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. 

Academic Integrity and Honor Code
Academic excellence is a hallmark of Page High School, and we firmly believe that each student should take pride in achieving success on his or her 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 him or her achieve ultimate success. As a community, we ask each student to pledge to complete his or her work with academic integrity and take pride in the great accomplishment that comes with graduating from Page High School.
The following definitions will be used when considering infractions:

• Cheating:
  • Communicating with another student during any form of evaluation (e.g., quiz, test, etc.)
  • Copying or allowing copying in ANY testing situation
  • Copying or allowing copying of any homework or classwork unless specifically allowed by the teacher
  • Using unauthorized notes or technology in ANY capacity
  • Submitting falsified information for grading purposes
  • Obtaining, relaying, distributing, and/or receiving a copy of and/or information about an examination or test without the teacher’s knowledge
  • Using technology to create a product, in part or whole, that you claim as your own
  • Collaboration when directed by the teacher to not collaborate (study or project collaboration is not considered cheating unless otherwise directed by the teacher
• Plagiarism
  • Presenting or borrowing the words, works, ideas, arrangements, and/or opinions of someone else without proper acknowledgement (e.g., failing to cite a quote copied directly from a book or a paper)
• Lying and Forgery
  • Intentionally telling an untruth or falsehood to administrators, faculty members, and other staff
  • Falsifying any school document including notes and passes
  • Signing any signature other than one’s own

Consequences:

• FIRST OFFENSE
  • Forfeiture of credit for the work, resulting in a zero score
  • Conference with an administrator, including the parent(s), student, and teacher
  • Friday School (3:05-5:05) assigned by an appropriate administrator, during which the student will research the academic integrity policies of multiple post-secondary institutions
  • Possible suspension from leadership positions and/or honor societies, as detailed in organization guidelines
• SECOND OFFENSE
  • Forfeiture of credit for the work, resulting in a zero score
  • Conference with an administrator, including the parent(s), student, and teacher at the discretion of the administrator
  • Documentation of the infraction/disciplinary action added to student’s record
  • Expulsion from all honor societies and leadership positions for a time to be decided by the administrator
  • In-School-Suspension (ISS) for a number of days to be determined by the administrator
• THIRD OFFENSE and beyond
  • Previous actions, with possible juvenile court involvement

The Athletic Department of Page High School strives for a drug-free environment. We expect a healthy lifestyle for all of our athletes. Drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or any other negative life choice that hinders the full development of the individual is discouraged. Individuals who choose to partake in these prohibited substances will be disciplined by an administrator and the incident reported to the coach(es) of the individual sport(s) in which the student participates. The individual will be suspended from all Page athletics teams for one academic school year. In addition to the normal school consequences for the infraction, each coach has, at his/her option, a range of penalties, which include extra drills, probation, suspension, and/or termination from participation in a particular sport. It is the responsibility of each coach to help our youth who participate in athletics to reach their maximum potential and, in doing so, coaches reserve the right to insure that our programs have the highest possible standards for participants, both physically and academically.

Athletic Eligibility
To be eligible to participate in athletics, a student must have passed five credits the previous semester. Students failing to pass five subjects during any semester will be ineligible the following semester. Student academic progress is monitored during the semester also, and athletes failing to make satisfactory progress may be temporarily suspended from athletic competition at the discretion of
the coach or may be placed on probation until progress is made. Each student must pass a physical examination before being allowed to participate or practice with any athletic team. Each student must adhere to all the rules and regulations of the team. An athlete assigned to ISS is still required to practice but will not be eligible to participate in one game that week.

Spectator Code of Conduct
As representatives of the Page community, we ask that all spectators conduct themselves in a positive sportsman like manner. Spectators should support their team by refraining from derogatory remarks, chants or cheers. Any spectator/s found to be in violation of this code will be dismissed from the event and subject to suspension from future events. Additionally, the violator(s) will be responsible for paying the fine that is assessed by the state governing body TSSAA ($250).

It is our expectation that all Page High School students will attend school every day when school is in session. We appreciate the support of parents in reaching that goal. Regular, uninterrupted attendance is an essential ingredient in the learning process. The state of Tennessee requires each school to maintain an average daily attendance (AYP) rate of 95%.

Excused Absences
Parents are to send a note/email to Karen Haverty or a medical excuse to school within 48 hours following the absence. If parents only make contact by phone, the absences will be considered unexcused; when a student’s absences exceed 8 days, a doctor’s note will be required to excuse any additional absence. 

WCS Board Policy 6.200 defines excused absences as:

• Personal illness/injury. The principal may require a doctor’s statement.
• Illness in the immediate family, which requires absence of the student from school. A doctor’s statement may be required.
• Death in the immediate family. Absence should not exceed 5 days.
• Extreme weather conditions.
• Religious holidays are regularly observed by people of the student’s faith. A statement from the minister or other person recognized by the given religious group may be required.
• Pregnancy.
• School-endorsed activities.
• Summons, subpoena, or court order.
• Absences for other reasons as approved by the administration.

When a student has a total of 8 absences, all additional absences will be considered unexcused unless a doctor’s note is presented within 48 hours of the absence. Truancy Interventions will occur with a tiered approach according to state guidelines.

Early Dismissal

Any student requesting an early dismissal must present a note signed by his parent/guardian in the Main Office or emailed to Karen Haverty by 7:50. All notes should contain the date, specific reason for leaving, the parent/guardian’s signature, and the parent/guardian’s daytime phone number. The parent/guardian will be contacted to verify the note prior to student release and students will be given a pass for dismissal to the office at the appropriate time. In an effort to preserve instruction time and minimize classroom disruption, students will remain in class until the next class change if a note is not provided in advance (except in emergency situations). Students feeling ill must go to the clinic to see the nurse in order to be cleared for early dismissal. Students leaving without following the procedures of an early dismissal will be considered skipping and will face disciplinary action.

Early Dismissal and Return on the Same Day

Students must follow the same procedures listed above and sign back in at the Main Office upon returning to the building and receive a pass to return to class.

Athletic or Extra-Curricular Activities

Students who are ill and unable to attend school on the day of an athletic or extracurricular activity will not be permitted to participate on that date. Students involved in extracurricular and athletic activities are expected to arrive at school on time and remain at school for the entire day. Any exceptions to this policy must be approved by an administrator.

Field Trips

A field trip will not count as an absence, but students will be responsible for making up all the work. The field trip sponsor will send a list of all students attending the field trip to the attendance secretary one week prior to departure. Only required field trips will be allowed after April 1.

Clinic

A student should report to class before requesting a pass to the clinic, guidance, or Main Office. The absence will be considered unexcused for that class period and others that are missed if this procedure is not followed. An assessment will be made by the nurse. Students who drive will be allowed to drive home if their condition and the parent/guardian allow. Students are not allowed to call parents and leave school without following the listed procedures. Failure to follow the rules will result in disciplinary action.

Late Arrival to School/Class

• All doors other than the door into the Main Office will be locked at the beginning of the school day (7:50). Any student who arrives late for school will enter through the Main Office. Students should not open any outside doors to anyone.
• If a student arrives at school after the beginning bell has rung, a tardy pass will be issued by the Main Office. Tardy is excused only if
  • The student was ill (must have a note from parents)
  • The student had an appointment (must have a note from a doctor)
• All other tardies are unexcused and will be assigned detention (see below).
• If a student arrives for class after the tardy bell has rung, a detention will be assigned (see below). If a student is more than 10 minutes late, he/she must have a note from a teacher or the Main Office. If a note is not presented, the teacher will refer the student to the office for skipping.

Tardy Detention Policy

• Detention is served after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays (3:05-4:05).
• Students earn a detention for every tardy after one (1) warning per semester.
• Students serving detentions must report on time. Students who are tardy to detention will not be admitted. Students must bring textbooks and/or schoolwork or assignments will be given.
• If students refuse to study or follow the detention supervisor’s instruction, they will be sent home without credit for detention and referred for administrative action.
• No sleeping, talking, or food is allowed in the detention sessions or Friday School.
• Only medical emergencies will be considered as excused reasons for missing detention. Students will need to bring a note from their physician by 7:50AM on the first scheduled day of school after the missed detention. Students cannot use work or athletic practices as an excuse to miss detention.
• If a student misses detention, he/she is subject to Friday School (every Friday 3:05-5:05).
• If a student is absent from school on their assigned detention date, the detention must be served the next scheduled detention day.

Unexcused Absences
Accumulating absences after truancy intervention has occurred may result in juvenile court involvement.

Lunch is a normal period and is subject to the same attendance rules as a classroom. Students are to remain in the building or outside in the appropriately designated areas. Leaving campus for lunch is not allowed. It is considered skipping and will result in ISS. Going to cars must require an administrator’s approval.

No outside food (fast food, take-out etc.) can be delivered to a student.

No backpacks are allowed in the serving line.

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 with 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 - $200
• Multi-part Chromebook repair - $100
• Lost power cord with AC adapter - $40
• Broken screen - $75
• Broken hinge - $25
• Keyboard - $20

While we realize that students forget items at home, we encourage parents to allow their students to take responsibility for their own things. Items that are dropped off in the Main Office will only be delivered during a student’s study hall or lunch. Items such as balloons and flowers will not be released to students until the end of the day. Due to the nature of our lunch period, we will not accept outside food (fast food, take-out, delivery services). Classes will not be disrupted unless it is in regards to an early dismissal or is authorized by administration.

State law now specifically prohibits students from possessing or using tobacco products (including smokeless tobacco) on school grounds. Students in violation are to be cited to juvenile court with fines ranging from $10.00 to $100.00 per offense and community
service as the minimum penalty. 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. Possession of tobacco in student vehicles on campus may
cause students to lose parking privileges. This includes E-Cigs and Vapor Devices. Devices will be confiscated and destroyed. 

Cell Phones, I-Pods, MP3 Players

These devices may be used in non-instructional locations. If used during instructional time, the device will be collected by the teacher and, if egregious, submitted to the grade level administrator. Student refusal to hand over the device could result in suspension.
Devices will be returned to the student at the end of the instructional period (from teacher) or day (from administrator).
Continued and/or serious violations could result in long-term device suspension.
The use of any electronic device during testing will result in disciplinary action.

For transfer students, the cumulative GPA on the transcript for transferred work will be used without any recalculation other than conversion to a 4-point scale, except that honors and Advanced Placement courses will be recalculated to match the Williamson County Schools’ scale.

Semester final exams are not required for those high school seniors who have maintained a 90 average, have NO unexcused absences (excluding college visitation days approved in advance by the Principal) during the semester and have not been suspended during the semester.

The Averaging Policy for certain courses allows students to gain full credit even though they failed the first semester. This is possible only if the average of both semester grades is 70 or better. However, credit will not be given when the second semester grade is a failing grade. Summer school courses are not part of this policy. This policy applies only to courses in which a student must master first semester skills and concepts in order to be successful in second semester: Math, World Languages, Chemistry and Physics. If a student is successful under this policy, the Report Card/Transcript credits are only changed to reflect the fact. The earned credit for the second semester of the course is changed manually from .5 to 1.0. Grades remain on record as earned.

Testing for credit is possible for students who have completed work or a course equivalent to a high school level course (except U.S. History). Students must score 70 or better on the examination in order to receive credit towards graduation. The course name and a course grade of “Pass” with no grade point (G.P.A.) value will be entered on the transcript with the notation Credit by Exam. Home-schooled students entering Page High must pass the County Common Comprehensive Assessments for those courses completed at home in order to receive credit for those courses at PHS. Grading and transcript notation will follow the procedures of testing for credit.

Credit Recovery is a program that allows students to recover credits (Max: 6 Credits) required for graduation. Students must contact their school counselor. A grade of 50 for the class failed is required to qualify for Credit Recovery. A fee of $50.00 per semester class is required. Credit Recovery is not an option for Algebra I; a remediation program is required to fulfill the credit requirement.
Credit Recovery must be completed in the building during study hall, PrimeTime, after school, and/or summer break.

The transcript is a historical document showing all courses taken in high school. Letters, not numbers, are used in reporting grades on the official transcript. All grades, passing and failing, are permanently recorded on the transcript. When a course is failed and then repeated during the regular school year, the new grade does not replace the failed grade. The course and new grade are added to the transcript and averaged into the cumulative GPA.

Percentage Points for Advanced Coursework

1. Students enrolled in honors courses will get 3 percentage points added to their grade each semester.
2. Students enrolled in local and statewide dual credit courses will receive 4 additional percentage points added to each semester's grade. The state requires statewide dual credit students to take the challenge exam, and students must take the final required for local dual credit courses.
3. Students enrolled in industry certification courses may earn 4 additional percentage points added to each semester grade. For the first semester, the teacher will add the 4 points. For the second semester, students must sit for the appropriate exam in order to earn the 4 additional percentage points.
4. Students enrolled in AP and IB courses may earn an additional 5 percentage points added to each semester's grade if they sit for the AP or IB exam. For the first semester of an AP or IB class, the teacher will add 5 percentage points to the grade. For the second semester, the student must sit for the exam in order to earn the additional 5 percentage points.
5. Dual enrollment courses are assessed on a pass/fail basis.

Quality Points

1. One-half quality point shall be added to the numerical point value of the letter grade received for students in an honors course or an industry certification course.
2. Three-fourths of quality points shall be added to the numerical point value of the letter grade received for students in a statewide or local dual credit course.
3. One full quality point shall be added to the numerical point value of the letter grade received for students in AP or IB courses.

College courses taken for college credit, even when taken for dual high school/college credit, are recorded as pass or fail with no grade point (GPA) value.

The WCS grading system for grades 9-12 is as follows:
Grade Grade Range
A 90 – 100
B 80 – 89
C 70 – 79
D 60 – 69
F Below 60
I Incomplete
P/F Pass/Fail

The calculation of the GPA is determined by dividing the sum of the quality points, including accelerated quality points, by the total courses attempted. Credit given to all courses taken in high school is counted. Grade point averages (GPA) are calculated on the following the graduated 4-point scale with an additional grade point weighting of 0.5 for Honors courses and 1.0 for Advanced Placement (A.P.).

Letter     Grade     Numeric Value    Regular     Honors /AP
A             90-100     4                           4.5             5.0
B             80-89       3                           3.5             4.0
C             70-79       2                           2.5             3.0
D             60-69       1                           1.5             2.0
F              0-59         0                           0                0

Each student can be issued a locker. Do not distribute your locker combination. The following rules apply to lockers (combinations
are kept in the Main Office):
• Do not deface or damage any part of your locker.
• Do not switch lockers without administration approval.
• Do not leave food, soda cans, etc., in lockers for extended periods of time.
• The student assigned that locker will be held responsible for all the contents of that locker.
• Students are reminded that lockers are property of the school. Student lockers may be searched if there exists a “reasonable
suspicion” that the locker contains any item is either illegal or inappropriate.
• Keep lockers locked at all times. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items out of the lockers.

The lost and found is in the main office. Students can come to the office before school, in between classes or after school to check to see if their lost item has been turned in.

While we realize that students forget items at home, we encourage parents to allow their students to take responsibility for their own
things. Items that are dropped off in the Main Office will only be delivered during a student’s study hall or lunch. Items such as balloons
and flowers will not be released to students until the end of the day. Due to the nature of our lunch period, we will not accept outside
food (fast food, take-out, delivery services). Classes will not be disrupted unless it is in regards to an early dismissal or is authorized by administration.

The Patriot Period serves as a method to provide students with additional tutoring, ACT preparation, Senior Project, Credit Recovery, and remediation & quiz/test makeup during the school day. Teachers and/or Administrators assign students to Patriot Period as needed and a list is sent through Schoology each day. It is each student’s responsibility to check the list; attendance is mandatory. Failure to attend assigned Patriot Period sessions could result in detention, ISS, and in some cases, an unruly petition filed with juvenile services.

Students take six courses for credit and one study period. Students wishing to take a seventh course and have no study period must submit a request form signed by a parent. After the Master Schedule is finished, seven course requests will be scheduled only if scheduling permits. A request form can be obtained from the Counseling Center. If a parent wishes to override a recommendation made by the school pertaining to the student’s schedule, the student must remain in the class the parent selected until its completion. An override form can be obtained from the Counseling Center.

Registration for next year’s courses is from February through May of 2024. Page High School sets the number of sections and builds its Master Schedule based entirely on student requests for courses. The spring registration determines the courses the school will offer the following fall. Once the Master Schedule has been created, students are obligated to take the courses they requested. In other words, students will not be allowed to change their minds in August or September or January. Students and parents, therefore, should plan their schedules in a thoughtful, careful manner to match their abilities and their educational needs.

The Only Changes Allowed in August: Valid schedule change requests are considered only through the first ten (10) school days. The only valid schedule corrections are to update course selections based on classes completed over the summer or to correct a scheduling error made by the school. Valid course or level changes do not include dropping a level because students change their minds over the summer, want a different teacher, desire a more favorable schedule, have not done the summer reading or desire to have classes with friends.

No Dropping in Level: Students who requested and received teacher recommendation/parent override and parent approval for Honors or Advanced Placement courses in the spring will be obligated to take these courses in the fall. Full-Year Courses Last One Year: Full-year courses may not be dropped at the end of the first semester, even if the course does not fulfill a core requirement. The usual consideration is whether the student has been academically misplaced.

Problems with A Class:
A student who is experiencing problems in a class will not be removed from the class outside the policies stated above. When problems develop, the following procedures should be followed:
1. The student should consult the teacher for ways to improve or receive extra help.
2. The student is expected to engage in the solutions offered by the course instructor. This may include but is not limited to individual tutoring with the teacher, small group tutoring offered before or after school, or additional remediation projects.
3. If the problem still exists, the parent should talk to the teacher. Conversation can occur over the phone or through email, but the best communication is still person to person.
4. If the problem continues to exist, the parent can request a school meeting that includes the teacher, the student, the parent(s), the appropriate school counselor, and the grade-level assistant principal. This team will form a plan of action.

Courses Must Be Taken in Sequence: Students must pass one level of a course before they take the next level of the same course. Therefore, students must pass both semesters of Spanish I before they can take Spanish II. In particular, students must pass English I before they can take English II, English II before they can take English III, and so on. Sequence courses in the same subject may not be taken concurrently or in reverse order. Students must sign up for credit recovery to complete a sequence of courses they have failed, especially for English, which is required every year, so they will be able to graduate within the normal time-span of four years. Students who do not attend summer school to make up sequence courses they have failed risk becoming a 5th-year senior in order to graduate.

The primary purpose of Page High School is teaching and learning. For this purpose to be fulfilled, every person—student and staff—must accept the responsibility for contributing to an appropriate teaching and learning climate:

• Students are reminded that these rules are applicable at any time the student is on any school grounds, en route to and from school, during all school activities on or off campus, and at all times the student is under the supervision of school officials.
• It is considered a fundamental understanding by each student and his/her parents that any teacher or school official has not only the right, but also the duty to insist on good behavior. The right of discipline extends to all areas of the school program.
• Respect the worth and dignity of each individual and respect the rights of fellow students.
• Exhibit good behavior and manners, dress appropriately, and use appropriate language.
• Come to school with the attitude that the purpose of being at school is to learn.
• Come to all classes with proper tools (books, pencils, etc.) and with all assignments completed.
• Be familiar with and adhere to all school policies and rules, and be willing to accept the responsibilities that accompany rights and privileges.
• Attend school regularly and be on time for all classes.
• Turn in all assignments by their due date.
• Treat others in a manner that builds them up rather than puts them down.
• Seek to make the school better for everyone by positive contributions.
• Represent the school with pride and quality behavior, both on and off campus.
• Exhibit a sense of pride toward the school and exercise proper use and care of equipment and facilities.

Assemblies

At all assemblies, all Page High School students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the nature of the program. Full attention is to be given to any speaker or program participant. Unacceptable behavior will result in removal from the assembly and other disciplinary procedures.

Bus Conduct

Bus riding is a privilege which may be revoked due to misconduct or misbehavior en route to and from school.
Consequences: First violation: written warning to student/parent(s) by driver; Second violation: conference with Principal, parent(s), student, and Transportation Official; Third violation: suspension from the school bus. Multiple offenses will be treated as second and/or third offenses. These consequences are the MINIMUM. The principal has full authority to discipline students as he/she determines
to be appropriate to protect the safety of students.

Cafeteria

Lunch is a normal period and is subject to the same attendance rules as a classroom. Students have to remain in the building or outside in the appropriately designated areas. Leaving campus for lunch is not allowed. It is considered skipping and will result in ISS. Going to cars must require an administrator’s approval.

Fighting

Students involved in a fight will be suspended and referred to the ALC and are subject to a petition being filed in Juvenile Court. Students are encouraged to seek conflict resolution from school principals, school counselors, the STARS counselor, or teachers in an effort to resolve the problem prior to an outbreak of fighting. In most instances, situations leading to fights can be resolved if pre-fight intervention occurs. Students found to be inciting, setting up, or causing a fight may also be suspended.

Forgery

Falsifying records including, but not limited to a parent's signature, staff signature, misrepresentation on the phone, etc., will be treated as forgery. Any student presenting a forged document or note, or participating in forgery will be subject to disciplinary action.

Honesty

Academic honesty is of paramount importance because it supports the integrity of academic study at our school. The personal integrity of all involved and good practice in teaching, learning, and assessment. Intellectual and creative expression is typically protected by law and must be respected. Legal protection includes, but is not limited to, patent, trademark, and copyright considerations. Through the practice of academic honesty, the PHS community will also help to reduce the illegal out of school activities that may result in legal proceedings.

Insubordination:

Insubordination is a refusal by the student to follow a directive from an authority figure. Failing to identify oneself when requested by any staff member; failing to follow directions or instructions; and/or failure to give up an electronic device to an authority figure is insubordination and will result in disciplinary action.

Skipping Class

Student safety and security is paramount, and school authorities must know the whereabouts of everyone on campus. Skipping means that a student is not in the assigned location, and was not given permission by any school authority to be elsewhere. This can include missing part of a class, all of a class, or multiple classes without the prior approval of parents and/or office staff or of the teacher whose class is being missed. Arriving more than 10 minutes late to a class without an excused note will be considered skipping. Lunch, Patriot Period, study hall, pep rallies, and assemblies are class periods. Since skipping is a safety violation, the penalty will most often be ISS (a restriction of movement around campus) and possible loss of parking privileges. Repeated violators may be referred to Juvenile Court and the ALC. Seniors are reminded that any form of suspension means a loss of exam exemptions.

Social Media

Students are not allowed to access social networks at any time during the school day for non-academic purposes. This is a violation of the Acceptable Use Agreement and could result in disciplinary action.

Textbooks

Students are responsible for their own textbooks when they are signed out to them and are responsible for returning them at the end of each year. Failure to return books or loss of textbooks will result in paying a fine.

Theft

Stealing in no way will be tolerated. Stealing in any form will result in disciplinary action or even a juvenile court petition. 

Trespassing

Students are not allowed in the school building or on school grounds without staff supervision. Students found entering the building during off-school hours without staff supervision will be charged with trespassing.

Vandalism

No student will intentionally damage or deface any school building, school-owned property, or personal property located at the school. A police report will be filed and full restitution will be required. Students who commit or are involved in vandalism may be placed in In-School Suspension, suspended from school, placed in the ALC, and/or criminal charges may be filed. This includes, but not limited to, “pranks”.