WELCOME / PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

I want to welcome you and your child to Waterville Community for the 2023-2024 school year. The faculty and staff look forward to having your child! As principal of Waterville, I know that we have some of the best teachers in the county; however, as good as they are, they cannot teach your child everything that they need to know without your support and help.  I know that you are concerned about your child and that you expect him/her to have a good year and progress as far as possible.  For that to happen, you must become involved.  Please feel free to email or call your child’s teacher with any concerns that you may have.  Also, I am available to help you with any problems.  We believe that we can only be successful if your child is successful. 

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Bradley County School System is to provide an educational opportunity for every student to excel.

VISION STATEMENT

Growing Students – Building Futures

WE BELIEVE

Wisdom is sought from all stakeholders to promote a safe, successful learning environment. 

All student learning is held to the highest standard and performance and will be college and career ready.

Teamwork with all stakeholders is essential in policies, procedures, and practices.

Educational opportunity for success for all students is based on data-driven curriculum decisions.

Recognition and rewarding of effort and success is used to promote self-confidence.

Values, citizenship, and respect of others enable students to be responsible, productive citizens.

Individual needs of all students are met by striving for quality education/instruction.

Learning enhanced by technology is preparing students to meet future challenges.

Learning opportunities are provided for teachers to support effective teaching and assessment.

Environment is designed to optimize student achievement.

COMMUNICATION

Please do not hesitate to call (423) 478-8827 when any problem arises or when we can be of assistance. With our phone system, we cannot transfer calls to classrooms, but we will take a message, and your call will be returned as soon as possible. All of our teachers have an email address that you can easily locate at our school’s website at wces.bradleyschools.org. Once there, choose Classroom Pages and click on the name of your child’s teacher. If you would like to contact Mr. Paulson, his email is [email protected].

ONE CALL PHONE TREE SYSTEM

Waterville Community Elementary School utilizes the One Call Now Phone Tree System for weekly announcements as well as school reminders and inclement weather updates. 

CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR CONTACT INFORMATION

The school must have a correct home address and at least two telephone numbers where parents or emergency contacts can be reached in case of an emergency.  Please notify the school office at (423) 478-8827 if any changes occur.  While changes to phone numbers occur instantly at the school level, it may take up to a week for changes to be made in the One Call Now Phone Tree System.

If changes occur as to who can or can not check your child out of school, the parent or legal guardian must come to the office, in person, to make any changes.

SCHOOL HOURS

7:00 A.M. School Opens

7:00 A.M.       Breakfast served until 7:25

7:30 A.M.      Students report to class

7:45 A.M.      School Begins

  2:45 P.M.       1st bell, buses load

  2:50 P.M.       2nd bell, car riders

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL

The school will open each morning at 7:00.  Students should be dropped off in the front circle.  Do not drop off in ANY parking lot.  It is unsafe for your child, and school employees need clear access to parking spaces.  The back circle is reserved for buses and for parents who are dropping off a student with special needs.  If you choose to walk your child to the door, please park in a parking space and not in the front circle.  Students eating breakfast should go directly into the cafeteria.  All other students will have designated areas to adhere to social distancing.  At 7:30, the bus duty teachers will release the students to walk to their classrooms. 

 

Parents may walk their student to the classroom only during the first week of school. Parents must sign in to the office prior to doing so. 

At dismissal time, all parents picking up a student must have the student’s name displayed on a card provided by the school in the front window of the vehicle.  Drivers must remain in vehicles.  Students will be called to come to your car. We will not dismiss from the front office in the afternoons during dismissal times.  Third, fourth, and fifth grade car riders will be picked up at the back.  K, first, and second grade car riders will be picked up in the front.  **Exception:  Older siblings will go with second, first, and kindergarten.  All students must be picked up by 3:00.  Please notify the school office should an emergency arise causing pickup to be later than normal.  In the event there is a change in your child’s transportation, the teacher must be notified in writing.  If a note is not received, your child will follow his/her regular method of getting home.

ATTENDANCE

Attending school regularly has a significant, positive impact on your child’s academic success—from kindergarten through high school. Even as he or she grows older and more independent, you play a key role in making sure your child gets to school safely and on time every day. 

We realize some absences are unavoidable due to health problems or other circumstances. However, we also know that when students miss too much school—regardless of the reason—it can cause them to fall behind academically. Absences can add up quickly. Students are less likely to succeed academically if they miss 10% or more of instructional days over the course of the school year. (This means missing about two days of school per month or about 18 days per year). 

On July 1, 2018, the State of Tennessee mandated each school district to implement The Three Tier Progressive Truancy Intervention Program. Your student will enter Tier I of this program after three (3) UNEXCUSED ABSENCES. Tier I will include a parent meeting with school staff, an attendance contract, and a follow-up meeting. Tier II begins on any further UNEXCUSED ABSENCES after the initial attendance contract is signed. Included in Tier II is another meeting with the School Truancy Team, a referral to counseling or other community services, if needed, and regularly scheduled follow-up meetings to monitor your student’s attendance. Tier III begins on any further UNEXCUSED ABSENCE after the Tier II School Truancy Team Conference.  Tier III will be a referral to campus court. 

According to TCA 49-6-2007/TCA 49-6-3009, parents/legal guardians or the person having control over a student is subject to compulsory attendance, and they are legally responsible to monitor the student’s attendance and require the student to attend school. If your student is absent from school for an aggregate (total) of five (5) days during the school year without adequate excuse, then the student is subject to a juvenile court referral. Students are allowed three (3) parent notes each semester for an all-day absence to be an EXCUSED ABSENCE.

Excessive absences will affect his or her performance and grades, and if too excessive, may result in your child having to repeat a grade.  It is also your legal obligation to see that your child is in school.  Please insist that your child be here unless it is absolutely necessary for him/her to miss.  The following procedures should be followed relative to absences:

1. If your child misses a school day, please call the office,  ALSO send a note from the doctor or parent on the day that he/she returns, giving the reason for the child's absence.  Work missed for excused absences can be made up. According to Bradley County Board of Education policy, absences may be excused for the following reasons:

• Child’s personal illness / doctor appointment
• Illness of immediate family member requiring temporary help from the child
• Death in the family
• Extreme weather conditions
• Special religious holidays regularly observed by persons of their faith
• Summons, subpoena, or court order 
• Circumstances which in the judgment of the principal create emergencies over which the student has no control.

1. Military Service of Parent / Guardian. School principals shall provide students with one-day excused absence prior to the deployment of and a one-day excused absence upon the return of a parent or custodian serving active military service. Principals shall also allow up to ten (10) excused cumulative absences per year for students to visit a parent or guardian during a deployment cycle.  The student shall provide documentation to the school as proof of his/her parent’s/guardian’s deployment.  Students shall be permitted to make up school work missed during these absences.
2. BRADLEY COUNTY SCHOOLS ATTENDANCE POLICY:

Three (3) student absences (3 days) per semester may be excused by a parent note if they meet the criteria

set forth above (Excused Absences). The principal or his/her designee may require a doctor’s note for absences above three (3) in number. Failure to comply will result in the absence(s) being termed “unexcused”. Truancy is defined as an unexcused absence for any portion of the school day or any portion of a particular class without justifiable reason as determined by the administrator or designee.

The Tier Intervention guidelines specify that physician notes must be turned into the school within the three (3) day period following any absence as outlined in school policy. According to Board policy, unauthorized absence from school is considered truancy and will be treated as such.  Disciplinary action shall be taken in such cases. The attendance committee will pursue the available means to persuade or compel the student's return to regular attendance including a Campus Court hearing or an appearance in Family Court.

1. Students who arrive late (after 7:45) must come to the office to receive a tardy slip.  An adult must come into the office to sign in the child.  Sometimes students or parents run late.  However, keep in mind that late students regularly miss much class time when totals are added up, and if excessive, tardiness may begin to affect grades.  In addition to work missed, students who come in late disturb classes and create record-keeping problems for classroom teachers, office personnel, and cafeteria workers; all three areas must match in attendance and lunch records.  
2. A tardy is any time missed away from school.  This includes check-ins and check-outs.  Our office monitors excessive tardies and sends letters of concern to parents.  Please limit tardies to appointments and emergencies only. 
3.   Once a student arrives on campus, he or she will be permitted to leave only if an authorized parent or designated person (listed on the registration form) comes to the office to check him/her out.  Please do not feel offended when we ask for identification. The safety of your child is our top priority. If you have custody and you do not want the other parent to pick up your child, we must have a copy of a court order on file that instructs us not to let the other parent have access to your child; otherwise, a parent, having custody or not, can pick up his/her child.  If you need to pick up your child during the day, please park in a parking space, come into the office and sign out your child.  Absolutely no one is allowed to go directly to the classrooms without clearance from the office.
4. All students who have perfect attendance will receive an award certificate at the end of the year.  For perfect attendance check-in time will be 11:29 a.m. and check-out time will be 11:01 a.m.

MATERIALS FEES

 Instructional material fees are set by the Board of Education and will remain $30.00 for this year.  Please make check payable to Waterville Community School.  This is due during the first two weeks of school.

TECHNOLOGY INSURANCE

An annual technology charge of $30 ($15 for students enrolling in the second semester) is payable at the beginning of the school year to WCES. This charge serves as an insurance policy and covers the cost of all regular maintenance of software and hardware for the device for one year and covers the first incident of accidental damage. This charge does not cover the loss of the device, cosmetic damage, or damages caused by intentional misuse or abuse. The charging cord that comes with the device is not covered by this charge and the replacement cost is the parents/students responsibility. 

BREAKFAST & LUNCH

Waterville Community School is proud to be part of a   CEP program for  2022-2023.  All students will receive meals at no cost to parents.  A nutritious breakfast and lunch is available each day. We do not allow food  from restaurants to be brought to school.  Childhood obesity is a very real concern, and our School Health Index program discourages fast food.  Breakfast will be served from 7:00 until 7:25 each morning.  The following prices will be in effect:

BREAKFAST:

• Due to limited space, outside visitors will not be allowed for breakfast.

LUNCH:

• Extra milks are $0.45 each.
• Due to limited space, outside visitors will not be allowed to have lunch.

Hot meals are excellent and we urge all students to participate.  Please do not send drinks or other items in glass containers.  No carbonated beverages should be brought to school unless requested by the teacher (i.e. field trip, class reward, ect.).    

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are issued four times during the school year at the end of each 9 weeks. Progress reports will be issued midway through each semester to allow you to check on your child's current academic status. You may receive more reports if your child has an academic deficiency and the teacher feels as if a conference would help.  In addition, teachers normally send a packet of materials and grade reports home once a week.  Look for these and check your child's progress so that you get no surprises when grade cards are issued.  If you wish to meet with your child's teacher or other school personnel, please call the school in order to make an appointment; parent-requested conferences are normally held after 2:45.  The grading scale is as follows:

Grade K	Grades 1 - 5
+ Mastered	A = 90 - 100
- Not Mastered	B = 80 - 89
S = Satisfactory	C = 70 – 79
P = Progressing in acquiring skill	D = 60 - 69
N = Needs help	F = 59 or below

STUDENT LED/PARENT CONFERENCES

Student led/parent conferences will take place once each semester.  These will help keep you up to date on your child’s progress.

PARENT VUE

Parent VUE is a wonderful tool to establish a communication channel between the home and the school.  This capability of our student information system allows parents to view attendance (K-5) and grades (1-5). Returning students will have the same activation key as in the past; however, in order for new students to receive an activation key; a parent /guardian must come to the main office to receive the information. Given the sensitive nature of the data contained in the Parent VUE, WCES will not send home activation key information with students.

DRESS CODE

School uniforms are not required, but students should come to school clean, appropriately dressed, and ready to learn. Please label all coats, jackets, and lunch boxes with students’ first and last names. The elementary dress code is as follows:

1. Shoes must be worn at all times.  This is in compliance with state health and safety regulations. Tennis shoes are recommended, and required on days students have PE.  
2. No hats, caps, or hoods should be worn inside the building except on designated days.
3. Body piercing jewelry will be limited to earrings due to safety concerns. 
4. The top garment (blouse or shirt) must overlap the bottom garment; no halter tops, spaghetti straps, bare midriffs or backsides are permitted.
5. Shorts and skirts should reach one’s fingertips when arms are held to their sides. Pants or shorts should not have holes above the knee.
6. Clothing which advertises tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, illicit drugs, lewd or inappropriate graphics may not be worn.
7. Any form of dress that is immodest, offensive, or disruptive to the learning atmosphere may not be worn.  
8. Parents must follow the same dress code while on school property or field trips.

In matters of opinion, discretion of the administration will have final determination.

STUDENT CODE OF BEHAVIOR & DISCIPLINE

One of the most important lessons that education should teach is discipline.  Although it does not appear as a subject, it underlies the whole educational structure.  With effective discipline, the classroom operates efficiently and student achievement soars.  Therefore, Waterville has chosen to be a School Wide Positive Behavior Support School.  With SWPBS we have adopted three expectations.  Be Respectful, Be Responsible and Be Ready.  We will explicitly teach those expectations to the students and reward them frequently with positive notes and prizes for their great behavior.  The expectations for all student behavior will be clear throughout our building.  We will provide a common language for everyone in our building, including students, teachers, front office staff and our paraprofessionals.  We believe that by helping students practice good behavior, we will build a school community where all students have an environment where they can succeed and grow.

1. Students will attend school regularly and will be on time.
2. Students will be respectful and courteous to teachers, cafeteria workers, bus drivers, and other adults and students on campus and the bus.
3. Students will walk quietly in the hallways and will respect school property.
4. Students will be respectful of each individual's rights and will refrain from fighting and other disruptive behavior.
5. Students will leave toys, playing cards, IPods, knives, and other items of similar nature at home.
6. Students will refrain from using or possessing tobacco products, vapes, alcohol, drugs, or chewing gum on school campus or school buses.

1. Students will observe all classroom, playground, cafeteria, and bus-duty rules, as well as rules adopted by the Bradley County Board of Education.

DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT/HAZING (SEXUAL, RACIAL, ETHNIC, RELIGIOUS) 

Students shall be provided a learning environment free from sexual, racial, ethnic and religious discrimination/harassment and hazing. It shall be a violation of this policy for any employee or any student to discriminate against, harass or haze a student through disparaging conduct or communication that is sexual, racial, ethnic or religious in nature. The following guidelines are set forth to protect students from discrimination/harassment/hazing.

Discrimination/Harassment/Hazing  

Student discrimination/harassment/hazing will not be tolerated. Discrimination/harassment is defined as conduct, advances, gestures or words either written or spoken of a sexual, racial, ethnic or religious nature. Hazing is defined as an intentional or reckless act on or off school property, by one student acting alone or with others, directed against any other student that (1) endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student or (2) induces or coerces a student to endanger that student's mental or physical health or safety. Hazing does not include physical contact associated with athletic events, athletic training, or with competition conducted under a coach’s or sponsor’s supervision.

The following are outcomes relative to the above definitions;  

1. Unreasonable interference with the student's work or educational opportunities; or  
2. Creation of an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning environment; or  
3. Insinuation that submission to such conduct is made an explicit or implicit term of receiving grades or credit; or  
4. Insinuation that submission to or rejection of such conduct will be used as a basis for determining the student's grades and/or participation in student activities. 

Bullying/Intimidation  

Students shall be provided a safe learning environment. It shall be a violation of this policy for any student to bully, intimidate, haze or create a hostile educational environment for another student. Harassment, bullying, hazing and intimidation occurs if the act takes place on school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school provided equipment or transportation or at any official school bus stop, if the act either physically harms a student or damages his/her property, or knowingly places the student in reasonable fear of such, causes emotional distress to a student or students, or creates a hostile educational environment. If the act takes place off school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity, the act shall be considered harassment, bullying, hazing or intimidation if it is directed specifically at a student or students and has the effect of creating a hostile educational environment or otherwise creating a substantial disruption to the education environment or learning process. These acts may also take place through electronic means. Electronic devices include, but are not limited to, telephones, cellular phones or other wireless telecommunication devices, text messaging, emails, social networking sites, instant messaging, videos, websites or fake profiles.

Alleged victims of the above-referenced offenses shall report these incidents immediately to a teacher, counselor or building administrator. Any allegations shall be fully investigated by a complaint manager (as set forth in Student Concerns, Complaints and Grievances 6.305). 

The privacy and anonymity of all parties and witnesses to complaints will be respected. However, because an individual's need for confidentiality must be balanced with obligations to cooperate with police investigations or legal proceedings, to provide due process to the accused, to conduct a thorough investigation or to take necessary action to resolve a complaint, the identity of parties and witnesses  may be disclosed in appropriate circumstances to individuals with a need to know. 

A discrimination/harassment/hazing statement referencing this policy shall be distributed to students annually through the parent/student handbook and/or posted to each school's website. 

Building administrators are responsible for educating and training their respective staff and students as to the definition and recognition of discrimination/harassment. 

Coaches and other employees of the school district shall not encourage, permit, condone or tolerate hazing activities.

Bradley County Policy 6.304/T.C.A. 49-6-4501 

TIPS

The administration and staff of Bradley County Schools are dedicated to providing a safe and secure learning environment for all children, visitors, and staff. We believe in partnering with our parents and community to combat bullying, school violence, and any behaviors disruptive to schools. Bullying at school affects and is affected by what happens after school, at home and even online.  We must work together to take immediate actions and help our students, whether they are a bully, a victim of bullying or a bystander. 

Bradley County Schools has implemented a web-based incident reporting tool called TIPS. TIPS is a comprehensive platform for reporting, tracking and documenting incidents and concerns. TIPS empowers students, parents, teachers and community members to be heard and to anonymously report warning signs and trouble.  The goal of TIPS is prevention and to help identify red flags and warning signs before an incident occurs or escalates. 

If you or your child would like to report a concern, please visit the Bradley County Schools’ website (www.bradleyschools.org) and click on the TIPS Incident Report button.  All reports are confidential, and your name will only be shared if you provide contact information.  As soon as a report is made, the appropriate school personnel will receive an instant notification, review the incident and take appropriate actions. 

By working together, we can prevent incidents from occurring and ensure the safety and security of our students. With TIPS students and parents can report:

• Bullying
• Cyber Bullying
• Threats to Harm
• Suicidal Threats
• Discrimination
• Harassment
• Theft
• Violence
• Drug/Alcohol Abuse
• Weapons
• And Much More

TRANSPORTATION & SCHOOL BUS RIDERS CODE OF CONDUCT

BUS DUTY CODE OF CONDUCT

Bus duty teachers will release students at 7:30 to walk to their classrooms.  No students will be allowed to go to their classrooms or to any area other non-designated area before 7:30. (Without prior approval from the office or a staff member.)  Please help us with this policy even if you are walking your child into the building.  This morning time represents some of the teacher’s planning time for the day and they are busy preparing for class; therefore, students are not allowed in the classrooms during this time.

1. Obey and respect directions from the bus duty teacher.
2. No yelling, excessive noise, wrestling,or playing.
3. Remain in your seat and grade section unless you have permission from the bus duty teacher to move or to leave your seat.
4. Enter your designated area as soon as you leave your ride (bus or car) or as soon as you are through with breakfast.

INAPPROPRIATE ITEMS

Items such as skateboards, electronic devices,  radios, cameras, trading cards,fidget spinners,  toys, laser pointers, etc. are not necessary to the instructional program and may be disruptive and therefore should be left at home.  If these items or others not essential to the educational process are brought to school, they will be confiscated and returned only to a parent or guardian who comes to pick them up.  Repeated offenses may result in harsher consequences.

CELL PHONES

Students may have a cell phone at school.  It must be turned off and kept in the student’s backpack. Cell phones may be confiscated if not in compliance. Students may use the school phone with permission from a school employee.  School Board Policy states “Sexting, the electronic transmission or “reception and retention” of pornographic pictures, if found on a device in the possession of a student on school property or at a school-related event, will result in suspension/expulsion.  Sexting events that occur off campus are subject to review by school officials to determine whether or not bullying or harassment is involved.  In the event the picture exploits a minor, all students involved will be reported to law enforcement authorities.”

WEAPONS AND THREATS

Threats to students or staff will be taken seriously and will not be tolerated.  This includes harassment of younger students by older students at school, on the bus or bus stops, or any school-related function.  No type of gun or knife (even play) can be brought on school campus and could be considered a weapon; this could lead to a zero-tolerance violation and could be grounds for up to a year suspension.

Waterville Community School recognizes violence as any inappropriate word, look, sign, or act that hurts a person’s body, self-worth, or things.  We also recognize bullying as a type of violence that occurs when someone uses his or her power unfairly and repeatedly to hurt someone else.  To make our school violence-free and safe from bullying, we pledge:  not to tolerate bullying, to intervene in incidents of bullying and strictly enforce rules against bullying, and to empower students to report bullying behavior and to treat one another with respect.

DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS – POLICY 6.307

In order to protect the rights of students, to safeguard the learning environment, and to contribute to a “Drug Free” community, compliance with this policy is mandatory.

Students will not consume, possess, use, sell, distribute or be under the influence of illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages in school buildings or on school grounds at any time, in school vehicles or buses, or at any school sponsored activity, function or event whether on or off school grounds.  This includes but is not limited to abuse of inhalants and prescription drugs.

Disciplinary sanctions will be imposed on students who violate standards of conduct required by this policy.  Such sanctions will be consistent with local, state and federal laws, up to and including suspension/expulsion as well as referral for prosecution.  Completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program may also be recommended.

ZERO TOLERANCE

In order to ensure a safe and secure learning environment, the following offenses will not be tolerated.  A student cannot bring:

• Weapons and Dangerous Instruments
• Firearms (as defined in 18 U.S.C. 921)
• Drugs
• Assault
• Electronic Threats
• Battery against a school employee or a school resource officer.  

A student who commits one of the above offenses can be expelled for a period of one calendar year.  Only the director of schools shall have the authority to modify this expulsion.

JUVENILE CITATION PROGRAM

Consult with the principal.

LOST AND FOUND

A “lost and found” area is located near the office.  Students and/or parents should check periodically if something is missing.  Coats, workbooks, notebooks, and other items should be labeled with student name.  Items not claimed will be disposed of after a reasonable length of time.

STUDENT HEALTH

If a student is required to take medication during school hours and the parent cannot come to the school to administer the medicine, then the nurse will give medicine under the following certain guidelines:

• The parent/legal guardian is required to deliver the medication to school and sign a district medication form.  Do not send medications on the bus or into school with a student.  All medication must be brought in by an adult in the original prescription container labeled with the following typed information:
• Student’s name
• Name of medication
• Time(s) to be administered
• Dosage
• Strength
• Directions for use
• Approximate duration of use
• Physician’s name
• Date
• Pharmacy name, address, phone number
• A non-prescription (over the counter) medication must also be accompanied by the medication form and in the original container for the medication.  The parent must provide the same type information as that of the prescription drugs (dates, times, dosage, etc.).
• Any changes in medication must be accompanied by a new form and a new label indicating the changes.  A faxed or hard copy physician’s order to change the administration of a drug may also be accepted (Fax number 478-8873).  
• School personnel and employees cannot be responsible for the adequacy of prescribed medications or medical treatments recommended by physicians or related medical professionals and/or supplied by pharmacist or other sources outside of the school and, therefore, will assume no responsibility for the effects of such medications or treatments upon students.
• Please do not send your student to school if they are exhibiting the following symptoms: a temperature of 100.0 or greater, vomiting, or diahrea. They must be 24 hours symptom free without medication to return to class.
• Our school will not accept floral deliveries of latex balloons due to extreme allergies of a few of our students.
• No outside food including birthday treats will be accepted until further notice.

TEXTBOOKS / LIBRARY BOOKS

Students are expected to take good care of textbooks and library books.  Textbooks are furnished and students assume full responsibility for the care of books lent to them.  Books are issued by the teacher and must be returned to that teacher at the completion of the school year or withdrawal from school.  If a book is lost, payments must be made toward the book before new books can be issued.  If books are damaged, a damage charge is required depending on the degree of damage and the condition of the book when it was issued.  If payment is not made by the end of the school year, then, according to state law, grade cards can be withheld.  This year we are charging five cents a day for overdue library books.

TESTING

The Tennessee Department of Education has set tentative test dates for the 2022-20223 school year as April 18- May 5th.. When scheduling student appointments please keep in mind that students will test in the mornings during those dates.

VISITORS

Anyone coming into the building must sign-in and receive a badge at the front desk.  A visitor’s driver’s license will be scanned and a picture badge will be printed.  Access throughout the building is limited for safety. Check out will occur when the visitor returns the badge to the office staff.

VOLUNTEERS

One of the best ways to help your child is to become a volunteer.  Waterville Community School has a Volunteer Program and will assist you in understanding our program and methods of working with the students.  There are guidelines that have been developed and you must agree to work within those guidelines in order to be a volunteer.

WITHDRAWALS

Students needing to withdraw from school must have a parent/guardian report to the office and receive a transfer form that must be signed by the parent/guardian and the principal.  These signatures indicate clearance with regard to textbooks, library books, other school equipment, and debts.

INCLEMENT WEATHER PROCEDURES

The principal’s office will be in constant contact with the Civil Defense by way of emergency weather radio so that early warning can be received concerning possible severe weather.  Students will be sent home only if we are sure there is sufficient time to get them there before severe weather strikes.  Parents are urged not to come to school for children if the severe weather is already in the immediate area since students would be safer at school than traveling under these conditions.

Drills will be held regularly at the school so that the children will be familiar with safety areas and procedures.  If it becomes necessary to send students home the Director of Schools, along with Emergency Management, Bradley County Sheriff’s Department, and local weather forecasters will make that decision.  Parents are advised to listen to local radio stations in these situations.  Our One Call Now Phone System will make a call to your home phone and emergency contact number.  You may also sign up for the Nixle alert system through our Bradley County Schools website, you will be notified of closings at the same time we receive the notification.

When the schools are dismissed because of inclement weather, our bus schedule is as follows, in order:

• High Schools
• Middle Schools
• Elementary Schools

The reason for this is to start the buses in town and progress to the communities.  This will eliminate the buses having to be on the road for a longer period of time with the possibility of conditions becoming worse.

Because of the road conditions, the buses may not be able to make the same route.  If you live in a subdivision or area where hills exist, you may need to make plans to meet your child at the entrance to the subdivision.  If we cannot get your child within a reasonable distance, we will return the child to school as a last resort.  Please make plans with (and for) your children should there be an early dismissal due to inclement weather.

Severe Weather – Please listen to the radio or TV to get news of school closings. 

Tornado Warning – We go on lock down. All personnel and visitors will join the students in the interior of the building. No check-outs will be allowed. 

Disaster Policy – Waterville Community School in conjunction with Bradley County Schools and Bradley County Sheriff’s Office have implemented a comprehensive disaster plan which is on file in the principal’s office.

MISCELLANEOUS PROCEDURES

Ball Teams/Cheerleading – Activities are sponsored and controlled by the Bradley County Recreation Department.  Concerns or questions should be addressed to 

(423) 728-7035.

Field Trips – Field trips must have an educational purpose.  We appreciate parents going as chaperones.  We ask that no younger siblings go on the field trip.

Media Access To Students – Policy 6.604 – School administrators shall be authorized to grant permission and set parameters for media access to students in their respective schools. The media may interview and photograph students involved in instructional programs and school activities including athletic events.  Such media access shall not be unduly disruptive and shall comply with Board Policies.

Military - We will not release information concerning your child to military personnel without your consent. 

Searches – Anyone and their vehicle on school grounds are subject to search by school officials.

Student Surveys – Policy 6.4001 – Prior to the dissemination of a survey, analysis, or evaluation to students, parents/guardians shall be notified of their ability to review the materials.  Following such notification and prior to the administration of the survey, analysis, or evaluation, parents/guardians may opt their child out of participation.

Tobacco Use / Possession – All Bradley County Schools including WCES are tobacco free.  No tobacco product of any kind will be allowed on campus at any point (day or night), this includes e-cigarettes and vapors.

ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN

A Management Plan, which identifies and assesses the asbestos found in facilities, has been prepared for each school in Bradley County.  A copy of the Management Plan has been approved and distributed to each school.  The public may view the Management Plan during normal operating hours by contacting the school office.

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY FOR STUDENTS AND EMPLOYEES

Title VI of Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 require school districts to have officially adopted policy statements of nondiscrimination on basis of sex, handicap, national origin, and race.

It is the policy of the Bradley County School System not to discriminate on the basis of sex, national origin, creed, age, marital status, or disability in its educational programs, career and technical education opportunities, activities, or employment policies as required by Title VI and VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments and Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990.

Students and employees shall be provided a learning and working environment free from sexual, racial, ethnic, and religious discriminate against or harass a student through disparaging conduct or communication that is sexual, racial, ethnic, or religious in nature. 

Inquiries regarding compliance with the non-discrimination policy may be directed to the principal, coordinator (complaint manager), secondary supervisor, or the office of the Director of Schools. (Refer to policy 6.304, 6.305, 5.500, and the memorandum of agreement: Teacher Contract Section IG-Grievance Procedure)

 

INTERNET USAGE

Bradley County Schools provides network services to assist in preparing students for success in life and work in the 21st century by providing them with electronic access to a wide range of information and the ability to communicate with people throughout the world.  Network privileges include access to the internet.  These privileges are not without responsibilities and Bradley County Schools has developed an acceptable use policy.  Students and parents are expected to have read and be aware of the acceptable use policy.  Violations will be dealt with appropriately.  To view this policy you can go to www.bradleyschools.org or ask your local school for a copy of the policy.  Parents may specifically request that their child(ren) not be provided such access by notifying the building principal in writing.

TRANSFER OPTION for STUDENTS VICTIMIZED BY VIOLENT CRIME at SCHOOLS

Under the Tennessee State Board of Education’s Unsafe School Choice Policy, any public school student who is the victim of a violent crime as defined under Tennessee Code Annotated 40-38-111(g), or the attempt to commit one of these offenses as defined under Tennessee Code Annotated 30-12-101, shall be provided an opportunity to transfer to another grade-level appropriate school within the district.

Additional information regarding this option may be obtained by contacting the appropriate grade-level supervisor.

Mrs. Elizabeth Kaylor

Supervisor of Elementary Instruction

423-476-0620    

 or

Mr. Todd Shoemaker

Supervisor of Secondary Instruction

423-476-0620

STUDENT RECORDS ANNUAL NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS – Policy 6.601

Within the first three weeks of each school year, the school system will notify parents of each student’s privacy rights.  For students enrolling after this period, this information shall be given to the student’s parents at the time of enrollment. 

The student’s parent or the eligible student has the right to:

1. Inspect and review the student’s education records;
2. Seek correction of items in the record which are believed to be inaccurate,  misleading or in violation of the student’s rights, including the right to a hearing upon request;
3. File a complaint with the appropriate state and federal officials when the school system violates laws and regulations relative to student records;
4. Obtain a copy of this policy and copy of the student’s educational records;
5. Exercise control over other people’s access to the records, except when prior written consent is given, or under circumstances as provided by law or regulations, or where the school system has designated certain information as “directory information.”  Parents of students or eligible students have two weeks after notification to advise the school system in writing of items they designate not to be used as directory information.  The records custodian shall mark the appropriate student records for which directory information is to be limited, and this designation shall remain in effect until it is modified by the written direction of the student’s parents or the eligible student.  

DIRECTORY INFORMATION – Policy 6.601

“Directory information” relating to a student includes the following:  name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received and the most recent or previous educational agency or institution attended by the student.  Student directory information for 11th and 12th graders shall be made available upon request to persons or groups which make students aware of occupational and educational options, including official recruiting representatives of the military forces of the State and the United States.

STUDENT RIGHTS and SERVICES

Information on student rights and services can be found at the state department of education and with advocacy groups.

East Tennessee Regional Resource Center

2763 Island Home Blvd.

Knoxville, TN  37290

Phone: 865-594-5691

Fax: 865-594-8909

The ARC of Tennessee

44 Vantage Way, Suite 550

Nashville, TN  37228

Phone: 615-248-5878

Fax: 615-248-5879

State Department of Education 1-888-212-3162

CONTACT INFO FOR CHILD ADVOCACY GROUPS

The following contact information is provided to parents and guardians who may need to contact the Tenn. Department of Education for information on student rights or other information.

In addition to the state and local resources for  parents and children, there are many agencies and organizations that offer support, information, training, and help in advocating for persons with disabilities in TN. Some include:

Legal Services Division

Department of Education   toll-free 888-212-3162 or visiting http://tn.gov/education/topic/special-education-legal-services

Disability Law & Advocacy Center of Tennessee http://www.dlactn.org/

615-298-1080 

800-287-9636 

800-342-1660 

TTY: 615-298-2471 

Vanderbilt University Legal Clinic 

615-322-4964 

University of Tennessee Legal Clinic 

865-974-2331 

The Arc of Tennessee http://www.thearctn.org/

615- 248-5878 

800-835-7077

Support and Training for Exceptional Parents (STEP) http://www.tnstep.org/ West Tennessee:

901-726-4334 

Middle Tennessee: 

615-463-2310 

East Tennessee: 

423-639-2464

Legal Aid of East Tennessee 

Johnson City 

800-821-1312 

423-928-8311 

Knoxville 

865-637-0484 

Chattanooga 

800-572-7457 

423-756-4013 

http://www.tennlegalaid.com/

West Tennessee Legal Services 

731-423-0616 

800-372-8346 

http://www.wtls.org

Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee 

931-528-7436 

615-244-6610

Tennessee Voices for Children http://www.tnvoices.org West Tennessee:  1920 Kirby Parkway Suite 200 Memphis, TN 38138 (p) 901-758-2522 (f) 615-269-8914 Middle Tennessee 701 Bradford Avenue Nashville, TN 37204 (p) 615-269-7751 (f) 615-269-8914 East Tennessee P.O. Box 20847 Knoxville, TN 37940 (p) 865-523-0701 (f) 865-523-0705 A more extensive list of service organizations can be accessed via the Disability Pathfinder Database: http://kc.vanderbilt.edu/pathfinder/

1-to-1 Technology Procedures and Guidelines

Bradley County Schools strongly believes that technology is a tremendous source that provides countless opportunities for students and staff in educational settings. We have developed a 1-to-1 device program to provide each student with the opportunity to use technology in a way that will enrich and support a high quality learning experience. 

Distribution and Collection of Student Devices 

Each year, the 1-to-1 Technology Guidelines and Contractual Agreement and the annual technology charge must be submitted as part of the required beginning of the year paperwork. An annual technology charge of $30 ($15 for students enrolling in the second semester) has been established and is payable at the beginning of the school year. This charge serves as an insurance policy and covers the cost of all regular maintenance of software and hardware for the device for one year and covers the first incident of accidental damage. This charge does not cover the loss of the device, cosmetic damage, or damages caused by intentional misuse or abuse. The charging cord that comes with the device is not covered by this charge and the replacement cost is the parents/students responsibility. The contractual agreement must be submitted, and the charge paid, prior to students being permitted to take a device home. 

At the conclusion of each school year or upon unenrollment, students must return their device and its accessories (charger, cords, cases, etc…) in the same condition as distributed. If a student withdraws from the school, the student must submit their device and its accessories on the last day of attendance. Failure to return these items at the end of the school year or when withdrawing from the school will result in a charge of $300 for Chromebooks and $350 for iPads to cover the replacement cost of the device and case. In addition, the school may file a report of stolen property with local law enforcement if not returned. Students are responsible for any damages as determined by the school.

Asset Tags (barcodes)

All devices are labeled with a school asset tag which contains a barcode. Asset tags may not be removed or modified in any way. Students may be charged up to the full replacement cost of a device for tampering with a school asset tag or returning a device without the school asset tag in its original place. 

Protective Carrying Cases 

It is very important that students do not carry their devices in their backpacks. When a case is provided by the school, it must be used at all times.  In the case of Chromebooks, school-issued cases come with a warranty against manufacturing defects. Normal wear and tear to the case is not covered by this warranty. Cases and covers that are damaged beyond usability due to normal wear and tear will be replaced at no additional cost to the student by the school. Damage to the case that is willful or malicious and results in the case no longer being usable will be replaced at the cost of the student. Each case costs $40. It remains the student’s responsibility to care for and protect his/her device even when a case is provided. 

Logging into a Chromebook 

Students in grades 2-12 will be issued Chromebooks and will login using their school issued G-Suite for Education account. Login to assigned Chromebooks will be limited to the account of the student that has been assigned the device and the school’s Technology Team. Use of another student’s device is not allowed. 

Logging into an iPad

Students in grades K-1 will be issued iPads and will not need a specific login to access the device.  Some apps on iPads will require the use of student logins that are unique to that software.  Your child’s classroom teacher can provide login information.

Taking Care of Your Device 

Each student is responsible for the general care of the device that he/she was issued by the school. Devices that are broken or fail to work properly must be submitted to the school no later than 48 hours from the incident. School-owned devices should never be taken to an outside computer service for any type of repairs or maintenance. Students should never leave their devices unattended unless locked in a secure location. 

General Precautions 

• Devices should not be used near food or drink; used or stored near pets; and must remain free of any writing, drawing, stickers, and labels. 
• Devices should be used with caution when plugged in as the cord may be a tripping hazard. 
• Devices should not have heavy objects placed on them and should never be forced into a storage space. 
• Devices should be transported with care. 
• Devices should not be transported in backpacks and should not be removed from the school-provided case during transport. (iPads should remain in cases even when in use.) 
• Device screens should be cleaned with a soft, dry microfiber cloth or anti-static cloth and should not be cleaned with cleaning wipes. 
• Chromebooks should be closed after making sure there is nothing on the keyboard. They should be carried in a closed position and never be lifted or carried by the screen. 

Preparation and Use for the School Day 

Each student is expected to bring a fully charged device and charger to school every day.  School-issued chargers should remain with the device at all times. The student’s device must be taken to each class throughout the day. Browser history may not be deleted at any time.  If no browser history exists or if evidence indicates that a portion of the browser history has been removed, then disciplinary action will occur.  Random checks of browser history should be expected.  Inappropriate media may not be used or accessed at any time. The presence of such media will result in disciplinary action. Sound must be muted at all times unless directed otherwise by a teacher. Students should have their own, personal set of earbuds or headphones for sanitary reasons. Do not store earbuds or headphones inside the device section of the case. In the event that a student forgets to bring their device to school, completion of assignments may be hindered.  Repeat offenses may result in forfeiture of usage privileges.

Using Your Chromebook Outside of School 

Students are encouraged to use their devices for school work at home and other locations outside of school. A WiFi internet connection will be required for the majority of device use; however, some applications can be used while not connected to the Internet. Students are bound by the Acceptable Use Policy and other technology policies as posted on the Bradley County Schools website as well as all procedures outlined in this document regardless of whether a device is used on or off school grounds. 

Operating System and Security 

A student may not use or install any operating system on his/her device other than the current operating system that is supported and managed by the school. The device operating system will be updated automatically under the control of the Bradley County Schools network. Students do not need to manually update devices. 

Virus Protection 

Devices use the principle of “defense in depth” to provide multiple layers of protection against viruses and malware including firewalls, data encryption, and verified boot. There is no need for additional virus protection. 

Content Filter 

The school utilizes an Internet content filter that is compliant with the federally mandated Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). All Chromebooks, owned by the school, will have all internet activity monitored by the school no matter where it is located. If an educationally valuable site is blocked, a student should contact his/her teacher to request the site be unblocked. iPads will have internet safeguards while connected to the school WiFi; however, internet access at home or in other public places may not meet CIPA requirements and will need close monitoring by parents. Ultimately, the responsible use of the device falls on the student and his/her parents. 

Repair or Replacement 

All devices in need of repair must be brought to the school no later than 48 hours from the incident. Staff will examine the device and take the appropriate solution path to get the device repaired. The first repair for accidental damage is covered by the annual technology charge, but subsequent repairs may require additional charges. If the student did not pay the annual technology charge, then he/she is financially responsible for the full expenses incurred by repairs for both accidental and intentional damage. Repairs for damage caused through willful or malicious intent are the financial responsibility of the student/parents. Repeated incidents of repair, whether caused by willful or accidental damage, may result in the loss of device usage.

Lost or Stolen Chromebooks 

If a device is lost or stolen during the school day, then the student should notify the school immediately. Proper direction and protocol will be provided at that time. If a student’s device is lost or stolen outside of the school day, then the student and parents must contact local law enforcement and the school to report a theft within 48hrs of the incident. If a device is reported as stolen, a copy of the police report must be provided to the school as soon as possible. 

No Expectation of Privacy 

Students have no expectation of confidentiality or privacy with respect to any usage of a technology device, regardless of whether that use is for school-related or personal purposes, other than as specifically provided by law. The school may, without prior notice or consent, log, supervise, access, view, monitor, and record use of district-owned devices at any time for any reason related to the operation of the school. Monitoring software will be managed and engaged at all times regardless of the location of the device.  By using a school device, students agree to such access, monitoring, and recording of their use. A paper/electronic report can be generated to include but not limited to the user log, and record of use. The report generated may be shared with Bradley County Schools’ personnel and/or law enforcement. 

Appropriate Uses and Digital Citizenship 

School-issued devices are to be used for educational purposes, and students are to adhere to the technology guidelines within the Acceptable Use Policy as signed at the start of the school year and all of its corresponding administrative procedures at all times. Students in violation of these guidelines or other procedures outlined in this document will be subject to disciplinary actions. Students who do not adhere to these policies could have their devices confiscated and network privileges at school eliminated. Additional consequences may include, but are not limited to, suspension, loss of privileges, and inconvenience in completing teacher-assigned work.