shall be present during the interrogation.
SEARCHES A. SEARCH OF LOCKERS When individual circumstances in a school dictate it, a principal may order that lockers or other enclosures used for storage by students, and other areas accessible to students be searched in his presence or in the presence of other members of his staff. Individual circumstances requiring a search may include incidents on school property, including school buses or vehicles, involving but not limited to the use/possession of dangerous weapons, drugs, or drug paraphernalia by students which are known to the principal or other staff members, information received from law enforcement, juvenile or other authorities indicating a pattern of drug dealing or drug use by students, any assault or attempted assault on school property with dangerous weapons, or any other actions or incidents known by the principal which give reasonable cause that drugs, drug paraphernalia or dangerous weapons are held on school property by one or more students. The students using a locker, desk or other storage area that is the property of the school system has no right of privacy against the school and its officials in that locker, desk, or other storage area or their contents. All lockers and other storage areas provided for student use on school premises remain the property of the school system and are provided for use of students subject to inspection and/or access for maintenance and search. This policy shall serve as notice that lockers, desks, and other storage areas may be searched by school authorities at any time without prior notification. The principal/designee shall also have the right to give permission to the police to search said areas. B. SEARCH OF VEHICLES A principal/designee or both such persons may search any vehicle parked or otherwise located on school property if there is probable cause to believe that the vehicle contains a dangerous weapon, drug or drug paraphernalia or contains evidence of a violation of school rules or regulations which endangers or has endangered the health or safety of any member of the student body or school staff. C. SEARCH OF PERSONS AND/OR THEIR PRIVATE PROPERTY A student may be subject to physical search or a student's pockets, purse, or other container may be required to be emptied because of the results of a locker search, or because of information received from a teacher, staff member, or student if such action is reasonable to the principal. (In cases of physical search, the physical search must be conducted privately by a person of the same sex with a professional employee present.) All of the following standards of reasonableness shall be met: 1. A particular student is suspected of having violated a school policy; 2. It is suspected that the search will yield evidence of the violation of school policy or will lead to disclosure of a dangerous weapon or drug; 3. The search is in pursuit of legitimate interests of the school in maintaining order, discipline, safety, supervision and education of students; and 4. The search is not conducted for the sole purpose of discovering evidence to be used in a criminal prosecution. D. If public health or safety is involved, upon request of the principal who shall be present, police officers may take a general search of student's lockers and desks, or student's or non-student's automobiles for drugs, drug paraphernalia, weapons, or items of an illegal or prohibited nature.
E. Any evidence seized in a search may be used against a student. WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS Students shall not at any time, possess, handle, transmit, use or attempt to use any dangerous weapon in school buildings, on school ground, in school vehicles or buses, or at any school sponsored activity, function, or event whether on or off school grounds. Students are further forbidden to use any instrumentality or substances such as chemicals, pencils, scissors, razors, or compasses when they are used or attempted to be used in a manner which renders the item dangerous or with the intent to do harm. Students who violate this policy shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion. Upon information that a student is suspected of violating this policy, the principal of the school shall be notified immediately. The principal shall notify the student's parent or guardian, and the appropriate law enforcement officials as required by law. After inquiry and obtaining the facts of the accusations, the principal shall take appropriate action in compliance with Board policy "Code of Discipline and Behavior." Students are expected to maintain the school environment, preserve school property and exercise care while using school facilities. Students who destroy, damage or lose school property shall be subject to disciplinary action in compliance with Board policy "Code of Behavior and Discipline" and shall be responsible for the cost of replacing or repairing such materials or equipment. School property is defined as buildings, buses, books, equipment, records, instructional materials, or any other item under the jurisdiction of the Board of Education. Students shall dress and groom in a clean, neat, and modest manner so as not to distract or interfere with the operation of the school. More specific guidelines appropriate for each type of school (elementary, middle, junior high and senior high) may be developed. Principals, faculty members, student, and parents should be involved in the development of each appropriate set of guidelines. When a student is attired in a manner which is likely to cause disruption or interference with the operation of the school, the principal or his designee shall take appropriate disciplinary action in compliance with Board policy "Code of Behavior and Discipline." In the case of a student assault on a teacher, self-defense may take whatever form is necessary and appropriate to protect oneself. A teacher may use physical force to seat a student or to separate a student or students involved in an assault on a teacher. A student's designated school shall be defined as a school in which the student initially enrolls and is in attendance for five (5) days. Board approval is necessary for student transfer to another school from a student's designated school except in the case of change of residence to another school zone. The Board delegates to the superintendent the authority to give such approval. Before giving said approval, the superintendent will consult with the involved principals. The school system shall not be responsible for providing transportation for those students attending a school which is outside the attendance zone in which the student lives. ATTENDANCE - GRADES K-8 EXCLUDING GRADES 7 & 8 AT ADAMSVILLE JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH Punctuality and regular attendance are essential ingredients for a member of the working force to succeed. They are equally important for a student to achieve succeed. They are equally important for a student to achieve success in school. It has been proven that one of the most common causes of failure in school is poor and irregular attendance. Recognizing this to be the case, the McNairy County Board of Education has adopted the following rules and regulations concerning student attendance. Students are expected to be in school on a daily basis. It is the parents'/guardians' responsibility to contact the school when there is absent. This contact should be made the day that the child is absent. When the students return to school, they are responsible for all work missed during their absence. (EXCEPTION: In case of suspensions and/or modified day - see Board policies "Code of Behavior and Discipline" and "Student Suspensions"). Students MUST contact the teacher for make-up work. Make-up work must be completed and turned in by the end of second day after the student returns to school. In case of consecutive days absent, one day per each day absent may be added to the allowed time for make-up work to be turned in. Any work not made up will receive a grade of zero (0). Students who are absent for a total of 5 (five) aggregate days or who are habitually absent will be referred to the attendance officer. Such notification may result in a hearing in Juvenile Court before the juvenile judge. Students who are excessively absent may be retained according to Board policy "Promotion and Retention". More specific rules and regulations regarding attendance which are appropriate for each school may be made at the individual school level. This Attendance Policy does not apply to student certified as special education student except to the extent allowable under Federal and State law. ATTENDANCE - GRADE 9-12 INCLUDING GRADES 7&8 AT ADAMSVILLE JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL Punctuality and regular attendance are essential ingredients for a member of the working force to succeed. They are equally important for a student to achieve success in school. It has been proven that one of the most common causes of failure in school is poor or irregular attendance. Recognizing this is to be the case, the McNairy County Board of Education has adopted the following rules and regulations concerning the number of days a student may be absent from school and be promoted to the next grade and/or receive credit toward graduation. Students are expected to be in school on a daily basis. It is the parents'/guardians' responsibility to contact the school by phone when their child is not in school. The call should be made the day the student is absent. Students will not receive excused or unexcused absences by the local school office. When the students return to school, they are responsible for all work missed during their absence. (EXCEPTION: In case of suspension and/or modified day, see Board policies "Code of Behavior and Discipline" and "Student Suspensions"). Students MUST contact the teacher for make-up work. Make-up work must be made up and turned in by the end of the second day after the student returns to school. In case of consecutive days absent, then one day per each day absent may be added to the allowed time for the make-up work to be turned in. NINE WEEKS/MID-TERM/FINAL EXAMS There will be excused/unexcused absences for nine weeks/mid-term/final exams. The principal or his designee at each school will determine the type of absence. All unexcused absences will result in a grade of zero (0) for the test. Excused absence on the nine weeks/mid-term/final exams: 1. Death in immediate family, 2. Subpoenaed court appearance (School officials MUST have documentation). 3. Personal illness (A signed statement from doctor with date and time of visit is required), 4. Hospitilization, 5. Recognized religious holidays, 6. Other - Reason MUST be cleared and approved by the principal PRIOR to the absence. REQUIREMENTS FOR RECEIVING CREDIT In order to receive credit, for any coursework, a student must have a passing grade and be present a minimum of 172 school days. Any student absence for more than 8 (eight) aggregate days will not receive credit for any coursework taken. Students who are involved in school-sponsored activities will be considered present in all classes missed. Students who are late because of buses will also be considered present in classes missed. Students who miss more than the specified number of days (8 aggregate days per year) will be given the opportunity to make up work either after school or on Saturday (option of the school). If a student or parent feels extenuating circumstances exist, they may ask the principal to consider their case as a hardship case. The principal may grant additional days for hardship cases. Once the days have been made up, the students will receive credit if they are passing. Students will make up equivalent time for all absences that exceed the limit. All make-up time MUST be completed by the last day of school unless prearranged by the principal. Parents will be notified by letter from the school after 8 (eight) aggregate days absence. Each school will develop an incentive program for students. This must be approved by the Board of Education. Also, each individual school will develop an attendance committee that will hear parents who choose the right of appeal in regard to the attendance policy. This Attendance Policy does not apply to student certified as special education student except to the extent allowable under Federal and State law.
The Board believes that the issuance of grades serves to promote continuous evaluation of student performance, to inform the student and his parents of the student's performance, and to provide a basis for bringing about change, when necessary, in student performance. GRADES K-2 The basic grading system for Grades K-2 shall be: S……..Satisfactory Performance N…….Performance in Need of Improvement A percentage grading system shall not be used in Grades K-2. GRADE 3: The basic grading system for Grade 3 in Science, Social Studies, Health and Safety, Handwriting, Music, Art, and Physical Education shall be the same as the basic grading system for Grades 4-12. The basic grading system for Grade 3 in Reading, English, Spelling and Math shall be the same as the basic grading system for Grades 4-12. GRADES 4-12: The basic grading system for Grades 4-12 shall be: A…………..100-93 B………….. 92-85 C………….. 84-75 D………….. 74-70 F………….. Below 70 CITIZENSHIP: Citizenship grades are based on behavior and should not be deducted from scholastic grades. Citizenship shall be marked as follows: Good Fair Poor INCOMPLETED ASSIGNMENTS: The student is responsible for completing all work missed during absences. (EXCEPTIONS: In case of modified day and/or suspension, see Board Policies "Code of Behavior and Discipline" and "Student Suspensions"). It is the responsibility of the student to contact the teacher(s) in order to obtain required assignment(s) missed during absences. The work of a student whose grades are satisfactory, but are withheld because of failure to complete the required work shall be reported as incomplete "I". If the incomplete is not removed within the following nine weeks period, it will then become an "F". Also, if the incomplete is not removed between the time school is out in the spring and the time school begins in the fall, the incomplete "I" will become an "F". DELIVERY OF GIFTS TO THE SCHOOL Delivery to the schools of personal gifts to students shall comply with the following criteria: 1. Containers of gifts (flowers, etc.) shall be made of rubberized plastic or paper. Glass containers and balloons shall be prohibited. 2. Size of gifts shall not exceed eighteen inches (18") in height or width. 3. Deliveries shall not be made earlier than 1:00 P.M. nor later than 2:00 P.M. unless special arrangements are made with the principal. 4. Subject to the wishes of the principal, the person making the delivery or his representative may be required to remain at the school to assist in sorting, delivery, etc. of the gifts until all deliveries to the students have been completed. MCNAIRY COUNTY CODE OF BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE PUPIL TRANSPORTATION The school bus is an extension of school activity; therefore, the Board expects students to conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with the established standards for safety and classroom behavior. School bus transportation is authorized only for pupils regularly enrolled in public school in grades K-12. This is a privilege to enjoy rather than a right. Students riding a bus are under the supervision and control of the bus driver while on the bus, and all reasonable directions given by the driver shall be followed. Any student may be denied the privilege of riding the bus if it is determined by the principal or his designee that the student's behavior is such as to cause disruption on the bus or that the student has disobeyed state or local rules and regulations pertaining to student transportation and/or behavior. Students suspended from one bus in the system are suspended from all buses. Any student who earns a suspension during the last part of the school year will be subject to serving the remainder of the suspension the following year. If a student's transportation assignment is to be changed, adequate notice shall be given to the student and his/her parent(s). Discipline procedures have been adopted to both instill and maintain acceptable behavior at its optimum while students are riding our school buses. While it is the desire of the Board that no student lost transportation privileges, it is, nevertheless, the responsibility of each student riding a school bus to be aware of and obey effective behavior guidelines and "Safety Procedures." LEVEL I MISBEHAVIORS Level I includes minor misbehaviors which impede orderly bus procedures or interfere with the orderly operation of the bus, but which can usually be handled by the driver. EXAMPLES: (not an exclusive listing): Littering, eating, drinking Loud, noisy disruptive behavior Mischievousness Violation of "Safety Procedures" DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
LEVEL II MISBEHAVIOR Level II includes misbehaviors whose frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt orderly bus climate or procedures or which disrupt the orderly operation of the bus, but which can usually be handled by the driver. EXAMPLES (not an exclusive listing): Annoying to others: verbal-arguing, name calling, physical-pushing, shoving, tripping, thumping Continuation of unmodified Level I behaviors Obscene gestures Refusal to obey driver/failure to carry out directions Rude, disrespectful to driver Using forged notes Using profane/vulgar language Writing vulgar notes DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES:
LEVEL III MISBEHAVIORS Level III includes acts directly against person, property, or policy, or which pose a threat to the safety of others. These misbehaviors usually require corrective action on the part of administrative personnel. EXAMPLES (not an exclusive listing); Assault and/or battery Arson Continuation of unmodified Level I and/or Level II behaviors Fighting Theft Threats to others Violation of "Alcohol and Drug Use" Policy Violation of "Care of School Property" Policy Violation of "Tobacco Use in Schools" Policy Violation of "Weapons & Dangerous Instruments" Policy Violation of "Pupil Transportation/School Day" Policy DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES/OPTIONS
NOTE: PRINCIPAL WILL NOT TAKE ANY ACTION ON DRIVER'S BEHALF WITHOUT COMPLETED BUS CONDUCT FORM.
OPTIONS: Bus probation Corporal punishment Long-term bus suspension Loss of privilege of driving privately owned vehicle to school Restitution for lost, damaged, or stolen property Short-term bus suspension NOTE: A RECURRING LEVEL III OFFENSE MAY RESULT IN DENIAL OF BUS PRIVILEGES.
SEVERITY CLAUSE: Any action by a student(s) which results in violence to another person or property or which poses a threat to the safety of others or which is determined by the driver to be of warranted severity may result in immediate disciplinary action being taken by administration. SAFETY PROCEDURES BOARDING/LEAVING A BUS:
WHILE RIDING ON THE BUS
GENERAL INFORMATION
PUPIL TRANSPORTATION/SCHOOL DAY
a. dropping off passenger b. is on official school business c. is parking and leaving his/her vehicle on that campus for the purpose of transferring to an assigned express bus, or d. has authority from the principal of that school to park and leave his/her vehicle on that campus for the purpose of carpooling. PUPIL TRANSPORTATION - APPEALS PROCESS In most cases, it is most desirable for a student and/or his parent or guardian and the involved bus driver to resolve problems through free and informal communications. If, however, the informal process is not chosen or fails to satisfy either party, that party shall proceed immediately with the complaint by adhering to the following steps of the appeals process: STEP 1: PRINCIPAL STEP 2: SUPERVISOR OF TRANSPORTATION STEP 3: SUPERINTENDENT STEP 4: BOARD OF EDUCATION " |
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05.21.13
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