PARENT

GUIDEBOOK

BEDFORD COUNTY SCHOOLS

SCHOOL SYSTEM INFORMATION

INCLEMENT WEATHER, EARLY OR SPECIAL CLOSINGS &

ANNOUNCEMENTS

In the case of inclement weather situations, early closings,

delayed openings, or other special situations, local radio and

TV stations will be notified and a notice will be sent out via

School Messenger to your phone and email and posted at

www.bedfordk12tn.com.

Individual schools may also send out messages from time to

time regarding special events.

Please put our number (684-3284) in your caller i.d.

SCHOOL HOURS

Cascade Elementary 7:45-2:45

Cascade Middle 7:55-2:55

Cascade High 7:55-2:55

Community Elementary 7:45-2:45

Community Middle 7:50-2:50

Community High 8:00-3:00

Eakin Elementary 7:30-2:30

Eastside Elementary 7:30-2:30

Harris Middle 7:50-2:50

Learning Way Elementary 7:25-2:25

Liberty School 8:00-3:00

Shelbyville Central High 8:00-2:55

Southside Elementary 7:30-2:30

Thomas Magnet 7:40-2:40

FOOD SERVICE PRICES

Breakfast

All Students Eat Free

Teachers-$2.00

Visitors - $3.00

Lunch

All Students Eat Free

Teachers - $4.00

2nd Meal for Students - $4.00

Visitors - $5.00

SCHOOL AGE CARE PROGRAM (SACP)

Rachael Trott, Director

684-3284, ext. 2231

Cascade 389-0031, ext. 3012

Community 580-2592

Eakin 684-7852, ext. 3212

Eastside 684-7112, ext. 3312

Liberty 684-7809, ext. 3712

Southside 684-7545, ext. 3512

Thomas 684-6818, ext. 3612

Learning Way 580-2592

Central Office 684-3285, ext. 2213

2231

2232

For Emergencies 931-580-2592

Bedford County Board of Education

DAVID BROWN, 1st District Representative

BRIAN CREWS, 2nd District Representative

AMY MARTIN, 3rd District Representative

DIANE NEELEY, 4th District Representative

MICHAEL COOK, 5th District Representative

DR. ANDREA ANDERSON, 6th District Representative

CHAD GRAHAM, 7th District Representative

JOHN BOUTWELL, 8th District Representative

GLENN FORSEE, 9th District Representative

“TOGETHER WE LEARN”

http://www.bedfordk12tn.com/

Bedford County Learning Academy Cascade Elementary School (K-5)

Emily Wilson, Director Sherry Crawford, Principal

401 Elm Street 2998 Fairfield Pike

Shelbyville, TN 37160 Wartrace, TN 37183

Phone: 931-685-4347 Fax: 931-684-4348 Phone: 931-389-0031 Fax: 931-389-0032

Cascade Middle School (6-8) Cascade High School (9-12)

David Parker, Principal Josh Young, Principal

1165 Bell Buckle-Wartrace Rd. 1165 Bell Buckle-Wartrace Rd.

Wartrace, TN 37183 Wartrace, TN 37183

Phone: 931-389-9389 Fax: 931-389-6223 Phone: 931-389-9389 Fax: 931-389-6223

Community Elementary (K-5) Community Middle School (6-8)

Whitney Yoes, Principal Tony Garrette, Principal

3480 Highway 41A North 3470 Hwy 41A North

Unionville, TN 37180 Unionville, TN 37180

Phone: 931-685-1417 Fax: 931-294-2444 Phone: 931-685-1426 Fax: 931-294-5126

Community High School (9-12) Eakin Elementary School (K-5)

Robert Ralston, Principal Dulcie Davis, Principal

100 Community Crossings, P.O. Box 30 1100 Glenoaks Road

Unionville, TN 37180 Shelbyville, TN 37160

Phone: 931-685-1418 Fax: 931-294-2107 Phone: 931-684-7852 Fax: 931-684-0553

Eastside Elementary School (K-5) Harris Middle School (6-8)

Layne Talbott, Principal Neal Watson, Principal

421 Elliott Street 570 Eagle Boulevard

Shelbyville, TN 37160 Shelbyville, TN 37160

Phone: 931-684-7112 Fax: 931-684-7108 Phone: 931-684-5195 Fax: 931-685-9455

Learning Way Elementary (K-5) Liberty School (K-8)

Kathy Reed, Principal Cort Huffman, Principal

200 Learning Way Drive 500 Snell Road

Shelbyville, TN 37160 Shelbyville, TN 37160

Phone: 931-685-1426 Fax: 931-684-6165 Phone: 931-684-7809 Fax: 931-685-0627

Shelbyville Central High (9-12) Southside Elementary (K-5)

Tim Harwell, Principal Reita Vaughn, Principal

401 Eagle Boulevard 903 Cannon Boulevard

Shelbyville, TN 37160 Shelbyville, TN 37160

Phone: 931-684-5672 Fax: 931-684-9359 Phone: 931-684-7545 Fax: 931-685-0912

Technical Bldg: 100 J.G. Helton Drive

Phone: 931-684-1889

Thomas Magnet School (K-5)

Tracy Watson, Principal

515 Tate Avenue

Shelbyville, TN 37160

Phone: 931-684-6818 Fax: 931-684-7174 BEDFORD COUNTY SCHOOLS ARE

SACS ACCREDITED

BEDFORD COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

500 Madison Street

Shelbyville, TN 37160

931-684-3284 or 3285 + ext.

SUPERINTENDENT’S OFFICE FEDERAL PROGRAMS

Fax 684-1133 Fax 685-0420

Don Embry, Superintendent of Schools-ext.2221 Connie Boutwell, Supervisor- ext. 2225

Karen Scoggins, Assistant Superintendent –ext.2227 Marsha Sharp, Admin. Asst. – ext. 2214

Dawn Stewart, Executive Clerk – ext. 2220

SPECIAL EDUCATION

BOARD OF EDUCATION Fax 685-0420

Fax 684-1133 Julie Haynes, Supervisor-ext. 2250

Suzanne Alexander, Executive Secretary, ext. 2220 Susan McClenney, Secretary-ext. 2218

S. Trudrung, Compliance Liaison-ext.2251

HUMAN RESOURCE

Fax 684-3289

Andrea Miller-Davis, Manager, ext. 2224 CHILD NUTRITION

Jean Richardson, Associate, ext. 2211 Fax 680-4481

Emily Hodges, Associate, ext. 2254 Janet Clarkson, Supervisor-ext.2209

Marian Alexander, Assistant-ext. 2253

STUDENT SERVICES SCHOOL-AGE CARE

Fax 684-3289 Fax 684-3289

Barry Bennett, Supervisor-ext. 2210 Rachel Trott, Director-ext.2232

Felicia Moon, Assistant-ext. 2261 Tammy Folgers, Secy/Bookkeeper-ext.2231

Sara Dee Crabtree, Coordinator of School Health-ext.2260

Cynthia Cox, LCSW & Marie McLean, LBSW, Social Workers STUDENT PLACEMENT & SAFETY

Located at 100 J.G. Helton Drive-685-1911, ext.5 or 324 Dover Street

931-703-2701 or 205-2458 Phone 684-1500 Fax 684-3275

Kenny Parker, Supervisor

INSTRUCTION Tonya Riddle, Secretary

Fax 684-3289 Nan Tomerlin, Route Planner

Xavier Hamler, Elementary Instruction Supervisor-ext.2258 John Mason, Driver Trainer

Sarah Beth Spray, Secondary Instruction/CTE Supervisor-ext. 2252

Elizabeth Davis, Instruction Supervisor/504 Coordinator-ext. 2217

Kim Joyce, Instruction Secretary-ext.2215

PLANT OPERATIONS (707 Sevier St.)

Phone 684-6961 Fax (same as phone)

TECHNOLOGY Daniel Kleindienst, Director of Maintenance

Fax 685-0698 Ann Sandridge, Custodial Manager

Ben Barrett, Director of Technology-ext.2243 Sam Woolbright, Maintenance Supervisor

Christy Williams, Systems Support Specialist-ext.2240 Debbie Lawson, Secretary

Computer Techs-ext.3430 (100 J.G. Helton Drive) Kay Handy , Custodian/Tech-ext. 2202

Terise’ Rhodes, Student Mgt & State Reporting Supervisor-ext.2244

Laurie Brannon, Secretary-ext.2230 TRANSLATION

Julie Elliott, Grants & eLearning Supervisor-ext. 2246 Juan Chirigliano, 703-4849

(Policies and information referenced but not detailed herein can be accessed through the website and online

policy manual at www.bedfordk12tn.com. Procedures are linked to their corresponding policies.)

ANNUAL NOTIFICATIONS

COMPULSORY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE – POLICY 6.201

The State of Tennessee requires children between the ages of six (6) and seventeen (17) years of age to attend

school; public or non-public, on a regular basis. Under the Compulsory Attendance Law (TCA 49-6-3001), the

legal guardian is responsible for the child to attend school.

ATTENDANCE NOTIFICATION

It is the duty of the principal of every public, private or parochial school to report promptly to the director of

schools, or the director of schools’ designee, the names of all children who have withdrawn from school, or who

have been absent five (5) days without adequate excuse. This means an aggregate of five (5) days during the

school year and not necessarily five (5) consecutive days. Each successive accumulation of five (5) unexcused

absences by a student shall also be reported. If the student is absent from school for an aggregate of five (5)

days during the school year without adequate excuse, then the student is subject to referral to juvenile court.

We need your help with an important goal for Bedford County Schools this year. We want to ensure that every

student attends school every day.

Attending school regularly has a significant, positive impact on your child’s academic success – from

kindergarten through high school. Even as he or she grows older and more independent, you play a key role in

making sure your child gets to school safely and on time every day. For context, most students in Tennessee

miss six or less days each school year.

We realize some absences are unavoidable due to health problems or other circumstances. But, we also know

that when students miss too much school – regardless of the reason – it can cause them to fall behind

academically. Absences can add up quickly. Students are less likely to succeed if they miss 10% or more of

instructional days over the course of the school year (this means missing about two days of school per month or

about 18 days per year).

Research shows:

-Tennessee students who are chronically absent in kindergarten are 15 percentage points less likely to

reach proficiency in either 3rd grade math or ELA.

-Nationally, four out of five students who miss more than 10% of both kindergarten and first grade are

unable to read on grade-level by third grade.

-The problem continues as students get older. Tennessee students who are chronically absent in 9th

grade are 30 percentage points less likely to earn an on-time diploma (62% VS. 92%).

We don’t want your child to fall behind in school or get discouraged. Please ensure that your child attends

school every day and arrives on time. (Please refer to our Attendance Policy 6.200 under the policy section of

this document). Below, are a few practical tips to help support regular attendance.

We want your child to be successful in school. Let us know how we can best support you and your child so that

he or she shows up for school on time every day. If you have any questions or need more information, please

contact your child’s teacher, principal or school counselor.

Annual Notifications & Policy

http://www.bedfordk12tn.com/

ATTENDANCE POINTERS FOR PARENTS

-Make sure your children keep a regular bedtime and establish a morning routine.

-Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.

-Make sure your children go to school every day unless they are truly sick.

-Avoid scheduling vacations or doctor’s appointments when school is in session.

-Develop back up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, neighbor, or

another parent to take your child to school.

-Talk to teachers and counselors for advice if your children feel anxious about going to school or show other

signs of not wanting to go to school.

For more information, contact your child’s teacher or check out the parent resources available at

www.attendanceworks.org.

DRESS CODE HIGHLIGHTS

-Collared shirts in any color, including stripes are expected OR T-shirts which are school approved (school

affiliated, club or sport t-shirts as well as collegiate t-shirts).

-Clothing must not have any writing, pictures or images depicting alcohol, drugs, sexual

references/images/innuendo, or other messages contrary to the mission of education.

-Tuck-in rule has been removed.

-Belts are not required however pants must not sag and must be worn at the waist and not extend to below the

shoe.

-Cargo shorts are allowed.

-Logo restrictions have been removed.

-Flip flops are allowed.

-Chests and midriffs must be covered.

-Leggings must not be worn as pants or primary cover. They must be covered with acceptable length shorts,

tops, dresses and skirts.

(Please read entire policy under the policy section of this guidebook for details and guidelines).

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

Each year the Board of Education is required to give notice of the rights given parents and/or eligible students

by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This notice lists your rights and the procedures to

follow if you want to review and inspect your educational records.

Right to Inspect – Parents/legal guardians and eligible students (those students 18 years of age or over or those

students duly enrolled in a post-secondary school program) may review and inspect the educational records of

the child or an eligible student may inspect his/her records.

Request Forms – Request to View Educational Records forms are available at the principal’s office or the Central

Office. This request form should be completed and returned to the principal’s office or the Central Office.

Request Approved – Your request will be responded to within five (5) working days and the records will be made

available within a reasonable time not to exceed thirty (30) days. Records may be viewed between the hours of

9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on any workday.

Right to Prevent Disclosures – You have the right to seek to prevent disclosures of educational records with

certain limited exceptions. We will limit inspection of your (child’s) educational records to those instances when

your written consent has been given or persons having a legitimate educational interest require this

information.

Right to Request Amendment – You have the right to seek to have corrected any parts of your record to believe

to be inaccurate.

Right to Complain – You have the right to file a complaint with the FERPA, Department of Education – 400

Maryland Avenue S.W., Washington, D.C., 20202-4605 concerning this District’s failure to comply with FERPA.

FERPA NOTIFICATION-ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 6.601.2

http://www.attendanceworks.org/

FREE BREAKFAST AND LUNCH PROGRAM FOR ALL STUDENTS

We are pleased to announce that Bedford County Schools will continue the implementation of the Community

Eligibility Provision (CEP), an option available to select schools in Tennessee that participate in the National

School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs.

In a CEP school, ALL students receive a nutritious breakfast and lunch at no cost, regardless of family income.

Your child is eligible for free meals at any Bedford County school where he/she is enrolled.

We are requesting financial information be provided via a form to help ensure that your child continues to have

access to the same level of resources he/she currently has at school. It impacts funding that each school

receives from the federal and state government, affecting provisions such as technology, internet service,

supplemental instructional materials, additional teachers or aides and federal programs. Completion of this

form will ensure that your child is evaluated for fee waiver eligibility.

In keeping with current practices, all information provided is private and confidential as required by state and

federal statute. State and federal formulas use only aggregate information for funding calculations.

If you have a new student in our system, please complete the fee waiver form that your child brings home and

return it to your child’s school by September 14, 2018. Parents of returning students will complete the

verification online through the student data verification process in the Skyward parent portal.

YOUR ASSISTANCE IN MAINTAINING CURRENT FUNDING LEVELS IS GREATLY APPRECIATED!

Non-Discrimination Statement

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and

policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA

programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal

or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by the USDA.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille,

large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they

applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA

through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available

in languages other than English.

To file a program complain of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form (AD-

3027) found online at http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a

letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a

copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

1. Mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400

Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-5410;

2. Fax: (202) 690-7442; or

3. Email: program.intake@usda.gov

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

HOME SCHOOL

Any parent wishing to home school their child must meet State Regulations and register with the Supervisor of

Student Services, Barry Bennett (684-3284 or 3285, ext. 2210).

LIST OF APPROVED TEXTBOOKS (can be found at www.bedfordk12tn.com)

MCKINNEY-VENTO HOMELESS EDUCATION ASSISTANCE ACT

http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.htmlmailto:program.intake@usda.gov

Any pre-school aged or school aged children, who qualify as homeless under the McKinney-Vento Act definition,

have certain rights and protections when they attend public school. If your family or any student is homeless,

you may contact the school district’s liaison for homeless education, Barry Bennett at 684-3284 or 3285, ext.

2210, for help in enrolling your child in school, or for more information.

PARENTS RIGHT TO KNOW TEACHER QUALITY

In order to meet the requirements of Every Student Succeeds Act (Section 1112(e)) concerning parents’ right to

know, you may request information regarding your child’s teacher. You may contact Andrea Miller-Davis,

Human Resource Manager for Bedford County Department of Education at 931-684-3284 or 3285, ext. 2224.

PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT

PPRA affords parents and students who are 18 or emancipated minors (“eligible students”) certain rights

regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical

exams. These include the right to:

*Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following

protected areas (“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the

U.S. Department of Education.

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;

2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;

3. Sex, behavior or attitudes;

4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;

5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;

6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors or ministers;

7. Religious practices, affiliations or beliefs of the student or parents; or

8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

*Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of:

1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;

2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered

by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for

hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law;

and

3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for

marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

*Inspect, upon request and before administration or use

1. Protected information surveys of students;

2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or

other distribution purposes; and

3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

Parents/eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

Family Policy Compliance Officer

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20202-4605

SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

Special programs for children with disabilities are provided in accordance with IDEA. Child Find is an attempt to

locate and provide appropriate educational and related services to all children with disabilities – birth through

21. Speech therapy is offered as the primary related service for children aged 3-21 attending private and home

schools in Bedford County. Students must meet the eligibility standards of state and federal law. If you are the

parent of a child with a disability who is not receiving services, contact Julie Haynes at the Bedford County Board

of Education, 684-3284 or 3285, ext. 2218

TITLE I PART A PROGRAM

In order to meet the requirements of Every Student Succeeds Act [Section 1112(e)], at the beginning of each

school year, any LEA that accepts Title I, Part A funding will notify parents of students in Title I schools of their

rights to request information on the professional qualifications of their child’s teachers and paraprofessionals

providing instructional support. Schools will notify parents if a child is taught for four consecutive weeks by a

teacher who does not meet state certification. You may contact Andrea Miller-Davis, Human Resource Manager

at 931-684-3284 or 3285, ext. 2224.

TITLE VI

The Bedford County School System affirms that it will comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Title VI states:

No person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from

participation, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity

receiving Federal financial assistance.

Anyone who believes that the school system has discriminated against them or another individual may file a

complaint. The complaint should be sent to:

Barry Bennett, Title VI Coordinator

Bedford County School System

500 Madison Street

Shelbyville, TN 37160

TITLE VI/VII/IX, EQUAL OPPORTUNITY & NON-DISCRIMINATION

The Bedford County School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national

origin, age, handicap, or veteran status in the provision of educational opportunities and benefits.

The Bedford County School System does not discriminate on the basis of sex or handicap in the education

programs and activities, pursuant to the requirements of Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972,

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, respective. This

policy extends to all activities, services, programs, employment of the School System.

Inquiries should be directed to:

Barry Bennett – Title IX Xavier Hamler – Section 504 Julie Haynes – Americans w/ Disabilities Act

Bedford County School System

500 Madison Street

Shelbyville, TN 37160

931-684-3284

STUDENT RIGHTS AND SERVICES

1. Tennessee Department of Education

Answers to many questions and much helpful information may be obtained from the State Department

of Education by calling 1-888-212-3162 or visiting www.state.tn.us/eduation/speced/index.htm

Legal Services Division

Division of Special Education, Tennessee Department of Education

710 James Robertson Parkway

Andrew Johnson Tower, 5th Floor

Nashville, TN 37243-0380

Phone: 615-741-2851

Fax: 615-253-5567 or 615-532-9412

2. Child Advocacy Group Contact Information

http://www.state.tn.us/eduation/speced/index.htm

In addition to the state and local resources available to parents and children, there are many agencies

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 Tennessee

http://www.thearctn.org

44 Vantage Way, Suite 550

Nashville, TN 37228

Phone: 615-248-5878 Toll Free: 1-800-835-7077

Fax: 615-248-5879

Support and Training for Exceptional Parents (STEP)

http://www.tnstep.org

712 Professional Plaza

Greeneville, TN 37745

615-463-2310

Tennessee Protection and Advocacy (TP&A)

http://www.tpainc.org

416 21st Avenue South

Nashville, TN 37212

1-800-287-9636 or 615-298-1080

Tennessee Voices for Children

http://tnvoices.org/main/html

Middle Tennessee

1315 8th Avenue South

Nashville, TN 37203

1-800-670-9882 or 615-269-7751

POLICY NOTIFICATIONS ACCEPTABLE USE – POLICY 4.406

The Board supports the right of staff and students to have reasonable access to various information formats and

believes it incumbent upon staff and students to use this privilege in an appropriate and responsible manner.

The purpose of this policy and the corresponding user agreements is to assure that users recognize the

procedures which the school system imposes on their use of the Internet per stipulations of the Children’s

Online Protection Act 47 USC Section 231 (COPPA), the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA: and the

Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) as well as laws pertaining to stalking and harassment. A copy of this

document as well as both employee and student user agreements can be found on the Bedford County system

website, http://www.bedfordk12tn.com.

EMPLOYEES

Before an employee is allowed use of the district’s Internet or intranet access, the employee shall sign a written

agreement, developed by the superintendent/designee that sets out the terms and conditions of such use

(Administrative Procedure 4.406.2). Any employee who accesses the district’s computer system for any purpose

agrees to be bound by the terms of that agreement, even if no signed written agreement is on file.

http://www.thearctn.org/http://www.tnstep.org/http://www.tpainc.org/http://tnvoices.org/main/htmlhttp://www.bedfordk12tn.com/

The Superintendent of Schools, or a designee, shall develop, implement, review and reevaluate biennially

procedures for appropriate and inappropriate Internet use which shall address the following:

1. Development of the Network and Acceptable Use Agreement.

2. General rules and ethics of Internet access.

3. Guidelines regarding appropriate instruction and oversight of student Internet use.

4. Inappropriate and illegal activities, including but not limited to the following:

- Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures

- Using obscene language

- Harassing, insulting, defaming or attacking others

- Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks

- Hacking or attempting unauthorized access to any computer

- Violation of copyright laws

- Trespassing in another’s folders, work or files

- Intentional misuse of resources

- Using another’s password or other identifier (impersonation)

- Use of the network for commercial purposes

Professional development opportunities with a direct correlation to technology shall be made available

systemwide, and teachers and staff will be encouraged to attend.

STUDENTS

A written parental consent shall be required prior to the student being granted access to electronic media

involving district technological resources. The required permission/agreement form (Administrative Procedure

4.406.1), which shall specify acceptable uses, rules of on-line behavior, access privileges and penalties for

policy/procedural violations, must be signed by the parent/legal guardian of minor students (those under 18

years of age) and also by the student. This document shall be executed each year and shall be valid only in the

school year in which it was signed unless parent(s) provide written notice that consent is withdrawn. In order to

rescind the agreement, the student’s parent/guardian (or the student who is at least 18 years old) must provide

the superintendent of schools with a written request.

The superintendent of schools, or a designee, shall develop, implement, review and reevaluate biennially

procedures for appropriate and inappropriate Internet use by students. Procedures shall address the following:

1. General rules and ethics of Internet use.

2. Inappropriate or illegal activities, including, but not limited to:

- Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures

- Using obscene language

- Harassing, insulting, defaming or attacking others

- Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks

- Hacking or attempting unauthorized access

- Violation of copyright laws

- Trespassing in another’s folders, work or files

- Intentional misuse of resources

- Using another’s password or other identifier (impersonation)

- Use of the network for commercial purposes

- Buying or selling on the Internet

INTERNET SAFETY MEASURES

The safety of our students if of utmost importance. Educating students about the proper and safe use of the

Internet is a priority. An Internet Safety curriculum will be taught at each school. Rules and guidelines for safe

Internet use will be posted near all computers where students have Internet access. Teachers will review these

rules and guidelines with their students at the beginning of the school year. Parents will be informed of these

rules and guidelines by each school and through the district’s Parent Guidebook.

Internet safety measures shall be implemented that effectively address the following:

- Controlling access by students to inappropriate matter on the Internet and World Wide Web

- Safety and security of students when they are using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of

direct electronic communications

- Preventing unauthorized access, including “hacking” and other unlawful activities by students on-

line

- Unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal information regarding students

- Restricting students’ access to materials harmful to them

The superintendent of schools/designee shall establish a process to ensure the district’s education technology is

not used for purposes prohibited by law or for accessing sexually explicit materials. The process shall include,

but not be limited to:

- Utilizing technology that blocks or filters Internet access (for both students and adults) to material

that is obscene, child pornography or harmful to students

- Maintaining and securing a usage log

- Monitoring on-line activities of students

The Board shall provide reasonable public notice of, and at least one (1) public hearing or meeting to address

and communicate, its Internet safety measures.

Any violations of this Acceptable Use Policy may result in loss of access as well as other possible disciplinary

and/or legal actions. Based on the acceptable use guidelines stated in this document, the system administrators

will deem what is inappropriate and their decision is final.

NETWORK SECURITY

Only users with valid Bedford County Schools network accounts are authorized to use Bedford County School’s

network and computer equipment. Employees and students must only use their assigned network account.

Users are prohibited from giving anyone network passwords or network account information other than to

authorized personnel.

E-MAIL

All data including e-mail communications stores or transmitted on school system computers shall be monitored.

Employees/students have no expectation of privacy with regard to such data. E-mail correspondence may be a

public record under the public records law and may be subject to public inspection.

Because all computer hardware and software belong to the Board, users have no reasonable expectation of

privacy, including the use of email communications. The Bedford County Department of Education will archive

all non-spam emails sent and/or received on the system for a minimum of 12 months or in accordance with

Records Management for Municipal Governments. After the set time has elapsed, email communications may

be discarded unless notification of pending litigation or other good cause exists for retaining email records.

STUDENT TECHNOLOGY PROCEDURES – 4.406.1

Technology is an ever-changing part of all of our lives and an integral part of education. Expanding technologies

take students and staff beyond the confines of the classroom and provide tremendous opportunities for

enhancing, extending, and rethinking the learning process. Bedford County Schools (BCS) is committed to

preparing students to live responsibly in a digital world. The computing resources at BCS support educational,

instructional, researching, and administrative activities. As a user of these resources, students must behave in a

responsible, ethical, and legal manner. This document serves as the Student Technology Policies for governing

the usage of technology for all BCS students.

BCS students should respect the rights of other computer users and the integrity of technology resources along

with all pertinent license agreements. If an individual is found to be in violation of the stated technology

policies, BCS will take necessary disciplinary action, including the restriction and possible loss of network

privileges. A serious violation could result in more serious consequences, up to and including suspension from

BCS. Technology policies apply to all users of computing and networking resources (hardware or software)

owned or managed by BCS.

General Technology Polices

With access to computers and people all over the world comes the potential availability of material that may

not be considered to be of educational value in the context of the school setting or that may be harmful or

disruptive. Because information on networks is transitory and diverse, BCS cannot completely predict or control

what users may or may not locate. BCS believes that the educational value of limited access to the information,

interaction, and research capabilities that technology offers outweighs the possibility that users may obtain or

encounter material that is not consistent with the educational goals of BCS.

In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) by the Federal Communications Commission,

BCS operates and subscribes to filtering software to limit users’ Internet access to materials that are obscene,

pornographic, harmful to children, or otherwise inappropriate, or disruptive to the educational process,

notwithstanding that such software may in certain cases block access to other materials as well. At the same

time, BCS cannot guarantee that filtering software will in all instances successfully block access to materials

deemed harmful, indecent, offensive, pornographic, or otherwise inappropriate. The use of filtering software

does not negate or otherwise affect the obligations of users to abide by the terms of this policy and to refrain

from accessing inappropriate materials.

No technology is guaranteed to be error-free or totally dependable, nor is it safe when used irresponsibly.

Among other matters, BCS is not liable or responsible for

Any information that may be lost, damaged, or unavailable due to technical, or other difficulties

The accuracy or suitability of any information that is retrieved through technology

Breaches of confidentiality

Defamatory materials

Consequences that may come from failure to follow BCS policy and procedures governing the use of

technology

Students are to act ethically, respectfully, academically honestly, and supportively of student learning. Each

student has the responsibility to respect others in the school community and on the Internet. Students are

expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette.

Cyberbullying will not be tolerated and will result in severe disciplinary action and loss of privileges.

No user of technological resources, including a person sending or receiving electronic communications, may

engage in creating, intentionally viewing, accessing, downloading, storing, printing, or transmitting images,

graphics (including still or moving pictures), sound files, text files, documents, messages, or other material that

is obscene, defamatory, profane, pornographic, harassing, abusive, or considered to be harmful to minors.

The following actions are not permitted while using the school network, technology equipment, BCS managed

software/accounts, or Internet access:

• Send, display, or download offensive communication or media.

• Use obscene language.

• Harass, insult, attack, or defame others.

• Intentionally damage school technology equipment or network infrastructure.

• Attempt to enter network areas not related to specific classroom.

• Violate copyright laws.

• Use other users’ passwords or identifiers without authorization.

• Trespass in other users’ files, folders, or work.

• Intentionally misuse resources.

• Install or download software unless directed to do so by a teacher.

• Illegally duplicate software, music, or video media.

• Attempt to bypass system protection including the creation or use of proxy servers or websites.

• Use the network for commercial use.

• Reveal personal address or phone numbers nor those of fellow students or school personnel.

• Intentionally introduce a virus or malware to technology equipment or network.

• Access and use social networking or media for non-educational purposes.

• Perform any action which violates existing Board Policy or Public Law.

Stream audio or video for anything other than educational use.

Send electronic communications fraudulently (i.e., by misrepresenting the identity of the sender).

Engage in hacking of any kind, including, but not limited to, the illegal or unauthorized access.

Microsoft 365 Accounts

BCS will provide Microsoft 365 accounts to students in specific grade levels. These accounts provide students

access to Microsoft’s online suite of Office applications, online storage, emails (for high school students), and

many other products. These accounts will be utilized to support educational and administrative activities. The

use of these services must be consistent with BCS’s educational goals and comply with local, state, and federal

laws and BCS policies.

Student users are advised that electronic data and communications using the BCS Microsoft 365 account and/or

email address may be reviewed and/or accessed. Users should not expect that email or file storage on BCS

accounts will be private. BCS reserves the right to log, monitor, and examine digital communications and

content. Users must recognize that there is no assurance of confidentiality with respect to access to

transmissions and files by persons outside or persons inside BCS.

Email users have a responsibility to learn and comply with BCS’s policies for both system and personal devices.

The following actions are not permitted

Share user credentials (username/password) to another student.

Intentional and unauthorized access to other people’s email or MS 365 account.

Sending “spam,” chain letters, or any other type of unauthorized widespread distribution of unsolicited

mail.

Use of email for commercial activities or personal gain (except as specifically authorized by BCS policy

and procedures).

Use of email for partisan political or lobbying activities.

Use of email for personal social media accounts.

Sending of messages that constitute violations to BCS’s policies.

Creation and use of a false or alias email address in order to impersonate another or send fraudulent

communications.

Use of email to transmit materials in a manner which violates copyright laws.

Post or email personal contact information about themselves or other people unless it is in conjunction

with a specific teacher-approved assignment or approved college/career communication.

Solicit or distribute information with the intent to incite violence, cause personal harm, damage a

person’s character, or to harass another individual.

Respond to messages that are suggestive, obscene, belligerent, or threatening or make a student feel

uncomfortable. If a student receives such a message, he or she should provide a copy of the message to

his or her parent or guardian immediately. If the message requires school action (e.g. bullying), the

student’s parent should provide a copy to the principal.

BCS Students should be careful not to open unexpected attachments from unknown or known senders nor

follow web links within an email message unless the user is certain that the link is legitimate. Following a link in

an email message executes code that can also install malicious programs on the workstation.

BCS Student Microsoft 365 passwords are managed by the BCS Technology Department. If a student is

concerned that their password has been compromised, they must notify a teacher or administrator

immediately. Compromised passwords will be changed upon request.

BCS attempts to provide secure, private, and reliable email and Microsoft 365 services by following sound

information technology practices. However, BCS cannot guarantee the security, privacy, or reliability of said

services. All users, therefore, should exercise extreme caution in using BCS email to communicate confidential

or sensitive matters. Also BCS student email accounts are part of Microsoft’s online 365 platform and utilizes

Microsoft’s email filtering system for protection. However good email practices are the best protection.

Email users must promptly disclose to an administrator, teacher, or other school employee any message they

receive that is inappropriate or makes them feel uncomfortable.

Student Personal Wireless Access

The Bedford County Schools (BCS) provisionally offers a student wireless network for educational purposes only.

It will provide the same filtered Internet service that school computers currently use. The student wireless

network is for Bedford County Schools’ students. This network offering is a privilege which the system grants to

students willing to assume the responsibility of abiding by the guidelines set forth in this document. This access

is a privilege, not a right.

When attached to the BCS student network, personal technology devices brought on school property and

connected to the school system’s network will be considered as school property during this time and subject to

search by teacher, administrator, or technology staff at any time. BCS does not guarantee the privacy or

security of any item stored on or transmitted by any personal technology device. The BCS Technology

Department and BCS administrators reserve the right to review Internet usage and access data files, email, and

other communications utilizing the BCS Student wireless network. BCS takes no responsibility for any issues

that result from access on the BCS Student network.

Items that are considered personal technology devices (PTD) include but not limited to:

Laptops

Netbooks / Chromebooks

iPad / iPods

Smartphones

Tablets

Kindles / Nook / or other similar device

Items that are not allowed on any BOE wireless network:

Video streaming devices such as an AppleTV, Roku, or Chromecast

Wireless-connected printers

Guidelines:

Administration and Technology Staff have the right to refuse to allow personal technology devices on

the network or revoke network access.

Personal technology devices (PTD) may only be used in the classroom with the express approval of the

teacher. Teachers have the right to refuse to allow PTDs. Personal technology device use may in no

way disrupt or distract from the learning environment.

BCS assumes no responsibility or financial liability for any damage the student may incur, including but

not limited to theft, physical damage, and loss of data or software malfunctions of personal technology

device.

PTDs must come to school fully charged and may not be connected to power outlets on school

property.

The Student Network cannot be used for games, media streaming, social networking, video

conferencing or other forms of entertainment except for educational purposes.

PTDs are not allowed to access the Bedford County Schools regular network in any way.

Students are not allowed to use peer-to-peer software, file sharing programs, telnet or messenger

programs as well as other resource intensive applications.

PTDs shall not impair the security of the student wireless network. This expectation includes but is not

limited to maintenance of up-to-date anti-virus, anti-malware, and anti-spyware protection on all

devices that are connected to the network. Devices without up-to-date security programs may be

denied access to the network.

Student may not create unauthorized wireless networks to access the BCS Student network. This

includes establishing wireless access points, wireless routers, and open networks on personal devices.

Student is responsible for setting up and maintaining their devices. The district will not provide

technology support for these devices.

Teachers will not store student devices at any time nor will any school staff member repair or work on a

personal device.

Students should not intentionally interfere with the performance of the wireless network and/or the

district’s overall network.

The BCS Student wireless network will not provide print services or district instructional software that is

not web-based outside the network.

Parents/Guardians can be held accountable for any damage to any network caused by student personal

device or student actions.

Use of personal device cannot impact the classroom environment or learning experience.

Connectivity may be limited or denied during peak usage times such as online testing windows.

Teacher Expectations:

Teachers can establish their own classroom student device use policies.

Teachers can request that the student close the screen while the teacher is talking or anytime the

teacher deems necessary.

If a teacher allows student device usage, the teacher must monitor the student access.

Teachers can search devices and report any inappropriate use to administrators.

Disclaimer: The district's system is provided on an "as is, as available" basis. The district does not make any

warranties, whether expressed or implied, including, without limitation, those of fitness for a particular purpose

with respect to any services provided by the system and any information or software contained therein. The

district uses a variety of vendor-supplied hardware and software. Therefore, the district does not warrant that

the functions or services performed by, or that the information or software contained on the system will meet

the user's requirements. Neither does the district warrant that the system will be uninterrupted or error-free,

nor that defects will be corrected.

ATTENDANCE – POLICY 6.200

Attendance is a key factor in student achievement and therefore, students are expected to be present each day

school is in session. The Superintendent of Schools/designee shall develop appropriate administrative

procedures to implement this policy.

The Supervisor of Student Services shall oversee the entire attendance program which shall include:1

1. All accounting and reporting procedures and their dissemination;

2. Alternative program options for students who severely fail to meet minimum attendance requirements;

3. Ensuring that all school age children attend school;

4. Providing documentation of enrollment status upon request for students applying for new or

reinstatement of driver’s permit or license; and

5. Notifying the Department of Safety whenever a student with a driver’s permit or license withdraws

from school.2

Student attendance records shall be given the same level of confidentiality as other student records. Only

authorized school officials with legitimate educational purposes may have access to student information

without the consent of the student or parent/guardian.3

Absences shall be classified as either excused or unexcused as determined by the principal/designee;

Excused absences shall include:4

1. Personal illness/injury;

2. Illness of immediate family member;

3. Death in the family;

4. Extreme weather conditions;

5. Religious observances; 5

6. College visits;

7. Pregnancy;

8. School sponsored or school endorsed activities6

9. Summons, subpoena, or court order; or

10. Circumstances which in the judgment of the principal create emergencies over which the student has

no control.

The principal shall be responsible for ensuring that:7

1. Attendance is checked and reported daily for each class;

2. Daily absentee sheets contain sign in/sign out sheets and indicate students present or absent for the

majority of the day;

3. All student absences are verified;

4. Written excuses are submitted for absences and tardiness; and

5. System-wide procedures for accounting and reporting are followed.

An absence will be considered excused if the student brings a doctor’s note or a note from a parent. Students

who are absent are unexcused until such time as they bring in an appropriate note excusing the absence. This

note must include the reason for the absence, date(s) of absence, and signature of appropriate person.

Student participating in school-sponsored activities whether on or off-campus shall not be counted absent. In

order to qualify as “school-sponsored”, the activity must be school-planned, school-directed, and teacher

supervised.6

TRUANCY

General

Annually, the Superintendent of Schools/designee will provide written notice to parent(s)/guardian(s) that

attendance at school is required. Students shall be present at least fifty percent (50%) of the scheduled school

day in order to be counted present. Students may attend part-time days, alternating days, or for a specific

amount of time as indicated in their Individualized Education Plan or 504 Plan and shall be considered present

for school attendance purposes.8

If a student is required to participate in a remedial instruction program outside of the regular school day where

there is no cost to the parent(s) and the school system provides transportation, unexcused absences from these

programs shall be reported in the same manner.9

Students who are absent five (5) days without adequate excuse shall be reported to the superintendent of

schools/designee who will, in turn, provide written notice to the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student’s absence.

If a parent does not provide documentation within adequate time excusing those absences, or requests an

attendance hearing, then the Superintendent of Schools shall implement the progressive truancy intervention

plan described below prior to referral to juvenile court.

Progressive Truancy Intervention Plan10

Prior to referral to juvenile court, the following progressive truancy intervention plan will be implemented.

Tier I

Tier I of the progressive truancy intervention plan shall include the following:

1. A conference with the student and the student’s parent/guardian;

2. An attendance contract, based on the conference, signed by the student, the parent/guardian, and an

attendance supervisor or designee. The contract shall include:

a. A specific description of the school’s attendance expectations for the student;

b. The period for which the contract is effective; and

c. Penalties for additional absences and alleged school offenses, including additional disciplinary

action and potential referral to juvenile court.

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.

MILITARY SERVICE OF PARENT/GUARDIAN

School principals shall provide students with a one-day excused absence prior to the deployment of and a one-

day excused absence upon the return of a parent or custodian serving active military service.

Principals shall also allow up to a ten (10) excused cumulative absences per year for students to visit a parent or

guardian during a deployment cycle. The student shall provide documentation to the school as proof of his/her

parent’s/guardian’s deployment. Students shall be permitted to make up school work missed during these

absences.11

MAKE-UP WORK

All schools will issue excused and unexcused absences in accordance with board policy. An excused absence

permits the student to make up school work, within five (5) days of returning to school. An unexcused absence

denies a student the privilege of completing missed assignments. It is the responsibility of the student to check

with all of his/her teachers to obtain missed assignments.

STATE–MANDATED ASSESSMENT

Students who are absent the day of the scheduled End of Course Exams must present a signed doctor’s excuse

or must have been given an excused release by the principal prior to testing to receive an excused absence.

Students who have excused absences will be allowed to take a make-up exam. Excused students will receive an

incomplete in the course until they have taken the End of Course Exam.

Students who have an unexcused absence shall receive a failing grade on the course exam which shall be

averaged into their final grade.

CREDIT /PROMOTION DENIAL

Credit/promotion denial determinations may include student attendance, however student attendance may not

be the sole criterion. 12 However, if attendance is a factor, prior to the credit/promotion denial, the following

shall occur:

1. Parents and students shall be advised if a student is in danger of credit/promotion denial due to excessive absenteeism.

2. Procedures in due process are available to the student when credit or promotion is denied. DRIVER’S LICENSE REVOCATION2

More than ten (10) consecutive or fifteen (15) reported unexcused absences by a student during any semester

renders a student ineligible to retain a driver’s permit or license, or to obtain such if of age.

In order to qualify for reclaiming a driver’s permit or license, the student must make a passing grade in at least

three (3) full unit subjects or their equivalency at the conclusion of a subsequent grading period.

ATTENDANCE HEARING13

Students with excessive (more than 5) unexcused absences or those in danger of credit/promotion denial shall

have the opportunity to appeal to an attendance hearing committee appointed by the principal. If the student

chooses to appeal, the student or his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be provided written or actual notice of the

appeal hearing and shall be given the opportunity to address the committee. The committee will conduct a

hearing to determine if any extenuating circumstances exist or to determine if the student has met attendance

requirements that will allow him/her to pass the course or be promoted. Upon notification of the attendance

committee decision, the principal shall send written notification to the superintendent of schools/designee and

the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student of any action taken regarding the excessive unexcused absences. The

notification shall advise parents/guardian(s) of their right to appeal such action within two (2) school days to the

superintendent of schools/designee.

The appeal shall be heard no later than ten (10) school days after the request for appeal is received.

Within five (5) school days of the superintendent of schools/designee rending a decision, the student’s

parent(s)/guardian(s) may request by the Board, and the Board shall review the record. Following the review,

the Board may affirm or overturn the decision of the Superintendent of Schools/designee. The action of the

Board shall be final.

The Superintendent of Schools/designee shall ensure that this policy is posted in each school building and

disseminated to all students, parents, teachers and administrative staff.

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY-POLICY 6.311

Students shall help maintain the school environment, preserve school property and exercise care while using

school facilities.

All district employees shall report all damage or loss of school property to the principal or designee immediately

after such damage or loss is discovered. The principal or designee shall make a full and complete investigation

of an instance of damage or loss of school property. The investigation shall be carried out in cooperation with

law enforcement officials when appropriate.

School property is defined as buildings, buses, books, equipment, records, instructional materials or any other

item under the jurisdiction of the Board.

When the person causing damage or loss has been identified and the costs of the repair or replacement have

been determined, the superintendent shall take steps to recover these costs. This may include recommending

the filing of a civil complaint in court to recover damages. If the responsible person is a minor, recovery will be

sought from the minor’s parent or guardian.

In addition, the district may withhold the grades, diploma, and/or transcript of the student responsible for

vandalism or theft or otherwise incurring any debt to a school until the student or the student’s parent/guardian

has paid for the damages. When the minor and parent are unable to pay for the damages, the district shall

provide a program of voluntary work for the minor. Upon completion of the work, the student’s grades,

diploma, and/or transcripts shall be released.

CELL PHONES & PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES – POLICY 6.312

Personal communication and electronic devices such as cell phones; iPods; cameras; laptops, tablets, notebooks,

eReaders; DVD, CD, MP3 players, etc. may be used by students for reasonable purposes only during non-

academic periods, such as before and between classes or in study hall, lunchtime, etc. Students shall turn off

electronic devices upon arrival in the academic classroom.

Personal communication and electronic devices are not to be used during academic instructional periods, unless

they are approved by the teacher to be used as part of the classroom technology to further academic

instruction. Teachers are encouraged to integrate the devices into their course work.

If a student is allowed to use his/her personal communication device as part of the classroom technology, it is to

be used only to further academic instruction as directed by the teacher and not for any personal

communication.

Students are allowed to use their personal communication devices for reasonable communication purposes in or

out of the building after dismissal. For after school activities, the use of such devices shall be at the discretion of

the activity sponsor.

The taking of photos or the recording of videos whether by cell phone or any other personal communication

device in places where privacy is a reasonable expectation is strictly prohibited.

Any student who disseminates in any manner an unauthorized or misrepresented photograph, video, or

recording for the purpose of embarrassing, demeaning, or discrediting the reputation of any student or staff, or

results in any action or activity disruptive to the educational process shall be subject to disciplinary action up to

and including suspension and/or expulsion at the discretion of the principal. An incident of this nature could

result in sexual harassment or other violations and loss of personal communication device for the remainder of

the year.

If students are found using a cell phone improperly or without consent or if a cell phone is seen or heard ringing

during school hours, the cell phone will be confiscated and turned over to the administration. Any unauthorized

use of a device will result in confiscation until such time as it may be released to the student’s parent or

guardian according to the following consequences.

Consequences

(1st Offense) Device will be confiscated to be returned to the student at the end of the next school day or the

parent/guardian may pick-up at the end of the day.

(2nd Offense) The device will be confiscated for 5 calendar days. The parent/guardian may pick up the device at

the end of the 5 days.

(3rd Offense and thereafter). The device will be confiscated for 30 calendar days. The parent/guardian may pick-

up the device at the end of the 30 days.

If any infraction of this policy is serious enough to violate any Board of Education policy and procedures

governing the use of communication devices, more serious consequences could result.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL EDUCATION AND TESTING – POLICY 6.3071

PURPOSE

The Bedford County Board of Education is concerned with the physical well-being of all its students. While the

misuse of drugs and alcohol is a potential problem for all students, unique pressures and risks may exist for

students in certain groups. Therefore, the Bedford County Board of Education will not tolerate the use of drugs

and alcohol by any members of varsity, junior varsity, freshmen or middle school teams involved in

interscholastic competition in sports including members of cheerleading squads associated with these teams.

This policy shall also apply to any secondary students voluntarily participating in academic or service clubs,

student councils, band and choral groups, and any other voluntary student activity.

The Bedford County Board of Education has adopted a zero tolerance policy for all students for use, sale,

possession, or distribution of drugs on campus in its “Student Code of Discipline and Behavior”. Any such

occurrence on campus involving any student shall fall under the zero tolerance policy. For the purposes of this

policy, “on campus” shall also include attendance at school-related activities.

It should also be understood that the Drug and Alcohol Education and Testing policy does not constitute the sole

criteria for participation in any of these teams, groups, or organizations at Bedford County Schools, nor does it

contain the only reasons for dismissal from these activities.

All TSSAA, Bedford County Board of Education, individual schools, and individual team, club or organization

requirements, rules, expectations, and policies remain in effect.

This policy is not intended to be disciplinary or punitive in nature. The sanctions of this policy relate solely to

limiting the opportunity of any student found to be in violation of this policy to participate in any student

organization.

There will be no academic sanction for violation of this policy.

The primary purposes of the drug and alcohol education and testing policy for Bedford County School System’s

students are:

1. To employ education, testing, and counseling to deter drug use by Bedford County Schools’ student

population and, where these interventions are unsuccessful, to terminate participation in student

organizations.

2. To educate students on the physiological and psychological dangers in misuse of drugs and alcohol.

3. To protect students from the health-related risks inherent in the misuse of drugs and alcohol and

from potential injury to themselves and to those with whom they participate or compete with

because of such misuse.

4. To provide additional incentives for all students to refrain from the misuse or abuse of alcohol and

drugs and to remove the stigma of substance abuse from those who do not misuse or abuse them.

5. To provide a testing program to identify students who are improperly using drugs and, through

education and counseling, assist them before they cause injury to themselves or someone else or

become physiologically or psychologically dependent.

6. To reassure students, parents, and the community that the health and academic progress of each

student is the primary goal of the Bedford County Board of Education.

7. To emphasize to the entire school community that the misuse of alcohol and drugs is not condoned

by the Bedford County Board of Education.

This policy shall be included in student handbooks and a parental consent form distributed to all

parents/guardians of students subject to testing, if student is a minor. A consent form signed annually by

student and parent/guardian shall be maintained in the student’s record.

TESTING

All testing will be done by a certified laboratory. All equipment, materials, and record-keeping systems will be

furnished by the lab. Procedures will assure:

1. Confidentiality of individual records

2. Reliability of testing samples

3. Secure chain of possession of samples and results

4. Random selection for follow-up testing

The testing program will be designed to detect the following classes of drugs:

1. Amphetamines/Methamphetamines

2. Cannabinoids (Marijuana)

3. Cocaine Metabolites

4. Opiates

5. Performance Enhancing Drugs*

All eligible students at each participating school will be subject to testing.

The testing program will be under the supervision of the Supervisor of Student Services.

Collection of Samples:

1. Urine samples will be collected by a certified agency with the organizational assistance of the school

administration, coaches, directors and sponsors. Two adult observers will be present, with at least one

female present for female students.

2. Samples will be immediately sealed and initialed by the student-athlete and the collection agency.

Sealed samples will be logged and shipped directly to the testing facility by the collection agency.

Test Results

1. Test results will be sent directly to the Superintendent.

2. Upon receipt of a positive test result:

a. The superintendent will inform the principal and applicable staff member.

b. The principal and staff member will inform the student and, if authorized, the

parent(s)/guardian(s) of the positive test result and the resulting suspension from the

sport or activity.

c. No individual test results shall be released or discussed by any school official with anyone

other than the student involved and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) if authorized. No

individual test information shall be released to or discussed with the media. Overall

testing program results may be released to the school board and the media as long as

individual test results are not compromised.

*Due to the cost prohibitive nature of testing for performance enhancing drugs (PEDs), only a limited number of

random PED screens will be performed. Studies indicate that educating staff members to recognize the signs of

PED and informing students about the health risks associated with abuse of PEDs is thought to be the most

effective means to deter PED use and will be included in administrative procedures.

DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS – POLICY 6.307

In order to protect the rights of students, to safeguard the learning environment, and to contribute to a “Drug

Free” community, the Board’s plan for dealing with alcohol and drugs shall include the following:

1. Appropriate ways for handling alcohol/drug-related medical emergencies;

2. Guidelines for reporting alcohol/drug incidents and illegal activities;

3. Guidelines for referral of students who may have an alcohol/drug problem and/or are considered “high

risk” to agencies and other sources of appropriate help;

4. Effective working relationships with appropriate community agencies, such as alcohol/drug service

providers, law enforcement agencies and judicial officials.

Through the use of state guidelines the superintendent shall be responsible for:

1. Developing and implementing an appropriate curriculum on alcohol and drug education for students;

2. Providing adequate information and training for all staff personnel as appropriate to their

responsibilities;

3. Implementing the relevant portions of the Drug-Free Youth Act;

4. Developing administrative rules and guidelines for the school system to effectively respond to alcohol

and drug situations that may occur at school or school-sponsored events; and

5. Providing notification to parents and students that compliance with this policy is mandatory.

Students will not consume, possess, use, sell, distribute or be under the influence of illegal drugs or alcoholic

beverages in school buildings or on school grounds at any time, in school vehicles or buses, or at any school-

sponsored activity, function or event whether on or off school grounds. This includes but is not limited to abuse

of inhalants and prescription drugs.

Disciplinary sanctions will be imposed on students who violate standards of conduct required by this policy.

Such sanctions will be consistent with local, state and federal laws, up to and including suspension/expulsion as

well as referral for prosecution. Completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program may also be

recommended.

Information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation programs will be made available through the

school office.

For the purpose of this policy, intentional misuse of prescription drugs shall be considered illegal drug use. Use

of recommended dosage of a drug authorized by the student’s personal medical prescription from his/her

registered physician shall not be considered a violation of this policy.

FAMILY AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IN EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS – POLICY 4.502

The Bedford County Board of Education supports the concept that parent involvement in schools is essential if

the school district and the parent are to work together to improve the quality of education for all students.

The Board encourages parents, individually and in groups, to act as advisors and resource people both at the

local school level and district-wide level in the following ways:

1. Serve as a resource of specific talents to compliment and extend the instructional services of the

classroom teacher;

2. Express ideas and concerns by responding to surveys and to other information gathering devices;

3. Participate in parent-teacher groups, site-based decision making teams, and booster clubs;

4. Serve, when appropriate, on citizens’ advisory committees, and district-wide groups.

The school district shall be governed by the statutory definition of parent involvement as cited in the

Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), and shall carry out programs, activities and procedures in

accordance with this definition.

The Board shall implement the following as required by federal and state legislation:

· The school district will put into operation activities and procedures for the involvement of parents in all of its

schools. Those programs, activities and procedures will be planned and operated with meaningful consultation

with parents.

·The school district will coordinate and integrate parent involvement programs and activities under Title I, Part A

with other parent involvement activities under other programs such as Head Start, Even Start, Parents as

Teachers, Home Instruction Program for Preschool Youngsters, State-run Preschool, and Title III language

instructional programs.

·The school district shall incorporate activities and strategies that support this district wide family and

community engagement policy in its District Improvement Plan, Bedford County Schools (BCS) ePlan

http://eplan.tn.gov .

1. The BCS ePlan shall include procedures by which parents may learn about the course of study for

their children and have access to all learning materials.

2. The BCS ePlan shall include strategies for parent participation in the district’s schools which are

designed to improve parent and teacher cooperation in such areas as homework, attendance and

student behavior.

3. The BCS ePlan shall identify opportunities for parents to participate in support of classroom

instruction in the school. Such opportunities include, but are not limited to organizing fundraising

activities, volunteering as a field trip chaperone, assisting in the library, computer lab, or on the

playground, offering after-school clubs and recycling clothes.

·The school district shall submit any parent comments with the plan when the school district submits the plan to

the State Department of Education, if the school district’s ePlan is not satisfactory to the parents.

·The school district and its schools to the extent practicable shall provide full opportunities for the participation

of parents with limited English proficiency, parents with disabilities, and parents of migratory children, including

providing information and school reports in an understandable and uniform format and including alternative

formats upon request, and, to the extent practicable, in a language parents understand.

The school district shall appoint a Family and Community Advisory Council that will annually assess, through

consultation with parents, the effectiveness of the Family and Community Engagement Policy and determine

what action needs to be taken, if any, to increase parental and community participation.

The school district shall ensure Title I schools are in compliance with Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

http://eplan.tn.gov/

The Superintendent is authorized to implement any procedures necessary to accomplish the goals of this policy.

SUPPORT FOR PROGRAM

If the Title I allocation is $500,000, not less than one percent (1%) nor more than ten percent (10%) of that

allocation shall be reserved for the purpose of promoting parental involvement and shall distribute not less than

ninety percent (90%) to Title I schools. Parents of students participating in the Title I programs shall be

consulted on the use of these funds.

SCHOOL POLICY

Each school shall submit to the Superintendent and Board, for review and comment, its Title I school parent

involvement policy, which must meet all legal requirements, including a school-parent compact developed in

keeping, with legal requirements. This policy shall be developed jointly, with, and distributed by the school to,

parents of participating students. A copy of these documents shall be retained in the district office.

This policy shall be included in the Student Handbook which is distributed to parents/students annually.

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT – POLICY 4.5021

Families and community members should be engaged in the education of students based on the following

standards:

- Families are welcomed in the school community;

- Families and school staff should engage in regular and meaningful communication about student

learning;

- Families and school staff work together to support student learning and development;

- Families are informed and encouraged to be advocates for students;

- Families are full partners in the decisions that affect children and families; and

- Community, civic, and business resources are made available to strengthen school programs, family

practices, and student learning.

Schools shall establish and develop programs and practices that enhance family engagement and address the

specific needs of students and families. Decisions affecting students, schools, and established school procedures

shall always be made within the parameters of legal and Board of Education policies. The programs and

practices will be comprehensive and coordinated and will include the following goals:

1. Assist families in developing skills and techniques to support their children’s learning.

2. Promote clear, two-way communication between school and family about school issues, instructional

programs, and children’s progress.

3. Identify and reduce barriers to family engagement, including such barriers as those of economic

concerns, disabilities, limited English proficiency, limited literacy, or issues related to cultural diversity.

4. Inform, involve, and train family members, where appropriate, in voluntary instructional and support

roles at school.

5. Provide information about community and support services for children and families.

6. Include families in decision-making affecting the schools and programs when consistent with law and

board policy.

7. Provide professional development for teachers and staff on ways to work effectively with parents,

families, and volunteers.

8. Provide access to the family engagement policy for each family and post the policy in each school.

HEAD LICE – ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 6.4031.1

1. Primary and Intermediate Schools will not do scheduled school wide head checks during the school

year. If a teacher or staff member detects head lice infestation of a student, he/she will be

confidentially referred to the office to be checked by the nurse or trained personnel.

2. Upon reasonable confirmation of live lice, the student’s parent and/or guardian shall be notified. The

student shall not be isolated. The student will not go home until the end of the school day.

3. Bus privileges will not be denied. The child will not be isolated or singled out on the bus.

4. The parent and/or guardian shall be given a copy of administrative procedures on head lice and

instructed on proper treatment of infestation.

5. Treatment includes use of an effective preparation for head lice. This may be obtained by referral to

the Health Department, a licensed health care provider, OR the use of an over-the-counter treatment.

6. The student may return to school the next day with verification of treatment such as a prescription

label or receipt for over-the-counter treatment. They must also be inspected and cleared by a Bedford

County School nurse or a trained representative. If the student has live lice, they will be required to re-

treat with appropriate treatment as instructed by school nurse. ALL LIVE LICE must be removed.

7. The student re-admitted after treatment for head lice will be rechecked after one week to rule out re-

infestation/treatment failure. In case of re-infestation, the same treatment procedure must be

followed.

8. The School Social Workers will be notified upon the second infestation to educate the parents and

reduce the amount of time absent from school.

9. Chronic or continual head lice infestation, and/or failure to follow instructions for re-admittance to

school may be reported to the Director of Health Services, Department of Human Services, and/or

juvenile authorities.

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS – POLICY 4.400

Upon request, parents/guardians shall have the ability to inspect the following items: instructional materials;

teaching materials; teaching aids; handouts; and tests that are developed by and graded by their child’s teacher.

The Superintendent of Schools shall develop procedures for the inspection of materials and distribute these

procedures to each principal.

TEXTBOOKS AND SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS

The Board of Education recognizes the student’s right of access to a variety of instructional materials and the

right of the professional staff to make selections of instructional materials, provided the following criteria are

observed:

1. All textbooks and other media shall support the school system’s instructional goals and objectives.

2. Instructional materials shall be chosen for interest value, relation to the curriculum, suitability for grade

level and informative context. These materials shall provide for continuity from one grade to the next

and for uniformity when possible within a grade level through the school system. Materials otherwise

acceptable shall neither be excluded because of the race, color, sex, nationality, political opinions or

religious views of the writer, nor for the style of the material.

3. Every effort will be made to provide materials representing various points of view on important issues,

and those based on sound, factual authority shall not be excluded only because of partisan or doctrinal

approval or disapproval.

4. Basic factors to be considered in selection are the pertinent qualities of:

a. Truth; factual accuracy, authoritativeness, balance, integrity;

b. Art; attractiveness, stimulating presentation, imagination, creativeness, style appropriate to the

idea, and distinction.

5. Selection will be based on preview and actual examination to the extent possible with the assistance of

reviews and recommendations supplied as evaluation aids.

6. Request for materials must be approved by principal and/or supervisor.

7. Software, regardless of funding source, must be approved by the technology supervisor.

GRADING SYSTEM – POLICY 4.600

The Superintendent of Schools shall develop an administrative procedure to establish a system of grading and

assessment for evaluating and recording student progress and to measure student performance in conjunction

with Board-adopted content standards. The grading/assessment system shall follow applicable statues and

rules and regulations of the State Board of Education. The grading/assessment system shall be uniform district-

wide at comparable grade levels except that the Superintendent of Schools shall have the authority to establish

and operate ungraded and/or unstructured classes in grades K-3.

In grades 3-8, a student’s TCAP test scores will comprise 25% of the student’s final grade for the spring semester

in the subject areas o