600 - STUDENTS

601 STUDENT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

In order to establish an environment conducive to learning for each student, the Sevier County Board of Education establishes the following goals:

• To assure all students the same educational opportunities regardless of race, color, creed, religion, ethnic origin, sex, or disabilities;
• To protect and observe the legal rights of students;
• To promote a learning environment which provides opportunities for all students without regard to race, creed, ethnic origin, religion, sex, or disabilities;
• To enhance the self-image of each student by helping him/her feel respected and worthy through a learning environment which provides positive encouragement from frequent success;
• To provide an environment of reality in which students can learn personal and civic responsibility for their actions through meaningful experiences as school citizens;
• To deal with students in matters of discipline in a fair and constructive manner;
• To provide for the safety, health, and welfare of students; and
• To promote faithful attendance and good work.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

602 ATTENDANCE

Last Updated Date: 05/08/2023

Attendance is a key factor in student achievement and therefore, students are expected to be present and on time each day that school is in session.

The attendance supervisor (or his/her designee) will oversee the entire attendance program, which will include:

• All accounting and reporting procedures and their dissemination;

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

• Ensuring that all school age children attend school;

• Providing documentation of enrollment status upon request for students applying for new or reinstatement of driver's permit or license; and

• Notifying the Department of Safety whenever a student with a driver's permit or license drops out of school.

Absences and tardies will be classified as either excused or unexcused as determined by the principal or his/her designee using the following criteria as set forth by the Board.

Excused absences and tardies result from the following:

• Personal illness;

• Illness of immediate family member;

• Death in the family;

• Extreme weather conditions;

• Religious observances;

• School bus failures;

• Circumstances which in the judgment of the principal create emergencies over which the student had no control.

Other absences and tardies will be unexcused.

Students participating in school-sponsored activities whether on or off campus will not be counted absent. In order to be school-sponsored, the activity must be school planned, school oriented, and/or teacher supervised. All missed class work and tests must be made up when a student has an excused absence or is out of class on a school-sponsored activity.

When a student's tardy or absence is unexcused, the student will be allowed to make up tests missed. However, regular class work will not be made up and the student will receive a zero for that work. If there is no graded assignment given on the date of the unexcused absence, the student will receive a negative three points from his daily grade. If there is no graded assignment given on the date of the unexcused tardy, the student will receive a negative one point.

For grades K-12, parent/guardian notes will be accepted by the principal for each event of student illness in a semester or term for up to five days, with such events considered excused.  This excuse should be submitted to the school within two days of the student's return to class. Failure to present a note will result in the absence being unexcused.  If the illness becomes extended, the principal may request a medical statement to verify the illness. After five occasions in a semester or term, medical or other professional statements provided by a doctor, dentist, etc., may be required by the principal for each occasion. If requested by the principal, failure to provide the statements will cause the absence to become unexcused.  

K-12 students with excessive (more than 5) unexcused absences have the opportunity to appeal. Elementary school students/parents may appeal directly to the school principal or his/her designee. Each high school will create an Attendance Appeals Committee, to evaluate any requests for appeals waivers, or hardship cases related to the attendance policy. This committee will be chaired by the principal or his/her designee. The decision of this committee is final. The burden of proof for any appeal rests on the student or their parent/guardian.

For additional guidance relative to Attendance in grades 9-12 please refer to Board Policy 619. Any student having five or more unexcused absences will be considered for possible truancy actions. Sevier County Schools seeks to encourage and reinforce regular school attendance starting in the home. Beginning with the 2018-2019 school year, Sevier County Schools will implement the following Progressive Truancy Intervention Plan which will be distributed to students and parents on an annual basis.  To assist with notifications related to truancy, parents will provide multiple (telephone, address, email) accurate means of communication so that they can be kept apprised of attendance related issues.  Failure to maintain accurate contact information and to update this information as needed does not relieve parents of their responsibility to engage in communication with school personnel regarding attendance matters and may result in court action.

SCSS Progressive Truancy Intervention Plan

All students must follow the new state law, which requires school personnel to intervene with services for students who accrue five (5) or more unexcused absences during the school year. A student's first five (5) absences in each semester may be excused with a note from a parent.

Tier One (All Students)

All students shall receive notice of the Board’s Attendance Requirements and the Tiered Progressive Truancy Plan. This shall be part of the prevention-oriented support required of all schools in Sevier County, and it begins on the first day of school each year

Tier Two (Continued Accumulation of Unexcused Absences 5+)

A school based Attendance Team member will check student needs through an individualized assessment: will schedule and conduct a conference with the parents of the student and the student to review attendance; will have an attendance contract signed[1] by both the parents and the student; will schedule regular follow up meetings with the student and at least one parents; will refer the student to school counseling, if deemed necessary; and will r recommend and connect families with appropriate and available outside resources/interventions.

Tier Three (Continued Accumulation of Unexcused Absences 6+; Non Compliance with Tiers 1 & 2 Mandates)
The school-based Attendance Team will; review the attendance contract with the parents and student; potentially employ school-based community services, restorative justice programming, or Saturday or after-school courses meant to improve attendance. After attempting such interventions in Tier 3 unsuccessfully, the school-based Attendance Team, after reasonable attempts at verbal and/or written notice to the student’s parents, may make a referral to the appropriate juvenile authorities.

In instances where any tier of the Progressive Truancy Plan is unsuccessful with a student, and the school documents that the student’s parents or guardians are unwilling to cooperate with these truancy intervention requirements, then the student’s absences may be referred to the appropriate juvenile authorities, without the need for implementing subsequent tiers/interventions.

Policy References

[1]If one or both parents/guardians cannot physically sign such a contract, school system employees may utilize other tools available to confirm their agreement to the contractual terms (i.e., electronic signatures, faxed signatures, e-mail confirmations, verbally confirmation to sign by permission, etc.).

600 - STUDENTS

603 STUDENT ASSIGNMENT AND TRANSFERS WITHIN THE SYSTEM

Last Updated Date: 01/09/2006

The Sevier County Board of Education has established no attendance zones for schools in our system; however, bus transportation will be provided to the local school only. Parents who reside in Sevier County may transport their children to any school they choose.

After the first five days of school, parents of elementary students may not transfer their children from one school to another unless the parents move into a new community. For secondary students there will be no more than three days of open enrollment per term. An exception may be made to this statement if both gaining and losing principals believe that the transfer is in the best interest of the student(s) and the schools. If either or both principals disagree, the parents may appeal to the Superintendent's hearing officer.

Beginning on January 1, 2006, the Sevier County School System will cease to accept any student(s) from Blount County (this includes Seymour 37865 residents) unless the student(s) has siblings that are currently enrolled in the Sevier County School System. Parents must provide transportation for Blount students that are able to attend Sevier County Schools.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

604 RELEASE DURING SCHOOL HOURS

Last Updated Date: 08/14/2017

The following procedure will be observed with regard to dismissal of students:

•  No student will leave school prior to regular dismissal hours, except with the approval of the principal and parent. Elementary students will be permitted to leave school prior to regular dismissal time only in the company of a parent, legal guardian, school employee, police officer, court officer or a person designated by the parent(s).
• No student will be sent from the school during school hours to perform a personal errand or act as a personal messenger for a staff member.
• When a dental and medical appointment occurs during school hours, parent(s) should send a written request for dismissal or call for the student in person.
• Children will be released only upon the request of the parent whom the court holds directly responsible for the child, or who is the parent or guardian registered on the school record.
• No principal or teacher will permit a change in the physical custody of a child at school unless the person seeking custody of the child presents the school official with a certified copy of a valid court order from a Tennessee court designating the person who has custody of the child and the person seeking custody gives the school official reasonable advance notice of his/her intent to take custody of the child at school.
• High school students may be released for jobs if the student is enrolled in a work-based learning program.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

605 RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Sevier County Board of Education expects all school staff, students, and parents to assume the responsibilities for appropriate behaviors in the school.
 

Each student has the right to:

• Have the opportunity for a free education in the most appropriate learning environment;
• Be secure in his/her person, papers, and effects against unreasonable searches and seizure;
• Expect that the school will be a safe place;
• Have an appropriate environment conducive to learning;
• Not be discriminated against on the basis of sex, race, color, creed, religion, national origin, or disabilities; and
• Be informed of school rules and regulations.

Each student has the responsibility to:

• Know and adhere to reasonable rules and regulation established by the Board and school administration;
• Respect the human dignity and worth of every other individual;
• Refrain from libel, slanderous remarks, and obscenity in verbal and written expression;
• Study and maintain the best possible level of academic achievement;
• Be punctual and present in the regular school program;
• Dress and groom in a manner that meets reasonable standards of health, cleanliness, modesty and safety;
• Maintain and/or improve the school environment, preserve school and private property, and exercise care while using school facilities;
• Refrain from behaviors which would lead to physical or emotional harm or disruption to the educational process;
• Respect the authority of school administrators, teacher, and other authorized persons in maintaining discipline in the school and at school-sponsored activities;
• Obey the law and school rules as to the possession or the use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and other unauthorized substances or materials; and
• Possess on school grounds only those materials which are acceptable under the law and accept the consequences for articles stored in one's lockers.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

606 PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS

Last Updated Date: 02/09/2004

Before school authorities administer disciplinary measures, reasonable inquiry will be made to determine the truth of what happened. The nature of this inquiry will vary in degree with the seriousness of the offense and the consequence attached thereto.

For minor offenses where corrective measures are taken by the classroom teacher, no formal procedure is required. An inquiry into the incident to ensure that the offender is accurately identified, that he/she understands the nature of the offense, and that he/she knew or should have known the consequences of the offense for which he/she is accused.

In case of severe offenses where there is a possibility of suspension, expulsion, or alternative placement, the student will be advised of the nature of his/her misconduct, questioned about it, and allowed to give an explanation.
 

If the principal or assistant principal determines that the offense is of such nature that the student's continued presence would be detrimental to the school or persons within the school, he/she will suspend the student or make an alternative placement as would be appropriate for the situation. If the alternative placement is for twenty (20) days or more, the suspension is for ten (10) days, or expulsion is deemed required, the student will be referred for a Superintendent's hearing. The superintendent's hearing officer will conduct an investigation into the matter that will include a conference with the student and/or parent(s) in addition to the principal or assistant principal. At the end of the hearing, the superintendent's hearing officer will made a decision regarding disciplinary sanctions for the student and the results of the hearing will be reduced to writing. Should a parent/guardian wish to appeal an alternative placement of less than twenty (20) days or a suspension of less than ten (10) days, the appeal would be to the Superintendent's hearing officer.

A timely appeal by a parent or guardian of a decision by the Superintendent's hearing officer involving a suspension, an alternative placement, or an expulsion, would be to the disciplinary hearing authority (DHA). This authority would consist three (3) members, one of whom must be a licensed employee of the Board of Education. Timely (appeal) is defined as five (5) days or less.

The DHA hearing will be held no later than ten (10) days after the beginning of suspension, alternative placement, or an expulsion. The DHA will give the parent or guardian due notice of the time and place of the hearing. The parent/guardian may or may not be represented by an attorney. At the conclusion of the hearing, the DHA will present a report to the Superintendent which will detail the facts presented at the hearing as well as the conclusions and decisions reached at the DHA. The DHA may affirm the decision of the Superintendent's hearing officer, or order removal of a suspension, alternative placement, or expulsion unconditionally, or may assign the student additional suspension time or additional alternative placement time.

A written record of the proceedings, including a summary of the facts and reasons supporting the DHA's decision, will be produced. Should a parent or guardian wish to request review of the decision by the DHA involving a suspension of more than ten (10) days, or alternative placement of more than twenty (20)days, or an expulsion, the parent/guardian must inform the Superintendent within five days. Then the Board, based upon a review of the record, may grant or deny a request for a Board hearing, may affirm or overturn the decision of the DHA with or without hearing before the Board, or, may grant a hearing to the student if the Board's intent is to impose a penalty greater than that imposed by the DHA. Absent a timely appeal the decision of the DHA is final. 

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

607 INTERROGATIONS AND SEARCHES

Last Updated Date: 02/08/2016

Questioning and Interrogation

 Students may be questioned by teachers or principals about any matter pertaining to the operation of a school and/or the enforcement of its rules. Questioning should be conducted discreetly and under circumstances which will avoid unnecessary embarrassment to the student being questioned. Any student answering falsely, evasively or refusing to answer a proper question may be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension.

If a student is suspected or accused of any offense committed in school or on school property at any time, the principal (or his/her designee) may question the student, without the presence of parents(s) and without giving the student constitutional warnings.

If a student is suspected or accused of a crime not involving the operation of a school, or if interrogation of particular student is police instigated, a parent must be notified and constitutional warnings given to the student before interrogation begins. If the principal has requested assistance by a law enforcement agency to investigate a crime involving his/her school, the agency has permission to interrogate a student suspect in school during school hours. The school principal will notify the parent(s) of the student and request them to come and be present during the interrogation.

Parents must be present if criminal prosecution is contemplated. Constitutional warnings must be given and noted. During any law enforcement interrogations on school grounds, the principal (or designee) must be present. Interrogations would not include law enforcement agencies interviewing or questioning alleged victims or witnesses.

Searches at School 

 Any principal (or his/her designee) having reasonable cause for a search may search any student, place, or thing (including student lockers or cars) on school property or in the actual or constructive possession of any student during any organized school activity off campus, including buses, if the principal receives information which would cause a reasonable suspicion that the search would lead to the discovery of:

• Evidence of any violation of the law;
• Evidence of any violation of school rules or regulations or proper standards of student conduct;
• Any object or substance which, because of its presence, presents an immediate danger or harm or illness to any person.

All of the following standards for reasonable must be met:

• A particular student has violated policy or law;
• The search could be expected to yield evidence of the violation of school policy or disclosure of a dangerous weapon, drug, or alcohol;
• The search is in pursuit of legitimate interests of the school in maintaining order, discipline, safety, supervision and education of students; and
• The primary purpose of the search is not to collect evidence for criminal prosecution.

Whenever the possibility of uncovering evidence of a criminal nature exists, the principal or his/her designee may request the assistance of a law enforcement officer to search any area of the school premises, any student, or any motor vehicle on the school grounds or identify or dispose of anything found in the course of a search conducted in accordance with this policy. School administrators should be advised that a search warrant may be necessary if evidence of a criminal nature is suspected.

With prior approval of the Director of Schools (or the Director’s designee), law enforcement agencies located within Sevier County may perform periodic/random sweeps of common areas, storage facilities, vehicles parked on school property and lockers owned by the school system for contraband, including drugs, weapons or other items of an illegal or prohibited nature, using police-trained K-9 teams (scent dogs with officers/handlers). Such K-9 sweeps will be conducted by a group, including the school principal (or his/her designee), the school resource officer (if available), and the police-trained K-9 team.

K9 sweeps may only be conducted outside regular school hours or while students are in class. Examination of a student or staff member’s person, including clothing while on the person, by a K-9 team is strictly prohibited. If a K-9 "alerts" to an item, vehicle or place, the principal (or his/her designee) will determine, in collaboration with the K-9 officer, the most appropriate course of action. If drugs, weapons or other contraband are found, they will be immediately seized and a police investigation will be conducted in compliance with the above-terms of this policy. Such findings may also result in student or staff discipline, up to and including expulsion or dismissal.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

608 STUDENT CONDUCT

The staff is authorized to take reasonable measures to establish appropriate school behavior. Any professional employee will have the authority to control the conduct of any student while under the supervision of the school system. This authority will extend to all activities of the school, including all games and public performances of athletic teams and other school groups, trips, excursions, and all other activities under school sponsorship and direction.

Such measures may include the use of reasonable or justifiable force to restrain or correct students and maintain order. An employee may, for example, relocate a student from the student's present location to another location for the student's safety or the safety of others. The use of reasonable or justifiable force, if required to accomplish this task due to the unwillingness of the student to cooperate, is allowed. If steps beyond the use of reasonable or justifiable force are required, the student shall be allowed to remain in place until such a time as local law enforcement officers or school resource officers can be summoned to relocate the student or take the student into custody until such a time as a parent or guardian can retrieve the student. This policy shall also cover an employee’s authorization to intervene in a physical altercation between two (2) or more students, or between a student and an employee(s) using reasonable or justifiable force upon a student, if necessary to end the altercation by relocating the student to another location. If an employee has to use reasonable or justifiable force under this policy, he/she shall file a brief report with the school principal detailing the situation that required force.

A student will not use violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or any other conduct which causes the disruption, interference or obstruction of any school purpose while on school property, in school vehicles or buses, or at any school-sponsored activity, function, or event, whether on or off campus. Neither will he/she urge other students to engage in such conduct.

A student found guilty of misbehavior may receive punishment ranging from verbal reprimand to suspension and/or expulsion dependent on the severity of the offense and the offender's prior record.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

609 STUDENT USE OF TOBACCO OR ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES

Last Updated Date: 03/21/2022

The use and possession of tobacco or smoking products will mean holding of cigarette, cigar, pipe, or electronic cigarette; any inhaling of smoke; or any chewing or dipping of any tobacco product. Tennessee law defines “electronic cigarette” as an electronic device that converts nicotine into a vapor that is inhaled by the user.

Minor Students

Students who are minors (under age eighteen) will be subject to civil penalties and will receive a citation after the first such offense that will be handled by appropriate legal authorities. Minor students should remember that it remains illegal in Tennessee for persons under the age of eighteen to purchase, possess, or use tobacco products or electronic cigarettes. TCA 39-17-1505

The health and welfare of the district’s students are paramount. Due to the increased prevalence of vaping products and vaping-related incidents in the schools, the district seeks to implement a uniform method of discipline to address the illicit use of these harmful products. Below are guidelines for all district staff to use when issuing discipline to students who use, possess, and/or distribute vaping products on district property, at district events, and district school buses. While students who are 18 years of age or older may not receive a tobacco citation, they are subject to the same disciplinary penalties as minors.

Individual Use of Tobacco/Vaping Products

When one student is caught vaping or in possession of tobacco or vaping paraphernalia, district staff should consider the following guidelines:

• 1st offense: administrative referral with a school-level punishment 
• 2nd offense: recommendation that SRO issue a citation; 3 days Greenbrier Alternative placement or OSS
• 3rd offense: recommendation that SRO issue a citation; 5 days Greenbrier Alternative placement or OSS
• 4th offense: recommendation that SRO issue a citation; 10 days Greenbrier Alternative placement or OSSDistribution of Tobacco/Vaping Products and Shared Use

When one student is caught using tobacco or vaping or in possession of tobacco or vaping paraphernalia and/or it is confirmed that the student has shared the tobacco or vaping paraphernalia with other students or distributed the tobacco or vaping paraphernalia to other students, district staff should consider the following guidelines:

• 1st offense: 3 days Greenbrier Alternative placement or OSS
• 2nd offense: recommendation that SRO issue a citation; 5 days Greenbrier Alternative placement or OSS
• 3rd offense: recommendation that SRO issue a citation; 10 days Greenbrier Alternative placement or OSS
• 4th offense: recommendation that SRO issue a citation; superintendent’s hearing

Other involved students should be disciplined according to  the “Use of Tobacco/Vaping Products” guidelines above.

Possession of THC

In the event district staff learns (by student admission) that a student is in possession of vaporizing devices (e-cigarettes, dab pens, or others) that utilize THC, district staff will contact the School Resource Officer for further investigation by the School Resource Officer. Students will be disciplined in accordance with the above guidelines unless further information is later provided that indicates the student was in possession of a drug, controlled substance, or legend drug – in which case the student will be disciplined in accordance with Board Policy 611A.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

610 BUS CONDUCT

The school bus is an extension of school activity; therefore, students must conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with the established standards for safety and classroom behavior.

Students are under the supervision and control of the bus driver while on his/her bus and all reasonable directions given by the driver will be followed. The principal of the student transported will be informed by the bus driver of any serious discipline problem and may be called upon to assist if necessary. A student may be denied the privilege of riding the bus if the principal determines that his/her behavior is such as to cause disruption on the bus, or if the student disobeys state or local rules and regulations pertaining to student transportation. The suspension of a student from the riding the school bus will follow the same general procedures as any other school suspension.

Any student wishing to ride a bus other than his/her designated bus or to get off at a non-standard location must present written parental permission AND the written approval from the student’s principal. The same rule also applies to any student who wishes to gets off at any point between the pick-up point and the school. The student’s bus driver shall be required to turn the signed note(s) over to the Transportation Director as soon as practicable after completion of the route.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

611 WEAPONS & DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS

Students will not possess, handle, transmit, use or attempt to use any dangerous weapon in school buildings or on school grounds at any time, or in school vehicles and/or buses or off the school ground at a school-sponsored, function or event. (Hunter safety courses with proper supervision are excluded.)

Students are further forbidden to use any instruments or substances such as chemicals, pencils, scissors, razors, or compasses with the intent to do harm or in a manner which renders the item dangerous.

Student who violate this policy are subject to suspension or expulsion.

Upon information that a student is suspected of violating this policy, the principal of the school will be notified immediately. The principal will notify the student's parent or guardian and the appropriate law enforcement officials as required by law. After inquiry and obtaining the facts, the principal will take appropriate action.

Various laws also require that a student be expelled for at least one year for having a gun on campus.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

611 A ZERO TOLERANCE OFFENSES

In order to ensure a safe and secure learning environment, the following offenses will not be tolerated:

Weapons & Dangerous Instruments
Students will not possess, handle, transmit, use or attempt to use any dangerous weapon in school buildings or on school grounds at any time, or in school vehicles and/or buses or off the school grounds at a school-sponsored activity function, function, or event.

Dangerous weapons for the purposes of this policy shall include, but are not limited to any firearm, explosive device, explosive weapon, Bowie knife, hawk bill knife, ice pick, dagger, slingshot, switch-blade knife, blackjack, or brass (metal) knuckles.

Violators of this section will be subject to suspension and/or expulsion from school for periods up to one calendar year.

Firearms (as defined in 18 USC 921)
In accordance with state law, any student who brings or possesses a firearm on school property shall be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. The director of schools has the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis. TCA 49-6-4018

Drugs
In accordance with state law, any students who unlawfully possesses any drug including any controlled substance or legend drug will be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. The director of school has the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis. TCA 49-6-4018

Battery
In accordance with state law, any student who commits battery upon any teacher, principal, administrator, any other employee of the school system or school resource officer will be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. The director of school has the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis. TCA 49-6-4018

Notification
When it is determined that a student has violated this policy, the principal of the school will notify the student's parent or guardian and the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system as required by law.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

612 CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY

Students must help maintain the school environment, preserve school property, and exercise care while using school facilities.

District employees will 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 will make a full and complete investigation of any instance of damage or loss of school property. The investigation will 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 this Board.

When the person causing the damage or loss is identified and the costs of repair or replacement have been determined, the superintendent or designee will take steps to recover these costs. If the responsible person is a minor, recovery will be sought from the minor's parent or guardian.

In addition, the system 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.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

613 CORPORAL PUNISHMENT

Last Updated Date: 01/09/2023

“Corporal punishment” consists of paddling, spanking, or other forms of physical punishment imposed on a student. Under Tennessee law (Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-4402), corporal punishment remains prohibited for use against any student unless an LEA's discipline policy permits the use of such punishment. By enactment of this revised Policy, the Sevier County Board of Education and its Director of Schools hereby prohibit the use of corporal punishment by and on behalf of Sevier County Schools.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

614 DETENTION

Students may be detained before or after the school day as a means of disciplinary action.

The following guidelines will be followed:

• The student and his/her parent or guardian will be given at least one day of notice before the detention;
• Students in detention will be under the supervision of certified staff members;
• Detention will not exceed one hour after the official closing of the school day but may be administered several days in succession;
• Teachers must have the approval of the principal before detaining a student; and
• Detention may not be used if the parent or guardian is not able to provide transportation home after the detention.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

615 SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS

Students will be under the supervision of school personnel, either certified or non-certified, at all times, including play periods, and lunch periods, as well as during the school day and during extracurricular activities.

The principal will assign students to school personnel and ensure proper supervision. 

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

616 CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

Last Updated Date: 08/08/2022

General
The Director of Schools or his/her designee shall:

1. Designate two individuals at each school to serve as (1) the Child Abuse Coordinator; and (2) the Alternate Child Abuse Coordinator;
2. Require that each Child Abuse Coordinator and Alternate Child Abuse Coordinator receive the appropriate training mandated by State law;
3. Provide each Child Abuse Coordinator with the necessary resources; and
4. Ensure that all school employees working directly with students complete the child abuse training program annually as required by State law.
5. Submit each Child Abuse Coordinator’s contact information to the Department of Children’s Service at the beginning of each school year.HB 2582/SB2239

Child Abuse Coordinator
The Child Abuse Coordinator shall be available to and assist any employee with appropriately reporting and responding to instances of child abuse or child sexual abuse. The Child Abuse Coordinator shall serve as a liaison between the school, the Department of Children’s Services, and law enforcement with regard to child abuse and child sexual abuse investigations. The Child Abuse Coordinator will also maintain confidential files in accordance with applicable law separate from the child’s educational file.

Reporting
All school personnel will be alert for any evidence of child abuse or neglect. If personnel have knowledge or reason to suspect child abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect, a report shall be filed immediately with the School’s Child Abuse Coordinator, the Department of Children’s Services, and the law enforcement. When alleged child abuse involves someone employed by, previously employed by, or otherwise affiliated with the school system, the report may be made directly to DCS and law enforcement prior to notifying the Coordinator.  Child abuse is defined as any wound, injury, disability, or physical or mental condition which is of such nature as to reasonably indicate that it has been caused by brutality, abuse or neglect or which on the basis of available information reasonably appears to have been caused by such.

The report shall include (to the extent known to the reporter):

1. The name, age, telephone number, and address of the child,
2. The name, telephone number, and address of the parent or person having custody of the child,
3. The nature and extent of the abuse or neglect, and
4. Any evidence to the cause or any other information that may relate to cause or extent of the abuse or neglect.

School Child Abuse Coordinators, school teachers, school officials, and other school personnel, shall not provide any information relevant to the suspected child abuse or child sexual abuse to the child’s parent/guardian, and must refer any questions from the child’s parent/guardian to the investigating law enforcement agency and the Department of Children’s Services.

Investigations 
School administrators and employees have a duty to cooperate and provide assistance and information in child abuse investigations including permitting DCS teams to conduct interviews while the child is at school. The principal may control the time, place, and circumstances of the interview but may not insist that a school employee be present even if the suspected abuser is a school employee or another student. The principal is not in violation of any laws by failing to inform parent(s)/guardian(s) that the child is to be interviewed even if the suspected abuser is not a member of the child’s household.

Confidentiality
District employees shall keep all information regarding any child abuse confidential in accordance with state law.
 

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

617 STUDENT VEHICLES

Students who ride bicycles or drive motor vehicles to school must leave the vehicles parked in designated areas until the end of the school day, unless permission is obtained from the principal or other appropriate authority to use or be in or on said vehicle.

Parking regulations for each school will be developed by the principal and published in the school handbook or student guide.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

618 STUDENTS TRANSFERRING FROM NON-ACCREDITED PRIVATE SCHOOLS OR HOME SCHOOLS

Students wishing to enter the Sevier County School System from schools that are not accredited by the State of Tennessee or a regional accrediting agency such as SACS or from home schools must take an achievement test before enrolling in school. The student will then be placed in the grade corresponding to his/her achievement scores, but in no event will the placement be above the age group or above the grade level in which the student was operating in the private setting.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

619 HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDANCE & GRADING

Last Updated Date: 09/10/2018

Revisions History: Amended on August 10, 2020

High school students will adhere to the following policy as it relates to high school attendance. (For general guidelines, refer to Board Policy 602.)

In the event of illness that would require an absence from school, the principal will accept a parent note on five days per semester. These five days will be excused absences. If the illness becomes extended the principal may request a medical or other statement to verify the illness. After these five days, medical or other professional statements provided by a doctor, dentist, etc. may be required for each occasion. Lack of this statement will cause the absence to become unexcused.

Excessive tardies result in lost learning time for students. A student with a total of four cumulative unexcused tardies during a semester grading period will be subject to disciplinary action and parent notification. Each subsequent tardy during a semester will result in disciplinary action determined at the discretion of the principal.

A record of class absences will be kept by each teacher. A student missing more than twenty (20) minutes of the class period of a class period is considered absent for that class.

Principals may require a conference with a student's parents if there is a question on the authenticity of a parent note. A parent is expected to provide a written excuse for a student's absence(s). This excuse should be on file within two days of the student's return to school. Failure to present a note will result in the absence being unexcused.

All students in grades 9-12 are required to take comprehensive six weeks tests in each course for first, second, fourth, and fifth six weeks grading periods.
 

Students who have no more than 1 excused absence during the semester are eligible to exempt semester tests in up to 2 of their courses. Students cannot exempt state End-of-Course examinations. State End-of-Course examinations are required in English I, English II, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, Biology, and US History. Further, the results of these examinations will be factored into the student’s grade at a percentage determined by the State Board of Education in accordance with T.C.A. §49-1-302 (2). The weight of the end-of-course examination on the student’s course average shall be 15%. Students may also not exempt Dual Enrollment, Dual Credit, or Advanced Placement Course exams.

Grade averages for each course are determined as follows:

Semester Average

• Students taking semester exam: Average of three six weeks - 85%; the remaining 15% being the semester test score.
• Students exempt from semester exam: Three six weeks averaged equally.

Six Weeks Grade Computation

• Daily average (quizzes, homework, etc.) - 66 2/3%
• Test average (at least two major tests; one must be cumulative) - 33 1/3%

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

620 LICE INFESTATION

Last Updated Date: 10/15/2012

With respect to an infestation of pediculosis (lice), it remains the Board of Education’s duty to follow guidelines promulgated by the U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). [1] According to the CDC, students diagnosed with live head lice do not need to be sent home early from school. Those students can go home at the end of the day, be treated, and return to class after appropriate treatment has begun. [2]

Neither the CDC nor the Board of Education will make recommendations as to what specific product or products should be used to treat students for lice infestation. [3] Both over-the-counter and prescription products are available. The Board of Education encourages parents to contact a doctor, pharmacist, or the health department for additional information about which products are recommended.

Before returning to school, parents of students diagnosed with live head lice must report some form of treatment to the building level principal or his/her designee.

1 Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 1200-14-01-.24(2).
2 Found on the CDC website at: http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/schools.html.
3 Found on the CDC website at: http://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/parents.html. 

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

621 APPROVED FAMILY VACATIONS

Last Updated Date: 05/08/2023

The Sevier County Board of Education recognizes that families may request a vacation. Parents should make such requests directly to the school principal. The Board allows the principal to approve one family vacation per year for a student for up to five days. Students with 3 or more unexcused absences, more than 10 absences of any variety, or those approaching the state’s threshold for being considered chronically absent during the current or previous academic year shall not be approved for vacation days.  If more than five days are requested, the principal will refer the request to the Central Office with a recommendation for approval or disapproval. If any request is disapproved, the parents may appeal the decision to the Superintendent's hearing officer.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

622 TRUANCY

A student absent without the consent of his parents or in violation of Sevier County Board of Education policy is truant. Truancy is cause for disciplinary action including assignment to ALC, suspension, expulsion, and/or legal action. Students are considered truant in the following situations:

• Absent from school for five or more days unexcused;
• Leaving school without permission and/or failing to sign out in school office;
• Failing to report to class without reporting to clinic or school official; and
• Continued unexcused absences.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

623 MAKE-UP WORK

Students who receive an excused absence are required to make up work missed in each class. In grades 7-12, it is the student's responsibility to obtain all make-up work from teachers immediately upon returning to school. Students in grades K-6 may receive prompts from teachers to ensure that work is completed on time. Students have at least the same number of days absent to complete the make-up work. Teachers and principals may extend this make-up time if situations warrant an extension.

Students who receive an unexcused absence will not be permitted to make up missed daily work. Instead the student will receive a zero for this daily work. Major tests may be made up.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

624 COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE RELATING TO DRIVERS' LICENSE

Any student between the ages of 15 through 18 must obtain a certification of compulsory school attendance before obtaining a Tennessee Driver's License or an Instructional (learner's) Permit. This permit must be obtained from the student's school principal or assistant principal.

Any student between the ages of 15 through 18 who withdraws from school except for the purpose of transferring to another school or due to circumstances beyond the student's control, or who accumulates ten consecutive unexcused absences, fifteen cumulative unexcused absences within a semester, or failure to maintain satisfactory academic progress* will be reported to the Department of Safety for being out of compliance with the compulsory attendance laws. Students will have their licenses or permits suspended by the Department of Safety.

Any student between the ages of 15 through 18 who has been reported to the Department of Safety for non-compliance of the attendance laws may apply for reinstatement of a suspended driver's license or permit upon return to school and completion of thirty days of school attendance without an unexcused absence, enrollment in a GED program and completion of six weeks of good attendance, or maintain passing grades in two or more units for at least a six weeks grading period (if the suspension were due to the student's failure to maintain satisfactory academic progress). To apply for reinstatement, the student should obtain a Certificate of Compulsory School Attendance from the school principal or assistant principal.

Satisfactory academic progress is defined as passing two or more units per semester.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

625 SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION

The principal may suspend a student from attendance to school for as long as ten days or from riding a school bus for ten days if the conduct of the student is such to warrant such action. The suspension will be reported to the Central Office on forms provided and the student's parent or guardian will be notified by presentation of the parent copy of the suspension form to the parent in person or by letter (registered if necessary). The suspension form will not be given to the student to deliver to the parent/guardian. If the suspension is for more than five (5) days, the principal shall develop and implement a plan of behavior which shall be made available for the superintendent or his/her designee upon request.

An offense that warrants expulsion will be reported in writing as a recommendation for a superintendent's hearing. After the superintendent's hearing the student may be assigned an additional suspension of up to ten days, assigned alternative placement, or expelled. The parents or guardian may appeal any suspension or expulsion as outlined in Board Policy 606.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

626 ALCOHOL ABUSE

The Sevier County Board of Education is concerned about the abuse of alcohol by students in this school system. The curriculum will address appropriate alcohol (as well as drug) education programs at all levels. The Board further states that every reasonable effort will be made to ensure that the environment of all our schools, shops, and offices are alcohol and drug free.
 

Alcohol Abuse by Students in Grades 5-12

A student may be suspended for use, possession, selling, or distribution of alcohol. Possession, use, selling or distribution may be punished by a twenty day alternative placement or a ten day suspension. Should an administrator feel that the ten day suspension is not adequate, a superintendent's hearing may be convened within ten days and an additional ten days may be considered. (Students in grades 5 & 6 must have the prior approval of the superintendent for ALC placement.) A petition may be filed in court by the principal if such action appears warranted.

If the student has an alternative placement, the student must have a superintendent's hearing before his/her return to the home school. The hearing officer will review the facts of the case and may recommend a return to the home school or an additional alternative placement time. A student selling alcohol will be suspended from school pending a superintendent's hearing to be convened within ten school days. The student will be considered for expulsion.

The student's parents or guardian may appeal any suspension, an expulsion, or an alternative placement. Procedures for the appeal are outlined in Board Policy 606.

A student committing a second offense during the academic year will be suspended from school and a superintendent's hearing will be convened within ten days. The student will be considered for expulsion for at least ninety days.

If the student is expelled, he/she must appear before the Board to request permission to return to school after the term of the expulsion.

If the student is suspended or expelled near the end of a school year, then the suspension or expulsion will continue into the next school year until the full term of the suspension or expulsion.

Alcohol Abuse by Students in Grades K-4
A student who uses, has possession of, or is under the influence of alcohol will be considered for a ten day out-of-school suspension and will be required to have a superintendent's hearing. The hearing officer will review the facts of the case and make appropriate recommendations. A student committing a second offense during the academic year will be suspended awaiting a superintendent's hearing. This hearing will convene within ten days to consider a possible suspension of up to ninety days or even expulsion. The student must appear before the Board before re-entering school. The parent/guardian may appeal suspensions or expulsions as outlined in Board Policy 606.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

627 USE OF MEDICINES BY STUDENTS

The Sevier County Board of Education acknowledges the fact that students occasionally must take prescription medicine during school time as prescribed by a licensed physician or dentist or non-prescription medicine as requested by a parent/guardian. When medicines must be taken during school hours, the student must be competent to self-administer the medication with assistance and must adhere to the following procedure:

• Medications must be delivered to the principal's office or homeroom teacher (as designated by the principal) either by the parent or by the student unless the medication must be retained by the student for immediate administration (such as students with asthma). If the medication is sent with the student, the parent should seal the medication in an envelope to guard the medication during travel from home to school. The medication must be brought to school either in a container appropriately labeled by the pharmacy or physician or in a manufacturer's original container and labeled with ingredients listed and the student's name affixed to the container.
• Complete written instructions signed by the parent will accompany all medications to include student name, name of medication, name of physician (prescription medicine), time to be administered, dosage, and directions for administering medication, possible side effects (if known), and termination date for administration.
• The principal or designee will keep an accurate record of the administration of the medication, keep the medication in a locked cabinet or room until dosage is administered to the student, and return unused medication to the parent at the termination date.
• Students failing to follow these procedures will be considered for possible violations of the drug and alcohol abuse policy.
• All information about the medicine will be considered confidential.
• A student that has been prescribed the drug Aanaphylaxis@ may possess and self-administer anaphylaxis, provided that the parent(s) present a written statement releasing the system and its agents from liability from the self-administering of this drug and the student's physician a statement that the student has anaphylaxis and is able to self-administer anaphylaxis.

Procedure to be followed by the principal or designee:

• Identify the student.
• Identify the medication.
• Note student name on bottle.
• Note date of medication on bottle.
• Note dosage on bottle.
• Note instructions on bottle/parent note.
• Administer the dosage of medication as directed.
• Record time the medication was given on medication record.
• Return medication to locked cabinet or room.

Should specific questions arise, the principal or designee will contact the parent and/or the nurse that serves the school.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

628 STANDARDIZED DRESS AND GROOMING CODE FOR GRADES PRE-K THROUGH 12

Last Updated Date: 11/13/2017

The Sevier County School System recognizes the effect which student dress and grooming have upon student behavior and commitment to learning. Attire considered disruptive to health or safety is not appropriate. The following rules concerning dress and grooming are mandatory in grades Pre-K-12, beginning with the 2017-2018 school year.

Bottom Wear (Waist and Below-pants, skirts, shorts, skorts)

Bottom wear must be size appropriate for the wearer, with no sagging or bagging, and must be worn securely at and around the waist so as not to reveal undergarments and to prevent pant legs from touching the floor. Large bell-bottoms that expose less than one-fourth of the foot, large pockets (pockets that are excessively large or expand to be excessively large) are not permitted. Leggings and other similar bottom wear may be worn with a top which covers the student’s buttocks and torso base.

Bottom wear must exceed the length of the wearer’s fingertips when arms/hands are fully extended. Tears/rips/frays are allowed in bottom wear when they are located on the garment beyond the wearer’s fingertips when arms/hands are fully extended; otherwise, exposed skin areas must be covered. No undergarments can be exposed.

Top Wear (Waist and Above)

Shirts must be size appropriate for the wearer. Sleeveless topwear is permitted as long as the shoulder area is covered with a non-see-through material; straps of less than the child’s hand width and tank tops do not meet these requirements. Bare midriffs shall not be allowed. Size-appropriate fleece pullovers; light jackets; long sleeve crewneck, v-neck, or cardigan sweater vests; or sweatshirts may be worn over an approved shirt.

Dresses
Girls may wear dresses appropriately sized for the wearer and the length must exceed the length of the wearer’s fingertips when arms are fully extended; otherwise, exposed skin areas must be covered. No undergarments can be exposed. Dresses may either have sleeves or be a sleeveless dress as long as no undergarments are visible. Dresses will not have string or spaghetti straps, but will have straps that come to the edge of the shoulder. Straps of less than the child’s hand width will not meet these requirements.

Shoes

Shoes must be worn at all times.

Coats

Coats, heavy jackets, or raincoats shall not be worn inside the building unless otherwise directed by the school principal or his/her designee in an unusual situation.

All Apparel

Articles of clothing shall not be worn which imply or promote alcohol, sex, drugs, tobacco, violence, gangs, racial slurs, or offensive language.

Head
No headgear or sunglasses will be worn in the building (except those worn for obvious medical reasons or religious purposes).

Accessories

Any accessory that presents a potential danger to self or others is prohibited.

Other
Tattoos, whether permanent or temporary, will be covered if possible. Visible body piercing jewelry (except of the ears) is prohibited. Hair is not to be sprayed or dyed in unnatural colors (such as blue, pink, green, orange, yellow, etc.).

Special Days

Schools may develop special dress days for occasions at the direction of the school principal.

Special Situations

If a student cannot comply with the standardized dress code based on special conditions or religious beliefs, his or her parent or guardian may write a letter explaining the situation to the Superintendent or his/her designee, with a copy to the school principal or his/her designee. Each case will be dealt with on an individual basis. To insure the health and safety of students, the school principal or his/her designee is allowed to further restrict manner of dress or style of hair in specific curriculum areas (shop, chemistry lab, etc.).

Bookbags

Bookbags must be constructed from materials that allow the contents of the bookbag to be visible. Any band instrument or necessary sports bags must be dropped off at an area designated by the building level principal.

Any student not attired in accordance with the foregoing policy shall be subject to disciplinary consequences as per board policy. In addition to the foregoing, when a student is attired in a manner that is likely to cause disruption or interference with the operation of the school, the principal shall take appropriate action.

Legal Reference: T.C.A. 49-6-4215

Policy Reference

600 - STUDENTS

629 STUDENTS OF LEGAL AGE

Although individuals are adults on becoming 18 years of age, these individuals who are students in the Sevier County School System must conform to all rules and regulations of the system and school. These students will submit to the authority of teachers, administrators, and others who have authority over them.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

630 HIGH SCHOOL GRADING SCALE

Last Updated Date: 08/08/2022

Effective beginning with the school year 2022-2023, grading will be uniform within grades 9-12 as follows:  

*Only students who pass Dual Enrollment courses or sit for the Local/State Dual Credit, Industry Certification, Advanced Placement, and/or International Baccalaureate challenge exams are eligible to receive additional percentage points.

Framework of Standards for Honors Courses
Honors courses must be approved annually by the Sevier County Board of Education. Honors course requests must be submitted by each school to the secondary supervisor for approval no later than May 1 preceding the school year during which the course will be taught. Honors courses will add three (3) points to all grades used to calculate the semester average (exception: courses that utilize a state End-of-Course Test as the final examination will not add three points to the semester exam grade).

Honors courses will substantially exceed the content standards, learning expectations, and performance indicators approved by the State Board of Education. Teachers of honors courses must model instructional approaches that facilitate maximum interchange of ideas among students: independent study, self-directed research and learning, and appropriate use of technology. All honors courses must include multiple assessments exemplifying coursework (such as short answer, constructed-response prompts, performance-based tasks, open-ended questions, essays, original or creative interpretations, authentic products, portfolios, and analytical writing).

Additionally, an honors course shall include a minimum of five of the following components:
Extended reading assignments that connect and extend the course curriculum.

• Research-based writing assignments that address and extend the course curriculum.
• Projects that apply course curriculum to relevant or real-world situations. These may include oral presentations, PowerPoint presentations, or other modes of sharing findings. Connection of the project to the community is encouraged.
• Open-ended investigations in which the student selects the questions and designs the research.
• Writing assignments that demonstrate a variety of modes, purposes, and styles.
  • Examples of mode include narrative, descriptive, persuasive, expository, and expressive.
  • Examples of purpose include informing, entertaining, and persuading.
  • Examples of style include formal, informal, literary, analytical, and technical.
• Integration of appropriate technology into the course of study.
• Deeper exploration of the culture, values, and history of the discipline.
• Extensive opportunities for problem-solving experiences through imagination, critical Analysis, and application.
• Job shadowing experiences with presentations which connect class study to the world of work.

Technical courses that offer a National Industry Certification through a nationally recognized examination will be weighted by adding 3 points to all grades used to calculate the term average. National Industry Certification courses must also be approved annually by the Sevier County Board of Education.

Framework for Advanced Placement Courses
Advanced Placement courses must be approved annually by the Board. Advanced Placement courses will add five (5) points to all grades used to calculate the term average. To receive Board approval to teach an Advanced Placement course, the teacher must submit a course syllabus outlining the course of study no later than May 1 preceding the school year when the course will be taught. All courses labeled “AP” should include or exceed the topics, skills, materials, and instructional practices colleges and universities have identified as essential to the corresponding college course.

The required elements of Advanced Placement courses are as follows:

• Name of course.
• Course-long plan (by unit, month, week, or organizing principle of teacher’s choice) that includes:
  • What will be taught in course: topics, themes, conceptual approaches, and/or skills.
  • Major assignments and assessments: required readings, essays, projects, exams, quizzes, activities, and/or problem sets.
• Complete bibliographic citations (author, title, publisher, year, edition) for the textbook used; and/or description of any self-created packet(s); and/or listing of any other textbooks used.
• If applicable, a paragraph to describe the types and quantity of other instructional materials used in the course (i.e., primary sources, newspapers, journals, audio-visual materials, software, model of graphing calculator, etc.).
• Teachers of Advanced Placement science courses will include in their syllabi a listing of the laboratory investigations and their goals, along with the amount of time expected to complete the lab work. For each lab, please designate whether the lab is student conducted (hands-on), virtual, or a teacher-led demonstration.

 Additional notes:

• A syllabus outlining the course of study for each Advanced Placement course must be submitted electronically to the AP Course Audit.
• Schools may administer AP exams without participating in the AP Course Audit, but cannot label courses AP without authorization through the AP Course Audit.

College Level Courses
Walters State Community College Dual Enrollment courses taught on our high school campuses are college level courses and will have points added to all grades used to calculate the semester average for the high school grade.

College level courses that are taught on college campuses for high school credit will also have four (4) points added to grades used to calculate the semester average for high school grade per state policy.

Additional High School Grading Requirements
Student schedule changes must be completed within five days after the start of each term. No schedule changes should be made after this five day period unless initiated by the classroom teacher and/or principal.

Students may repeat a course; however, only one unit of credit is allowed. The higher of the two grades will be used to compute the grade average point. 

Any final grade that is deemed necessary to be changed due to a student appeal must be changed no later than the last day of the next school term. The teacher who originally assigned the grade must initiate the change of grade. Any grade change must be reported in writing to the principal prior to the grade change. No final grade may be changed after the next school term has expired. At this point, if desired, the student must repeat the course to attempt to earn a high grade.

Any course for which an “incomplete” grade has been issued must be completed for a final grade no later than one school year (two terms) following the issuance of the “incomplete grade.”

A list of approved Honors and Advanced Placement courses will be updated annually and documentation will be filed at the Sevier County Board of Education in the Curriculum and Instruction Building.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

630 A ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GRADING SCALE

Last Updated Date: 08/08/2022

The Superintendent shall develop an administrative procedure to establish a system of grading and assessment[1]  for evaluating and reporting student progress in conjunction with Tennessee academic standards for grades K-8. The grading/assessment system shall follow all applicable statutes 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 Director of Schools shall have the authority to establish and operate ungraded and/or unstructured classes in grades K-3 according to state rules and regulations.¹

Student progress reports or other notification shall be provided to parent(s)/guardian(s) at scheduled intervals throughout the school year. The progress reports shall indicate the students’ conduct, attendance and academic progress, and other information necessary to communicate effectively with the parent(s)/guardian(s).

When a student’s academic performance or behavior significantly changes, the teacher shall, within a reasonable amount of time, inform the parent(s)/guardian(s), maintain a record of the contact (and/or attempted contact), and make an effort to have a conference with the parent(s)/guardian(s). Conduct grades are based on behavior and shall not be deducted from scholastic grades.

Standards-Based Grading Scale for Grades K-2

Progress for students in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade will be assessed through the use of a standards-based progress report card in the areas of English/Language Arts and mathematics. Each skill will be assessed for grade level mastery and assigned a level of expectation as outlined in the chart below.

Letter grades “E” (Excellent), “S” (Satisfactory), “N” (Needs Improvement), or “U” (Unsatisfactory) will be assigned for science, social studies, responsibility for learning, and when assigning progress in special areas (PE, art, music, library, and guidance) in kindergarten-second grade.

Numerical Grading Scale for Grades 3-8

Numerical grades, utilizing the uniform grading system established by the State Board of Education, will be used to record a student’s progress in alignment with Tennessee education standards in math, English language arts, social studies and science.

Grade Scale

90-100=A                 80-89=B                   70-79=C                   60-69=D                   Below 60=F

Letter Grading for Non-tested subjects for Grades 3-8

Letter grades “E” (Excellent), “S” (Satisfactory), “N” (Needs Improvement), or “U” (Unsatisfactory) will be used when assigning progress for handwriting in grade 3 and special areas (art, music, band, PE, library, guidance) in grades 3-8.

Policy References

1. TRR/MS 0520-01-03-.05(3), State Board of Education Policy 3.301; Public Acts of 2019, Chapter No. 248

600 - STUDENTS

631 PROMOTION, PLACEMENT & RETENTION

Last Updated Date: 08/12/2019

Promotion [1] 

A promotion is an elevation of a student from one grade level to a higher grade level, based upon a successful completion of a prescribed course of study. However, no student enrolled in the third grade shall be promoted unless the student has shown a basic understanding of curriculum and the ability to perform the skills required in the subject of reading as demonstrated by the student's grades or standardized test results. This requirement shall not apply to students who are participating in a board-approved, research-based intervention prior to the beginning of the next school year or to students who have an individualized education program (IEP). [2]

The classroom teacher and the principal shall closely monitor the progress of each student and notify the parents of any student who is at risk for retention. Such notification should be in the form of a parent-teacher conference preceded by a letter of invitation to the parent to visit the school to discuss the child's performance.
 

Students who have difficulty in achieving the requirements for promotion may be considered for retention. Starting in 2019-2020 school year, schools shall identify these students by February 1. Factors used to identify students for retention shall include:

1.  Ability to perform at the current grade level; 
2. Results of local assessments, screening, or monitoring tools; 
3. State assessments, as applicable; 
4. Overall academic achievement of the student; 
5. Likelihood of success with more difficult material if promoted to the next grade; 
6. Attendance record; and 
7. Social and emotional maturity.

Students may be identified for retention after the February 1st deadline if the delay in identifying a student is due to:

1.  Date of enrollment; 
2. Additional information acquired after results of local assessment, screening, or monitoring are released; or
3. Unexpected long-term illness

When a student is considered for retention, the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be notified within fifteen (15) calendar days, and an individualized promotion plan shall be developed to help the student avoid retention. The plan shall be developed in coordination with the student’s teachers and may also include input from the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s), school counselor, or other appropriate school personnel. A copy of the plan will be provided to the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s).

The Superintendent or designee shall develop procedures governing how decisions on retention will be made after the student begins work on his/her individualized promotion plan.
 

K – 3 Reading Notification

If it is determined through a student’s overall performance or a state or local assessment that a student in grades kindergarten through three (K-3) is not meeting grade-level standards in reading, the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be notified within fifteen (15) calendar days of such determination.

RETENTION
A student may be retained when such retention is in the best interest of the student. However, a student shall not be retained more than once in any grade.
 

If a student is retained, the school shall develop an individualized academic remediation plan prior to the start of the next school year. A copy of the plan shall be provided to the student’s parent/guardian within ten (10) calendar days of its development. This plan shall include at least one of the following strategies:

1. Adjustment to the current instructional strategies or materials; 
2. Additional instructional time; 
3. Individual tutoring outside of school hours; 
4. Modification to the student’s classroom assignment to ensure the student receives instruction from a teacher with a level of overall effectiveness of above expectations (level 4) or significantly above expectations (level 5); or 
5. Attendance or truancy interventions.

The Superintendent or designee shall develop procedures to ensure appropriate recordkeeping of students who are retained. For the purpose of determining the effectiveness of retention toward improving student achievement, the progress of retained students shall be closely monitored and reported to parent(s)/guardian(s) at least three (3) times during the school year in which the student is retained.

PLACEMENT
Placements are granted to those students that could not meet the general academic expectations for the class level of the particular individual. Placements will be utilized only after a principal, instructional supervisor, and teacher have a conference with the parent and arrives at a consensus that a placement is in the best interest of the child. If a consensus cannot be reached, the final decision rests with the teacher.
 

The transcripts of secondary transfer students from schools without block scheduling will be evaluated on an individual basis and the best match possible will be made.

[1] State Board of Education Policy No. 3.300; Tenn. R. & Regs. 0520-01-03-.05(3)(b).
[2] Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-3115.


 

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

632 STUDENT BEHAVIOR CODE

Last Updated Date: 09/10/2007

The purpose of this policy is to establish a clear and consistent hierarchy of punishment to enable the administration of the school and system to deal promptly and fully with students who violate school and system rules and regulations. It is also the purpose of this policy to establish a safe and orderly school environment in which the rights of all students are protected and the efforts of teachers to maintain order and teach students are supported. The hierarchy of punishment ranges from the less severe to the more severe, ultimately reaching the point where expulsion is recommended. The guiding principle of this and any other good system of school and classroom management is that its purpose is not to punish, but to teach and encourage students to accept responsibility for their actions and decisions, and to regard the rights of others with as much reverence as their own. While this policy is primarily for the high schools of the system, certain parts may be utilized by other schools as deemed appropriate.

Most referrals come from teachers as a result of a violation of their classroom discipline plans. In order for a student to be referred, one of two types of infractions would have occurred. Either the student would have committed a severe classroom disruption such as refusal to obey, fighting, vandalism, or any action which stops the class from functioning, or the student would have committed such violations of classroom rules that it interfered with the overall conduct of the classroom.

On the first referral, the student will be considered for loss of driving privileges (LDP), ALC placement, in-school suspension (ISS), out-of-school suspension (OSS), corporal punishment, or recommendation for expulsion depending upon the severity and nature of the offense. Additionally, the parent is contacted either by phone, conference, or a letter sent to the parent by regular mail. If the offense is severe, a parent conference will be required. If the parent refuses to participate, the student will be suspended out-of-school until such time as the parent does participate. The student will also be referred to a school counselor.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

633 EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Last Updated Date: 11/08/2021

The following guidelines will be followed in administering the school-sponsored extracurricular activities in Sevier County Schools:

• Each extracurricular activity must be under the guidance and direction of a staff member who is a full-time employee of the Sevier County School System;
• The principal, after obtaining the recommendation of the faculty, will determine which clubs, organizations, and athletic programs will be permitted;
• Each school principal or his/her designee shall supervise extracurricular activities before or after school hours;
• Students serving out-of-school suspensions will not be permitted to participate in extracurricular activities during suspension periods;
• For secondary athletics programs, the Board shall abide by any mandatory rules set forth by the Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association (TSSAA) and, thus, instructs that all employees adhere to those rules;
• State law now allows home school students to participate in TSSAA authorized sports; students must reside in Sevier County to try out and possibly participate in such athletic activities; other current TSSAA requirements must also be met, all of which may be found online at: https://tssaa.org/tssaa-home-school-rule.
• For seventh and eighth grade athletic programs, Sevier County Schools are now members of TMSAA and all employees and students must adhere to the standards as set forth by the TMSAA. In addition, BP 642 can be used as a guide.
• For purposes of participation in a middle school or high school[i] interscholastic[ii] athletic activity or event, a student's gender “must be determined by the student's sex at the time of the student's birth, as indicated on the student's original birth certificate.”[iii]
  • If a birth certificate provided by a student pursuant to this Policy does not appear to be the student's original birth certificate, or does not indicate the student's sex upon birth, then the student must provide other evidence indicating the student's sex at the time of birth. The student or the student's parent/guardian must pay any costs associated with providing the evidence required under this Policy.
• Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. .1681, et seq.) prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs like Sevier County Schools. Athletics and other extracurricular activities are considered an integral part of a public school system’s education program and are therefore covered by Title IX. Therefore, Sevier County Schools and its employees will continue to abide by any relevant legislation and controlling court precedent as they apply to responsibilities under Title IX.

Policy References

i As used herein, “high school” means a school in which any combination of grades nine through twelve (9-12) are taught. As used herein, “middle school” means a school in which any combination of grades five through eight (5-8) are taught. This Policy does not apply to students in any grade kindergarten through four (K-4).
ii Webster’s Dictionary defines “interscholastic activity” to mean: “existing or carried on between schools.”
iii Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-310(a).

600 - STUDENTS

634 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Last Updated Date: 03/20/2023

The graduation requirements for high schools in the Sevier County School System are 28 (twenty eight) units minimum. In these 28 units, students are required to meet state required core units (for example 4 units in English, etc.). Students must be enrolled in four credit courses each term. Students will develop a six-year plan that includes eight terms of attendance plus a two-year plan for postsecondary training.

Graduation Requirements

• Total 28 Credits
• 4 Credits English
  • 1 Credit English I
  • 1 Credit English II
  • 1 Credit English III
  • 1 Credit English IV
• *4 Credits Mathematics
  • 1 Credit Algebra I
  • 1 Credit Algebra II
  • 1 Credit Geometry
  • 1 Credit Mathematics course beyond Algebra I
    • Students must be enrolled in a mathematics course each school year.
• *3 Credits Science
  • 1 Credit Biology
  • 1 Credit Chemistry/Physics
  • 1 Credit Lab Science
• 1 Credit Lifetime Wellness
• **1 Credit Physical Education
• 4 Credits Social Studies
  • 1 Credit World History/Geography
  • 1 Credit American History/Geography
  • 1 Credit American Government (Requires all high school students to take and pass a United States civics test and participate in a project based assessment)
  • 1 Credit (Combined Economics and Personal Finance)
• ***1 Credit Fine Arts
• ***2 Credits World Language (same language)
• ****8 Credits Electives

*See math and science sequences in Board Policy 644.

**This requirement may be met by substituting a documented and equivalent time of physical activity in marching band, JROTC, cheerleading, interscholastic athletics, school sponsored intramural athletics, and other areas approved by the local board of education.

***This requirement may be waived for those students who are sure they are not going to attend a university and be replaced with courses required to enhance and expand the elective focus. A parent or guardian must sign the appropriate waiver form and submit it to the principal or his/her designee.

****Three of these courses must meet the program of study’s requirement for graduation.

Traditional High School Diploma Requirements

• To receive a traditional diploma, students enrolled in a Tennessee public school during their eleventh (11th) grade year shall take either the ACT or SAT test. Exception: Students who are not enrolled in a Tennessee public high school during their junior year are exempt from the ACT requirement per state policy.
• Per state requirements, all high school students must take and pass a United States civics test as a requirement for graduation.

Special Education High School Diploma

• Special education students who have not met the requirements for a traditional high school diploma and have satisfactorily completed an individual education plan (IEP) may receive a special education diploma at the end of their fourth (4^th) year of high school.  Students eligible for the special education diploma also must have satisfactory records of attendance and conduct.
• Students who obtain the special education diploma may continue to work toward a regular high school diploma through the end of the school year in which they turn twenty-two (22) years old.

Occupational High School Diploma

• Special education students who have not met the requirements for a traditional high school diploma, but have satisfactorily completed an individual education plan (IEP), completed the occupational diploma Skills, Knowledge, and Experience Mastery Assessment (SKEMA), and have completed two (2) years of paid or non-paid work experience may be awarded an occupational diploma at the end of the fourth (4th) year of high school. 
•  The determination that an occupational diploma is the goal for a student with a disability shall be made at the conclusion of the student’s tenth (10th) grade year or two (2) academic years prior to the expected graduation date.  In order to earn an occupational diploma, special education students must meet additional requirements as outlined by state policy.
• Students who obtain the occupational diploma may continue to work toward a regular high school diploma through the end of the school year in which they turn twenty-two (22) years old.

Alternate Academic High School Diploma

• An alternate academic diploma may be awarded at the end of the fourth (4th) year of high school to students with disabilities who have:
  • participated in the high school alternate assessments;
  • earned the prescribed twenty-two- (22) credit minimum, either through the state-approved standards or through alternate academic diploma modified course requirements approved by the State Board;
  • received special education services and supports and made satisfactory progress on an individualized education program
  • satisfactory records of attendance and conduct
  • completed a transition assessment(s) that measures, at a minimum, preparedness for postsecondary education and training, employment, independent living, and community involvement.
• Students who obtain the alternate academic diploma shall continue to be eligible for special education services under IDEA until he or she receives a traditional high school diploma or through the school year in which the student turns twenty-two (22).

Students may qualify for distinction or recognition based on one or more of the following criteria:

State Honors

• Students who score at or above all of the subject area readiness benchmarks on the ACT or equivalent score on the SAT may graduate with state honors.

District Distinction

• Students shall be recognized as graduating with district distinction if they have met the graduation requirements, have obtained an overall grade point average of at least a 3.0 or higher, and have earned an industry certification recognized by the Department of Education at the time the student earned it.

State Distinction

• Students may be recognized as graduating with “state distinction'' by attaining a B average or better and completing at least one of the following:
  • Earn an industry certification recognized by the Department of Education at the time the student earned it;
  • Participate in at least one of the Governor's Schools;
  • Participate in one of the state's ALL State musical organizations;
  • Earn statewide recognition or award at a skill- or knowledge-based state tournament, convention, or competition hosted by a statewide student organization, and/or qualify for national recognition by a national student organization;
  • Be selected as a National Merit Finalist or Semi-Finalist;
  • Attain a score of 31 or higher composite score on the ACT or SAT equivalent
  • Attain a score of 3 or higher on at least two advanced placement exams
  • Successfully complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme; or
  • Earn twelve (12) or more semester hours of postsecondary credit.

Seal of Biliteracy Recognition

• Students who have attained a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing in one (1) or more languages in addition to English along with additional requirements required by High School Policy 2.103 will be recognized with a Seal of Biliteracy.

Community Service Recognition

• Students who complete a minimum of 10 hours of community service per semester and provide appropriate documentation will be recognized during commencement ceremonies by a method to be determined by the school’s principal.

Work Ethic Distinction

• Students who meet the requirements to earn a Work Ethic Distinction and submit a completed application and documentation to the school counselor/designee will be recognized at their graduation ceremony.

Tri-Star Scholar

• A student who earns a composite score of nineteen (19) or higher on the ACT, or an equivalent score on the SAT, and earns a capstone industry credential (includes industry certification and a capstone experience within program of study) as promoted by the Department of Education, shall be recognized as a Tennessee Tri-Star Scholar upon graduation from high school.
• Students who fulfill the requirements of the Tennessee Work Ethic Distinction program will also receive recognition as a Tennessee Tri-Star scholar as identified in Public Chapter 702 TCA 49-6-60.

Industry 4.0 Diploma Distinction

• Students interested in pursuing an Industry 4.0 Diploma Distinction must provide the counselor or school principal with documentation signed by the student’s parent or legal guardian indicating that the parent or legal guardian is aware of the requirements for the student to obtain the diploma distinction and consenting to the student’s participation. Students must also register with a regional American Job Center (AJC) or other career counseling or community partner, known as a career coach, and enroll in work-based learning  or dual enrollment course for the student’s junior year. Additional requirements that must be met in order to earn the Industry 4.0 Diploma Distinction may be acquired through the student’s counselor, principal, or through State of Tennessee Public Chapter 946 TCA 49-6-4, or Industry 4.0 Diploma Distinction Overview and Requirements.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

635 POSTSECONDARY INSTITUTION VISITS

Last Updated Date: 08/08/2022

It is recognized that seniors may need to visit postsecondary institutions during the school year to discuss admission requirements, financial aid, and other items with officials. These visits will normally be limited to three school days and will be considered school-related activities.  Additionally, in the interest of preparing students for postsecondary educational options, one school day will be considered for juniors. For such visits, the following requirements must be met:

• The student must schedule the activity in advance through a school counselor.
• The school counselor will ensure that an appointment has been made with the appropriate officials at the university or college.
• The student should be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult.
• Upon return, the student must return documentation that the visit did occur.

Failure to adhere to these requirements will cause the absence to become unexcused.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

636 RE-ENTRY INTO SCHOOL

Considering the best interest of the individual student involved and the school to which he/she applied for admission, no student who has previously dropped out of school and has not been attending school since dropping out will be allowed to enroll in any school in the Sevier County School System except at the beginning of a semester.

Exceptions to this policy may be considered by the superintendent based upon parent or guardian request. The decision will be made based upon the merits of the student's individual situation.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

637 WITHHOLDING OF GRADES, TRANSCRIPTS, OR DIPLOMAS

Last Updated Date: 10/13/2014

State law allows the withholding of grades, grade cards, transcripts, or diplomas for failure to make restitution for damaged or lost textbooks, library books, and other school system materials. Grades, grade cards, transcripts, or diplomas may be withheld for failure to pay just debts such as charges in the cafeteria or failure to pay for damages such as those to school buses or lockers and other just debts owed to the school. Instead withholding grades, grade cards, transcripts or diplomas, the principal may refuse to issue additional text books to the student until restitution is made.

Principals must notify the parents in writing of his/her decision to withhold grades, grade cards, transcripts, and/or diplomas and allow them to make appropriate restitution. However, if the principal feels that the child is the victim of uncontrollable circumstances, then he/she may determine that any of the foregoing restitution methods are not appropriate in the situation.

If a student is transferring to another school system while still owing debts to the Sevier County School System, grades, grade cards, transcripts or diplomas may be withheld from the student and/or parent for failure to pay just debts as mentioned above. In addition, the principal may elect to (i) reduce the student’s grade in the course for which a damaged textbook is prescribed by one letter grade or ten percentage until restitution is made or (ii) prevent the student taking tests or exams, or earning course credit until restitution is made.

Principals must notify parents in writing of his/her decision. The principal may feel that the student is the victim of uncontrollable circumstances negating the necessity to seek remedy.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

638 WAIVER OF STUDENT FEES

Due to state law, students who receive free or reduced cost lunches are eligible for waivers of school-related fees.

School fees are defined as fees for activities that occur during the regular hours, fees for activities and supplies required to participate in all courses required for credit or grade, fees for a copy of the student's record, refundable security deposits, and fees or tuition applicable to courses taken by resident students for credit or grade in the summer.

School fees do not include fines imposed for lost textbooks, late returned library books, parking, abuse of school property, debts incurred, costs for extracurricular activities occurring outside the regular school day, etc.

Documentation if parent consent for the waiving of confidentiality on applications for free and reduced meals will be required.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

639 ADMISSION OF RESIDENT STUDENTS

Sevier County Schools shall be free to all persons who reside within the Sevier County School District. Any child, who is a resident of Sevier County and who meets the age requirements as outlined by state law [1] as verified by a certified birth certificate, may enter kindergarten provided they enter within thirty days after the opening of school. Current state law requires a kindergarten experience before the student is allowed to enter first grade.

A student may transfer into the school system at any time during the school year if the student’s custodial parent(s) or legal guardian moves his/her residence within the boundaries of the Sevier County.

Any student entering Sevier County Schools for the first time must present the following:

• Acceptable evidence of date of birth at time of registration; [2]
• A Tennessee Physical Form, evidencing that a physical examination was performed by a licensed health provider dated on or after January 1 of the calendar year of initial school entry. [3]
• A Tennessee Certificate of Immunization as proof of state-required immunization; [4] and
• Proof of legal residency in Sevier County, except as provided under Board Policy 649.

The legal residence of the student must be located in Sevier County. “Legal residence” is defined as the primary residence of the student’s custodial parent(s) or guardian(s).

Unless enrolled through Board Policy 650, students may not enter Sevier County Schools if they have been suspended or expelled by another public school system in Tennessee or any other state until such time that said suspension or expulsion has lapsed.

1 Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-3001.
2 Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-3008.
3 Tenn. Comp. Rules and Regs. § 0520-1-3-.02(2)(a).
4 Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-5001(c).

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

640 RECRUITING OF ELEMENTARY STUDENTS

Last Updated Date: 09/12/2022

The Sevier County Board of Education fully supports the TSSAA standards concerning the recruitment of elementary/junior high students by high school coaches or other school personnel. Inappropriate recruiting will not be tolerated. Coaches and other personnel are expected to adhere to the spirit, as well as the letter of TSSAA standards. Improper contact with elementary/junior high students or their parents is specifically forbidden. Inappropriate recruiting will be construed as insubordination and could result in the loss of coaching assignments in this school system.

Violation of the recruiting rule will cause TSSAA to declare the student ineligible at the school in violation and will result in a penalty placed against the violating school.

A representative of a member high school is allowed to meet with students at a school that is defined as a "feeder" school or meet with students that are zoned to attend the high school the following year. The visit must be cleared, in advance, by the principals of both the elementary or junior high schools and high schools.

In Sevier County, the following are feeder school situations:

Gatlinburg-Pittman Junior High School - Gatlinburg-Pittman High School

Jones Cove Elementary School  - Sevier County High School

New Center Elementary School - Sevier County High School

Pigeon Forge Junior High School - Pigeon Forge High School

Wearwood - Pigeon Forge High School

Northview Junior Academy - Northview Senior Academy

Sevierville Middle School - Sevier County High School

Seymour Junior High School - Seymour High School

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

641 IN-COUNTY TRANSFER OF STUDENTS INVOLVED IN TSSAA ATHLETICS

In the event that a student athlete transfers from one county high school to another high school within Sevier County, the principal of the gaining high school will notify the superintendent or designee to allow verification that a residence change has indeed occurred and that such a residence change meets the requirements of TSSAA standards. After appropriate investigation, the gaining principal will be notified of the findings that will allow the principal to proceed with the necessary paperwork to TSSAA stating the eligibility or non-eligibility of the student. If the student is not eligible, the principal will then notify the student and his/her parent or guardian.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

642 ELEMENTARY BASKETBALL

Last Updated Date: 06/02/2014

All elementary and middle schools with elementary basketball teams in Sevier County are members of the Tennessee Middle School Athletic Association (TMSAA) which is associated with TSSAA.

The individual schools will be placed in divisions/regions as determined by the TMSAA using the enrollment numbers of the schools.

The Director of Schools will appoint a middle grades athletic director for basketball. He/she will be responsible for coordination of the middle grades basketball program.

The principal or his/her designee will represent the school at meetings with the athletic director. Scheduling and similar matters will be concluded during said meetings.

As members of the TMSAA, each school is required to meet both the letter and the spirit of the TMSAA rules and regulations. Any questions concerning these rules and regulations will be forwarded to the athletic director who will consult with the TMSAA to obtain a final reading.

To participate in elementary grades basketball, a student must be enrolled in the school in which he/she will participate and be in good standing. All age, physical exam, and similar requirements of the TMSAA will be the standards that will be used in all situations. Practice times and schedules will be set to the standards of the TMSAA.

Middle grades basketball is primarily a sport for 7th and 8th grade students. The maximum number of players on a middle grades team is 15. Coaches may choose to have less than 15 players. Should a situation arise that enough 7th and 8th grade students choose not to participate, the principal of the school will contact the Director of Schools and seek permission to allow 6th graders to participate. If permission is granted, then tryouts for 6th grade students interested in playing will be held. At that time the coach may select 6th graders to participate with the understanding that teams are not allowed to have more than 15 players total. Remember that 7th and 8th grades students have the first option in order of participation. These students will not be cut to allow 6th graders to participate.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

643 ACQUIRED IMMUNE DEFICIENCY SYNDROME (STUDENT)

Students infected with HIV will not be denied enrollment in school. The Board will not prevent an HIV infected student from participating in the continuation of his/her education on the basis of HIV infection.

When a student in this school system has HIV or AIDS, the superintendent will convene an evaluation team composed of the student's parents/guardians, the student's physician if he/she elects to attend, a physician or nurse from the Public Health Department as designated by the regional health officer and a representative of the local education agency as designated by the superintendent. The evaluation team will evaluate and review the student's health status relative to attending school. The superintendent will be responsible for requesting medical records from the parent/guardian and a statement from the student's physician regarding the health status of a student reported to have HIV/AIDS. In addition, the superintendent will gather information regarding the student's cumulative school record. These records will be reviewed by the evaluation. The team will assume responsibility for determining when a student' medical condition warrants the student's removal from the classroom. For any child determined as warranting removal from the classroom due to medical reasons, the school system will be responsible for determining the appropriate educational program for the child. The parent/guardian will be included as part of the local decision-making process. Because HIV/AIDS infection is a progress disease, semi-annual medical and educational monitoring will be conducted by the evaluation team using the latest public health information.

No information concerning an HIV infected student will be divulged, directly or indirectly, to any other individual or group without the written consent of the parent/guardian. All medical information and written documentation of discussion, conversations, and proceedings will be kept by the superintendent in a locked file. If the HIV infected student is under the age of eighteen, access to this file will be granted only to those persons having written consent of the parent/guardian. Individuals will be informed of a student's HIV infection on a "need-to-know" basis, as decided by the evaluation with the written consent of the parent/guardian. No information will be released to the public identifying a student with HIV/AIDS.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

644 SECONDARY COURSE OFFERINGS AND MATH & SCIENCE SEQUENCES

Last Updated Date: 08/08/2022

600 - STUDENTS

645 FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENTS

Any foreign student is eligible for acceptance into the foreign exchange student program provided he/she is participating through an agency endorsed by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel and is sponsored by an individual or organization in Sevier County. Before approval by the Sevier County Board of Education, the exchange program representative must make written application on behalf of the student in the local school serving the host family. No foreign exchange student will be brought into the United States by the sponsor unless he/she has been accepted in writing as a student by the principal of the school in which he/she is to be enrolled. The school may accept the student after determining the following:

• The student will have a sufficient command of the English language to enable them to participate in the general curriculum;
• Appropriate curriculum offerings can be provided for the student; and
• An overcrowded situation will not be further aggravated.

Prior to enrolling a foreign student, the principal will require, in addition to a valid student visa, the following documentation:

• Citizenship;
• Birth date;
• Health/immigration records;
• Custody (including phone number, name, and address of person responsible for the student); and
• School records, including a transcript of academics (in English).

Admission requirements and all other considerations and expectations will be the same for foreign students as for United States students. Students will be accepted only in grades 9-12. No more than four (4) foreign exchange students and no more than two (2) students of the same nationality will be accepted in any one school.

Students must have had acceptable academic achievement in their native countries and must have been screened for maturity and ability to get the maximum benefit from an exchange program. Exchange students must have adequate command of the English language and be able to function without special assistance in regular classes. The principal will be responsible for assignment to the appropriate grade level.

Each school will name a faculty member as a student representative to serve as a liaison between the school and the exchange program agency and as an adviser to each exchange student.

The sponsoring individual/organization will provide evidence to the school that the student will receive adequate financial support for the duration of his/her stay. Exchange students will not be eligible for free or reduced-price lunches, nor will schools hold fund-raising events to pay expenses incurred by exchange students.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

646 MEAL CHARGE PROCEDURE

Last Updated Date: 01/30/2019

As provided in SP 46-2016, all school food authorities (SFAs) operating the federal school meal programs (National School Lunch Program and/or School Breakfast Program) must have a written and clearly communicated meal charge administrative procedure in place no later than July 1, 2017. All SFAs must have an administrative procedure in place for children participating at the reduced price or paid meal rate who either do not have money in their account or in hand to cover the cost of the meal at the time of service. SFAs are required to communicate that administrative procedure to families and school and/or district-level staff members as appropriate. SFAs should ensure the administrative procedure is communicated on an annual basis.
 

Families will have access to the meal charge administrative procedure via student handbooks, registration packets provided to each student at the start of the school year, and via the Sevier County School System website (www.sevier.org).

Local Charge Administrative Procedure Considerations

General
Students who are unable to pay for their meals at the time of the meal service are allowed to charge:

• Breakfast; and/or
• Lunch

Student Impact Due to Unpaid Lunchroom Charges

• No student will be denied a reimbursable breakfast or lunch due to lack of funds.
• No student with a lunchroom charge will be allowed to purchase a la carte (extra) foods (e.g., ice cream, extra items, etc.).
• Student report cards will be held as long as there is an unpaid charge.

Additional Penalties for Unpaid Lunchroom Charges Grades 5 and Above

• Students with unpaid charges will not be allowed to participate in high school graduation ceremonies.

Charge Limits

Charging meals is a courtesy extended to students only. There is no specific limit for number of meals charged.

Household Notification
Negative balance notification:

• For charges $5.00 and under, the cafeteria manager (or cashier) will discretely remind the student of any amount owed. Each Friday, a roster of charges will be given to the principal, along with a letter generated by the Point of Sale program to be given to the student.
• For charges $12.00 or more, the principal (or designee) will give the student a letter to take home to his/her parents. Phone calls, text messages, personal contacts (i.e. car riders) or e-mails may also be used. We do want to reach our parents, protect the children, and compensate the school system. If there is a problem, we need to be aware. Arrangements can be made for payment. And the school system is always open to considering true hardships.
• For charges $25.00 or more, the principal (or designee) will mail a letter to the parents along with a Free and Reduced Meal application and community resource guide of public assistance available in our community and a request for a meeting at the school.
• The principal or designee will be the point of contact with the parent. The designee could be an assistant principal or teacher who would take on this responsibility for the school in lieu of bus duty.
• Letters will be folded in an envelope in a manner in which others are not able to directly see the letter. The goal of this program is to seek just payment, while trying to avoid embarrassing any students or parents. 

Delinquent Debt
Delinquent debt is defined as overdue unpaid meal charges that are considered collectable, with efforts being made to collect them. The debt may remain on the accounting documents until it is either collected or determined to be uncollectable. The debt may be carried over at the end of the school year (beyond June 30).

The household’s debt will be delinquent once the charge amount reaches a total of $72.00. At this point, Sevier County School System will request payment via e-mail and/or U.S. Mail with a letter from the Central Office. The letter will be folded in an envelope in a manner in which others are not able to directly see the letter.

The Food Service Coordinator will compile and report all unpaid meal charges and delinquent debt to the Director of Finance and the Director of Schools every six weeks.

Repayment Plans
Each household may request a repayment plan that will include payment levels and due dates appropriate to a household’s particular circumstances. Please contact Lisa McMahan at 865-453-4671 or lisamcmahan@sevier.org for assistance with establishing a repayment plan. Again, the school system is open to hearing any concerns and working to account for true hardships.

Bad Debt
Bad debt is determined to be uncollectable, with that further collection efforts for delinquent debt deemed useless or too costly. Delinquent debt will be considered as bad debt upon student graduation or transfer to a school district other than Sevier County.

• Bad debts (debts which have been determined to be uncollectable), including losses (whether actual or estimated) arising from uncollectable accounts and other claims, are unallowable. Related collection costs, and related legal costs, arising from such debts after they have been determined to be uncollectable are also unallowable (Section 200.426, Subpart E).
• Bad debt will be written off as an operating loss; nonprofit school food service account (NSFSA) resources may not be used to cover the costs related to any bad debt. To comply with federal and state regulations, unpaid meal charges and any other related monies owed to the School Nutrition Program will be paid from funds other than those of the School Nutrition Program. The Food Service Coordinator will compile and report all unpaid meal charges and other bad debts to the Director of Finance and the Director of Schools prior to the end of each school year. Once delinquent meal charges are converted to bad debt, records relating to those charges must be maintained in accordance with record retention requirements in 7 CFR 210.9(b)(17) and 7 CFR 210.15(b).

Additional Resources
Families may find assistance with applying for free or reduced price schools meals by contacting Lisa McMahan at 865-453-4671 or lisamcmahan@sevier.org.

“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 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 complaint 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 any of the following:

Mail

U.S. Department of Agriculture
Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights
1400 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20250-9410

Fax

(202) 690-7442

Email

program.intake@usda.gov
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

647 SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR SEARCHES BY DRUG DETECTING DOGS

Last Updated Date: 09/12/2000

These instructions apply to situations in which contraband drugs are suspected of being contained in an unspecified locker or vehicle alleged to be located within a specified area of the school building or on school grounds. Nothing in these instructions will be construed to limit or otherwise affect the principal's authority to search suspected lockers or vehicles identified by means other than by drug detecting dogs.

The principal of a school, having a reasonable suspicion that contraband drugs may be contained in an unspecified school locker or a vehicle located within a specified area of the school or on school grounds, may request a controlled sweep search of the identified area by trained drug detecting dogs. The request to search will be made to the superintendent within an expedient time frame that will allow a timely response. The superintendent will contact the appropriate agency and request that search be made within the following guidelines:

• The principal is in charge of the search and the dog's handler will operate under the principal's jurisdiction while on school grounds.
• The search will be conducted that allows for a true chain of evidence while protecting the due process rights of students and staff.
• The principal will set the time for the search and notify the school personnel that will assist in the search.
• School personnel and/or security officers may be used to block access to the search area.
• The dog handler will work the dog(s) as rapidly as possible identifying any locker or vehicle containing illegal drugs. The locker(s) or vehicle(s) will be marked for identification. Upon completion of the search by the dog(s), the dog handler and dog will exit the school grounds. School personnel will stand by each identified locker or vehicle until the principal is able to summon the student(s) responsible for the identified locker(s) or vehicle(s) if the student(s) is known and present at school. The student(s) will be requested to open the locker or vehicle. If the requested is refused by the student or the student is unknown or not present, the principal may forcibly enter the locker or vehicle.
• If contraband is found, the principal will document it as to locker number or vehicle license number, the name of the student (if known), the time and date, the location of the contraband in locker or vehicle, what the contraband is believed to be, and how it is packaged. The contraband will then be placed in a clear plastic bag and marked with the time, date, student's name, school, and finder's name. The superintendent will request assistance from law enforcement officials to identify the contraband.
• Upon confirmation of the illegal nature of a substance located under these guidelines, the principal will proceed according to instructions listed for drug abuse.

Assistant principals or other designees may serve in the place of principals for the purposes of this search. TCA-6-4204

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

648 HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION, BULLYING OR CYBERBULLYING

Last Updated Date: 08/08/2022

Sevier County students will be provided a learning environment free from sexual, racial, ethnic, gender, national origin or religious based discrimination, intimidation, harassment, bullying or cyberbullying. It will be a violation of this policy for any employee, volunteer, parent or student to discriminate, harass, bully or cyberbully a student for any reason (complaints of disability discrimination, harassment, bullying, cyberbullying and/or retaliation remain governed by Board Policy 016). All school system employees and volunteers are required to report alleged violations of this policy to a building level administrator or the Director of Student Services.

This policy will be published in parent/student handbooks distributed annually to every student. Building level administrators are also responsible for education and training of their respective staffs and students as to the definition and recognition of discrimination, harassment, bullying, intimidation and cyberbullying.

Definitions

Harassment, intimidation or bullying means any act that substantially interferes with a student's educational benefits, opportunities or performance; and:

• If the act takes place on school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided equipment or transportation or at any official school bus stop, the act has the effect of:
  • • Physically harming a student or damaging a student's property;
    • Knowingly placing a student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student's property;
    • Causing emotional distress to a student or students; or
    • Creating a hostile educational environment; or
• If the act takes place off school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity, this policy is in effect if it is directed specifically at a student or students and has the effect of creating a hostile educational environment or otherwise creating a substantial disruption to the education environment or learning process.

Cyberbullying means bullying as described above undertaken through the use of electronic devices. Electronic devices include, but are not limited to, telephones, cellular phones or other wireless telecommunication devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), computers, mobile device applications, electronic mail, instant messaging, social media services, text messaging, and web sites. The Sevier County Board of Education will not tolerate cyberbullying on school grounds or via school-provided equipment, devices or accounts. The Board will also not tolerate cyberbullying off school grounds if it is directed specifically at a student(s) and has the effect of creating a hostile educational environment or otherwise creating a substantial disruption to the educational environment or learning process.

Complaints
Any parent or student may complain of harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying to a teacher, counselor, administrator or directly to the Director of Student Services. A student’s parent(s) or legal guardian will be informed immediately if their student is involved in an act of intimidation, harassment, bullying or cyberbullying. The student’s parent or legal guardian will be informed of the availability of counseling and support services necessary for the student. Any complaint or report will be fully investigated by either a building level administrator or someone designated by the Director of Student Services within forty-eight (48) hours of receiving any complaint or report.

If additional time to fully investigate the Complaint or report is necessary, the investigating party will document that need and reasons therefore in the investigation. After reviewing and investigating a complaint, the administrator or designee will make a determination as to whether discrimination, harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying occurred. When investigating and reviewing a complaint, the administrator or designee should – whenever possible – consider credibility, documentary/tangible evidence and interviews of the complainant, the accused and necessary third-party witnesses. The administrator or designee will provide a copy his/her determination in writing to the Director of Student Services.

There will be no retaliation against any person who makes a good faith complaint/report under this policy. However, any student or employee who provides false information may be subject to disciplinary action. The knowing filing of a false complaint/report will itself be considered harassment and will be treated as such by the school system. Any employee who refuses to cooperate during an investigation under this policy may be subject to disciplinary action based on insubordination and neglect of duty.

Protections
The school system will strive to protect the privacy/anonymity of all parties and witnesses to complaints under this policy. Because an individual’s need for privacy must be balanced with obligations to cooperate with police investigations and/or legal proceedings, however, the identity of parties and witnesses may be disclosed in appropriate circumstances to individuals with an actual need to know. In the event the investigator deems it necessary, the investigator will refer a student involved in an act of harassment, intimidation, bullying, or cyberbullying to appropriate counseling and support services.

Actions
If an administrator or designee determines that discrimination, harassment, intimidation, bullying or cyberbullying occurred (i.e. the complaint is more likely to be true than not true), he/she must either take disciplinary action or recommend that the Director of Schools take disciplinary action within twenty (20) calendar days from the receipt of the complaint or report. If additional time to make a determination is necessary, the investigating party will document that need and reasons therefore in the investigation. A substantiated charge against an employee will result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. A substantiated charge against a student will result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension/expulsion.

Policy Review and Changes
Any and all changes to this policy shall be submitted to the Tennessee Commissioner of Education. HB2166/SB 2416

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

649 ADMISSION OF NON-RESIDENT STUDENTS

Last Updated Date: 08/12/2019

Except as provided in this Policy or Board Policy 603, students residing outside of Sevier County are not eligible to attend Sevier County Schools. A “non-resident student” is a student whose legal residence is located outside of Sevier County. “Legal residence” is defined as the primary residence of the student’s custodial parent(s) or guardian(s).

Exceptions

The limitations set forth above do not apply to the following types of non-resident students:

1.  Children of Sevier County School Employees

• If an employee of Sevier County Schools resides outside Sevier County, the children of that employee may attend Sevier County Schools. If employment with Sevier County Schools ends, the children may complete the current school year in Sevier County Schools.

2.  Caregiver Residing in Sevier County Acting Under Power of Attorney for Care of a Minor Child

• Through a power of attorney for care of a minor child, a caregiver residing in Sevier County may enroll the minor child in Sevier County Schools.
   
• The caregiver shall have the right to enroll the child in Sevier County Schools if the power of attorney states that the parent/guardian is unable to care for the child due to one or more of the following hardships:

• • • Serious illness or incarceration of the parent/guardian;
    • Physical or mental condition of parent/guardian/child is such that care and supervision of the child cannot be provided; or
    • the loss or uninhabitability of the child’s home as the result of a natural disaster.
       
• If the hardship is not one of the three specified above, Sevier County Schools may, at the discretion of the Director of Schools or his/her designee, enroll a student with a properly executed power of attorney on a case-by-case basis. Prior to enrollment, school administrators may require documentation of the minor child’s residence with a caregiver or documentation to verify the validity of any stated hardship.

3. Homeless Students

• Homeless students shall be enrolled and provided educational services in accordance with state and federal law including, but not limited to, the McKinney-Vento Education Assistance Improvements Act of 2001 Subtitle B §§ 721-725.

4. Children in Custody of the State of Tennessee Department of Children's Services

• Children whose parents/guardians reside outside of Sevier County who are placed in Sevier County by DCS remain eligible for enrollment subject to the provisions of Board Policy 650.

5. Children Of Service Members Who are Relocated to Tennessee

• Children who are the natural child, stepchild, or adopted child of a member of the United States armed forces who is engaged in active military service who do not reside within Sevier County may enroll in Sevier County Schools if:
  • • The student is a dependent child of an active military service member who is being relocated to the State of Tennessee on military orders and will, upon relocation, be a resident of Sevier County; but will not be a resident of Sevier County during its typical enrollment period; and
    • Within sixty (60) days of the student’s relocation, the active service member provides Sevier County Schools with documentation evidencing that the student is the dependent child of the service member and that the service member is being relocated to the State of Tennessee on military orders and will, upon relocation, be a resident of Sevier County.

Except as provided in this policy, if the school system enrolls an out-of-state resident, the school system will also enforce compliance with Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-403(f).

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

650 PROCEDURE FOR ENROLLMENT OF STUDENTS IN CUSTODY OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN'S SERVICES

Last Updated Date: 11/04/2013

The following placement procedures shall govern the enrollment of eligible students in Tennessee Department of Children’s Services (DCS) custody in Sevier County Schools.

1. The Administrative Policies and Procedures set forth Chapter 21 of the State of Tennessee Department of Children’s Services will serve as guiding documents to enrollment protocol in Sevier County Schools.

2. Youth Residing in Sevier County Placed in a Non-Traditional Educational Setting.

Youth who have documented treatment needs that would interfere with public school attendance are not eligible for enrollment in Sevier County Schools.

• In accordance with DCS Policy 21.20, youth placed into an in-house educational program may remain in that educational setting for up to thirty days. Prior to the expiration of that time period, a Child and Family Team Meeting (CFTM) must be convened to address the youth’s educational placement.
   
• The agency/facility where the youth is residing shall provide reasonable advance notice to Sevier County Schools of all CFTM meetings regarding educational placement. If the agency/facility fails to provide reasonable advance notice of the CFTM to the school system, and a consensus is reached to enroll the youth in Sevier County Schools, the school system reserves the right to reconvene the CFTM prior to enrolling the youth in Sevier County Schools.
   
• At least three working days prior to any CFTM regarding educational placement, the agency/facility shall provide the youth’s records to the school system’s liaison for evaluation. Records will include, but not be limited to, the youth’s Education Passport, Educational Placement Evaluation, birth certificate, immunization records, current and complete academic transcripts, current withdrawal grades, Section 504 Plan or IEP with eligibility and psycho-educational records, and/or any other special education records, a completed school enrollment card, disciplinary reports from previous schools, and specific information about juvenile charges as well as behavioral information about incidents since and during placement at the agency/facility. Information on the reason for DCS custody (as it would impact public school participation), as well as the date for the possible discharge from agency/facility, will also be provided.
   
• Sevier County Schools shall be represented at all CFTMs regarding educational placement of youth in DCS custody residing in Sevier County. The school system shall be represented by the its liaison and the potential receiving principal and his/her designee, as well as other school personnel deemed appropriate by the liaison.
   
• During the CFTM, a consensus should be reached regarding most appropriate educational setting to best meet the needs of the youth. The DCS Protocol for Assessing Educational Stability shall serve as guidance in making this determination. If the consensus indicates continuing services in the alternative setting, the team will document treatment reasons for this decision. If no consensus is reached, the CFTM will reflect agreement or disagreement to proposed enrollment in public school by representatives of the school system at the meeting.
   
• Placement decisions will be made in the best interest of the youth. Sevier County Schools recognizes transition to the public school setting may necessitate a period of adjustment prior to actual enrollment. The CFTM team (DCS representatives, agency/facility representatives, and the school system’s liaison and representatives) must agree that the youth is ready for placement in a relevant school setting. A ready-to-enroll form will be provided to the school system prior to enrollment.

3.  Procedure for Enrollment of Eligible Youth

• The agency/facility shall notify Sevier County Schools as far in advance as possible prior to enrolling an eligible youth in the school system.
   
• Upon enrollment, DCS or the agency/facility shall provide the school system with a copy of the youth’s Education Passport and a School Enrollment Letter. The Education Passport shall include the following information: demographic information, additional school enrollment information, school disciplinary records, state mandated achievement test scores, immunization records, most recent grade card and attendance data, current transcript for high school students, any special education, Section 504, or TEIS records.
   
• If a disability is suspected and the youth has not been previously identified, DCS or the agency/facility shall make an immediate written referral to the school system for an evaluation for special education eligibility. Referral forms may be obtained from the school system.
   
• Following enrollment, DCS and the agency/facility will communicate with the school system’s liaison to establish the type of working relationship that allows the youth to succeed. For each individual youth, the agency/facility shall be responsible for monitoring academic performance and behavioral issues, so that the agency/facility where the youth is placed can provide educational supports, which are complimentary to the public school program.
   
• If at any time following enrollment, the school system forms a reasonable belief that the youth is exhibiting treatment needs that may interfere with public school attendance, the district shall notify the agency/facility who shall contact DCS to schedule a CFTM to reevaluate the youth’s educational setting. Sevier County Schools shall be represented at all such CFTM meetings, which shall be held within two weeks following the school system’s request.
  
  The requested CFTM shall be held within two weeks following the school system’s request and Sevier County Schools shall be represented at all such CFTMs. All recommendations and action steps for the CFTM members, including those of the school system representative(s) in attendance, shall be documented on DCS form CS-0757, in accordance with DCS Policy 21.14 (B)(4).
   
• In addition to the circumstances set forth in subsection (e), the school system may request that a CFTM be convened to address school issues in the following circumstances:
  
  a.  The youth is experiencing significant behavioral and/or academic problems;
  b.  The youth is not attending school regularly; and/or
  c.  The youth is transitioning from school to school.
  
  The requested CFTM shall be held within two weeks following the school system’s request and Sevier County Schools shall be represented at all such CFTMs. All recommendations and action steps for the CFTM members, including those of the school system representative(s) in attendance, shall be documented on DCS form CS-0757, in accordance with DCS Policy 21.14 (B)(4).
   
• DCS shall comply with DCS Policy 21.18 regarding mandatory notification to school principals of certain delinquency adjudications.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

651 STUDENT SURVEYS

Last Updated Date: 11/03/2014

Surveys for research purposes shall be allowed by the Sevier County Board of Education (“Board”) when the project is viewed as contributory to greater understanding of the teaching-learning process, the project does not violate the goals of the Board, and the disruption of the regular school program is minimal. Surveys conducted for agencies, organizations, or individuals must have the recommendation of the Director of Schools and the approval of the Board as to content and purpose.

The Director of Schools or his/her designee shall develop administrative procedures for approving requests for conducting surveys. The requests shall outline what is to be done, who is to be involved, and how the results will be used and distributed.

Upon request, the parent or legal guardian of a student enrolled in the district or a student enrolled in the district (if 18 or older), has the right to review all surveys, analyses or evaluations, prior to being administered to the parent or legal guardian’s child. If the student (if 18 or older)k, parent, or legal guardian finds the survey, analysis, or evaluation objectionable, the parent, legal guardian, or student (if 18 or older) shall be entitled to opt their student out of participation in the survey, analysis, or evaluation.

In the event such survey, analysis, or evaluation requires the collection of student biometric data, parental consent shall be required before the collection of such biometric data.

In addition, the district shall disclose to the parent, legal guardian, or student (if 18 or older), upon request, the purpose of the survey, analysis, or evaluation and who will have access to the results.
 

Parents shall have the right to inspect all instructional material that will be used for a survey, analysis, or evaluation as part of a federal program. No student may, without parental consent, take part in a survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information covering:

• Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;
• Sex behavior or attitudes of the student or others;
• Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, drug-related, or demeaning behavior;
• Critical appraisals of individuals with whom students have family relationships;
• Legally privileged relationships, including but not limited to, medical providers, counselors, and the like;
• Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent

Neither the Board nor its agents will collect, disclose, or use personal student information for the purpose of marketing or selling that information or otherwise providing that information to others for that purpose.

The District shall not administer a survey, analysis, or evaluation that collects individual student data on political affiliation, religion, voting history, or firearms ownership.

This portion of the policy does not apply to the collection, disclosure or use of personal information collected from students for the exclusive purpose of developing, evaluating, or providing educational products or services for or to students or educational institutions to the extent allowed by law, such as the following:

• College or other postsecondary education recruitment or military recruitment;
• Book clubs, magazines, and programs providing access to low-cost literary products;
• Tests and assessments used by elementary schools and secondary schools to provide cognitive, evaluative, diagnostic, clinical, aptitude, or achievement information about students (or to generate other statistically useful data for the purpose of securing such tests and assessments) and the subsequent analysis and public release of the aggregate data from such tests and assessments;
• The sale by students of products or services to raise funds for school-related, extracurricular-related, or education-related activities; or
• Student recognition programs.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

652 HAZING

The school system defines "hazing" to mean any intentional or reckless act, on or off Sevier County Board of Education property, by one (1) student acting alone or with others, that is directed against any other student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student or that induces or coerces a student to endanger that student's mental or physical health or safety. This policy focuses on those actions taken and situations created in connection with initiation into or affiliation with any school-sponsored or school-affiliated group/team. "Hazing" does not include customary athletic events or similar contests or competitions.

The Sevier County Board of Education expressly prohibits “hazing” as it is defined above. The school system shall distribute or make available this policy to each student at the beginning of each school year. During the first month of each new school year, time shall also be set aside to specifically discuss the policy and its ramifications as a criminal offense and the penalties that may be imposed by the school system. Any students found to have violated this policy will face disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, suspension or expulsion. Any employees found to have violated this policy will also face disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, reprimand, suspension or dismissal.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

653 PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS IN FOSTER CARE

Last Updated Date: 08/12/2019

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) contains key protections for students in foster care that are designed to promote school stability, student success, and collaboration between local education agencies (LEAs) and child welfare agencies.

The Sevier County School System shall provide all students in foster care, to include those awaiting foster care placement, with a free and appropriate public education. Students in foster care, to include those awaiting foster care placement, shall be immediately enrolled, even if the student is unable to produce records normally required for enrollment (i.e. academic records, immunization records, health records, proof of residency). Placement shall be determined based on the student’s best interest. At all times, a strong presumption that keeping the student in the school of origin is in the student’s best interest shall be maintained.

The district has clear written procedures governing transportation to maintain children in foster care in their school of origin when in their best interest for the duration of time in foster care.

Definitions
“Foster Care” is defined as 24 hour substitute care for children placed away from their parents or guardians for whom the child welfare agency has placement and care responsibility.
“School of origin” is the school in which the student was enrolled at the time of placement in foster care. If a child’s foster care placement changes, the school of origin would then be considered the school in which the child was enrolled at the time of the placement change.

Point of Contact
Upon a student coming into custody or upon a student changing placement while in custody, the DCS Child and Family Team (CFT) will discuss if it is in the best interest of the student to remain in the school of origin. If the team believes that the student should remain in the school of origin, the DCS Point of Contact (the Education Specialist) will notify the Point of Contact for school system to arrange a Best Interest Determination Meeting. This is part of the collaborative process of ESSA and must take place. A description of the process is provided below. NOTE: Only the Education Specialist should contact the school system regarding keeping students in the school of origin. The county school system is not expected to communicate with foster parents, parents, family service workers, etc. at the onset of this process.

Best Interest Determination Process
The DCS Education Specialist will notify the point of contact of the LEA if there is a student who DCS would like to keep in the school of origin, but who will no longer be living in that school’s transportation zone. At that point the school system and DCS can schedule a best interest determination team meeting within 5 school days that includes:

1. The DCS point of contact (DCS POC);
2. The LEA point of contact (LEA POC);
3. The educational decision maker for the child or youth; DCS will contact the birth parent)
4. The school principal of designee; and
5. Any other key partners for decision making.

At this meeting, the Best Interest Determination Form will be completed.

When determining placement, student-centered factors including, but not limited to, the following shall be considered:

1. Preferences of the student;
2. Preferences of the student’s parent(s) or education decision maker(s);
3. The student’s attachment to the school, including meaningful relationships with staff and peers;
4. Placement of the student’s siblings;
5. Influence of the school climate on the student, including safety;
6. The availability and quality of the services in the school to meet the student’s educational needs;
7. History of school transfers and how they have impacted the student;
8. How the length of the commute would impact the student;
9. Whether the student is receiving special education and related services, and if so, the availability of those required services in a school other than the school of origin; and
10. Whether the student is an EL and is receiving language services, and, if so, the availability of those required services in a school other than the school of origin.

Transportation costs will not be considered when determining a student’s best interest. ESSA mandates school stability and transportation necessary to ensure school stability until students exit foster care. If the team decides it is in the best interest of the student to remain in the school of origin, then the student will be allowed to remain. Transportation to the school of origin should then be discussed by the team.

Transportation Procedures and Timelines
For students remaining in the school origin, the county school system will ensure that children in foster care needing transportation to the school of origin will promptly receive transportation within 5 days of the best interest determination meeting when minimal or no “additional costs” are involved and in accordance with §475(4)(A) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 675(4)(A). During the best interest determination process (5 school days) and the development of the LEAs permanent transportation plan (5 school days), DCS will provide transportation to the school of origin for the student if there are additional costs to the LEA and/or permanent arrangements need to be made. DCS is solely responsible for transportation for a maximum of 10 school days. If there are additional costs incurred in providing transportation to the school of origin for children in foster care, the ESSA specifies that the County School System will provide transportation if:

• The child welfare agency agrees to reimburse the district for the cost of such transportation;
• The district (LEA) agrees to pay the cost of such transportation; or
• The district and the child welfare agency agree to share the cost of such transportation.

If the team decides it is not in the best interest of the student to remain in the school of origin, DCS will enroll the student in the new school. If this school is in the same LEA as the school of origin, the child will be enrolled immediately. Transportation needs and possible costs for a student in foster care will be documented on the Transportation to the School of Origin form.

Transportation Options with Minimal or No Additional Cost
Multiple factors will be considered and addressed in the BID when determining transportation options for foster care students, including: safety for the student and other students being transported; student age; length of commute; and distance. Information from the school of origin transportation designee about these factors will be provided so that the BID will be comprehensive and will include consideration of cost-effective measures.

The following minimal or no additional costs options will be considered to provide school of origin transportation:

1. Foster parents or other family member(s) to transport the child to school.
2. Case worker to transport the child to school.
3. An existing bus route can be used.
4. An existing bus route can be modified slightly to accommodate the new address.
5. Specialized transportation offered to other students can be accessed.
6. The child welfare agency should explore options outside of those provided by the LEA, such as reimbursing the foster parents for transportation costs, or including transport in contracts with licensed child placing agencies or group homes.

Additional Costs
Non-Regulatory Guidance defines “additional costs” as “the difference between what an LEA otherwise would spend to transport a student to his or her assigned school and the cost of transporting a child in foster care to his or her school of origin. If the transportation would require “additional costs” from the LEA, the agencies must determine the most cost-effective strategy in each case. Considerations in making this calculation will include:

• a determination of the circumstances in which the LEA typically provides transportation to students; 
• identification of whether the student in foster care is eligible for transportation from the LEA for some other reason, such as having a disability; 
• identification of how the LEA calculates a standard cost of transportation for students who are not otherwise eligible for transportation, in order to calculate additional costs; and
• understanding of how the LEA estimates administrative costs involved in the logistics of providing transportation, such as additional staff time in coordinating transportation and informing other students on the bus when new bus stops change pick-up and drop-off times.

*NOTE: DCS representatives (including the education specialists) do not have the authority to approve expenditures for transportation. In keeping with DCS policy, any transportation plan proposed that may include costs to DCS must be approved by the Regional Administrator or designee.

Dispute Resolution for Best Interest and/or Transportation

Dispute Resolution
If the school level representative and the child welfare agency designated to make a determination do not agree on the child’s best interest for school placement or who will pay the additional costs for transportation, the Dispute Resolution Team should be convened. A Dispute Resolution Process -Best Interest Determination form and/or a Dispute Resolution Process-Transportation form should be completed at the meeting. Team members should include members of the school system and DCS to include the following individuals:

DCS Director of Education
DCS Point of Contact
DCS Central Office Consultant
LEA Point of Contact
Other LEA Team Member(s)

The LEA Point of Contact and the DCS Point of Contact will notify the dispute resolution team members of their respective agencies within two school days of a referral. The dispute resolution team will meet within two school days of the notification. Meetings may take place in person or via phone, computer, etc.

The student shall remain in the school of origin until the dispute reaches its final resolution. The student shall be provided with all appropriate educational services for which the student is eligible during the dispute resolution process. Students attending their school of origin during the dispute resolution process will be entitled to receive transportation. DCS will provide transportation for a maximum of ten (10) school days during the best interest determination and during pending arrangements by the LEA for transportation. If the ten (10) day limit has not been met, DCS will provide transportation to the school of origin until the time limit expires. The LEA will then provide transportation to the school of origin until the dispute is settled. Once the dispute is resolved, transportation will be provided pursuant to the local transportation procedures developed collaboratively between the LEA(s) and local child welfare agencies.

Legal References

1. Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by ESSA (Pub. L. 114-95) § 1111(g)(1)(E)(ii)-(iii)
2. Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by ESSA (Pub. L. 114-95), § 1111 (g)(1)(E)(i)-(iv)
3. Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by ESSA (Pub. L. 114-95), § 1111 (g)(1)(E)

4. Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by ESSA (Pub. L. 114-95), § 1112 (c)(5); § 475(4)(A) of the Social Security Act, 42 U.S.C. § 675(4)(A)
5. Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by ESSA (Pub. L. 114-95), § 1112 (c)(5)(B)(i)


 

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

654 SUICIDE PREVENTION POLICY

Last Updated Date: 08/08/2022

Sevier County Schools is committed to protecting the health and well-being of all students and understands that physical, behavioral, and emotional health are integral components of student achievement. Students are strongly encouraged to report if they, or a friend, are feeling suicidal or in need of help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) will be printed on any school-issued identification card moving forward (if utilized), and other resources will be provided to students and posted around campuses.  HB2062/SB2510

Prevention
All district employees shall attend either (1) the annual in-service training in suicide prevention or (2) participate in other equivalent training approved by the director of schools. The training shall include, but not be limited to, identification of risk factors, warning signs, intervention and response procedures, referrals, and postvention.

The director of schools shall identify a district suicide prevention coordinator responsible for planning and coordinating the implementation of this policy. Each school principal shall designate a school suicide prevention coordinator to act as a point of contact in each school for issues relating to suicide prevention and policy implementation.

Intervention
Any employee who has reason to believe that a student is at imminent risk of suicide shall report such belief to the principal or designee. Belief that a student is at imminent risk of suicide shall include, but not be limited to, the student verbalizing the desire to commit suicide, evidence of self-harm, or a student self-refers.

Upon notification, the principal or designee shall ensure the student is placed under adult supervision. Emergency medical services shall be contacted immediately if an in-school suicide attempt occurs. The principal or designee shall contact the district suicide prevention coordinator as soon as practicable.

Prior to contacting the student's parent/guardian, the school’s suicide prevention coordinator shall determine if there could be further risk of harm resulting from parent/guardian notification. If parent/guardian notification could result in further risk of harm or endanger the health or well-being of the student, then local law enforcement or the Department of Children's Services shall be contacted.

If appropriate, the school’s suicide prevention coordinator shall contact the student's parent/guardian and provide the following information:

• Inform the parent/guardian that there is reason to believe the student is at risk of suicide;
• Assure the parent/guardian that the student is currently safe or inform the parent/guardian that emergency medical services were contacted;
• Ask the parent/guardian whether he/she is aware of the student's mental state;
• Ask the parent/guardian whether he/she wishes to obtain or has obtained mental health counseling for the student;
• Provide the names of community mental health counseling resources if appropriate.

The school’s suicide prevention coordinator will seek parental permission to communicate with outside mental health care providers regarding a student. If the student is under the age of 16 and the parent/guardian refuses to seek appropriate assistance, the district suicide prevention coordinator shall contact the Department of Children's Services. [2]

The school’s suicide prevention coordinator shall document the contact with the parent/guardian by recording:

• The time and date of the contact;
• Timeline of events leading up to the contact;
• The individual contacted;
• The parent/guardian's response;
• Time and date of the student’s release to an authorized individual; and
• Anticipated follow-up and proposed safety plan.

The school’s suicide prevention coordinator shall ensure the student is under adult supervision until a parent/guardian or other authorized individual accepts responsibility for the student's safety. When possible, the safety coordinator will work with a parent/guardian on the safety plan as outlined below.

Prior to a student returning to school, the district suicide prevention coordinator and/or principal shall meet with the student's parent/guardian, and student if appropriate. The parent/guardian shall provide documentation from a mental health care provider stating that the student has received care and is no longer a danger to themselves or others. The parties will develop a safety plan, and the principal will identify an employee to check in with the student to ensure the student's safety and address any problems with re-entry.

Postvention
Immediately following a student suicide death, the Crisis Team shall meet and implement the Crisis Management plan. At a minimum, the Crisis Management plan shall address the following:

• Verification of death;
• Preparation of postvention response to include support services;
• Informing faculty and staff of a student death;
• Informing students that a death has occurred;
• Providing information on the resources available to students;

The Crisis Team shall work with teachers to identify the students most likely to be impacted by the death in order to provide additional assistance and counseling if needed. Additionally, staff and faculty will immediately review suicide warning signs and reporting requirements. The district’s public information officer shall be responsible for all media inquiries.
 

Policy References

[1] Tenn. Code Ann. § 49-6-1902.
[2] Tenn. Code Ann. § 37-1-403.

600 - STUDENTS

655 COURSE ACCESS PROGRAMS

Last Updated Date: 08/08/2022

Students enrolled in Sevier County Schools, in grades nine through twelve (9-12) are eligible to participate in the course access program.HB1850/SB2887

To be eligible to participate, the Student must meet the following requirements:

1.  The student must meet all the prerequisite requirements for the course access course; and 
2. The student is unable to enroll in a comparable course at the student’s school in Sevier County because either:
   1. A comparable course is not offered; or 
   2. A legitimate situation exists that prevents the student from enrolling in a comparable course.

Students with disabilities shall not be precluded from enrollment in a course access course based on their disabilities. Prior to the enrollment of a student with a disability into a course access course, the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) team or Section 504 team should meet to review the student’s IEP or 504 plan to identify any additional services, accommodations, modifications, or assistive technology that may be needed to ensure equitable access in the course access course in order to ensure the provision of a free appropriate public education (FAPE).

Sevier County Schools shall only be responsible to pay the required tuition and fees to the host local education agency for the first two (2) course access courses in which the student enrolls each school year. The student shall be responsible for all required tuition and fees for all courses in excess of two (2) per school year.

Sevier County Schools may disapprove an eligible student’s enrollment in a course access course if:

1.  The student does not meet the prerequisite requirements for the course; 
2. A comparable course is offered and available to the student in Sevier County Schools; 
3. The eligible student's enrollment in the course access course would exceed the requirements for a normal full course load in Sevier County Schools; or 
4. Participation in the course access course is not logistically possible. 

APPEAL PROCESS
In the event Sevier County Schools disapproves an eligible student’s enrollment in a course access course, the Director of Schools or his/her designee shall inform the student and hi/her parents or legal guardians of their right to appeal the decision to the Board of Education. Within ten (10) days of receipt of the disapproval of the student’s course access course application, the parent and/or student must submit the appeal of the decision in writing to the Director of Schools. The Director of Schools will then ensure that the appeal is placed on the next regularly scheduled Board meeting so that the parent and/or student can present the reason for the appeal. The Director of Schools or his/her designee will also be given the opportunity to present the reasons to the Board why the application was denied. The Board of Education will then render its decision on whether to overturn or sustain the Director of Schools or his/her designee’s decision to disapprove the course access course application by majority vote of the Board present at the meeting.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

656 STUDENT SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST

Last Updated Date: 09/09/2019

Sudden cardiac arrest (“SCA”) is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. When this happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. SCA may—and usually does—cause death if it is not treated within minutes. The Sevier County Board of Education recognizes that SCA is a serious health issue and should be treated as a serious health issue. To ensure the safety of students participating in interscholastic sports and to combat this serious health issue, it is crucial that everyone involved with interscholastic sports—student-athletes, parents, coaches, and athletic directors—is educated about the nature and treatment of SCA.

Guidelines and Policies

The Board adopts the guidelines and any other relevant information and materials developed by the Tennessee Department of Health to educate coaches, school administrators, student-athletes, and parents or guardians of student-athletes on the nature, risk, and symptoms of SCA. These guidelines and materials can be found on the Tennessee Department of Health’s website and shall be made available to interested parties through Central Office.

This policy governs all activities and the individuals involved in activities that qualify as a “community-based youth athletic activity” or “youth athletic activity” under Tenn. Code Ann.§ 68-6-102(1).

Required Training
The Director of Schools or his/her designee shall ensure that every school’s athletic director and every coach—whether employed or volunteer—annually complete the National Federation of State High School Associations’ Free Online Elective Course—Sudden Cardiac Arrest. This course may be accessed online at www.nfhslearn.com under “All Courses.”

Before the yearly initiation of practice or competition, each school athletic director, each licensed healthcare professional (if appointed), and each coach—whether employed or volunteer—shall review and sign an SCA information sheet approved by the Tennessee Department of Health.

Before the yearly initiation of practice or competition, all student-athletes and their parent or guardians shall review the SCA information sheet approved by the Tennessee Department of Health. Every student-athlete—if the athlete is 18 years of age or older—or the parents or guardians of every student-athlete under 18 years of age, shall sign a form confirming that the SCA information sheet was reviewed.

The Director of Schools or his/her designee shall maintain all documentation of the completion of a SCA education course and signed SCA information sheets for three years.

Guidance for the Removal of Student from Athletics
As required by Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-6-103(f), any student showing signs consistent with SCA during or after an activity that qualifies as a “community-based youth athletic activity” or “youth athletic activity” under Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-6-102(1) shall be immediately removed for evaluation by a licensed healthcare professional. Signs consistent with SCA include, but are not limited to: passing out or fainting while participating in an athletic activity or immediately after, unexplained shortness of breath, chest pains, dizziness, racing heart rate, or extreme fatigue.

Any student-athlete who has been removed from an activity that qualifies as a “community-based youth athletic activity” or “youth athletic activity” under Tenn. Code Ann. § 68-6-102(1) shall not return to the activity they were removed from. Student-athletes who have been removed shall not return to play or participate in any supervised team activities involving physical exertion, including games, competitions, or practices, until the student-athlete is evaluated by a licensed health care professional and receives written clearance from the licensed health care professional for a full or graduated return to play.

Penalties for Coaches in Violation of Policies

Any coach found to be in violation of any provision of this policy or who allows a student-athlete to return to a practice or competition during which the athlete experienced symptoms of SCA without written clearance from a licensed healthcare professional shall be subject to the following minimum penalties and any other penalties the Board finds appropriate:

1. For a first violation, suspension from coaching any school youth athletic activity for the remainder of the season;
2. For a second violation, suspension from coaching any school youth athletic activity for the remainder of the season and the next season; and
3. For a third violation, permanent suspension from coaching any school youth athletic activity.

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

657 STUDENT EQUAL ACCESS AND LIMITED PUBLIC FORUM

Last Updated Date: 09/09/2019

Student Clubs and Meetings

Consistent with Tennessee and federal law, the Sevier County Schools allows students to organize clubs and groups that meet before, during, or after school to the same extent it allows students to organize other non-curricular student activities and groups. Students in grades 9 through 12 may initiate non-curriculum related meetings regardless of the religious or political nature of the meetings.

No funds shall be expended by the school for any such meeting beyond the incidental costs associated with providing meeting space. Groups meeting under this policy may be required to pay a reasonable fee for compensating school personnel in the supervision of the activity.

No student may be compelled to attend or participate in a meeting under this policy.

A student or a group of students who wish to conduct a meeting under this policy must file an application with the principal at least three days prior to the proposed date.

A school’s principal shall approve the meeting if the principal determines that:

1. The meeting is voluntary and student-initiated;
2. There is no sponsorship of the meeting or its contents by the school, the Board, or its employees;
3. The meeting will not materially and substantially interfere with the orderly conduct of the school’s educational activities or conflict with other previously scheduled meetings;
4. Employees of the district are to be present in a non-participatory monitoring capacity; however, no employee shall be required to attend in this capacity if the content of the meeting is contrary to the beliefs of the employees; and
5. Non-school person will not direct, control or regularly attend.

School Sponsored Events

If a student is authorized to speak at an event, a limited public forum shall be established for the student speakers. A student speaker’s expression on an otherwise permissible subject shall not be excluded from the limited public forum because the subject is expressed from a religious or political viewpoint. Additionally, the appropriate school administrator shall ensure that:

1. The forum is provided in a way that does not discriminate against a student’s voluntary expression of a religious or political viewpoint on an otherwise permissible subject;
2. There is a method—based on neutral criteria—for the selection of student speakers at the event
3. A student speaker does not engage in speech that is obscene, vulgar, offensively lewd, indecent, or promotes illegal drug use.

Prior to and at the event where students will speak, the school shall provide a disclaimer in writing, orally, or both that the student’s speech does not reflect the endorsement, sponsorship, position, or expression of the school. A disclaimer of this type shall be provided for as long as is needed to disperse of any confusion over the school’s non-sponsorship of the student’s communications.
 

Policy References

600 - STUDENTS

658 PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS DEVICES

Last Updated Date: 09/12/2022

In order to prevent the loss of instructional time due to distractions associated with personal communications devices, the Sevier County Board of Education seeks to set forth rules governing their use in its schools.  Personal communications devices would include any variety of electronic item (cellular phone, smart watch, media player, tablet, laptop, etc.) which can send and/or receive voice broadcasts, texts, videos, or images and which is equipped to make an audible, vibratory, or visual alert that is intended to divert the attention of its possessor.  While the SCBE recognizes the prevalence of such devices as well as their importance to families in maintaining communications and ensuring safety, their role in distracting students during instructional time and in facilitating inappropriate communication and cyberbullying cannot go unaddressed.  As such, the following rules should govern the possession and use of such devices in Sevier County Schools:

• Students may have personal communications devices in their possession, but these devices must be kept powered off or set to prevent audible alerts, vibrations, or otherwise draw the attention of their possessors or surrounding individuals during instructional time and other periods of the school day determined by the principal or designee.

• Further, these devices should not be made visible, seen to be in use, or taken out of storage during instructional time or designated periods during the school day.

• The principal or designee may grant permission for such devices to be used in certain locations, during specified times, for certain instructional purposes, or for immediate contact with parents or guardians on a case by case basis. Pursuant to Board Policy No. 121, however, students must remember that in-school audio or video recordings of any kind remain strictly prohibited.

• Students who are found to be in violation of these rules may be subject to disciplinary responses including:

  • Confiscation of the device until the end of the period or school day

  • In-school Suspension or other school-based consequences

  • For repeated violations, administrators may consider confiscation of the device for parent pickup and/or short term placement at the alternative school

In addition to these consequences, use of any personal communications device to bully, harass, or intimidate others while at school or a school-sponsored function will be subject to discipline per board policy.  Use of any personal communications device to create, share, transmit, or possess obscene, pornographic, or illegal material while at school or at a school-sponsored function will be subject to related disciplinary action and referred to local law enforcement for potential charges. Likewise, any student creating, sharing, transmitting, or possessing obscene, pornographic, illegal, or otherwise inappropriate images, photographs, or videos of other students or any other individual at school, on a school bus, or while attending any school event or activity will be subject to the disciplinary procedures of the school district and reported to law enforcement and other appropriate agencies.

Policy References

600 STUDENTS

659 Threat Assessment Teams

A threat assessment team shall be created within the school district to develop intervention-based approaches to prevent violence, manage reports of potential threats, and create a system that fosters a safe, supportive, and effective school environment. The Director of Schools/designee shall appoint the members of the threat assessment team.

The Director of Schools/designee shall develop administrative procedures regarding the training and operations of the team to comply with state law and State Board of Education rules and regulations.

RECORDKEEPING

The team shall document all behaviors and incidents deemed to pose a risk to school safety or that resulted in intervention and shall provide the information to the Director of Schools/designee.  A report of the activities of the threat assessment team will be compiled and shared with the Board at their request.

CONFIDENTIAL

Meetings, records, and any information stemming from or relating to a threat assessment reports or activities shall remain entirely confidential, and, thus, shall not be open to the public or available for public inspection. Threat assessment team members, administrators, and board members will also work to keep records and any information stemming from or relating to a threat assessment confidential, including only discussing or sharing such information with those within the school system who possess a clear need to know the same.