SIGNAL MOUNTAIN

  SIGNAL MOUNTAIN

MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL

 

STUDENT HANDBOOK

2010-2011

 

  High School Office:  423-886-0880

High School Office Fax:  423-886-0881

Middle School Office:  423-886-0874

Middle School Office Fax:  423-886-0894

 

Dear Students,

I want to take this opportunity to welcome you back to Signal Mountain Middle High School, or welcome you to our school if this is your first year. SMMHS is an excellent school and getting better. The academic preparation is second to none. As a result we hold high expectations for our students, our teachers and our parents. Our staff has worked hard in preparation for SMMHS becoming an International Baccalaureate World School. We want our entire school community to take pride in this accomplishment. It means that we provide a world class education and encourage our students to take advantage of it. With the education provided at SMMHS, combined with hard work, our students will be able to go to the college of their choice and be successful. This is our primary goal. It is also important that as a school community we become self-disciplined and treat all others with respect. To that end, there are certain expectations of behavior and dress that we hold for our students. In the pages that follow, you will find various forms of useful information, including our expectations for behavior and dress. Please read them carefully. We care about all our students and appreciate the cooperation we receive. As we continue to build a better school, let’s make this year the best yet.

Sincerely,

Tom McCullough

Tom McCullough, Ed.D.
Principal    


SMMHS VISION

Our vision is to create a community of caring and committed learners with a passion for excellence.

SMMHS MISSION

Signal Mountain Middle/High School strives to develop socially responsible and engaged scholars who will positively impact their community, country, and world.

 
IB LEARNER PROFILE

The aim of all IB programmes is to develop internationally minded people who, recognizing their common humanity and shared guardianship of the planet, help to create a better and more peaceful world.

IB learners strive to be:

Inquirers They develop their natural curiosity. They acquire the skills necessary to conduct inquiry and research and show independence in learning. They actively enjoy learning and this love of learning will be sustained throughout their lives.
Knowledgeable They explore concepts, ideas and issues that have local and global significance.  In so doing, they acquire in-depth knowledge and develop understanding across a broad and balanced range of disciplines.
Thinkers They exercise initiative in applying thinking skills critically and creatively to recognize and approach complex problems, and make reasoned, ethical decisions.
Communicators They understand and express ideas and information confidently and creatively in more than one language and in a variety of modes of communication. They work effectively and willingly in collaboration with others.
Principled They act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. They take responsibility for their own actions and the consequences that accompany them.
Open-minded They understand and appreciate their own cultures and personal histories, and are open to the perspectives, values and traditions of other individuals and communities. They are accustomed to seeking and evaluating a range of points of view, and are willing to grow from the experience.
Caring They show empathy, compassion and respect towards the needs and feelings of others. They have a personal commitment to service, and act to make a positive difference to the lives of others and to the environment.
Risk-takers They approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought, and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles, ideas and strategies. They are brave and articulate in defending their beliefs.
Balanced They understand the importance of intellectual, physical and emotional balance to achieve personal well-being for themselves and others.
Reflective They give thoughtful consideration to their own learning and experience. They are able to assess and understand their strengths and limitations in order to support their learning and personal development.
 
HAMILTON COUNTY SCHOOL CALENDAR
2010-2011

August 4    Registration Day
August 11    First Full Day of School
September 67    Labor Day
October 8    End of 1st Quarter (NO STUDENTS)
October 15    Report Cards
October 18-22    Fall Break
* October 29    Community & Service Day (1/2 day, attendance required)
November 24–26    Thanksgiving
December 16    Last Day of School before Holidays
January 5    School Reopens
January 7    Report Cards
January 17    Martin Luther King Day (Holiday)
* February 11    Community & Service Day (1/2 day, attendance required)
February 21    Presidents' Day (Holiday)
March 15    Professional Dev. (NO STUDENTS - except Juniors for ACT)
    ACT Testing
March 18    Report Cards
March 21-25    Spring Holiday
April 11-18    TCAP Testing
April 22    Spring Holiday
May 24    In-Service Records (NO STUDENTS)
May 25    Last Day of School – Report Cards

*Parent-Teacher conferences will be held the weeks of October 25-29, 2009 and February 7-11, 2010.

Students will be dismissed for a ½ day on October 29, and on February 11.  These will be our school-wide Community & Service days, and regular attendance is expected.

 
ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS
The primary purpose of Signal Mountain Middle/High School is learning.  For this purpose to be accomplished, every person - student and staff – must accept the responsibility for contributing to an appropriate teaching and learning climate. As a result, we
    Respect the rights, worth and dignity of each individual.
    Exhibit good behavior and manners, dress appropriately, and use appropriate language.
    Come to school intending to learn.
    Come to all classes with proper tools (books, pencils, etc.) and with all assignments completed by their due dates.
    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 to all classes.
    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.

ACADEMIC HONESTY
All students are expected to produce their own original work.  Violations of academic honesty include, but are not limited to the following:

    Cheating - taking information of any form into a test situation for the purpose of responding to test items.
    Plagiarism - submitting another person’s published words or ideas as one’s own.  This includes not just verbatim copying of an author’s work but also paraphrasing from that work without giving appropriate reference to the original source.
    Copying - copying the work of others when the copied material is to count as a grade.  This includes electronic copying.
    Inappropriate Aid - Providing test information to others in or out of class; taking test questions in any form to provide assistance in later test situations; sharing of information by the use of calculators is not allowed.
    Selling or buying papers or projects.
    Forging of parental or doctors’ notes.

Students will not be given credit for work involving violations of academic honesty.  The teacher will contact the student’s parent or guardian and refer the case to the administration.

Dishonesty and misrepresentation of student work will not be accepted.

Recommended Disciplinary Actions are as follows:
1st Offense    Zero on assignment, parent notification by teacher, administration notified
2nd Offense    1 Day ISS and 1st Offense consequences
3rd Offense    3 Days ISS and 1st Offense consequences

ACADEMIC LETTERS/STAR ROLL/HONOR ROLL
Students who maintain a B average or above in all classes and nothing lower than an S in conduct will be selected for the Honor Roll.  Students who maintain an A average in all classes and nothing lower than an S in conduct will be selected for the Star Roll.  A suspension during a nine-week period will disqualify someone from being on the Honor or Star Roll for that quarter.  Students who maintain Honor and/or Star Roll status for the first three quarters will be honored with an Academic Letter provided there are no suspensions prior to the date awards are presented.

ACADEMIC RECORDS (TRANSCRIPTS)
A transcript is the student’s official high school academic record sent upon his/her request to legitimate agencies.  Request forms are available in the School Counselors’ Office.  After all transcript items are completed by the student’s counselor, they will be mailed from the Counselors’ Office.  Seniors sending transcripts to colleges must request them through the Naviance website.

ATHLETICS
SMMHS is a member of the Tennessee Secondary Schools Athletic Association.  Students must earn six credits the preceding school year and receive credit in three out of four classes in the preceding term to participate in any TSSAA sport.  Middle School students follow the HCAC guidelines.  Students must pass three out of four core classes in the previous quarter in order to be eligible for athletic participation.  Other restrictions may apply.  Coaches of all sports will give students a code of conduct which they must follow.  Student athletes must follow all rules set forth by the school and the TSSAA.

 
Middle School
August:
   Cheerleading
   Cross Country
   Football
   Softball

October:
   Boys’ Basketball
   Girls’ Basketball
   Cheerleading
   Boys’ Soccer
   Girls’ Soccer
   Swim & Dive

January:
   Volleyball
   Wrestling

March:
   Track
   Tennis
   Golf
   Baseball
High School

Fall Sports:
   Cheerleading (Year long)
   Cross Country
   Football
   Girls’ Soccer
   Golf
   Volleyball

Winter Sports:
   Boys’ Basketball
   Girls’ Basketball
   Bowling
   Swim & Dive
   Wrestling

Spring Sports:
   Baseball
   Boys’ Soccer
   Softball
   Tennis
   Track

 

Students who plan to participate in a school sport must have a sports physical before trying out.  This, along with parental permission, must be indicated on the proper TSSAA sports permission form.  The TSSAA Physical form and the Emergency Medical Release form must be turned in before a student will be allowed to practice, train, or try out.

ATTENDANCE POLICY
Students are expected to be in school and on time for each class.  A student who is not in school for at least half the day will be counted absent for the day, and that student may not participate in extra-curricular/sports activities on that day.  If the day is shortened to a half day, the student must stay the entire half day to be counted present.

Excused Absences
    Personal Illness – Students are excused who are sick and whose attendance would be detrimental to their health and the health of other students.  A doctor’s statement will be needed after three sick days.
    Death in Immediate Family – Students may be excused for three days in the event of a death in their immediate families including parents, step-parents, siblings, or grandparents.  Extenuating circumstances may require a longer period of excused absence.
    Family Illness – A student having an illness in the family which requires him or her to give temporary help will be excused from attendance after receipt of a physician’s statement concerning the necessity of the student’s assistance.
    Religious Holiday – Students shall be excused on special or recognized religious holidays regularly observed by particular faiths.  Prior approval is required should these days occur while school is in session.
    Personal – Students who are absent for a good cause – doctor, dental, or court appointment – which cannot be scheduled at times other than school hours may be excused upon proof of appointment.  Prior approval by parent or guardian and the principal or his designee is required.
    Approved School Sponsored Activities – Students shall be marked present when participating in a school sponsored activity away from the school building.

Written requests for authorized absences such as college visitations must be submitted to the principal for approval in advance.  Upon returning from an absence, all notes for absences should be turned in to the attendance secretary.  Students should keep a copy for their records.

A student dismissed for any of the reasons listed must bring a note that contains the student’s name, the explanation for the absence, and the parent’s signature and daytime phone number.  This note should be given to the attendance secretary on the first day the student returns.

Unexcused Absences
    Truancy
    Cutting class
    Out of town
    No excuse submitted
    Missed the bus
    Out of school suspension
    Trouble with automobile
    Unexcused tardy
    Failure to check in when tardy to school
    Absent without parent’s permission
    Not properly dismissed

Excessive Absences
By law students are allowed five (5) unexcused absences per school year.  HCDE will allow parent excuses to serve as documentation for three (3) additional personal illness days.  After the five (5) unexcused days and the three (3) additional personal illness days, parents must provide medical services documentation for the following: personal illness, family illness, or personal (as defined above).  To avoid student absences being recorded as unexcused, a written statement signed and dated by the parent or guardian and any medical documentation should be presented to the appropriate school official within five (5) days of the student returning to school.  

After four (4) unexcused absences, parents will be notified by a school social worker to attend an Attendance Review Team (ART) meeting.  After more than five (5) unexcused absences, parents will be notified by a school social worker via legal notice to attend an Informal Truancy Hearing before juvenile court representatives.  If unexcused absences continue after the Informal Truancy Hearing, parents will be petitioned to attend a Formal Hearing before a juvenile court judge.

A failing grade may be given to a student who has excessive absences in any given class.  Additionally, parking privileges may be removed and/or social probation may be imposed if a student exceeds three (3) unexcused absences per quarter or five (5) unexcused absences per semester.

Appeals Process: The appeals process is the responsibility of the student whose unexcused absences exceed 3 days per 9-week grading period or 5 days per 18-week grading term. Students must provide appropriate documentation to the assistant principal. If the absence appeal is unsuccessful, a student’s passing grade may be lowered to a 69. Grades below 69 remain unchanged.

Dismissal Policy
When it becomes necessary for a student to leave the grounds before the normal dismissal time, certain procedures must be followed.  Students must always receive office approval before leaving, regardless of the reason.  Notes are accepted for verifiable doctor and dental appointments and court orders only, and must be brought to the attendance secretary before the first period on the day of the dismissal.  Students are not to leave until the appointments have been verified.  A student must sign out or in on the logbook in the attendance office.  Students will receive a dismissal slip verifying approved dismissals.  All other dismissals from school require a parent signature in our log book in the office.  Dismissals over the phone will only be accepted if verified by school personnel.

Make-up Work
It is the student’s responsibility to get his/her make-up work after an excused absence.  Students will be given five days to turn in the work.  When a parent requests make-up work, the teacher should be given one full school day’s notice to allow time to gather the assignments and get them to the office.

If a student’s absence is unexcused, he/she may be allowed to make-up work for reduced credit (may not exceed 10%).

Tardiness
Late arrival disrupts class and causes loss of instruction time.  Any student who arrives at school after 7:30 a.m. must go to the office and obtain a pass to give to his/her first period teacher.   Also, if a student is more than 10 minutes late (unexcused) to a class they will be marked absent for that class.

Students and parents should understand that three tardies constitute one unexcused absence.  In addition to receiving an unexcused absence on his/her record, a day of Saturday school will be given for every three tardies.  This policy applies to tardies to school and to individual classes.  Habitual tardiness could result in additional disciplinary consequences.

BUS INFORMATION
Any student who interferes with the safe operation of a school bus will be held accountable.  The Superintendent of HCDE or the principal may suspend the privilege of transportation from any student due to misconduct or misbehavior while on the bus.

If a student plans to ride a bus different from his/her regular bus, a note signed by the parent giving permission must be brought to school and must contain a phone number where the parent may be reached during the day.  The note should be turned in to the receptionist in the front office prior to 8:00 a.m.  The note will be verified and a bus pass will be issued.  The note and pass may be picked up during lunch and given to the bus driver.

CELL PHONES AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Cell phones are not to be visible while students are in the building. The only exception is they may be used during the lunch period, but they must be off when the bell signals class time.  Cell phones are to be placed in a basket in each classroom or in the student’s locker.  

No electronic devices are allowed during the school day, except for lunch time.  This includes, but is not limited to, MP3 players, radios, iPods, hand-held games, CD and DVD players, and PDAs.  

Faculty members will confiscate a phone or electronic device if they see it at any time other than lunch.  Phones will be labeled with the student’s name and date, and turned in to the HS office.  
Consequences will be strictly enforced in 2010-2011
1st Offense - A parent or guardian may pick it up the following school day.
2nd Offense – A parent or guardian may pick it up two weeks (14 full days) later.
Additional offenses will be dealt with at the discretion of the administration.

SMMHS does not assume any responsibility should any devices be lost, damaged, or stolen.

CODE OF CONDUCT
The goal of the discipline policies of Signal Mountain Middle/High School is to provide a safe and healthy learning environment for all of the people who enter our building.  The following rules, based upon common sense, consideration, and respect, apply to everyone:
    Be on time
    Be considerate of others
    Do your work
    Be respectful of yourself, of others, of their ideas, and of the facility
    
Students should respect people, respect property, and respect ideas.
Discipline can have many different meanings, but in the context of a school, it refers to the process of maintaining order in the building and teaching students the lessons of good character and responsibility.  Everyone is responsible for their own behavior.  Everyone has different challenges, but these challenges do not prevent one from owning his/her behavior.  After all, behavior is what truly defines who a person really is.  Being responsible for one’s behavior involves taking ownership of the consequences for the result of one’s actions.

COLLEGE ACCESS
The purpose of your college advisor is to collaborate with school counselors and support the existing school counseling/guidance program by serving as a resource for college and financial aid information for students, parents, faculty and staff.  

SMMHS subscribes to the belief that every student should have the opportunity to go to college. We will work to help increase awareness of postsecondary opportunities, find the right college match for your child, and present as many scholarship opportunities as possible. Specific activities and opportunities to make this possible for students include the following:
    Conducting curriculum and college planning workshops for students in grades 9 and 10
    Conducting classroom advisory sessions on topics such as: how to write a strong essay for scholarships, what a great personal statement looks like, and how to find the right college for you.
    Meeting one-on-one with students during spring of the junior year or early fall of the senior year to create and refine postsecondary plans
    Handling registration for the ACT, monitoring vouchers and fee waivers, and reporting trends in scores
    Maintaining a college counseling database, such as Naviance, for ongoing accountability, end-of-year reports, and college matriculation follow-up
    Conducting financial aid workshops and working with support staff from local universities to assist in completing FAFSA (free application for federal student aid) forms
    Coordinating college tours and/or college representative visits to the schools
    Developing a school profile
    Assisting students with college and scholarship applications
    Facilitating professional development opportunities relating to the college admission process for the high school faculty and staff.

Your College Advisor is partially funded by The Chattanooga Partnership for College Access & Success which is working to increase the percentage of public school graduates in Hamilton County who are college-ready, and who enroll in and complete postsecondary education. For more information about the College Access Center please go to www.collegeaccesscenter.org.

COUNSELING SERVICES
Philosophy:  Our comprehensive school counseling program is predicated on the belief that all students are unique and dynamic individuals, capable of becoming responsible and productive adults.  Our program is proactive and preventative in nature and we are committed to meeting the needs of ALL students.
Although working with students is the primary focus of the mission and philosophy; communicating, coordinating and consulting with administrators teachers, parents, and community agencies are integral to the work our Guidance and Counseling Program.

Services Provided:  While it is impossible to list all of the services provided by our school counseling department, the primary areas of service include individual counseling, small group counseling, advisory assistance, classroom guidance, academic counseling, college and career counseling.
Throughout the counselor’s work with students in each of the following areas, confidentiality is very important.  Our school counselors keep information confidential unless disclosure is required to prevent clear and imminent danger to the student or others or when legal requirements demand that confidential information be revealed.  Counselors will consult with appropriate professionals when in doubt as to the validity of these exceptions.

COURSE LEVELS
Standard Level Courses:  Standard level courses are offered in each discipline and are open to any student.

Honors Level Courses:  The following Framework of Standards for Honors Courses is required by the State Board of Education to ensure that additional rigor is being provided in all honors courses:
Honors courses will substantially exceed the content standards, learning expectations, and performance indicators approved by the State Board of Education. Teachers of honors courses will model instructional approaches that facilitate maximum interchange of ideas among students: independent study, self-directed research and learning, and appropriate use of technology. All honors courses must include multiple assessments exemplifying coursework (such as short answer, constructed-response prompts, performance-based tasks, open-ended questions, essays, original or creative interpretations, authentic products, portfolios, and analytical writing). Additionally, an honors course shall include a minimum of five of the following components:
    Extended reading assignments that connect with the specified curriculum.
    Research-based writing assignments that address and extend the course curriculum.
    Projects that apply course curriculum to relevant or real-world situations. These may include oral presentations, power point presentations, or other modes of sharing findings. Connection of the project to the community is encouraged.
    Open-ended investigations that demonstrate a variety of modes, purposes, and styles.
    Writing assignments that demonstrate a variety of modes, purposes, and styles. (Examples of mode include narrative, descriptive, persuasive, expository, and expressive. Examples of purpose include: to inform, entertain, and persuade. Examples of style include formal, informal, literary, analytical, and technical.)
    Integration of appropriate technology into the course of study.
    Deeper exploration of the culture, values, and history of the discipline.
    Job shadowing experiences with presentations which connect class study to the world of work.

Honors courses have three points added to the final class grade.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses are college-level courses with a prescribed core curriculum.  The AP National Examination is provided by and graded by the College Entrance Examination Board (CEEB) and is administered to AP students in May of each year.  Individual colleges and universities have their own specific standards for granting credit for AP work.  The AP exam must be taken to earn the credit for the AP course.  AP courses have five points added to the final class grade.

A typical AP course is a special learning experience that takes a full academic year.  The curriculum of an AP course is challenging and requires more effort and homework on the part of the student than a regular or honors high school course.  It gives greater opportunity for individual progress and accomplishment and goes into greater depth with the academic material of each individual course.

There is a registration fee to take the AP test.  A student may take the AP test even if he/she is not enrolled in an AP class.  Teacher recommendations for enrollment and summer project work may be required.  

Early College Program: Chattanooga State has partnered with SMMHS to offer courses that will earn both high school and college credits.  The benefits include:
    Exposure to college level instruction
    Receive dual high school and college credit or college credit only
    Lower pupil / instructor ratio
    Many general education requirements are met for TBR / UT system and many other colleges
    Highly qualified, college level instructors
    Hands on instruction through guided inquiries (lab and lecture)
    Instructors available for office hours and tutorials
    1/6 the cost of many major Tennessee colleges
    Classes taught on campus at Signal Mountain Middle High School

DINING HALL / EATING AREA RULES
All students are expected to eat and remain in the dining hall or other designated eating areas during their lunch times.  Students are expected to dispose of all trash and clean up after themselves.  Proper manners are expected in all eating areas.  Use of improper manners will result in disciplinary action.  Throwing food is a suspendable offense.

DISCIPLINE POLICIES
Students who neglect or refuse to abide by the educational standards of the school or whose conduct is detrimental to the school may expect to receive such consequences as, but not limited to the following:
    Parent Notification / Conference
    Suspension from extra-curricular activities as determined by the teachers, coaches, or administrators
    Detention / Community Service
    Removal from class / In-School-Suspension
    Suspension from school
    Expulsion from school by the HCDE
    Saturday School
    Extended Evening School
    Alternative School
(The Administration reserves the right to modify, change or add to the disciplinary actions.)

Suspension Policy
Suspension means removal from the student’s regular school and prohibition from attending all school events and activities during the time of the suspension.  Nothing prohibits the assignment of such students to alternative school.
    Any principal, principal-teacher or assistant principal is authorized to suspend a student from attendance at school, including sponsored activities, both at school and away from the school campus, or from riding the school bus for good and sufficient reasons.
    Except in an emergency, no principal, or assistant principal shall suspend any student until that student has been advised of the nature of the misconduct, questioned about it, and allowed to give an explanation.
    For students suspected or identified as having a disability, the principal will ensure that the disciplinary process is in compliance with IDEA.
    The school must make a reasonable effort to contact the parent or guardian of a suspended student.
    A student applying for admission to a Hamilton County school from any other school who has been suspended or expelled for reasons covered by this policy shall not be admitted without a conference with the Superintendent of Schools or his designee, and waiting a period prescribed by the Superintendent or his designee which shall not be less than the minimum penalty required by this policy for such infraction. The waiting period begins with the date of the conference with the Superintendent or designee.

Reasons for such suspension may include, but shall not be limited to:
    Willful and persistent violation of the rules of the school or truancy, including attendance violations and excessive tardiness.
    Immoral or disreputable conduct or vulgar or profane language,
    Fighting and/or violence or threatened violence against the person or any personnel attending or assigned to any public school.
    Willful or malicious damage to real or personal property of the school, or the property of any person attending or assigned to the school.
    Marking, defacing or destroying school property.
    Possession of a pistol, gun or firearm, real or look-alike, operable or non-operable, on school property, a school bus or at any school event.
    Possession of a knife, etc., as defined in (TCP 39-17-1301) on school property.
    Assaulting a principal or teacher with vulgar, obscene or threatening language.
    Unlawful use or possession of any illegal or prescription drug or drug paraphernalia on school property, bus, or any school event.  Smoking, chewing, or possessing tobacco.
    Any other conduct prejudicial to good order or discipline.
    Off-campus criminal behavior resulting in felony charges; when the student’s presence in school poses a danger to person or property, or disrupts the education process.
    Bullying, gambling, cheating, stealing, throwing food, sexual harassment, excessive dress code violations.
    Inciting, advising or counseling of others to engage in any of the acts herein enumerated.

Discrimination/Harassment
(Sexual, Racial, Ethnic, Religious)
Students and teachers shall be provided a learning environment free from sexual, racial, ethnic, and religious discrimination/harassment.  It shall be a violation of Hamilton County Board of Education policy for any employee or any student to discriminate against or harass a student or teacher through disparaging conduct or communication that is sexual, racial, ethnic, or religious in nature.  This includes conduct, gestures, drawings, words, or phrases which are commonly accepted to have a sexual, racial, ethnic, or religious connotation.  Guidelines are set forth to protect students and teachers from discrimination/harassment.

Notice of Non-Discrimination
It is the policy of the Hamilton County Board of Education not to discriminate on the basis of sex, race, national origin, creed, age, or religion in any of the programs or practices in the school system.  A complaint may be filed by anyone who has a grievance regarding discrimination as set forth in one of the following statutes: (1) The Rehabilitation Act of 1972, Section 504: (2) Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: or (3) Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972.  Mrs. Sheryl Randolph is the Title VI and Title IX coordinator for Hamilton County Schools.  She may be reached by calling (423) 209-8654.   

Bullying
Bullying will not be tolerated on school property, at a school function or on a school bus. Bullying shall mean deliberate harassment and/or violence against a student perpetrated by another student or group of students. Bullying includes but is not limited to:

    Physical violence
    Taunts, name-calling or ethnic, racial or gender based verbal abuse.
    Threats, intimidation, or extortion.
    Conduct which creates a hostile or offensive learning environment.

A student who commits an offense under this policy shall be disciplined appropriately, including but not limited to suspension from school.

Fighting
In the event of a conflict between students (or any other person), all students are expected to resolve such conflict in a non-violent, non-threatening manner, which does not demean another or himself/herself.  Each incident of fighting will be handled on a separate and individual basis.  The penalty for being involved in a fight, defined as an exchange or physical blows, (hitting, slapping, pushing, shoving, etc.) may be three to five days of in-school-suspension or out-of school suspension.  The second offense may be out-of-school suspension and a recommendation for expulsion. Students should report incidents or fighting immediately to an administrator or teacher.  Students should not take matters into their own hands but should allow an administrator to handle the situation.

Students who instigate fights but are not actively involved (that is, students who carry rumors, put others up to fighting, or carry information back and forth between other individuals who subsequently fight) submit themselves to the same penalties as those who are involved in the fight. Students who are intimidated or harassed by another student should report these incidents immediately to an administrator. Students may be arrested for fighting and/or summoned to Juvenile Court.


Substance Abuse
Students found in possession of alcohol, controlled substances, illegal drugs, intoxicants, imitation controlled substances or paraphernalia or showing the effects of alcohol or other drugs on school grounds or at school-sponsored functions shall be suspended by the principal or the principal’s designee for at least twenty (20) school days.  Upon the second offense for use or possession of alcohol, the student will be suspended for a minimum of eighty-five (85) school days.  Upon the third offense, the student shall be expelled by the School Board.  Possession shall mean legally controlled alcohol found on a student or in a student’s personal belongings, locker or vehicle.

Cumulative Infractions - In the event a student is guilty of an infraction for use and/or possession, the second infraction, whether or not of a different nature, shall be counted as the second infraction for the same type of offense in determining the punishment, so that one offense for possession, and a second offense for use and vice versa, shall be treated as a second offense for possession or use in determining punishment. The infractions shall include the student’s entire school career.

Sale, Transfer, or Receive - Any student who shall sell or transfer to another person or receive alcohol upon school property, on a school bus, or at a school sponsored event or activity, shall be suspended from school for a period up to eighty-five (85) school days.  The facts of each situation will determine whether or not there has been a transfer.  For the second offense of selling, transferring or receiving, the student may be expelled from the school by the School Board.  Any student expelled for alcohol offenses shall be referred to the Hamilton County Juvenile Court.  Any person who is found guilty by any court of using, possessing, or selling legally controlled drugs or alcohol in an unlawful manner off campus or not at a school-related function shall be subject to the same suspension as he would have been if the offense had occurred on school property. TCA 49-6-3401(a)(12)

Suspected Child Abuse
Tennessee law requires that any person who knows or has reason to suspect that a child has been abused must report the allegation to the toll-free hotline number or local law enforcement.

Remember, “has reason to suspect” means you have seen indicators of abuse, the child has disclosed abuse, or you have a “gut” feeling something might not be right.  It does not mean that you are certain that abuse has occurred.  Reporting abuse, or suspected abuse, is actually a request for professionals to investigate further.

If you suspect child abuse, call the Tennessee Toll-Free Hotline at 1-877-54-ABUSE (1-877-542-2873).

Tobacco Use
Students shall not use, possess, or transfer tobacco products in any form on school premises.  This shall include use in cars, school buses and/or during any school sponsored activity whether it occurs before, during or after school hours.  To possess: shall mean to have tobacco products on the person, in the vehicle or other areas in control of the individual, including one's personal effects.  To use: shall mean holding of a lighted cigarette, cigar, or pipe, any inhaling of the smoke of tobacco, or any chewing or dipping of any tobacco product.  To "transfer" shall mean to give or pass contents of article from one person to another.  School administrators reserve the right to inspect lockers, automobiles, and personal effects on the premises.  Violations of this tobacco policy will include suspension on the first offense, legal citation, and other penalties as indicated under the Discipline Policies in this handbook.  All Hamilton County facilities are smoke free environments per Board Policy as of 7-1-94.

Zero Tolerance Policy
(This code does not prohibit a school principal from developing individual school policies and procedures for the maintenance of discipline within a school.  Individual school policy shall conform to Federal and State Law and Hamilton County School Board Policy indicated within this code.)

A.  Zero Tolerance Offenses
    Bringing to school or in unauthorized possession on school property of a firearm, explosive or incendiary device, poison gas, bomb, grenade, rocket, missile, mine or similar device.  (A firearm is defined as any weapon which will or is designed to or may be readily converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive.)
    Committing battery upon any teacher, principal, administrator, on any other employee of a local education agency or school resource officer.
    Unlawfully possessing any controlled substance or legend drug.  A controlled substance is any drug included in state law as a Schedule I, II, III, IV, V, VI or VII substance.  A legend drug is any item which federal law prohibits dispensing without a prescription from a licensed doctor, dentist, optometrist or veterinarian.
    These offenses require that the student be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year, except that superintendent may modify this expulsion on a case-by-case basis.  Expulsion means removed from the pupil’s regular school program at the location where the violation occurred or removed from school attendance altogether.

B.  Other Offenses Which May Result in Year-Long Suspension
The following acts may result in at least a calendar year suspension or a lesser suspension depending on the circumstances of the incident:
    Possession of a knife or any other device with a sharp blade attached, club, knuckles or any instrument which is capable of inflicting injury to or disabling another individual.
    Possessing, transferring or receiving drug paraphernalia.
    Possessing, transferring, receiving or using any substance which the student indicates or understands to be a substance which is controlled in any manner by state or federal law.
    Possessing, transferring or receiving non-prescription drugs.
The Superintendent or his designee may modify a long-term suspension on a case-by-case basis.  For purposes of this section, possession means actual physical control of the device or substance or the ability to exercise control over the device or substance.  This includes possession of the device or substance on school property, a school bus or at a school sponsored event or activity.

DRESS CODE
This school dress code, recommended by a task force of parents and students, was adopted by school administration.  The dress code is designed to allow for student comfort while maintaining an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the educational setting. The administration recognizes that a correlation exists between good grooming, personal attire, and achievement. Apparel or appearance that tends to draw attention to an individual rather than to a learning situation must be avoided. An important goal of a dress code is to teach young people that in the larger arena of life, different types of dress are appropriate for different settings.

IN TERMS OF DECISIONS REGARDING SCHOOL DRESS, THE PROFESSIONAL JUDGEMENT OF TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS WILL PREVAIL.

6th – 8th Grade (Middle School)
All apparel must not have any writing or signage other than a small brand-name logo or an SMMHS organization logo.  Team jerseys may be worn with administrative approval.

Shirts
1. Golf/polo type collared shirts of any color or pattern may be worn, and may have long or short sleeves.  Oxford cloth collared dress shirts may be worn.
2. Shirts that are too short to stay tucked in are too short to wear to school.  Shirts should extend below the top of the pants when standing still and when seated.  Shirts should be worn modestly without cleavage or undergarments showing.  “Undergarments” includes camisoles.
Fleece or Sweatshirts
1. Pull-over or full-length zippered fleece in any color are allowed.
2. Sweatshirts may be worn over a school dress code shirt.  These may have a crew neck or a hoodie.
Slacks, Shorts, and Skirts
1. Solid navy, tan, or khaki Chino style slacks, shorts or skirts/skorts.
2. Slacks are to be worn at the waist and shall extend to the top of the shoe.  Hip-huggers and low-riders are not permitted.
3. Slacks and shorts must be hemmed or cuffed, not rolled up, and not frayed.   Belts are not required.
4. Denim and nylon materials are not allowed.  Cargo and corduroy are permitted.
5. Shorts, skirts, and skorts must be knee length.
Shoes
1. Shoes or other appropriate footwear are to be worn at all times.  No house shoes or slippers.
Coats
Winter coats (other than fleece or sweatshirts) must be kept in lockers and are not to be worn during the school day.
Hats/Headwear/Sunglasses
Hats, “do-rags”, and sunglasses must be kept in lockers and not worn during the school day.
Other
No chains (other than necklaces) may be worn.

Spirit Days
Administration reserves the right to declare spirit days, when middle school students may wear t-shirts with an SMMHS logo.

Dress Down Days
All dress code policies apply except:
1. Jeans in good condition (no holes and no writing) may be worn.
2. Spirit shirt or school club/team shirt may be worn but must be tucked in to expose the belt-line of the pants.
3. T-shirts are allowed in any color or pattern.  All shirts must have sleeves and extend below the waistline.

Dress Code 9th-12th Grade (High School)
Apparel that is appropriate for social settings may not be appropriate for school. Students must demonstrate common sense and good judgment when selecting school clothing.
1.    Clothing that reveals the navel is unacceptable. This includes tops that are short and pants/skirts that are cut low. Shirts should extend below the top of the pants when standing or seated.
2.    Strapless shirts, backless tops, halters, tank tops, and low-cut shirts are not appropriate for school. Top apparel must be modest and no cleavage of bare midriff should be revealed. All tops must have shoulders and sleeves.
3.    No underwear is to be visible. No jeans, pants, shorts, or tops are to be worn that reveal undergarments while standing or sitting.
4.    Skirts, shorts, and dresses are to be in good taste and must be at least knee length. Students should be able to sit, stand, and walk without revealing underwear above or below the garment. Dress tops must comply with the requirements of appropriate shirt and tops guidelines.
5.    T-shirts must be in good taste. Shirts may not depict suggestive wording, pictures, graphics, or advertisements for alcoholic beverages, tobacco, drugs, sex, or gangs. Students will not be allowed to turn shirts inside out.
6.    Shoes or other appropriate footwear are to be worn at all times. No house shoes or slippers.
7.    Pants may be any material, but must fit appropriately (no sagging) and may not be ripped or have holes. Pajama pants are not permitted. Sweatpants are allowed BUT must have an official SMMHS logo or must be part of your SMMHS school team attire.
8.    Clothing that is intended for use in PE classes or for athletic practices are not to be worn as school attire. This includes tank tops for boys or girls, and spandex items.
9.    Coats are not to be worn during school, and must be placed in a locker upon entering the school building. Fleece, sweatshirts, and pullovers may be worn during school.
10.    Hats, “do-rags”, and sunglasses are not to be worn in the building from the time the building opens until dismissal. These items must be kept in lockers during the school day, and if seen with student during the day they are subject to confiscation.
11.    Any inappropriate piercings will be dealt with at the discretion of the administration.

Students who choose not to comply with the dress code will be subject to:
    First two offenses: Student must wear an administrative chosen “cover-up” for the day.
    Third offense: Student will be sent to ISS to call parent for appropriate clothing.  If unavailable,    student will remain in ISS for the remainder of the day.

DRIVER’S PERMIT AND LICENSE SF1010 FORM
Any student under the age of eighteen who is applying for a TN driving permit will be required to take form SF1010 to the driver license station.  Students may obtain the form from the Attendance Secretary while school is in session.  Allow several days for the form to be completed and returned to the student.
Tennessee State Law requires that students pass at least three full subjects to apply for the SF1010/Permit form.  Also, students cannot miss more than 10 consecutive days or 15 days total of unexcused absences during a single semester. When a student applies for the driver's license or permit, the SF1010 is only good for thirty (30) days from date of issue.

DRIVER’S LICENSE REVOCATION
(State Law 49-6-3017)  Any student 15-17 years of age who becomes academically deficient or deficient in attendance shall be reported to the Department of Safety for driver’s license revocation.  A student shall be deemed academically deficient if he/she has not received passing grades in at least three full unit subjects at the conclusion of any regular school semester.  A student shall be deemed deficient in attendance when he/she drops out of school or has excessive absences.  Suspensions count as unexcused absences (TN state law).  A student may not be considered to be in compliance until the student makes a passing grade in at least three full unit subjects at the conclusion of any subsequent grading period.

DRIVING AND CAMPUS PARKING
Students should understand that parking on school property is a privilege, not a right afforded to students. Certain conditions are attached to privileges. Students who fail to uphold those conditions will be subject to loss of parking privileges with no refund of fees paid, and disciplinary actions.
The conditions for parking are as follows:

    All students who drive on school grounds must possess a valid driver's license.
    Students must register any vehicle they intend to drive to school with school authorities.  All information requested must be given on the registration form.  A $50 registration fee is to be paid prior to issue of the permit.  This permit is to be hung on the rear view mirror - NO EXCEPTIONS.
    Vehicles without visible parking permits are subject to towing at owner's expense.
    No students are to park in the spaces which are reserved for faculty.
    All students should lock and secure their vehicles.
    Students are not to allow anyone to borrow their permit.  Permits must be used on the registered vehicle only.
    Parking is provided for seniors and juniors only.  Parking for sophomores, if any, will be based on availability.
    Students conducting or allowing illegal activity in their cars on school grounds will be subject to losing their permit permanently, as well as normal disciplinary action in regard to the discipline policy.

Reasons for Loss of Driving Privileges

    Speeding (15 mph speed limit) or reckless driving (including entering and exiting campus).
    Entering parking area during the school day without permission from the office.
    Excessive tardiness/absences (4 tardies in 9 week period or more than 5 unexcused absences in a year).
    Refusal to follow school official's directions.
    Allowing another student to borrow permit.

ELEVATOR
The elevator is off limits to all students unless given specific permission by an administrator and are issued an elevator pass.  Students who are given permission for legitimate reasons must abide by all rules given to him/her at the time.  At times, a student with elevator permission may be allowed to have a classmate assist them with books.  In these cases, only one other person may ride the elevator with the student having permission to ride.  Failure to abide by this policy may result in disciplinary action.

FIELD TRIPS
School sanctioned field trips will follow Hamilton County Board Policy regard the administering of field trips.  Under no circumstances are students permitted on field trips without a properly signed permission slip.  In all cases, field trips must be via approved transportation.  Students should dress neatly, according to the school’s dress code.  Students who are improperly dressed will not be permitted on field trips.

Prior to the field trip students must obtain missed assignments that will be assigned while the student is missing class time.  Following the field trip, students shall be responsible for assigned homework being turned in, test, quizzes, projects, etc. as scheduled by the teacher, on time.  Time extensions may be granted at the teacher’s discretion.

Students are under the same behavior rules as if they were actually on the school campus.  Field trip participation is a privilege.  Decisions regarding student participation may be based on attendance, grades, and/or behavior.

GRADING POLICY
Report cards are issued each nine weeks.  Progress reports are issued every three weeks between each nine week period.  Report cards and progress reports will be issued to students and are not mailed.  Grades are reported on a numerical basis.  To receive credit for a course, a student must maintain an average of 70 or above.  Grades are finalized at the end of each semester (December and May).  The finalized grades are used to calculate Grade Point Average (GPA).  The grading scale is as follows:

A = 93-100, B = 85-92, C = 75-84, D = 70-74, F = 0-69.

Grade classification occurs at the beginning of the academic school year.  Grade classification (promotion/retention) is based on total accumulated credits.  The number of credits required to enter each grade are as follows:
Entering 9th Grade        0—5 credits
Entering 10th Grade        6 credits
Entering 11th Grade        12 credits
Entering 12th Grade        18 credits


GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
All students are required to have the following for graduation:
English                4 credits
Math                4 credits
Science                4 credits
Social Studies            3 credits
Foreign Language        2 credits (same language)
Wellness            1 credit
Fine Art                1 credit

Beginning with the class of 2013, students will additionally need half a credit in Personal Finance and half a credit in Physical Education.

Class of 2011 will need 27 credits, Class of 2012 will need 26 credits, Class of 2013 will need 25 credits.

END OF COURSE EXAMS
The Tennessee Department of Education requires End of Course Exams to be administered to all students in Algebra 1, Geometry, Biology, US History, and English 9 and 10.  These exams will be given at the end of the appropriate course and will serve as both 20% of their grade and a graduation requirement.  If a student fails a test, that test must be taken and passed at a later, state-approved administration date in order to fulfill graduation requirements.  

HALL PASSES
Students are not permitted in the halls during class periods unless they have a notation from a staff member.

INSTRUCTIONAL CHARGES AND
FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS
The State Textbook Fund makes it possible for the Hamilton County Department of Education to furnish most free basic textbooks in grades 1 through 12. We must ask your cooperation in helping to provide necessary supplemental instructional materials.  Your instructional charge will be $65.00. Parental support by the prompt payment of this charge is greatly appreciated. The instructional charge/school fee is broken down as follows:

Agenda Mate            $5.00
Locker Maintenance        $3.00
Copy paper & machines        $24.00
Telephone maintenance        $4.00
Computers/Technology        $20.00
Workbooks:            $9.00
Total                $65.00

All charges are requested to be paid at registration.  If this causes a hardship, please indicate this in writing to your teacher.  In addition to the instructional charge, there may be specific charges by department (not every student will incur these fees). These charges are necessary to cover the expenses for the course:

Computer Lab:            $7.00-$20.00/course
Math:                $7.00-$22.00/course
PE/Uniforms:            $15.00
Science:            $15.00-$37.00/course
Social Studies:            $7.00-$10.00/course
English: (Novels)        $15.00-$35.00
(Varies as to teacher and class for novels)
Foreign Languages:        $15.00-$17.00/course
Art (Supplies):            $20.00-$38.00
Chorus Fee:            $38.00
(Festival Fees, Transportation, Music)
Parking Permit:            $75.00
Transcripts:            $1.00
Senior Fees            $90.00

A range of fees indicates differences in course selections.  Some courses or activities may have additional fees not listed here.  All financial obligations must be cleared before students take term exams.  If any monies are due the school or the Hamilton County Board of Education, report cards and transcripts will be held and students must take their exams on the make-up day.  There will be a $35 charge for any checks returned due to insufficient funds.



LOCKERS
Each student will be assigned a locker in which books, book bags, supplies, coats, and other articles are kept.  Students are not to share lockers.  No items of value should be left in lockers.  SMMHS will not be held responsible for lost or stolen articles.  Lockers are the property of the school and are subject to search by school officials at any time.  Any item found in the student’s locker is the responsibility of the student.  Student’s lockers will be assessed for exterior or interior damage or defacement.  If any damage is found, it will be the student’s responsibility to repair or, at the discretion of the administration, replace their damaged locker.

MEDIA CENTER POLICIES
Mission Statement
The Signal Mountain Middle/High School Media Center is an integral part of the instructional program which creates life long learners. To this end, the Media Center contributes to the effectiveness of teacher instruction and student discovery of the world by providing the school community with the best possible resources and services.

Circulation Policies
Loan limits
Students can check out a maximum of three items at any one time. Students that have reached this limit must return one of the items they have checked out before being able to check out an additional item.

Loan Period
Students may borrow Media Center materials for 21 calendar days with an optional 7 day renewal, unless an item is in high demand.

Returns and Overdue Materials
Students are responsible for timely return of Media Center materials. Overdue notices are sent by email. Overdue fines accrue at the rate of $.10 per day. Students have the option of paying fines either with cash or with canned goods or non-perishable food items.

Lost Materials
Materials that are 21 days overdue are assumed lost. Invoices for lost items will be issued near the end of each quarter. If payment for lost items is not received, quarterly report cards will be held. Payment includes the cost of the item and a $10 processing fee.
General Media Center Policies
    Food and drink are prohibited
    The Media Center offers an atmosphere conducive to studying, reading for pleasure, research and personal inquiry. For this reason, all students should be respectful of others while using the Media Center.
    Students may use the copy machine and printers in the Media Center at a nominal cost.
    Guidelines set by the HCDE Acceptable Use Policy apply to all computers in the Media Center.
    Email may be used for academic purposed only.
    Games may not be played on any computers in the Media Center.

Media Center Hours
The Media Center is open from 7:15am until 3:15pm Monday-Thursday and 7:15am until 2:15pm on Friday on regular school days. On early dismissal days, the Media Center will only be open during school hours.

Please refer to the Media Center website (www.smmhsmediacenter.org) for more information.

MEDICATION POLICY
Medication is not dispensed to students.  This includes, but is not limited to, aspirin, Tylenol, cough medicine, and/or antibiotics.  However, when children require long-term prescription medication, (such as Ritalin) the principal or his designee, in compliance with the following Hamilton County Department of education Board Medication Policy, will administer the medication.

“Medications should be limited to those required during school hours and necessary to maintain the child in school.  Medications should be administered by school nurses or other non-medical school personnel designated by the school principal.  Any student who is required to take medication during the regular school day must comply with the following regulations:
    A written permission form for prescription medications will be provided to the parent by the Health Services Department.  This form must be completely filled out and signed by both the parent(s) and child’s licensed health care provider.
    A new permission form must be provided to the school at the beginning of each new school year.  The permission form must be updated when there is a change in dosage or time of medication.
    Middle and High School students are permitted to bring medication to school provided it is taken to the office or clinic immediately upon the student’s arrival at school.  Medication must be in the original prescription bottle and refilled in like manner.  Failure to follow this regulation can result in a student being suspended.
    If medication is administered by non-medical school personnel, the school nurse will provide instruction on the proper administration of medication, and the potential benefits and side effects.  Any medication given will be documented on forms provided by the Health Services Department.
    All medication will be kept in locked areas.
    Any unused medication must be picked up by a parent or legal guardian at the end of the school year.  Unused medication that is not picked up on or before the last day of school, or medication that has expired, will be properly disposed of by the school.
    School nurses will monitor storage and proper documentation of medications administered, on a regular basis, to insure that medications are handled properly.
    All medications administered will be given in accordance with the above guidelines.
    Prescribed emergency medications to address life-threatening situations must be readily accessible to the students at all times.  These may be in the student’s possession or in a designated location as is appropriate to the situation (field trips, etc.).  Examples of these medications include, but are not limited to, asthma inhalers, epi-pens, glucose tablets, etc.
    The school system retains the right to reject requests for administering medications that are not in compliance with the above guidelines.”


PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION
Embracing, kissing, and behavior considered by social standards to be properly private, personal and intimate in nature are not permitted in school. Repeat offenders will be referred to an Assistant Principal, who will contact the parents/guardians of those reported.

PTSA
The SMMHS Parent Teacher Student Association works closely with the school's faculty and administration to promote the best possible education for our students.  By uniting parents, students, teachers, and the community we can offer our students the highest advantages in education. Membership dues are $5 per person and will be made available on the student's registration day.

SMMHS 2009-2010 PTSA Board
Executive Committee
President – Jill Steelman                    Secretary – Kay Turner
President-Elect –                         Treasurer – Kim Clausen
1st VP (MEF & Fundraising) – Kim Johnson            Parliamentarian*- Karen Dolmovich
2nd VP (Volunteers) – Connie Brown                Principal (ex-officio) - Tom McCullough
3rd VP (Communications) – Amy Meller                Asst. Principal (ex-officio) – Lisa Huskey
4th VP (Membership) – Patti Wier
5th VP (I-Fest) – Shelly Mitchell, Beth Smith
6th VP (Community Outreach) – Karlette Baker
                                       
Board of Managers (may be co-chairs as needed)
PTSA & Staff Support (report to VP Volunteers)
Hospitality (2) – (MS) Tiffany Ramey     (HS) Carmen Taylor
Staff Appreciation -Terra Hunt, Kirsta Oglesby, Kim Guin, Amy Peterson, Erica Shrum, Embree Poole
Grounds/Landscaping – Patty Rose
Workroom Volunteers - Tara Thompson
Library Volunteers – Paula Brymer
IB Learner Profile - Ann Arwood, Pam Billings
Student Achievement – (MS) Jamie Brock     (HS) Joy Tucker
Communications (report to VP Communications)
Newsletter - Leslie Bell
Marquee/Outdoor Signage - Alison Phillips
Newspaper - (MS) Andrea Sarvis    (HS) Lisa Stark
Historian - Berna Slabber
Website Liaison –
Nolan 5th Grade Liaison – Arlina Hensley
Thrasher 5th Grade Liaison – Amy Lamsey, Kirsta Oglesby
Community Outreach (report to VP Community Outreach))
Community Outreach Liaison - Mike Webb
Signal Mountain Social Services - Nancy McCaffrey
Health Fair Coordinator – Laura Giannunzio
Homecoming Committee – Jill Steelman, Yvonne Harvey, Tara Thompson, Meg Carpenter, Angela Williams, Sara Merkle, Karen Dolmovich, Kim Clausen                                  
Liaisons for:      Alexian -
    MBA - Karen Dolmovich
    Signal Mountain Town Council -              
    Walden Council – Lissa Goeltz
Fundraising (report to VP MEF & Fundraising)
MEF - Lea Ann Marshall
Eagle Deals – Connie Brown, Debbie Matthews
Sally Foster – Martha Nagle, Scottie Drennan
MEF Events & Programs - (MS) Carla Gravett    (HS) Amy Sowell
Parent/Student Events (report to VP Membership)
MS Talent Show – Tracy Faulkner
HS Talent Show - Erika Hogans
8th Grade Promotion - Pinky Young
12th Grade Graduation- Stacy Divine, Liz Wilkerson
Student Directory – Lisa Hawkins
PTSA Student Membership Drive – Lynn Davis
President Elect attends the following meetings & serves as Liaison to:
Monthly Faculty Meeting
Music Boosters  
Sports Boosters
Theatre Arts Boosters
If you would like to volunteer your assistance, please do not hesitate to contact someone on the list above.

SCHEDULE CHANGES
Valid schedule change requests are considered only through the first ten school days of the term.  Schedule request forms may be obtained in the School Counseling office, and may require signatures from teachers and parents.  Any change must be approved by an administrator or counselor.  Schedule changes will not be made because a student wants a different teacher, because he or she has not done the summer reading, or because a student wants to be in a class with friends, or other similar reasons.  Withdrawing from a course after ten days will result in a student receiving a grade of “WF” or “WP” for the semester.  Exceptions to this policy can be made only by the principal.
Withdrawal passing will receive no academic credit or have any impact on rank.  Withdrawal failing, and the grade given at the time of withdrawal, will be entered on the computer and the permanent record.  Students that withdraw from a class will remain in the classroom of the withdrawn class in a Study Hall setting or be placed according to administration.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS
The director of schools may close schools in the event of hazardous weather or any other emergency which presents a threat to the safety of students, staff members or school property.  As soon as the decision to close schools is made, the director of schools will notify the public media and request that an announcement be made.  If school is not in session or is dismissed early due to snow or inclement weather, all scheduled activities in which students are involved will be postponed or cancelled. The director of schools or his designee will review scheduled activities on a case-by-case basis in emergency situations to determine if an activity may be approved as scheduled.

SEARCHES
All students and visitors are subject to being searched for drugs, drug paraphernalia, dangerous weapons, and other property not properly in their possession.  
SEARCH OF LOCKERS - In accordance with Tennessee state law, students are notified that lockers and other storage areas are school property and are subject to search. TCA 49-6-4204
SEARCH OF PERSONS - A student may be subject to physical search because of the results of a locker search, or because of information received from a teacher, staff member, student or other person if such action is reasonable to the principal. TCA 49-6-4205
SEARCH OF VEHICLES - Vehicles located on school property are subject to search in accordance to: TCA 49-6-4206. Animals may be used to facilitate a search on school property in accordance with TCA 49-6-4208.

SENIOR PROJECT
The Capstone Project is a graduation requirement for all seniors and consists of 5 components:
1.  Choosing and performing a service project
2.  Writing a research paper
3.  Creating a product as a result of your learning
4.  Delivering an oral presentation
5.  Writing a reflective paper

VENDING MACHINES
Vending machines are provided as a convenience to students.  Students will not be issued passes out of class to use vending machines.  Eating and/or drinking in class will be at teacher discretion.

VISITORS
Tennessee State Law requires that guest passes be issued to anyone who is a visitor to a school other than enrolled students and school employees. All visitors must report directly to the front office and present a photo ID when signing the guest log.  Students are responsible for notifying their friends that they are not to be visited either in the building or anywhere on the school grounds.  Any person found on the school grounds without permission from the administration is trespassing and is subject to arrest by authorities.