Williamson County Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

See the district website for more information.

Although every effort will be made to update the handbook on a regular basis, Williamson County Schools reserves the right to change this handbook and any content within, without notice, except as may be required by state and federal law. As a result, the online version of the handbook shall be the official version.

Athletics

All students participating in interscholastic athletics must have a current athletic physical form, concussion release form, and cardiac arrest form on file with the athletic department prior to participation in any tryout or practice. Forms may be submitted on Final Forms. Information regarding individual teams and expectations for student athletes may be found on the school’s website. See Williamson County Board of Education Policy 4.301 for additional information.

Custodial Issues/Parenting Plan

Custodial parents/guardians must inform the school immediately upon any changes in custody, especially court restraining orders. Non-custodial parents may contact the school regarding access to their student’s academic progress. All families with a parenting plan must have that plan on file with their child/children’s front office(s), along with any subsequent orders or changes to the parenting plan or court order establishing the primary residential parent. See Williamson County Board of Education policy 6.209.

Drug-Free Schools

Students shall not unlawfully possess, handle, transmit, use, be under the influence of, share, or sell drugs or any controlled substances in any way in school buildings, on school grounds, or on other grounds used for school purposes, (including parking lots or athletic facilities), on school buses, or at any school sponsored activity (See WCSB Policy 6.307).

Emergency Closings

Parents/guardians of Williamson County Schools students will receive school closure notifications by phone, text, email, mobile app, and social media. Visit the App Store or Google Play to download our app for free. Search for Williamson County Schools.

The district aims to notify parents/guardians and staff members of delays and cancellations by 9:00 PM the night before. If not possible, the district will begin notifying families as early as 5:00 AM the morning of the day school is closed.

Parents/guardians will be notified only at the main number on file in the phone notification system. If school is dismissed during the day, parents/guardians will receive notification to all of the phone numbers on file.

Extracurricular Activities, Clubs, and Organizations

All students will need to have a signed permission form before participation in any activity of a club or organization. Permission forms are located on the school website under the extracurricular tab.

Field Trips

Students may have the opportunity to participate in several field trips as extensions of classroom activities throughout the year. Teachers will notify parents/guardians concerning field trips and send home permission forms for parent/guardian's signature. The school must have on file written permission from the parent/guardian before a student may go on a field trip. If the written permission slip is not returned by the due date, the child will not be able to attend the field trip. Students will travel by bus to and from all off-campus trips.  Any exceptions to this procedure must be approved by the principal. See the WCSB Policy 4.302 for more information. 

Fire, Tornado, and Emergency Drills

See Williamson County Board of Education policy 3.202 for more information on emergency procedures.

Moment of Silence or Prayer

Tennessee State Law – (TCA 49-6-1004):

In order for all students and teachers to prepare themselves for the activities of the day, a period of silence of approximately one minute in duration shall be maintained in each grade in public schools at the beginning of each school day. The teacher shall not indicate or suggest to the students any action to be taken by them during this time but shall maintain silence for the full time. It is lawful for any teacher in any of the schools of the state to permit the voluntary participation by students or others in prayer. Nothing contained in this section shall authorize any teacher or other school authority to prescribe the form or content of any prayer.

Parent and Family Communication

Ongoing communication from school to home and from home to school is essential. Your ideas, questions, and concerns are important. Teachers, administrators, and some support staff have a WCS e-mail address.  Although you may wish to communicate with your child’s teacher by e-mail, please be aware that e-mail is not always confidential.  Please do not send time sensitive information by e-mail. It is our goal to return parent/guardian communication in all forms within 48 hours on Monday-Friday when school is in session.

Photography and Videography Guidelines

The WCS Communications Department has provided the following guidelines for parents regarding photography and videography in schools. The purpose of the guidelines is to address problems that have occurred at some schools when parents have taken pictures at school and posted them on online social media sites.

• Parents are advised not to post on social media any pictures taken at school that include any children other than their own.
• Picture-taking at non-public school events: These events occur before, during, and after school and include class parties, field trips, assemblies to which the public is not invited (ex. talent show during the day, etc.) Parents are encouraged to take photos/video of their own children but should not take photos/video of other children.
• Picture-taking at public school events: This includes events that are open to the public such as Back to School Bash, Family Fun Night, etc.  Parents may take photos at public school events that include other people's children but should avoid posting these photos to social media.

School Nutrition Program

See the WCS website (here) for more information about the school nutrition program.

Student Enrollment

All new students will register online using their Family Access account login.  If you choose not to use the online registration, paper packets can be picked up in the front office. Returning students should submit the intent to return documentation on Skyward each year. If you need computer access or assistance, you may contact your front office. See WCS website (here) for more information about open enrollment and other enrollment options.

Student Fees

See WCS website (here) for more information about student fees.

Student Withdrawal

If a move or other circumstance requires a withdrawal from school, a withdrawal form must be completed, all WCS issued materials and devices must be turned in, and a student must be in good standing with the library and cafeteria. Once all requirements are met, a parent/guardian may withdraw a student from school. Contact your school for more information regarding withdrawal.

Textbooks

Parents and guardians shall accept full responsibility for the proper care, preservation, return, or replacement of textbooks and instructional materials, including Chromebooks. See Williamson County Board of Education Policy 4.401 for more information about textbooks and instructional materials.

Transportation

Bus Riders

See the WCS website (here) for information, policies, and practices regarding bus transportation.

Car Riders

Your school will communicate with you at the beginning of the school year regarding procedures for car riders.

Walkers/Bikers

Your school will communicate with you at the beginning of the school year regarding procedures for walkers and/or bikers.

Parking/Driving on Campus

Parking and driving on campus are privileges. See school website for polices and procedures regarding parking and driving privileges.

Visitors to Schools

1. All visitors must enter and exit through the main office doors.
2. Parents/guardians, visitors, and volunteers must present photo identification to enter the building.
3. All visitors must sign in and out in the office and wear a visitor or volunteer sticker/badge at all times.
4. School personnel escort visitors touring the school.

See WCSB Policy 1.501 for additional information.

Academic Integrity

Academic excellence is a hallmark of Williamson County Schools, and we firmly believe that students should take pride in achieving success on their own merit while promoting honesty, integrity, and responsible conduct among all within the school community. We believe that the completion of an individual’s work provides the feeling of confidence and self-efficacy that helps them achieve ultimate success. As a community, we ask students to pledge to complete their work with academic integrity and take pride in the great accomplishment that comes with graduating from Williamson County Schools. School consequences could follow for any student violating our district integrity commitment. 

Assessment

Three components play a critical role into every Williamson County Schools student’s educational program: a solid curriculum, effective instruction, and quality assessment. Curriculum, derived from state standards, defines what students need to know. Instruction is the practice of teaching each student that curriculum. Assessment is used to measure the student’s progress and mastery of what is being taught.

Please make every effort to have your student at school on time during assessment windows. No absences will be excused for family trips during these windows. You may view the district assessment resources here.

Attendance

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

Tardies and Early Dismissals

Students arriving after the start of school are tardy. See WCS website here for start times and dates for Late Start Days.

Early dismissals are strongly discouraged within 30 minutes of the end of the school day due to the interruption of instructional time in classes and are a disruption to the regular dismissal process. Instructional time continues until dismissal.  Office personnel must verify the identification of individuals when releasing a student. The parent/guardian must sign the student out in the office when the parent/guardian arrives to pick up the student, stating time and reason, and office personnel will call the student to the office when the parent/guardian arrives to pick up the student.  

Parents/guardians must communicate in writing the permission for someone to pick up a student other than the parent/guardian. Office personnel will ask for a state-issued photo ID when someone comes to school to check out a student. Students may not be picked up from car services such as Uber and Lyft.  These companies prohibit minors from being transported alone.

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

Excused Absences

As detailed in Williamson County Board of Education Policy 6.200, excused absences include: (1) illness, (2) death in the family, (3) recognized religious holiday, (4) doctor or dentist appointment, or (5) Principal approved emergency or exceptional circumstances.

Written Documentation

The Williamson County School Board Policy 6.200 requires written parental or medical documentation for all absences, tardies, and early dismissals. This documentation ensures that school personnel are fully and accurately informed about your child. All absences are considered “unexcused” until a note is sent, preferably within 48 hours of the student’s return to school. The designation of an absence as “excused” is at the final discretion of the principal. When a student’s absences exceed 8 days, a doctor’s note will be required to excuse all future absences.  Notes are kept on file for the school year.  Parents/guardians may also send an email with all appropriate information to the school’s front office.

Notes should state:

• Child’s name
• Teacher’s name
• Date(s) of absence
• Reason for absence
• Doctor’s note attached (if applicable)
• Parent or guardian signature

School Notification

When a student accumulates a total of 8 total absences, all other absences will be considered unexcused unless a doctor’s note is presented within 48 hours of returning to school. 

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

• 3 unexcused absences - parents/guardians will be notified via email or phone.
• 5 unexcused absences – Tier II truancy intervention begins, and a meeting will be held with family and school personnel. The team will create a contract to support the family and ensure subsequent school attendance. Follow-up meetings will be planned to monitor progress.
• If the student continues to accumulate absences, Tier III of truancy intervention may be triggered and additional interventions, including potential juvenile court referral, will be established.
• The Tennessee Department of Education Accountability Regulations (ESSA) defines students as "chronically absent" after 18 absences per year, regardless of excused or unexcused. Students who accumulate 18 or more absences will be considered “Chronically Absent” and reported to the state.

Grading System

See Williamson County Board of Education Policy 4.600 for information regarding the grading system.

Homework

Homework is defined as purposeful academic assignments given to students by teachers, which are to be completed outside of class time. See Williamson County Board of Education Policy 4.609 for more information on homework.

Response to Intervention (RTI)

A general education initiative, Response to Instruction and Intervention, or RTI, is a comprehensive framework for supporting students academically that focuses on high-quality instruction and evidence-based interventions.  Instruction and intervention is tailored to meet the needs of the student through the use of initial screening data. Screening data come from assessments designed to identify student strengths and areas of need in reading, mathematics, and written expression.

Student Progress

Student performance may be accessed through Skyward Family Access for all students. Parents/guardians may request that a printed copy of their student’s report card be sent home each nine weeks. More information regarding student progress polices can be found in WCS Board of Education Policy 4.603.

Communicable Diseases

No student shall be denied an education solely because of a communicable disease, and his/her educational program shall be restricted only to the extent necessary to minimize the risk of transmitting the disease.

When determining whether your child is well enough to attend school, please refer to the Williamson County Schools Illness Guidelines.  Please note that your child should not be sent to school until he/she has been fever free for at least 24 hours without taking a fever reducing medication.

If the school nurse determines that your child needs to leave, we ask that you or an emergency contact pick up your child within the hour that you are called.

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

Immunizations

No students entering school, including those entering kindergarten or first grade, those from out-of-state, and those from nonpublic schools, will be permitted to enroll (or attend) without proof of immunization, as determined by the Tennessee Commissioner of Health. It is the responsibility of the parent(s)/guardian(s) to have their children immunized and to provide such proof to the school for which the student is to attend.

Exceptions, in the absence of an epidemic or immediate threat thereof, will be granted to any student whose parent/guardian files with school authorities the following:

1. A signed, written statement that such immunization and other preventative measures conflict with the parent’s or guardian’s religious tenets and practices, affirmed under the penalties of perjury;
2. A written statement from the student’s doctor excusing the student from immunization due to medical reasons;
3. Any student determined to be homeless, pursuant to federal law, may not be denied admission because of the student’s lack of immunization records due to being homeless.

Proof of exceptions will be in writing and filed in the same manner as other immunization records.

Medicines

The school nurse may only administer medications that are provided and authorized by the parent/guardian. Students should not have prescription or over-the-counter medicines on their person or stored in their locker. You can find the medication authorization form here.

Physical Examinations

Each student shall have a complete physical examination prior to:

1. Entering public school for the first time
2. Participation as a member of any interscholastic athletic team on an annual basis.

Cost of the examination shall be borne by the parent/guardian of the student. These records shall be on file in the student’s record. 

Screening tests as required by the Tennessee Departments of Education and Health will be conducted. Parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive written notice of any screening result that indicates a condition that might interfere or tend to interfere with their student's progress. 

In general, the school will not conduct physical examinations of a student without parental consent or by court order, unless the health or safety of the student or others is in question.

Suspensions
See Williamson County Board of Education policy 6.316 for more information regarding suspensions.

Title IX & Sexual Harassment
In order to maintain a safe, civil, and supportive learning environment, all forms of sexual harassment and discrimination on the basis of sex are prohibited. This shall cover employees, employees' behaviors, students, and students' behaviors while on school property, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided equipment or transportation, or at any official school bus stop in accordance with federal law.

The Title IX Coordinator shall respond promptly to all general reports as well as formal complaints of sexual harassment and may be reached at any time by phone or email.  

For additional information concerning Title IX and sexual harassment, see board policy 6.3401 or the Title IX website.

Zero Tolerance
The following are zero-tolerance offenses that will result in a calendar year expulsion:

1. Bringing to school or being in unauthorized possession of a firearm or any dangerous weapon on school property;
   
   
2. Possession of drugs or alcohol, including any controlled substance, controlled substance analogue, or legend drug on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event;
   
   
3. Aggravated assault;
   
   
4. Assault that results in bodily injury upon any teacher, principal, administrator, any other employee of the school, or school resource officer; and
   
   
5. Threats of mass violence

For more information, refer to Williamson County School Board policy 6.309.

English Learners

If the inability to speak and understand the English language excludes a student from effective participation in the educational programs offered by WCS, WCS shall take reasonable actions to provide the student equal access to its programs. Students who are English learners (EL) shall be identified, assessed, and provided appropriate services. No student shall be admitted to or excluded from any program or extracurricular activity based on the student’s surname or EL status.

The Superintendent shall evaluate the effectiveness of the district’s language assistance programs to ensure EL students will acquire English proficiency and the ability to participate in the standard instructional program within a reasonable period of time.

Parents/guardians of EL students shall be given notice of, and information regarding, the instructional program within the first thirty (30) days of the school year or within the first two (2) weeks of a student being placed in a language instruction educational program.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 4.207.

Homebound Instruction

The homebound instruction program is for students who because of a medical condition are unable to attend the regular instructional program. The homebound instruction program shall consist of three (3) hours of instruction per week while school is in session for a period of time determined, on a case-by-case basis, by WCS.

To qualify for this program, a student shall have a medical condition that will require the student to be absent for a minimum of ten (10) consecutive instructional days, or for an aggregate of at least ten (10) instructional days for a student who has a chronic medical condition. The student shall be certified by his/her treating physician as having a medical condition that prevents him/her from attending regular classes. The services provided to the homebound student shall reflect the student’s capabilities and be determined by the homebound instructor, after consultation with appropriate professional staff of the student’s assigned school.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 4.206.

Homeless Students

Homeless students 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) or missed the district’s application or enrollment deadlines. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are required to submit contact information to the district’s homeless coordinator. The Superintendent shall ensure that each homeless student is provided services comparable to those offered to other students within WCS, including transportation, special education services, programs in career and technical education, programs for gifted and talented students, and school nutrition.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 6.503 or visit the WCS website.

Migrant Students

The District shall:

1. Identify migratory students and assess the educational and related health and social needs of each student;
2. Provide a full range of services to qualifying migrant students including applicable Title I programs, special education, gifted education, vocational education, language programs, counseling programs, elective classes, fine arts classes, etc.;
3. Provide migratory students with the opportunity to meet the same statewide assessment standards that all students are expected to meet;
4. To the extent feasible, provide advocacy and outreach programs to migratory students and their families and professional development for district staff; and
5. Provide parent(s)/guardian(s) an opportunity to participate in the program.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 6.503 for more information.

Section 504 and ADA Grievance Procedures

WCS is committed to maintaining equitable employment and educational practices, services, programs, and activities that are accessible and usable by individuals with disabilities. To discuss concerns or seek resolutions related to Section 504 or the ADA, contact Student Support Services. SSS shall respond to all complaints within twenty (20) days with a written response as well as information on further grievance procedures that may be followed if the complaining party is not satisfied with the coordinator's proposed resolution.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 1.802 or visit the Student Support Services website here.

Students in Foster Care

Students in foster care, including 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) or missed the district’s application or enrollment deadlines.

WCS and the child welfare agency shall determine whether placement in a particular school is in a student’s best interest. Other parties, including the student, foster parents/guardians, and biological parents/guardians (if appropriate), shall be consulted. If the child has an IEP or a Section 504 plan, then the relevant school staff members shall participate in the best interest decision process. This determination shall be made as quickly as possible to prevent educational disruption.

WCS shall collaborate with the local child welfare agency to develop and implement clear and written procedures governing how transportation to a student’s school of origin shall be provided, arranged, and funded. This transportation will be provided for the duration of the student’s time in foster care.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 6.505.

Students from Military Families

A student who does not currently reside within Williamson County shall be allowed to enroll if he/she is a dependent child of a service member who is being relocated to Tennessee on military orders. To be eligible for enrollment, the student will need to provide documentation that he/she will be a resident of the district on relocation. Within thirty (30) of enrollment, the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student shall provide proof of residency within the district. 

Students with parent(s)/guardian(s) in the military may also be eligible for excused absences related to his/her deployment.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 6.506.

Students with Disabilities

Williamson County Schools, in compliance with federal and state law, performs a countywide Child Find. Child Find uses screening to find students in both public school or private school located in the geographic region who may need special education services and supports.

There are two types of screening. The first is a general screening of preschool age children throughout the school year. These screenings are on-going and serve preschool-aged children. The other kind of screening is only for school-aged children. A child can be referred for screening by school personnel, the family and/or individuals in the county (physicians, child care providers, etc.) This should be done any time it is suspected that a child has a disability.

Visit the Student Support Services tab on the WCS website (here) for more information.

Use of the Internet

Williamson County Schools supports the right of students to have reasonable access to various information formats and believes that it is incumbent upon students to use this privilege in an appropriate and responsible manner. Students will be given appropriate instruction in internet safety as a part of any instruction utilizing computer resources. Please see the Responsible Use Procedure. If your child violates these policies, they could lose technology access while at school.

For more information, refer to Williamson County Board of Education policy 4.406.

Use of Personal Communication Devices

Personal communication devices of any kind may not be used to take pictures, video, or audio recording in the school setting. Personal communication devices of any kind are only to be used during the school day for instructional purposes only, at the direction of a teacher. Students take full responsibility for personal communication devices at all times. 

BHS Honor Pledge:

I pledge to uphold a high level of respect and integrity as a student representing Brentwood High School. I understand and will maintain the Honor Code in letter and spirit to help our school advance authentic learning. I will not lie, cheat, plagiarize or be complicit with those who do.

Academic Integrity Policy:

Brentwood High School expects all students to abide by ethical academic standards. Academic dishonesty includes plagiarism, cheating or copying the work of another, using technology for illicit purposes, or any unauthorized communication between students for gaining advantage during an examination. Brentwood High School’s Academic Integrity Policy covers all school-related tests, quizzes, reports, class assignments, and projects, both in and out of class.

The purpose of Brentwood High School’s Academic Integrity Policy is to prepare students for the reality created by the technology explosion, for the world of college and beyond, where cheating and plagiarism have dire consequences. Plagiarism is different from cooperation or collaboration. Teachers often expect, even encourage, students to work on assignments collectively. This is okay if the work is shown it is clearly relayed.

Having academic integrity means valuing and demonstrating positive regard for: Intellectual honesty, Personal truthfulness, Learning for its own sake, The creations and opinions of others (i.e., intellectual property) You are acting with academic integrity to the extent that you demonstrate these values, and in particular:

• Take full credit for your own work and give full credit to others who have helped you or influenced you, or whose work you have incorporated into your own.  Plagiarism is to commit literary theft to steal and pass off as one’s own ideas or words, and to create the production of another. When you use someone else’s words, you must put quotation marks around them and give the writer or speaker credit by citing the source. Even if you revise or paraphrase the words of someone else, if you use someone else’s ideas, you must give the author credit. Some Internet users believe that anything available on-line is public domain. Such is not the case. Ideas belong to those who create and articulate them. To use someone else’s words or ideas without giving credit to the originator is stealing.
• Represent your own work honestly and accurately. Cheating is a serious violation of the process of education. It includes, but is not limited to, the willful giving or receiving of an unauthorized, unfair, dishonest, or unscrupulous advantage over other students in schoolwork or activities. Some examples are unauthorized copying of assignments (including computer documents and files); stealing another student’s homework and turning it in as one’s own; plagiarism; submitting pre-written work for set classroom exercises or tests; using unauthorized study aids, notes, books, data, or other information; selling or buying or sharing papers without authorization; altering an assignment or test after it has been graded; stealing tests or other unauthorized material, or passing such material stolen by others; talking or signaling to another student during a test or quiz; looking at another student’s answers during a test or quiz, or permitting another student to look at one’s own test or quiz; possessing or using “crib” or cheat sheets; leaving books open on the floor to view during a test or quiz; using unauthorized calculators, palm computers, or other electronic devices to obtain answers during tests or quizzes; passing test information on to students in other classes; computer fraud; sabotaging the project or experiments of other students. Intending to cheat is considered the same as cheating.  Forgery or stealing includes, but is not limited to, gaining unauthorized access to exams or answers to an exam, altering computer or grade-book records, or forging signatures for the purpose of academic advantage.
• Collaborate with other students only as specifically directed and authorized. Collaboration is to work together (with permission) in a joint intellectual effort.
• Report breeches of academic integrity to a teacher, counselor, or administrator

Procedures for students, teachers, and administrators:

1. Teachers will review and post the honor code in their classrooms or in their syllabi.
2. Teachers will communicate their policy for late assignments and violation of the honor code.
3. Students shall: Consult the teacher when a question of the honor code arises and do not tolerate infractions of the honor code.
4. Students will sign a signature page to acknowledge they understand their teachers' expectations for assignments and grades.
5. Administrators shall be fair and consistent when dealing with honor code violations and allow students the opportunity to explain their side.

Consequence for violation of the honor code:

The determination that a student has engaged in academic dishonesty is based on specific evidence provided by the classroom teacher or other supervising professional employee, taking into consideration written materials and observations.
Students who violate BHS academic integrity policy will be assigned Friday School and will participate in restorative reflection with their grade level assistant principal.

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

Tardies and Early Dismissals

Students arriving after the start of school are tardy. The WCS Plan Your Day page for school start times and the dates for Late Start Days.

Early dismissals are strongly discouraged within 30 minutes of the end of the school day due to the interruption of instructional time in classes and are a disruption to the regular dismissal process. Instructional time continues until dismissal.  Office personnel must verify the identification of individuals when releasing a student. The parent/guardian must sign the student out in the office when the parent/guardian arrives to pick up the student, stating time and reason, and office personnel will call the student to the office when the parent/guardian arrives to pick up the student.  

Leaving During School Hours:

Any student requesting an early dismissal should leave a note signed by his parent or guardian in the Office of Student Services before 7:40 AM. All notes should contain the date, the specific reason for leaving, the parent or guardian’s signature, and the parent or guardian’s daytime phone number. The parent or guardian will be contacted prior to student release to verify the note.

To leave campus early all students must sign out through the student services office.

Parents are urged to schedule dental and medical appointments outside school hours. When such appointments cannot be scheduled outside school hours, parents must send a written request for dismissal to the school or call for the pupil in person. When the student returns, he should submit an official statement from the professional involved citing the date and time of the appointment.

A student who becomes ill during the day should report to the clinic with a pass written by the teacher of his class. The student’s parent will be contacted to decide how best to care for the student.

To go to the school parking lot during the school day, students must obtain a pass from a teacher.

No pupil shall be sent from the school during school hours to perform an errand, retrieve forgotten items, or act as a messenger, except with the approval of the principal and the consent of the pupil’s parent or guardian. Errands are considered UNEXCUSED.

Parents/guardians must communicate in writing the permission for someone to pick up a student other than the parent/guardian. Office personnel will ask for a state-issued photo ID when someone comes to school to check out a student. Students may not be picked up from car services such as Uber and Lyft.  These companies prohibit minors from being transported alone.

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

Excused Absences

As detailed in Williamson County Board of Education Policy 6.200, excused absences include: (1) illness, (2) death in the family, (3) recognized religious holiday, (4) doctor or dentist appointment, or (5) Principal approved emergency or exceptional circumstances.

Written Documentation

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

Notes should state:

• Child’s name
• Grade Level
• Date(s) of absence
• Reason for absence
• Doctor’s note attached (if applicable)
• Parent or guardian signature

School Notification

When a student accumulates a total of 8 absences (excused or unexcused), all other absences will be considered unexcused unless a doctor’s note is presented within 48 hours of returning to school. 

Excessive Absences:

Students who have had five unexcused absences within a school year will have violated the attendance laws of this state. The name of any student who has accumulated five unexcused absences the students name will be submitted to the Attendance Department for proper disposition. Administration shall report any child who habitually and unlawfully absents himself from school to the juvenile judge, where said judge shall deal with the matter as he may determine to be in the best interest of the child.

Ten (10) consecutive or fifteen (15) total unexcused absences during any semester result in a student becoming ineligible to retain a driver’s permit or license, or to obtain such if of age.

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

• 3 unexcused absences - parents/guardians will be notified via email or phone.
• 5 unexcused absences – Tier II truancy intervention begins, and a meeting will be held with family and school personnel. The team will create a contract to support the family and ensure subsequent school attendance. Follow-up meetings will be planned to monitor progress.
• If the student continues to accumulate absences, Tier III of truancy intervention may be triggered and additional interventions, including potential juvenile court referral, will be established.

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

College Visits

• Seniors and juniors may visit colleges during the school year for no more than four (4) days per year. The student must bring documentation from the college indicating the date the student visited. College visits will be considered field trips for attendance purposes as long as the student provides documentation. Documentation must be returned to the school following the college visit within three (3) school days for the student's absence to be considered a field trip for attendance purposes.

Students are extended the privilege of possessing cell phones and portable devices on school grounds. However, personal calls and recreational use is prohibited during class and as designated by school personnel. Portable listening devices in the classroom are at the discretion of the teacher. Students must follow the class rules set by the teacher in the classroom.

In order to access learning resources seamlessly in the classroom, it is expected that students bring their fully charged WCS chromebook to school each day.  If students experience any issues with their chromebook, they may turn in a Help Desk ticket (a link can be found on their Classlink Dashboard) or stop by the library for help in troubleshooting.  If the chromebook is found to have been damaged and/or in need of replacement, the following costs will be incurred:

• Lost/not returned - $100
• Chromebook repair - $40
• Lost power cord with AC adapter - $20

Electronic Cigarettes Policy

Students are forbidden to be in possession of or to use electronic cigarettes in school buildings, on school grounds, in school vehicles/buses, or at school-sponsored activities, functions or events. Such electronic cigarettes will be confiscated and turned over to the school resource officer to determine the contents. Students will receive ISS for possession or use of the electronic cigarette and may receive other disciplinary consequences depending on the contents.

Prevention of Youth Access to Tobacco and Vapor Products Act:

• Limits places where products can be used to those places where smoking is allowed.
• Cannot smoke or use a vapor product within 100 ft. of any school entrance.
• Extends to all school grounds, includes public seating areas, bleachers, or public restrooms.

Tobacco Policy

State law now specifically prohibits students from possessing or using tobacco on school grounds. Students in violation will be written a citation and will be cited to juvenile court with fines ranging from $10.00 to $50.00 per offense and community service as minimum penalties. In addition, such students may be subject to some form of suspension. Repeat offenders will receive extended suspensions and/or referral to the Alternative Learning Center. Possessions of tobacco in student vehicles on campus may cause students to lose parking privileges.

Explore the WCS Board Policy: Report Cards and Grading Systems 4.600 for grading scales and how to calculate GPA for high school students.

Library Policies

To visit the library before school or after school:

• Students are welcome to visit the library to print or to check out a book only.
  To visit the library during the school day:
• Students must report to classroom teacher and request permission to visit library.
• Each study hall classroom teacher can send up to two students at a time to visit the library. Students must stay in the library for the duration of the study hall period.
• Visit the locker and bathroom before entering the library.
• Students must sign in when entering the library. Stop at the sign-in desk upon entering to complete the sign-in process.
• If the library is full, students must report back to their assigned teacher.
• Students must sit in a chair. No sitting on the floor will be allowed.
• Students must follow the library rules. Otherwise, the student will be escorted back to class.

Computer Rules in Library:

Students must have a WCS Internet Acceptable Use Policy signed by student and parent on file.  The computers in the library should be used for school work only. 

Food and Drink Rules in Library:

• No food is allowed in the library.
• No drinks (except water bottles) are allowed in the library.

Other Library Policies:

• All books, except reference books, can be checked out for a two-week period. The fine is 10 cents per day that the book is overdue.
• Reference books can be checked out overnight only. The fine is one dollar per day that the book is overdue.
• A copy machine is available for student use.

Locker Policy:

Each student will be issued an individual locker so he/she will have a secure place to store school supplies and personal items needed at school. Do not store valuables or money in your locker and do not give out your locker combination. If your locker is not working properly or you feel someone has tampered with it, inform Student Services.
The following rules apply to lockers:

• Do not deface or damage any part of your locker or any other (only put items inside the door that can easily be removed). Do not write, use tape, or put stickers on lockers.
• Do not switch lockers without administrative approval.
• Do not leave food, pop cans, etc., in lockers for extended periods of time.
• The administration retains the right to periodically inspect lockers for cleanliness. The student assigned a locker will be held responsible for all contents of that locker.
• Students are required to clean their locker at the year’s end.
• Students are not allowed to share lockers.

Students are reminded that lockers are the property of the school. Student lockers may be searched if there exists a “reasonable suspicion” that the locker contains any item that is either illegal or inappropriate.

In accepting a locker for use at BHS, students acknowledge they are responsible for keeping it clean and damage free. If during the year their locker becomes vandalized or damaged, they will notify Student Services within 24 hours for documentation or be held responsible for any unreported damage. At the end of the year all lockers will be inspected by Student Services. If a student’s locker is considered unacceptable, the parents and student will be contacted for further action.

Locker Decorating:

Birthdays, team, and organizations congratulatory décor is permitted following the below procedures:

• 1. Décor may be affixed with painters' tape only.
• All décor must be removed by the next week.
• Decorating lockers for celebrations of any kind may not use glue, duct or packing tape or any other materials which may deface the locker.

End of the Year Locker Clean Out Expectations:

Students shall remove all textbooks, clothing, binders or any other personal items by the day and time indicated by the administration.

The lost and found is in Student Services. Students can come to the office to check with Student Services and see if their lost item has been turned in.

Items left at home by students can be dropped off on the cart outside the front door at any point during the school day. Parents will need to fill out the form, “Oops, I Forgot,” provided on the cart. During classes, items will be brought inside to Student Services for students to pick up from their grade level shelf.

Parents and students are not allowed to have outside food delivered to the building (Chick-Fil-A, Chipotle, pizza, etc.) unless it is an organization-sponsored event with approval by the Administration.

Animals/Personal Pets Policy

Service animals are allowed. Personal pets such as dogs, cats, and others are not permitted. Consequences could include Friday School and in school suspension.

Behavior which interferes with instruction is considered a serious violation of BHS policies. The teacher has the right and responsibility to retain order in the classroom. The severity of the consequence will depend on the extent of the disruption.

Displays of Affection

BHS recognizes that genuine feelings of affection may exist between students. However, students should refrain from inappropriate, intimate behaviors on campus or at school related events and activities. Students are always expected to show good taste and conduct themselves as ladies and gentlemen. The limit for affection shown on the Brentwood High School campus is that of holding hands.

Lunch Behavior

Lunch is a normal period and is subject to the same attendance rules as a classroom.

• All students shall remain on campus. Students are to eat lunch in designated areas and remain there until dismissed.
• Seniors only will be allowed to eat in the senior courtyard if the courtyard remains clean.
• Students are to deposit any remaining food or trash in the trash containers. Students failing to take care of their trash will be assigned cleaning responsibilities. Students are not to throw food or any other object. Flagrant cases of throwing food or other objects are punishable by in-school suspension on the first offense.
• Students sitting in the hallways must move their legs when someone is passing through the area.

Failure to follow the expectations will result in being assigned to a table in the cafeteria per the discretion of an administrator.

Social Media/Internet  Behavior

WCS students are responsible for their own behavior when communicating with social media. They will be held accountable for the content of the communications posted on social media sites. Students should recognize they are creating a digital footprint that could remain with them beyond their K-12 school experience with potentially permanent and irreversible results. Students should exercise caution when they use exaggeration, humor, explicit language, and characterizations in all online communication.

• Students should not use the district nor school logo in any posting without written permission from Williamson County Schools.
• Students participating in any social media site are not permitted to post photographs of other students or WCS employees without permission from a teacher or administrator.
• Students should always protect their privacy and the privacy of others. Students should not give out any personal information online.
• Students should not utilize personal social media accounts or unapproved social media sites during the school day.
• Personal social media use, including use outside the school day, has the potential to result in disruption in the classroom. Students are subject to consequences for inappropriate, unauthorized, and illegal use of social media.

Parking Policy

Parking on school property is a privilege, not a right that may be afforded to high school students. Permission for students to park private motor vehicles in school parking lots during the school day must be secured from the principal. Students who wish to drive to park at their school shall comply with rules and regulations established by BHS and policies established by the School Board policy 6.311. Prior to obtaining a parking pass, all current drivers and their parents must sign the Student/Parent Safe Driving Agreement after completing the district approved driver safety program. A failure of a student to comply with the local school rules and regulations and School Board policy may be reason for revocation of school driving and parking privileges as well as other disciplinary action. Any student who drives to Brentwood High School and parks in the school lot during school hours must obtain a permit. Students shall have a valid operator’s license, vehicle registration, and show evidence of maintaining the minimum state requirements of financial responsibility and/or insurance to be considered for parking permit. "By issuance of this permit, neither Brentwood High School nor the Williamson County Board assumes any liability for any property damage to any private motor vehicle, or items of personal property left in/on them, including parking permits, while the motor vehicle is parked or operated on school property. The owner/operators of all private motor vehicles accept responsibility for their own property, and they are parking at their own risk." Parking permits shall be always displayed on the front view mirror while on campus during school and school activities. BHS School discipline shall include warning, detention, Friday School, and administrative review to determine if student shall have the privilege to drive and park on BHS property.

Parking Procedures:

Only students who have registered their vehicle through Brentwood High School may park on campus. BHS students who are new drivers and their parents are required to complete the WCS Check Points, driving safety program. Students must always park in the appropriate parking lot spaces shown below with the BHS parking tag hanging from the rearview mirror:

• Seniors: Any available lot but not spots designated for faculty, staff, or visitors
• Juniors: Lots A, B or STEM
• Sophomores: Lot A or STEM

Students parking in Lot C must remove their vehicles by 3:15p.m. each day during marching band season. This lot is used immediately after school for band practice. Vehicles not moved by 3:15 PM will be towed at the owner's expense.

Students must obey all traffic signals, arrows, and laws. Students should drive courteously and safely and not drive over grass, medians, or curbs. The speed limit is 10 mph.

Once arriving at school each day, all occupants of the vehicle must promptly enter the building. Students are not allowed to reenter the parking lot at any time during the school day until being appropriately dismissed from school, unless they obtain direct permission from an administrator.

Parking Passes:

• Students apply for a parking pass online. The parking pass can be paid online or by check or cash. The cost of a parking tag is $15 per school year. If lost, the parking tag must be replaced by purchasing a new tag for the full amount.
• Parking tags are non-transferable. Students are not to sell, give, or lend their tags to anyone else.
• Students without a parking tag must see Dr. Simmons in advance if needing to drive to school temporarily, even if it is for only one day.
• Again, to enable administration and safety officers to conduct supervision; parking passes shall always hang from the front rear view mirror while on BHS campus.

Student parking is a privilege. Any violation of the rules could result in detention, ISS, loss of driving/parking privileges, or towing of the vehicle at the driver’s expense.

Bus Rider Procedures

Bus Rules: These guidelines are for the safety of the students:

• Follow directions the first time they are given.
• Stay properly seated in your assigned seat.
• Keep your hands to yourself.
• No yelling, profanity, or rude gestures.
• No spitting, spitballs, paper throwing, or throwing objects out the windows.
• No eating, drinking, use of tobacco products, gum chewing or littering.
• No horseplay, wrestling, or fighting.
• No destruction of property (restitution will be made).

To ensure a safe and orderly means of transportation, the following guidelines are established for all riders:

• Be at the bus stop prior to the arrival of the school bus.
• Wait away from the curb until the bus comes to a complete stop.
• Go directly to an available seat and be seated. Keep aisles and exits clear.
• Keep noise at classroom level. No profanity, eating, or drinking on the bus.
• Keep hands, head, and objects inside the bus. Respect the rights and property of others.
• Obey the driver promptly and respectfully.
• Remain seated until the bus has come to a complete stop.
• Use the emergency door only in an emergency.
• No drugs, weapons, hazardous materials, or animals are permitted on the bus.
• No objects permitted on the bus, which cannot be held in the student’s lap.
• No throwing or passing objects allowed on, from, or into the bus.
• Drivers may assign and reassign regular seats to students on the bus for disciplinary reasons.
• Students must never cross the road from the rear of the bus.
• Students are not permitted to exit the bus for shopping or personal business.
• Video cameras may be installed on the bus to record student behavior.
• Student misbehavior recorded on video may be used to discipline that student. 

Bus Notes

• Need to be turned in to Student Services in the morning in exchange for a Bus Pass. The bus note needs to be handwritten and signed by a parent of the student riding a different bus. It MUST include that student’s name and grade, the name and grade of the student whose bus they are riding, as well as the bus number and the address they are riding to.