Handbook
New Market Handbook available for download HERE.
New Market Elementary School Student Handbook - Online View
- WELCOME
- PURPOSE OF HANDBOOK
- JEFFERSON COUNTY AND NEW MARKET SCHOOL MISSION AND VISION
- NEW MARKET SCHOOL SCHEDULE AND HOURS
- EARLY DISMISSAL
- MAIN OFFICE
- PARENTS/VISITORS
- PARKING
- SALE OF ITEMS/ADVERTISING
- ASSEMBLIES
- CAFETERIA
- CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
- CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR TELEPHONE NUMBER
- CLINIC
- HEALTH POLICY
- LICE POLICY (Board Policy 6.4031)
- FIELD TRIPS (Board Policay 4.302)
- PARENT VOLUNTEERS (Board Policy 4.501)
- GUIDANCE OFFICE
- COMPUTERS/ONE-TO-ONE TECHNOLOGY
- INTERNET USAGE (Board Policy 4.406)
- LIBRARY
- PHYSICAL EDUCATION
- AFTER SCHOOL EVENTS
- HALLWAYS
- TEACHER WORKROOM
- STUDENT SEARCHES TCA (49-6-4204)
- SCHOOL CLOSINGS AND DELAYS
- SCHOOL SAFETY
- STUDENT DELIVERIES/PARTIES
- STUDENT VALUABLES
- STUDENT WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL
- TELEPHONE MESSAGES
- TEXTBOOKS
- CHILD CUSTODY/PARENTAL ACCESS (Board Policy 6.209)
- HOMEWORK
- MAKE-UP WORK (Board Policy 6.200)
- INTERVENTIONS
- INTERVENTIONS
- PARENT AND FAMILY CONFERENCES
- REPORTING STUDENT PROGRESS (Board Policy 4.601)
- STUDENT FOLDERS
- TESTING PROGRAMS (Board Policy 4.700)
- DISTRICT ASSESSMENTS
- ATTENDANCE
- STUDENT CONDUCT
- SPECIFIC DISCIPLINE POLICIES
- ATHLETICS AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
WELCOME
Welcome to the new school year at New Market Elementary School! We are excited about the coming year and look forward to working with you to help your children grow academically, socially, and emotionally. At New Market, we believe that this partnership is extremely important in a child’s educational success.
Please review the information in this handbook carefully. Important guidelines, policies, and procedures used in Jefferson County Schools and at New Market School have been included for your easy reference. Please note that the information in this student handbook is not inclusive of all Jefferson County School Board policies and is subject to change through administrative decision and/or school board action.
If you have any questions or need clarification for any policy or procedure, please feel free to contact the school. The staff of New Market School looks forward to an exciting and successful year for our students and their families.
PURPOSE OF HANDBOOK
This handbook has been prepared as a guide and source of information for the following purposes:
- To develop a code for students.
- To provide direction for self-discipline and a desirable self-image.
- To enter into a partnership with the home in sharing responsibility.
- To assist in making decisions.
- To keep the community informed and supportive.
- To provide information on school policies and procedures.
JEFFERSON COUNTY AND NEW MARKET SCHOOL MISSION AND VISION
Jefferson County Schools’ Mission: Success and productivity for every student in Jefferson County.
Jefferson County Schools’ Vision: We will ensure success for every student through high quality, standards-based curriculum, highly effective instruction, balanced and reliable measurement, and targeted response to learning.
NM mission: Provide the environment and the resources to enable ALL students to achieve their full potential. We foster respect, responsibility, and teamwork. We strive to develop in our students a love for lifelong learning.
- Be Respectful: of others and yourself
- Be Responsible: with your words, actions, behavior and with belongings
- Be Engaged: with others and the learning process
- Be Prepared: be here on time, with your belongings and ready to learn
NEW MARKET SCHOOL SCHEDULE AND HOURS
Doors will be unlocked at 7:15 each morning for early student drop-off. Students should not be dropped off and will not be allowed to enter the building before 7:15. Upon entering the building, students must report to their assigned areas or report to the cafeteria for breakfast. They may not go to unsupervised areas of the building during this time. Breakfast begins at 7:15 on regular school days. Grades 3-5 will immediately eat breakfast then move to their classrooms; grades K-2 will put backpacks in classrooms then return to breakfast.
Pre-K begins school at 8:15 and is dismissed at 2:15. Arriving Pre-K students enter the building through the front doors adjacent to the commons area. Students will be greeted by their teacher and eat breakfast before entering their classroom.
K-5 students who arrive at school after 8:05 will be considered tardy and must enter through the main office; staff will continue to greet students at the gym entrance until 8:10, but after that time, parents will have to pull to the front and walk their child in. Parents will have to park in a visitor parking place and not enter into the Pre-K drop off line. Parents will not be allowed to check students out in the front office after 2:20 P.M. Parents who wish to pick their child up early must do so before 2:20 P.M. Parents will not be admitted into the building after that time for student pick up. Students will be dismissed at 3:00 P.M each day. Students who are car riders will be issued a car rider tag with their child’s name. Parents are required to clearly display their car rider tag to school personnel; if no car rider tag is seen, parents will need to sign their child out through the front office.
Buses and K-2 car riders will be dismissed at 3:00.
Car riders in grades 3-5 will be dismissed at 3:10.
Note: A student going home by any other means than his/her normal transportation must have a note signed and dated by a parent/guardian. This note should be turned in to the student’s first period teacher. Office staff will verify the change and return the note to the student at the end of the day. Students must show these notes to the bus driver before getting on a bus.
EARLY DISMISSAL
Early dismissals disrupt the learning day and are strongly discouraged. The front doors of the school will always be locked. Students will not be dismissed after 2:20 P.M. each day. Please make sure you have a valid I.D.; you will be asked to show your identification each time you pick up your child. No exceptions. Parents are to enter only at the front entrance of the school. Please press the button and announce your name and show your I.D. Please let the front office staff know whom you are picking up. Students will be called to the office based on the information provided to the front office staff. Parents will then wait for their child to meet them in the waiting area. If you send someone else to sign your child out, please contact the school in advance to give permission (signed and dated written permission is necessary). This is for your child’s protection. Visitors must enter the school only through the front door.
Note: A student going home by any other means than his/her normal transportation must have a note signed and dated by a parent/guardian. This note should be turned in to the student’s first period teacher. Office staff will verify the change and return the note to the student at the end of the day. Students must show these notes to the bus driver before getting on a bus.
MAIN OFFICE
Students and/or parents must report to the main office to do the following things:
- Enroll in school
- Turn in a note for an absence
- Check in (if tardy for first period)/check out for early dismissal
- Report a student accident
- Obtain an application for free/reduced meals
- Check for lost items
- Obtain insurance forms
- Withdraw from school
PARENTS/VISITORS
All parents and visitors must sign in at the office first. For the protection of our students, our front doors are locked at all times. We must insist that all visitors enter the building by the exterior front door and immediately go to the office to sign in and receive a visitor’s pass. Parents and visitors who do not sign in will be requested to return to the office to do so. Students will only be called to the office to see a visitor in cases of extreme emergency. Students may not bring guests to our school.
Parents may NOT go into their child’s classroom during the school day to speak with a teacher, as this interrupts the instructional program. They may request an appointment by calling the school, sending a note, or emailing the teacher.
Parents may NOT go into a classroom at the beginning or the end of the day. This time is dedicated to preparation for the day and other necessary tasks. Immediate concerns will be relayed to teachers by the office staff, and teachers will respond as soon as possible.
Parents who eat lunch with students are allowed only in the commons during the time of the child’s lunch. Their driver’s license must be scanned upon entering the building if going past the reception area.
PARKING
Parking will be allowed in the front of the building in spaces marked for visitors.
Because of traffic and parking limitations, parents are urged to leave students at designated entrances during morning drop-off. Parents will not be permitted to park in the front to drop off/pick up their children during regular drop-off/pick-up times.
In the afternoons, no visitors should be parked in front of the school between 2:15 P.M. and 3:45 P.M. This is a bus loading zone and must be kept open for buses. Car riders will be dismissed at 3:00 P.M. from the gym side entrance.
Please DO NOT drive through the FRONT parking lot while buses are loading or unloading, as there are children moving through that parking lot. State law requires all vehicles to stop if the school bus stop sign is displayed.
SALE OF ITEMS/ADVERTISING
School pictures and yearbooks are available at appropriate times of the year. The price of these items is determined by the cost of production. Fundraising sales are held as needed on a school-wide basis and by designated school groups and clubs. Students are not permitted to sell items of their own or to raise funds for other organizations during the school day or on school property, including school buses.
Flyers or other types of advertising from groups not affiliated with the school will not be allowed except with express approval of the Director of Schools.
ASSEMBLIES
Assemblies are a regularly scheduled part of the curriculum and, as such, are designed to be educational as well as entertaining experiences. They provide one of the few opportunities in school to learn formal audience behavior. Regardless of the type of program, courtesy demands that the student body be respectful and appreciative. In live entertainment—unlike radio, television, or movies—the performers are very conscious of their audience. Talking, whispering, whistling, stomping of feet, and booing are discourteous and therefore not permitted. Yelling is appropriate only at pep rallies.
Those who wish to attend programs during the school day must be listed for a student in Aspen. Forms will be sent home prior to assemblies to gather information about who would like to attend the program; administration will inform parents of anyone who might be ineligible to attend prior to the assembly. The day of the assembly, spectators will be asked to show identification prior to entering the building.
CAFETERIA
Breakfast and lunch are offered daily in our cafeteria for a nominal cost. Every effort should be made not to charge meals; however, in such cases lunch and breakfast charges shall not exceed five (5) days in length per student. After the fifth day of charges, the student will not be permitted to purchase ala cart items. (Board Policy 3.500).
Free or reduced meal prices are available to those students who meet the criteria. Applications for free/reduced meals are available in the main office and must be approved by the administration. Extra items (such as chips or ice cream) are also available for purchase but are to be paid for with cash only and do not qualify as part of the free/reduced menu.
Families may find assistance with applying for free or reduced-price school meals by contacting the Student Nutrition Office at 865-397-3945.
Parents may pay for their children’s lunch online through My Payments Plus. Go to http://jc-school.net, and under the district section, click on “Pay lunch accounts here.” This will take parents to the My Payments website, where an account can be set up. Please call the school if there are any questions.
CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Students are responsible for the proper care of all books, supplies, technology, and furniture supplied by the school. Students who disfigure property, break windows, or cause damage to school property or equipment will be required to pay for the damage or to replace the item. Disciplinary action will also be taken. Any unlawful act taking place on the school grounds or on buses not only makes the student subject to penalties which the courts may prescribe, but also could result in suspension or dismissal from school.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR TELEPHONE NUMBER
CLINIC
A school nurse is available to assist students with medical needs. Medications should be kept in the clinic with the school nurse. Students may not carry medicine of any kind throughout the school day. Parents, not students, should bring in and pick up all medications. All prescriptions shall bear the name of the medication, directions for administration, and the name of the student. A medication administration form must be filled out and signed by a physician before medication can be given by the nurse. A parent must complete a Self-Administration of Medication form that can be obtained from the child’s teacher or the school nurse. School personnel cannot provide medication such as aspirin or Tylenol for students. Medicines (Board Policy 6.405)
HEALTH POLICY
Any physical disorder should be explained to the teacher at the beginning of the school year. Medical or dental appointments should not be made during school hours. Students should not return to school after a contagious disease until the doctor says it is safe. No student shall be excused from regular participation in the physical education program except by a physician’s written statement.
In order for a student to be excused from school due to medical reasons, the student must be counted present for that school day. No student that reports to the clinic first thing in the morning with parent/guardian will be excused. The following are medical reasons in which the child will be sent home:
- Fever of 100.4 or greater
- Vomiting (noted by school nurse or teacher)
- Head injury
- Injury received at school that requires further medical care
- Undiagnosed rashes
- 2 or more episodes of diarrhea
LICE POLICY (Board Policy 6.4031)
It shall be the duty of the principal of the school to exclude from school any child who is infested with nits or live lice. The educational program of the students will be restricted only to the extent necessary to minimize the risk of transmitting the infestation. Therefore, the following policy shall be in effect:
- The principal or designee should notify the parent by telephone upon finding nits or lice and request the student be removed from the school no later than the end of the school day for immediate treatment. If parents are unavailable to pick up students then they may ride school transportation home.
- Parents or guardians picking up students who have been identified with nits or lice shall be shown the infestation evidence and given appropriate information regarding treatment of the child, other family members, and the home environment.
- Upon exclusion, satisfactory evidence must be submitted to school personnel that the student has been treated for pediculosis (head lice). This evidence may include but is not limited to proof of treatment with a pediculicide product, satisfactory exam by a principal, his/her designee, or a school nurse.
- Students that have been cleared of nits or lice will be re-examined in 7 calendar days (or closest school day if 7th day falls on weekend or holiday) by the principal's designee. Students found to have nits or head lice on re-examination will once again be excluded until they are lice free.
- The administration shall take steps to identify appropriate procedures for the control of lice outbreaks including records, personnel training, treatment of students, procedures for handling student clothing and other personal items and appropriate custodial procedures.
- Principals are authorized to provide up to three (3) excused absences (1 excused day per incident) annually for students who have lice infestations. In cases of chronic or recurring nits or lice infestation in a child or family, the principal should refer the family to an appropriate agency which may include one or more of the following: DCS/Juvenile Court/FRC/CIT.
- School personnel will only examine students with symptoms of nits or head lice. Whole class rooms will not be examined. Only parents of the affected child will be notified. Classroom or school wide notifications will NOT be sent out.
Approval to Return
A student is expected to return to school with proof of having met all requirements for treatment the day following exclusion per incident for nits or head lice. All additional days will be marked unexcused and excessive absences will be referred to the school attendance officer at the proper time according to school policy.
FIELD TRIPS (Board Policay 4.302)
Field trips designed to stimulate student interest and inquiry and to provide opportunities for social growth and development are considered appropriate extensions of the classroom.
To be educationally beneficial, a field trip requires thoughtful selection, careful advance preparation of the class, and opportunities for students to summarize the experience at the conclusion of the trip. To this end, teachers and principals will be expected to consider the following factors in selecting field trips:
- Value of the activity to the particular student group or groups
- Relationship of the field trip activity to a particular aspect of classroom instruction
- Suitability of the activity and distance traveled in terms of the age level
- Mode and availability of transportation; and
- Cost — Cost per student shall not be calculated so as to include the payment of the cost of any school personnel.
All students who wish to attend a school-sponsored field trip must have signed parent consent. All school rules apply on field trips. While we encourage student participation in field trips, alternative assignments will be provided for any student whose parent does not give permission to attend. Also, students who violate school rules may lose the privilege to go on field trips. Field trips that reward students may be planned by staff each semester. Students may only attend these field trips if they meet the requirements set forth regarding attendance, academics, and discipline (see Attendance, Discipline, and Homework for more information). Requirements for reward field trips will be set by a school committee. Administration reserves the right to determine other restrictions for field trips on a case-by-case basis.
PARENT VOLUNTEERS (Board Policy 4.501)
Parents who attend field trips are NOT allowed to supervise children other than their own child. Students must ride a school bus to the field trip destination. Parents may sign their child out after they arrive at the field trip location. Children may only be signed by those listed in Aspen. Once a student is signed out, that student is the responsibility of the parent; that parent must provide transportation from the field trip location.
Volunteers must complete the volunteer training annually and be cleared through a background screening. When in classrooms, volunteers may not teach but may reinforce skills taught by the professional staff.
GUIDANCE OFFICE
Megan Williams is our School Counselor. She is available to see students in classroom, small group, and individual sessions. Depending on grade level, students will receive 1-2 classroom lessons per month. Small groups and individual sessions are done as needed.
If a student needs to speak with Mrs. Williams, they simply need to ask their teacher, and he/she will let her know. Mrs. Williams will then get the student at a time that works with the student's schedule. Every effort is made to not pull students from instructional time.
Additionally, parents are welcome to contact the school counselor with any questions or concerns they may have regarding their students. The easiest way to reach Mrs. Williams is via email at mwilliams@jcboe.net or through ClassDojo. You may also call the school at 865-475-3551. If Mrs. Williams is unavailable when you call, she will return your call as soon as possible, usually within 24 hours.
Please note that while Mrs. Williams can work with your student for short sessions, school counseling is not traditional therapy. If you would like your student to be seen for a longer period of time, the school has a mental health counselor that comes to the school several times a week. If you would like your student referred to the mental health counselor, please reach out to Mrs. Williams for additional information.
COMPUTERS/ONE-TO-ONE TECHNOLOGY
Students will be assigned a computer when they enter New Market School in much the same way they are assigned textbooks. Students and parents must agree to the terms set forth in the Terms of Use and Device Agreements each year, and additionally must abide by all New Market School rules with regard to use of devices. Any intentional and/or malicious damage will NOT be covered by this plan, and students who cause this type of damage will be disciplined according to the Assertive Discipline Plan.
INTERNET USAGE (Board Policy 4.406)
Students in Jefferson County will participate in projects using the Internet in a directed manner to support curriculum and research activities. Teachers and students will use the Internet to participate in learning activities and locate material to meet their educational and personal information needs. The administration reserves the right to revoke a student’s Internet/computer privileges. These guidelines are provided so that you are aware of the responsibilities involved with using the Internet. Prohibited or illegal activities, including but not limited to:
- Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures
- Using obscene language
- Harassing, insulting, defaming or attacking others
- Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks
- Hacking or attempting unauthorized access
- Violation of copyrighted laws
- Trespassing in another’s folders, work or files
- Intentional misuse of resources
- Using another’s password or other identifier
- Use of the network for commercial purposes
- Buying or selling on the Internet
Any items produced by students will not be posted to the Internet without written parental permission. If permission is granted, items will be considered fair use and available to the public. A written parental request shall be required prior to a student’s being granted independent access to electronic media involving district technological resources. The form must be signed by the student and by the parent/legal guardian of any student under 18. This form shall be kept on file by the school as a legal, binding document. If the parent(s)/guardian(s) wish to rescind the agreement, they must do so in writing.
LIBRARY
The goal of the library is to provide resources for classroom and individual use in sufficient quantity, quality, and variety to implement the instructional program in all areas, and to support the development of the user.
New Market students go to the library as a part of the special area rotation. Books are checked out every week with one renewal. Students may not check out other books until they have turned their books in. Students in grades K-2 are allowed to check out one book and 3-5 may check out two books. Library skills, reference skills, and research skills are taught individually and in groups. Lost or damaged books must be paid for by the end of the school year. Students who owe books/fines will not be permitted to attend special activities or field trips. Books that are checked out by students are ultimately the parents’ responsibility; please help your child take good care of the books. However, if the librarian or classroom teacher sees fit, due to irresponsibility, that child or the child’s class may lose checkouts privileges for a period of time. It is the parent’s responsibility to make sure students have turned in their library materials. If you wish that your child not be allowed to check out books, please submit this request in writing to the school librarian, Ms. Reno.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
All students are required to wear appropriate clothing and tennis shoes on days for which your child is scheduled for physical education (P.E.) class. Any child not following this requirement may be asked to sit out during this time period and given an alternate assignment. Action may be taken by Ms. Kendrick, Physical Education Teacher, if a child consistently disregards this requirement. To be exempt for physical education, a doctor’s note must be provided restricting physical activity.
AFTER SCHOOL EVENTS
After school events may be held periodically throughout the year. Only New Market School students are permitted to school activities such as dances or practices; no guests will be allowed to attend with a student. Students are expected to follow all school rules and dress code regulations will be enforced. If a student is absent from school on the day of the dance, he/she will not be allowed to attend the activity. Students must be picked up on school property; students who are not picked up on time will not be allowed to attend the next event. For safety reasons, students may not walk home from after school events.
HALLWAYS
Students should move through the hallways in an orderly fashion at all times in order to keep disruption of learning to a minimum. Students shall not be in the hallways during class without a pass from their classroom teacher. Students out of class without a pass will be escorted back to their respective class. Students should always ask the teacher to issue a pass and sign out prior to leaving the classroom. Students should be in the hallway during class in emergencies only or on official classroom business, such as going to the library or office.
Horseplay will not be tolerated, and these behaviors will result in disciplinary action.
TEACHER WORKROOM
STUDENT SEARCHES TCA (49-6-4204)
Per Tennessee Code annotated, for the safety and security of all students and visitors on the New Market School Campus.
(b) Individual circumstances requiring a search may include incidents on school property, including school buses, involving, but not limited to, the use of dangerous weapons, drugs or drug paraphernalia by students that are known to the principal or other staff members, information received from law enforcement, juvenile or other authorities indicating a pattern of drug dealing or drug use by students of that school, any assault or attempted assault on school property with dangerous weapons or any other actions or incidents known by the principal that give rise to reasonable suspicion that dangerous weapons, drugs or drug paraphernalia are held on school property by one (1) or more students.
(c) A notice shall be posted in the school that lockers and other storage areas, containers, and packages brought into the school by students or visitors are subject to search for drugs, drug paraphernalia, dangerous weapons or any property that is not properly in the possession of the student.
(d) A notice shall be posted where it is visible from the school parking lot that vehicles parked on school property by students or visitors are subject to search for drugs, drug paraphernalia or dangerous weapons.
SCHOOL CLOSINGS AND DELAYS
In the event of severe weather, school may be closed or the starting time delayed. The same conditions may also necessitate early dismissal. This situation will be announced over local radio and television stations,
the Blackboard Alert System, as well as posted on the Jefferson County Schools website, http://jc-schools.net. If no report is heard, one can assume that school will be in session on a regular schedule. Please do not call the school. Telephone lines must remain open for emergencies.
SCHOOL SAFETY
Everyone has a responsibility to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment at school. These rights and responsibilities are listed below:
Students have a responsibility to report to their teacher or principal:
- Any student threats of violence, either direct or indirect, should be reported immediately.
- Any knowledge of alcohol, drugs, or weapons at school.
- Any suspicious/unknown person in or around the school.
- Any student uses gang symbolism.
- Any student issue involving bullying.
Administrators will report or cause to be reported to a child’s parent:
- Any violence or threats of violence from/or to the child.
- Any violation of tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or weapons policies by the child.
- Any student who leaves the school grounds without permission.
STUDENT DELIVERIES/PARTIES
In order to maintain a safe environment and prevent disruption of the school day, deliveries (flowers, balloons, singing telegrams, etc.) to students will NOT be allowed. Parents may send in a store-bought special treat for their student’s birthday, but please make arrangements with your child’s teacher prior to bringing in snacks. Special events and activities that correlate with subject material may be held at the discretion of the administration and will be shared ahead of time so parents can plan accordingly. Parents will drop off party supplies with the receptionist; parents may not attend classroom parties.
STUDENT VALUABLES
STUDENT WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL
When a student withdraws from school, regardless of the reason, the parent/legal guardian must come to the office to complete appropriate paperwork. A student transfer form must be completed and signed by all the student’s teachers and anyone else on the staff who might reasonably have a claim on fees, monies, books, and/or materials. A Release of Records form should be filled out and signed by the parent/guardian. This procedure provides a smoother transition to the new school.
TELEPHONE MESSAGES
TEXTBOOKS
Textbooks are provided to each student at no cost to the student. Students are accountable for all free textbooks. Students will be required to reimburse the Jefferson County School System for any books that are damaged, destroyed, stolen, or misplaced. If a student loses a book during the school year, he/she must pay for the lost book before another one can be issued. Classroom teachers and the librarian make the decisions regarding book damage.
CHILD CUSTODY/PARENTAL ACCESS (Board Policy 6.209)
The Board presumes that the person who enrolls a student in school is the student's custodial parent. Unless a Tennessee court specifies otherwise, the custodial parent shall be the one whom the school district holds responsible for the education and welfare of that child.
Parents or guardians shall have the right to receive information contained in school records concerning their minor child. The Board, unless informed otherwise, assumes there are no restrictions regarding the non-custodial parent's right to be kept informed of the student's progress and activities. If restrictions are made relative to the rights of the non-custodial parent, the custodial parent shall be requested to submit a certified copy of the court order which curtails these specific rights.
Unless there are specific court-imposed restrictions, the non-custodial parent, upon request, shall be given access to all of the student's educational records, including but not limited to, the student's cumulative file and the student's special education file, if applicable.
No principal or teacher shall permit a change in the physical custody of a child at school unless:
- The person seeking custody of the child presents the school official with a certified copy of a valid court order from a Tennessee court designating the person who has custody of the child; and
- The person seeking custody shall give the school official reasonable advance notice of his/her intent to take custody of the child at school.
All K-5 report cards are based on Tennessee state standards for what students are expected to know or perform for each grade level. A progress code of 1, 2, or 3 in regard to mastery of standards is explained and utilized on all Jefferson County Schools’ K-5 report cards.
In addition to standards progress, students in grades 3-5 receive a numerical achievement grade for reading, language arts, math, social studies, and science on grade cards. Please see the chart below
Grading Scale (Grades 3-12) http://jc-schools.net/Grading Policy.pdf
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HOMEWORK
Homework is often a necessary extension of classroom learning. Teachers may give assignments for a variety of purposes, and students are expected to bring homework assignments back to class according to the due date given by the teacher. Students should attempt all work to allow teachers an opportunity to examine the process and share feedback.
MAKE-UP WORK (Board Policy 6.200)
Students who have an absence are required to make up any work that they have missed. Getting make up work is the responsibility of the student immediately upon his/her return. In the event of an extended absence, special arrangements may be made through the office and/or the student’s homeroom teacher regarding make-up work. A zero or incomplete will be recorded for work that a student fails to make up.
In case of absence from school, a parent is asked to make arrangements to receive their child’s homework.
Students are expected to:
- complete each assignment to the best of their ability
- turn in assignments when they are due
- seek help when necessary
- adequately study for tests or quizzes announced by teachers
Parents are expected to:
- provide the environment necessary for the development and nurturing of good study habits
- closely monitor the quality and extent to which assignments are completed
INTERVENTIONS
In accordance with state guidelines, all New Market students will be screened through a universal process to determine what types of academic interventions must be made. An intervention time has been added to the schedule, and all students will receive focused instruction according to their needs during this time.
INTERVENTIONS
In accordance with state guidelines, all New Market students will be screened through a universal process to determine what types of academic interventions must be made. An intervention time has been added to the schedule, and all students will receive focused instruction according to their needs during this time.
PARENT AND FAMILY CONFERENCES
There are two designated conference dates during the school year for the purpose of discussing student progress or other pertinent information. Parents who would like to request additional meetings may make appointments for conferences with teachers by calling the school, sending the teacher an email or sending a note to the teacher. Conferences shall be physically accessible to all students, parents and/or guardians.
REPORTING STUDENT PROGRESS (Board Policy 4.601)
Student progress reports shall be provided at least once every 9 weeks for grades K-12. The reporting procedure shall be in writing and shall be uniform for all reporting periods during each school year.
Student progress reports shall indicate the students’ conduct, attendance and academic progress, and other information necessary to communicate effectively with the parents.
In addition to the regular progress reports, principals and teachers are encouraged to confer with parents on the educational progress of their children. All students in grades K-12 shall receive an informal midterm progress report at the mid-point of each nine-week instructional period. Teachers shall consult with parents of students who are working at an unsatisfactory level or whose performance shows a marked or sudden deterioration. Parents shall be notified by the teacher as early in the school year as possible if the retention of a student is being considered.
A supplemental letter of personal consultation may be used when a teacher desires to give some explanation not covered by other reporting methods.
Parents may check their child’s grades online by going to http://jc-schools.net and clicking on the Aspen link in the lower left side of the webpage. Parents may log in as follows:
Username: firstname.lastname (official first name and last name of the student)
Password: student’s lunch number
If parents experience trouble logging in, they should contact the school for help.
STUDENT FOLDERS
New Market Elementary School purchases student folders each year for students in certain grade levels. These folders are an important aspect in teaching students to be organized and responsible. All students are encouraged to use them to send information home to parents and to also get information from parents.
Please look at your child’s take-home folder each day.
TESTING PROGRAMS (Board Policy 4.700)
The Board shall provide for a system-wide testing program which shall be periodically reviewed and evaluated. The purposes of the program shall be to:
- Assist in promoting accountability;
- Determine the progress of students;
- Assess the effectiveness of the instructional program and student learning;
- Aid in counseling and guiding students in planning future education and other endeavors;
- Analyze the improvements needed in a given instructional area;
- Assist in the screening of students with learning difficulties;
- Assist in placing students in remedial programs;
- Provide information for college entrance and placement;
- Assist in educational research by providing data.
State-mandated student testing programs shall be undertaken in accordance with procedures published by the State Department of Education. The TCAP test will be administered in the spring of each school year and will include a writing assessment for English/Language Arts, as well as assessments for Math, English/Language Arts, and Science. These assessments will be scheduled for late April/early May. Updates will be available at http://jc-schools.net or on NME’s website, nms.jc-net. TCAP scores shall be included as 15% of students’ final grades, unless scores are not received at least five days before the end of the course.
Other tests may be given as requested by students, teachers, or parents when approved by the principal.
Any test directly concerned with measuring student ability or achievement through individual or group psychological or sociometric tests shall not be administered by or with the knowledge of any employee of the system without first obtaining written consent of the parents or guardians.
Results of all group tests shall be recorded on the students’ permanent records and shall be made available to appropriate personnel in accordance with established procedures.
DISTRICT ASSESSMENTS
IReady – Grades K-8 Literacy and Math Screener/benchmark – administered 3 times per year as a universal screener for all students K-5.
TCAP testing – used to assess a student’s progress for the entire school year. State mandatory testing for all students in grades 3-5. This annual testing will be conducted in April-May of 2024.
ATTENDANCE
Tennessee Law
The Compulsory Attendance Law (TCA 49-6-3007; 49-6-3001) requires that all children in Tennessee, six years old to seventeen years old shall attend school continuously. Also, the law affirms that the primary responsibility for regular attendance resides with the parents and/or guardians.
Jefferson County Board of Education Policy (Board Policy 6.200)
Attendance is a key factor in student achievement, and therefore, students are expected to be present each day school is in session.
Absences shall be classified as either excused or unexcused as determined by the principal/designee. Excused absences shall include:
- Personal illness/injury
- Illness of immediate family member
- Death in the family
- Extreme weather conditions
- Religious observances
- Pregnancy
- School endorsed activities
- Summons, subpoena, or court order; or
- Circumstances which in the judgment of the principal create emergencies over which the student has no control.
Students participating in school-sponsored activities, whether on- or off-campus, shall not be counted absent. In order to qualify as "school-sponsored," the activity must be school-planned, school-directed, and teacher-supervised. NOTE: A student attending a school-sponsored activity is counted as attending school and is responsible for all school-work missed.
Late arrivals/early dismissals disrupt the learning day and are strongly discouraged. Such arrivals/dismissals will be permitted for the following reasons only:
- In case of emergencies
- With a valid doctor's appointment
- With a validation of funeral attendance of immediate family including parent, grandparent, brother, sister, mother-in-law, father-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, uncle, or aunt.
NOTE: Any student arriving late or leaving early must be signed in/out through the front office according to Board Policy 6.208 (see “Release During School Hours”). JCS requires a parent/guardian to sign the student in.
Clock time for unexcused late arrivals or unapproved early dismissals will accumulate on the student's attendance record and will be considered as part of the student's aggregate days missed as determined by the school calendar. These aggregate days may be reported to parents for five (5) day notifications and to the attendance officer for ten (10) day notifications in compliance with Compulsory School Attendance Law.
Chronic Absenteeism:
Chronic Absenteeism is defined as a student missing 10 percent or 18 total days for the entire school year. Any absence from school is included in the definition of Chronic Absenteeism: excused days, unexcused days and out of school suspensions.
New state requirements asking schools to track Chronic Absenteeism and support students who are absent for any reason are also beginning July 2018. Your child must be present 195 or more minutes in a school day for it to be counted as a full attendance day. Attending less than 195 minutes in a school day will count as an absence. If your child's absences are excessive, the school will contact you and begin student support and interventions after 9 total absences.
Truancy
General
Annually, the Director of Schools/designee will provide written notice to parent(s)/guardian(s) that attendance at school is required. Students shall be present at least fifty percent (50%) of the scheduled school day in order to be counted present. Students may attend part-time days, alternating days, or for a specific amount of time as indicated in their Individualized Education Plan or 504 Plan and shall be considered present for school attendance purposes. If a student is required to participate in a remedial instruction program outside of the regular school day where there is no cost to the parent(s)/guardian(s) and the school system provides transportation, unexcused absences from these programs shall be reported in the same manner.
A student who is absent five (5) days without adequate excuse shall be reported to the Director of Schools/designee who will, in turn, provide written notice to the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student's absence. If a parent does not provide documentation within adequate time excusing those absences, or request an attendance hearing, then the Director of Schools shall implement the progressive truancy intervention plan described below prior to referral to juvenile court. Jefferson County Board Policy 6.200
Progressive Truancy Intervention Plan
Prior to referral to juvenile court, the following progressive truancy intervention plan will be implemented.
Tier I
Tier I of the progressive truancy intervention plan shall include the following:
- Each school will initiate a referral process for students of concern due to attendance.
- A conference with the student and the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s);
- An attendance contract, based on the conference, signed by the student, the parent(s)/guardian(s), and an attendance supervisor or designee. The contract shall include:
- A specific description of the school’s attendance expectations for the student;
- The period for which the contract is effective; and
- Penalties for additional absences and alleged school offenses, including additional disciplinary action and potential referral to juvenile court; and
- Regularly scheduled follow-up meetings to discuss the student’s progress.
Tier II
If a student accumulates a minimum of 5 unexcused absences in violation of the attendance policy as addressed in Tier I, the student will be required to receive Tier II interventions.
Tier II of the progressive truancy intervention plan shall include the following:
- Each school will initiate a referral process for students of concern due to attendance.
- A conference with the student and the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s);
- An attendance contract, based on the conference, signed by the student, the parent(s)/guardian(s), and an attendance supervisor or designee. The contract shall include:
a. A specific description of the school’s attendance expectations for the student;
b. The period for which the contract is effective; and
c. Penalties for additional absences and alleged school offenses, including additional disciplinary action and potential referral to juvenile court; and
- Regularly scheduled follow-up meetings to discuss the student’s progress.
- Individualized assessment by school employee of the reasons a student has been absent from school; and
- If necessary, referral of the child to counseling, community-based services, or other in-school or out-of-school services aimed at addressing the student’s attendance problems.
Under this tier, the attendance contract will be initiated or updated with the parent/guardian and student.
Tier III
This tier shall be implemented if the truancy interventions under Tier II are unsuccessful. Tier III may consist of 1 or more of the following:
- School-based community services;
- Participation in a school-based restorative justice program;
- Referral to a school-based teen court; or Saturday or after-school courses designed to improve attendance and behavior.
These interventions shall be determined by a team formed at each school. The interventions shall address student needs in an age-appropriate manner. Finalized plans shall be approved by the Director of Schools/designee.
MILITARY SERVICE OF PARENT/GUARDIAN
School principals shall provide students with a one-day excused absence prior to the deployment of and a one-day excused absence upon the return of a parent or custodian serving active military service.
Principals shall also allow up to ten (10) excused cumulative absences per year for students to visit a parent/guardian during a deployment cycle. The student shall provide documentation to the school as proof of his/her parent's/guardian's deployment. Students shall be permitted to make up schoolwork missing during these absences.
New Market School Policy
Students are expected to be at school by 8:05 each morning. Students will be allowed into the building until 8:10 and will be greeted by office staff. After 8:10, students must be walked in by a parent.
Assignment of Students (Board Policy 6.205)
To schools: Students, including those in kindergarten, are expected to attend the school in the school zone to which they are assigned by virtue of the residence of their legal and/or custodial parent(s). Residence is defined as the location of property where the student lives in a dwelling with the parent on a daily basis, eating meals, sleeping, playing and performing what are considered routine family activities.
An application to attend school outside a student's zone of residence must be submitted to the principal. Permission will be considered under the following conditions:
- The student's attendance will not cause the student/teacher ratio to exceed the state guidelines in the class or grade-level for the out-of-zone school.
- The parent will provide regular daily transportation to and from school.
- The receiving principal agrees that the enrollment of the student will not adversely affect the efficiency of the operation of the school.
- The director shall establish specific procedures for such enrollment.
To classes:
The principal shall be responsible for assigning all students to classes. Students who enter the system from another school system are to be placed by the principal in the grade and/or level as indicated by records from the former school. If the student's placement is inappropriate in the grade or level assigned, he/she may be reassigned by the principal to another grade level. Parents shall be kept advised.
Attendance of Non-Resident Students (Board Policy 6.204)
Only students residing within the boundaries of Jefferson County will be eligible for enrollment. However, under specific conditions a student residing outside the boundaries of Jefferson County may attend schools within the school system with approval of the director of schools. For more specific information, please see Board Policy 6.204 under School Board at www.jc-tn.net.
Release during School Hours (Board Policy 6.208)
The following procedure will be observed with regard to dismissal of students:
- No student will leave school prior to regular dismissal hours, except with the approval of the principal and parent. Elementary students will be permitted to leave school prior to regular dismissal time only in the company of a parent, legal guardian, school employee, police officer, court officer, or a person designated in writing by the parent(s).
- When dental and medical appointments cannot be scheduled outside school hours, parent(s) must send a written request for dismissal or call for the student in person.
- Children will be released only upon the request of the parent whom the court holds directly responsible for the child, or who is the parent or guardian registered on the school record.
- No principal or teacher shall permit a change in the physical custody of a child at school unless:
- The person seeking custody of the child presents the school official with a certified copy of a valid court order from a Tennessee court designating the person who has custody of the child; and
b. The person seeking custody gives the school official reasonable advance notice of his/her intent to take custody of the child at school.
Transfers within the System (Board Policy 6.206)
Transfer students will meet the same enrollment requirements as new students.
Students whose families change their residence to another school zone within the county after the first month of school may complete the school year at their former school. Students who present evidence that they will move during the school year and who desire to enroll in a new school in the new area may do so with prior written request for a change of school zone. The director of schools may grant other exceptions to this policy for good and sufficient reasons.
Principals shall allow credit for work transferred from other schools only when substantiated by official transcripts or successful completion of comprehensive written examinations approved, administered, and graded by the principal or his/her designated representative.
In the case of elementary school students, the examination shall cover the last grade completed.
STUDENT CONDUCT
The Board of Education believes that acceptable behavior is an essential ingredient of an effective educational program. It expects students to conduct themselves in such a manner as to reflect favorably upon themselves, their families, their community, and their school. The professional staff is expected to ensure student conduct, which allows for an acceptable learning atmosphere both inside and outside the classroom and to help students develop self-discipline and self-direction. To this end, the staff is authorized to take reasonable measures to establish appropriate school behavior. Any professional employee shall have the authority to control any student's conduct while under the supervision of the school district. This authority to control student conduct shall extend to all activities of the school, including all games and public performances of athletic teams and other school groups, trips, excursions, and all other activities under school sponsorship and direction. Such measures include use of reasonable force to restrain or correct students and maintain order.
GENERAL DISCIPLINE POLICY
New Market School utilizes an Assertive Discipline Program. Students should be sure to familiarize themselves with this process. This program is designed to alter the behavior of students who choose not to conduct themselves in a positive manner. The basic purpose of assertive discipline is to create a setting where teachers can teach and students can learn. This requires respect between students and teachers, so that the rights of both groups are not violated. To help teachers and students understand the underlying principles of assertive discipline, New Market School has developed the following school-wide rules:
- Be Respectful: of others and yourself
- Be Responsible: with your words, actions, behavior and with belongings
- Be Engaged: with others and the learning process
- Be Prepared: be here on time, with your belongings and ready to learn
Assertive Discipline Plan: Explanation
The purpose of this plan is to establish a clear and consistent hierarchy of consequences to enable the administration to deal promptly and fairly with students who violate school rules. It is also the purpose of this discipline plan to establish a safe and orderly school environment in which the rights of all students are protected and the efforts of the teachers to maintain order and teach students are supported. The principals, teachers, and staff reserve the right to determine whether a student’s behavior is inappropriate. The hierarchy of consequences ranges from the less severe to the more severe, ultimately reaching the point where expulsion is recommended.
Classroom-Level Discipline
In order to protect the learning of all students, each teacher shall have the right to discipline students according to his/her classroom discipline plan. For each violation of classroom rules, a student will receive a write-up and a corresponding consequence; consequences will be the teacher’s decision. Two classroom write-ups within the same class period in one day will result in the student receiving a “Refocus” period (one period in ISS) as a consequence. Students who are placed in refocus two times in a nine weeks will be issued an office referral. Examples of minor disturbances include tardiness, minor disruptions, not following directions or being off task. Administrative referrals include disrespect to adults, placing hands on others, foul language, etc. Please see board policy 6.300.
The teacher will contact parents when behaviors become frequent or if the nature of the behavior warrants contact. Once a student has committed four violations of classroom rules within a semester, he/she will receive an office referral and be sent to an administrator; however if a student has been placed in refocus twice on office referral will be issued. Classroom write-ups start over at the beginning of each semester if they have not become office referrals.
A teacher may refer a student to the office automatically if the student commits a severe classroom disruption (e.g., overt refusal to obey, severe disrespect, fighting, vandalism, or any other action which prevents the class from functioning).
A rule that will be strictly enforced is that students must keep hands to themselves. Students who place hands on others will be disciplined regardless of their intention.
NOTE: Any adult working in the building has the right to direct student behavior and the responsibility to administer appropriate consequences when students choose not to follow their direction.
Administrative-Level Discipline/Office Referrals
Administrative discipline (office referral) occurs as a result of an accumulation of classroom write-ups or because of a severe disruption to the school process. Administrative discipline generally follows a hierarchy of consequences, but the administration reserves the right to choose the consequence.
Cafeteria expectations
Students are expected to behave in the cafeteria is they would in the classroom. Students who throw food, move about The cafeteria without permission or become disruptive will be assigned isolated lunch. Isolated lunch will take place in the Refocus room for a period of time determined by those on cafeteria duty.
Behavior Plans
After discussion with an administrator, a teacher may place a student on a behavior plan. This will be more formal than the typical classroom plan. A student with a formal behavior plan may be referred to an administrator sooner than a student without a formal behavior plan. A student may also be placed on a behavior plan for a relatively serious offense or continued misconduct. An administrative plan gives the student a specified period in which to prove that he/she will obey school rules. Administrative behavior contracts may be extended into the next semester or school year.
Refocus (In School Suspension)
One of the disciplinary options used at New Market Elementary School is in-school suspension. It is isolated study for students who have violated certain school policies (Policy 6.316). Students are assigned to in-school suspension by the administration only, and students must report directly to the designated area with all books, pencil, and paper. Students assigned to ISS will have all school privileges revoked during their assignment and may not re-enter the regular school program until all in-school suspension time has been served. Failure to comply with ISS rules could result in the student being assigned additional time in ISS or being placed on OSS.
Out-of-School Suspension (OSS)
According to T.C.A. 49-6-3401, any school administrator of any public school in this state is authorized to suspend a pupil from attendance from such school, including its sponsored activities, or from riding a school bus, for good or sufficient reasons. T.C.A. 49-6-3401 also provides that if a principal or assistant principal determines that an offense has been committed which would justify suspension for more than ten (10) days, he/she may suspend a student unconditionally for a specified period or upon such terms and conditions as may be reasonable. The student, the parent or guardian, or any other person holding a teaching license who is employed by the school system (if requested by the student) may file an appeal to a disciplinary hearing authority (DHA) for any suspension over 10 days. The appeal must be in writing, and it must be filed with the director of schools within five (5) days after receipt of the notice of suspension (Policy 6.316).
Note: If a student is suspended out of school on the day of an after-school activity/game, he/she will NOT be allowed to attend the activity/game. Additionally, if a student is suspended out of school; students may not attend or participate in school functions until the suspension has been served. (EX: OSS is assigned Friday – Tuesday; students may not participate in sports or school functions over the weekend.)
Disciplinary plans written in a student’s I.E.P. will take precedence over the normal Assertive Discipline Plan.
Administrative discipline accumulates for the entire school year. Consequences of disciplinary actions that cannot be served at the end of a school year due to time constraints will be carried over to the beginning of the next year.
Relationship between Student and Teacher
A student's most direct and frequent contact with a school official is with the classroom teacher. When a student has a problem that relates to a specific class, the following steps should be followed in trying to solve the problem:
- The student should discuss the matter with a teacher at a time other than class time and at a time which is mutually convenient.
- If that fails, the student, the parent, and the teacher should discuss the matter.
- The next step would be to involve the assistant principal or the principal.
- Actions which cannot be resolved at the level of assistant principal/principal would go to the Elementary School’s Supervisor, the Director of Schools, and the School Board, in that order.
At any point, particularly in the early stages, a guidance counselor can be involved to help solve the problem.
It is strongly recommended that all students become completely familiar with the guidelines of the program and use them to make this the best school year of their career.
SPECIFIC DISCIPLINE POLICIES
Note: In addition to the penalties listed below, each violation will be added as a step on the Assertive Discipline Plan.
Specific Discipline Policies
- ALCOHOL POLICY
- Discrimination, Harassment, Bullying, Cyber-bulling, and Intimidation
- Disrespect Policy
- Dress Code Policy
- Drug Policy
- Electronic Communications Device/Cell Phone Policy
- Fighting Policy
- Horseplay/Scuffling/Physical Abuse
- Inappropriate Display of Affection Policy
- Profanity Policy
- Prohibited/Disruptive Items
- Tobacco Policy
- Weapons and Dangerous Instruments Policy
- Zero Tolerance
- Drugs
- Battery/Assault
- Electronic Threats
- Bus Conduct Policy
ALCOHOL POLICY
Students will not possess, distribute, consume, or be under the influence of alcoholic beverages, in school buildings, school grounds, in school vehicles or buses, or at any school sponsored activity at any time, whether on or off school grounds. Upon information that a student is suspected of violating this policy, the principal of the school shall be notified immediately. If it is determined that board policy has indeed been violated, the principal shall notify the student’s parent or guardian and the appropriate law enforcement officials.
The penalty for first offense violations of the alcohol policy will be to remand the student to Jefferson Academy until such time he/she successfully completes the Academy’s instructional and behavioral programs. During the suspension period, the student should implement and complete an alcohol education program that would include the effects and consequences of alcohol use on personal health and safety. (Program to be approved by Jefferson Academy.)
NOTE: Parent/student will be responsible if any expense is incurred for the alcohol education services. If a student violates the alcohol policy a second time, he will be subject to expulsion from the school system for a minimum of one (1) calendar year from the date of infraction (Policy 6.307).
Discrimination, Harassment, Bullying, Cyber-bulling, and Intimidation
The Jefferson County Board of Education has determined that a safe, civil, and supportive environment in school is necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards. In order to maintain that environment, acts of bullying, cyber-bullying, discrimination, harassment, hazing or any other victimization of students, based on any actual or perceived traits or characteristics, are prohibited. This policy shall be disseminated annually to all school staff, students, and parents. This policy shall cover employees, employees' behaviors, students and students'
behaviors while on school property, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided equipment or transportation, or at any official school bus stop. If the act takes place off school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity, this policy is in effect if the conduct is directed specifically at a student or students and has the effect of creating a hostile educational environment or otherwise creating a substantial disruption to the education environment or learning process. Building administrators are responsible for educating and training their respective staff and students as to the definition and recognition of discrimination/harassment.
Definitions
Bullying/Intimidation/Harassment-An act that substantially interferes with a student’s educational benefits, opportunities, or performance, and the act has the effect of:
- Physically harming a student or damaging a student’s property;
- Knowingly placing a student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student’s property;
- Causing emotional distress to a student or students; or
- Creating a hostile educational environment.
Bullying, intimidation, or harassment may also be unwelcome conduct based on a protected class (race, nationality, origin, color, gender, age, disability, religion) that is severe, pervasive, or persistent and creates a hostile environment.
Cyber-bullying-A form of bullying undertaken through the use of electronic devices. Electronic devices include, but are not limited to, telephones, cellular phones or other wireless telecommunication devices, text messaging, emails, social networking sites, instant messaging, videos, web sites or fake profiles.
Hazing-An intentional or reckless act by a student or group of students that is directed against any other student(s) that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of the student(s) or that induces or coerces a student to endanger his/her mental or physical health or safety. Coaches and other employees of the school district shall not encourage, permit, condone or tolerate hazing activities. “Hazing” does not include customary athletic events or similar contest or competitions and is limited to those actions taken and situations created in connection with initiation into or affiliation with any organization.
Complaints and Investigations
Alleged victims of the above-referenced offenses shall report these incidents immediately to a teacher, counselor or building administrator. All school employees are required to report alleged violations of this policy to the principal/designee. All other members of the school community, including students, parents, volunteers, and visitors, are encouraged to report any act that may be a violation of this policy. While reports may be made anonymously, an individual's need for confidentiality must be balanced with obligations to cooperate with police investigations or legal proceedings, to provide due process to the accused, to conduct a thorough investigation or to take necessary actions to resolve a complaint, and the identity of parties and witnesses may be disclosed in appropriate circumstances to individuals with a need to know. The principal/designee at each school shall be responsible for investigating and resolving complaints.
Once a complaint is received, the principal/designee shall initiate and investigation within forty-eight (48) hours of receipt of the report. If a report is not initiated within forty-eight (48) hours, the principal/designee shall provide the director of schools with appropriate documentation detailing the reasons why the investigation was not initiated within the required timeframe. The principal/designee shall notify the parent/legal guardian when a student is involved in an act of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying. The principal/designee shall provide information on district counseling and support services. Students involved in an act of discrimination, harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyber-bullying shall be referred to the appropriate school counselor by the principal/designee when deemed necessary.
The principal/designee is responsible for determining whether an alleged act constitutes a violation of this policy, and such act shall be held to violate this policy when it meets one of the following conditions:
- It places the student in reasonable fear or harm for the student’s person or property;
- It has a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s physical or mental health;
- It has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s academic performance; or
- It has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.
Upon the determination of a violation, the principal/designee shall conduct a prompt, thorough, and complete investigation of each alleged incident. All investigations shall be completed, and appropriate intervention taken within twenty (20) calendar days from the receipt of the initial report. If the investigation is not complete or intervention has not taken place within twenty (20) calendar days, the principal/designee shall provide the director of schools with appropriate documentation detailing the reasons why the investigation has not been completed or the appropriate intervention has not taken place. Within the parameters of the federal Family Educational Rights 40 and Privacy Act (FERPA) at 20 U.S.C. § 1232g, a written report on the investigation will be delivered to the parents of the complainant, parents of the accused students and to the Director of Schools.
School administrators shall consider the nature and circumstances of the incident, the age of the violator, the degree of harm, previous incidences or patterns of behavior, or any other factors, as appropriate to properly respond to each situation.
When a complaint is filed alleging a violation of this policy where there is physical harm or the threat of physical harm to a student or a student's property, the principal/designee of each middle school, junior high school, or high school shall report the findings and any disciplinary actions taken to the director of schools and the chair of the board of education.
Retaliation against any person who reports or assists in any investigation of an act alleged in this policy is prohibited. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a person who engages in retaliation shall be determined by the administrator after consideration of the nature, severity, and circumstances of the act. False accusations accusing another person of having committed an act prohibited under this policy are prohibited. The consequences and appropriate remedial action for a person found to have falsely accused another may range from positive behavioral interventions up to and including suspension and expulsion. (For more complete details, please see Policy 6.304 under School Board at www.jc-schools.net.
School-wide No Bullying Rules
- We will not bully others.
- We will help students who are being bullied.
- We will include students who are left out.
- We will tell an adult.
Consequences
Any incident of possible harassment or hazing involving students versus students will be investigated and infractions may result in warnings, bullying write-ups, office referrals, parent contact, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension and/or dismissal from school. The accumulation of three bullying write-ups will result in an office referral. Any incident of possible harassment involving staff or teachers will be reported to the Director of Schools.
Disrespect Policy
In cases of general disrespect towards any staff member, including substitute teachers, students will receive an office referral. In cases of severe disrespect, overt refusal to follow administrative directions, or in the threatening of an employee, the student may be suspended out of school for up to ten days.
Dress Code Policy
Students should dress appropriately at all times. Dress should never distract from school activities or prove a hazard to the student's safety or the safety of others. If, in the judgment of the school administration, a student is not appropriately attired or exhibits grooming which constitutes a distraction or disturbance to the school environment, the student may be sent home and not be readmitted until he/she is properly attired or groomed. Note: The Jefferson County Schools dress code is considered to be a minimum standard. Principals may modify only to the extent that it is a higher standard (Policy 6.310).
The following attire is considered inappropriate:
- Hats/Bandanas
- Tank tops, jerseys, shirts, blouses, sweaters, or dresses which are inappropriately revealing or suggestive (no spaghetti straps for students 3rd-5th)
- Jeans with revealing holes above the knee
- Clothing which allows undergarments to be visible when standing or sitting
- Any clothing that has obscene or profane language, depiction of alcoholic beverages or unlawful substances, gang related
- No clothing which exposes the midriff
- Hoodies may not cover the head while in the building
All first offenses will be recorded as a warning. On the first offense, the administration may notify the student’s parent or guardian and have the student remedy the problem by changing clothes or by removing/reversing objectionable clothing, jewelry, and head covering. When the problem has been corrected, the student can return to class. If the violation cannot be corrected, the student may be assigned to ISS for the day. Repeated violations will be added as a step on the Assertive Discipline Plan.
Drug Policy
Students shall not consume, use, possess, give, exchange, transfer or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, hallucinogenic drug, marijuana, or intoxicant of any kind. This also includes, but is not limited to, abuse of inhalants and prescription drugs. The above violations are subject to disciplinary action if they occur on school real property; at a school activity at any time whether on or off campus; or in a school vehicle.
When a principal or his designee determines that a student is in violation of this policy, the student will be suspended from school following the suspension guidelines in Board policy 6.309 for Zero Tolerance Offenses. The principal shall also notify the proper law enforcement authorities.
Abuse of prescribed drugs and/or over-the-counter drugs and/or look-alike drugs shall be considered in the same manner as illegally obtained substances. Students shall not attempt to market or distribute any substance, which is represented to be or is substantially similar in color, shape, size or markings to a controlled substance.
Students under prescribed medications must identify themselves to appropriate school officials upon arrival at school and the prescribed medication shall be retained during the school day and administered by the principal's designee. All prescriptions shall bear the name of the medication, directions for administration and the name of the issuing pharmacy. When a principal or designee determines that a student is in violation of the above policy, the student will be suspended from school following the suspension guidelines in Policy 6.316 and according to the Assertive Discipline Plan (Policies 6.307 and 6.309).
Electronic Communications Device/Cell Phone Policy
Students shall not make any use of a cellular phone or communication device while on any school campus during the hours of the school day. A device should be powered off when entering the building until students are dismissed. (At New Market School, students may not turn on any personal device until they leave the building.) This includes all forms of message modes currently available in electronic communication devices, i.e., voice communication, text messages, and transmission of visual images.
Personal electronic devices with mobile wireless access or devices with video capabilities, may be stored in backpacks, purses or personal bags. However, the use of the devices during school hours is strictly forbidden. Use or improper storage of the personal electronic device will result in confiscation of the device until such time as it may be released to the student's parents or guardian. A student in violation of this policy is subject to disciplinary action. (Policy 6.312).
*** The inappropriate use of an electronic device while on a Jefferson County School Bus is prohibited. Examples of inappropriate activity may include, but is not limited to, viewing, playing, listening, or sharing material that is not suitable for all ages. Students involved in inappropriate activity, or that refuse to comply with the driver’s request, will be subject to disciplinary measures by school administrators. Drivers shall complete a bus referral form and submit to building administrators.
The Jefferson county School System is not responsible for loss and/or damage of personal electronic devices.
Students who violate this policy shall receive the following discipline:
First offense: Warning, Device confiscated for remainder of day (to be released to student only at end of day).
Second offense: Office Referral, Device confiscated for remainder of the day (to be released to parent/legal guardian only at the end of the day).
All subsequent offenses will result in additional office referrals, with device confiscated until parent pick-up.
Use of cameras on personal communication devices is a disruption to the school process and is strictly prohibited during school hours. Violations will result in disciplinary action.
Fighting Policy
When students are involved in a fight, defined as an exchange of physical blows, combatants will receive the following discipline:
First Offense: 3 days out-of-school suspension
Second Offense: 5 days out-of-school suspension
Third Offense: Up to 10 days out of school suspension
Note: In all instances, law enforcement officials may be called. Additionally, students who incite fights but are not actively involved (that is, students who carry rumors, put others up to fighting, or carry information back and forth between other individuals who subsequently fight) subject themselves to the same penalties as those who are involved in the fight.
Students who are intimidated or harassed by another student should report it to a teacher or administrator. Teachers are to report these incidents immediately to an administrator. In sum, fighting will not be tolerated on the campus, on the school bus, or at any school-sanctioned event.
Horseplay/Scuffling/Physical Abuse
Physical contact between students will not be tolerated, as this is a safety concern. Whether innocent horseplay or malicious contact, these behaviors can cause many problems, up to and including serious bodily injury. As such, students displaying these behaviors will be dealt with seriously and disciplinary action will be taken. Students should never put their hands on another student. Students will be disciplined if hands are placed on others regardless of their intent.
Inappropriate Display of Affection Policy
Profanity Policy
Prohibited/Disruptive Items
Students will not be allowed to have any items which may be disruptive to the educational process. Such items may include, but are not limited to, electronic devices, radios, toy guns, laser pointers and other toys. Such items will be asked to be put away or taken by a teacher. Items will be given back to the student at the end of the day in most cases, but parents may be asked to come pick up the items. For any further incidents, students will be given a level on the Assertive Discipline Plan.
Tobacco Policy
Use and/or possession of tobacco products including electronic or vapor cigarettes and associated paraphernalia by students are prohibited in all school buildings, on the school campus, and on school transportation vehicles. This policy applies to school bus trips. Students who violate this policy will receive ISS or OSS. Consequences outlined in the disciplinary guidelines in Board Policy 6.300 and 1.803.
Weapons and Dangerous Instruments Policy
Students shall not possess, handle, transmit, attempt to use, or threaten to use any dangerous weapon in school buildings or on school grounds at any time, or in school vehicles and/or buses or off the school grounds at a school-sponsored activity, function or event. Dangerous weapons for the purposes of this policy shall include, but are not limited to, a firearm or anything manifestly designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting death or serious bodily injury, or anything that in the manner of its use or intended use is capable of causing death or serious bodily injury. Violators of this section shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion from school. “Look alike” weapons may be considered as dangerous weapons under this policy based upon the school administrator’s determination of totality of circumstances. (Policy 6.309).
NOTE: Pocket knives are not permitted at New Market School
Zero Tolerance
In order to ensure a safe and secure learning environment, the following offenses will not be tolerated:
Firearms (as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 921)
In accordance with state law, any student who brings or possesses a firearm on school property shall be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. The director of schools shall have the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis.
Drugs
In accordance with state law, any student who unlawfully possesses any drug including any controlled substance, legend drug and/or drug paraphernalia shall be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. The director of schools shall have the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis. Board Policy 6.309.
Battery/Assault
In accordance with state law, any student who commits or threatens battery/assault upon any teacher, principal administrator, another student, or any other employee of the school or school resource officer shall be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. The director of schools shall have the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis. Board Policy 6.309
Electronic Threats
In accordance with state law, any general education student who transmits by an electronic device any communication containing a credible threat to cause bodily injury or death to another student or school employee and the transmission of such threat creates an actual disruptive activity at the school that requires administrative intervention shall be expelled for a period of not less than one calendar year. The director of schools shall have the authority to modify this expulsion on a case-by-case basis.
Notification
When it is determined that a student has violated this policy, the principal of the school shall notify the student’s parent or guardian and the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system as required by law (Policy 6.309).
Bus Conduct Policy
Bus service 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. Students are under the supervision and control of the bus driver while on his/her bus and all reasonable directions shall be followed. A driver may remove a student in the event that the driver finds it necessary for the safety of the other student passengers or the driver, provided that the driver secures the safety of the ejected student for the uncompleted trip.
A driver shall report to school authorities as soon as possible, but no later than the end of the route, any student refusing to obey the driver or exiting the bus without the driver’s permission at a point other than the student’s destination for that trip. The principal of the student transported shall be informed by the bus driver of any serious discipline problem. A student may be denied the privilege of riding the bus if the principal determines that his/ her behavior is causing disruption on the bus, or if he/she disobeys state or local rules and regulations pertaining to student transportation. No student may get off the bus at any point between the pick-up point and school. A student who wishes to get off the bus between school and their pickup point must present the bus driver with a note of authorization from the parent or the principal of the school that the student attends. Any student wishing to ride a bus other than his/her designated bus must have written parental permission and the approval of the principal or his/her designee. Students who transfer from bus to bus while in route to and from school shall be expected to abide by the discipline policies adopted by the Board and rules adopted by the staff of the transfer school. Video cameras may be used to monitor student behavior on school vehicles transporting students to and from school or extracurricular activities. Students in violation of bus conduct rules shall be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with established Board policy and regulations governing student conduct and discipline. (Policy 6.308).
*** The inappropriate use of an electronic device while on a Jefferson County School Bus is prohibited. Examples of inappropriate activity may include, but is not limited to, viewing, playing, listening, or sharing material that is not suitable for all ages. Students involved in inappropriate activity, or that refuse to comply with the driver’s request, will be subject to disciplinary measures by school administrators. Drivers shall complete a bus referral form and submit to building administrators.
The Jefferson county School System is not responsible for loss and/or damage of personal electronic devices.
Bus Discipline Procedures
1st Bus Referral to an Administrator
- Warning or Assigned Seat or Bus Suspension or Bus Suspension for the remainder of the year,
- Parent Contact,
- Contact the Bus Supervisor before being allowed to return to the bus (Optional),
- Meeting with the Bus Driver and Student (Optional)
2nd Bus Referral to an Administrator
- Bus Suspension or Bus Suspension for the remainder of the year,
- Parent Contact,
- Contact the Bus Supervisor before being allowed to return to the bus,
- Meeting with the Bus Driver and Student (Optional)
3rd Bus Referral to an Administrator
- Bus Suspension or Bus Suspension for the remainder of the year,
- Parent Contact,
- Contact the Bus Supervisor before being allowed to return to the bus (Optional)
- Meeting with the Bus Driver and Student (Optional)
4th Bus Referral to an Administrator
- Bus Suspension or Bus Suspension for the remainder of the year,
- Parent Contact,
- Contact the Bus Supervisor before being allowed to return to the bus (Optional)
- Meeting with the Bus Driver and Student (Optional)
5th Bus Referral to an Administrator
- Bus Suspension for up to the remainder of the year,
- Parent Contact,
- Contact the Bus Supervisor before being allowed to return to the bus (Optional)
- Meeting with the Bus Driver and Student (Optional)
Note: The number of bus suspension days will range from a few days to a school year, and in general will increase with each additional referral. However, administrators reserve the right to determine the number of days of bus suspension based on the offense and the student’s prior infractions on the bus.
The following specific bus offenses will result in the consequences listed below:
Fighting: The first offense for fighting on a bus will result in the student’s suspension of bus privileges for 10 days and a 3 days out-of-school suspension and citation to court for disorderly conduct. The second offense for fighting will result in a 30-day bus suspension and 5 days out-of-school suspension and a citation to court for disorderly conduct. The third offense for fighting will result in a bus suspension for one calendar year.
Drugs/Alcohol/Sexual Offenses: Offenses that involve drugs, alcohol, or are sexual in nature will result in a bus suspension for one calendar year and will follow the school’s policy with further discipline.
An attempt shall be made to notify parents in person or by phone concerning any suspension and/or expulsion of bus privileges. In addition, written notice shall be mailed. The parent is required to discuss the matter with the principal/assistant principal, and transportation supervisor before transportation privileges are restored. The suspension of a student from riding the school bus shall follow the same procedures as for any other school suspension. It is the responsibility of the principal, assistant principal, and/ or transportation supervisor to notify the bus driver of disciplinary action taken (the same day of occurrence if possible).
ATHLETICS AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Interscholastic Athletics (Board Policy 4.301)
No person shall, based on sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, be treated differently from another person or otherwise be discriminated against in any athletic program of the school. Equal athletic opportunity shall be provided for members of both sexes. To be eligible to tryout or participate in interscholastic athletics, a student must be currently enrolled in that school.
Interscholastic athletics shall be administered as a part of the regular school program and shall be the principal’s responsibility. The principal or his/her designee must accompany an athletic team on trips.
School athletics shall be coached only by Board-approved personnel.
No principal or teacher of any school under the control of the Board shall dismiss his/her school or any group of students for the purpose of permitting them to practice or play baseball, football, basketball or any similar game within the regular school hours of any school day of the week without written permission from the director of schools. This does not prevent the inclusion of regular physical training lessons in the daily school program.
Athletic Eligibility
All athletics will adhere to the following rules:
- Each player prospect must meet each eligibility standard and have written parent permission prior to tryouts.
- All current rules of the New Market School will be followed to include:
- A student cannot repeat a grade for any reason and remain eligible.
- A student must be passing all classes to remain eligible to participate.
- Students who are given orders from a physician restricting participation can only be cleared to return by that physician.
- Students serving ISS/OSS on days of a game may not participate in the athletic contest the day of assigned ISS/OSS. If ISS/OSS spans over a weekend and a game is to be played over the weekend, that student may not participate in the athletic event during that time.
- No student will be allowed to participate in an athletic event or practice if he/she has been absent for a majority of that day (see also Board Policy 4.300).
Jefferson County Schools’ Athletic Code of Conduct
Good sportsmanship and proper conduct are behaviors that are learned during athletic events, and are the responsibility of administration, staff, coaches, parents, athletes, and the community at large.
All parents and players will be required to abide by the Jefferson County Code of Conduct while at any athletic event. Written agreements will be kept on file, and the Code of Conduct will be posted at events. Possible consequences for violation of the code may vary, but could include being escorted out of the event or suspended from attending games or dismissal from the team.
Student Clubs and Organizations (Board Policy 6.702)
Student organizations are an extension of the academic curriculum and are intended to complement the
basic instructional program. One or more staff members will serve as sponsors of each activity and will attend all meetings. Each sponsor will evaluate the activity and make recommendations concerning changes, continuance, or deletion from the school's activity program. An approved copy of the aims, objectives, and constitution for each organization will be kept on file in the principal's office. Any student who wished to participate in a school club must have a written permission form on file.
The principal, in cooperation with the faculty and student body representatives, shall approve all clubs and organizations within the school.
The director of schools shall approve all requirements imposed by clubs which have restricted membership. Sororities, fraternities, and all secret organizations are prohibited.