ORS Discipline Handbook

To Students, Parents and Oak Ridge Schools Staff:

At Oak Ridge Schools, we are committed to fostering an educational atmosphere where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our discipline policies are designed to support this commitment by promoting positive behavior, personal responsibility, and mutual respect. The guidelines outlined in this handbook reflect our dedication to maintaining a school environment that is conducive to learning and personal development.

It is the purpose of the Oak Ridge Schools Discipline Code booklet to provide the framework for governing student policies related to disciplinary expectations, procedures and responsibilities approved by the Board of Education. This publication provides students, parents, school personnel, and the public a concise and comprehensive description of the minimum standards of behavior for all students enrolled in the public schools of Oak Ridge. It defines appropriate student conduct and presents a menu of alternatives to be employed by school administrators and staff to address individuals who exhibit inappropriate behavior. Emphasis is placed upon the right of all students to accept the challenge of maximizing their educational program through responsible behavior and academic achievement.

We believe that effective discipline is a collaborative effort between the school, students, parents, and the community. By working together, we can create a supportive framework that encourages students to make responsible choices and understand the consequences of their actions. This partnership is essential in helping our students develop into well-rounded individuals who are prepared for success in both their academic and personal lives.

I encourage you to review the Student Discipline Handbook carefully and discuss its contents with your students. Understanding the expectations and consequences outlined in this document will help ensure that our schools remain a place where respect, safety, and academic excellence are paramount.

Please keep this code booklet for reference throughout the school year. Should you have any questions concerning any information included in this document, please do not hesitate to talk with your school principal or contact the Office of Student Services.

Sincerely,

Dr. Bruce Borchers Superintendent

EXPECTATIONS

Each individual within the school community has rights and responsibilities related to enjoying the benefits of the learning environment. The expectations for each group are identified in this section.

Students are expected to:

• Attend school, be on time and not skip class.
• Take advantage of the opportunity to learn.
• Assume responsibility for personal growth and self-discipline.
• Take care of both personal and school property.
• Respect the rights and property of others.
• Work cooperatively with school personnel and other students.
• Know and follow school rules.
• Respect school staff and the reasonable exercises of authority by school staff.
• Maintain appropriate classroom conduct.
• Dress and groom in a manner that meets reasonable standards of health, cleanliness, modesty, and safety.

Teachers, Counselors, and Support Staff are expected to:

• Work collaboratively with each other, parents, and students to improve student behavior and to maintain a positive learning environment.
• Be knowledgeable of instructional techniques, which enhance and improve student behavior.
• Teach and model desired behaviors. Provide appropriate consequences and reinforce appropriate behavior.
• Confront any student misbehavior whenever observed in all school settings.
• Use interpersonal skills, which permits the de-escalation of student-staff conflict.
• Contact and involve parents in dealing with disciplinary and/or academic matters.
• Provide a flexible curriculum to meet individual needs.
• Maintain a safe and orderly school environment.
• Inform the community, students, and school staff of policies relating to pupil conduct.

Administrators are expected to:

• Protect the due process rights of teachers, students, and parents. Support other school personnel in the fulfillment of their disciplinary responsibilities.
• Contact and involve parents in dealing with disciplinary matters.
• Maintain a safe and orderly school environment.
• Inform the community, students, and school staff of policies relating to pupil conduct.

Parents are expected to:

• Ensure that the child attends school and is on time.
• Communicate with school personnel about their child and make themselves readily and easily accessible when the school needs to make contact.
• Realize the extent of responsibility for the behavior of their child.
• Prepare their child to assume responsibility for his/her own behavior.
• Foster positive attitudes in their child toward self, others, school, and community.
• Know and follow school regulations.

Rules and Expectations for Cross-Boundary/Tuition Students:

For a tuition or cross-boundary student to remain in their school of choice, the student must maintain satisfactory achievement, good attendance, and acceptable behavior. Each principal has the right to revoke the privilege after notice to the parent for help in addressing any problems. Specific guidelines have been established for revocation of cross boundary or tuition status. (See policy in section “Other School Information”)

School Conduct

Students are expected to exhibit appropriate behavior at all times. Appropriate behavior includes showing respect for staff members and other students, paying attention, contributing appropriately to discussions, using appropriate language, following teachers’ directions, refraining from making unnecessary and disruptive comments, etc.

Bus Conduct

Students are expected to follow the rules and regulations established by the Oak Ridge Schools’ Transportation Policies. All students will be responsible to:

• Board the bus in a calm and reasonably quiet manner.
• Act with courtesy toward the driver and fellow students.
• Go immediately to a seat, sit down, and remain there until time to disembark.
• Cooperate with the bus driver in providing any information needed to enforce the rules of safety.
• Depart from the bus in a quiet, calm, and cautious manner and cross the street in front of the bus while traffic is stopped.
• Observe safety rules and respect the rights of others while waiting for the bus.
• Act with courtesy and respect toward private and public property.
• Cooperate fully with parents, teachers, and principals in obeying the rules established for the safety of all students.
• Maintain personal possessions at all times.
• Refrain from holding a seat for another person.
• Remain behind the driver’s seat until the bus has come to a complete stop.
• Refrain from opening and closing windows without permission from the driver or other adult supervisor.
• Refrain from placing any body part or personal belonging outside the window
• Refrain from loud talking, screaming, and other boisterous behavior, which could distract the driver.
• Observe all related school rules.

Parents of kindergarten students must be visible at the student’s bus stop.

The school bus is considered an extension of the school. Consequences for bus misbehavior will be the same as those employed for school rule violations within the school setting.

Student Behavior at School Events/Activities

School sponsored field trips, athletic events, or other activities are considered an integral part of the school program. All school rules and student behavior codes apply to student participants and student spectators at these events.

Visitor Code of Conduct

Except on occasions such as school programs, athletic events, open house, and similar public events, all visitors will report to the school office when entering the school and will sign-in. Persons who come onto school property shall be under the jurisdiction of the site administrator/designee.

Individuals who come onto school property or who contact employees on school or district business are expected to behave accordingly. The Visitor Code of Conduct is as follows:

Parents, community members, and any other visitors to school property or during school programs/activities MUST NOT:

1. Act in a threatening manner toward another or others.
2. Injure or threaten another or others.
3. Damage school property, or the personal property of another or others.
4. Disrupt classes, school programs or other school activities in any way.
5. Communicate with another or others in an abusive, harassing, or threatening manner.
6. Audio or video record where there is an expectation of privacy (i.e., classroom instruction, locker rooms, etc.).
7. Disrupt school transportation or confront transportation staff on a bus/vehicle, a road, a neighborhood, etc.
8. Distribute or wear materials which are vulgar, obscene, advocate illegal action, promote drugs, or are disruptive.
9. Harass or discriminate against another or others based on protected class status (e.g., race, color, religion, etc.).
10. Enter school property, or certain areas of school property, when otherwise restricted from entering the same.
11. Fail to promptly leave school property upon being directed to do so by school administration or law enforcement.
12. Possess, consume, sell, distribute or exchange alcoholic beverages, tobacco, vaping products, or illegal drugs.
13. Possess or use firearms or dangerous weapons, except in the case of law enforcement officers.
14. Gamble or encourage another or others to gamble.
15. Violate any applicable federal or state statute, local ordinance, or board policy.

If you have questions about this Code of Conduct, please refer to Board Policy 1.501, (Visitors to the School), and/or contact central office using the following telephone number: 865-425-9002.

Range of Authority to Discipline

Behavior problems are dealt with using procedures and consequences that vary based on the age of the student, severity of the offense, and the frequency of the offenses. Disciplinary procedures are not limited to those occurring on school campuses, but include all school-related activities and even non-school-related activities if the student’s behavior is directly linked to school events. The Tennessee State Law recognizes the right of school personnel to act in the place of the parent in situations where school personnel are responsible for the students.

Rights of the student

The principal or principal’s designee at the building level administers disciplinary actions. Students referred for a disciplinary violation are entitled to explain their side of the story and to place their conduct in what they consider to be the proper context. This is done in an informal administrative conference prior to administering any disciplinary action (except in an emergency situation).

Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA 49-6-3401) gives a school principal or his designee the authority to suspend a student for various rule violations. When out of school suspension is used the principal/designee will generally meet with the parent to develop a plan of improvement upon re-entry of the student. A written plan of improvement will be developed if the suspension exceeds five school days. Students and parents may from time to time disagree with the action taken by the principal. The procedure to be followed when such a disagreement occurs is outlined in the “Rights to Reviews and Appeals” section of this handbook.

Oak Ridge Board of Education Expectations

The Oak Ridge Schools Board of Education has established this handbook as policy and expects that parents and school staff will work in close cooperation to ensure student success, both academically and behaviorally. In order to achieve this goal, it is anticipated that staff and parents will communicate routinely, and definitely, whenever there is a concern regarding student progress. By establishing and maintaining close contact, parents and teachers can prevent or minimize discipline problems as well as maximize student growth.

Discipline Hearing Authority (DHA)

The Discipline Hearing Authority is a Board of Education designee. This means that the Oak Ridge Board of Education has established the Discipline Hearing Authority to hear and rule on appeals related to student suspensions.

The DHA is made up of Oak Ridge School staff who is not involved in the situation that resulted in the student being suspended from school. Members of the DHA for any specific student’s hearing would not be under the authority of the principal that suspended the student and are therefore able to be impartial in their judgment of the student’s behavior.

A DHA hearing is not open to public audiences like a Board of Education hearing would be. This gives the student and family more confidentiality and privacy in presenting their appeal. A parent or student may appeal (in writing and within five working days or receipt of a written DHA decision) the decision of the DHA to the Superintendent. However, upon review of the written record of the DHA hearing, the Superintendent may decide to simply affirm the DHA decision; or may lessen the discipline administered; or may decide to hear the case in an open Board of Education meeting. Appeals to the Board will be open meetings unless the parent/guardian has officially requested a closed meeting. In cases where the state law or Board of Education Policy requires “zero tolerance” for substantiated rule violations, the Superintendent of Schools has final authority over consequences to be administered on a case-by-case basis.

Under the Tennessee Compulsory School Attendance Law, all children between the ages of six and seventeen, both inclusive, are legally required to attend school (TCA 49- 6-3001). Students less than 6 years of age who have been enrolled in school for 6 weeks or more are subject to the same attendance regulations as other students of compulsory school age (TCA 49-6-3007). Students entering first grade are required to have completed a State-approved kindergarten program (TCA 49-6-201). Students not in school on any day for at least half the time for which they are enrolled will be considered absent for state reporting. This includes students not in school half the abbreviated day. Per 49-6-3007, after a child has five (5) unexcused absences without adequate excuse, their parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive a notice stating that the child’s attendance at school is required. Upon the next unexcused absence, a referral may be made to the Anderson County Juvenile Court and a Truancy petition may be issued. If after notice to the juvenile court is given, either the child or parent(s)/guardian(s) do not immediately conform to school attendance guidelines, additional referrals shall be made to either law enforcement, the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services, and/or the juvenile court where appropriate. The legal consequences issued by the Court for unlawful absences can result in criminal charges for educational neglect which is a Class C misdemeanor per TCA-49-6-3009 (amended). Parents can also be fined up to $50.00 per day, given community service or be ordered to serve time in the county jail.

In collaboration with the Anderson County District Attorney’s Office and the Oak Ridge Police Department, a truancy review support system is in place. Parents will be notified via phone calls, school personnel contact and US mail that their child has the potential of being petitioned to court for truancy and the parent could be prosecuted for educational neglect. Included in the appendices are the steps for reporting truancy by school personnel and the steps in place across the district.

Students are expected to:

• Be present and on time for all assigned classes (skipping classes will count as unexcused absences).
• Present documentation of parental permission before checking out of school. Class absences as a result of early checkout are considered the same as any other absence and are subject to all attendance policy rules.
• Provide a written excuse for each absence from his/her parent or custodial parent giving the date and reason for the absence(s).
• Make up assigned work missed during excused absences.

Excused Absences

Students must be in school unless the absence has been excused for one of the reasons listed below. It is the responsibility of each student’s parent/guardian to explain the student’s absence to the school in a manner satisfactory to the principal. Absences may be classified as either excused or unexcused as determined by the principal or his/her designee. Absences will only be excused for the following reasons:

1. Personal illness
   • Only seven days, whether consecutive or not can be excused by a parent note;
   • After a child has had (7) days, not necessarily consecutive, of illness related absences excused by a parent note, any future illness related absence must have a doctor’s note stating that the absence is medically necessary.
   • All parent and doctor notes must be turned into the school within three school days of the child returning to school.
2. Death in the family
3. Religious observations
4. Extreme weather conditions
5. Court appearance or legal mandates
6. Family emergency
7. School sponsored events
8. School related events

Any absence that does not fit any of the criteria listed above will be considered unexcused.

A student is considered legally truant following five (5) cumulative unexcused absences (TCA 49-6-3007).

The Board of Education may excuse children from compulsory attendance in accordance with guidelines developed by the State Board of Education (TCA 49-6- 3005). Students may be subject to withdrawal from Oak Ridge Schools after ten consecutive unexcused absences or fifteen unexcused absences during a semester (TCA 49-6-3017[c]). In cases of IEP students, the IEP team will convene to discuss appropriate options available.

Truancy

Students who are absent five (5) days without adequate excuse will be reported to the superintendent of schools or his/her designee who will, in turn, provide written notice to the parents/guardians of the student’s absence. Skipping classes is also a form of truancy and will fall under the same consequences for unexcused absences.

The legal consequences issued by the Court for unlawful absences can range from zero to the child being placed in the custody of the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services with the parents paying child support to the State. The parents can also be fined up to $50.00 per day, given community service be ordered to serve time in the county jail or be criminally charged with a Class C misdemeanor for educational neglect.

Truancy Reporting Steps:

Step One – Parent/Guardian will receive an automated phone message informing them that their child has accumulated 3 unexcused absences.

Step Two – Once a student accumulates 5 unexcused absences, the following interventions will be implemented:

1. Parent/Guardian will receive an automated phone message.
2. Parent/Guardian will be mailed a letter regarding student attendance expectations from General David Clark, Anderson County District Attorney.
3. Parent/Guardian and the student will receive an invitation to meet with the school Truancy Intervention Team to complete an attendance contract.
4. Student attendance will be monitored the remainder of the school year.

Step Three – Once a student has accumulated 7 unexcused absences, the following interventions will take place:

1. School staff will contact parents/guardians to inform them that their child has accumulated 7 unexcused absences.
2. The Department of Student Services will send a written notice directing parents/guardians and the student to attend a Truancy Review and Support Meeting.
3. Parents/Guardians choosing to attend the Truancy Review and Support Meetings will have the opportunity to participate in a Diversion Program. Maintaining compliance with the terms of the Diversion will allow the parent to avoid having a truancy petition filed against their child as well as the possibility of an educational neglect charge against them.
4. Parent/Guardians electing not to attend the Truancy Review and Support Meeting risk the possibility of being referred for legal interventions.
5. The School Truancy Team will complete the Attendance Assessment to determine barriers and needed support to promote acceptable school attendance.

Step Four – Once a student has accumulated 10 unexcused absences, the following actions will take place:

1. The Executive Director of Student Services and the School Truancy Team will continue monitoring attendance.
2. If the student continues to accumulate unexcused absences, the School Truancy Intervention Team will complete the Truancy Referral Form (A) and recommend one of the listed interventions to the Director of Pupil Service and the Executive Director of School Leadership
   • Continue to provide student support and monitor attendance
   • File a truancy petition against the student
   • Charge the parent or guardian with educational neglect
3. The Director of Pupil Services will then complete the Truancy Referral Form (B) and determine which of the above interventions are most appropriate.

Step Five – If it is determined legal interventions are appropriate, the Director of Pupil Services will submit a completed Truancy Referral Packet to the School Resource Officer who will take the appropriate legal action for educational neglect. If a truancy petition is filed, the Director of Pupil Services will file with the Anderson County Juvenile Court.

Oak Ridge Schools in accordance with School Board policy 6.300 will make every effort to utilize trauma informed and restorative discipline practices to encourage positive student behavior. A Tiered system of behaviors has been adopted by this policy- see section titled Levels of Misbehavior for more information.

Certain behaviors will result in suspensions and or/expulsions. Students may be suspended short term (less than ten days), long term (ten days or more) or expelled (no less than one calendar year) from school for unacceptable behavior as outlined in this booklet. Unacceptable behavior is defined as behavior that is in violation of city or state laws and/or school rules.

Principals have the authority to suspend students from school attendance, including its sponsored activities, and/or from riding a school bus (T.C.A. 49-6-3401).

In addition, some school rule violations always require expulsion under state law (T.C.A 49-6-3401 and 49-6-4216).  These violations are referred to as “zero-tolerance violations and are:

• Possession of a firearm on school property/activity
• Possession/use/sale of drugs on school property/activity
• Battery on a staff member
• Making a threat to use a bomb, dynamite or any other deadly or destructive device, including chemical weapons, on school property or at a school sponsored event.
• Threats of mass violence
• Electronic threat to cause bodily injury or death to another student or school employee

Depending on the seriousness of the offense, the Board of Education has extended the discipline option of expulsion for a first offense to include:

• Alcohol possession/use or distribution on school property or at a school activity
• Alcohol or drug use prior to accessing school property/activity (under the influence)
• Battery on peers; other than mutual combat
• Use of any device as a weapon to intentionally harm another or threaten harm
• Possession of any items defined as weapons in this handbook

Students confirmed of committing the following actions will not be eligible to attend the Secret City Academy for in person instruction:

1. Possession of a firearm on school property/Activity.
2. Battery on a staff member.
3. Intentional or unprovoked assault or battery on a student.
4. Making a threat to use a bomb, dynamite, or any other deadly or destructive device, including chemical weapons, on school property or at a school sponsored event.
5. Possession of drugs with the intent to distribute or sale.
6. A student whose presence creates an unreasonable safety concern.

These students will have the option of participating in an on-line program until their suspension or expulsion has ended.

LEVELS OF MISBEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS

This section identifies levels of misbehavior, the disciplinary procedure typically used to address a specific category of misbehavior, and the discipline options available to a teacher and/or principal for the various types of misbehavior. The following levels, procedures, and options are designed to protect all members of the educational community in the exercise of their rights and duties. The district shall utilize trauma-informed discipline practices. (School Board Policy 6.300).

MISBEHAVIORS: Level I

Level I rule violations are minor misbehavior on the part of the student which impedes orderly classroom procedures or interferes with the orderly operation of the school, but which can usually be handled by an individual staff member.

Examples (not an exclusive listing):

Classroom disturbances; Classroom tardiness; Cheating and lying; Use of inappropriate language (non-directed, first offense, inadvertent); Non-defiant failure to do assignments or carry out directions; Teasing of a peer; possession of unauthorized personal communication devices and dress code violations.

Disciplinary Procedures Generally Followed:

• Immediate intervention by the staff member.
• Determine what offense was committed and its severity.
• Determine that the student understands the nature of the offense and has an opportunity to explain his/her behavior.
• Employ appropriate disciplinary options.
• Record of the offense and disciplinary action maintained by staff member.
• Confiscation of unauthorized electronic device.
• Refer to school counselor

Disciplinary Options:

Verbal reprimand; Restricting activities; Counseling; Withdrawal of privileges; Issuance of demerits which might affect citizenship or deportment grades; Strict supervised study; Detention; and/or In-school suspension.

MISBEHAVIORS: Level II

Misbehavior where frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt the learning climate of the school. Included in this level are misbehaviors, which do not represent a direct threat to the health and safety of others, but where educational consequences are serious enough to require corrective action on the part of administrative personnel.

Examples (not an exclusive listing):

Continuation of unmodified Level I behaviors; Tardy to school; Using forged notes or excuses; Disruptive classroom behavior; Teasing with intent to embarrass; stealing, possession of unauthorized personal communication devices, gambling, skipping class, and inappropriate access of Internet sites, e- mail services or secured files.

Disciplinary Procedures:

• Immediate intervention by staff members.
• Student is referred to principal for appropriate disciplinary action.
• Principal/designee meets with student and teacher.
• Principal/designee hears report/referral made by teacher, permits student the opportunity of explaining his/her behavior, denying it or explaining any mitigating circumstances.
• Principal/designee takes appropriate disciplinary action and notifies teacher of action.
• Record of offense and disciplinary action maintained by principal.
• Parent notified of situation and the action taken.

Disciplinary Options Available to staff:

Modified probation; Social probation; Peer counseling; Referral to outside agency; In-school suspension; Transfer from class; Detention; Suspension from school-sponsored activities or from riding school bus; Restricting school-related honors/privileges student is otherwise due; Truancy Review Board, Truancy Court; short term placement (not to exceed 9 days) in our restorative program (Reflect, Restore, and Repair) located at Secret City Academy and/or Out-of-school suspension not to exceed ten (10) days.

MISBEHAVIORS: Level III

Acts directly against persons or property but where consequences do not seriously endanger the health or safety of others in the school.

Examples (not an exclusive listing):

Continuation of unmodified Level I and II behaviors; Fighting (simple); Vandalism (minor); Stealing; Cheating; Computer misuse; Threats to others; General allegation of a peer; and Directed profanity at a staff member (automatic five (5) day suspension first offense)

Disciplinary Procedures:

• Immediate intervention by staff members.
• Law enforcement may be contacted if deemed appropriate and possible arrest may result
• Student is referred to principal for appropriate disciplinary action.
• Principal/Designee meets with student and staff member.
• Principal/Designee hears report/referral and permits student the opportunity of explaining conduct.

Principal/Designee takes appropriate disciplinary action:

• If student’s program is to be changed, adequate notice shall be given to the student and his/her parents of the charges against him, his/her right to appear at a hearing and to be represented by a person of his/her choosing
• A change in school placement may be appealed.
• Record of offense and disciplinary action maintained by principal.
• Parent notified of situation and the action taken.

Disciplinary Options:

In-school suspension; Detention; Restitution for lost, damaged or stolen property; Out- of-school suspension not to exceed ten (10) days; Mandatory tutorial sessions outside the regular school day; Social adjustment/skill building classes; short term placement (not to exceed 9 days) in our restorative program (Reflect, Restore, and Repair) located at Secret City Academy, Transfer from class; and/or Long-term out-of-school suspension for more than 10 days;

MISBEHAVIORS: Level IV

Acts which result in violence to another’s person or property, or which pose a threat to the safety of others in the school, or substantially disrupt the learning environment. These acts are so serious that they usually require administrative actions, which result in the immediate removal of the student from the school, the intervention of law enforcement authorities and/or long-term removal from the school.

Examples (not an exclusive listing):

Unmodified Level III behaviors; Felony charges of criminal activity within the community which, because of the nature of the charge, has a high probability of disrupting the learning environment; Threat of mass violence on school property or at a school-related activity*, Extortion; Bomb Threat; Possession/use/transfer of dangerous weapons*; possession/use/or transfer of weapons or look-alike weapons on or around a school campus or a school activity; participation in any activity within the community that provokes campus unrest; Assault; Battery; Vandalism; Theft/possession/sale of stolen property; Arson; Possession of unauthorized substances (drugs and other controlled substances)*; Use/transfer of unauthorized substances; Sexual allegation/Ethnic allegation/Tormenting of a peer/Hazing; Serious breach of conduct; Trespassing; Making false accusations about a staff member; Electronic threat to cause bodily injury or death to another student of school employee*

Disciplinary Procedures:

• Immediate action by staff prudent to a given situation (School Resource Officer [SRO] may be involved at this point).
• Principal confers with appropriate staff members and with the student.
• Principal hears staff report/referral and permits student opportunity of explaining conduct. Parents are notified.
• Law enforcement officials are contacted and possible arrest may result (unless SRO is already involved).
• Incident is reported and recommendations made to the Superintendent of Schools.
• Complete and accurate reports are submitted to the Superintendent of Schools.
• Student is given hearing before Discipline Hearing Authority.

Disciplinary Options:

Out-of-school suspension; Expulsion; Alternative school; Other Discipline Hearing Authority or Board action which results in appropriate placement; Required to attend a related skill building program and/or Suspension for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year subject to modification by the Superintendent of Schools on a case-by- case basis.

*Zero Tolerance Offenses

Zero Tolerance (T.C.A. 49-6-3401)

Some school rule violations always require expulsion under state law. These violations are referred to as “zero tolerance” violations and are:

• Bringing to school or being in unauthorized possession of a firearm on school property;
• Unlawful possession of any drug, including any controlled substance, controlled substance analogue, or legend drug on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event;
• Aggravated assault;
• Assault that results in bodily injury upon any teacher, principal, administrator, any other employee of the school, or school resource officer; or
• Valid threats of mass violence on school property or at a school-related activity as determined by a threat assessment team.

Depending on the seriousness of the offense, the Board of Education has extended the discipline option of expulsion for a first offense to include:

• Alcohol possession/use or distribution on school property or at a school activity
• Alcohol or drug use prior to accessing school property/activity (under the influence)
• Battery on peers; other than mutual combat
• Use of any device as a weapon to intentionally harm another or threaten harm
• Possession of any items defined as weapons in this handbook

Bullying

It is the policy of the Oak Ridge Schools to maintain a learning environment that is free from allegation and bullying due to a student’s race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or disability. The Oak Ridge Schools prohibits all forms of bullying, including cyber bullying and harassment (Board Policy 6.204)

It is a violation of state and district policy for any student, teacher, administrator or other school personnel of this district to bully or tolerate bullying as defined by this policy (TCA 49-6-4503). Bullying is defined as any act that substantially interferes with a student’s educational benefits, opportunities or performance, takes place on school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school provided transportation, or at any official school bus stop, and that has the effect of (1) physically harming a student or damaging a student’s property; (2) knowingly placing a student in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student’s property; or (3) creating a hostile educational environment. Behavior of this nature may result in the following but is not limited to, disciplinary actions per school board policy:

• Two days in school suspension and parent conference held
• Two days out of school suspension and parent conference held
• Five days out of school suspension
• Ten days out of school suspension and referral to Disciplinary Hearing Authority

Any continued bullying behavior will be subject to expulsion.

The school system will act to promptly investigate all complaints, formal or informal, verbal or written for alleged incidents of bullying. Bullying/Allegation forms are available in each school office and is also located in the back of the handbook. The form should be completed by the student and given to the school administrator or building designee. The school will follow up by conducting an investigation and submitting a copy of the final disposition to the Executive Director of Student Services.

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is the use of cell phones, instant messaging, e-mail, chat rooms, social networking sites or other type of digital technology to harass, threaten, discriminate or intimidate others. If a student receives a text, email, blog, comment, social network post or message via other Web 2.0 tool that makes them feel uncomfortable or is not respectable, they must follow the steps mentioned above to report the incident to the school administrator or building designee and must not respond to comment.

Harassment

No student shall commit any act that injures, degrades, threatens or disgraces others. Students perceiving harassment must report each occurrence to a teacher, a school counselor or administrator. Forms for reporting allegations of harassment are available in the school office and should be completed by the student, parent or guardian and given to the school administrator or designee. This is a formal procedure and a record of all grievances must be maintained by the Department of Student Services or Human Resources (whichever department is appropriate).

Students, parents, and staff are expected to report occurrences of perceived discrimination or harassment to a school counselor or building administrator. Harassment of another student will not be tolerated. Behavior of this nature may result in the following but is not limited to, the disciplinary actions per school board policy:

• Two days in school suspension and parent conference held
• Two days out of school suspension and parent conference held
• Five days out of school suspension
• Ten days out of school suspension and referral to Disciplinary Hearing Authority

Any continued harassment behavior will be subject to expulsion.

Sexual Harassment

In order to maintain a safe, civil, and supportive learning environment, all forms of sexual harassment and discrimination on the basis of sex are prohibited. (Board Policy 6.3041). Any individual who has knowledge of behaviors that may constitute a violation of this policy shall immediately report such information to the Title IX Coordinator, however, nothing in this policy requires a complainant to either report or file a formal complaint within a certain timeframe. If the complaint involves the Title IX Coordinator, the complaint shall be filed with the Director of Schools.

Hazing

Hazing by any person or organization sanctioned by the Oak Ridge School System is prohibited by the board of education pursuant to T.C.A. 49-2-120.

“Hazing” means any intentional or reckless act in Tennessee, on or off Oak Ridge Schools property, by one (1) student acting alone or with others which is directed against any other student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student, or which induces or coerces a student to endanger such student’s mental or physical health or safety. “Hazing” does not include customary athletic events or similar contests or competitions and is limited to those actions taken and situations created in connection with initiation into or affiliation with any organization (TCA 49-2- 120).

Threats of Violence

Per TCA 49-6-3401, a threat is defined as: school threat (threat of harm or destruction); any threat (verbal, written or electronic) by a person to use other substances or devices for the purpose of exploding, burning, causing damage to a school building or school property or to harm students or staff; intentionally making a false report of potential harm from a bomb, dynamite, explosive or arson-causing device; gang-related or hate- related.

Threats will be investigated by school staff and may result in possible disciplinary actions.

Violence

Violence or threatened violence against anyone attending or assigned to a public school is against the law (TCA 49-6-3401). Mutual combat between students will generally be disciplined as follows:

• 1st Offense – Up to 5 days out-of-school suspension.
• 2nd Offense – Up to 10 days out-of-school suspension and enrollment in anger management class at parent’s expense.
• 3rd Offense – Recommendation for expulsion.

Students encouraging fighting will be subject to the same discipline as combatants.

Acts of battery, physical intimidation and/or aggression may be reported to law enforcement. Battery is sufficient reason for expulsion on a first offense. Fighting involving more than two students will be sufficient reason for expulsion on the first offense. Retaliation against students cooperating with school administration is subject to expulsion on a first offense. Physical aggression (contact) towards a staff member will result in an expulsion on the first offense.

Given the events that have occurred throughout the United States involving students using firearms on their peers, the school staffs have been directed to investigate any student making “death threat” statements to determine the seriousness of the threat. The student may be suspended or excluded from school while the potential for “real harm” is evaluated. In some cases, student will need to undergo a mental health assessment at parent expense.

Weapons

The possession of legally defined weapons or any instrument used as a weapon (including look-a-likes), whether on a person or in his/her locker or vehicle, is prohibited. It is a violation of state law for any person to possess or carry, whether openly or concealed a weapon on school property. Weapons are defined as firearms, knives exceeding 2.5 inches, explosives, blackjacks, knuckles, clubs, BB guns, pellet guns, a sharp pointed or edged instrument, or any other device capable of harming an individual. A weapon (or an item perceived as a weapon by school authorities) will be given to the police. All students using or possessing a weapon will be reported to the police. Any item deemed a weapon per consultation with the police will result in the appropriate disciplinary consequence (i.e. pepper gas, mace, taser, electrical weapons, possession or use of fireworks or incendiary devices).

A violation of this law is a felony with a maximum penalty of six (6) years’ imprisonment and a fine not to exceed three thousand dollars ($3,000). (TCA 39-17-1302 and, TCA 39-17-1309) Individuals violating this law are subject to prosecution.

Carrying weapons on school property

Possession of a “weapon-knife” (butterfly, switchblade, hunting knife, large pocket knife, etc.) concealed or openly with the intent to go armed is a violation of 39-17-1309 (2) will be subject to expulsion. Violation of this subsection is a Class E felony. Use of any knife in relationship to a threat of harm or actual injury will result in expulsion. Students who bring or use a firearm in school buildings, on school grounds or at school- sponsored events will be expelled for a period of not less than one year (TCA 49-6- 3401) (U.S.C. Code 18-921).

A principal or teacher who has reasonable suspicion to believe a student is in possession of a weapon at school in violation of TCA 39-17-1307, 39-17-1309, 49-6- 4209 or of title 39, chapter 17; part 4 is required to report such suspicion to the appropriate authorities.

The policy of the Oak Ridge Schools is to suspend students for no less than 2 days for possession of a simple pocket-knife.

Student with knowledge of a Zero Tolerance Weapon Offense at school

Any student with direct knowledge of a weapon on school property that fails to immediately report this safety concern to school staff, or an SRO will be suspended out of school for a period of not less than 10 days and possible expulsion.

According to the United States Department of Education (DOE), “the use of alcohol… and other illicit drugs undermines students’ ability to achieve academically, is associated with other harmful behaviors, and is incompatible with a school climate of respect, safety, and support for learning.” In fact, according to the DOE, “students who are disengaged in school are more likely to be users.” “Alcohol is by far the substance most abused by students… [and,] among illicit drugs, marijuana is by far the most commonly used by young people.”

Similarly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) details that “15% of high school students reported having ever used select illicit or injection drugs.” Further, the CDC notes that such “drug use is associated with sexual risk behavior, experience of violence, and mental health and suicide risks.” And the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirms that the adverse effects of drugs can include over the counter products such as delta-8 THC, as national poison control centers received thousands of exposure cases of delta-8 THC products from early 2021 through early 2022 (41% of which involved pediatric patients less than 18 years of age).

The Board recognizes the above-issues and concerns, and, in turn, wishes to apply the following disciplinary procedures in situations involving and/or in any way relating to students with drugs and/or alcohol:

Disciplinary Procedures

• The principal confers with appropriate staff members and with the student.
• The principal hears the accusations and allows the student the opportunity to explain his/her conduct.
• The parent(s)/guardian(s) are notified.
• Law enforcement officials are contacted.
• The incident is reported, and recommendations are made to the Director of Schools.
• If the student’s placement is to be changed, adequate notice of the charges shall be given to the student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) and his/her right to appear at a hearing.

Disciplinary Actions are outlined according to substance below.

Depending on the seriousness of the offense, the Board of Education has extended the discipline option of expulsion for a first offense to include:

• Alcohol possession/use or distribution on school property or at a school activity
• Alcohol or drug use prior to accessing school property/activity (under the influence)

Alcohol Violations

Examples: Use, possession, sale, distribution, and/or being under the influence of alcohol.

• 1st Offense (within a school year): Assignment to an alternative school or program for a 90-school day placement. After completing 90 school days in an alternative school or program, the student and/or his/her guardians may request, through the Director of Schools, re-admittance to a regular school program. The Director may reduce the alternative placement period at his/her discretion, or upon a report from alternative school/program personnel that the student has consistently behaved well and made consistent academic efforts.
• 2nd Offense (within a school year) – Expulsion for a calendar year.

Non-Narcotic Violations (CBD, HHC, Delta-8, Hemp-derived THC etc.)

Use, possession, sale, or distribution of drug paraphernalia, including, but not limited to, vape pens/products used with or associated with evidence of CBD, HHC or Delta 8 products; OR Use and/or being under the influence of products containing or marketed as containing any level THC and/or CBD (for controlled substance possession, see LEVEL II below).

• 1st Offense (within a school year): Assignment to an alternative school or program for a 90-school day placement. After completing 90 school days in an alternative school or program, the student and/or his/her guardians may request, through the Director of Schools, re-admittance to a regular school program. The Director may reduce the alternative placement period at his/her discretion, or upon a report from alternative school/program personnel that the student has consistently behaved well and made consistent academic efforts.
• 2nd Offense (within a school year) – Expulsion for a calendar year.

 

 

 

Narcotic Violations (Delta-9 THC, Controlled Substances, Legend Drugs) – Zero Tolerance

Example: Unlawful possession of any controlled substance, Delta-9 THC, controlled substance analogue, or legend drug, which could include the sale and/or distribution of such a drug on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event.

• Pursuant to Tennessee law (Tenn. Code Ann. Section 49-6-4002), committing such an offense shall result in the student being expelled from the regular school program for at least one (1) calendar year, unless modified by the Director of Schools. Modification of the length of time shall be granted on a case-by-case basis. Students that commit zero tolerance offenses may also be assigned to an alternative school or program at the discretion of the Director of Schools.

Drug Paraphernalia

It is unlawful to use, possess with the intent to use or to promote the sale of drug paraphernalia (T.C.A. 39-17-425). Such possession or use may be treated similarly to the possession or use of drugs at school.

Drug Testing

Principals are authorized to order drug tests for individual students when there is reasonable cause. Prior to performing a drug test on a student based on reasonable suspicion, certain conditions must be met. These conditions are listed in 6.3071 of the Oak Ridge School Board policy and listed on the last 3 pages in this handbook.

Students involved in any voluntary extracurricular activities shall be subject to random drug tests. Parents and students will be informed of this policy prior to participation and shall sign a contract to the drug testing and a release of information as a condition of participation.

Extracurricular activity is defined as voluntary participation in activities not falling within the scope of regular curriculum and carrying no academic credit. This includes participating in athletic programs, cheerleading, bands, clubs, student leadership positions etc.

Tobacco and Vaping

Students who are vaping or found to be in possession of tobacco or tobacco products on school property including smokeless tobacco, and electronic cigarettes, will be assigned the following consequences:

• First Offense – Student will be assigned two days of in school suspension and be assigned Coping Conversations classes.
• Second Offense –Student will be assigned 4 days of in school suspension, receive a tobacco citation and be required to attend a tobacco/vaping education class.
• Third Offense – Student will be assigned 5 days of in school suspension and receive a tobacco citation.
• Fourth Offense –Student will be assigned 3-5 out of school suspension and receive a tobacco citation.

Vaping

Tobacco

See previous section listing disciplinary action for Tobacco Products

Non-Tobacco Vape

Refer to Non-Narcotic (CBD, HHC, Delta-8) or Narcotic (Delta-9 THC, Controlled Substances) Substance violations, depending on the content of the vape.

This section attempts to define terms commonly used by school staff. It is also believed that this section will further explain potential consequences or actions that may occur for specific types of rule violations. These terms are arranged in alphabetical order.

Abusive Language

Use of vulgar, profane, or threatening language on any school property including buses or at any school event is prohibited. See School Conduct for consequences.

Appeal

A grievance procedure for administrative decisions.

Debt to School

Any student who incurs a school debt may be denied a grade card, diploma, and certificate of progress or transcript until restitution is made (TCA 49-1-302(a)(12)).

However, a child with a disability shall not be denied a copy of his/her educational record, including but not limited to grade cards, diplomas, transcripts, IEPs, progress reports, etc. notwithstanding the student’s outstanding school debts.

Discrimination

In compliance with equal opportunity legislation, the Oak Ridge Schools does not discriminate nor deny any student’s participation in any program or activity on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. Students or parents believing specific acts of discrimination are occurring should contact the school principal for the grievance procedures. This is a formal procedure and a record of all grievances must be maintained by the Department of Pupil Services for all students or Human Resources for all employees. Students, parents, and staff are expected to report occurrences of perceived discrimination or harassment to a school counselor or building administrator, or Oak Ridge School staff.

Dress Code

The Board of Education believes that appropriate dress and grooming contribute to a productive learning environment. The Board expects students to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to wear suitable clothing. Students are asked to wear simple, comfortable clothing that is clean and neat. Shoes should be worn at all times. Generally speaking, students are not to wear clothing which compromises safety or modesty; nor clothing which is disruptive to the educational process. Students are prohibited from wearing:

1. Clothing or accessories which by reasonable judgment is considered unsafe, dangerous or a health hazard (examples include, but are not limited to: wallet chains, spiked collars, necklaces or rings with spikes or sharp edges, oversized belt buckles, picks and combs)
2. Clothing or accessories which contain or suggest obscene symbols, signs, slogans or words degrading any gender, cultural, religious or ethnic values.
3. Clothing or accessories which contain or suggest language or symbols oriented toward violence, vandalism, sex, drugs, alcohol or tobacco.
4. Pajamas or clothing resembling sleepwear. This also includes house shoes.
5. Apparel
   • Shirts, shorts, jeans or pants with holes, skirts and dresses that compromise modesty or are disruptive to the learning environment.
   • The following attire is not permitted: bare midriffs; halter or tube tops; short shorts; tight, see through, or revealing clothing; or clothing which allows underwear to be exposed, such as sagging pants, spaghetti strap tops, tank tops, sports bras, and muscle shirts.
   • A belt is mandatory if pants or shorts will not stay at the waist without one.
   • Hats, head coverings, bandanas, and sunglasses are not to be worn inside the school building unless for religious purposes.
6. Any articles which can be related to gang activity such as: items with gang names; gang initials; or individual gang member monikers; gang related jewelry; gang related tattoos; or self-inflicted scars. (TCA 49-6- 4215)
7. Any manner of grooming, which by its color, arrangement, trademark, or any other attribute that is gang related. This may include such items as shoelaces, belt buckles, hats or tattoos.
8. All students must wear shoes. It is strongly suggested that students wear shoes which either enclose the foot or are secured with heel straps. Flip flops are not allowed in grades PreK-4.
9. Heavy coats must be removed upon arrival at school, be placed in lockers and left there until the student leaves the building. (At campuses that have multiple buildings that require outside travel between classes, the principal may exercise discretion.)

The school building administrator may make exceptions to dress requirements to accommodate the special needs of classes (examples include but are not limited to: science labs, welding, cooking labs) and/or certain sports/activities.

All students are expected to comply with the general dress code policy of the Oak Ridge School Board. Students who fail to comply with the Dress Code Policy shall be advised of the policy and offered the opportunity to take corrective action. The School shall attempt to contact the student’s parents. Students who repeatedly fail to dress in accordance with the Dress Code Policy may be subject to disciplinary actions as set forth in the Oak Ridge Schools Discipline Code. The Administration reserves the right to judge what is appropriate or not.

Driver’s License

Any student between the ages of 15 and 18 making application for a driver’s permit or license must be enrolled in school or meet other special requirements of the law. To obtain a driver’s license or permit a student must have thirty (30) consecutive days of attendance without unexcused absences.

To maintain a driver’s license, students must be enrolled in school. According to TCA 55-10-701, students between the ages of 13 and 18 found guilty (in juvenile or adult court) of using alcohol or controlled substances shall be denied a Tennessee driver’s license.

When a student, under the age of 18, drops out of school, his/her name will also be forwarded to the Department of Safety resulting in the loss of the license. Withdrawal from school is defined as 10 consecutive days of unexcused absences, or 15 days of unexcused absences within a single semester, or notification of withdrawal. (Public Chapter No. 763 and TCA 49-6-3017)

Extortion

It is against the law for anyone to threaten, harm, or restrict the freedom or action of another person in order to obtain property or services of that person (TCA-39-14-112). This behavior is subject to suspension on the first offense.

Felony Charge

Any student charged with a felony for off-campus criminal behavior, whose presence in school poses a danger to persons or property or disrupts the educational process, is subject to suspension (TCA 49-6-3401).

Fireworks

The possession, sale or use of any fireworks on school grounds is in violation of the law (TCA 68-104-112). The discharge of fireworks in or around the school setting may result in suspension.

Gambling

It is against the law to knowingly engage in gambling (TCA 39-17-502) or games of chance for money and/or other articles of value.

Homework and Class Assignments

Students are expected to complete class assignments and those who fail to do so may be expected to attend help sessions, if available. Students failing at grading periods, who are not routinely accessing help sessions, will be subject to mandatory assignment to tutoring sessions. Failure to attend mandatory tutoring sessions will be subject to discipline up to and including suspension.

Homebound

Homebound services may be available for students who meet the criteria listed below:

1. Short term illness preventing attendance to school
2. Documentation from a licensed, treating medical physician supporting the need for the homebound service.
3. Students must remain in attendance at their school until the information listed above has been received and approved. Parents will be notified of the status of the Homebound application by the Health Services Coordinator/Pupil Services.

Profanity (Directed at Staff Member)

Students who use profane, vulgar, abusive language or display other forms of flagrant disrespect toward staff members will generally be disciplined as follows:

• 1st Offense – Up to 5 days out-of-school suspension.
• 2nd Offense – Up to 10 days out-of-school suspension.
• 3rd Offense – Long-term suspension (beyond 10 days).

Depending on the severity of the behavior, a principal may invoke any of the above consequences as well as other disciplinary measures on the first offense.

Search

When individual circumstances dictate, a principal may order a search of a student, his/her possessions, book bags, containers, packages, locker or vehicle located on school property (TCA 49-6-4204). Students are responsible for items found stored in their assigned locker. Students shall not share a school locker and should ensure the locker is secure/locked at all times. Items found in a locker will be considered the property of the individual student assigned the locker. Items found in the student’s possession or in his/her belongings will be considered the property of the individual student.

Theft (Robbery)

It is unlawful for anyone to take property from another person by force, fear or without that person’s consent (TCA 39-13-401, and TCA 39-14-103). Any student found guilty of theft may be suspended from school and in certain instances may be considered for either long-term suspension or expulsion. Any student who takes school property may also be denied a report card, diploma, certificate of progress, transcript, or schedule until restitution is made (TCA 49-1-302-15).

When students find lost or misplaced property they are required to promptly present such property to school authorities. Students found in possession of others’ lost or misplaced property will be required to provide convincing evidence that such property was not stolen.

Trespassing and Loitering

It is illegal to be on any public school property during the day or night without lawful authority or after having been asked to leave the premises by school personnel (TCA 49-6-2008).

Vandalism and/or Destruction of Property

In cases of willful or malicious damage to a person’s or the school’s property, the policy of the Oak Ridge Schools will be to seek full restitution from those persons responsible for such acts. Where necessary, the Superintendent of Schools or his designee, with the approval of the Chairman of the Board of Education, will institute civil court action to recover damages and may also refer the matter to law enforcement. In Tennessee, parents may be held liable for damages committed by their children until eighteen (18) years of age (BEP Sec. III-17 and 20).

Asbestos Management Plans

Parent(s)/guardian(s), upon request, shall be given the opportunity to review the Asbestos Management Plan.  The Management Plan, which includes previous asbestos abatement projects, six months surveillance reports, the location and condition of the remaining asbestos containing materials in our buildings, as well as the response action chosen for each, is available for your review at the following location:

Mr. Allen Thacker, Asbestos Coordinator

Oak Ridge Schools

Maintenance Department

100 Woodbury Lane

Oak Ridge, TN 37830

865-425-3171

This written annual notification is required by AHERA regulations.

Child Nutrition Program

In the operation of the child nutrition program, no student will be discriminated against because of race, sex, color, national origin, age, or disability. A student enrolled in the District may be eligible for free or reduced-price meals and/or free milk based on the following criteria:

• All children in households receiving benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Families First can get free meals regardless of your income.
• Foster children that are under the legal responsibility of a foster care agency or court are eligible for free meals.
• Children participating in their school’s Head Start program are eligible for free meals.
• If your household’s income is within the limits on the Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines chart below.

More details regarding eligibility can be found at www.ortn.edu/district/food-services

Students identified as foster care, homeless, migrant, or runaway are categorically eligible for free meals and free milk.

We encourage every family to complete an application to apply for Free or reduced priced lunch. Applications are provided to all students digitally at the beginning of the school year and are available throughout the year at your school’s front office or online through ParentSquare.

An application for free or reduced-price meals cannot be approved unless it contains complete information. All information provided on the application may be verified at any time during the school year.

For more information as to the free or reduced-price meals or for questions as to the appeal process due to an application denial, contact:

Marcia Wade

Coordinated School Health Coordinator

mkwade@ortn.edu – (865) 425-9028

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (20 USC 1232g)

As authorized by the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the Oak Ridge Schools reserves the right to disclose information without parental consent about students to school officials with legitimate educational interests, including School Resource Officers.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school system receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal [or appropriate school official] a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. Parents may request a copy of records for a fee of 10 cents per page.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes is inaccurate or misleading.
   Parents or eligible students may ask the Oak Ridge Schools to amend their record. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.
   If the school system decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school system will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent or not to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorized disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to the school officials with legitimate educational interests.
4. A school official is a person employed by the school system as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the school system has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, Food Services, medical consultant, transportation or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
5. Upon request, the Oak Ridge Schools will disclose education records without parental consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
6. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school system to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
   Family Policy Compliance Office
   U.S. Department of Education 600 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-4605

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Notice of Directory Information

 

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Oak Ridge Schools, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. However, the school may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow Oak Ridge Schools to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include:

• A playbill, showing your student’s role in a drama production;
• The annual yearbook;
• Honor roll or other recognition lists; including the website and newspaper;
• Graduation programs; and
• Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members.
• Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories – names, addresses and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. If parents want to opt out of the disclosure of Directory Information, release for student work and/or photographs on the Oak Ridge Schools websites, opt out forms are available in the school’s main office or guidance department. Please notify the building level principal of your request for this form and return it to the school office.
• Oak Ridge Schools has designated the following information as directory information:
  • Student’s name
  • Address
  • Telephone listing
  • Electronic mail address
  • Photograph
  • Date and place of birth
  • Major field of study
  • Dates of attendance
  • Grade level
  • Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
  • Weight and height of members of athletic teams
  • Degrees, honors, and awards received, including the most recent educational agency institution attended.

LEA Required Notifications

Per state law, each LEA is required to notify you of the following:

1. No fees or tuitions shall be required of any student as a condition of attending public schools or using its equipment while receiving educational training. All school fees must be authorized by the local board of education. Local board policy will determine activities during the school day and supplies that are required for participation in courses offered for credit or grade for which the board authorizes the requesting of fees.
2. The following school fees may be requested from but not required of any student, regardless of financial status (including eligibility for free or reduced-price lunch):
   1. Fees for activities that occur during regular school hours (the required one hundred eighty (180) instructional days), including field trips, any portion of which fall within the school day; or for activities outside regular school hours if required for credit or grade;
   2. Fees for activities and supplies required to participate in all courses offered for credit or grade, including interscholastic athletics and marching band if taken for credit in accordance with local board policies; and
   3. Refundable security deposits collected by a school for use of school property for courses offered for credit or grade, including interscholastic athletics and marching band if taken for credit in accordance with local board policies.
3. LEAs shall establish a process by which to waive the following school fees for students eligible for free or reduced-price school lunches:
   1. Fees or tuition applicable to courses taken for credit or grade during the summer by a student; except that non-resident students regularly enrolled in another school system may be required to pay fees or tuition for such summer courses; and
   2. Fees required for graduation ceremonies.
4. LEAs are authorized to require payment of the following fees by all affected students:
   1. Fines imposed on all students for late-returned library books; parking or other traffic fines imposed for abuse of parking privileges on school property; or reasonable charges for lost or destroyed textbooks, library books, workbooks or any other property of the school;
   2. Debts incurred pursuant to Rule 0520-01-02-.16(2)(b), Withholding of Student Grades for Debts Owed to the School;
   3. Refundable security deposits collected by a school for use of school property for participation in extracurricular activities;
   4. Costs for extracurricular activities occurring outside the regular school day including sports, optional trips, clubs or social events; and
   5. Non-resident tuition charged of all students attending a school system other than the one serving their place of residence.

McKinney –Vento Act for Homelessness (Title X)

The McKinney-Vento Act defines “homeless children and youths” as individuals who lack a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence. However, because the circumstances of homelessness vary with each family’s or unaccompanied youth’s situation, determining the extent to which the family or youth fits the definition will occur on a case-by-case basis. The Executive Director of Student Services is the homeless educational liaison for the Oak Ridge Schools.

Medicines

Prescription and non-prescription medication may be administered only with the written request and permission of a parent or guardian. The physician must complete the ORS-191 Authorization Form for prescription medications (and for any non-prescription medication to be given at a different dose than package insert recommendations.) For more information about administering medication at school, see Board Policy 6.405.

Meningitis & Flu Awareness

Per state law, the District is required to provide information to parent(s)/guardian(s) as to the following diseases.

Meningococcal meningitis is inflammation of the tissues and fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Symptoms can include fever, sudden severe headache, stiff neck, rash, nausea, and vomiting.

The bacteria that causes meningococcal meningitis is very common. Most people will carry this bacteria in the back of their nose and throat at some point in their lives without ever getting sick. In a few people, the bacteria overcomes the body’s immune system and passes through the lining of the nose and throat into the blood stream where it can cause meningitis.

Meningitis is spread through exchange of respiratory droplets or saliva with an infected person. Only a small percentage of people who are exposed to the bacteria will develop meningitis. The bacteria that causes meningitis is not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been.

There is a vaccine that will decrease the risk of some types of meningococcal meningitis, but it does not totally eliminate risk of the disease.

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Symptoms can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, feeling tired, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea.

Flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or talks. A person can also get the flu by touching something that has the flu virus on it and then touching his/her mouth, eyes, or nose.

There is a vaccine that can be received in the form of a flu shot or by nasal spray that can protect against the flu.

To receive additional information regarding these diseases, including locations to receive the vaccinations, contact:

Dr. Madison Branham, RN, DPNP

School Nurse Coordinator

mgbranham@ortn.edu | (865) 425-9009

Required Federal Notices Under No Child Left Behind (ESSA)

 

Parents may request, in accordance with public records policy, information about the professional qualifications of their child’s classroom teacher by contacting the Human Resources office.

If a child is the victim of a violent crime at school, the child has the right to attend another grade- appropriate public school in the district if the applicable offense is identified and defined in T.C.A. 40-38-111(g).

Section 504

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 provides that: No otherwise qualified individual with handicaps in the United States…solely by reason of his/her handicap, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, of be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.

The Section 504/ADA Coordinator for student concerns is: Executive Director of Student Services

304 New York Avenue

Oak Ridge, TN 37831 (865) 425-9025

The Section 504/ADA Coordinator for staff concerns is: Director of Human Resources

304 New York Avenue

Oak Ridge, TN 37831 (865) 425-9008

Statement of non-discrimination (Title IX)

The Oak Ridge Schools Board of Education prohibits discrimination against any student on the grounds of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, or disability. The Oak Ridge Schools seek to fully comply with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Further, the Board of Education forbids sexual allegation. No member of the Board, employee of the schools, agent of the schools, or student of the schools may harass any employee, person seeking employment or student on the basis of sex. Any person who believes they have been excluded from, or denied participation in, or refused the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to discrimination in school, should report all incidents to the principal immediately. Principals will report all student incidents to the Title IX Coordinator.

In accordance with Federal law and the U. S. Department of Agriculture policy, Oak Ridge Schools is prohibited from discriminating on basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 or (202) 720-6382 (TTY).

Surveys, Analyses, and Evaluations of Students

Surveys, analyses, and evaluations for research purposes shall be allowed by the Board when the project is viewed as contributory to a greater understanding of the teaching-learning process, the project does not violate the goals of the Board, and the disruption of the regular school program is minimal.

No student shall be required to submit to a survey, analysis, or evaluation that reveals information concerning:

1. Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;
2. Sexual behavior or attitudes;
3. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
4. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships;
5. Legally privileged relationships;
6. Income; or
7. The collection of student biometric data involving the analysis of facial expressions, EEG brain wave patterns, skin conductance, galvanic skin response, heart-rate variability, pulse, blood volume, posture, and eye-tracking without the prior consent of the student (if the student is an adult or emancipated minor), or in the case of an unemancipated minor, without the prior consent of the parent/guardian.

The collection of the following student data is strictly prohibited:

1. Political affiliation or voting history;
2. Religious practices; and
3. Firearm ownership.

Per state and federal law, prior to the dissemination of a survey, analysis, or evaluation to students, parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be notified of their ability to review the materials. Such notification shall include information indicating the purpose of the survey, analysis, or evaluation as well as who will have access to the results. The survey, analysis, or evaluation shall only be administered to students under the age of eighteen (18) whose parent(s)/guardian(s) provide written, informed, and voluntarily signed consent. A student who is eighteen (18) years of age or older may participate after he/she provides written, informed, and voluntarily signed consent.

The following surveys will be administered to ORS students this year:

• Universal Wellness Screener: A tool to help us measure success in the Life Ready portion of the Portrait of a Graduate: Self-awareness, self-discipline, and empathy. – Administered in the Fall
• Educational Effectiveness Survey: Diagnostic tool that captures students’ perceptions and attitudes toward school to help drive improvement and increase student success. – Administered in the Winter
• TN Together Survey: A tool used to capture data on substance use behaviors and attitudes among Tennessee public 8th , 10th-, and 12th grade students. – Administered in the Fall

Board Policy 6.4001

Title I

Title I programs provide funds to school districts in order to assist schools with the highest levels of economically disadvantaged youngsters to improve student achievement for all participating children, improve staff development and improve parental and community involvement.

Title III – English Language Learners

Title III programs focus on two main purposes: 1) ensure that English Learners (ELs) attain language proficiency and meet state academic standards and 2) provide enhanced instructional opportunities for immigrant children and youth.

Title VI – Civil Rights Act of 1964

No person in the Oak Ridge Schools shall, on the grounds of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any school program or school activity. The Executive Director of Student Services is the Title VI contact for any student concerns. The Director of Human Resources is the Title VI contact for any staff concerns.

Tennessee Department of Education Contact Information

Answers to many questions and much helpful information may be obtained from the State Department of Education by calling 1-888-212-3162 or visiting http://www.state.tn.us/education/speced/index.htm.

Legal Services Division

Division of Special Education, Tennessee Department of Education 710 James Robertson Parkway

Andrew Johnson Tower, 5th Floor Nashville, Tennessee 37243-2851

Phone: (615) 741-2851

Fax: (615) 253-5567 or (615) 532-9412

East Tennessee Regional Resource Center 2763 Island Home Boulevard Knoxville, Tennessee 37920

Phone: (865) 594-5691

Fax: (865) 594-8909

Child Advocacy Group Contact Information

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

A few of these organizations are listed below:

The ARC of Tennessee is on the Internet at http://www.thearchtn.org/ 44 Vantage Way, Suite 550

Nashville, TN 37228

Phone: (615) 248-5878 Toll free: 1-800-835-7077             E-mail: p.cooper@thearchtn.org

Support and Training for Exceptional Parents (STEP) is on the Internet at http://www.tnstep.org/ East Tennessee

712 Professional Plaza   (423) 639-2464

Greeneville, TN 37745    Karen.Harrison@tnstep.org

Tennessee Protection & Advocacy (TP&A) is on the Internet at http://www.tpainc.org/ 416 21st Avenue, South

Nashville, TN 37212

1-800-287-9636 (Toll free) or (615) 298-1080

(615) 298-2471 (TTY) Fax (615) 29802046

Tennessee Voices for Children is on the Internet at http://www.tnvoices.org/main.htm East Tennessee

Knoxville Area Phone (865) 609-2490 Fax: (865) 609-2543

 

 

These are but a few of the organizations available to help with information, training, and advocacy. For a more extensive list visit the Tennessee Disability Services – Disability Pathfinder Database: http://mingus.kc.vanderbilt.edu/tdir/dbsearch.asp

On the web page, select your “county” and the “service” you desire from the drop-down lists and click “Submit.”

Computers, Computer Networks, and the Internet

(Revised Acceptable Use Policy included in next section)

Students in grades 5-12, please see the Access Oak Ridge Handbook located in the back of the Discipline Handbook.

Students are responsible for good behavior on school computers and personal computers brought to school for use at school, and computer networks just as they are in a classroom or a school hallway. Communications on the network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply.

The school computer network is provided for students to conduct research and to communicate with others. Independent access to the Internet is provided to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Parent permission is required for minors. Access is a privilege, not a right. Access entails responsibility.

Individual users of the district computer networks are responsible for their behavior and communications over those networks. It is presumed that users will comply with district standards and will honor signed agreements.

Network storage areas may be considered analogous to school lockers. Network administrators, school site administrators, and teachers may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and to ensure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files or communication stored on district servers are private.

During school, teachers of younger students will guide them toward appropriate materials. Outside school, families bear the responsibility for such guidance.

The following actions are not permitted (inclusive of, but not limited to):

1. Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures
2. Using obscene language
3. Harassing, insulting or attacking others
4. Damaging computers, computer systems, or computer networks
5. Violating copyright laws, existing school policy or public law
6. Using the passwords of others
7. Trespassing in the folders, work, or files of others
8. Intentionally wasting limited resources
9. Employing the school resources for inappropriate purposes

Violations of acceptable use may result in loss of access. Additional disciplinary action may be determined at the building level in line with existing practice regarding inappropriate language or behavior. When applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved.

Personal Communication Devices

Students in possession of a personal communication device such as a cell phone or similar devices without principal permission will be subject to their personal communication devices being confiscated. Confiscated devices may be returned to the student’s parent/ guardian and/or local police. Disruptions to the classroom such as an audible signal, vibration, display of a message or other summon delivered to the possessor that is caused by a pager, telephone, or other device will be treated as disruptive behavior to the classroom environment and subject to the following consequences:

• First offense – item confiscated and returned to parent
• Second offense – item confiscated, returned to parent and student will serve detention
• Third offense – item confiscated, returned to parent and student will serve in- school suspension
• Fourth offense – item confiscated, returned to parent and student will serve out of school suspension.

Sexting

Sexting is the inappropriate display of the human anatomy via a cell phone or similar device. Sexting is illegal. This will result in suspension and will be reported to law enforcement officials.