SELMER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 533 E. Poplar Ave. Selmer, TN 38375 Phone: 731-645-3131 Fax: 731-645-9756 McNairy County Website: www.mcnairy.org Selmer Elementary Website: www.mcnairy.org/ses/
Dear Parents & Students, Welcome to Selmer Elementary School! We are looking forward to an exciting and successful school year. We have prepared this handbook to bring about a better understanding between the school and parents/students. We ask for your cooperation in order to provide your child with a rewarding and enriching educational experience. Please take time to read this handbook thoroughly. Since your handbook is included in your child’s planner, you can always refer to the school calendar for special dates. On behalf of the faculty and staff, we extend an invitation for you to visit our school, attend your child’s programs, and become an active member in our parent volunteer program. We are very happy to have you and your child with us at Selmer Elementary School. We have an active parent volunteer program. Call us if you have time available for volunteer work. Sincerely, Pam Killingsworth, Principal Sondra Kiser, Assistant Principal
Selmer Elementary School Calendar 2011-12
August 2 Meet Your Teacher”, Gr. 1 - Gr. 4, 4:00 – 6:00 P.M. (unless notified by your teacher of a different time). August 3 Orientation for Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten Students and Parents, 5:30 P.M., in Gym. August 4 First Day of School for Grades 1,2,3,4 August 8-17 Special Kindergarten Schedule (Dates will be explained at kindergarten orientation.) August 19 First day for all Kindergarten Students August 27 Donation Drive – Kickoff Day August 24, 25 Fall Pictures will be taken. (all students) September 5 Labor Day – School is Dismissed. September 6 School dismissed at 11:15; Parent-Teacher Contact 12:00-3:15 September 8 Turn-In Day for Donation Drive. September 9 Kickoff Day for Fall Fundraiser. Top selling grade gets a pizza party. September 13 Family Fun Night - Grades K-4 (5:30 – 7:30 P.M) September 23 Order Turn-In Day for Fall Fundraiser. September 29 Fall Picture Retake Day October 17,18,19 Fall Break (School is dismissed.) October 20 Parent-Teacher Conference, 12:00 to 6:00 P.M. (School is dismissed for students.) October 21 School is dismissed for students. October 28 Fall Carnival (watch for note) October (last week) Fundraiser Merchandise should be ready for Pick-Up by Parents (Watch for Note.) November 18 Thanksgiving Lunch (PK, Gr.1 and Gr. 3 guests are invited.); Retired Teachers’ Luncheon November 22 Money Turn-In Day for Fall Fundraiser. November 23, 24,25 School is Dismissed for Thanksgiving holidays. December 9 Christmas Lunch (K, Gr. 2, & Gr. 4 guests are invited.) December 16 Early School Dismissal at 9:30 A.M., for Christmas Holidays. Dismissed through January 2nd. January 3 Classes resume at 8:00 A.M., for all students. January 11 Report cards for second nine-week period will come home. January 12 Class Pictures will be taken in SES Library (During School Day). January 16 School is dismissed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. February 3 Place order for SES Yearbook. February 20 School is dismissed for Presidents’ Day February 28 Kindergarten Cap & Gown Pictures will be taken February 29 & March 1 Spring Pictures will be taken for PK4., Gr. 1-4. (Notes will be sent home when schedules are made.) March 3 PK4 & Kindergarten Registration (During the School Day). March 12-14 Gr.4 ThinkLink Benchmark Assessments - Final Benchmark March 16 Report cards for third quarter will come home. March 19, 21, 22 Gr. 3 ThinkLink Benchmark Assessment – Final Benchmark March 20 School is dismissed for all students, except 11th Grade. March 26-30 Spring Break for all students in McNairy County April 6 School is dismissed for Good Friday. April 10 Family Fun Night, Grades K-4 (5:30 - 7:30 P.M.) April 11,12,13 Book Fair ( During School Day). April 23-27 Grade 3 & 4 TCAP Tests April 30 – May 3 ThinkLink Benchmark Testing for Grades K-2 – Final Benchmark May 4 Otis Lennon Tests are administered in Grade 1. May 2,3,4 End-of-Year Kindergarten Testing May 11 Spring Fling Field Day (Parents are invited to bring Pre-School children.) Final Day for A.R. May 15 Kindergarten Graduation, 8:15 A.M., SES Gym. May 15 Grade 4 Graduation, 1:30 P.M., SES Gym. May 17 Records and Reports Day for Teachers (Students are dismissed from school all day.) May 18 Last Day of School – Students pick up report cards and are dismissed at 9:15 A.M.). May 29 through June 21 Summer School for those students who have not met the academic requirement of their grade level. We also have a special Kindergarten Program in June for those students needing a little help before entering Kindergarten in the Fall.
MISSION STATEMENT By creating and supporting a dynamic system of teaching and learning for all students, Selmer Elementary School will instill a love for learning in the heart of every child so each one will grow to be a lifelong learner, as evidenced through attendance records, academic performance and assessments, and teacher observation.
VISION When students exit Selmer Elementary School at the end of fourth grade, they will exhibit academic, social, and organizational skills necessary to be successful in the middle school setting.
BELIEFS Our Staff Believes:
CONTENTS OF HANDBOOK
01. Accelerated Reader 02. After-School Program 03. Annual Notice to Parents 04. Arrival/Departure of Students 05. Attendance 06. Bus Riding Procedures
01. Cafeteria Rules 02. Care of Property 03. Change of Address/Telephone 04. Delivery of Gifts to School 05. Discipline/School Discipline Policy 06. No Bullying Policy 07. Emergency Closings 08. Enrollment 09. General Rules 10. Head Lice Procedures 11. Homeless/Unaccompanied Youth 12. Ideas for Helping Your Child 13. Incomplete Assignments 14. Injuries, Illnesses – Emergency Friend 15. Interrogations and Searches 16. Leaving School During the School Day 17. McNairy County Internet/Electronic Media Acceptable Use Policy 18. Medical Conditions/Medication Policy 19. Money (Lunch, Milk Break, & Supplies) 20. Parent-Teacher Conference 21. Playground Rules 22. Promotion and Retention 23. Report Cards – Grading 24. School Safety Inspections and Safety Plans 25. Special Programs 26. Student Dress 27. Telephone Use, Cell Phones, Electronic Devices 28. Tick Removal Policy 29. Transportation Change 30. Visitors 31. Withdrawal and Transfer Procedure 32. Selmer Elementary Family Engagement Policy 33. Selmer Elementary School-Parent Compact 34. Unsafe School Choice Policy/Transfer Option for Students… 35. Parental Rights Under No Child Left Behind Legislation 36. Disorderly Conduct, Weapons, Tobacco, and Alcohol and Drug Abuse 37. McNairy County Code of Behavior and Discipline (condensed) 38. Student Discrimination/Harassment and Bullying/Intimidation 39. Notification of Rights under FERPA for Elementary & Secondary Schools 40. FERPA: Notice of Directory Information 41. Parental Authorization and Release Agreement for Student Publicity 42. Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)
01. Accelerated Reader At the beginning of each school year, each student is Grades 2-4 is given a STAR test to identify a child’s grade-equivalent reading score and to identify a child’s “reading range”. First grade students are given this test a little later in the fall. When the student goes to the library during flexible checkout, he/she knows to choose a book that falls in this reading range. When a child finishes reading an Accelerated Reader book, he/she takes an A.R. test on the computer. In order for the child to be eligible for Accelerated Reader incentives, a test score average of 80% must be maintained. Below are the goals for each grade level and accuracy that a student must achieve by the year’s end: Kindergarten – 25 points, with 80% average, Grade 1 – 50 points, with 80% average; Grade 2 – 75 points, with 80% average; grades 3-4 – 100 points, with 80% average. Students and teachers set point goals to be attained at various points during the school year. The date that A.R. stops is designated on the school’s calendar. Students who reach their point goals and test averages of 80% are rewarded throughout the year.
02. After-School Program The After-School Program meets each day that school is in session for the full day (8:00 to 3:00). Parents are encouraged to share interesting experiences and talents and to volunteer as schedules permit. The After-School Program goes from 3:15 to 5:00, with a snack provided free to all after-school students. Students receive homework help until 4:15. Students who are not picked up then participate in a second class from 4:15 to 5:00. Parents who do not pick their children up by 5:15 incur a charge of $5.00 for each five minutes they are late. There is no charge for students attending Monday through Thursday, but there is a $5.00 charge to stay in afterschool on Fridays.
03. Annual Notice to Parents In compliance with state and federal law, the McNairy County School district will provide to each protected student with a disability without discrimination or cost to the student or family, those related aids, services or accommodations which are needed to provide equal opportunity to participate in and obtain the benefits of the school program and extracurricular activities to the maximum extent appropriate to the student’s abilities. In order to qualify as a protected student with a disability, the child must be of school age with a physical or mental disability which substantially limits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the school program. These services and protections for “protected students who are disabled” are distinct from those applicable to all eligible or exceptional students enrolled (or seeking enrollment) in special educational programs. For further information on the evaluation procedures and provisions of services to protected handicapped students, contact Dr. Sue Prather at 731-645-6010.
04. Arrival/Departure of Students All students being transported in cars must be in their classrooms, unpacked, and ready to begin classes at 8:00 A.M. Students who are picked up by parents must remain in the classroom until 3:00 P.M. Students arriving before 7:50 must go to cafeteria (if eating breakfast) or to the gym. Students may not arrive before 7:15 A.M. Students and parents may not go into classrooms prior to 7:50 A.M. Students arriving in cars may unload at the walkways at the east side of the campus or at the walkway beside the gym. All vehicles unloading at the east gate must observe the one-way flow of traffic around the campus. Vehicles unloading at the gym gate may enter from Poplar or the street at the old fire department building, and must also observe the one-way flow of traffic. Drivers are required to observe the “Yield” and “Stop” signs. Drivers must pull cars to the end of the covered walkway in order for cars arriving after them to have adequate space for unloading at the walkways. No cars may unload in front of the office before 8:00 A.M.; this area is reserved for buses. Special education buses are unloading until 8:00 A.M. Cars arriving on the East End of campus must not use or block the parking lot between the gym and Unit F. The school day begins promptly at 8:00 A.M. When, for any reason, a student arrives after 8:00, the parent must sign the student in at the school office. The student will be given a tardy note to give to his/her teacher. The school day goes to 3:00 P.M. Parents are asked to leave children in class until 3:00, unless there is an appointment which cannot be scheduled outside the school day. A tone will ring at 3:00, but students are not permitted to leave the classroom without a parent present to pick up the child. Students who are car-riders will go to the gym at the third bell (about 3:15) to wait for their parents; students picked up in the gym will be signed out by an adult. Students are not permitted to go to cars without being accompanied by an adult. Parents may not go into the classroom hallways or classrooms until the 3:00 bell rings. Please note that tardies and early checkouts accumulate into a day’s absence. Tardies and early checkouts in excess of five are reviewed by the principal and district truancy officer. Note in the “Attendance” section, parents will be held accountable for excessive tardies and absences. Any change in departure of students must have a note or telephone call from parent.
05. Attendance Regular attendance is required by law. Attendance records are online and may be monitored daily by the District Attendance Officer, as well as the Tennessee Department of Education. State funding to our schools is based on student attendance. Also, if our school maintains 95% attendance, we will receive an “A” on the State Report Card. Selmer Elementary will implement the attendance policy described in the following paragraphs. Absences shall be classified as either Excused or Unexcused, as determined by the principal or his/her designee. Excused absences shall include:
Excused absences must be validated with a phone call, note, or doctor’s statement within three (3) days of the absence. It is the parent’s responsibility to request make-up work for excused absences. Parents who pick up their child’s missed assignments must do so no earlier than 3:00 P.M. Call the school office during the day if you want the work left in the school office. Work left in the school office may be picked up between 3:00 and 5:00 P.M. The student will be allowed one day for each day absent to turn in makeup work. Failure to do so may result in a “zero” for the missed assignment(s). Students who are absent for five (5) unexcused days, or who are habitually absent, will be referred to the McNairy County truancy officer. Such a referral may result in a hearing in Juvenile Court. Parents should remember also that checking in late, tardy, or checking out early will add up to additional days of absence and will be counted in the five (5) days. Success in school depends greatly on the student’s attendance. Many times absences are unavoidable, and the school will work with any parent whose child is sick or misses because of a family emergency. Occasional absences cause some learning disruptions, but frequent absences can reduce a student’s academic achievement. Perfect Attendance certificates are only awarded to students who do not miss any part of a day during the school year. · Students must be in their classrooms at 8:00 (8:15 for PK4) and remain at school until 3:00 (2:30 PK4), to avoid the penalties of late check-ins and early checkouts. When students arrive at school late, or leave school early, they are counted absent for the “periods” missed. · A student may accumulate four (4) unexcused tardies without penalty. Any student who exceeds four (4) unexcused tardies will be referred to the truancy officer. · Students who are habitually tardy, or those students whose parents are frequently checking them out early, may receive no credit for the instruction missed. Classroom teachers are authorized to give “zeros” for assignments missed due to excessive and unexcused tardies or early checkouts. · In order for a tardy or early-checkout to be excused, it must follow the eight (8) guidelines for excused absences.
06. Bus Riding Procedures McNairy County Code of 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 students 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/or his 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 lose 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. Safety Procedures: Boarding/Leaving a Bus:
While Riding the Bus:
General Information:
Pupil Transportation – Appeals Process In most cases, it is desirable for a student and/or his parent or guardian and the involved bus driver to resolve problems through free and informal communication. 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 in the appeals process: Step 1: Principal Step 2: Supervisor of Transportation Step 3: Superintendent Step 4: Board of Education
07. Cafeteria Rules Nutritious meals are essential for the physical well-being and the learning ability of each child. Wholesome “Type A” lunches and breakfasts are served. Applications for free or reduced meals are sent home at the beginning of the school year and are available in the school office during the year. Menus are published in the local newspaper. “Ala Carte” food items may be purchased with the school lunch, e.g. fruit juice, ice cream, etc. No student is permitted to purchase more than two ala carte items with his/her lunch. Ala carte items must be purchased when the student is in line getting his/her meal. Every effort will be made to insure that an atmosphere exists in the cafeteria for all students to enjoy a wholesome and tasty meal. The following rules must be followed to maintain that positive atmosphere: Ø Students will enter the cafeteria in a single line. Ø Students will choose items that make a “Type A” meal; a cafeteria staff member will assist students in making their selection. Ø Students should know their “Meal Number” when they reach the register and be prepared to enter those numbers. Ø Students may not return to the serving line once they are seated. If the student forgets a napkin, utensil, or milk, the student will raise his/her hand and ask the assistant to provide the items. Ø Students sit at assigned tables. Ø Students talk in an “inside voice” to other students at the table. When the noise level is excessive, and students are warned, the assistant may ask for students at a table to have “silent lunch” for five minutes, and then to continue “silent lunch” for the remainder of the meal if excessive noise continues. Ø Students will raise his/her hand if he/she needs help from the assistants. Ø Students remain seated until dismissed by their teacher or the assistant. Ø Students are responsible for leaving their seating areas ready for the next group. Food, milk cartons, and napkins should not be left on the table or floor. Ø Students will be charged for damage to cafeteria utensils that are intentionally damaged. Ø Drinks in glass bottles are not permitted. Students are encouraged to drink milk. Drinks may be brought in plastic bottles but parents are encouraged to send drinks in containers no larger than eight ounces. Ø Students should leave the cafeteria quietly. Ø In accordance with McNairy County Policy, students can charge no more than five days.
08. Care of Property Parents, please label all coats, book bags, lunchboxes, and personal items with your child’s name. Writing the child’s name on his/her belongings will allow us to promptly return the item if it is lost. Please discourage your child from bringing more money than he/she needs to spend at school. There will be no charge for textbooks except for math workbooks in kindergarten, grade one, and grade two. All parents should understand that their children are responsible for the care and safekeeping of textbooks and library books which are provided for their use. Students will be required to pay for lost and/or damaged items issued by the school. Respect and pride in the school’s appearance should be instilled in each child. Students should keep their desks and the area around them neat. Marking on desks, walls, restrooms, etc. will be considered vandalism of school property.
09. Change of Address/Telephone Parents are required to furnish the school office with a current phone number for an emergency. Your child’s teacher should be notified immediately when there is a change in your address or telephone number. When students move, the office must be provided two-proofs of residence. The McNairy County Board of education has implemented a calling system that notifies parents when school is dismissed or there is a county-wide change in our schedule; however, all phone numbers must be current and any phone number change must be reported to the SES office. The call can only be delivered if someone answers the phone or if the phone line has an answering system.
10. Delivery of Gifts to School Delivery of personal gifts to students at school shall comply with the following criteria: Ø Containers of gifts (flowers, etc.) shall be made of rubberized plastic or paper. Glass containers and balloons shall be prohibited. Ø Size of gifts shall not exceed eighteen inches (18”) in height or width. Ø 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. Ø Persons making the delivery are responsible for tagging the gift with the child’s name and classroom teacher. Ø 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.
One of the most important lessons education should teach our students is self-discipline. The McNairy County Board of Education believes that acceptable behavior is an essential ingredient of effective educational programs. The Board expects students to conduct themselves in such a manner as to reflect favorably upon themselves, their families, their community and their school. School staff, students, and parents must all assume the responsibility to support the following school rules:
Willful and persistent violation of the rules of the school or truancy. Immoral or disreputable conduct or vulgar or profane language. Willful or malicious damage to real or personal property of the school, or the property of any person attending or assigned to the school. Violence or threatened violence against the person of any personnel attending or assigned to the school. Inciting, advising, or counseling of others to engage in any of the acts hereinbefore described. Marking, defacing, or destroying of school property. Possession of a pistol, gun, or firearm on school property. Possession of a knife, etc., as defined in TCA 30-6-1701, on school property. (“Knife” means any bladed instrument that is capable of inflicting bodily injury or death by cutting or stabbing a person with this instrument.) Assaulting of a principal or teacher with vulgar, obscene, or threatening language. Unlawful use or possession of barbiturates or legend drugs or drug paraphernalia as described in TCA 53-10-101. Any other conduct prejudicial to good order or discipline of any school.
12. No Bullying Policy at Selmer Elementary School: A compact among school staff, students, and parents has been accepted to insure that Selmer Elementary School is a “no bullying” zone. No bullying rules are posted throughout the school. Weekly classroom meetings are held to allow students opportunities to be aware of expected behaviors and also allow students to devise solutions to prevent bullying behaviors. SES Pledge: If someone bullies me…;If someone bullies you…;If someone bullies anyone…This is what to do: TELL a trusted adult. SES Rules against Bullying: We will not bully others. We will try to help students who are bullied. We will make it a point to include students who are easily left out. When we know somebody is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school and an adult at home. Any student is encouraged to tell an adult at school or at home if he/she is bullied anywhere: bus, classroom, walkway, cafeteria, playground, etc. Our school has developed a plan to consistently enforce the consequences when a bullying behavior is reported. .
In making the decision to close schools, the director of schools considers many factors which relate to the fundamental concern for safety and health of students. A county-wide calling system is in place to notify all students’ parents when school is closed or delayed. It is the parent’s responsibility to notify the school if a telephone number is changed. Local radio stations will broadcast school closings, as well as Jackson and Memphis television stations. If the weather becomes severe during the school day, and school is dismissed early, an announcement will be made regarding dismissal time. A telephone call from the director of schools will go out to parents via the calling system. The teacher will refer to the directions given by parents as to whether the child will ride the bus or be picked up. Parents are asked to complete the registration form and promptly return it to the child’s teacher; this form has detailed questions regarding early dismissal of school.
14. Enrollment Selmer Elementary’s enrollment consists of pre-kindergarten through grade four and a county-wide LRE special education program for students. All kindergarten students must be five years of age by September 30th. Kindergarten is a mandatory requirement in the State of Tennessee. Any student entering Selmer Elementary for the first time must provide: a certified birth certificate; a physical examination signed by a physician; a copy of the social security card; and an updated immunization record from the health department. In addition, parents must provide a signed media release form and permission form for student to access internet at school. Upon registering a student at Selmer Elementary School, parents must also provide two proofs of residence (property tax receipt, utility bill, etc.). No student will be permitted to enroll until such proof of residence is provided. (Board of Education Policy). Any student registering at Selmer Elementary who lives outside McNairy County is required to pay $250.00 tuition, with one-half of the amount being required prior to student being enrolled. Any student residing in McNairy County, but registering at Selmer Elementary will be accepted only when overcrowding in that grade is not occurring, and when a commitment is made by parent/guardian who transports the child to guarantee regular attendance and prompt arrival each school day.
15. General Rules
30. School Safety Inspections and Safety Plans Your child’s safety is a priority. The school has carefully formulated fire and tornado plans and conducts drills regularly. Selmer Elementary is inspected annually by the State Fire Marshall. Students practice fire drills. All staff has a plan of action in the event a fire should occur. A tornado plan is practiced in the classrooms, and all staff members are aware of their responsibilities in the event of a tornado watch or warning. A Health Inspector regularly inspects the cafeteria and all buildings and walkways throughout the school. An inspection report is on file in the school office and is posted in the cafeteria. The school has a detailed plan in the event a disgruntled or armed person enters the campus. The plan is outlined in the Faculty Handbook and has been discussed frequently during faculty meetings. In the event of a bomb threat, students will be evacuated using the fire evacuation routes. All teachers are informed to take students as far away from buildings as possible. Signs are posted to inform persons of weapons’ laws – state law prescribes a maximum penalty of six years imprisonment and a fine not to exceed $3000.00 for carrying weapons on school property. Selmer Elementary is a smoke-free campus. Adults may not use tobacco within fifty feet of any building. Cameras have been installed to monitor the campus. Visitors are required to enter through the school office. Gates will not open prior to 7:15 A.M. 31. Special Programs A special education resource program is available for a student who is determined to have a learning disability. A Response to Intervention program is implemented to identify students with strategic and intensive needs. When a student has completed the Tier III intervention process and is not making academic progress on benchmark assessments and classroom performance, a meeting is scheduled with the parents, teachers, and county-wide RTI coordinator. The Support Team determines if a referral for additional interventions or a referral for testing is necessary. With permission by parents and with consensus by members on the support team, further testing may be administered by a licensed psychological examiner. Speech and language therapy is available for those students who have identified speech and language problems. Referrals may be made by teachers or parents. Intervention personnel provide assistance to those students with intensive needs who have not successfully met grade-level benchmarks. Interventions are provided by school interventionists and/or classroom teachers to those students with strategic or intensive needs. These interventions are provided in addition to ninety minutes language arts instruction and sixty minutes math instruction. A TACS class is available for those students who excel academically and who meet requirements set forth by the State Department of Education. The Project BASIC class is available for students who are experiencing emotional and social problems, with the provision of classroom, individual, and small-group counseling. A guidance program is implemented at Selmer Elementary School. Students receive group counseling one day each week, and referrals for individual counseling may be made by parents, teachers, and students. A Student Assistance Program (SAP) is available to identify, intervene, and assist students whose problems affect performance in academics and behavior in the school environment.
32. Student Dress Although Selmer Elementary has no formal dress code and leaves the responsibility to parents for dressing and grooming their children, the cooperation of parents is expected. Students will be expected to keep themselves well-groomed and neatly dressed at all times. Any form of dress which is considered contrary to good hygiene, or which is disruptive in appearance and detrimental to the purpose or conduct of the school, will not be permitted. Shorts of appropriate size and length are acceptable for all grades. Bare midriff tops and halter tops are not permitted. Hats, caps, and bandanas cannot be worn at school. Apparel which depicts violence is not permitted. Shirts with offensive language or pictures are not acceptable. Muscle tank shirts and mesh shirts are not permitted. Parents are also asked to refrain from coming onto the school campus with t-shirts, caps, etc., which exhibit violence and/or offensive language. 33. Telephone, Cell Phones, Electronic Devices Students may only use the telephone unless given permission by the school office personnel. Permission will be granted for illness, emergency situations, or with written request by the child’s parent or teacher. Students cannot possess cell phones and electronic devices at school. A cell phone or electronic game/device taken up will only be returned to the parent, and any future student possession of a cell phone or electronic game/device may result in that device being kept in the school office for a reasonable period of time.
34. Tick Removal Policy School staff members do not remove embedded ticks. If a tick is embedded into the skin, then it will be covered with a bandage and the office personnel will attempt to notify the parent/guardian. The parent/guardian may come to school to remove the tick. If the parent cannot be reached, then a note will be sent home with the student, documenting where the tick is embedded and what was done at school. 35. Transportation Change Parents must call the office or send a note to the child’s teacher when there is any transportation change, specifically when riding a different bus. If no notification is received, you child will follow his/her regular method of getting home. Parents are required also to send a note if a person other than the parent is picking up the child. Parents cannot drop off car riders earlier than 7:15 A.M., or leave car-riding students in the gym later than 3:40 P.M.
36. Visitors All visitors on the Selmer Elementary campus must report first to the school office. Visitors, including parents and volunteers, will sign in at the school office. Upon leaving the campus, the visitor will sign out. Visitors are welcome, but an appointment with teachers keeps interruptions to instruction at a minimum. Brothers, sisters, and friends are not permitted to visit with the student during the school day. Parents may bring younger children to assembly programs and special events (Book Fair, Fall Carnival, Spring Fling). A forgotten item, such as a lunchbox, an assignment, or a book should be brought to the school office. Classes may not be interrupted after 8:00 A.M. The item will be placed in the teacher’s mailbox to be picked up when the teacher comes to the office. 37. Withdrawal and Transfer Procedure The procedure for withdrawal and transfer of students is as follows: Ø Obtain appropriate forms at the school office. Ø Have forms completed by the classroom teacher, return all books and school property, and be sure all fees are paid. Ø Take completed forms back to the school office for final clearance. Ø If all textbooks and library books are returned, and all debts are paid, records can be sent immediately to your child’s new school. 38. SELMER ELEMENTARY FAMILY ENGAGEMENT POLICY GENERAL This school parent involvement policy has been developed and agreed upon with parents of SES students. It will be reviewed and updated annually as needed to meet the changing needs of parents and our school. Names of individuals involved in the development of this policy are on file in the principal’s office. A copy of this policy will be given to parents each year.
PARENTAL COMMENTSComments by parents of participating children concerning dissatisfaction with the LEA plan shall be attached to the LEA plan when submitted to the State.
POLICY INVOLVEMENTTwo annual meetings, to which all parents shall be invited and encouraged to attend, will be held each year. The meetings will be held at a time convenient to parents. At these meetings this policy, the availability of information concerning teachers’ credentials, legal requirements, and the parents’ rights to involved will be explained. In addition to the annual meetings, a flexible number (minimum of two) of meetings for parents will be offered throughout the year (Parent Visitation, Open House, four meetings of the Parent-Teacher Organization). Parents are involved in an organized, ongoing, and timely way, in the planning, review, and improvement of the Title I School-wide Program, including the school parental involvement policy through such means as meetings, conferences, written/oral communications, needs assessments, and parent meetings. Through such means as the Open House, Parent Teacher Conferences, monthly newsletter, parent meetings, formal and informal contacts, publications in local newspaper, local report cards, STAR reports, and State reports, parents of participating children are provided: …timely information about the title I School-wide Program; …information about and interpretation of the school’s and child’s performance; …a description and explanation of the curriculum, assessment measures, and proficiency expectations for students; …opportunities to share experiences, offer suggestions, and, as appropriate, participate in decisions relating to the education of their children; and …timely responses to their suggestions.
SHARED RESPONSIBILITIES FOR HIGH STUDENT PERFORMANCESelmer Elementary School has jointly developed with parents of students a School-parent Compact that outlines how parents, the school staff, and students share the responsibility for improved student achievement and the means by which the school and parents will build and develop a partnership to help children achieve the State’s high standards. The compact describes the school’s responsibility to provide high quality curriculum and instruction in a supportive and effective learning environment that enables students to meet the State’s student performance standards, and the ways in which each parent will be responsible for supporting his/her children’s learning. The importance of communication between teachers and parents on an ongoing basis is stressed in the compact through such means as urging parents to attend parent-teacher conferences during which the compact will be discussed as it relates to each child’s achievement and urging teachers to send parents frequent reports on their children’s progress. At Selmer Elementary School, parents are given reasonable access to staff, provided opportunities to volunteer and participate in their child’s class and observe classroom activities. BUILDING CAPACITY FOR INVOLVEMENTTo ensure effective involvement of parents and to support a partnership among the school, parents, and the community to improve student achievement, Selmer Elementary School through such means as meetings, conferences, Partners in Education, workshops and written and oral communications: …provides assistance to parents in such areas as understanding the National Education Goals, the State’s content standards and State student performance standards, State and local assessments, parent involvement requirements, and how to monitor a child’s progress and work with educators to improve the performance of their children, as well as information on how to participate in decisions relating to the education of their children; …provides materials coordinating necessary literacy training from other sources and provides training to help parents work with their children to improve their children’s achievement; …educates teachers, pupil services personnel, the principal and other staff, with the assistance of parents, in the value and utility of contributions of parents, and in how to reach out, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners, implement and coordinate parent programs, and build ties between home an school; …coordinates and integrates parent involvement programs and activities with Head Start, Even Start, and other programs to the extent feasible and appropriate; …develops appropriate roles for community-bases organizations and businesses in parent involvement activities including providing information about opportunities for organizations and businesses to work with parent and schools, and encouraging the formation of partnerships between schools, and local businesses that include a role for parents; …conducts other activities, as appropriate and feasible, that are designed to help parents become full partners in the educations of their children such as a parent resource center and providing opportunities for parents to learn about child development and child rearing issues; …ensures, to the extent possible, that information related to school and parent programs, meetings, and other activities is sent to the homes of students in the language used in such homes (translations;) and …provides such other reasonable support (timely response) for parental involvement activities as parents may request.
ACCESSIBILITYIn carrying out parental involvement requirements, Selmer Elementary School, to the extent practicable, provides full opportunities for the participation of parents with limited English proficiency or with disabilities, including providing information and school profiles in a language and form such parents understand.
39. SELMER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-PARENT COMPACT SCHOOL MISSION: The mission of Selmer Elementary School is to instill a love for learning in the heart of every child we touch so that each one will grow to be a life-long learner. SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY: At Selmer Elementary School, we are committed to provide experiences for students that enable them to develop the skills and attitudes that are necessary for becoming productive, responsible citizens in an ever-changing society. Each student needs to achieve and to excel in some way in order to enhance a positive, worthwhile concept about himself/herself. Parents, school and community must jointly share responsibility in the leaning and growing process of our children. HAND IN HAND WE CAN LEARN AND WORK TOGETHER TO BUILD A BETTER WORLD. AS A TEACHER, I will …believe that each student can learn …show respect for each child and his/her family …come to class prepared to teach …provide an environment conducive to learning …help each child grow to his/her fullest potential …provide frequent information to parents on their child’s progress …provide high quality curriculum and instruction …enforce school and classroom rules fairly and consistently …maintain open lines of communication with students and their parents …seek ways to involve parents in the school program …demonstrate professional behavior and a positive attitude AS A STUDENT, I will …attend school regularly …always try to do my best in my work and in my behavior …work cooperatively with my classmates …show respect for myself, my school and other people …obey the school rules …take pride in my school AS A PARENT/GUARDIAN, I will …see that my child attends school regularly and on time …support the school in its efforts to maintain proper discipline …provide a home environment that encourages my child to learn …communicate often with my child’s teacher …talk with my child about his/her school activities every day …encourage my child to read at home and to monitor his/her TV viewing …volunteer time at my child’s school …attend parent-teacher conferences …show respect and support for my child, the teachers and the school AS A PRINCIPAL, I will …provide an environment that allows for positive communication between the teacher, parent and student …encourage teachers to provide information about student progress Hand in Hand we will work together to carry out the agreement of this contract.
40. Unsafe School Choice Policy/Transfer Option for Students Victimized by Violent Crime at School Under the Tennessee State Board of Education’s Unsafe School Choice Policy, any public school student who is the victim of a violent crime as defined under Tennessee Code Annotated 40-38-111(g) or the attempt to commit one of these offenses as defined under Tennessee Code Annotated 39-12-101, shall be provided an opportunity to transfer to another grade level appropriate school within the district.
41. Parental Rights under No Child Left Behind Legislation As a parent of a student at a Title I school, you have the right to know the professional qualifications of the classroom teachers who instruct your child. Specifically, you have the right to know · whether or not the teacher is licensed and highly qualified for the grades and subjects he or she teaches, · whether or not the state department of education has decided that the teacher can teach in a classroom without being licensed under state regulations because of special circumstances, · the teacher’s college major; whether the teacher has any advanced degrees and, if so, the subject of the degrees, · whether any teachers’ assistants/paraprofessionals provide services to your child and, if they do, their qualifications. If you would like to receive any of this information, please submit your written request to Director of Schools, 170 W. Court Ave., Selmer, TN 38375.
42. Disorderly Conduct, Weapons, Tobacco, and Alcohol and Drug Abuse Disruptive behavior WILL NOT be tolerated. Students shall not, at any time, possess any dangerous weapon on school property, in school vehicles, or at any school sponsored activity. Violation of this policy or the possession, use, or attempt to sell drugs, alcohol, or tobacco will result in appropriate disciplinary action. (See McNairy County Code of Behavior and Discipline Level I, II, III, and IV Misbehaviors for further clarification.)
43. McNairy County Code of Behavior and Discipline (condensed) 1. Know and adhere to rules and regulations established by the Board of Education and the local schools and implemented by school administrators and teachers. 2. Respect the human dignity and worth of every other individual. 3. Study diligently and maintain the best possible level of academic achievement. 4. Be punctual and present in the regular school program. 5. Help maintain and improve the school environment, preserve school and private property, and exercise care while using school facilities. 6. Refrain from disobedience or misconduct or behavior which would lead to any physical or emotional harm or that disrupts the educational process. The McNairy County Code of Behavior and Discipline is available online at www.mcnairy.org. To request a printed copy, submit your written request to Director of Schools, 170 W. Court Ave., Selmer, TN 38375.
44. Student Discrimination/Harassment and Bullying/Intimidation Students shall be provided a learning environment free from sexual, racial, ethnic and religious discrimination/harassment. Likewise, students shall be provided a safe learning environment, free from bullying, intimidation or hostility. The McNairy County Board of Education policy regarding these matters is posted at www.mcnairy.org, McNairy County Online Policy Manual, Section 6.304. To request a printed copy of the policy, submit your written request to Director of Schools, 170 W. Court Ave., Selmer, TN 38375.
45. Notification of Rights under FERPA for Elementary and Secondary Schools The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are (1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. (2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parents or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the school to amend a record should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. (3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the school has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using its own employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or students serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the school discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. (4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The office that administers FERPA is Family Policy Compliance Office, U. S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-5920.
46. FERPA: Notice of Directory Information The McNairy County School System may disclose certain information, known as directory information, without consent, in publications such as, but not limited to, the annual yearbook, honor roll/recognition lists, playbills, graduation programs, and sports programs. Parents or eligible students may refuse to allow the school system/school to release this information. If you do not want this information released, you must visit the school office annually and complete the Directory Information Opt Out Form within 10 days of the start of the school year or within 10 days of your student’s enrollment in the school. The System has designated the following information as directory information: student’s name; address; date and place of birth; telephone listing/number; electronic mail address; photograph/visual image; enrollment information: major field of study, dates of attendance; grade level; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; weight and height of members of athletic teams; degrees, honors, and awards received; most recent educational agency or institution attended; other similar information that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. In addition, two federal laws require local education agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories – name, address, and telephone listing – unless parents have advised the School that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent (by filling out a Military Recruitment Opt Out Form at the school office).
47. Parental Authorization and Release Agreement for Student Publicity The McNairy County School System frequently publicizes student accomplishments, honors/awards, projects, etc. in local and regional media. It is understood that parents grant the McNairy County School System permission to use the name, photograph, image, voice, written work, academic product, and/or quote of the student in media publicity prepared/allowed by the school system. The parent understands and agrees that the name, photograph, image, voice, written work, academic product, and/or quote may appear in a media publication (including any print media, television broadcast, multimedia presentation or website), which will be distributed to/viewed by various groups and/or persons. The parent/guardian releases the Board, its agents and employees, including the Director of Schools, from any and all claims, demands, damages, actions, causes of action, or suits of any kind or nature whatsoever, which may arise, or may in the future arise, from the publication of the photograph, image, voice, and/or quote of the Child and/or the dissemination of the name, photograph, image, voice, and/or quote by a media outlet or on a website. To refuse to allow the McNairy County School System to disseminate such publicity in any print, broadcast, or electronic media, the parent must annually complete and sign the Media/Publicity Opt Out Form in the school’s front office.
48. Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one of more of the following protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED) 1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; 2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family; 3. Sex behavior or attitudes; 4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; 5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships; 6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers 7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or 8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility. Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of 1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding; 2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and 3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others. Inspect, upon request and before administration or use 1. Protected information surveys of students; 2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and 3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under State law. The McNairy County School System has developed and adopted policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. The School/System will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. The School/System will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opt his or her child out of participation in the specific activity or survey. The School/System will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the school year if the System has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Following is a list of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement:
Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office, U. S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-5902
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CONTENTS OF HANDBOOK
01. AcceleratedReader 02. After-SchoolProgram 03. AnnualNotice to Parents 04. Arrival/Departureof Students 05. Attendance 06. Bus RidingProcedures 07. CafeteriaRules 08. Care ofProperty 09. Change ofAddress/Telephone 10. Delivery ofGifts to School 11. Discipline/SchoolDiscipline Policy 12. No BullyingPolicy 13. EmergencyClosings 14. Enrollment 15. GeneralRules 16. Head LiceProcedures 17. Homeless/UnaccompaniedYouth 18. Ideas forHelping Your Child 19. IncompleteAssignments 20. Injuries,Illnesses – Emergency Friend 21. Interrogationsand Searches 22. LeavingSchool During the School Day 23. McNairyCounty Internet/Electronic Media Acceptable Use Policy 24. MedicalConditions/Medication Policy 25. Money(Lunch, Milk Break, & Supplies) 26. Parent-TeacherConference 27. Parent-TeacherOrganization (PTO) 28. PlaygroundRules 29. Promotionand Retention 30. Report Cards– Grading 31. SchoolSafety Inspections and Safety Plans 32. SpecialPrograms 33. StudentDress 34. TelephoneUse, Cell Phones, Electronic Devices 35. Tick RemovalPolicy 36. TransportationChange 37. Visitors 38. Withdrawaland Transfer Procedure 39. SelmerElementary Family Engagement Policy 40. SelmerElementary School-Parent Compact 41. UnsafeSchool Choice Policy/Transfer Option for Students… 42. ParentalRights Under No Child Left BehindLegislation 43. DisorderlyConduct, Weapons, Tobacco, and Alcohol and Drug Abuse 44. McNairy County Code of Behavior and Discipline(condensed) 45. StudentDiscrimination/Harassment and Bullying/Intimidation 46. Notificationof Rights under FERPA for Elementary & Secondary Schools 47. FERPA: Notice of Directory Information 48. ParentalAuthorization and Release Agreement for Student Publicity 49. Notificationof Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)
01. AcceleratedReader Atthe beginning of each school year, each student is Grades 2-4 is given a STARreading test to identify a child’s grade-equivalent reading score and toidentify a child’s “reading range”. First grade students are given this test in the fall. When the student goes to the library duringflexible checkout, he/she knows to choose a book that falls in this readingrange. Whena child finishes reading an AcceleratedReader book, he/she takes an A.R. test on the computer. In order for the child to be eligible for Accelerated Reader incentives, a testscore average of 80% must be maintained. Below are the goals for each grade level and accuracy that a studentmust achieve by the year’s end: Kindergarten– 25 points, with 80% average, Grade1 – 50 points, with 80% average; Grade 2 – 75 points, with 80% average; grades3-4 – 100 points, with 80% average. Students and teachers set point goals to be attained at various pointsduring the school year. The date that A.R.stops is designated on the school’s calendar. Students who reach their point goals and test averages of 80% are rewarded throughout the year.
02. After-School Program The After-School Program meets each daythat school is in session for the full day (8:00 to 3:00). There is no charge for students attending the after-school program. Parents are encouraged to share interestingexperiences and talents and to volunteer as schedules permit. The After-School Program goes from 3:15to 5:00, with a snack provided free to all after-school students. Students receive homework help until4:15. Students who are not picked up thenparticipate in a second class from 4:15 to 5:00. Parents who do not pick theirchildren up by 5:15 incur a charge of $5.00 for each five minutes they arelate. There is no charge for students attending Monday through Thursday, butthere is a $5.00 charge to stay in afterschool on Fridays.
03. Annual Notice to Parents Incompliance with state and federal law, the McNairy County School district willprovide to each protected student with a disability without discrimination orcost to the student or family, those related aids, services or accommodationswhich are needed to provide equal opportunity to participate in and obtain thebenefits of the school program and extracurricular activities to the maximumextent appropriate to the student’s abilities. In order to qualify as a protected student with a disability, the childmust be of school age with a physical or mental disability which substantiallylimits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the schoolprogram. Theseservices and protections for “protected students who are disabled” are distinctfrom those applicable to all eligible or exceptional students enrolled (orseeking enrollment) in special educational programs. Forfurther information on the evaluation procedures and provisions of services toprotected handicapped students, contactDr. Sue Prather at 731-645-6010.
04. Arrival/Departureof Students Allstudents being transported in cars must be in their classrooms, unpacked, andready to begin classes at 8:00 A.M. Students who are picked up by parents mustremain in the classroom until 3:00 P.M. Students arriving before 7:50 must go to cafeteria (if eatingbreakfast) or to the gym. Students maynot arrive before 7:15 A.M. Students and parents may not go intoclassrooms prior to 7:50 A.M. Students arriving in cars mayunload at the walkways at the east side of the campus or at the walkway besidethe gym. All vehicles unloading at the east gate must exit Poplar Avenue andobserve the one-way flow of traffic around the campus. Vehicles unloading at the gym gate may enter thestreet from Poplar or the street at the old fire department building, and must observe the one-way flow of traffic. Drivers are required to observe the “Yield”and “Stop” signs. Drivers must pull cars to the end of the covered walkway in order for cars arrivingafter them to have adequate space for unloading at the walkways. No cars may unload in front of the office before 8:00 A.M.; this area is reserved forbuses. Special education buses areunloading until 8:00 A.M. Cars arriving on the East Endof campus must not use or block the parking lot between the gym and Unit F. The school day begins promptly at 8:00 A.M. When, for any reason, a student arrives after 8:00, the parent must sign the student in at theschool office. The student will be givena tardy note to give to his/her teacher. The school day goes to 3:00 P.M. Parentsare asked to leave children in class until 3:00, unless there is an appointment which cannot bescheduled outside the school day. A tonewill ring at 3:00, butstudents are not permitted to leave the classroom without a parent present topick up the child. Students who arecar-riders will go to the gym at the third bell (about 3:15) to wait for their parents; students pickedup in the gym will be signed out by an adult. Students are not permitted to go to cars without being accompanied by anadult. Parents may not go into the classroom hallways or classroomsuntil the 3:00 bell rings. Please note that tardies and early checkoutsaccumulate into a day’s absence. Tardiesand early checkouts in excess of five are reviewed by the principal anddistrict truancy officer. Note in the“Attendance” section, parents will be held accountable for excessive tardiesand absences. Any change in departure of students must have a noteor telephone call from parent.
05. Attendance Regularattendance is required by law. Attendancerecords are online and may be monitored daily by the District AttendanceOfficer, as well as the Tennessee Department of Education. State funding to our schools is based onstudent attendance. Also, if our school maintains 95% attendance,we will receive an “A” on the State Report Card. Selmer Elementarywill implement the attendance policy described in the following paragraphs. Absences shall be classified as either Excused or Unexcused, as determined by the principal or his/her designee. Excusedabsences shall include:
Excused absences must bevalidated with a phone call, note, or doctor’s statement within three (3) days of the absence. It is the parent’sresponsibility to request make-up work for excused absences. Parents who pick up their child’s missedassignments must do so no earlier than 3:00 P.M. Call the school office during the day if youwant the work left in the school office. Work left in the school office may bepicked up between 3:00 and 5:00 P.M. The student will be allowed one day for each day absent to turn in makeup work. Failure to do so may result in a “zero” for the missed assignment(s). Students who are absent for five (5) unexcused days, or who are habituallyabsent, will be referred to the truancy officer. Such a referral may result in a hearing inJuvenile Court. Parents should rememberalso that checking in late, tardy, or checking out early will add up toadditional days of absence and will be counted in the five (5) days. Successin school depends greatly on the student’s attendance. Many times absences are unavoidable, and theschool will work with any parent whose child is sick or misses because of afamily emergency. Occasional absencescause some learning disruptions, but frequent absences can reduce a student’sacademic achievement. Perfect Attendance certificates are onlyawarded to students who do not miss any part of a day during the school year. · Students must bein their classrooms at 8:00 (8:15 forPK4) and remain at school until 3:00 (2:30 PK4), to avoid the penalties of latecheck-ins and early checkouts. Whenstudents arrive at school late, or leave school early, they are counted absentfor the “periods” missed. · A student mayaccumulate four (4) unexcused tardies without penalty. Any student who exceeds four (4) unexcusedtardies will be referred to the truancy officer. · Students who are habitually tardy, orthose students whose parents are frequently checking them out early, mayreceive no credit for the instruction missed. · In order for a tardy or early-checkout to be excused,it must follow the eight (8) guidelines for excused absences.
06. Bus Riding Procedures McNairy County Codeof Discipline: Pupil Transportation The school bus is an extension of schoolactivity; therefore, the Board expects students to conduct themselves on thebus in a manner consistent withthe established standards for safety and classroom behavior. School bus transportation is authorized only forstudents regularly enrolled in public school in grades K-12. This is a privilege to enjoy rather than aright. Students riding a bus are under thesupervision and control of the bus driver while on the bus, and all reasonabledirections given by the driver shall be followed. Any student may be denied the privilegeof riding the bus if it is determined by the principal or his designee that thestudent’s behavior is such as to cause disruption on the bus or that thestudent has disobeyed state or local rules and regulations pertaining tostudent transportation and/or behavior. Students suspended from one bus in the system are suspended from allbuses. Any student who earns asuspension during the last part of the school year will be subject to servingthe remainder of the suspension the following year. If a student’s transportation assignment isto be changed, adequate notice shall be given to the student and/or hisparent(s). Discipline procedures have been adoptedto both instill and maintain acceptable behavior at its optimum while studentsare riding our school buses. While it isthe desire of the Board that no student lose transportation privileges, it is,nevertheless, the responsibility of each student riding a school bus to be awareof and obey effective behavior guidelines and safety procedures. Safety Procedures: Boarding/Leaving a Bus:
While Riding the Bus:
General Information:
Pupil Transportation –Appeals Process In most cases, it is desirable for astudent and/or his parent or guardian and the involved bus driver to resolveproblems through free and informal communication. If, however, the informal process is notchosen or fails to satisfy either party, that party shall proceed immediatelywith the complaint by adhering to the following steps in the appeals process: Step 1: Principal Step 2: Supervisor of Transportation Step 3: Superintendent Step 4: Boardof Education
07. Cafeteria Rules Nutritious meals are essential for thephysical well-being and the learning ability of each child. Wholesome “Type A” lunches and breakfasts areserved. Applications for free or reducedmeals are sent home at the beginning of the school year and are available inthe school office during the year. Menus are published in the local newspaper. “Ala Carte” food items may be purchasedwith the school lunch, e.g. fruit juice, ice cream, etc. No student is permitted to purchase more thantwo ala carte items with his/her lunch. Ala carte items must bepurchased when the student is in line getting his/her meal. Every effort will be made to insure thatan atmosphere exists in the cafeteria for all students to enjoy a wholesome andtasty meal. The following rules must befollowed to maintain that positive atmosphere: Ø Students will enterthe cafeteria in a single line. Ø Students will chooseitems that make a “Type A” meal; a cafeteria staff member will assist studentsin making their selection. Ø Students shouldknow their “Meal Number” when they reach the register and be prepared to enterthose numbers. Ø Students may notreturn to the serving line once they are seated. If the student forgets a napkin, utensil, ormilk, the student will raise his/her hand and ask the assistant to provide theitems. Ø Students sit atassigned tables. Ø Students talk inan “inside voice” to other students at the table. When the noise level is excessive, andstudents are warned, the assistant may ask for students at a table to have“silent lunch” for five minutes, and then to continue “silent lunch” for theremainder of the meal if excessive noise continues. Ø Students willraise his/her hand if he/she needs help from the assistants. Ø Students remainseated until dismissed by their teacher or the assistant. Ø Students areresponsible for leaving their seating areas ready for the next group. Food,milk cartons, and napkins should not be left on the table or floor. Ø Students will becharged for damage to cafeteria utensils that are intentionally damaged. Ø Drinks in glassbottles are not permitted. Students areencouraged to drink milk. Drinks may bebrought in plastic bottles but parents are encouraged to send drinks in containersno larger than eight ounces. Ø Students should leavethe cafeteria quietly. Ø In accordancewith McNairy County Policy, students can charge no more than five days.
08. Care of Property Parents, pleaselabel all coats, book bags, lunchboxes, and personal items with yourchild’s name. Writing the child’s nameon his/her belongings will allow us to promptly return the item if it is lost. Please discourage your child frombringing more money than he/she needs to spend at school. There will be no charge for textbooks except for mathworkbooks in kindergarten, grade one, and grade two. All parents shouldunderstand that their children are responsible for the care and safekeeping oftextbooks and library books which are provided for their use. Students will be required to pay for lostand/or damaged items issued by the school. Respect and pride in the school’sappearance should be instilled in each child. Students should keep their desks and the area around them neat. Marking on desks, walls, restrooms, etc. willbe considered vandalism of school property.
09. Change of Address/Telephone Parentsare required to furnish the school office with a current phone numberfor an emergency. Your child’s teachershould be notified immediately when there is a change in your address ortelephone number. When students move,the office must be provided two-proofs of residence. The McNairy County Board of educationhas implemented a calling system that notifies parents when school is dismissedor there is a county-wide change in our schedule; however, all phone numbersmust be current and any phone number change must be reported to the SESoffice. The call can only be deliveredif someone answers the phone or if the phone line has an answering system.
10. Delivery of Gifts to School Delivery of personal gifts tostudents at school shall comply with the following criteria: Ø Containers ofgifts (flowers, etc.) shall be made of rubberized plastic or paper. Glass containers and balloons shall beprohibited. Ø Size of giftsshall not exceed eighteen inches (18”) in height or width. Ø Deliveries shallnot be made earlier than 1:00 P.M.,nor later than 2:00 P.M.,unless special arrangements are made with the principal. Ø Persons makingthe delivery are responsible for tagging the gift with the child’s name andclassroom teacher. Ø Subject to thewishes 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. ofthe gifts until all deliveries to the students have been completed.
Oneof the most important lessons education should teach our students isself-discipline. The McNairy CountyBoard of Education believes that acceptable behavior is an essential ingredientof effective educational programs. TheBoard expects students to conduct themselves in such a manner as to reflectfavorably upon themselves, their families, their community and theirschool. School staff, students, andparents must all assume the responsibility to support the following schoolrules:
Willfuland persistent violation of the rules of the school or truancy. Immoralor disreputable conduct or vulgar or profane language. Willfulor malicious damage to real or personal property of the school, or the propertyof any person attending or assigned to the school. Violenceor threatened violence against the person of any personnel attending orassigned to the school. Inciting,advising, or counseling of others to engage in any of the acts hereinbeforedescribed. Marking,defacing, or destroying of school property. Possessionof a pistol, gun, or firearm on school property. Possessionof a knife, etc., as defined in TCA 30-6-1701, on school property. (“Knife”means any bladed instrument that is capable of inflicting bodily injury ordeath by cutting or stabbing a person with this instrument.) Assaultingof a principal or teacher with vulgar, obscene, or threatening language. Unlawfuluse or possession of barbiturates or legend drugs or drug paraphernalia asdescribed in TCA 53-10-101. Anyother conduct prejudicial to good order or discipline of any school.
12. No Bullying Policy at Selmer Elementary School: A compact among school staff, students,and parents has been accepted to insure that Selmer Elementary School is a “nobullying” zone. No bullying rules areposted throughout the school. Weeklyclass meetings are held to allow students opportunities to be aware of expectedbehaviors and also allow students to devise solutions to prevent bullyingbehaviors. SES Pledge: Ifsomeone bullies me…;If someone bullies you…;If someone bullies anyone…This iswhat to do: TELL a trusted adult. SESRules against Bullying: We will not bullyothers. We will try to help students whoare bullied. We will make it a point toinclude students who are easily left out. When we know somebody is being bullied, we will tell an adult at schooland an adult at home. Any student is encouraged to tell an adult at schoolor at home if he/she is bullied anywhere: bus, classroom, walkway, cafeteria,playground, etc. Our school has developed a plan toconsistently enforce the consequences when a bullying behavior is reported. .
In making the decision to close schools,the director of schools considers many factors which relate to the fundamentalconcern for safety and health of students. A county-wide calling system is in placeto notify all students’ parents when school is closed or delayed. It is the parent’s responsibility to notifythe school if a telephone number is changed. Local radio stations will broadcast schoolclosings, as well as Jackson and Memphis televisionstations. If the weather becomes severe during theschool day, and school is dismissed early, an announcement will be maderegarding dismissal time. The teacherwill refer to the directions given by parents as to whether the child will ridethe bus or be picked up. Parents areasked to complete the registration form and promptly return it to the child’steacher; this form has detailed questions regarding early dismissal of school. 14. Enrollment SelmerElementary’s enrollment consists of pre-kindergarten through grade four and acounty-wide LRE special education program for students. All kindergartenstudents must be five years of age by September 30th. Kindergarten is amandatory requirement in the State of Tennessee. Any student entering Selmer Elementary forthe first time must provide: a certifiedbirth certificate; a physical examination signed by a physician; a copy of thesocial security card; and an updated immunization record from the healthdepartment. In addition, parents must provide a signed media release form and permission form for student to accessinternet at school. Upon registering a student at Selmer Elementary School, parents must also provide two proofs of residence (property taxreceipt, utility bill, etc.). No studentwill be permitted to enroll until such proof of residence is provided. (Board of Education Policy). Any student registering at Selmer Elementarywho lives outside McNairy County is required to pay$250.00 tuition, with one-half of the amount being required prior to studentbeing enrolled. Any student residing in McNairy County,but registering at Selmer Elementary will be accepted only when overcrowding inthat grade is not occurring, and when a commitment is made by parent/guardianwho transports the child to guarantee regular attendance and prompt arrivaleach school day.
15. General Rules
16. Head Lice Procedures
17. Homeless/Unaccompanied Youth The McKinney-Vento Act asreauthorized by the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 defines homeless studentsas children and youth who “lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttimeresidence.” Any student meeting this definitionshould be reported to the school system’s Homeless Coordinator, Dr. Sue Prather, at 645-6010.
18. Ideas for Helping Your Child
19. IncompleteAssignments Thestudent is responsible for completing all work missed during absences. The student is allowed one (1) day per eachday of excused absence to turn in makeup work. The work of a student whose grades are satisfactory, but are withheldbecause of failure to complete the required work shall be reported as“Incomplete”. If the “Incomplete” is notremoved within the current nine-week grading period, it will then become an “F”or Failing. Teachers are not responsiblefor allowing students to make up assignments or tests missed due to excessiveand unexcused tardies and early-checkouts.
20. Injuries, Illnesses –Emergency Friend Parents or guardians will be notifiedwhen a child becomes ill or sustains any injury that will prevent him/her fromparticipating in regular planned activities. When parent/guardian is notified of child’s injury or illness, theparent is expected to pick up the child if so advised by the school officepersonnel. The student registration form which iscompleted annually contains accurate information on how to contact parents,neighbors, or friends to be called in case of an accident or emergency. This information must be kept up-to-date andon file in the school office. Parents should notify the child’s teacherimmediately whenever there is a change in the child’s address or telephonenumber, both at home and at parent’s place of employment.
21. Interrogations and Searches It is the intent of this policy to aid insecuring a safe environment in which the education of the students of McNairy County may occur. The Board recognizes the position of theschool’s “in loco parentis” and theresponsibility this places on school personnel in each school to secure orderand to protect students from harm while in their custody. The Board also finds that individualcircumstances and local particularities require that principals must be reliedon to exercise their professionally trained judgment in determining what actionis appropriate within the provision of this policy. Students may be questioned by anyteacher or administrator about any matter pertaining to the operation of theschool and/or enforcement of its rules. Questioning should be conducted discreetly and under circumstances whichavoid unnecessary embarrassment to the person being questioned. If a student is suspected or accused ofany matter or incident committed in a school during school hours or on schoolproperty at any time, the principal/designee may interrogate the studentwithout the presence of parent(s) of the student and without giving the studentconstitutional warnings. If the principal has requested assistanceby the police department to investigate a crime involving the school, thepolice shall have the permission to interrogate a student suspect in schoolduring school hours. The principal shallattempt to notify the parent(s) of the student of the intended interrogation,but the interrogation may proceed if the parent is unavailable or unwilling toattend. The principal or his designeeshall be present during the interrogation.
22. Leaving School During theSchool Day No student is permitted to leave the school groundswithout prior permission from the principal’s office. When a student needs to leave school before 3:00 P.M., parents are asked to senda note to the child’s teacher, or to call the school office. Parents must come through the schooloffice to sign out the child and to obtain a dismissal pass if picking up achild prior to 3:00 P.M. Parents areencouraged to schedule appointments with the doctor or dentist during timeother than the school day. When this isnot possible, try to schedule appointments early or late in the school day inorder for your child to attend the majority of the school day. If there is a custody issue, parents mustprovide proof of custody in the school office and name those persons who canhave contact with their child. Studentsare not permitted to leave school with undesignated persons.
23. McNairy CountyInternet/Electronic Media Acceptable Use Policy Internet access is available to studentsand teachers in the McNairy County School System. Our goal in providing this service toteachers and students is to promote educational excellence in McNairy CountySchools by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication. The Internet is an electronic highwayconnecting thousands of computers all over the world and millions of individualsubscribers. Students and teachers haveaccess to, among other things: Ø Electronic mailcommunication with people all over the world. Ø Information andnews from research institutions. Ø Public domain andsoftware of all types. Ø Discussion groupson a variety of topics. Ø Access to manyUniversity Library Catalogs, the Library of Congress, CARL, and ERIC. With access to computers and people allover the world also comes the availability of material that may not beconsidered to be of educational value in the context of the schoolsetting. Available precautions will betaken to restrict access to controversial materials. However, on aglobal network it is impossible to control all materials and an industrioususer may discover controversial information, but the valuable information andinteraction available on this worldwide network far outweighs the possibilitythat users may procure material that is not consistent with the educationalgoals of this project. Ultimately,parents and guardians are responsible for getting and conveying the standardsthat their children should follow on the use of the Internet, just as they doon the use of all media information services. Use of the Internet must be insupport of education and research and consistent with the educationalobjectives of the school district. Useof other organization’s network or computing resources must comply with therules appropriate for that network. Transmission of any material in violation of any U.S. or state regulation isprohibited. This includes, but is notlimited to: copyrighted material,threatening or obscene material, or material protected by a trade secret. Use for private purposes or commercialactivities is not acceptable. Anyillegal use for product advertising or political lobbying is alsoprohibited. Any use which violatesexisting Board Policy or public law is prohibited. Use of Internet is a privilege, not aright, and inappropriate use will result in cancellation of these privileges,and could result in disciplinary action against the user. The system administrators will deem what isinappropriate use and their decision is final. Also, the administration may deny access at any time, as required. Classroom teachers will familiarize theirstudents with this acceptable use policy. Each parent, student, and teacher will sign a form which details termsand conditions of Internet use prior to students’ use of the Internet inclassrooms/labs. Teachers are requiredto provide students training regarding safe and appropriate use ofInternet. Parents are required toparticipate in Internet Safety Training provided by the school and/or schoolsystem.
24. MedicalConditions/Medication Policy Special medical conditions (allergies, physical handicaps,medications, etc.) must be reported to the child’s teacher and to the schooloffice. Such conditions must also beexplained on the student registration form. Law prohibits the school from dispensingany kind of medicine, including aspirin or topical ointment. If a student is required to take medicationprescribed by a physician, a doctor’s authorization notice must be brought byparent/guardian with the medicine, with specific directions for administeringthe medicine. Medication shall be administered onlywhen the student’s health requires that it be given during school hours. It is the parent’s responsibility to bringthe medication to school and to remove any unused medication when the treatmentis completed. All prescription medication must bebrought to school in the original container. The pharmacy label must include the following information: Name of Student; Prescription Number; Name ofMedication and Dosage; Administration route or other directions; Possible sideeffects; Date; Licensed prescriber’s name; and Pharmacy name, address, and phone number. All non-prescription medication must be brought to theschool office by a parent in an unopened original manufacturer’s labeled containerwith the ingredients listed and the child’s name affixed to the container. Parents must complete a consent form at theoffice. No more than one month’s supply of anymedication should be brought to school. No student is permitted to transport medicine to and from school. 25. Money (Lunch, Milk Break,& Supplies) Students pay their breakfast and lunchmoney as they go through the lunch line in the cafeteria. Eachstudent keys in his/her assigned “mealnumber”.. In accordance with McNairyCounty Board policy, students may have no more then five consecutive charges for meals. Milk money for milk break is collected bythe child’s teacher. It is preferredthat your child bring lunch and breakfast money, as well as milk money, for theentire week, rather than one day at a time. When sending money for different items, such as meals, milk, supplies,etc., please send the amount of money or the check for each item separately –preferably in an envelope, with child’s name, amount of money enclosed, andwhat the money is intended to purchase. When all money is combined, the teacher must take time from the teachingschedule to make change and to separate lunch/breakfast, milk, and supplymoney. Supplies, such as tablets, notebook paper, folders,pencils, and erasers, may be purchased from the school office each morningfollowing the morning announcements.
26. Parent-Teacher Conference OneParent-Teacher Conference is scheduled in the school calendar in October ofeach year, and other conferences are encouraged as either the parent or teacherfeels the need. Communication betweenthe parent and teacher is extremely useful in providing information to assistin the overall development of the child. A conference may be scheduled by calling the school office or sending anote to your child’s teacher. When a student is moved from Tier I (makingadequate progress) to Tier II (having strategic needs) or to Tier III (havingsome intensive needs), the parent is invited to an “S-Team” (support team) meeting where the parent and teachers discussthe student’s academic needs and plan interventions to meet academic concernsfor that student.
27. Parent-Teacher Organization TheSelmer Elementary PTO has been exemplary in supporting the programs of ourschool. – approximately $15,,000 israised annually for the school copier, new computers, art supplies, Accelerated Reader, and otherschool needs. All parents, grandparents, guardians, andinterested citizens are encouraged to become members of this worthwhileorganization and to attend PTO meetings. The annual membership drive is held in August. The PTO meets five times per year, with eachgrade presenting a musical program at its assigned meeting. Meeting notices are posted on the school calendarsent home each month, as well as included at the front of this handbook.
28. Playground Rules Students are scheduled for thirty minutes physicaleducation each day. When weather doesnot permit students to go to the playground, the gym is used for indoororganized activities. The followingplayground rules are necessary in order to insure the safety of each child: Ø Students walk quietly in a line to and from physicaleducation. Ø Students useplayground equipment properly. Ø Students taketurns on playground equipment. Ø Students must notclimb on the fence. Ø Students staywithin the fenced area unless otherwise directed and supervised by P.E.teachers. Ø If unsure aboutan activity or someone’s behavior, make the P.E. teacher aware. Immediately report to P.E. teacher any unsafestudent behavior. Ø Students line upquietly at the end of P.E. class andwait for a teacher to escort classes back to the classrooms. Ø Remember, classesare going on in rooms all along walkway. Show respect by going quietly to and from physical education classes. Ø If a child isunable to participate in P.E. classes, he/she must have a signed note fromparent or doctor.
29. Promotion and Retention In accordance with the McNairy County Board ofEducation policy, the professional staff at Selmer Elementary is expected toplace students at the grade level best suited to the student’s academic,social, and emotional development. Students will normally progress from grade to grade. Retentions will be made when, in the judgmentof the teacher and principal, such retentions are in the best educationalinterest of the students involved. Retentionswill be made only after prior notification to each student’s parent orguardian. Students in Kindergarten through fourth grade areadministered benchmark assessmentsthree times during the school year. Although not directed to do so by the McNairy County Board of Education,the administration and faculty at Selmer Elementary School willinclude consideration of benchmark test results when making a determination ofa student’s academic readiness for promotion to the next grade level. For students to be promoted to the next grade levelthey must satisfactorily complete the following subject requirements: Kindergartenthrough Grade Four – Students must demonstrate satisfactory knowledge andskills in grades K-2 and score a minimum of at least 70 in grades 3-4 inReading, Mathematics, and Language (Spelling, grammar, writing, vocabulary,etc.) Failure to benchmark expectations will result in students beingretained or attending the summer academy. The student’s classroom teacher or teachers will make therecommendation for retention to the school administration. The school administration will make the finaldecision. Parents that disagree with thedecision may appeal as follows: Step1: Promotion committee (3-membercommittee consisting of a county supervisor, teacher, and guidance counselor. Step2: Director of Schools Step3: Board of Education Tuition for summer academywill be charged per Selmer Elementary student at a rate of $50.00 for the month. Students who receive free/reduced meals mayask that tuition be waived, Student transportation to and from the summer academywill be the responsibility of the parents/guardian. Rules for successful completion of the summer academywill be completed by the summer academy committee and communicated to allstudents that attend. Regular attendanceis required.
30. Report Cards – Grading Report cards are issued four times each year. These evaluations will indicate the student’sprogress and performance levels for each grading period. The report card must be signed by theparent/guardian and returned promptly to school. The Board of Education believes that the issuance ofgrades serves to promote continuous evaluation of student performance, toinform the student and his/her parents of the student’s performance, and toprovide a basis for bringing about achange, when necessary, in student performance. The basic grading system for Grade K shall be: + Knowledgeand skills are well-developed and can be applied independently. Knowledgeand skills are developing satisfactorily; additional practice needed. Basicknowledge and skills have not been developed satisfactorily. Thebasic grading system for Grade 1 andGrade 2 shall be: E Exemplary S Satisfactory N Performance in Need of Improvement U Unsatisfactory Apercentage grading system shall not be used in K-2. Conductfor K-2 shall be marked as follows: E Exemplary S Satisfactory N Performance in Need of Improvement U Unsatisfactory
Thegrading system for Grade 3 isas follows: The basic grading system forGrade 3 in reading, English, spelling, and math are the same as grade 4. The basic grading system for Grade3 in science, social studies, and health and safety, handwriting, music, art,and physical education shall be the same as grade 2. Citizenship grades are based onbehavior and should not be deducted from scholastic grades. Citizenship grades shall be marked : Good,Fair, Poor. Thegrading scale for letter/numerical grades used in grades 3 & 4 conforms tothe scale adopted by the State Department of Education, which supportsconsistent grading in all Tennesseepublic schools: A 93– 100 B 85 - 92 C 75 - 84 D 70 - 74 F Below 70 The promotion/retentionpolicy adopted by the board of education states that a student in K-4 who doesnot have satisfactory performance will be required to attend a summer academyduring the month of June. Benchmark testing results will also be consideredwhen determining if a student is recommended or required to attend summerschool.
31. School Safety Inspectionsand Safety Plans Yourchild’s safety is a priority. The schoolhas carefully formulated fire and tornado plans and conducts drillsregularly. Selmer Elementary isinspected annually by the State Fire Marshall. Students practice fire drills. All staff has a plan of action in the event a fire should occur. Atornado plan is practiced in the classrooms, and all staff members are aware oftheir responsibilities in the event of a tornado watch or warning. A Health Inspector regularly inspectsthe cafeteria and all buildings and walkways throughout the school. An inspection report is on file in the schooloffice and is posted in the cafeteria. The school has a detailed plan in theevent a disgruntled or armed person enters the campus. The plan is outlined in the Faculty Handbookand has been discussed frequently during faculty meetings. In the event of a bomb threat, studentswill be evacuated using the fire evacuation routes. All teachers are informed to take students asfar away from buildings as possible. Signs are posted to inform persons ofweapons’ laws – state law prescribes a maximum penalty of six yearsimprisonment and a fine not to exceed $3000.00 for carrying weapons on schoolproperty. Selmer Elementary is a smoke-freecampus. Adults may not use tobaccowithin fifty feet of any building. Cameras have been installed to monitor thecampus. Visitors are required to enter through the school office. Gates will not open prior to 7:15 A.M. 32. SpecialPrograms Aspecial education resource program is available for a student who is determinedto have a learning disability. AResponse to Intervention program is implemented to identify students withstrategic and intensive needs. When astudent has completed the Tier IIIintervention process and is not making academic progress on benchmarkassessments and classroom performance, ameeting is scheduled with the parents, teachers, and county-wide RTIcoordinator. The Support Team determinesif a referral for additional interventions or a referral for testing isnecessary. With permission by parentsand with consensus by members on the support team, further testing may be administeredby a licensed psychological examiner. Speech and language therapy is availablefor those students who have identified speech and language problems. Referrals may be made by teachers or parents. Intervention personnel provide assistanceto those students with intensive needs who have not successfully metgrade-level benchmarks. Interventionsare provided by school interventionists and/or classroom teachers to those studentswith strategic or intensive needs. Theseinterventions are provided in addition to ninety minutes language artsinstruction and sixty minutes math instruction. A TACS class is available for thosestudents who excel academically and who meet requirements set forth by theState Department of Education. The Project BASIC class is available forstudents who are experiencing emotional and social problems, with the provisionof classroom, individual, and small-group counseling. A guidance program is implemented at Selmer Elementary School. Students receive group counseling one day each week, and referrals forindividual counseling may be made by parents, teachers, and students. A Student Assistance Program (SAP) isavailable to identify, intervene, and assist students whose problems affect performance inacademics and behavior in the school environment.
33. Student Dress Although Selmer Elementary has no formaldress code and leaves the responsibility to parents for dressing and groomingtheir children, the cooperation of parents is expected. Students will be expected to keepthemselves well-groomed and neatly dressed at all times. Any form of dress which is consideredcontrary to good hygiene, or which is disruptive in appearance and detrimentalto the purpose or conduct of the school, will not be permitted. Shorts of appropriate size and length areacceptable for all grades. Bare midrifftops and halter tops are not permitted. Hats, caps, and bandanas cannot be worn at school. Apparel which depicts violence is not permitted. Shirts with offensive language or picturesare not acceptable. Muscle tank shirtsand mesh shirts are not permitted. Parentsare also asked to refrain from coming onto the school campus with t-shirts,caps, etc., which exhibit violence and/or offensive language. 34. Telephone, Cell Phones,Electronic Devices Students can not use the telephone unlessgiven permission by the school office personnel. Permission will be granted for illness,emergency situations, or with written request by the child’s parent orteacher. Students cannot possess cell phones andelectronic devices at school. A cellphone or electronic game/device taken up will only be returned to the parent,and any future student possession of a cell phone or electronic game/device mayresult in that device being kept in the school office for a reasonable periodof time.
35. Tick Removal Policy School staff members do not removeembedded ticks. If a tick is embeddedinto the skin, then it will be covered with a bandage and the office personnelwill attempt to notify the parent/guardian. The parent/guardian may come to school to remove the tick. If the parent cannot be reached, then a notewill be sent home with the student, documenting where the tick is embedded andwhat was done at school. 36. Transportation Change Parents must call the office or send a note to thechild’s teacher when there is any transportation change, specifically when ridinga different bus. If no notification is received, you child will follow his/her regularmethod of getting home. Parents are required also to send a note if a personother than the parent is picking up the child. Parents cannot drop off car riders earlier than 7:15 A.M., or leave car-riding students in thegym later than 3:40 P.M.
37. Visitors All visitors on the Selmer Elementarycampus must report first to the school office. Visitors, including parents andvolunteers, will sign in at the school office. Upon leaving the campus, thevisitor will return the badge to the office and sign out. Visitors are welcome anytime, but anappointment keeps interruptions to instruction at a minimum. Brothers, sisters, and friends are notpermitted to visit with the student during the school day. Parents may bring younger children toassembly programs and special events (Book Fair, Fall Carnival, Spring Fling). A forgotten item, such as a lunchbox, anassignment, or a book should be brought to the school office. Classes may not be interrupted after 8:00 A.M. The item will be placed in the teacher’smailbox to be picked up when the teacher comes to the office. 38. Withdrawal and TransferProcedure The procedure for withdrawal and transfer of studentsis as follows: Ø Obtainappropriate forms at the school office. Ø Have formscompleted by the classroom teacher, return all books and school property, andbe sure all fees are paid. Ø Take completedforms back to the school office for final clearance. Ø If all textbooksand library books are returned, and all debts are paid, records can be sentimmediately to your child’s new school. 39. SELMER ELEMENTARY FAMILY ENGAGEMENT POLICY GENERAL Thisschool parent involvement policy has been developed and agreed upon withparents of SES students. It will bereviewed and updated annually as needed to meet the changing needs of parentsand our school. Names of individualsinvolved in the development of this policy are on file in the principal’soffice. A copy of this policy will begiven to parents each year.
PARENTAL COMMENTSComments by parents ofparticipating children concerning dissatisfaction with the LEA plan shall beattached to the LEA plan when submitted to the State.
POLICY INVOLVEMENTTwo annual meetings, towhich all parents shall be invited and encouraged to attend, will be held eachyear. The meetings will be held at atime convenient to parents. At thesemeetings this policy, the availability of information concerning teachers’credentials, legal requirements, and the parents’ rights to involved will beexplained. In addition to the annualmeetings, a flexible number (minimum of two) of meetings for parents will beoffered throughout the year (Parent Visitation, Open House, four meetings ofthe Parent-Teacher Organization). Parents are involved in an organized,ongoing, and timely way, in the planning, review, and improvement of the TitleI School-wide Program, including the school parental involvement policy throughsuch means as meetings, conferences, written/oral communications, needsassessments, and parent meetings. Through such means as the Open House, ParentTeacher Conferences, monthly newsletter, parent meetings, formal and informalcontacts, publications in local newspaper, local report cards, STAR reports,and State reports, parents of participating children are provided: …timely information about thetitle I School-wide Program; …information about andinterpretation of the school’s and child’s performance; …a description and explanationof the curriculum, assessment measures, and proficiency expectations for students; …opportunities to shareexperiences, offer suggestions, and, as appropriate, participate indecisions relating to the education of their children; and …timelyresponses to their suggestions.
SHARED RESPONSIBILITIES FOR HIGH STUDENT PERFORMANCESelmer Elementary Schoolhas jointly developed with parents of students a School-parent Compact thatoutlines how parents, the school staff, and students share the responsibilityfor improved student achievement and the means by which the school and parentswill build and develop a partnership to help children achieve the State’s highstandards. The compact describes the school’sresponsibility to provide high quality curriculum and instruction in asupportive and effective learning environment that enables students to meet theState’s student performance standards, and the ways in which each parent willbe responsible for supporting his/her children’s learning. The importance of communicationbetween teachers and parents on an ongoing basis is stressed in the compactthrough such means as urging parents to attend parent-teacher conferencesduring which the compact will be discussed as it relates to each child’sachievement and urging teachers to send parents frequent reports on theirchildren’s progress. At Selmer Elementary School, parents are given reasonable access tostaff, provided opportunities to volunteer and participate in their child’sclass and observe classroom activities. BUILDING CAPACITY FOR INVOLVEMENTTo ensure effectiveinvolvement of parents and to support apartnership among the school, parents, and the community to improve studentachievement, Selmer Elementary School throughsuch means as meetings, conferences, Partners in Education, workshops andwritten and oral communications: …provides assistance to parentsin such areas as understanding the National Education Goals, the State’scontent standards and State student performance standards, State and localassessments, parent involvement requirements, and how to monitor a child’sprogress and work with educators to improve the performance of their children,as well as information on how to participate in decisions relating to theeducation of their children; …provides materials coordinatingnecessary literacy training from other sources and provides training to helpparents work with their children to improve their children’s achievement; …educates teachers, pupilservices personnel, the principal and other staff, with the assistance ofparents, in the value and utility of contributions of parents, and in how toreach out, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners, implementand coordinate parent programs, and build ties between home an school; …coordinates and integratesparent involvement programs and activities with Head Start, Even Start, andother programs to the extent feasible and appropriate; …develops appropriate roles for community-basesorganizations and businesses in parent involvement activities includingproviding information about opportunities for organizations and businesses towork with parent and schools, and encouraging the formation of partnershipsbetween schools, and local businesses that include a role for parents; …conducts other activities, asappropriate and feasible, that are designed to help parents become fullpartners in the educations of their children such as a parent resource centerand providing opportunities for parents to learn about child development andchild rearing issues; …ensures, to the extentpossible, that information related to school and parent programs, meetings, andother activities is sent to the homes of students in the language used in suchhomes (translations;) and …provides such other reasonablesupport (timely response) for parental involvement activities as parents mayrequest.
ACCESSIBILITYIn carrying out parentalinvolvement requirements, Selmer Elementary School, to theextent practicable, provides full opportunities for the participation ofparents with limited English proficiency or with disabilities, includingproviding information and school profiles in a language and form such parentsunderstand.
40. SELMER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL-PARENT COMPACT SCHOOL MISSION: The mission of Selmer Elementary Schoolis to instill a love for learning in the heart of every child we touch so thateach one will grow to be a life-long learner. SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY: At Selmer Elementary School,we are committed to provide experiences for students that enable them todevelop the skills and attitudes that are necessary for becoming productive,responsible citizens in an ever-changing society. Each student needs to achieve and to excel insome way in order to enhance a positive, worthwhile concept abouthimself/herself. Parents, school and community mustjointly share responsibility in the leaning and growing process of ourchildren. HAND IN HAND WE CAN LEARN AND WORK TOGETHER TO BUILDA BETTER WORLD. AS A TEACHER, I will …believe that each student canlearn …show respect for each child andhis/her family …come to class prepared to teach …provide an environmentconducive to learning …help each child grow to his/herfullest potential …provide frequent information toparents on their child’s progress …provide high quality curriculumand instruction …enforce school and classroomrules fairly and consistently …maintain open lines ofcommunication with students and their parents …seek ways to involve parents inthe school program …demonstrate professionalbehavior and a positive attitude
AS A STUDENT, I will …attend school regularly …always try to do my best in mywork and in my behavior …work cooperatively with myclassmates …show respect for myself, myschool and other people …obey the school rules …take pride in my school AS A PARENT/GUARDIAN, Iwill …see that my child attendsschool regularly and on time …support the school in itsefforts to maintain proper discipline …provide a home environment thatencourages my child to learn …communicate often with mychild’s teacher …talk with my child abouthis/her school activities every day …encourage my child to read athome and to monitor his/her TV viewing …volunteer time at my child’sschool …attend parent-teacherconferences …show respect and support for mychild, the teachers and the school AS A PRINCIPAL, Iwill …provide an environment thatallows for positive communication between the teacher, parent and student …encourage teachers to provideinformation about student progress Hand inHand we will work together to carry out the agreement of this contract.
41. Unsafe SchoolChoice Policy/Transfer Option for Students Victimized by Violent Crime atSchool Under the Tennessee StateBoard of Education’s Unsafe School Choice Policy, any public school student whois the victim of a violent crime as defined under Tennessee Code Annotated40-38-111(g) or the attempt to commit one of these offenses as defined underTennessee Code Annotated 39-12-101, shall be provided an opportunity totransfer to another grade level appropriate school within the district. 42. Parental Rights under No Child Left Behind Legislation As a parent of a student at aTitle I school, you have the right to know the professional qualifications ofthe classroom teachers who instruct your child. Specifically, you have the right to know · whether or notthe teacher is licensed and highly qualified for the grades and subjects he orshe teaches, · whether or notthe state department of education has decided that the teacher can teach in aclassroom without being licensed under state regulations because of specialcircumstances, · the teacher’scollege major; whether the teacher has any advanced degrees and, if so, thesubject of the degrees, · whether anyteachers’ assistants/paraprofessionals provide services to your child and, ifthey do, their qualifications. If you would like to receiveany of this information, please submit your written request to Director of Schools,170 W. Court Ave., Selmer, TN 38375.
43. Disorderly Conduct, Weapons,Tobacco, and Alcohol and Drug Abuse Disruptive behavior WILL NOTbe tolerated. Students shall not, at anytime, possess any dangerous weapon on school property, in school vehicles, orat any school sponsored activity. Violation of this policy or the possession, use, or attempt to selldrugs, alcohol, or tobacco will result in appropriate disciplinary action. (See McNairy County Code of Behaviorand Discipline Level I, II, III, and IV Misbehaviors for furtherclarification.)
44. McNairy County Code ofBehavior and Discipline (condensed) 1. Know and adhereto rules and regulations established by the Board of Education and the localschools and implemented by school administrators and teachers. 2. Respect the humandignity and worth of every other individual. 3. Study diligentlyand maintain the best possible level of academic achievement. 4. Be punctual andpresent in the regular school program. 5. Help maintain andimprove the school environment, preserve school and private property, andexercise care while using school facilities. 6. Refrain fromdisobedience or misconduct or behavior which would lead to any physical oremotional harm or that disrupts the educational process. The McNairy County Code ofBehavior and Discipline is available online at www.mcnairy.org. To request a printed copy, submit yourwritten request to Director of Schools, 170 W. Court Ave., Selmer, TN 38375.
45. StudentDiscrimination/Harassment and Bullying/Intimidation Students shall be provided alearning environment free from sexual, racial, ethnic and religiousdiscrimination/harassment. Likewise,students shall be provided a safe learning environment, free from bullying,intimidation or hostility. The McNairy County Board of Education policyregarding these matters is posted at www.mcnairy.org,McNairy County Online Policy Manual, Section 6.304. To request a printed copy of the policy,submit your written request to Director of Schools, 170 W. Court Ave., Selmer, TN 38375.
46. Notification of Rights underFERPA for Elementary and Secondary Schools The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents andstudents over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respectto the student’s education records. These rights are (1) The right toinspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the daythe school receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal awritten request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangementsfor access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and placewhere the records may be inspected. (2) The right torequest the amendment of the student’s education records that the parents oreligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violationof the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students whowish to ask the school to amend a record should write the school principal,clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why itshould be changed. If the school decidesnot to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the schoolwill notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them oftheir right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearingprocedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified ofthe right to a hearing. (3) The right toconsent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in thestudent’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizesdisclosure without consent. Oneexception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to schoolofficials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by theschool as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member(including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); aperson serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the schoolhas contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using its ownemployees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, ortherapist); or a parent or students serving on an official committee, such as adisciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official inperforming his or her tasks. A school officialhas a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review aneducation record in order to fulfill his or her professionalresponsibility. Upon request, the schooldiscloses education records without consent to officials of another schooldistrict in which a student seeks orintends to enroll. (4) The right to filea complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failuresby the school district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The office that administers FERPA is FamilyPolicy Compliance Office, U. S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-5920.
47. FERPA: Notice of Directory Information The McNairy County School System maydisclose certain information, known as directory information, without consent,in publications such as, but not limited to, the annual yearbook, honorroll/recognition lists, playbills, graduation programs, and sportsprograms. Parents or eligible studentsmay refuse to allow the school system/school to release this information. If you do not want this information released,you must visit the school office annually and complete the DirectoryInformation Opt Out Form within 10 days of the start of the school year orwithin 10 days of your student’s enrollment in the school. The System has designated thefollowing information as directory information: student’s name; address; date and place of birth; telephonelisting/number; electronic mail address; photograph/visual image; enrollmentinformation: major field of study, datesof attendance; grade level; participation in officially recognized activitiesand sports; weight and height of members of athletic teams; degrees, honors,and awards received; most recent educational agency or institution attended;other similar information that would not generally be considered harmful or aninvasion of privacy if disclosed. In addition, two federal laws requirelocal education agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with threedirectory information categories – name, address, and telephone listing –unless parents have advised the School that they do not want their student’sinformation disclosed without their prior written consent (by filling out aMilitary Recruitment Opt Out Form at the school office).
48. Parental Authorization andRelease Agreement for Student Publicity The McNairy County School Systemfrequently publicizes student accomplishments, honors/awards, projects, etc. inlocal and regional media. It isunderstood that parents grant the McNairy County School System permission touse the name, photograph, image, voice, written work, academic product, and/orquote of the student in media publicity prepared/allowed by the schoolsystem. The parent understands andagrees that the name, photograph, image, voice, written work, academic product,and/or quote may appear in a media publication (including any print media,television broadcast, multimedia presentation or website), which will bedistributed to/viewed by various groups and/or persons. The parent/guardian releases the Board,its agents and employees, including the Director of Schools, from any and allclaims, demands, damages, actions, causes of action, or suits of any kind ornature whatsoever, which may arise, or may in the future arise, from thepublication of the photograph, image, voice, and/or quote of the Child and/orthe dissemination of the name, photograph, image, voice, and/or quote by a mediaoutlet or on a website. To refuse to allow the McNairy CountySchool System to disseminate such publicity in any print, broadcast, orelectronic media, the parent must annually complete and sign theMedia/Publicity Opt Out Form in the school’s front office.
49. Notification of Rights Underthe Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) PPRA affords parents certain rightsregarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information formarketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to Consent before students are required tosubmit to a survey that concerns one of more of the following protected areas(“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part bya program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED) 1. Politicalaffiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; 2. Mental orpsychological problems of the student or student’s family; 3. Sex behavior orattitudes; 4. Illegal,anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; 5. Criticalappraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships; 6. Legallyrecognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, orministers 7. Religiouspractices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or 8. Income, otherthan as required by law to determine program eligibility. Receive notice and anopportunity to opt a student out of 1. Any otherprotected information survey, regardless of funding; 2. Anynon-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition ofattendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary toprotect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing,vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted orrequired under State law; and 3. Activitiesinvolving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained fromstudents for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information toothers. Inspect, upon request andbefore administration or use 1. Protectedinformation surveys of students; 2. Instruments usedto collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing,sales, or other distribution purposes; and 3. Instructionalmaterial used as part of the educational curriculum These rights transfer fromthe parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor underState law. The McNairy County School System hasdeveloped and adopted policies, in consultation with parents, regarding theserights as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administrationof protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use ofpersonal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. The School/System will directly notifyparents of these policies at least annually at the start of each school yearand after any substantive changes. TheSchool/System will also directly notify, such as through U.S. Mail or email,parents of students who are scheduled to participate in the specific activitiesor surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the parent to opthis or her child out of participation in the specific activity or survey. The School/System will make this notificationto parents at the beginning of the school year if the System has identified thespecific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled afterthe school year starts, parents will be provided reasonable notification of theplanned activities and surveys listed below and be provided an opportunity toopt their child out of such activities and surveys. Following is a list of the specificactivities and surveys covered under this requirement:
Parents who believe theirrights have been violated may file a complaint with the Family PolicyCompliance Office, U. S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-5902
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