JES Student Handbook 2021-2022 - Williamson County Schools

Jordan Elementary School

1 Parent-Student Handbook 2021-2022


9714 Split Log Road 615-472-5270

https://www.wcs.edu/JES www.wcs.edu

Parent/Student Handbook 2021-2022

World Class, Every Class Effective Date: August 2021

https://www.wcs.edu/JES

http://www.wcs.edu/



Table of Contents ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL ...................................................................................................... 16

ASSESSMENTS ............................................................................................................... 19

ATTENDANCE ................................................................................................................. 19

BE NICE .......................................................................................................................... 22

“BULLY-FREE” SCHOOL .................................................................................................. 22

CELL PHONES & OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES.............................................................. 25

CAFETERIA/LUNCH ........................................................................................................ 26

CHARACTER EDUCATION-The 8 Keys of Excellence ...................................................... 28

CHILD FIND .................................................................................................................... 28

CHROMEBOOKS ............................................................................................................. 29

CLINIC/ILLNESS .............................................................................................................. 30

COMMUNICATION ........................................................................................................ 30

CREATING AN ENVIRONMENT FOR LEARNING ............................................................. 31

CUSTODIAL PARENTING ISSUES .................................................................................... 32

DELIVERIES ..................................................................................................................... 32

DISCIPLINE ..................................................................................................................... 32

DRESS CODE .................................................................................................................. 37

EMERGENCY DISMISSAL ................................................................................................ 38

FAMILY TRIPS ................................................................................................................. 38

FIELD TRIPS .................................................................................................................... 38

EMERGENCY INFORMATION ......................................................................................... 39

GRADING ....................................................................................................................... 39

HOMEWORK .................................................................................................................. 40

IMMUNIZATION ............................................................................................................ 41

INSTRUCTIONAL TIME ................................................................................................... 41

INTERNET POLICY and ACCEPTABLE USE ...................................................................... 42

LOST & FOUND .............................................................................................................. 42

MEDICATION ................................................................................................................. 42

MOMENT OF SILENCE ................................................................................................... 43



MONEY .......................................................................................................................... 43

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES ................................................................................. 43

PERSONAL ITEMS........................................................................................................... 44

PET POLICY .................................................................................................................... 44

PHOTOGRAPHS & RECORDINGS .................................................................................... 44

PLEDGE OF ALLEGANCE ................................................................................................. 45

PTO ................................................................................................................................ 45

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & RECESS ....................................................................................... 45

RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION & INSTRUCTION (RTI2) ................................................. 46

SACC (School Age Child Care) ........................................................................................ 46

SCHOOL IMMUNIZATION LAW ...................................................................................... 46

CHAPTER 76, SECTION 15 .............................................................................................. 46

SCHOOL SAFETY ............................................................................................................. 46

SPECIALS ........................................................................................................................ 47

STUDENT PROGRESS ..................................................................................................... 48

TENNESSEE COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT PROGRAM (TCAP) .................................. 49

TEXTBOOKS/LIBRARY BOOKS/SCHOOL PROPERTY ....................................................... 49

TOBACCO FREE CAMPUS ............................................................................................... 50

VISITORS ........................................................................................................................ 50

VOLUNTEERS ................................................................................................................. 50

WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURES ........................................................................................ 51

WCS FAMILY ACCESS ..................................................................................................... 51

APPENDIX-Federal Notices ............................................................................................ 53



2021-2022

Jordan Elementary School is excited about the beginning of another school year! At Jordan, we pride ourselves on creating a climate where everyone feels safe, warm, welcome, and successful. Schools and communities are the most successful when there is a strong home-school connection, when communication is positive, and all stakeholders adopt a “whatever it takes” philosophy.

Our focus is on academics, but we also understand the importance of developing the whole child. Our faculty and staff are relentless when it comes to the growth of every student, and we believe students will have a positive and rewarding experience while at Jordan Elementary. Our expectations are high, but we believe our students are ready for the challenge.

We invite you to join us in helping make Jordan Elementary an excellent place to work and learn by creating a memorable experience for teachers, students, and their families. Please don’t hesitate to contact the school with any questions, concerns, or suggestions at 615-472-5270 or by email. We welcome your input into our learning community and look forward to a great year at Jordan Elementary School.

Sincerely,

Chad M. Walker, Ed.S. Principal

Visit the Jordan Elementary School Web Site at https://www.wcs.edu/jes/ and familiarize yourself with Jordan Elementary Parent/Student Handbook.

https://www.wcs.edu/jes/



Please sign and return this page to your child’s teachers by August 13.

Thank you.

I have been informed of the Jordan Elementary School Parent/Student Handbook and familiarized myself with its content. I understand the importance of reviewing this document with my child as appropriate.

Student Name: Date:

Parent Name: Date:



WILLIAMSON COUNTY SCHOOLS

Our Vision Williamson County Schools will provide a supportive environment where students are

challenged to pursue excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts.

Our Mission We exist to provide all students with a quality education that supports their intellectual,

physical, emotional, and social development.

Our Strategic Commitments We will invest in team quality and excellence.

We will improve student centered operational support systems. We will prepare students for the future.

Investing in Team Quality & Excellence Williamson County Schools will invest time, expertise, and financial resources in strategies to attract and retain high-quality employees in all roles. Through mentoring, professional development, and careful attention to morale, WCS will empower employees to provide outstanding service to students and their families.

Goals 1. To attract and retain high-performing employees. 2. To expand mentoring programs for all new district and veteran employees

needing assistance. 3. To improve and maintain competitive compensation for all employees. 4. To expand high-quality professional development for all employees. 5. To evaluate and implement the most effective staffing standards for all

employee roles. 6. To develop a succession plan for senior staff.

Improving Student-Centered Operational Support Systems Williamson County Schools will explore and implement innovations to district practices and systems in order to plan proactively, operate economically, maximize equity, and continue to provide excellent learning experiences for students.

Goals 1. To maintain and upgrade all district facilities to meet the most current standards. 2. To identify and secure revenue sources that support the WCS strategic plan,

including both traditional funding streams and nontraditional resources. 3. To develop a strategy for engaging stakeholders in planning for school funding. 4. To identify and acquire property for school district growth in advance of need. 5. To increase the use of open-source curriculum when appropriate for

instructional needs.



6. To explore the flexible use of existing and future campuses to meet capacity and student programming needs.

7. To identify opportunities to reduce expenses while maintaining or improving services for students.

8. To utilize technology to improve communications among all district stakeholders. 9. To expand student and staff use of current technology-based learning strategies,

including online and blended student courses and staff professional development.

10. To create and implement a sustainable transportation model. 11. To maintain pupil-teacher ratios at the most effective levels practically possible.

Preparing Students for the Future Williamson County Schools will provide students with support and learning experiences that will equip them for post-secondary success.

Goals 1. To expand support services for students, including social, emotional, physical,

and mental health needs. 2. To achieve a target of 90% of graduating students earning an ACT composite of

21 or higher. 3. To continue to improve the average ACT composite score. 4. To increase the number of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM)

offerings for students. 5. To integrate STEM skills, including computational thinking, into courses across

the curriculum. 6. To integrate interpersonal skills, including problem-solving, teamwork,

communications, and related other skills into courses across the curriculum and through other activities.

7. To expand Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs based upon workforce and higher education requirements.

8. To expand connections with local businesses in order to provide internships and industry-embedded learning experiences for students.

9. To incorporate explicit instruction on positive communication norms into academic courses.

10. To increase post-secondary scholarship offerings and opportunities for students.

Rigor: the quality or state of being very exact, careful, or strict. In Williamson County Schools, a focus on rigor means that students are challenged to think critically, to problem-solve, and to learn the skills necessary to be college and career ready. Rigor is marked by steadfast focus on increasing achievement for all students. Rigor in Williamson County Schools means stretching all students to their fullest potential. All stakeholders:

● Create collaborative and engaging learning environments.



● Demand, support, and produce relevant, high-quality work. ● Expect continuous growth in learning.

Relevance: relation to the matter at hand Relevance refers to learning in which students develop skills, build deep conceptual understanding and make connections with what they know in the real world. Relevant learning connects the disciplines across academics, athletics and the arts. Student work can range from routine to complex and can include authentic problems or tasks, simulations, service learning, connecting concepts to current issues, performances, and teaching others. Relevant learning opportunities for older students may include in-depth projects that take place both in the classroom and the workplace and internships or community partnerships that provide students with a vision of their future and an understanding of how their schoolwork is linked to what they will do after graduation. In our schools, we provide relevance in several ways, including but not limited to:

● Bring Your Own Technology initiative ● Career and Technical Education ● Focus on hands-on learning opportunities ● Opportunities for community connections ● A scope and sequence built on mastery of college and career skills and concepts ● Wide variety of opportunities in the arts and athletics

Relationships: the way in which two or more people talk to, behave toward, and deal with each other. In Williamson County Schools, we understand that students who feel they have a relationship with their teacher, or a member of the school community consistently outperform those who do not. We believe students work hard for teachers when they perceive respect and caring. Good teachers break down student isolation and foster the collaboration that provides a strong supportive learning environment for students. In addition to building strong, supportive relationships between teachers and students, WCS is equally committed to fostering relationships with parents, business leaders and community members. We know the success of our schools is directly related to our ability to forge strong partnerships with families and our community. Below are just some of the ways WCS is working to strengthen relationships with members of the Williamson County community:

● WCS Ambassador Program ● Friends Learning in Pairs (FLIP) ● Williamson County Chamber of Commerce membership ● Partnerships with local law enforcement agencies ● Strong and active Parent Teacher Organizations at every school

Relentlessness: showing or promising no abatement of severity, intensity, strength, or pace.



In Williamson County Schools, we are relentless in working toward our vision of becoming a school district recognized nationally for students who excel in academics, athletics, and the arts. Working together, we are determined to achieve our vision by providing exemplary programming which maximizes student development in all areas. Williamson County Schools is relentlessly focused on student success and committed to achieving our goals as outlined in the Williamson County Schools Strategic Plan: nationally for students who excel in academics, athletics, and the arts. Working together, we are determined to achieve our vision by providing exemplary programming which maximizes student development in all areas.

● To achieve a district-wide average composite score of 24 on the ACT for each senior class

● To realize a 10 percent increase in participation and pass rates (3 or higher) on AP exams across the district

● To increase the availability and participation of students in athletics ● To increase the availability and participation of students in the fine arts ● To provide and maintain adequate core facilities to meet the academic, arts and

athletic vision of the district

*The Williamson County Student Handbook is available online at www.wcs.edu and should be reviewed by each family. If you would like to request a paper copy of the student handbook, please notify the office.

Jordan Elementary School Mission

World Class, Every Class

Jordan Elementary Student Chant

We Are Jets

We are Jets Watch us Fly

Persevere and not just try

We are Jets We will soar

Learning more than we knew before

We are Jets We’re a team

Working together to make the dream

We are Jordan

http://www.wcs.edu/



We are Jets Everyday we do our best

Seat Belts on

Fuel is in Wings are up

Now let’s begin



ARRIVAL/DISMISSAL Arrival: The building is unlocked for students at 8:35 AM. For safety and supervision reasons, no one should arrive before 8:35 A.M. (If you are enrolled in SACC, designated doors will open at 6:30 AM.) Car Riders will report to the gym until 8:40. At 8:40, students will be released to their classrooms. Bus riders will remain in the cafeteria until 8:40. They will then be dismissed to their classrooms.

Students not in their classroom by 8:50 AM will be counted tardy and should be accompanied into the office by an adult for check-in. Students who are excessively tardy miss important directions and organizational time at the start of the school day. Additionally, they may disrupt the classroom as they enter after the school day has begun. We encourage students to arrive promptly at school each day.

Car Riders Arrival Procedures:

● Cell phones should not be used while operating a car or in the car rider lane. ● All vehicles should proceed to the rear entrance of the school building and

merge to the right lane closest to the building. For safety of all, only one lane of traffic is permitted. Please do not pass cars.

● Each vehicle should pull forward to the yield corner. ● All children should exit on the sidewalk/passenger side of the vehicle. ● All drop-offs should take place through the Car Rider Line. ● Once the child has exited and cleared the vehicle, drivers are released. ● Parent escorts are allowed from the parking lot; however, drop-offs are not

permitted from the parking lot. Visitors will not be allowed to enter the building through the rear entrance.

● All visitors must enter through the front main entrance and sign in at the office. ● Please follow the instruction of the staff present. ● Parking is not allowed in traffic areas. ● Be Nice

Early Dismissal: A note is required for early dismissal. Children must be picked up in the office and signed out of school by the parent, guardians, or others designated on the emergency card. Early Dismissals are not permitted after 3:15, unless it is an emergency. Your child’s safety is the utmost concern to us. Dismissal during this time causes confusion and disruption, which results in an unsafe and disorderly environment.

Dismissal: School will be dismissed at 3:50 PM.

• Car riders will be dismissed from the school building’s rear entrance.



• Bus riders will be dismissed through the cafeteria. The WCS Transportation Department will be calling using an automated call-out if buses are running more than 15 minutes late in the afternoon.

• Walkers and bike riders will be dismissed from the front entrance and walked to the school property line. Parents are encouraged to meet their child at the school’s property edge.

Transportation Changes: If a student’s means of transportation needs to be changed, written permission from parents is required. Such communication should be directed to the student’s homeroom teacher and Attendance Secretary. Email, faxes, and voicemails are not appropriate forms of communication if leaving time sensitive communication. Please keep in mind that teachers are presenting content bell to bell and may not be able to attend to emails at the end of the school day. In addition, there are times where a substitute teacher or teacher assistance is covering a class and would not have access to the classroom teacher’s email or voicemail. Students without written permission for a transportation change will be sent home according to their daily dismissal procedure.

Car Rider Dismissal Procedures: ● Patience and consideration for the safety of students and courtesy to staff is

appreciated. The safety of our students is the top priority. ● Car riders are dismissed through the rear entrance at 3:50 P.M. ● Parents should obtain a Car Rider Tag annually (at the Back to School Bash) or

from the school’s office. Two tags can be issued per family. Students will not be released from the car rider area without a Car Rider Tag. Those without a Car Rider Tag will be required to return to the school’s main office to show identification.

● Parents are asked to form lines in each of the two lanes by pulling all the way forward to the yield line. SUV’s and taller vehicles are encouraged to use the far, outside lane from the school building when possible. This helps create better sight lines for safety and allows a better view for parents/students.

● Please refrain from “flagging” or waving at your child while engines are running and/or cars are moving.

● Turn off cell phones and engines for safety. ● Parents should remain in or stand beside their vehicles. Parents will be asked to

return to their vehicle if necessary. ● Car Rider Tags will be collected from each vehicle by school faculty and staff

prior to beginning dismissal procedures. ● Only cars between the loading zones will be loaded. There are usually 2-3

rotations of cars. ● Students are not released to parents in the parking lot or in other areas unless

loading legally in an ADA accessible parking space.



● Once students are released, they will walk on the sidewalk in the direction of their vehicles with their Car Rider Tags in hand.

● Please load quickly and buckle up for safety. Engines should remain off. ● Parents must make arrangements to share Car Rider Tags in cases where a non-

custodial person is picking up a student (ex. grandparents, sibling, family friend, etc.). This is the responsibility of the parents.

● All cars will be released at the same time once all students are safely loaded. ● Thank you for your patience and helping keep all our students safe and secure.

Please note transportation to and from school is also provided by the school bus. ● Be Nice.

Walkers & Bicycle Riders: Students riding bicycles to school must park their bikes in the bike racks provided. Using a bicycle lock is advised. Bicycles must stand up at or in the racks. Bicycles cannot be left lying on the sidewalk or in the grass. The school cannot assume responsibility for loss or damage to bicycles. Please emphasize bicycle safety, bicycle laws, the use of helmets and manners to your children if they ride their bicycles to/from school. Students should walk their bicycles while on school property. A Walker’s and Bicycle Rider’s permission form is available on the school website or classroom teacher and should be returned to the office before choosing this mode of transportation to and from school each year. In the event of inclement weather at dismissal, it is parent’s discretion if their child will remain a walker or bike rider for dismissal. Only students in grades 3rd-5th are eligible to be bike riders, unless escorted by a parent or older sibling.

Bus Transportation/StopFinder: Williamson County Schools Transportation Department’s "StopFinder" is an app-based program that allows parents or guardians to view the location of their child’s bus during transportation hours. The program uses bus GPS data to provide parents an estimated time of arrival at the assigned bus stop during morning pick up and afternoon drop off. The goal is to increase student safety and improve communication regarding changes to bus schedules. We recommend registering for the service on a mobile device, such as a cell phone or tablet.

Bus Riders Bus Riders will be dismissed from the cafeteria when their respective bus arrives. Students will line up and load the bus beginning with Kindergarten and ending with 5th

grade.

Transportation Services Students may not be picked up from an Uber or Lyft. These companies typically prohibit minors from being transported alone. Alternative forms of student transportation to and from school should be approved by the school’s office.



ASSESSMENTS Williamson County Students participate in both formative and summative assessments. Formative assessments are ongoing classroom assessments utilized to inform instruction. Examples include exit tickets, quizzes, unit tests, STAR universal screeners, AIMS Web universal screeners, KWL charts, and Performance Matters/Unify benchmark assessments. Summative assessments typically take place at the end of a course. They are utilized to guide the school on overall approaches and strategies for instruction.

Students in grades K-5 will participate in the district-wide reading and math STAR screener. Students in grades 3-5 will participate in state and district assessments. During assessment windows, we ask that parents make every attempt to help students get a good night’s rest, eat a healthy breakfast, and arrive to school before the tardy bell.

Please refer to the following link for information regarding district assessments including the assessment calendar. https://www.wcs.edu/domain/1190

ATTENDANCE Consistent attendance and punctuality is a cornerstone of student progress and success. If students repeatedly miss school or are often tardy, it puts them at risk for misunderstanding concepts that are taught and reinforced while they are not present. Additionally, student attendance is one of the categories the federal and state governments use to evaluate schools and assess whether they are making adequate yearly progress. Consistent attendance is a priority at Jordan.

Student attendance will be taken daily, even while learning remotely. If your child is ill or otherwise is unable to attend a scheduled learning session, please contact your child’s teacher. Teachers will be posting daily classroom materials and activities to their Google Classroom.

Tardies and Early Dismissals (before 3:50) Students are tardy if they are not in their classrooms by 8:50 AM. Students may be dropped off at school starting at 8:30 AM. As arrival processes may take longer to include screenings, principals will be more flexible this year on tardies. If you need childcare prior to this time, please contact our SACC program.

Late arrival and early dismissal may be excused for the following reasons: (1) illness, (2) death in the family, (3) recognized religious holiday, (4) doctor or dentist appointment, or (5) Principal approved emergency or exceptional circumstances.

https://www.wcs.edu/domain/1190



Early dismissals are strongly discouraged after 3:15. (except in an emergency) due to safety issues and the interruption of instructional time in classes. Instructional time extends until dismissal at 3:50 PM.

The parent must sign the student out in the office at dismissal time stating time and reason, and office personnel will call the student to the office when the parent arrives to pick up the student. A student is considered absent for the day if they are picked up prior to 12:20 PM.

Excused Absences Excused absences include: (1) illness, (2) death in the family, (3) recognized religious holiday, (4) doctor or dentist appointment, or (5) Principal approved emergency or exceptional circumstances.

Written Documentation The Williamson County School Board Policy 6.200 requires written parental or medical documentation for all absences, tardies, and early dismissals. This documentation ensures that school personnel are fully and accurately informed about your child. All absences are considered “unexcused” until a note is sent, preferably within 48 hours of the student’s return to school. When a student’s absences exceed 8 days, a doctor’s note will be required to excuse all future absences with the exception of bereavement and religious holiday. Notes are kept on file for the school year. Parents may also send an email with all appropriate information to their teacher AND our attendance secretary.

Notes should state:

● child’s name ● teacher’s name ● date(s) of absence ● reason for absence ● doctor’s note attached (if applicable) ● parent or guardian signature

School Notification When a student accumulates a total of 8 excused absences, all other absences will be considered unexcused unless a doctor’s note is presented upon the day of returning to school.

In accordance with new state guidelines for schools related to truancy, Williamson County Schools has implemented a three-tiered system to monitor attendance. Parents will be notified as unexcused absences accumulate (recorded) to proactively help with truancy concerns.

● 3 unexcused absences - parents will be notified via email.



● 5 unexcused absences – a phone call will be made by school personnel to develop a contract. The team will create the plan with the family to ensure subsequent school attendance. Follow-up meetings will be planned to monitor progress.

● If the student continues to accumulate absences, additional interventions will be established.

● The new Tennessee Department of Education Accountability Regulations (ESSA) defines students as "chronically absent" after 18 absences per year, regardless of excused or unexcused. Students who accumulate 18 or more absences will be considered “Chronically Absent” and reported to the state.

WCS Progressive Truancy Intervention Plan Tier I Tier I of the progressive truancy intervention plan shall include the following: 1. A conference with the student and the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s); 2. 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 9

disciplinary action and potential referral to juvenile court; and 3. Regularly scheduled follow-up meetings to discuss the student’s progress. Tier II

If a student accumulates additional unexcused absences in violation of the attendance contract in Tier I, the student will be subject to Tier II. Under this tier, a school employee shall conduct an individualized assessment detailing the reasons a student has been absent from school. The employee may refer the student to counseling, community-based services, or other services to address the student’s attendance problems. Tier III This tier shall be implemented if the truancy interventions under Tier II are

unsuccessful. 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 Superintendent of Schools/designee.

Senate Bill 196 and TCA 49-6-3006



BE NICE Be Nice is the campaign utilized by Williamson County Schools. Jordan Elementary is proud to endorse and participate in this campaign. The slogan has spread like wildfire as students and staff embrace the idea behind a campaign that's meant to encourage kindness. The movement began at Fairview High School and was adopted district-wide for the 2014 school year. Help us spread the word in our community and model this expectation for our children.

BEHAVIOR

All students are expected to adhere to the following school expectations: Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be A Friend. Individual classroom teachers will establish classroom procedures for meeting these expectations. If a student fails to meet expectations, it may result in a conference with school administration. Administrative consequences will be determined based on behavior and any prior behaviors or interventions. Consequences may include but are not limited to: time in the office, silent lunch, ISS (in school suspension) and possible OSS (out of school suspension). In addition, all Sunset students are expected to follow WCS policies, procedures and guidelines concerning discipline for any offenses concerning Zero Tolerance and Zero Tolerance reasoned judgement offenses.

“BULLY-FREE” SCHOOL Bullying is not tolerated. We ask all parents and students to report any bullying to a teacher or staff member in the building. The report will be investigated by administration within 48 hours. The investigation and required intervention will be implemented within 20 calendar days. Administration will notify the parent/guardian of any students involved immediately. Administration will also provide information regarding any support services available. Administration will follow investigation procedures and definitions set forth in policy 6.3032. Behavior that is found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to discipline, up to and including suspension.

Bullying is defined by Tennessee law as any act that substantially interferes with a student’s educational benefits, opportunities or performance. Bullying is: 1) repeated, 2)



intentional harm, 3) against someone perceived with less power. Bullying has the effect of:

1. Physically harming a student or damaging a student’s property 2. Knowingly placing the student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to

the student or damage to the student’s property. 3. Causing emotional distress to a student or students; or 4. Creating a hostile educational environment.

If a student needs help with resolving a conflict or if a student feels that he/she is being bullied, he/she should communicate with a staff member such as a teacher, counselor or administration. Families may also report bullying to a WCS toll free tip line. The toll- free number is 1-855-284-0669. Incidents can also be reported via email at [email protected].

Children need a worry-free environment in order to do their very best in school. Unfortunately, teasing and bullying are realities for some students. While these actions are not prevalent, any incident can be discouraging to a child and disruptive to the learning process. The learning of appropriate social skills is a vital part of the educational process.

Bullying can include any behaviors initiated by one or more students against a victim that are deliberate and hurtful and are repeated over time. The key components of bullying are that it is unprovoked, and that the physical or psychological intimidation occurs repeatedly over time, creating a pattern of harassment or abuse.

These incidents may NOT be considered bullying:

1. Not liking someone - It is natural that people do not like everyone around them and, as unpleasant as it may be to know someone does not like you, verbal and non-verbal messages of "I don't like you" or “I don’t want to play with you” are not acts of bullying.

2. Being excluded -It is very natural for people to gather around a group of friends and we cannot be friends with everyone, so it is acceptable when kids have a party or play a game at the playground, they will include their friends and exclude others. It is very important to remind kids they do the same thing sometimes too and, although exclusion is unpleasant, it is not an act of bullying.

3. Accidentally bumping into someone - When people bump into others, the reaction depends mostly on the bumped person's mood. This is also relevant for playing sports; physical contact is a part of certain sports. It is very important for teachers and parents to explain that some accidents happen without any bad intention and it is important not to create a big conflict, because it was not an act of bullying.

4. Making other kids play things a certain way - Again, this is very natural behavior. Wanting things to be done our way is normal and is not an act of

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bullying. To make sure kids do not misinterpret it as an aggressive or "bossy" behavior, we need to teach them assertiveness.

5. A single act of telling a joke about someone - Making fun of other people is not fun for them, but the difference between having a sense of humor and making fun of someone is very fine line. It is important to teach kids (and grown-ups) that things they say as jokes should also be amusing for the others. If not, they should stop. Unless it happens repeatedly and done deliberately to hurt someone, telling jokes about people is not bullying.

6. Arguments - Arguments are heated disagreements between two (or more) people (or groups). It is natural that people have different interests and disagree on many things. The argument itself is not a form of bullying, although some people turn arguments into bullying, because they want to win the argument so badly. They use every means to get what they want and find a weakness in the other person, abuse knowledge or trust they have gained and use it against the other person. It is very important to distinguish between natural disagreements and bullying during an argument.

7. Expression of unpleasant thoughts or feelings regarding others - Again, communication requires at least two players. Although it may be unpleasant to hear what someone thinks about you, it is not a form of bullying but a very natural thing. In every communication, there are disagreements and some form of judgment about each other's attitude and behavior.

8. Isolated acts of harassment, aggressive behavior, intimidation or meanness - The definition of bullying states that there is repetition in the behavior. Bullying is a conscious, repeated, hostile, aggressive behavior of an individual or a group abusing their position with the intention to harm others or gain real or perceived power. Therefore, anything that happens once is not an act of bullying.

All the behaviors above are unpleasant and need to be addressed but are not to be considered as bullying. Considering the parties involved, intent, severity, and frequency of the behavior is essential when determining the course of action by the classroom teacher and/or administration.

Consequences for a student who commits an act of harassment or bullying shall be unique to the individual incident and will vary in method and severity according to the nature of the behavior, the developmental age of the student, and the student’s history of problem behaviors. Remedial measures shall be designed to:

● Correct the problem behavior ● Prevent another occurrence of the behavior ● Protect the victim of the act ● Help the student understand how the other person feels

We believe it is imperative for the home and school to work harmoniously in helping students evolve into responsible individuals who can demonstrate good character traits



while weighing the rights and interests of others at the same time. This learning related to character development is as important as academic achievement. Parents, students, teachers, and administrators contribute to a positive environment where children feel safe and have an opportunity to learn. Developing good character traits will allow students to learn empathy and celebrate everyone’s achievements. It is our goal to ensure our school environment is a place where students want to be and where they see themselves as capable of success. The goal of our school is to stop the behavior from continuing, prevent further incidents, teach empathy and positive social skills, involve the appropriate parents, and implement suitable consequences when necessary.

CELL PHONES & OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES Cell phones, smart watches and cameras may not be used to take pictures or video in the school setting. If, as a parent, you feel that it is imperative for your child to have a cell phone/smart watch at school for after-school communication, it is to remain in the student’s backpack, powered-down during the school day and during bus transports to and from school. All items in backpacks are the responsibility of the student and the school is not liable for ANY loss or damage incurred. We are working to keep students focused on learning. All electronic games, toys, trading cards, music players, virtual pets, hand-held electronic games, etc. are not permitted and should not be seen or heard during the school day. If any of these items are seen or heard during the school day they will be taken up and returned only to a parent/guardian.

Jordan Elementary teachers work to incorporate technology into student learning on a regular basis. The student’s classroom teacher will communicate to parents any exceptions to this policy for that specific classroom and will communicate when it is appropriate to bring electronic devices from home. District information about BYOT (3rd- 5th) and the Acceptable Use Agreement for Digital Devices form for students must be electronically checked and agreed upon during the enrollment process for your child to participate in the use of technology. The school is not responsible for the security of personal technology devices; the responsibility is that of the students.

Jordan Elementary will follow the guidelines set by Williamson County Schools that can be located at www.wcs.edu. Any disciplinary actions regarding inappropriate behavior with a device will be handled on a case-by-case basis, which can include the loss of technology privileges for any amount of time as determined by the administration, as well as other disciplinary actions.

Parents are encouraged to attend any school or community meetings regarding digital citizenship. Students in kindergarten through twelfth grades participate in Internet safety training.

http://www.wcs.edu/



CAFETERIA/LUNCH As part of the U.S Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Summer Food Service Program, students receive the meals at no cost and the school district is reimbursed for each full meal served. WCS summer menus will look different at each school site. Please reach out to your child's Summer School for more information on their specific daily menu for breakfast and lunch. All meals will be at no cost, with a la carte options available.

For students who are learning at home, meals are available at no cost by filling out a Meal Kit form. The free meals do not apply to a la cart items such as snacks or extra entrees which may still be purchased at full price.

As an example, there are three food components that make up a school breakfast. They are fruits, grains, and milk. For the district to be reimbursed for the meal, the student must choose a minimum of two food items and no more than three. In addition, none of the items may be duplicates.

For lunch, students must select an entrée and at least two other food components. If desired, they can take all five of the components listed below. If a child only chooses to take the minimum number of components, one of the items must be a fruit or vegetable. The five components that make up a school lunch are:

• One Entree – Protein • Vegetables • Fruits • Grains • One Milk or Juice

For students who are learning at home, free meals are available by filling out a Meal Kit form. The free meals do not apply to a la cart items such as snacks or extra entrees which may still be purchased at full price.

Meal Kits are available to order for students that are learning remotely. The weekly meal kit will contain five complete breakfasts and five complete lunches as well as reheating instructions. Ordering meal kits for the 2021 - 2022 school year will begin on August 6, 2021. Parents who wish to participate need to preorder their meals every week by filling out the Meal Kit Order Form. The cafeteria manager will then contact the parent to let them know where and when they can pick up their meal kits. Pick up days are only Tuesday and Thursday.

Carbonated drinks are not allowed in the cafeteria. Please send items in your child’s lunch that can be easily managed by the child. Sharing of food is not permitted because of possible food allergies. No outside vendor lunches from restaurants are allowed.



This will eliminate any dissatisfaction, disappointment, hurt feelings, etc. of students while dining with friends/fellow students and will also protect our students with food allergies.

Visitors are allowed for lunch sessions. All visitors should check in through the front office. We also ask that visitors refrain from bringing outside food and drink into the building for their students.

CELEBRATIONS

We love to honor and celebrate students at Jordan. There will be two class parties scheduled during the year. The parties will be a time for students to participate in fun activities with their classmates. It is vital that staff and parents be mindful of food allergies when planning for celebrations. Food allergies can be life-threatening and are a serious concern to all schools. We have several students with serious food allergies. Therefore, we will make every effort to protect students with allergies while not taking away from traditional childhood celebrations. The guidelines listed below are in accordance with the district's Wellness Policy.

Class Parties

All celebrations must be pre-planned with the classroom teacher. The room parents and party planners for each classroom organize celebrations and coordinate the plans with the teachers. As we work to keep our buildings and children safe, parties will no longer be open to all family members. Only the party planners (2 per class) and PTO Board members will be allowed to attend/facilitate parties. All foods for scheduled schoolwide and classroom celebrations must be pre-packaged with ingredient and nutritional values listed. Food made from home may not be distributed during the school day or brought into the classroom.

Birthdays

Students love to celebrate birthdays at school, as it is a memorable time to share with teachers and friends. In an effort to abide by the WCS Wellness Policy as well as address the increasing number of students with food allergies or diabetes, we are asking all parents to follow these simple guidelines when planning for your child’s birthday this year. The school staff feels strongly that by following these guidelines, we are promoting a healthy lifestyle and maximizing learning:

• Send in a non-edible treat for everyone in the classroom such as pencils, bookmarks, etc.

• Donate a book in your child’s name to our school library. • Donate an educational game or book to your child’s classroom teacher in their

honor.



Your child’s birthday will also be recognized on our school-wide announcements and they will receive a card from the office. Again, the emphasis is on honoring your child on their birthday without a focus on food.

Individual invitations to private birthday parties may not be distributed during school hours unless there is an invitation for every child in the class or one for every student that is the same gender as your child (i.e. for your daughter, an invitation for every girl in the class). There is no need to put student names on these invitations as there will be enough for one per child. Please note that these invitations will be distributed to students in your child’s class only. Invitations sent to school where there is not one for every child in the classroom will be returned home.

CHARACTER EDUCATION-The 8 Keys of Excellence

● INTEGRITY – Match behavior with values Demonstrate your positive personal values in all you do and say. Be sincere and real.

● FAILURE LEADS TO SUCCESS – Learn from mistakes View failures as feedback that provides you with the information you need to learn, grow, and succeed.

● SPEAK WITH GOOD PURPOSE – Speak honestly and kindly Think before you speak. Make sure your intention is positive and your words are sincere.

● THIS IS IT! – Make the most of every moment Focus your attention on the present moment. Keep a positive attitude.

● COMMITMENT – Make your dreams happen Take positive action. Follow your vision without wavering.

● OWNERSHIP – Take responsibility for actions Be responsible for your thoughts, feelings, words, and actions. “Own” the choices you make and the results that follow.

● FLEXIBILITY – Be willing to do things differently Recognize what is not working and be willing to change what you are doing to achieve your goal.

● BALANCE – Live your best life Be mindful of self and others while focusing on what is meaningful and important in your life. Inner happiness and fulfillment come when your mind, body, and emotions are nurtured by the choices you make.

CHILD FIND Williamson County, in compliance with federal and state law, performs a countywide child find. Child find uses screening to find students who may need special education



services and supports. There are two types of screening. The first is a general screening of preschool age children in the county. The other kind of screening is only for school age children. A child can be referred for screening by school personnel, the family, and/or individuals in the county (physicians, childcare providers, etc.) This should be done any time it is suspected that a child has a disability. Children can be screened for the following areas:

● Hearing ● Vision ● Speech ● Social skills ● General health ● Dental health ● Growth

CHROMEBOOKS Chrome books will be provided at the beginning of the school year. Before students are issued a Chromebook, both the child and parent must read and sign the Acceptable Use Policy, the Video Conferencing form and the Authorization District Device form. These forms will be made available in Skyward prior to the start of school for review and acceptance.

Students must act responsibly with their Chromebooks. Teachers will review proper practices with students to maintain good condition. If a student willingly and intentionally damages a Chromebook, the student may be charged for repairs up to the total cost for replacement. Charges will be determined by administration.

The following is an excerpt from a WCS Procedure and Guidelines document regarding student issued devices that are damaged or lost, because of misuse or negligence:

“If there are specific items damaged or in need of replacement, specific costs for device repair or replacement are as follows:

Chromebook-$325 Screen-$100 Keyboard-$20 Power Adapter and AC Plug-$40

Students should take their Chromebook home nightly to charge the device, use the device for any assigned homework, and to be prepared for any transition to Remote Learning. Student issued Chromebook charge cords are not needed at school.



Students should enter a work order from their ClassLink Dashboard if they have a problem with their Chromebook. If the student is an “on campus student” and the device is not working, and they are unable to enter a work order, they should take their Chromebook to the library for temporary replacement.

CLINIC/ILLNESS We are very fortunate to have a full-time nurse on staff. She is committed to serving all students and staff. If a student becomes ill or injured at school, the teacher will have the student evaluated by the school nurse. Through her examination and in accordance with the district WCS Illness Guidelines, the nurse will determine treatment or if the student does not meet criteria to stay in school. The nurse will notify parents if a student becomes significantly ill or injured. The school is not equipped for prolonged care of your sick child. We ask that you or an emergency contact pick up your child within the hour that you are called. The school nurse may only administer medications that are provided and authorized by the parent/guardian. Please contact the school nurse for more information about medications.

Students will be checked for head lice by the school nurse when demonstrating symptoms of infestation. Parents of students with live lice or an active infestation will be asked to pick up their child as soon as possible to begin the treatment process. The student may return to school only after the hair has been treated appropriately and the parent presents proof of treatment.

When determining whether your child is well enough to attend school, please refer to the Williamson County Schools Illness Guidelines. Please note that your child should not be sent to school until he/she has been fever free for at least 72 hours without taking a fever reducing medication. In addition, if student is absent from school due to illness, he/she may not attend after school activities that same day.

If you have any other questions regarding health services, policies or procedures, please visit the Williamson County Schools Health Services Site.

COMMUNICATION Ongoing, two-way communication between the school and home and from home to school is essential in working together as partners in providing excellence in education for all students. Your ideas, questions, and concerns are important to the Jordan Team. We welcome your notes, calls, and visits. Listed below are ways we work to communicate with parents:

● Back to School Bash ● Grade Level Parent Orientations & Open House ● Jordan Student/Parent Handbook



● PTO meetings ● PTO web page ● PTO Membership Tool Kit ● Newsletters ● Teacher-Parent Phone Calls ● Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences ● Date Reports, Progress Reports, & Report Cards ● School & District Websites ● Education Articles in Local Newspapers ● Automated Phone/Email Callouts ● Home Folders ● Parents should sign up for the county’s district-wide communication, In-Focus,

at www.wcs.edu, which will be sent twice monthly with district news and events.

E-mail Policy: All teachers have a published e-mail address. Although you may wish to communicate with your child’s teacher by e-mail, please be aware that e-mail is not always confidential. Please do not send time sensitive information by e-mail as the system is occasionally down and teacher’s instructional schedules do not allow for immediate response. Teachers are presenting instructional content bell to bell; therefore, they may not have opportunity to attend to or respond to email immediately.

Voice Mail Policy: All teachers have published voicemail extensions that can be accessed by calling 472- 5270. Please do not leave time sensitive messages by voice mail, as teachers’ instructional schedules do not allow for immediate response. To keep in communication with parents, teachers will check their voice mail before and after school each day.

School staff will make every effort to return parent communication within 24 business hours.

CREATING AN ENVIRONMENT FOR LEARNING We believe it is imperative for the home and school to work harmoniously in helping students grow into responsible individuals who can demonstrate good character traits while weighing the rights and interest of others at the same time. This learning related to character development is as important as academic achievement. Developing good character traits will allow students to learn empathy and celebrate everyone’s achievements. It is our goal to ensure our school environment is a place where students want to be and where they see themselves as capable of success.

http://www.wcs.edu/



CUSTODIAL PARENTING ISSUES Parents must inform the school immediately upon any changes in custody, especially court restraining orders and order of protection. Non-custodial parents requesting information for a student should provide the child’s teacher with self-addressed, stamped envelopes for periodically mailing information, or arrangements may be made for the child’s teacher to collect information to be transported with the student to the non-custodial parent. All families with a parenting plan must have that plan on file in the school office along with any subsequent orders or changes to the parenting plan. Students will be unable to register for school without a parenting plan or court order establishing the primary care parent, should any court order exist.

DELIVERIES While the school realizes that students occasionally forget an item at home, we encourage parents to allow their students to take responsibility for their own items. If you need to drop off a forgotten lunch or homework assignment, please have their name on the item and deliver it to the office. Parents will not be allowed to deliver items during instructional time to the classroom. The item will be delivered by school personnel or the student will be permitted to pick up the item in the office at an appropriate time. Since it can be disruptive in a classroom, the school does not allow deliveries of flowers, balloons, birthday cakes, etc. to students during the school day. The school is not responsible for items not picked up by students.

DISCIPLINE The purpose of discipline at Jordan Elementary School is to maintain a positive and orderly learning environment for all students, while helping students to learn to manage their own personal choices. We believe that relationships of mutual respect are foundational to learning. Maintaining an effective school climate requires the cooperation and the commitment of students, parents, and teachers.

A copy of your child’s classroom management plan will be sent home at the beginning of the year. Each teacher will establish and teach expected behaviors, which are based upon respect and will enhance the learning process. When compliance of these rules does not occur, a progressive discipline approach is used. This may include the following: student conference, parent contact, parent conference, loss of privilege, detention, suspension and expulsion.

It is the desire of both parents, and school personnel, that students grow in the direction of appropriate/acceptable behavior at school and at home. We know that problems, conflicts, and misunderstandings arise from time to time. Our responsibilities as adults must always be to teach children acceptable ways to deal with conflict, anger, and hurt feelings. We can best do this by our own examples and by insisting that



students respect themselves, their peers, their parents, and all school personnel. We will not tolerate disrespect. Students will always be expected to show respect for themselves and others. Unsafe/inappropriate behavior as well as responding to conflict in a physical way (hitting, fighting etc.) is not acceptable.

Jordan Elementary School follows all Williamson County School’s policies, procedures, and guidelines concerning discipline for Zero Tolerance & Zero Tolerance Reasoned Judgement offenses.


Office Referral Discipline Plan

The disciplinary actions listed below are a minimum recommendation for any of the offenses listed in this document. Administrative discretion, regarding consequences, will be used based on the severity of the offense. Parent Contact will be initiated for each offense. The following consequences are in compliance with WCS policies 6.3061 and 6.316.

BYOT Prohibited Items or Misuse of Technology 1st Offense: Teacher verbal warning 2nd Offense: Teacher will confiscate device to be returned to student at the end of the day and parent notification 3rd Offense: Teacher will confiscate device, turn it into the office and parent will be required to pick up the device from the office; Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan (Loss of BYOT privileges could occur)

Cheating/Plagiarism 1st Offense: Administrator notified with documented proof, parent notification, and student will redo assignment 2nd Offense: ½ Day ISS and 1st offense consequence 3rd Offense: 1 Day ISS and 1st offense consequence; Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan

Defiance/Disobedience/Disrespect 1st Offense: Administrative referral, parent notification, silent lunch in the office and student loss of recess 2nd Offense: ½ Day ISS and parent notification 3rd Offense: 1 Day ISS and parent notification 4th Offense: Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan

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Disrespect 1st Offense: Parent Contact by Teacher 2nd Offense: Parent/teacher Conference 3rd Offense: Administrative referral, parent notification, silent lunch in the office and student loss of recess 4th Offense: Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan

Excessive Distraction or Disruptive Behavior 1st Offense: Parent Contact by Teacher 2nd Offense: Parent/teacher Conference 3rd Offense: Administrative referral, parent notification, silent lunch in the office and student loss of recess 4th Offense: Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan

Lying/Dishonesty 1st Offense: Parent Contact by Teacher 2nd Offense: Parent/teacher Conference 3rd Offense: Administrative referral, parent notification, silent lunch in the office and student loss of recess. Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan

Inappropriate Language or Gestures/Use of Profanity (written or verbal) 1st Offense: Administrative referral, parent notification, silent lunch in the office and student loss of recess 2nd Offense: ½ Day ISS and parent notification 3rd Offense: 1 Day ISS and parent notification; Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan

*Administrative discretion will be used to determine severity of consequences based on direct/indirect use. Consequences can range from silent lunch and loss of recess to OSS.

Stealing/Theft 1st Offense: Restitution/ ½ Day ISS and parent notification 2nd Offense: Restitution/ 1 Day ISS and parent notification 3rd Offense: Restitution/ 1 Day OSS and parent notification; Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan

Student Conflict Harassment of Students (verbal, repetitive and/or bullying) 1st Offense: Parent Contact by Teacher



2nd Offense: Administrative referral, parent notification, silent lunch in the office and student loss of recess 3rd Offense: Administrative referral, parent notification, ½ day ISS 4th Offense: Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan

Offensive Touching, or Physical Contact 1st Offense: Parent Contact by Teacher 2nd Offense: Administrative referral, parent notification, silent lunch in the office and student loss of recess 3rd Offense: Administrative referral, parent notification, 1-day ISS; 4th Offense: Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan

Causing Physical Injury *Administrative discretion will be used to determine severity of consequences based on an investigation of the incident. Consequences can range from loss of privileges to OSS.

Transportation WCS Rules and Regulations will be followed. Failure to follow these may result in the following disciplinary actions: 1st Offense: Driver completes Bus Behavior Referral Form & submits to Administrator, student warning and parent notification 2nd Offense: Administrator notifies parent to set up conference 3rd Offense: Suspension from school bus (3 days up to expulsion from WCS bus transportation privileges)

The Transportation Department has also published a quick guide Bus Safety Brochure which is available in pdf version on the WCS website. The number for WCS Transportation Department is 615-472-4950.

Vandalism 1st Offense: Restitution/ ½ Day ISS and parent notification 2nd Offense: Restitution/ 1 Day ISS and parent notification 3rd Offense: Restitution/ 1 Day OSS and parent notification; Team (parent, teacher, administrator) conference to discuss appropriate consequence and develop individual plan

Positive Behavior Intervention & Support/Comprehensive Integrated 3 Tiered (PBIS/CI3T) Positive Behavior Intervention Support or a Comprehensive Integrated Three-Tiered model of prevention CI3T combines academic, behavioral, and social skills components into primary, secondary, and tertiary interventions. CI3T provides early identification

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and intervention of students with, or at risk, of developing academic and/or behavior problems. The model helps Jordan Elementary structure and coordinate RTI, PBIS, and social skills programs to best meet the needs of the students.

The purpose of the comprehensive three-tiered plan at Jordan Elementary is to develop students who are well-adjusted academically, socially, and behaviorally in order to prepare them for future academic and community interactions.

School-Wide Expectations 1. Be Respectful 2. Be Responsible 3. Be a Friend

Jordan Elementary Expectation Matrix

Settings Expectations Classroom Hallway Cafeteria Playground Bathroom Bus Arrival/Dismissal

Be Responsible

Bring required materials and be ready to learn

Participate in class activities

Follow Directions

Walking on the third block on the right side, quietly with hands to self

Use hallway time appropriatel y and efficiently

Follow directions for drills and emergency procedures

Follow cafeteria procedures: Enter quietly and remain in line.

Four students enter food line at a time.

Appropriate attire for outside

Use the restroom before going outside

Respond immediately when teacher/adult calls

Report problems or unsafe behavior to teacher

Use restroom quickly/approp riately and return to classroom

Wash hands with soap

Enter and exit quickly and quietly. When using gym bathroom, no more than 4 students at a time. Others wait in quiet line.

Remain in seat

Use self- control

Have all your materials before going to bus

Know how you are getting home each day

Walking on the third block on the right side, quietly with hands to self

Stay in assigned area

Turn in required classroom work, homework

Know your number.

Stay in your seat/table.

Go directly to your bus dismissal location

Bring to school and take home all necessary materials

Complete work with best effort

Clean up after yourself

Use time wisely, remain on task and stay focused

Be

Respond appropriately

Be courteous of

Listen to adult

Be kind to peers while

Give others privacy and

Listen to the bus driver

Listen to all announcements and

Respectful to conflict other requests playing games remain in own (follow respond to directions Cooperate with classrooms stall directions) others Use inside Use playground Use kind words Stay calm voices equipment Use the Quiet voices and actions and appropriately appropriate controlled in amount of



Listen and pay attention Keep hands feet and objects to self

Exercise self- control Enter the room quietly

conflict with adults and peers

Yield younger students/gra de levels in the hallways

Take care of playground equipment

Follow the rules to games and play fair

soap and paper towel.

Hands and feet to self

Be a Friend Kindly resolve conflict

Work together

Be courteous of other classrooms

Listen to adult requests

Speak and act kindly to others Include everyone

Give others privacy and remain in own stall

Use kind words with others

Use quiet voices

Help younger students who may be lost

Use kind words and actions Listen to others’ ideas

Stay calm and in the hallway Stay in your place in line

Speak kindly to others at your table Include everyone

Play fair

Invite someone new to your game

Leave the bathroom clean for others

Quiet voices Stand up for others when they are mistreated

Stay with your sibling(s) Have patience when exiting

Keep hands feet and objects to self

Take turns talking/sharing with others

Let others go before you

Stand up for others when they are mistreated

Share playground equipment

Keep the bus clean for others

DRESS CODE Williamson County Schools has approved a new Dress Code Policy (6.310) for the 2017- 18 school year. For WCS to maintain a safe learning environment that minimizes distractions, the minimum standards for acceptable clothing during the school day are as follows:

1) Tops of shoulders must have a minimum of a 1-inch strap unless otherwise covered by an opaque top garment.

2) Skin and undergarments must be covered with opaque clothing from the underarm to mid-thigh. Mid-thigh is defined as the mid-point between the waist and mid-knee.

3) All pants, trousers, shorts and skirts must be held at the waist.

4) Leggings and other compression-style garments may be worn so long as an opaque top garment covers the private body parts.

5) Hats may be worn in buildings with the permission of building administration.

6) Appropriate shoes are required.

7) Any type of clothing, apparel or accessory, including that which denotes such



students’ membership in or affiliation with any gang associated with criminal activities is not permitted (TCA 49-6-4215).

Any apparel or dress that advertises or promotes products or activity prohibited by law or by the Board of Education is prohibited (e.g., profanity, illustrations, or suggestive language, etc.). Student uniforms related to student extra-curricular activities (band, cheerleading, dance, sports team, etc.) must be in compliance with this policy during the academic day.

Any apparel or dress that is potentially disruptive to the learning environment or educational process is not permitted. Any apparel or dress that is dangerous to the health or safety of students or the lawful, peaceful operation of the school is not permitted.

Administrators and teachers shall enforce the dress code policy. The principal or his/her designee shall be the final judge as to compliance with the dress code.

EMERGENCY DISMISSAL Director of Schools or a public relations designee from the district will use the phone and email system to notify you of emergency closings. The school will follow the dismissal plan on each child’s emergency dismissal card on file in the office if school is dismissed early due to weather or other emergency conditions. Please make sure that the emergency dismissal information remains up to date.

FAMILY TRIPS In response to the new Tennessee Department of Education Accountability Regulations (ESSA), which defines students as "chronically absent" after 18 absences per year, regardless of excused or unexcused, WCS schools will be more conservative than in the past in regard to excusing absences due to family trips. Family trips should be scheduled during regularly planned breaks. Family trips will not be excused except for Principal approved emergencies or in exceptional circumstances with prior approval.

FIELD TRIPS Field trips are part of the regular academic day. However, the school must have written permission from the parent on file for a student to go on a field trip. Teachers will notify parents of time and dates of field trips. Permission forms will be sent home for parental signatures. Williamson County Policy directs that all students must ride the bus with the class, to and from all field trip locations. For the safety of the students, no siblings are allowed on field trips. Many times, prepayments must be made to a venue as well as transportation costs being determined based on grade level enrollment. For these reasons no refunds will be issued if your child does not attend a field trip. Payment for field trips must be made with a check or money order only (no cash payments). Any



chaperone must be a Tier 3 volunteer, meaning they must have completed their background check. Parents must make arrangements in advance with the classroom teachers in order to attend the trip. Drop-ins are not permitted for safety reasons.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION Annually, the school requires families to complete and Emergency Card on each child. It is vital in times of emergency that the school be in possession of information that will enable us to promptly and directly contact the parents. We request an emergency phone number other than the home phone. If either of these numbers change during the school year, please contact the office immediately. In the event of an early dismissal during the school day (such as inclement weather), we will follow the instructions as provided by you on the dismissal form and Family Access.

GRADING It is best practice to provide students on-going feedback to ensure learning. Feedback should point out areas of strength and areas that need improvement. Detailed feedback is found most useful in developing student behavior and growth. Students should also self-assess, peer-assess student work, and be able to set personal and academic goals.

Grades Kindergarten & 1st Grade Grading will comply with WCS Board Policy 4.600. Briefly summarized: Kindergarten and 1st Grade core content areas (Literacy, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies): 5 -The student has mastered grade level standards for this component and is engaged in deeper study. 4 -The student has mastered the standard. To be used in the 4th grading period only. 3-The student has been introduced to the standard and is making expected progress toward mastery. 2-The student has been introduced to the standard and is not making expected progress toward mastery. (Parent communication required.) 1-The student has not mastered the standard. The standard has not been introduced and/or assessed. To be used in the 4th grading period only.

Kindergarten Non-Core and Work Skills/Habits: S: Satisfactory: Has met expected outcomes P: In Progress: Is working towards expected outcomes Grades 1 and 2 Non-Core and Work Skills/Habits: S: Satisfactory: Has met expected outcomes P: In Progress: Is working towards expected outcomes U: Unsatisfactory: Not working towards expected outcomes.

Grades 2nd-5th



The basic grading system for content areas in grades 2nd through 5th is expressed by numerical grades on the report card with corresponding letter grade values below.

Grade Range A 91 - 100 B 81 - 90 C 72 – 80 D 70 - 71 F 0 - 69 I- Incomplete

Late assignments and projects may be accepted by the teacher for a reduced grade or an “Incomplete”. No assignment or project will be accepted after the end of the grading period or semester without special permission from the classroom teacher. Students failing to turn in an assignment or project will receive an “Incomplete” or zero until the work is complete or the grading period ends. A minimum grade of 69 will be recorded at the end of the grading period.

Parents will be kept informed as to their child’s academic progress. Parents are encouraged to regularly access their Family Access account to monitor grades and work completion. Every student will receive a report card for every grading period. Parents will receive interim progress reports or other notification whenever a significant change in performance occurs or whenever a student is failing.

COVID Change: Grades will not be weighted while students are in remote learning.

Board Policy: Report Cards and Grading Systems

HOMEWORK Regularly assigned homework is beneficial in assisting pupils to achieve satisfactory school progress and develop good study habits. Assignments are an extension of classroom work to provide reinforcement of skills and to help students become more proficient and independent with concepts presented in class. Homework should be completed independently with parents monitoring that it’s been attempted or completed. Homework should be: ● Rigorous: Homework will be challenging and appropriate to the developmental,

emotional, and academic levels of the students, will be structured for high completion rate, and will be designed to be done independently without the assistance of the teacher or parent.

● Relevant: Students will realize the value of the homework in both their immediate and long-range goals.

● Related: Teachers will relate homework directly to identify learning goals.

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If specific assignments are not made by the teachers, standing practice may include the following academically constructive activities: keyboarding skill practice, reading reviewing spelling words, handwriting, or reviewing math facts for fluency. Reading is encouraged nightly.

Students in grades K-2 should spend no more than 30 minutes nightly on homework assignments. Students in grades 3-5 should spend no more than 1 hour nightly on homework assignments.

If a student is consistently spending more time on homework than the aforementioned guideline, then parents are encouraged to contact their child’s teacher.

Students who are absent may request homework to be picked up only after missing two consecutive days of school. Please email the student’s teacher(s) by 10 A.M. to allow time for teachers to organize missed work and assignments.

All homework assigned will be reviewed and feedback will be given to the student. Beginning with 3rd grade, when homework is given for a grade the percentage of the quarterly grade attributed to homework will not exceed 10%.

Teachers will not assign homework assignments over holidays or breaks during the school year or homework with a “due” date that immediately follows a vacation period.

Board Policy: Homework

IMMUNIZATION Chapter 76, Section 15: “No child shall, except as hereinafter provided, be admitted to school except upon presentation of a physician’s certificate, that the child has been successfully immunized against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, mumps, and rubella.” Requirements for Kindergarten also include immunizations against Hepatitis B and Chicken pox (or physician-documented history of disease). NOTE: Children exempt from physical examination and immunizations reasons must present a statement signed by the parent or guardian upon entrance.

INSTRUCTIONAL TIME Parents can help protect instructional time the following ways:

● Check to make sure students have needed items for school each day before the student leaves in the morning (lunch, lunch money, homework, and supplies).

● Ensure that students arrive to school in time to be in their classrooms by 8:35. ● Do not schedule appointments for students during the school day, if possible.



● Plan family vacations when school is not in session. ● Only visit classrooms when scheduled in advance with teachers and/or school

administration approval. ● Meet your child at the cafeteria door when having lunch at school and say

“goodbye” to your child in the cafeteria. ● Avoid early dismissal whenever possible. It disrupts the entire class when a child

leaves early.

INTERNET POLICY and ACCEPTABLE USE Students will have the opportunity to access the Internet for instructional purposes while on campus under close supervision. In addition, students will also need access to the internet at home when completing either remote or online schoolwork. Before students are allowed access WCS instructional resources online, both the child and parent must read and sign the Acceptable Use Policy, the Video Conferencing form, and the Authorization District Device form. These forms will be made available in Skyward prior to the start of school for review and acceptance. If your child violates these policies, they could lose technology access while at school.

LOST & FOUND A “Lost and Found” is located in the school. Parents and/or students may retrieve lost articles. It is a good idea to clearly mark items with the owner’s name so they can be returned without delay. This also discourages unauthorized borrowing. Eyeglasses and jewelry are not routinely placed with other articles, so please ask for these items in the school office. Unclaimed items remaining in Lost and Found at the end of the semester will be donated to a local charity.

MEDICATION Medication procedures are consistent with State of Tennessee Law TCA 49-5-415 and are being implemented in schools district wide. The intent of this legislation is to assure the safe administration of medications to children in school who require them. Please be aware of the following:

● The school must have an authorization form completed by the physician and the parent. These forms are available in the clinic.

● Medication must be in the original container, match the physician’s orders exactly and must be labeled by the pharmacy. Parents or legal guardians must bring the medication to school.

● If your child is taking an antibiotic that is prescribed for three times per day, parents should administer the medication before school, after school, and at bedtime. DO NOT send the antibiotic to school.



● Competent students are allowed to keep inhalers on their person as long as that is specified on the authorization form and signed by both parent and physician.

● If you are supplying over-the-counter medication, you must fill out the authorization form available in the clinic. All non-prescription drugs need to be in the original manufacturer's bottle with the child’s name affixed to the bottle.

● The school is required to designate school personnel to give medications to students on field trips. The school nurse is responsible for preparing the medication and giving it to the child’s teacher. However, if you do not want your child to receive medication on a field trip, you will need to put that in writing.

● All medicine should be picked up on the last day of school. You may stop by the clinic to retrieve your child’s medication. Medications left at school beyond the last student day will be safely disposed of.

MOMENT OF SILENCE- Tennessee State Law – (TCA 49-6-1004) For all students and teachers to prepare themselves for the activities of the day, a period of silence of approximately one minute in duration shall be maintained in each grade in public schools at the beginning of each school day. The teacher shall not indicate or suggest to the students any action to be taken by them during this time but shall maintain silence for the full time. It is lawful for any teacher in any of the schools of the state to permit the voluntary participation by students or others in prayer. Nothing contained in this section shall authorize any teacher or other school authority to prescribe the form or content of any prayer.

MONEY When money or checks are sent to school, please send in an envelope labeled with student name, teacher and purpose. Separate envelopes and separate forms of payment should be sent for each child. In order to discourage students from bringing large amounts of money to school and to ensure best accounting practices, Jordan will only accept checks for class fees, field trips, yearbook sales, and class pictures. Cash money is acceptable for book fairs, cafeteria purchases, and PTO events and fundraisers.

The Williamson County Schools Online School Payments (OSP) portal is an easy and safe way to send money. This service is provided to Williamson County School parents to facilitate payment for school fees and a variety of products and services. Simply access the website below, find the activity, and submit payment. For questions, please contact the school’s bookkeeper. https://osp.osmsinc.com/WilliamsonTN/

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES Communication must take place among parent, teachers, principal, and students in order to ensure a good learning environment. We encourage parents to contact the

https://osp.osmsinc.com/WilliamsonTN/



teacher by email to set up a conference or leave a message with their child’s teacher over the phone at 615-472-5270. If you wish to arrange a conference, please contact your child’s teacher in order to schedule a mutually convenient time.

Williamson County Schools Family Access gives parents the ability to track their child’s academic progress safely and securely online. Visit this site to register:

Parent-Teacher Conferences can be scheduled directly with the teacher throughout the school year; however, October 11 is a dedicated day established during the first quarter on the district calendar for conferences.

PERSONAL ITEMS Students may not bring items from home to play with during class time, NOR CAN THEY BRING electronic devices such as radios, music players, electronic games, trading cards, and virtual pets, toys, gum, balls, bats, etc. We are working to keep students focused on learning. The student’s classroom teacher will communicate to parents any exceptions to this policy for that specific classroom. The teacher will state when it is appropriate to bring items from home and what these specific items may be.

Students are not allowed to bring focus/concentration tools (fidget spinners, stress balls, silent fidgets, etc.) to school without prior discussion and approval from parents and teacher.

PET POLICY Due to allergies and potential safety concerns, pets are not allowed in the school building or on the school campus without permission from the classroom teacher and the administration.

PHOTOGRAPHS & RECORDINGS The procedures and guidelines below are written to ensure that parents and Parent Teacher Organizations are compliant with Williamson County Board of Education procedures regarding the publication of photos online. Visitors may not take photographs and/or post to social media during school events. School events are considered anytime between the hours of 6:30 AM- 6:00 PM. This is done to protect those families who do not wish to have their child's photo published.

Parents may photograph during community events (after 6:00 PM) that are open to the public. Class parties and field trips are not open to the public. They are an extension of the classroom and are protected areas.

https://skyward.wcs.edu/scripts/wsisa.dll/WService%3DwsEAplus/seplog01.w

http://www.wcs.edu/parents-students/wcs-family-access/





Parents or Parent Teacher Organizations may share photos of teachers assuming those teachers have given their approval; however, parents or Parent Teacher Organizations may not post pictures of teachers with students in the classroom unless they have a WCS media release and approval from the school.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGANCE Tennessee state law 49-6-1001 states that students and employees should not be compelled to recite the pledge of allegiance if they or their parents object on religious, philosophical, or other grounds. They must, however, sit or stand quietly during this time. A moment of silence should also be observed each day.

PTO (Parent-Teacher Organization) Parents and teachers are encouraged to be active members of the Jordan PTO. When sending in money or notes to PTO, have information sent in an envelope with PTO written on it. Envelopes should be placed in the PTO box located in the school’s office. Board Policy prohibits teachers from collecting money on behalf of our PTO.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY & RECESS Per Tennessee State Law, elementary students are required to participate in 130 minutes per week of physical activity. Physical education class and recess are examples of physical activity. In addition, elementary students are required to participate in physical education at least two times per week for at least 60 minutes per week. Therefore, students must have a doctor’s note in order to be excused from participating in recess or physical education.

Students are scheduled for a minimum of 20 minutes of recess daily. Recess is not be used as punishment; however, up to 10 minutes of recess may be used for students to complete unfinished work.

We strive to put safety first at Jordan. To that end, we have established common playground rules. • Playground equipment must be used correctly. Rules for slides, climbing

equipment and swings are reviewed at the beginning of each year and throughout the year as needed.

• Staff members observing children on the playground are equipped with a two-way radio for additional safety. Children may be removed from play for a “cool-down” period if involved in unsafe playground behavior.

• Children go to recess everyday unless it is raining or extremely cold/hot. Please keep this in mind when helping your child select clothing and shoes for the day. Jordan will follow Williamson County Schools Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) regarding whether students will go outside or have indoor recess. We all



value recess time and the opportunity for students to get some exercise; however, the effects of cold and heat exposure can be very uncomfortable and even life threatening. Therefore, guidelines have been established.

• Students will not go outside for recess when: o The outdoor temperature including wind chill is less than 32 degrees. In

addition, if the wind chill is less than 40 degrees with precipitation, students will not go outside.

o When the heat index is between 90 F and 100 F, administration, along with the school nurse will monitor and consider the appropriateness of outdoor activities. Recess time may be decreased. When the heat index is 100 F or greater students will not go outside for recess.

• Finally, WCS has provided guidelines regarding appropriate dress. The following has been recommended:

o Wind chill below 60 degrees: jacket or long sleeves recommended. o Wind chill below 50 degrees: coat and long pants recommended Wind chill

below 40 degrees: gloves and hats with previously recommended gear necessary

RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION & INSTRUCTION (RTI2) Tennessee and Williamson County Schools embrace the RTI2 framework for delivering increased levels of support to students. It promotes recommended practices for an integrated system connecting general and special education using high-quality, scientifically research-based instruction and intervention. The framework uses evidence- based instruction and interventions, progress monitoring, and evaluations to best support the needs of the students. The framework will be used as a pre-referral process to determine whether a child has a specific learning disability (SLD) in basic reading skills, reading comprehension, reading fluency, mathematics calculations, mathematics problem solving, or written expression for all students.

SACC (School Age Child Care) SACC offers before and after school care (6:30 am - 6:00 pm) at Jordan. SACC also has a summer program. Please click here for more information.

SCHOOL IMMUNIZATION LAW

CHAPTER 76, SECTION 15

SCHOOL SAFETY A student information card is on file in the office with the student’s updated emergency information. Please make sure you keep this information updated. Parents, and those




who transport students by car, are reminded to exercise caution while traveling on or near school property.

Visitor parking is only permitted in the front and side parking lot. The pick-up lane is open at the front and rear entrances for drop-off and pickup only. Use of cell phones by drivers, while in an active school zone (lights flashing) is prohibited by law. In addition to city and state law enforcement, Student Resource Officers have the authority to enforce the law.

A school safety plan is in place and has been vetted by law enforcement, emergency responders and the WCS Safety Director. The school’s safety plan is reviewed annually. Jordan Elementary conducts regular safety drills in accordance with the State of Tennessee. Fire, inclement weather, shelter-in-place, and lock-down drills are necessary for the safety of the students and staff; therefore, we practice them throughout the year. Safety plans are not shared with the community or general public in order to protect the integrity of the plan and its procedures.

IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING!

SPECIALS Each week students attend Specials classes as a part of their regularly scheduled academic program. Students will participate weekly in Library, Art, Music, Life Skills and Physical Education.

Library: The Jordan Library provides print, non-print and electronic resources and materials to support the curriculum of the Williamson County Schools. Our goal is that students not only become effective independent users of information, but also become lifelong learners with a love and appreciation of reading. Each class has a scheduled time to receive library instruction, return books and select new ones. Individual students may come to check out books throughout the day with teacher permission.

Art: Art class at Jordan uses a disciplined based art education approach to instruction and learning in art using four foundational disciplines in art - Art Production, Art Criticism, Art History and Aesthetics. Students focus on the "Elements of Art" (what we use to make art) and the "Principals of Design" (how it is arranged on the page) as they create. Students study different artists and cultures, they learn how to talk about art and to explain what they like about various works of art, including art of their peers. Students try to integrate what they are doing in the art room with what they are studying in the classroom.

Music: It is the goal of the music program at Jordan to introduce and involve students in the active creating and understanding of music. Throughout the year students will



discover new aspects of the world of music. Students will sing, dance, play instruments, compose and analyze music all in a supportive and exploitative environment. In the music room, we will explore music from other world cultures and time periods in history and how they relate to the world today. As part of the learning objectives, second and fourth grades will perform in grade level programs. Third through fifth grade students will have the opportunity to further their musical knowledge through choir. It is our goal that every student leaves Jordan with a solid foundation in music appreciation and the ability to create with the art form that we hear every day.

Life Skills: Each class comes to the Life Skills classroom for age appropriate lessons designed to engage the children in development of the following lifelong skills: respect for individual differences, self-esteem, emotional awareness, decision-making and problem-solving skills, study skills, goal-setting, social skills, conflict resolution, personal safety and drug prevention, career awareness, and understanding the career-school connection. Elementary school years set the tone for developing the knowledge, attitudes and skill necessary for children to become healthy, competent and confident learners. Through a comprehensive developmental school counseling program, counselors work as a team with the school staff, parents, and the community to create a caring climate and atmosphere. By providing education, prevention, early identification and intervention, school counselors can help all children achieve academic success.

Physical Education: We have planned a well-rounded instructional physical education program for students throughout the school year. It will be necessary for each student to participate in order to fully benefit from the program. The activities used in class will increase your child’s endurance, flexibility, strength and coordination, as well as provide a better understanding and appreciation of various sports. All students should have tennis shoes for this class. A doctor’s excuse is required for non-participation. Students participate in PE bi-weekly.

Student Activities: Each year Jordan offers a variety of school sponsored activities that students may participate in. These student activities are considered extracurricular and participation are at the discretions of the student/parent. Some student activities may have restrictions on the grade levels that may participate because of the nature, expectations, and content of the student activities. In addition, some student activities may have an application process or a limited number of participants, such as Student Council.

STUDENT PROGRESS Student progress may be accessed through Skyward Family Access for all students. Parents may request that a printed copy of their report card be sent home each nine weeks. Progress reports will be sent home before the fifth week of each nine-week



grading period. Teachers offer opportunities for parents to schedule conferences. Parents and teachers may request conferences at any time during the school year. Teachers will notify parents at any point if students are failing to show progress toward standards. Parents are highly encouraged to have an active Family Access account so they can regular monitor academic performance and attendance.

TENNESSEE COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT PROGRAM (TCAP) TCAP/TNReady scores will be incorporated into the second semester (spring) final grade for the subjects of mathematics, reading/language arts, science and social studies. Per WCS School Board policy 4.700 (Testing Programs) students’ TCAP scores will comprise fifteen percent (15%) of the final second semester grade.

District Procedure for Missed TCAP Assessments

Students who miss TCAP tests will receive one of the following grade consequences as determined by a WCS District Office committee:

I – INC -- incomplete E—EXC - excused 0 - ZERO

● If the committee assesses an incomplete grade for the missed TCAP test, then the incomplete will be averaged as a null grade--not counting in the second semester grade average-- and the student may be required to attend summer school to qualify for the next grade in school.

● If the committee assesses an excused grade for the missed TCAP test, then the grade will be averaged as a null-- not counting in the second semester grade-and the student will not be required to attend summer school or will not be retained in the current grade as a result of the missed TCAP.

● If the committee assesses a zero grade for the missed TCAP test, then the zero will be averaged into the second semester grade. A failing grade can result in required summer school or grade retention.

** Please note that TCAP assessments follow a pre-determined schedule for content area testing dates. Assessment(s) make-up time is available during the TCAP assessment window; however, early assessment of any of the tested subjects is prohibited.

TEXTBOOKS/LIBRARY BOOKS/SCHOOL PROPERTY Students should care for their textbooks/library books and school property responsibly. A complete textbook check will be made at the end of the school year. Lost or damaged books need to be paid for. If a textbook becomes lost or damaged during the school

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year, the teacher may issue another book only if the child has a receipt showing he has paid for the lost textbook. Any damage or loss is the financial responsibility of the student and their parents.

THREATS A threat is defined as any expression of intent to harm someone. Threats can be spoken, written, emailed, or expressed in some other way. When a threat is made, immediate action will be taken to protect students, employees and visitors. Administration will investigate and take appropriate action which may include discipline and support in the form of counseling or services. Please speak with your child about using appropriate language at school.

TOBACCO FREE CAMPUS The use of tobacco, including vaping products is prohibited on school property. This policy shall be in effect whether school is in session.

VISITORS All visitors are required to state their name, reason for visit, and show proper identification before entering the school building. All visitors must enter and exit through the main office doors. Parents, visitors, and volunteers must sign in and out in the office and wear either a visitor sticker or volunteer badge while on campus.

Tours of the school building are not typically conducted while students are present (6:30 AM-6:00 PM). Tours are only conducted to prospective families who can provide proof they are moving to the school’s zone.

Parents and visitors must schedule appointments to visit classrooms in the event of a conference or volunteering in the classroom. Parents must communicate in writing permission for someone to pick up a student other than the parent. Office personnel will ask for a driver’s license and/or passport as identification when checking a student out from school.

VOLUNTEERS The school team appreciates the efforts and support of the many parent volunteers who work in partnership to provide a safe and caring learning environment focused on the academic achievement of all students. Volunteer workers are needed. Please notify your child’s teacher or the PTO if you are interested.

Background Check and Fingerprinting – The school district established a three-tiered guideline to protect children and to continue to maintain the high levels of volunteerism



that we enjoy in our district. Please note that the Volunteer Application and Confidentiality Agreement is an annual expectation. All parents and community members who wish to volunteer at any level must complete that paperwork at Jordan. If you completed the district requirements for background checks and fingerprinting in a county school last year, then you are on our JES approved list. If you have not yet done so, you may want to consider this step.

Please note the three tiers. For district information regarding the tiers and how to be a volunteer click here.

Tier 1 does not require documentation. Tier 1 volunteers are those who volunteer occasionally; in a highly public setting with little or no contact with students; and who are under constant supervision by Williamson County Schools personnel.

Tier 2 requires the Volunteer Application and Confidentiality Agreement. Tier 2 volunteers are regular volunteers with student contact but are under constant supervision of Williamson County personnel.

Tier 3 requires the Volunteer Application and Confidentiality Agreement and a criminal background fingerprint check through the Williamson County Schools Human Resources Department. Tier 3 volunteers are those who have unsupervised contact with students on or off campus. Parents who work with small instructional groups of students during the school day or who chaperone field trips are considered Tier 3.

Classroom volunteers must schedule work dates and times with teachers. Volunteers may not bring young children to the classrooms or teacher workroom for safety reasons and to alleviate any distraction from the current instruction taking place.

WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURES If a move or other circumstance requires a withdrawal from school, a withdrawal form must be completed, all textbooks must be turned in, and a student must be in good standing with the library and cafeteria. Once all the qualifications are met, a parent/legal guardian may withdraw a student from school.

WCS FAMILY ACCESS All families of students in grades K-5th are strongly encouraged to sign up for Family Access at the start of each school year. Family Access gives 2nd-5th parents opportunities to view their child’s performance on assignments and assessments. You will need to complete an Acceptable Use Form too. (This form should be completed each school year when registering for an account. Accounts without a current form on file at the school will be suspended.) In the event you are having difficulty accessing your account, please




contact the school’s assistant principal. Class placement will be posted on Family Access in August for 1st-5th students.

WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURES If a move or other circumstance requires a withdrawal from school, a withdrawal form must be completed, all textbooks must be turned in, and a student must be in good standing with the library and cafeteria. Once all of the qualifications are met, a parent/legal guardian may withdraw a student from school.



APPENDIX-Federal Notices SECTION 504 NOTICE Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are acts which prohibit discrimination against persons with a disability in any program receiving federal assistance, among others. Both acts define a person with a disability as anyone who:

• has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities (major life activities include caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working);

• has a record of such impairment; • is regarded as having such an impairment or has had a record of such an

impairment.

In order to fulfill its obligations under Section 504 and the ADA, Williamson County Schools recognizes a responsibility to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and students. No discrimination against any person on the basis of a disability will knowingly be permitted in any of the programs or practices in the school system.

The school district has specific responsibilities under both acts, which include the responsibility to evaluate and determine if the child is eligible under Section 504/ADA, and to then afford access to appropriate educational accommodations.

If the parent or guardian disagrees with the determination made by the professional staff of the School District, he/she has the right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer. For further information, contact Jill Merritt, 504 Coordinator at 615-472-4000.

F.E.R.P.A. Pursuant to the terms of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), 20 U.S.C.§1232(g), Williamson County Schools designates the following personally identifiable information contained in a student’s educational record as “directory information”, and it will disclose the following student information without prior written consent: name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, weight and height of members of an athletic team, and most recent previous educational agency or institution attended. Parents must notify their child’s school in writing if they do not want his/her directory information released. Under provisions of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 and other federal law, directory information will be provided to recruiters from the armed services upon request. Parents must notify the school in writing if they do not want his/her directory information released to military recruiters.



HOMELESS EDUCATION You qualify for consideration under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act if any of the following apply: if you live in a shelter, motel, vehicle, campground, abandoned building or trailer, or other inadequate accommodations, or if you live with friends or relatives because of the inability to afford adequate housing. If any of these apply, you may be entitled to all services, rights and protection provided under this law. Your children have the right to attend a school no matter where you live or how long you have lived there, continue in the school last attended before becoming homeless (if that is your choice and it is feasible) and receive transportation to the school last attended prior to becoming homeless if requested. Students, if qualified, can enroll in a school without a permanent address, without school records or without proof of immunization. These will be obtained by school personnel. For further information, contact Juli Oyer, Asst. Superintendent of Elementary Schools at 615-472-4000.

RIGHTS OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES AND PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES Parents may access information about child advocacy groups and information on how to contact the state department of education for information on student rights and services from the following agencies: Tennessee Department of Education Legal Services Division, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Andrew Johnson Tower, 5th floor, Nashville, TN 37243-0380, 615-741-2851, Fax: 615-253-5567 or 615-532-9412. Williamson County Schools Student Support Services, 1320 West Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064, 615-472-4130, Fax: 615-595-4930.

CHILD ADVOCACY GROUPS CONTACT INFORMATION In addition to the state and local resources available to parents and children, there are many agencies and organizations that offer support, information, training, and help in advocating for persons with disabilities in Tennessee. A few of these organizations are listed below: The ARC of Williamson County, 129 W. Fowlkes Street, Suite 151, Franklin, TN 37064, 615-790-5815, Fax: (615) 790-5891 Support and Training for Exceptional Parents (STEP), 712 Professional Plaza, Greeneville, TN 37745, 615-463-2310, Web: http://www.tnstep.org Tennessee Disability Law and Advocacy Center (DLAC), 2416 21st Avenue South, Suite 100, Nashville, TN 37212, Phone: 615-298-1080, Toll free: 1-800-342-1660, email: [email protected]. Tennessee Voices for Children, 1315 8th Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37203, 615-269- 7751, Fax: 615-269-8914, TN Toll Free: 800-670-9882, [email protected]. These are but a few of the organizations available to help with information, training, and advocacy. For a more extensive list visit the Tennessee Disability Services-Disability

http://www.tnstep.org/





Pathfinder Database: http://kc.vanderbilt.edu/tennesseepathfinder/ServiceFinder/Default.aspx. This information is provided as a service to individuals seeking additional avenues for help and information. The Department of Education and Williamson County Schools do not intend this as an endorsement or recommendation for any individual organization or service represented in this list.

WILLIAMSON COUNTY SCHOOLS STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION Williamson County Schools in its employment of personnel and in its educational activities with students does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age or disability. Employees of Williamson County Schools are appointed as coordinators of the various activities ensuring compliance with federal laws and regulations including the U.S. Department of Education regulations implementing: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Vocational Education Programs Guidelines for Eliminating Discrimination and Denial of Services on the Basis of Race, Color, and National Origin, Sex and Handicap. U.S. Department of Justice regulations implementing: Title II of the American Disabilities Act of 1990. Employees include Title VI & ADA Coordinator Vickie Hall, Title IX Coordinator Dana Ausbrooks, IDEA Coordinator Maria Griego, and Title II Coordinator Laurette Carle. Contact them at: 1320 West Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064, 615-472-4000. Individuals who need assistance or have a complaint should contact the above listed individuals. Williamson County Schools provides equal access to youth groups such as Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.

http://kc.vanderbilt.edu/tennesseepathfinder/ServiceFinder/Default.aspx

http://kc.vanderbilt.edu/tennesseepathfinder/ServiceFinder/Default.aspx

JES Student Handbook 2021-2022 - Williamson County Schools

Documents

Transcript of JES Student Handbook 2021-2022 - Williamson County Schools