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.

Version Date: July 19, 2022

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.

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

See school website for information about activities, club, and organizations.

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 would prefer these forms on paper, you may contact your front office. See WCS website (here) for more information about open enrollment and other enrollment options.

Student Fees

Visit the Students Fees page on the WCS website 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

Visit the Bus Routes & School Zones page on WCS website 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.

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.

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. 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.

Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment may be defined as physical contact and is distinguished from a reprimand, a suspension, or an expulsion. Corporal punishment shall not be administered as a method of correcting inappropriate behavior in Williamson County Schools per WCSB Policy 6.314.

Discipline

Discipline in Williamson County Schools is student centered, responsive, and timely. Students will be responsible for abiding by the district’s Student Code of Conduct, WCS Board of Education Policy 6.300. Consequences for inappropriate student conduct are stepped and may include, but are not limited to, detention such as Friday or Saturday School, In-School Suspension, Out-of-School Suspension, and Alternative Learning Center placement.

Disciplinary Hearing Authority

A Disciplinary Hearing Authority (DHA) shall conduct appeals for students who have been suspended for more than ten (10) school days. Upon receiving notification of the request to appeal the suspension decision, the DHA shall provide written notification to the parent(s)/guardian(s)of the student, the student, and any other appropriate person of the time, place, and date of the hearing. The hearing shall be held no later than ten (10) days after the beginning of the suspension.

For more information, refer to Williamson County Board of Education Policy 6.309.

Dress Code

Students should dress appropriately for comfort, weather and learning. Students will follow the guidelines set forth by Williamson County School Board policy 6.310. 

1. Tops of shoulders must have a minimum of a 1-inch strap unless otherwise covered by an opaque top garment;
2. Skin and undergarments must be covered with opaque clothing from the underarm to mid-thigh.
3. Mid-thigh is defined as the mid-point between the waist and mid-knee;
4. All pants, trousers, shorts and skirts must be held at the waist;
5. Leggings and other compression-style garments may be worn so long as an opaque top garment covers the private body parts;
6. Hats may be worn in buildings on special occasion as permitted by administration;
7. Appropriate shoes are required;
8. Tennis shoes with non-marking soles are required for physical education.
9. It is recommended that students wear tennis shoes for recess.  Please do not send students in flip flops or shoes without a back as this can result in injury.

Any type of clothing, apparel or accessory, including that which denotes such students' membership in or affiliation with any gang associated with criminal activities is not permitted (TCA 49-6-4215).

Student uniforms related to student extra-curricular activities (band, cheerleading, dance, sports team, etc.) must be in compliance with this policy during the academic day.

Any apparel or dress that advertises or promotes products or activity prohibited by law or by the Williamson County Board of Education is prohibited (e.g., profanity, illustrations, or suggestive language, etc).

Administrators and teachers shall enforce the dress code policy. The principal or his/her designee shall be the final judge as to compliance with the dress code.  Parents/guardians will be notified and asked to bring appropriate clothing if a student is in violation of the dress code.

Interrogation and Searches

See Williamson County Board of Education policy 6.303 for more information regarding interrogation and searches of personal belongings and lockers.

Student Discrimination/Harassment/Bullying/Intimidation

Williamson County Schools has determined that a safe, civil, and supportive environment in school is necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards. In order to maintain that environment, acts of bullying, cyber-bullying, discrimination, harassment, hazing, or any other victimization of students, based on any actual or perceived traits or characteristics, are prohibited.

Bullying is not tolerated. We ask all parents/guardians and students to report any bullying to a teacher or staff member in the building. The report will be investigated by administration within 48 hours.  The investigation and required intervention will be implemented within 20 calendar days.  Administration will notify the parent(s)/guardian(s) of all students involved.  Administration will also provide information regarding any support services available. Administration will follow investigation procedures and definitions set forth in WCS Board Policy 6.304. Behavior that is found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to discipline, up to and including suspension as deemed by administration.

Definition:  Bullying is defined by Tennessee law as any act that substantially interferes with a student’s educational benefits, opportunities, or performance.  Bullying is: 1) repeated, 2) intentional harm, 3) against someone perceived with less power. 

Bullying has the effect of:

1. Physically harming a student or damaging a student’s property.
2. Knowingly placing the student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student’s property.
3. Causing emotional distress to a student or students; or
4. Creating a hostile educational environment.

If a student needs help with resolving a conflict or if a student feels that he/she is being bullied, he/she should communicate with a staff member such as a teacher, counselor, or administration.

If a student or parent/guardian does not feel comfortable reporting a bullying incident directly to a WCS teacher or administrator, he/she can submit a Bullying Report. The student can leave his/her name or submit the report anonymously. An incident can also be reported through the WCS App. Falsifying reports will not be tolerated, and consequences will be given if it is determined that a bullying report has been falsified.

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; and
   
   
4. Assault that results in bodily injury upon any teacher, principal, administrator, any other employee of the school, or school resource officer.

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

Arrival

Students may enter the building beginning at 6:45 AM for early WCS bus routes and students report to the gym. Unless being transported on an early wcs bus route, the doors to the school will not open for students to enter before 7:10 AM.

The doors will open at 7:10 AM for car riders and walkers/bikers. Those students will enter through the cafeteria doors. 

Students may then stay in the cafeteria to eat breakfast or report to the gym. 

Regular bus route students will enter at 7:25.  Students will enter and go to breakfast or to lockers to prepare for the school day. 

Students cannot be dropped off at the car rider line or anywhere else on campus before 7:10 AM.

The parking lot to the left of the front office is for buses only. Parents may not enter this area during arrival or dismissal. 

Walkers and Bikers 

Students should not arrive on campus before 7:10 AM.  

There are bike racks available in the front  near the car rider line where these students will enter.

Students must provide their own lock for their bicycle.  

Students who normally walk or ride a bike to school must have a permission note from parents/guardians on file in the office. 

Car Rider Drop Off

The car rider drop off lane will be to the right of the front office for dismissal, and 
students will enter through the cafeteria doors.  

The unloading zone (beginning and end) will be clearly marked.  We will not allow students to exit a car that is not within the parameters of the unloading zone. 

Parents should follow the directions of staff on car duty at all times. 

Students must have backpacks, lunch boxes, etc., ready to exit the vehicle.

Parents who need to come into the building should use the front parking lot and enter through the main entrance.

Car rider lane closes at 7:38;  
Parents arriving in the car rider lane area after 7:38 must park and go inside to sign the student in as tardy. This policy will not be strictly enforced during the first two weeks of school as students and families get back into a routine after summer break.

Dismissal: 

Bus Riders:
Bus riders will be dismissed after afternoon announcements which begin at 2:41. Buses will be dismissed between 2:45 and 2:47.

Car Riders:
All vehicles in the car rider pick up lane must have an SSMS car rider tag! This policy will be strictly enforced.
Parents/guardians without a tag will be asked to park in the parking lot, enter the front office, and show an id before students are dismissed. Please pull all the way down to the marked cone in the car rider lane when you arrive. Do not leave more than 2 feet between cars.

For safety reasons, we will not dismiss cars until all cars are loaded with students. If a student is not outside in the car rider line when their vehicle arrives, we will ask the parent to pull around for the next load or park in the parking lot in order to keep traffic flowing.

The loading zone (beginning and end) will be clearly marked.

We will not allow students to get into a car that is not within the parameters of the loading zone.

Students should be picked up from the car rider line no later than 3:15 pm. Parents of students left after 3:15 PM will be notified that they are in violation of school policy and their child may be required to ride the bus home for the remainder of the school year.

Walkers and Bikers:

Students who normally walk or ride a bike in the afternoon must have a permission note from parents/guardians on file in the office.

Students that are walking or riding a bike home will exit the campus promptly upon dismissal from staff over the intercom after announcements.  

Walkers and bikers should exit the building and leave campus in the direction of home or SHS as soon as possible. 

Students are not allowed to ride or walk around campus once school is dismissed.

Afternoon Transportation Changes: 

Changes in afternoon transportation should be made before 2:15 PM. 
Phone calls will NOT be accepted except in case of an emergency.  

Parents must send an email to an SSMS Office Staff member:

Tami Bell

Trish Pfaender 

Tardy Students:

All students are required to be in their assigned classroom by 7:40 AM. Students arriving inside the building after 7:38 AM. (not in their classroom by 7:40), must be signed in by a parent/guardian in the main office. He/she is to receive a tardy pass to enter class.

Excused tardies require a doctor’s note to be excused, although a parent note does not guarantee a tardy will be excused. 

Please note that “traffic” is not considered an excuse for being tardy. (Exceptions will be made at SSMS administrators’ discretion for a confirmed traffic incident within the SSMS school zone.)

Additionally, “car trouble” or “missed the bus” are not accepted as excused tardies for a student arriving late for school. 

A regular pattern of morning tardies can become an attendance concern and will require a parent conference with administration. Parents are strongly urged to schedule dental and medical appointments outside of the school day. 

Consequences for Unexcused Tardies to School:

Tardies will reset each semester.

Five tardies: Thursday afternoon detention (2:45-3:45 p.m.) in the library

Ten or more tardies: Thursday afternoon detention (2:45-3:45 p.m.) in the library and parent conference with administration.  More severe consequences may be given if tardies continue after the parent/administration conference. 

Early Dismissal:

Parents should make an effort to contact the school office for early dismissal prior to student pick up. Students can only be signed out for early release by a parent, guardian, or other adult who is listed in Skyward as “Approved for Pick Up”.  
The adult picking the student up early must come into the office and show a valid picture ID before the student is called to the office for dismissal.  

This policy will be strictly enforced and students are not allowed to be dismissed from the office to a vehicle in the parking lot.   

Checking out and then returning to school on the same day will require a medical excuse.  

Students are not allowed to leave for lunch and then return to school.

In order to have a safe and orderly dismissal, early dismissals are not permitted after 2:15 PM.

Visitors

All visitors are required to present a valid photo ID, (driver’s license or work ID), sign in at the SSMS main office, and receive a Visitor’s badge before entering the building.  Student visitors from other schools are not allowed at SSMS

Volunteers

We welcome and appreciate parent volunteers at SSMS! We ask that parents adhere to the following procedures in order to protect our students and classroom instructional time.  Williamson County has a three-tiered volunteer guideline to protect children and to continue to maintain the high levels of volunteerism that we enjoy in our district. The three tiers include: 

• Tier 1-Someone who volunteers occasionally and in a highly public setting with little or no contact with students and who is under constant supervision by Williamson County Schools personnel will not be required to complete a volunteer application or a criminal background check. A volunteer fitting this example might be someone working at a school field day or fundraising or making an occasional classroom visit. 
• Tier 2-Regular volunteers with student contact under constant supervision of Williamson County personnel must complete a volunteer application and a confidentiality agreement acknowledging FERPA (student confidentiality) requirements. A volunteer fitting this example might include a room parent, class readers, and front door reception. A new application must be completed each new school year. 
• Tier 3-Volunteers who have unsupervised contact with students on or off campus will be required to complete a volunteer application and confidentiality agreement and have a criminal background. 

Procedures for Volunteers 

• Please complete the volunteer application and turn in to the office. 
• If you intend to go on field trips or volunteer in a Tier 3 capacity, please get your background check completed early.
• When you volunteer, please sign in with the main office and obtain a volunteer badge. 
• SSMS PTO is responsible for scheduling parent volunteers for our workroom.
• Please visit the PTO website for more information. 
• Please observe rules of confidentiality. If you work with or notice a student’s work, you are bound by rules of confidentiality.

School-Wide Student Expectations

S – Show respect to myself and others every day.

A – Act responsibly; it is the right thing to do.

T – Take pride in the work you produce and how you present yourself.

S -  Safe environment for all

Show Respect

• At SSMS we believe it is essential that we treat others the way we want to be treated.

• Students will respect all adults, students, and school property.

• Students will avoid language or actions that are inappropriate or hurtful to others. Profanity or negative conversations about others should not take place at SSMS.

• Students will use good manners in all settings related to school.

Act Responsibly

• Students will act responsibly and make choices that positively impact themselves and the people around them.

• Students will arrive at school on time and stay all day.

• Students will take pride in bringing all expected classroom materials, participating in all classroom activities, and completing all assignments to the best of their ability.

• If you make a mistake, admit it, and accept responsibility for it.
  
  

Take Pride

• Students will give their best effort and take pride in themselves and their school.  

• Students will take pride in working to maintain a clean and well-presented school campus.

• Students will take pride in how they treat others, including guests on our campus.   
  
  

Safe Environment for All

• All SSMS students should always feel safe (physically, mentally, and emotionally) while on our campus!

• Students should report any concerns, fears, or complaints to a staff member. 

• If you see something, say something!

• Students’ words and actions will reflect a commitment to the safety of themselves and others.

Imperatives at SSMS

In order to provide an exemplary educational experience at Spring Station Middle School, we expect students to abide by the following rules.

 

• Students are expected to follow directions given by staff the first time given.
• Students are expected to use a drawstring backpack for daily use in transitioning with Chromebooks from one classroom to another.  
• No textbooks or notebooks/binders should be placed in backpacks. 
• Students are expected to keep hands and feet to themselves and refrain from any aggressive or playful physical contact. 
• Students are expected to utilize an agenda in class every day. 
• Students are expected to have permission and a pass to be allowed into the hallway during instructional time.  
  
  

Positive Behavior Intervention Support – PBIS

SSMS is a PBIS school that focuses on positively reinforcing students for making good choices and having good behavior.  We expect every SSMS student to show respect, act responsibly, and take pride. To help with achieving the optimal learning environment, Spring Station Middle School implements a school­wide program that includes proactive strategies for teaching and supporting appropriate student behaviors to create a positive school environment. A range of positive behavior supports for all students will be implemented in both classroom and non­-classroom settings. Students will receive multiple orientations and reinforcements from teachers and administrators throughout the year about behavior expectations and how to be recognized for meeting expectations. 

PBIS Points:

SSMS believes in positively reinforcing students when they make great choices, particularly when they exceed the school’s expectations. Students can earn PBIS Points throughout the year when going above and beyond in the areas of showing respect, acting responsibility and taking pride.  Students can redeem their PBIS Points for various classroom rewards or privileges throughout the school year. 

PBIS Reward Celebrations:

Students also have the opportunity, through making good choices, to attend quarterly reward celebrations. While they will vary in format, these celebrations are designed to celebrate students for making good choices, as evidenced by not being assigned a suspension by administration or receiving 2 or more major referrals for the quarter; or failing a core subject due to multiple missing assignments or assessments. 

Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS)

Spring Station is committed to establishing and sustaining a positive school climate each academic year. Using our tiered PBIS program, we encourage and reinforce positive decision-making behavior to maximize the academic engagement and achievement of our students. We expect students to show RESPECT, act RESPONSIBLY, take PRIDE, and stay SAFE. In addition to praising and rewarding students for meeting our behavioral expectations, we utilize a structured consequence system to respond to student misbehavior. 

Level 1 Student Expectations
Level 1 Expectations establish a baseline for appropriate choices and actions which allow students to be on task and engaged in academic and social settings (including buses). 

• Follow grade level “imperative” behaviors 

• Arrive to class on time and be prepared with required materials 

• Complete all classroom and homework in a timely manner 

• Be an active participant in class 

• Remain on task when using technology 

• Speak and act in a kind, truthful and honest manner. 

• Calmly and safely transition through hallways 

• Follow the school’s dress code 

• Be aware of, and respect, the personal space of others 

• Handle school supplies, equipment, and materials with care 

• Follow adult directions the first time they are given 

Level 1 Behavioral Choices

The following offenses are examples of behavior that does not meet Level 1 expectations. Any staff member will submit a minor referral for these choices.

• 3rd or more tardy to the same class

• A hallway disruption requiring teacher redirection 

• Disrupting the learning environment within a classroom after being redirected (may include excessive talking, being off task, refusing to work, etc.)

• Profanity

• Engaging in name-calling or negative conversations directed at students or staff 

• Habitually unprepared for class 

• Dress code violation 

• Unauthorized use of cell phone

• Unauthorized use of a Chromebook 

• Leaving a Chromebook at home or bringing it to school without a full charge

• Horseplay that does not result in student injury 

• Referral from a bus driver  

Level 1 Consequences

When student behaviors do not align with Level 1 expectations, the learning environment is disrupted and one or more of the following consequences may be used: 

• Verbal correction and other in-class interventions 

• Re-direct and re-teach appropriate behavior in a brief student conference 

• Confiscation of inappropriate item 

• Withdrawal of privileges or other natural consequences

• MINOR referral through PBIS Rewards and parent contact 

• Reflection/Goal Setting during WIN

• Referral to PBIS Leadership Team for recommendation of additional interventions  

Continuum of Level 1 Consequences 

Level 2 Student Expectations

Level 2 expectations represent behaviors more crucial than Level 1 expectations for the integrity of the learning environment. 

• Attend classes as scheduled 

• Consider the feelings of others. BE NICE 

• Respect the privacy of others 

• Use language appropriate for all ages and audiences 

• Play in a manner that will not result in injury 

• Show respect for the property of others and the school 

• Admit mistakes, accept responsibility, and respond to corrections by a staff member 

• Report misbehavior to an adult 

Level 2 Behavioral Choices

The following offenses are examples of behavior that does not meet Level 2 expectations. Any staff member will submit a major referral for these choices. 

• Receiving a 6th Minor referral in the same 9-week period

• Skipping class 

• Cheating, lying, or stealing minor items 

• Taunting or instigating a confrontation

• Damaging or defacing school property 

• Public display of affection 

• Taking and/or distributing pictures of students or staff taken during the school day 

• Horseplay that results in injury 

• Defiant refusal to comply with correction or redirection from a staff member 

• Selling items that are not part of an approved school fundraiser 

• Non-compliance of a behavior contract

• Failure to serve a detention

• Possessing, smoking or using tobacco or tobacco-related products, including electronic/battery-operated devices.*

Level 2 Consequences

Failure to meet Level 2 expectations significantly disrupts student learning and creates an unsafe environment. A major referral will be submitted to the administration, who will investigate and determine appropriate consequences for behavior. One or more of the following consequences will be used: 

• Withdrawal of privileges or other natural consequences

• Referral to PBIS team for additional interventions  

• Behavior contract 

• Quiet lunch

• Thursday After-School Detention 

• Saturday School

• 1-5 days of In-School Suspension (ISS) 

• Student/Parent/Admin meeting 

• *Tobacco Citation written by Williamson County Sheriff--School Resource Officer 

Level 3 and 4 Student Expectations

Level 3 and 4 expectations are critical to the emotional wellbeing and/or physical safety of students and staff. Escalation between levels can occur quickly and expectations for behavior are similar.

• Treat others how you want to be treated

• Remain on campus during school hours 

• Respect the opinions of others  

• Seek to understand rather than to judge or blame 

• Walk away from someone who is being verbally or physically offensive and do not engage with their behavior 

• Refrain from making sexually inappropriate jokes, gestures, or touching  

• Seek help from an adult when a conflict could result in a physical altercation 

• Immediately report threats, harassment, or bullying behavior to an adult 

Level 3 Behavioral Choices

The following offenses are examples of behavior that does not meet Level 3 expectations. This level includes acts directly against persons or property but whose consequences do not seriously endanger the health or safety of others in the school. 

• Continuation of unmodified Level 1 and 2 behaviors

• Fighting

• Vandalism (minor)

• Stealing

• Threats to others

• Making a false report

• Abusive language

• Victimization of any student (Harassment (sexual, racial, ethnic, religious), bullying, cyber-bullying, and/or hazing)

Level 3 Consequences 

Behaviors that do not align with Level 3 expectations represent a serious disruption to the learning environment and jeopardize the wellbeing of others .Any staff member will submit a major referral to the administration, who will investigate and determine appropriate consequences.

One or more of the following consequences will be used: 

• Referral to PBIS team for additional interventions  

• 1-5 Days of (ISS)

• 1-10 Days of Out-of-School Suspension (OSS) 

• Referral to Juvenile Court/Alternative Learning Center 

Level 4 Behavioral Choices

The following offenses are examples of behavior that does not meet Level 3 expectations. 

• Continuation of unmodified Level 3 behaviors

• Assault of another person 

• Threats (injury, death, bomb, extortion)

• Destruction of school property

• Selling, delivering, or distributing a counterfeit controlled substance 

• Possession or distribution of pornography 

• Possession, use, or transfer of firearms or other weapons, alcohol, drugs/drug paraphernalia

Level 4 Consequences

Behaviors that do not align with Level 4 expectations represent acts which result in violence to another’s person or property, or which pose a threat to the safety of others in the school. These acts are so serious that they usually require administrative actions which result in the immediate removal of the student from the school and the intervention of law enforcement authorities. Any staff member will immediately request the presence of an administrator to become directly involved in the misbehavior. A major referral to the administration will be submitted afterwards for investigation purposes. One or more of the following consequences will be used: 

• Referral to PBIS team for additional interventions  

• Referral to alternative Learning Center

• Referral to Juvenile Court

• Expulsion

Family Access / Skyward:

Parents and students are expected to set up a Family Access account to monitor students’ academic performance as grades are entered in the teachers’ grade books. Through Family Access, triggers can be set so that an email is sent when your child’s grade drops below a designated numerical average. To set up a Family Access account, please visit our Spring Station homepage, look in the top grey bar and select Skyward. You will need a WCS-issued username and password to activate your account. Please bring a photo ID to SSMS during regular office hours to pick up this information.

Academic Intervention Detention (A.I.D.):

It is the expectation of SSMS that all students diligently complete all academic assignments. If a teacher assigns the work, then the student should complete the work. To this end, SSMS has designed an Academic Intervention Detention (A.I.D.) in order to support students in completing all assignments. Students can be assigned to A.I.D. for either of the following two reasons:

• The student is missing multiple (2 or more) assignments.
• The student is failing a class due to a missing assignment.

Students will receive an A.I.D. form from their teacher assigning them to the intervention time. Parents will be contacted by the teacher to confirm the scheduled date of the detention.

• Parents will be contacted to confirm the date A.I.D. should be served. 
• A.I.D. is from 2:45-3:45 on Thursday afternoons in the library. 
• After a student attends A.I.D., the work is expected to be turned in by Friday morning (the next day).

Retakes:

A student has the opportunity to retake one failing assessment per course each quarter.

Promotion/Retention: 

In grades 6-8, students must pass with an average of 70% in language arts, math, science, and social studies. Principals may require students who are failing coursework to attend remediation after school, during study hall, or in summer school as a condition for promotion. The final decision for promotion/retention rests with the principal.

*For more detailed grading information please see the WCS district wide polices.

• All foods brought to school for scheduled school-wide celebrations must be pre-packaged with product ingredients listed. Food made at home may not be distributed during the school day or brought into the classroom.
• Parents/guardians will not be allowed to bring outside restaurant food into the school cafeteria. Where space is available, schools may designate an area outside the cafeteria for parents/guardians to bring lunch for their student.

• Each student will be assigned a chromebook and charger that will be checked out specifically to him or her.  

• Students are expected to bring the chromebook to school every day fully charged and leave the charger at home.  

• In general, if students charge chromebooks every night while sleeping, the chromebooks will be ready for use all day.  

• Chromebooks are the property of SSMS and should be handled gently and not used during horseplay, written on, covered with stickers, or used inappropriately.  

• Student name labels should stay on the front of the chromebooks, and students should only use their assigned devices.  

• If a student forgets to bring a chromebook, the library will loan one for the day.  

• If a student's chromebook runs low on battery, the library will swap for a fully charged chromebook if available.  

• Cell phones and other electronic devices are to be turned off and placed in lockers before homeroom begins and remain in lockers until the end of the day after dismissal from 7th period.

• Cell phones and other electronic devices are not to be in a student’s possession during any part of the school day without permission from a teacher if being used for an assignment or project.

• A student in possession of a cell phone during the instructional day (7:40-2:45) will be logged for a minor referral and the phone will be turned in to the office until the end of the day.  (Repeated minor referrals will accumulate to become a major referral leading to more severe consequences.)

• Watches with cellular, wifi, or texting capabilities are not to be used in this capacity by students during the instructional day. 

Messages and deliveries to students from parents need to be handled by the main office rather than texting your child or calling or emailing the classroom and interrupting learning. Parents should not text their child while at school as this disrupts the learning environment. If you absolutely must get something to your child, bring it to the SSMS front office by 10:15 so that it can be delivered to the student at lunch.  

Please put your child’s name on the item or lunch. Each child is responsible for checking the cart in the cafeteria for items to be picked up during lunch.  Parents are not allowed to bring their child a lunch from an outside restaurant unless the parent is staying to have lunch with the student in the office.

For messages or items received after 11:30, students will have the opportunity to come to the front office to receive the message or pick up the item at the end of the school day.  SSMS staff cannot guarantee that items left at the office will be picked up by the student as it is always the student’s responsibility to bring necessary materials and equipment to school each day.   Deliveries of flowers, balloons, cupcakes, etc. are not allowed.

The lost and found is in the cafeteria and is accessible before and after school and during lunch.  Please label all jackets, lunchboxes, and personal items.  We will make every effort to return an item labeled properly.  At the end of the month, lost and found items not claimed or not labeled will be donated to a local charity.

Hall lockers are assigned to students at the beginning of the school year. Students can lose the privilege of using a locker for not following the expectations for appropriate use as follows:

• Lockers should always be locked.
• Students should not give their locker combinations to anyone, and they should not set their locker so that the locker opens automatically or by just turning the dial slightly. This is for student protection and safety since students are responsible for whatever is found in their lockers. 
• It is important to keep the locker organized to prevent damage to the door and to avoid issues for the surrounding lockers. 
• Water bottles and liquids are not allowed in lockers as they may leak and damage books for which students are responsible. 
• The student is financially responsible for any damage done to the locker, WCS textbooks, or WCS Chromebooks.
• Magnets are acceptable on the inside, but stickers or any adhesives are not allowed and are considered vandalism. 
• Students are responsible for all money and belongings brought to school. 
• Any problems with locks or lockers should be reported to the SSMS administration.
• Lockers can be searched by school officials.