2024-2025 School Year – Clarksville, Tennessee

Student Conduct
Rights, Responsibilities, Rules, Due Process Procedures

Our mission is to educate and empower our students to

reach their potential.

Our vision is all students will be college and career ready.

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 Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................................. 5
STUDENT EXPECTATIONS ............................................................................................................................... 5
LEGAL AUTHORITY (T.C.A. § 49-6-4002) ........................................................................................................ 5
NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER FERPA AND PPRA FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY
INSTITUTIONS..................................................................................................................................................... 6
ESSA: PARENTS RIGHT TO KNOW NOTIFICATION ................................................................................... 9
PARENT/STUDENT RIGHTS IN IDENTIFICATION, EVALUATION, AND PLACEMENT OF
STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES ..................................................................................................................... 9
DISCIPLINE OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES ................................................................................................ 9
IDEA ................................................................................................................................................................................ 10
SECTION 504 ................................................................................................................................................................. 10
PROTECTIONS FOR STUDENTS NOT YET ELIGIBLE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION AND/OR 504
PLAN AND RELATED SERVICES ................................................................................................................... 10
RESOURCES .................................................................................................................................................................. 11
DISCIPLINE-GENERAL ................................................................................................................................... 11
DETENTION .................................................................................................................................................................. 11
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (WHERE AVAILABLE) .............................................................................................. 12
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION PROCEDURE ............................................................................................................... 12
IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION OPERATION ................................................................................................................ 12
OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS, REMANDMENTS, AND EXPULSIONS ..................................................... 13
ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES .......................................................................................................................... 14
ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL ........................................................................................................................................... 15
APPEALS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 15
OFFENSES.......................................................................................................................................................... 19
CATEGORY 1 OFFENSES........................................................................................................................................... 19
Cell Phones and Electronic Devices 19
Inappropriate or Unauthorized use of Internet or District-Owned Devices – Not involving obscene materials or sites 19
Minor Dress Code Offenses 20
Tardiness 20
ADDITIONAL CATEGORY 1 OFFENSES 21
Disobedience 21
Minor disruptions 21
Obscene or Inappropriate Language with a Peer (not derogatory) Talking or other minor off-task behavior 21
Rude or Impolite Remarks to an Adult 21
Sleeping in Class 21
CATEGORY 2 OFFENSES........................................................................................................................................... 22
Boisterous Disruptive Conduct 22
Cheating, Plagiarism, Forgery 22

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 Dress Code (cannot be addressed by classroom teacher) 22
Gambling 23
Profane Language Used in Remarks to an Adult (not derogatory) 23
Repeated Category 1 Offenses 23
School Safety and Security 24
Skipping Class or Leaving Class Without Permission 24
CATEGORY 3 OFFENSES........................................................................................................................................... 25
Assault of Student 25
Fighting 25
Encouraging, Promoting, Urging or Furthering Fights. 26
Gangs (Display of Symbols) 26
Leaving School without Permission 27
Lewd or Lascivious Conduct 27
Other Conduct Warranting Discipline 27
Possession, Selling, or Distribution of Over-the-Counter Drugs 28
Possession or Transmission of Sexually Explicit Digital or Printed Materials to Include Sexting. 28
Repeated Category 2 Offenses 29
Theft 29
Threats 30
CBD/Tobacco/Vape 30
Vandalism and Defacing School Property Less Than $500 31
Verbal Altercation with Peer 31
Violation of School Rules 32
Vulgar and Profane Language Directed toward an Adult or Student; Derogatory 32
CATEGORY 4 OFFENSES........................................................................................................................................... 33
Activating False Fire Alarm 33
Alcohol& Other Intoxicating Substances (Not covered under Zero Tolerance offense of “Drugs.” 33
Any Item Sold or Dispensed Under the Pretense of a Controlled Substance 34
Arson 34
Bullying-related acts (including Cyber-bullying) Harassment, Intimidation, and Hazing 35
Gangs (Recruitment) 35
Non-Lethal Firearm 36
Other Conduct Warranting Discipline 36
Repeated Category 3 Offenses 36
Sexual Harassment 37
Sexual Intercourse on School Property or at School Events 37
Threats Toward Any School System Employee 38
Vandalism and Defacing School Property (Damage of $500 or more) 38
Violation of School Rules 39
Weapons and Dangerous Instruments 39
BUS OFFENSES ............................................................................................................................................................. 40
Minor Offenses on School Buses 41
Major Offenses on School Buses 41
ZERO-TOLERANCE OFFENSES ..................................................................................................................... 42
Aggravated Assault of Teacher, Staff, SRO, or Student. ............................................................................................ 42
Assault of Teacher, Staff,or SRO. ................................................................................................................................. 43
Threats of Mass Violence and Bomb Threats............................................................................................................... 43
Drugs ................................................................................................................................................................................ 44

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 Firearms .......................................................................................................................................................................... 44
BULLYING-RELATED ACTS............................................................................................................................ 45
EDUCATION, AWARENESS, AND INTERVENTION ............................................................................................ 46
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE ............................................................................ 49
NON-DISCRIMINATION................................................................................................................................... 50
DANGEROUS WEAPONS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY .................................................................................... 51
CONTRABAND ON SCHOOL PROPERTY (Including School Buses)........................................................... 51
STUDENT TRANSPORTATION ....................................................................................................................... 51
STUDENT CONDUCT ON SCHOOL BUSES .................................................................................................. 52
SECURING CARRY-ON ITEMS ON SCHOOL BUSES .................................................................................. 53
STUDENT ATTENDANCE ................................................................................................................................ 53
STUDENT DRESS CODE .................................................................................................................................. 54
RULES OF BEHAVIOR FOR STUDENT ATHLETES ................................................................................... 55
INTERROGATIONS AND SEARCHES ............................................................................................................ 55
TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USAGE POLICY .......................................................................................... 58
SAFE SCHOOL CHOICE................................................................................................................................... 60
ASSESSMENT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS .................................................................. 62
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ASSESSMENTS .............................................................................................................. 63
MIDDLE SCHOOL ASSESSMENTS .......................................................................................................................... 64
HIGH SCHOOL ASSESSMENTS ................................................................................................................................ 66
A FAMILY GUIDE TO RESPONSE TO INSTRUCTION AND INTERVENTION (RTI²) 2024-2025......... 67
GLOSSARY OF TERMS ..................................................................................................................................... 69
CODE OF CONDUCT & TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE AND RESPONSIBLE USE
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM ....................................................................................................................... 72

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It is the policy of the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (CMCSS) not to discriminate against any student, employee, or
applicant on the basis of marital status, race, color, creed, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.
CMCSS will ensure that no student will be excluded from participating in or having access to any course offerings, student athletics,
counseling services, employment assistance, extracurricular activities, or other school resources based on unlawful discrimination.
CMCSS will take all necessary steps to ensure that each employee’s work environment is free of unlawful discrimination. No office,
administrator, or employee of CMCSS, including any persons representing CMCSS, shall intimidate, threaten, harass, coerce,
discriminate against, or commit or seek reprisal against anyone who participates in any aspect of the discrimination complaint process
associated with this policy.

INTRODUCTION
The Student Code of Conduct is intended to inform students of some of the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System’s
policies and procedures that pertain directly to students. While the information contained in this document is intended to be
thorough, it should not be considered an exhaustive list of all applicable student policies. Although policies may be updated
throughout the school year, the Code of Conduct for the current school year shall take precedence during said school year. If
state or federal laws conflict with the current Code of Conduct, said laws always take precedence. By way of this document,
CMCSS is communicating district expectations regarding conduct and due process procedures regarding administrative
decisions or to express grievances. While the state of Tennessee allows for the use of corporal punishment, CMCSS prohibits
it (INS-A083). All teachers are trained on Adverse Childhood Experiences and Trauma-informed strategies. The Code is
based upon trauma-informed principles.

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS
• Students will respect their fellow students, teachers, rules, and regulations as they respect themselves.
• Students will communicate with others to help unite their school.
• Students will help eliminate the use of violence as an answer to problems and become a good citizen of the school.
• Students will demonstrate respect for their school campus.
• Students will support their school’s activities and organizations.
• Students will display good sportsmanship and school spirit at all times.
• Students will have reverence for their own beliefs and respect those of others.
• Students will work to improve their school.

LEGAL AUTHORITY (T.C.A. § 49-6-4002)

The Board of Education of the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System is required by state statute to make and adopt
rules setting forth standards of conduct and behavior that must be met by all pupils as a condition to the right of such pupils to
attend schools in this district. The rules shall take into account the necessity for scholastic progress in order that the welfare of
the greatest number of pupils shall be promoted, even though such rules may result in the ineligibility of pupils who fail to
observe the required standards and may require the suspension and/or expulsion of such pupils.

APPLICATION OF CODE
The following regulations concerning standards of conduct and behavior will apply to every student in Clarksville-
Montgomery County Schools.

THIS CODE OF CONDUCT APPLIES TO ANY STUDENT WHO IS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY, WHO IS ON A
SCHOOL BUS, WHO IS IN ATTENDANCE AT SCHOOL OR AT ANY SCHOOL- SPONSORED
ACTIVITY/PROGRAM, OR WHOSE CONDUCT AT ANY TIME OR PLACE (I.E., OFF-CAMPUS CONDUCT) HAS A
DIRECT AND IMMEDIATE EFFECT ON MAINTAINING ORDER AND DISCIPLINE IN THE SCHOOLS. THIS
INCLUDES ALL SOCIAL MEDIA, TO INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO, INSTAGRAM, TWITTER, FACEBOOK,
ETC. A TEACHER, PRINCIPAL, SCHOOL EMPLOYEE OR SCHOOL BUS DRIVER MAY USE REASONABLE
FORCE IN COMPLIANCE WITH T.C.A. § 49-6-4107.

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As outlined in CMCSS policies, school officials may question students at any time regarding suspected violations of school
policies or State laws by the student or others. A student’s failure to answer and otherwise cooperate may be grounds for
further disciplinary action.

Students while in transit to classes off school property, including but not limited to dual enrollment, job shadowing,
internships, apprenticeships, and clinicals are not the responsibility of CMCSS during the time they are enroute to and from
CMCSS by personal transportation means.

NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER FERPA AND PPRA FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY
INSTITUTIONS

Reference: Student Records Policy (REC-A001)

The Clarksville Montgomery County School System (CMCSS), in accordance with the provisions of the Family Educational
Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), affords parents, guardians, and students who are eighteen (18) years of age or older, certain
rights with respect to the student’s education records maintained by CMCSS. FERPA gives custodial and noncustodial
parents alike certain rights with respect to their children’s education records, unless a school is provided with evidence that
there is a court order that specifically provides to the contrary.

These rights are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days after the day CMCSS
receives a request for access. Parents and eligible students who wish to inspect their child’s or their
educational records should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request
that identifies the records 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.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student
believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA
and/or T.C.A. § 49-1-701, et seq. and/or T.C.A. § 10-7-504. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask
CMCSS to amend an educational record should write the principal and clearly identify the part of the
record they want changed and specify why it should be changed. If CMCSS decides not to amend the
record as requested by the parent or eligible student, CMCSS will notify the parent or eligible student of
the decision and 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 provide written consent before CMCSS discloses personally identifiable information from
the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA and T.C.A. § 49-1-701, et seq. authorize
disclosure without consent. One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to
school officials with legitimate educational interests. A CMCSS official is a person employed by CMCSS
as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member. A CMCSS official also may include a
contractor outside of CMCSS who performs an institutional service or function for which CMCSS would
otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of CMCSS with respect to the use
and maintenance of personally identifiable information from educational records, such as: an attorney,
auditor, medical consultant or therapist, School Resource Officer; or other contractor or volunteer
assisting another CMCSS official in performing his or her tasks. A CMCSS official has a legitimate
educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her
professional responsibility. Upon request, CMCSS discloses education records without consent to
officials of another public school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already
enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by
CMCSS to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers
FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Officer

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U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202

CMCSS must, with certain exceptions, obtain a parent’s written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable
information from a student’s education records. Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered
harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to some outside organizations without a parent’s prior
written consent. Information which is typically contained in yearbooks, graduation programs, honor rolls, and playbills
generally is not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released and can be disclosed to outside organizations without
a parent’s prior written consent. Such outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class
rings or publish yearbooks or photograph class pictures. These contracted vendors will be provided students’ primary mailing
addresses and/or parents’/guardians/ electronic mailing addresses and/or phone numbers by CMCSS unless the parent or
guardian submits written notice of opt out as described below.

CMCSS may disclose appropriately designated “directory information” without written consent. Directory information items
which can be published without consent include: name, grade level, name of the most recent school attended and the date
(years) of that attendance, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic
teams, recognitions and awards received, and other similar information that would not generally be considered harmful or an
invasion of privacy if disclosed, such as a photograph.

In addition, two federal laws require CMCSS, because it receives assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education
Act of 1965 (ESEA), to provide military recruiters, upon request, with the following information - names, addresses and
telephone listings – unless parents have advised CMCSS that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without
their prior written consent.

If you do not want this information released, you must send written notice to your child’s school within 30 days of the
first day of the academic school year. If such written notice is given for a student, then CMCSS will not share any
directory information for that student with any outside entity.

Amendment: The Uninterrupted Scholars Act amends FERPA to provide those personnel of state or federal agencies with
responsibility for the care and protection of children (i.e., Tennessee Department of Children’s Services) have the right to
access a student’s educational records without parental consent. The amendment also provides that school districts are not
required to give parents notice when a court orders release of the educational records in court proceedings involving
allegations of abuse and neglect. This means for students who are in state custody (including foster care) Tennessee
Department of Children’s Services caseworkers may now access a student’s educational records without parental consent,
whether or not the parental rights of the biological parents have been terminated, and school districts are not required to
notify the parents of the child before releasing the information pursuant to a court order. 20 U.S.C. 1232(g)

PPRA (20 U.S.C. § 1232h, 34 CFR Part 98) affords parents of students certain rights regarding, among other things,
participation in surveys, the collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These
include, but are not limited to, the right to:

Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following eight protected areas
(protected information survey) if the survey is funded as part of a program administered by the U.S. Department of Education
(Department) (applicable program):

1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent;

2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family;
3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; or
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

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Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of:

1. Any protected information survey administered or distributed to a student by a local educational agency
that is a recipient of funds under an applicable program (LEA) if the protected information survey is either
not funded as part of a program administered by the Department or is funded as part of a program
administered by the Department but to which a student is not required to submit;
2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening required by an LEA as a condition of
attendance; administered by the school and scheduled by the school in advance; and, that is not necessary to
protect the immediate health and safety of a student, with some exceptions; and
3. Activities of an LEA involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information collected from students
for the purpose of marketing or sale (or to otherwise distribute such information to others for that purpose),
with some exceptions.

Inspect, upon request:

1. Protected information surveys and surveys created by a third party, before the administration or
distribution by an LEA of the surveys to a student;
2. Any instrument used by an LEA to collect personal information for the purpose of marketing or sale (or
otherwise distributing such information for that purpose), before the instrument is administered or
distributed to a student, with some exceptions; and
3. Instructional material, excluding academic tests or academic assessments, used by an LEA as part of the
educational curriculum for a student.

These rights transfer from the parents to the student when the student turns 18 years old or becomes an emancipated minor
under applicable State law. In accordance with state law and (INS-A073), parents will have the right to review all survey,
analysis, or evaluation materials prior to their distribution to grant their permission before students participate.

School nurses and physical education teachers periodically measure student’s heart rate, vision, hearing, blood pressure,
height and weight as part of the student health services they provide. Parents are notified in advance, and are provided an
opportunity to opt students out of these services. CMCSS shall not collect individual student data on a student’s biometrics,
analysis of facial expression, EEG brain wave patterns, skin conductance, galvanic skin response, heart rate variability, pulse,
blood volume, posture, and eye-tracking without notifying parents and offering an option to opt out.

CMCSS on occasion participates in national, state, and local educational research projects to ensure all students have continuous
access to cutting edge research-based educational opportunities so every student may graduate college and career ready. These
projects may collect information through anonymous sources such as student surveys. In accordance with INS-A073, parents will
receive opportunities to review survey, analysis, or evaluation items before students are asked to participate to grant their permission
for students to participate. . Upon receiving notification of an upcoming survey, you should receive instructions on how to review
survey questions and give your permission.

Parents who seek additional resources on student privacy under PPRA may visit the Department’s Student Privacy Policy Office
website at https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/. Parents who believe their PPRA rights have been violated may file a complaint online by
selecting the PPRA complaint form option at https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/file-a-complaint or by mailing the form to the following
address:

Student Privacy Policy Office

U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20202

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 ESSA: PARENTS RIGHT TO KNOW NOTIFICATION

The Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 gives parents the right to request and receive information on the professional qualifications
of their child’s teachers and paraprofessionals. This includes information about whether the child’s teacher:
• has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides
instruction;
• is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which state qualification or licensing criteria have been
waived;
• is teaching in the field of discipline of the certification of the teacher; and
• is teaching alongside paraprofessionals. If so, the paraprofessional’s qualifications can be requested.

In addition, Title I schools must provide notice to parents on their child’s level of achievement and academic growth on required state
assessments. Title I parents must also be notified if their child has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who
does not meet the applicable state certification requirements at the grade level and subject area in which the teacher has been assigned.

You may open the following link to see the entire Parental Notification document.

PARENT/STUDENT RIGHTS IN IDENTIFICATION, EVALUATION, AND PLACEMENT OF

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

CMCSS will follow all current federal and state law and regulations regarding special education and Section 504 services.

Parents, guardians, and students with disabilities have certain rights under federal and state law. The intent of the law is to keep you fully
informed concerning decisions about your child, and to inform you of your rights if you disagree with a decision or if you feel like CMCSS
has not followed federal and state laws regarding students with disabilities. A copy of the Procedural Safeguards for students with an
Individualized Education Program (IEP) can be found at the location below:

Notice of Procedural Safeguards: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/education/special-education/idea/Procedural_Safeguards_english.pdf

You can also request a copy of the Procedural Safeguards by contacting your child’s Special Education case manager or 504 Building
Coordinator. You will also be given a copy of the Procedural Safeguards when you meet to discuss your student’s IEP or 504 Plan.

Additional information regarding parent and student rights and child advocacy group contact information can be obtained by contacting the
Clarksville-Montgomery County School System or the Tennessee Department of Education, 8th Floor, Andrew Johnson Tower, Nashville,
Tennessee, 37243-0380, phone: 615-741-2851.

DISCIPLINE OF STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

If a student with a disability violates school rules or district policies outlined in this handbook, the student will be disciplined
according to district policy and state and federal laws.

If the discipline is for ten (10) or fewer total school days per school year, then there has been no change in placement for the student
with disabilities. Suspensions or expulsions for more than a total of ten (10) days per school year shall be considered a change of
placement for students with disabilities. These rules apply to any student with an IEP or 504 Plan.

Prior to the change of placement, the student’s IEP-Team, as defined in the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), or the student’s
504-team, as defined in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, must meet and determine whether the offense is a manifestation
of the student’s disabilities based on the criteria set by current federal and state laws. The parent or guardian of the student is a
member of the IEP-team and/or 504-team. If the IEP-team or 504-team determine that the offensive behavior is a manifestation of the
student’s disability, then the student cannot be suspended or expelled in the same manner as students not eligible for services under
IDEA or Section 504.

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If the IEP-team or 504-team determines that the offensive behavior is not a manifestation of the student’s disability, the student may
be suspended or expelled the same as their non-disabled peers. All manifestation determinations are subject to due process
procedures. If the parent or guardian challenges the manifestation determination, then the student’s placement shall be frozen until
any administrative complaint or due process complaint can be resolved. Under IDEA, the frozen placement is in the alternative setting,
and under Section 504 the student continues to receive services under the last-agreed upon accommodations. If a student with an IEP
is suspended or expelled, the student must still receive educational services as determined by their IEP-team.

IDEA

The District may remove a student to an interim alternative educational placement, determined by the IEP-team, for no more than 45
school days, in cases where the student commits one of the following offenses, at school on school premises, or at a school function
under the jurisdiction of the school district:

1. Carrying or possessing a weapon;

2. Possessing or using illegal drugs or selling or soliciting the sale of a controlled substance; or

3. Inflicting serious bodily injury upon another person.

If the student commits one of the above offenses, the change to an interim alternative placement can occur regardless of whether the
behavior is determined to be a manifestation of the student’s disability.

Regardless of the offense, the parent/guardian can agree to a change of placement when the behavior is a manifestation of their child’s
disability.

SECTION 504

For a student with a Section 504 Plan, the District is not required to hold a manifestation meeting for current use* of illegal drugs or
alcohol, and the student may be disciplined in the same manner as non-disabled peers for use of illegal drugs or alcohol.

*“Current use” means that the student was seen using or admitted to using the illegal drugs or alcohol on school grounds. A student
who is found in possession of illegal drugs or alcohol is still entitled to a manifestation meeting under Section 504, unless it can be
proven that the student was currently using the illegal drugs or alcohol.

PROTECTIONS FOR STUDENTS NOT YET ELIGIBLE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION AND/OR 504
PLAN AND RELATED SERVICES

If a student has not been determined eligible for special education under IDEA or Section 504, and the student violates the student
code of conduct, the student may assert any of the protections described in this notice if the school district was aware of a suspected
disability prior to the behavior incident. For the school district to have prior knowledge of a student’s disability: 1) The parent of the
student expressed concern in writing to supervisory or administrative personnel of the appropriate educational agency, or to a teacher
of the student, that the child is in need of special education and related services; or 2) The parent requested an evaluation related to
eligibility for special education and related services; or 3) The student’s teacher, or other school district personnel, expressed specific
concerns about a pattern of behavior demonstrated by the child directly to the school district’s Director of Special Populations or to
other supervisory personnel of the school district.

A school district will not be deemed to have prior knowledge if: 1) The student’s parent has not allowed an evaluation of the student
or refused special education services or Section 504: or 2) The student has been evaluated and determined to not be a child with
disability under IDEA or Section 504.

Informal conversations about students with potential needs for special education services or 504 Plan do not constitute knowledge that
the student may need services.

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Families who suspect their child has a disability may request in writing that their child’s school start the referral process.

RESOURCES

Parents may access information about child advocacy groups and student rights and services from the following agencies:

Clarksville-Montgomery County School Department of Student Services, 430 Greenwood Avenue, Clarksville, TN 37040, 931-542-
5065

Clarksville - Montgomery County School Department of Special Populations, 1312 Hwy 48, Clarksville, TN 37040, 931-553-1166
CMCSS Special Populations Family Site

Clarksville - Montgomery County School Section 504, 1312 Hwy 48, Clarksville, TN 37040, 931-553-1166
Section 504 Parent Hub

Tennessee Department of Education Legal Services Division, 710 James Robertson Parkway, Andrew Johnson Tower, 5th Floor,
Nashville, TN 37243-0380, 615-741-2921

DISCIPLINE-GENERAL

DUE PROCESS: EXCEPT IN AN EMERGENCY, NO DISCIPLINARY MEASURE OF ANY NATURE SHALL BE

IMPOSED AGAINST THE STUDENT UNTIL THE STUDENT HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE NATURE OF THE
STUDENT’S ALLEGED MISCONDUCT, QUESTIONED ABOUT IT, AND ALLOWED TO GIVE AN
EXPLANATION.

When it has been determined that a student has violated a provision of this policy, the student will receive appropriate
consequences. A discipline record will be maintained on each student. Whenever a child is found guilty of a violation of the
Code of Conduct, the principal will issue appropriate discipline.

Student offenses are divided into categories:

• Category 1 offenses are typically addressed by the classroom teacher.
• Category 2 offenses are considered minor office referrals that are addressed by a school administrator or
designee.
• Category 3 offenses are more serious offenses resulting in an office referral and addressed by a school
administrator or designee.
• Category 4 offenses include egregious acts that may result in remandment to the Alternative School.
• Zero Tolerance offenses are determined by either state law or district policy; students committing a
Zero Tolerance offense shall be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year from the
date of the incident.
• Offenses occurring on CMCSS school buses are described within this document, but are not included in
the categories described above.

Any conduct not specifically enumerated herein occurring on school premises or at any school-sponsored activity which
constitutes a crime under the laws of the state of Tennessee or the United States shall be addressed by the school principal,
level director, and appropriate law enforcement.

It is the policy of CMCSS that corporal punishment shall not be utilized (INS-A083).

DETENTION

A student may be detained before or after school for disciplinary reasons provided the parents of such student have been
given advance notice. Saturday detention may also be assigned, if available. Parents shall be responsible for arranging the
student’s transportation to comply with the detention schedule. While in detention, the student will be required to engage in

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some constructive activity related to the school. Such activity shall be in compliance with school and state rules and
regulations relative to the student’s safety and welfare. Supervised study of class assignments or additional assignments may
be assigned. Failure to attend detention will result in additional consequences.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (WHERE AVAILABLE)

Facilities
An in-school suspension teacher will be assigned to each middle school or high school where the program is available.
Elementary schools may use existing staff to supervise a similar setting in their buildings. Teachers may be utilized by the
principal as either substitute or supplementary teachers when no students are assigned to the ISS classroom.

The principal of each school will identify an isolated area where students assigned to ISS have no contact with other
students. In-school suspension is appropriate for Category 2 or Category 3 offenses.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION PROCEDURE

1. Students shall be assigned to the ISS program by the principal or his/her designee. Prior to assignment to ISS,
students shall be given due process.
2. After a student has been assigned to ISS, the principal or his/her designee will notify parents.
3. The regular teachers of students assigned to the ISS program will supply class work for each day the student is
assigned.
4. For physical assignments given to students, the ISS teacher will check the work assigned and return the work to the
regular teacher for evaluation.
5. At the discretion of the principal, early exit from the ISS program may be granted for first offenders.
6. The early exit opportunity may not be allowed in the case of a repeat offender.
7. Students may be assigned ISS on a repeated basis in any given school year.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION OPERATION

(A) In School Suspension is defined as: a program of in-school suspension (ISS) entails the suspension of the offender from regular
classes while still keeping the student in school.

1. The student will be required to sign a contingency contract with the ISS teacher and administrator that must be
completed prior to return to regular classes. The ISS teacher will determine if the contract is fulfilled.
2. Students will be required to do specific work that has been assigned by regular teachers and additional work
assigned by the ISS teacher designed to foster a more positive attitude. When work assigned by regular teachers
has been completed to the satisfaction of the ISS teacher, it will be returned to the regular teachers for
evaluation.
3. Students will remain under the supervision of the ISS teacher during lunch.
4. Students will have two five-minute designated restroom breaks, one during the morning session and one
during the afternoon session. Restroom breaks will not coincide with regular classroom changes.
5. Students will be totally restricted while assigned to the ISS program. This includes all assemblies and school-
sponsored activities both during and after school on all school campuses.
6. The ISS teacher will maintain a file of each student’s assignment. This information will not become a part of
the student’s permanent record.
7. At the option of the principal, a conference may be required with the student, the principal (or his/her
designee), the parent/guardian, and the ISS teacher upon assignment to the ISS program and before returning to
the regular program.
8. With principal approval, the ISS teacher may assign up to five (5) additional days of in-school suspension for
misconduct or lack of cooperation by the student. Continued or severe misconduct or lack of cooperation will
result in further disciplinary action to include possible suspension or expulsion by a school administrator.

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 OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS, REMANDMENTS, AND EXPULSIONS

(A) Suspension is defined as exclusion from school and school-sponsored activities for a definite period not to exceed ten
(10) days. Expulsion is defined as exclusion or removal for more than ten (10) consecutive days from school and from any
activity sponsored by any CMCSS school. Remandment is defined as an assignment to Alternative School. CMCSS honors
the remandment and expulsion assignments of other districts. However, in the case of a student enrolling from another school
district who was expelled by the student’s prior district/school for a ZT offense, the enrolling student is ineligible for
placement at alternative school for said ZT offense unless the student is a special populations student.

(B) Any principal, principal-teacher or assistant principal of any public school in this state is authorized to suspend a pupil
from attendance at school, including its sponsored activities, or from riding a school bus, for good and sufficient reasons as
set forth in T.C.A. §49-6-3401(a). Out of school suspensions may be an appropriate response for Category 3 or Category 4
offenses.

Good and sufficient reasons for suspension/remandment/expulsion from attendance include, but are not limited to:

1. Willful and persistent violation of the rules of the school;

2. Immoral or disreputable conduct or vulgar or profane language;
3. Violence or threatened violence against the person of any personnel attending or assigned to any public school;
4. Willful or malicious damage to real or personal property of the school, or the property of any person
attending or assigned to the school;
5. Inciting, advising or counseling of others to engage in any of the acts enumerated in 1-4 above;
6. Marking, defacing, or destroying school property;
7. Possession of a pistol, gun, or firearm on school property;
8. Possession of a knife, etc., as defined in T.C.A § 39-17-1301 on school property;
9. Assaulting a principal, teacher, school bus driver, or other school personnel with vulgar, obscene, or
threatening language;
10. Unlawful use or possession of barbital or legend drugs, as defined in T.C.A. § 53-10-101;
11. One (1) or more students initiating a physical attack on an individual student on school property or at a
school activity, including travel to and from school or a school activity;
12. Making a threat, including a false report, to use a bomb, dynamite, any other deadly explosive or
destructive device, including chemical weapons, on school property or at a school-sponsored event;
13. Any other conduct prejudicial to good order in any public school; and
14. Off campus criminal behavior that results in the student being legally charged with an offense that
would be classified as a felony if the student was charged as an adult or if adjudicated delinquent for an
offense that would be classified as a felony if the student was an adult, or if the student was convicted
of a felony, and the student's continued presence in school poses a danger to persons or property or
disrupts the educational process. Notwithstanding § 37-1-131 or any other law to the contrary, the
principal of the school in which the student is enrolled and the director of schools shall determine the
appropriate educational assignment for the student released for readmission. T.C.A. § 49-6-3401(a).

(C) Upon suspension of any student other than for in-school suspension of one (1) day or less, the principal shall, within
twenty-four (24) hours, notify the parent/guardian and the Director of Schools or designee of:

1. The suspension, which shall be for a period of no more than ten (10) school days; if schools are closed
for any reason, days out of school will not count toward the days suspended;
2. The cause for the suspension; and
3. The conditions for readmission, which may include, at the request of either party, a meeting of the
parent/guardian, student and principal.

(D) If the suspension is for more than five (5) days, the principal shall develop and implement a plan for improving the
behavior, which shall be made available for review by the Director upon request.

(E) If, at the time of the suspension, the principal/designee determines that an offense has been committed which would
justify a suspension for more than ten (10) days (expulsion), such person may suspend a student unconditionally for a

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specified period of time or upon such terms and conditions as are deemed reasonable.

1. The principal shall immediately give written or actual notice to the parent or guardian and the student
of the right to appeal the decision to suspend for more than ten (10) days. (See “APPEALS”)
2. In the event the suspension occurs during the last ten (10) days of any term or semester, the pupil may
be permitted to take such final examinations or submit such required work as is necessary to complete
the course of instruction for that semester, subject to the action of the principal, or the final action of
the Board of Education upon any appeal from an order of a principal continuing a suspension.

(F) Zero Tolerance (see Zero Tolerance section)

ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES

(A) When a student is to be suspended for a period longer than ten (10) days or expelled, the principal shall make every effort
to secure written statements regarding the incident and shall maintain documents and relevant information relating to the
incident. Copies of written statements and documents shall be available at the school for review by the student’s parents,
guardians or representatives; however, names of student witnesses shall be deleted from such statements and documents
before they are made available to non-school personnel.
(B) When a student is suspended, it will be the student’s responsibility to see the teacher about any missed work, nine weeks
test, unit tests, or semester examinations upon the day of the student’s return to school. When a student is suspended, the
student will have the opportunity to receive credit for any work missed, if the student makes arrangements with his/her
teachers to do so.

(C) Except in an emergency, no principal shall suspend any student until that student has been advised of the nature of the
student’s misconduct, questioned about it, and allowed to give an explanation.

(D) Whenever a student is suspended and the number of school days remaining in the school year is less than the number of
days of the suspension imposed, the student shall serve the balance of the suspension at the beginning of the following school
year.

(E) Upon imposing any remandment/expulsion, the principal shall notify the parent or guardian, Director of Student Services,
and the Principal of the Alternative School and AGE Program of the remandment/expulsion, the cause of the
remandment/expulsion, and any conditions for readmission. The principal shall attempt to give such notice by telephone and
email and, in any event, shall mail such notice to the parent or guardian with a copy to the Director of Student Services and
the Principal of the Alternative School and the AGE Program within 24 (twenty-four) hours from the imposition of the
remandment/expulsion. The principal’s decision regarding a request for re-admission prior to the expiration of the term of
remandment/expulsion shall be final.

(F) General education students may not be remanded to the Alternative School more than once in a school year. This would
result in expulsion for the remainder of that school year or thirty (30) school days as determined by the CMCSS school
calendar, whichever is greater. The student may make a written application to be re-admitted at the beginning of the next
school year in all cases. That application shall be submitted to the school principal for consideration. The principal shall
schedule a conference with the student and the student’s parent or guardian and make a determination regarding re-admission
prior to the completion of the thirty (30) days. Upon making a decision, the principal shall notify the student’s parent or
guardian and shall forward the basis of their decision to the director or his/her designee. In considering the request for re-
admission, the following factors shall be considered:

1. The student’s prior discipline record and progress in school.

2. Whether the student shows genuine remorse for the actions, which prompted the expulsion.
3. Whether the student’s activities during the period of expulsion demonstrate genuine change in the
student’s attitude and genuine interest in pursuing the educational goals of the Clarksville-Montgomery
County School System.
4. The student’s relationship with his/her peers and the faculty and staff of the school.
5. In considering re-admission, the Director of Schools, the Director of Student Services, and the referring
principal may impose such conditions upon re-admission as they, in their sole discretion, see fit.

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 Conditions of readmission shall be reduced to writing, signed by the student and parent or legal
guardian, and must contain a provision that additional discipline problems may result in a second
expulsion.

(G) Out of district students registering in CMCSS with a prior, existing, or unfulfilled remandment/expulsion will complete
disciplinary assignments before attending any CMCSS school. Out of district students receiving special education services
under IDEA will complete their expulsion period at the Alternative School or an alternative education setting determined by
their IEP team.

(H) Previously enrolled CMCSS students who withdrew and are re-enrolling in CMCSS with a prior, existing, unfulfilled
remandment/expulsion will complete their disciplinary assignments prior to attending any CMCSS school. For a student with
a prior and existing expulsion to return to a CMCSS school the student must have not attended any CMCSS school for the
entire 180 days and such period of time is without regard to whether the student enrolled in and attended the AGE program.
Students receiving special education services under IDEA will complete their expulsion at the Alternative School or an
alternative education setting determined by their IEP team. For a student with a prior remandment, the student must have
completed the entirety of the assigned remanded days to the Alternative School before the student will be allowed to attend
any other CMCSS school.
ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL

As a means of furthering its program of assisting students who may require a more structured academic environment,
CMCSS provides an alternative school setting. Students in grades 3-5 may attend BASE (Behavior, Academic, Social, and
Emotional) Academy as an alternate school setting. Students in grade 6-12 who are remanded may be required to attend the
Alternative School as a condition of re-admittance to their assigned school. The length of assignment to Alternative School is
to be determined by the Student Code of Conduct, the principal who imposed the suspension/remandment and the Director of
Student Services. Days may be added to initial remandment by the Alternative School principal due to misbehavior. Only the
Director of Schools may shorten the length of assignment. General education students may not be remanded to the
Alternative School more than once in a school year.

To avoid excessive absences and possible truancy charges in juvenile court, parents should begin the process of enrolling
their child in Alternative School, even if the parent intends to appeal the remandment. A staff member from the Alternative
School will contact the parent to schedule an intake meeting at the Alternative School. For parents desiring to appeal the
remandment, the appeal process is described in the following section titled “Appeals”.

Students expelled under the zero tolerance provisions of the Code of Conduct and who are expelled for a period of not less
than one year may be considered for a modification of placement options by the Director of Schools, after a consideration on
a case-by-case basis, and space availability of programs. Students assigned to Alternative School are subject to all rules
pertaining to the Alternative School, to include this Code, and may be subject to further discipline, including suspension and
expulsion for additional violations of the code of conduct while attending the Alternative School.
See T.C.A. § 49-6-3402

NOTE:
If a student who has been assigned to the Alternative School elects to withdraw from CMCSS prior to completion of the
assigned time in Alternative School, the student will be required to re-enroll and complete the Alternative School obligation
before being allowed to attend any school in CMCSS.

APPEALS

Overview
Suspensions of ten (10) days or less may be appealed to the school principal, unless the underlying offense is sexual
harassment in which case a designee will be established.

If a student has been remanded to alternative school/expelled for more than ten (10) school days, the decision of guilt or
innocence may be appealed to the Disciplinary Hearing Authority. If the parent or the school administrator wishes to appeal

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the decision of the Discipline Hearing Authority, the appeal may be made in writing to the Director of Schools or his/her
designee. The Director of Schools is not required to conduct a hearing on such matters.

Requests for review solely regarding length of expulsion/remandment, not guilt or innocence, are ONLY addressed by the
Director of Schools or his/her designee. These requests for review should be made in writing to the Director of Schools at
621 Gracey Avenue, Clarksville, TN 37040. The Director of Schools is not required to conduct a hearing on such matters.
Decisions by the Director of Schools or his/her designee on such matters are final.

Filing an Appeal
The principal shall immediately give written or actual notice to the parent or guardian and the student of the right to appeal
the decision to suspend for more than ten (10) days. All appeals must be filed, orally or in writing, within five (5) days after
receipt of the suspension/remandment/expulsion notice and may be filed by the parent or guardian, the student, or any person
holding a teaching license who is employed by the school system who agrees to file the request upon behalf of the student.
Appeals should be made to the Director of Student Services, using the contact information provided below:

Director of Student Services

430 Greenwood Avenue, Clarksville, TN 37040
931-542-5069

The hearing shall be held no later than ten (10) days after the beginning of the suspension. The Hearing Authority shall give
written notice of the time and place of the hearing to the parent, the student, and to the school official who ordered the
remandment, suspension, or expulsion. Notice shall also be given to any local education agency employee who requests a
hearing on behalf of a suspended student. Email is acceptable as a written notice.

After the hearing, the Disciplinary Hearing Authority may affirm the decision of the principal, order removal of the
suspension unconditionally or upon such terms and conditions as it deems reasonable, assign the student to an alternative
program or suspend the student for a specified period of time.

A written record of the proceedings, including a summary of the facts and the reasons supporting the decision, shall be made
by the Disciplinary Hearing Authority. A copy of the Hearing Authority’s decision shall be mailed and emailed to the
student’s parents or representative and to the building administrator who presented the case within 5 instructional days of the
close of the hearing. The student or principal may, within five (5) days of the decision, appeal to the Director of Schools.
Absent a timely appeal, the decision shall be final. Such appeal will be made, in writing, addressed to the Director at 621
Gracey Avenue, Clarksville, TN 37040. The Director may review the matter solely upon the record before the Disciplinary
Hearing Authority or may conduct a hearing, or meet with the administration and/or persons appealing the Disciplinary
Authority’s decision in order to resolve the issues. Within ten (10) days from the receipt of the appeal request, the Director
shall give written notice to the student and principal by mail and email of the Director’s decision. The Director may designate
a staff member, other than the Hearing Authority who heard the matter, to consider the appeal. Absent a timely appeal, the
determination of the Director or Director’s designee shall be final.

The student or principal may appeal the decision of the Director of Schools to the Board of Education provided such appeal is
made within five (5) days of the Director or Director’s designee decision. Such appeal shall be made in writing, and directed
to the Board of Education (621 Gracey Avenue, Clarksville, TN 37040). The Board of Education, based upon a review of the
record, may grant or deny a request for a Board hearing, and may affirm or overturn the decision of the Hearing Authority
with or without a hearing before the Board, provided that the Board may not impose a more severe penalty than that imposed
by the Hearing Authority without first providing an opportunity for a hearing before the Board. After reviewing the record,
and when the matter is presented to the Board of Education for determination, if no motion is made to grant a hearing, to
affirm or overturn the decision of the Hearing Authority, or to modify the discipline imposed, the decision of the Director
shall be considered affirmed. In all respects, once the matter has been determined by the Board of Education, the action of the
Board shall be final.

In the event the suspension occurs during the last ten (10) days of any term or semester, the pupil may be permitted to take
such final examinations or submit such required work as is necessary to complete the course of instruction for that semester,
subject to the action of the principal, or the final action of the Board of Education upon any appeal from an order of a
principal continuing a suspension.

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1. Purpose and Composition of the Hearing Authority

The Hearing Authority will consider appeals of a principal’s decision to remand or expel students for longer than ten
(10) days and perform other duties set forth in this document. The Hearing Authority will be a member of the Student Services
staff who is a licensed employee. The Hearing Authority shall be the presiding officer at any hearing and shall:

(a) Schedule a hearing at a specified date, time and place and give written notice of such to the parent or
guardian and principal. The Hearing Authority may reschedule any date and time or place for good
cause.
(b) Be available before the hearing to answer any questions that the student, his/her parents, guardians, or
representative may have about the nature and conduct of the hearing.
(c) Have full charge of the hearing and have the authority to direct its proceedings and to control the
conduct of all persons present, subject to the general directions of this policy.
(d) Make a written record of the proceedings to include a summary of the facts and reasons supporting the decision.
(e) Transmit written findings and recommendations to the principal, the student, and the student’s parents,
guardians or representatives.

2. Conduct of the Hearing

(a) Closed Hearing

Unless an open hearing is requested on behalf of the student, the hearing may be attended only by the Hearing Authority, the
principal or his/her designee, the student, the parents, the student’s representative, the recording secretary, and school
officials who may observe but not participate in the hearing. Witnesses should be present only when giving information to the
Hearing Authority. The student may be excluded at the discretion of the Hearing Authority, with the concurrence of the
student’s parents (or the representative when the representative acts in the place of the parents) at times when the student’s
psychological or emotional problems are being discussed (see section h below). All participants must be physically present
since it is a closed hearing. No phone conferences or Zoom meetings will be allowed.

(b) Student Testimony

Students are obligated to cooperate with administrators investigating suspected violations of Student Conduct and should
truthfully respond to inquiries put to them about their conduct or the conduct of other students. Students may testify on their
own behalf or may be called to testify by the Principal or Hearing Authority. Students may be questioned about their
testimony. Any statements made by the student may be considered by the Hearing Authority in reaching its determination.

(c) Record of the Hearing

A written record of the proceedings, including a summary of the facts and the reasons supporting the decision, shall be made
by the Hearing Authority.

(d) Principal’s Presentation of Evidence and Witnesses

It shall be the principal’s duty to produce witnesses having knowledge of the relevant facts or such other evidence as is
necessary to establish by a preponderance of evidence the student’s guilt. Hearsay evidence is admissible. The Hearing
Authority also has the discretion to accept affidavit testimony from a School Resource Officer (SRO) as to the results of field
tests conducted by the SRO in the performance of his/her duties at a school. Further, upon request of the Hearing Authority,
the student, the parents (or the student’s representative), or the principal shall submit to the Hearing Authority the student’s
record of previous behavior and his/her academic record. If the principal or the Hearing Authority deems it necessary, the
information contained in such records shall be explained and interpreted by a person trained in its use and interpretation.

(e) Use of Witnesses

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At any time it appears necessary to do so, the Hearing Authority may recess or adjourn for the purpose of securing additional
evidence or testimony to aid it in reaching a decision. Scheduled hearings may be adjourned or postponed for any reasonable
cause such as the illness or absence of witnesses and the decision of such matters rest within the sound discretion of the
Hearing Authority.

(f) Examination of Witnesses

The Hearing Authority, the principal or his/her designee, or the student, or the student’s parents or representative on the
student’s behalf may question witnesses about any matters logically relevant to the charges against the student and the
proper disposition of the matter. The Hearing Authority has the responsibility and authority to limit repetitious,
unproductive, unduly long, or irrelevant questioning.

(g) Role of the Parents

The parents should be present at the hearing and should have an opportunity to make a statement to the Hearing Authority of
their opinions about the proper disposition of the case and to answer questions relating thereto.

(h) Adult Representation in Addition to Parents

If the parents cannot be present or if the student or the parents think the student’s interest can be better protected at the
hearing by the presence of another adult in addition to the parents or guardian, the student may bring another adult to the
hearing. The non-parent adult may act as a representative on behalf of the student, with the right to present witnesses,
question any and all witnesses, make a statement on the nature of the evidence and the proper disposition of the case, and
otherwise assist the student. The non-parent may be an attorney. If the intent is that a non-parent adult will act as a
representative on behalf of the student, notice must be given to the Hearing Authority prior to the start of the hearing. In
addition, it is the responsibility of the parent, student and/or non-parent adult to indicate on the record at the beginning of the
hearing who is representing the student.

3. Disposition of the Case

The decision must be based solely on the evidence presented at the hearing. If no misconduct is found, the matter is
terminated and no further action may be taken against the student, and records of the disciplinary action shall be removed
from the student’s permanent records. When some misconduct is found, the Hearing Authority shall determine what action, if
any, should be taken based on the Student Conduct policy. A copy of the Hearing Authority’s decision shall be mailed and
emailed to the student’s parents or representative and to the building administrator who presented the case within five (5)
instructional days from the close of the hearing. If Alternative School attendance is required as part of the decision and the
student fails to appear for their intake appointment or fails to attend Alternative School as required, a truancy petition may be
filed by Student Services. If continued misbehavior occurs while in the Alternative School, the student will not be allowed to
continue, and an appropriate petition may be filed,

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 OFFENSES
CATEGORY 1 OFFENSES
Typically handled by the classroom teacher.

HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

CATEGORY 1 student consequences will not be provided
MIDDLE SCHOOL
OFFENSE except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Redirection from teacher or staff, parent/guardian contact. Teacher or staff submits discipline
Cell Phones and referral for non-compliance or second and subsequent offenses.
Electronic Devices
Range of Consequences: Detention, In School Suspension 1-3 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions.

Explanation: Use of cell phones other than those required for instructional purposes, is prohibited. Individual schools will develop
and communicate expectations for compliance. Electronic devices include, but are not limited to, smart devices, headphones,
earbuds, etc.

NOTE: School administration may search and review cell phones, including calls, contacts, texts, Internet access, etc., if there is a
reasonable suspicion that a search will reveal a violation of school rules. Students have no expectation of privacy for cell phone
use. Students assume all responsibility for lost or stolen devices. Building principal may approve use of cell phones for
instructional purposes on a case-by-case basis. Please see the Interrogations and Searches section for additional information.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

Related Policies: SAF-A009

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate

for age of student and within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

CATEGORY 1
MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
OFFENSE
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Redirection from teacher or staff, parent/guardian contact. Teacher or staff submits discipline
Inappropriate or referral for non-compliance or second and subsequent offenses.
Unauthorized use of
Internet or District-
Range of Consequences: Classroom intervention, administrative detention, or ISS not to exceed 1-3 days.
Owned Devices – Not
involving obscene
Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions.
materials or sites

Explanation: See Technology Acceptable Use Policy (TCH-A002), and

Interrogations and Searches section for more information.

Related Policies: INS-A046, TCH-A002

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be

developmentally appropriate for age of student and within the
confines of the Code of Conduct.

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 CATEGORY 1 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Options for classroom teacher:

Minor Dress Code • Ask student if they have a change of clothing
Offenses • Ask student to turn offensive shirt inside-out
• Provide duct tape to cover inappropriate rips in clothing
• Ask student to pull up sagging pants
• Ask student to remove cap
Required: Redirection from teacher or staff, parent/guardian contact. Teacher or staff submits
discipline referral for non-compliance or second and subsequent offenses.

Range of Consequences: Classroom intervention, administrative detention, or ISS not to exceed 1-3
days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions.

Explanation: Minor Dress code offenses are those that can be easily fixed or clothing adjusted to be in compliance with the dress
code.
*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

CATEGORY student consequences will not be provided
MIDDLE SCHOOL
1 OFFENSE except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

All students who are tardy to school (homeroom) must report to the office. Classroom teacher
Tardiness documents tardiness throughout the school day and remind student of expectations. A warning is
given to the student upon the first offense. A parent is contacted (email, text, or phone call) after
the second offense; a discipline referral is submitted upon the third offense.
Required: Redirection from teacher or staff, parent/guardian contact. Teacher or staff submits
discipline referral for non-compliance or third and subsequent offenses.

Range of Consequences: Classroom intervention, administrative detention, or ISS not to exceed 1-3
days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions.

Explanation: Failing to attend classes promptly within the time limits set by the school. Teachers may impose classroom penalties
for any unexcused tardiness.
*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

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 HIGH SCHOOL
MIDDLE SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
ADDITIONAL student consequences will not be provided
CATEGORY 1 *ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
OFFENSES

Disobedience
Required: Redirection from teacher or staff, parent/guardian contact. Teacher or staff submits discipline
Minor disruptions referral for non-compliance or second and subsequent offenses.

Range of Consequences: Classroom intervention, administrative detention, or ISS not to exceed 1-3
Obscene or
days.
Inappropriate
Language with a Peer
(not derogatory) Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom
change, as necessary.
Talking or other minor
off-task behavior

Rude or Impolite
Remarks to an Adult

Sleeping in Class

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

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 CATEGORY 2 OFFENSES

An office referral is submitted, and it is addressed by a school administrator or designee.

HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

CATEGORY 2
MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
OFFENSE except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Boisterous Disruptive PowerSchool for repeated offenses.
Conduct
Range of Consequences: Administrative detention, In School Suspension 1-3 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

Explanation: Engaging in loud, rowdy conduct that is disruptive to the educational process. Teachers charging students
with boisterous or disruptive conduct shall specify in detail in what way the conduct was disruptive or boisterous.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and
within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

CATEGORY 2 student consequences will not be provided
MIDDLE SCHOOL
OFFENSE except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, allow student to complete assignment or provide alternate assignment.
Cheating, Plagiarism, Teacher/staff submits discipline referral. Administrator checks PowerSchool for repeat offenses.
Forgery
Range of Consequences: Administrative detention, In School Suspension 1-3 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 2 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Dress Code (cannot PowerSchool for repeated offenses.
be addressed by
classroom teacher) Range of Consequences: Administrative detention, In School Suspension 1-3 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

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 CATEGORY HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
2 OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator

Gambling 1 reviews PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.

Range of Consequences: Administrative detention, In School Suspension 1-3 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions,

schedule/classroom change, as necessary.

Explanation: Wagering money or personal property.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 2 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Profane Language Used PowerSchool for repeated offenses.
in Remarks to an Adult
(not derogatory) Range of Consequences: Administrative detention, In School Suspension 1-3 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.
Explanation: Using profane, vulgar, or obscene language/gestures.

Related Offense Code: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 2 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Repeated Category 1 PowerSchool for repeated offenses.
Offenses
Range of Consequences: Administrative detention, In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

1
T.C.A. § 39-17-501

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 CATEGORY 2 OFFENSE HIGH SCHOOL
MIDDLE SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
School Safety and PowerSchool for repeated offense and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
Security
Range of Consequences: Administrative detention, In School Suspension 1-3 days, restriction or
removal of parking privileges on school campus.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

Explanation: Students who prop open exterior school doors will be subject to disciplinary action. Students are not permitted to
open exterior school doors for anyone during school hours, including other students, parents, or visitors. Students who drive on
school campuses must obey all traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits, stop signs, and designated parking areas.
Students who violate the school's traffic regulations will be subject to disciplinary action. Students attending schools that issue
student parking decals/placards must have them properly displayed in the students’ vehicle. Related Offense Code OC-24

Related Procedures: SAF-P007

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 2 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

student consequences will not be provided
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Skipping Class or PowerSchool for repeated offenses.
Leaving Class Without
Permission Range of Consequences: Administrative detention, In School Suspension 1-3 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

Explanation: Willfully refusing to attend and participate in the assigned classroom and/or leaving a classroom without
permission, being out of the area or assigned location from the person in charge.

Related Offense Code: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

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 CATEGORY 3 OFFENSES
An office referral is submitted and is addressed by a school administrator. Parent contact by administrator or
designee is required.

CATEGORY 3 OFFENSE HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Assault of Student2 Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator
reviews PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.

Range of Consequences: Out of School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, for cases involving
injury a remandment to Alternative School is an option (confer with Level Director).

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions,

schedule/classroom change, as necessary.

Explanation: Assault is intentionally causing bodily harm to an individual. Report to proper law enforcement officials if bodily
harm is inflicted.

Related Offense Codes: OC-33 assault of student

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and
within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 3 OFFENSE HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Fighting Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator
reviews PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.

Range of Consequences: Out of School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, for cases involving
injury a remandment to Alternative School is an option (confer with Level Director).

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions S-Team

referral, Positive Behavior Plan, schedule/classroom change, as necessary.

Explanation: Fighting: Mutual participation in an incident involving physical violence, where there is no major injury. Self-
defense is defined as a student who reasonably believes him/herself to be in imminent danger from another student, and uses the
necessary force to protect him/herself. If the victim of force has the opportunity to walk away but chooses to use force in return,
this constitutes retaliation, not self-defense. Report to proper law enforcement officials.

Related Offense Codes: OC-30 (fighting)

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and
within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

2
Student will be reported to appropriate law enforcement officials in addition to school-imposed discipline.

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 CATEGORY HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
3 OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator

Encouraging, Promoting, reviews PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.
Urging or Furthering
Fights. Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not
to exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions,

schedule/classroom change, as necessary.

Explanation: Video, or audio recording, broadcasting or posting of fights is included as a means of encouraging fights.

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and
within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

student consequences will not be provided
3 OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Gangs3 (Display of PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.
Symbols)
Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not
to exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions,

schedule/classroom change, as necessary.

Explanation: The Clarksville-Montgomery County Board of Education is dedicated to preventing the influence and activities
of gangs in the schools. This policy is designed to eliminate or prevent such influence and activities and should be interpreted
in the broadest form permissible to effectuate these purposes. No student shall display or wear gang articles, paraphernalia,
clothing, or symbols.

Definitions: For the purposes of this Code of Conduct, a "gang" is defined as any group or association, whether formal or
informal, which encourages, solicits, promotes, urges, counsels, furthers, advocates, condones, assists, causes, advises, procures,
or abets any illegal or disruptive activity, whether on or off school campuses

School Security Act

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

3
T.C.A. § 49-6-4215

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 CATEGORY 3 OFFENSE HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator

reviews PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.
Leaving School without
Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School
Permission
Suspension not to exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions,

schedule/classroom change, as necessary.

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Lewd or Lascivious PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
Conduct
Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

Explanation: Any obscene exposure of the body or lustful advances toward other students, school employees, or the general
public.
Related Offense Code: OC-24
*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and
within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

student consequences will not be provided
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Other Conduct PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
Warranting
Discipline Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

Explanation: Any conduct which is disruptive, dangerous, harmful to the student or others, not otherwise specifically enumerated
herein. Restitution for damages shall be separate from any disciplinary action. Related Offense Codes: OC-24
*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

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 CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Possession, Selling, or PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.
Distribution of Over-
the-Counter Drugs Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions

schedule/classroom change, as necessary.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and
within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

CATEGORY 3 student consequences will not be provided
MIDDLE SCHOOL
OFFENSE except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Possession or Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Transmission of PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.
Sexually Explicit
Digital or Printed Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
Materials to Include exceed 5 days.
Sexting.
Available Interventions: School Counselor Referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom
change, as necessary.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

Explanation: Possession of any sexually explicit printed materials or sexually explicit digital pictures on any electronic device is
prohibited. Sending, sharing, viewing, or possessing pictures, text messages, emails or other material of a sexual nature in
electronic or any other form on a computer, cell phone or other electronic device is prohibited. Appropriate law enforcement
authorities may be contacted as required by law; in such cases, phones may be confiscated by and reclaimed from local law
enforcement officials. School administration may search and review any and all electronic devices, including cell phones, images,
calls, contacts, texts, internet access, etc., if there is a reasonable suspicion that a search will reveal a violation of school rules.
Students have no expectation of privacy for cell phone use or use of any other electronic devices. Please see the Interrogations
and Searches section for additional information.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

Page 28 of 72
STS-M001
 CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
OFFENSE student consequences will not be provided
MIDDLE SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Repeated Category 2 PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
Offenses
Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change as necessary.

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE student consequences will not be provided
MIDDLE SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff discipline referral. Administrator reviews

Theft 4 PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.

Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

Explanation: Theft of property of the school or property or services of any person on school premises. Possession of stolen
property with the intent to deprive the true owner thereof shall be considered theft. IN ALL CASES, the student shall be required
to pay for the damage if the student has any independent income. If the student has no independent source of income, the parents
of the student shall be required to pay for the theft.

Report to law enforcement officials if theft exceeds $25 or if there is suspicion of chronic theft.

Related Offense Codes: OC-25

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

4
Student will be reported to appropriate law enforcement officials in addition to school-imposed discipline. See T.C.A. § 39-14-103 and 104-

Page 29 of 72
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 CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
student consequences will not be provided
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
Threats
Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

A threat is a statement of an intention to inflict pain, injury, damage, or other hostile action, or transmission of any
communication containing a threat to cause bodily injury or death to another student.

Related Offense Codes: OC-28 (threats)

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
CBD/Tobacco /Vape 5 PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.

Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions.

Explanation: Possessing any type of tobacco products and/or electronic cigarettes (vapor or e-cigarettes) or smoking
paraphernalia on school premises or at any school-sponsored activity as set forth in T.C.A. 39-17-1505. Smoking paraphernalia
includes, but is not limited to, cigarette lighters and matches. Vapor or e-cigarettes, when reported to law enforcement, will
be tested for the presence of THC. A positive presumptive field test for THC (.03 percent or more) is a Zero Tolerance
offense, resulting in a mandatory one-year expulsion.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

5
Student will be reported to appropriate law enforcement officials in addition to school-imposed discipline. See also T.C.A. § 39-17-1505

Page 30 of 72
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 CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
OFFENSE except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Vandalism and PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.
Defacing School
Property Less Than Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
$5006 exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

Explanation: Willfully damaging or destroying property of any other person. IN ALL CASES, the student shall be required
to pay for the damage if the student has any independent sources of income. If the student has no independent source of
income, the parents shall be required to pay for the damage.

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and
within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Verbal Altercation PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
with Peer
Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

Explanation: Loud, argumentative exchange with peer. Anger is evident in at least one party.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

6
Student will be reported to appropriate law enforcement officials in addition to school-imposed discipline. See also T.C.A. § 39-14-408

Page 31 of 72
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 CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Violation of School PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
Rules
Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
exceed 5 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary.

Explanation: This offense comprises misbehavior that violates school policy and is not otherwise covered in the Code of Conduct.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 3 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Vulgar and Profane PowerSchool for repeated offenses.
Language Directed
toward an Adult or Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension not to
Student; exceed 5 days.
Derogatory
Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom
change, as necessary.
Explanation: Using profane, vulgar, or obscene language or gestures.

Related Offense Code: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within the
confines of the Code of Conduct.

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 CATEGORY 4 OFFENSES
An office referral is submitted, and is addressed by a school administrator. Remandment to Alternative School is
mandatory for most Category 4 offenses.

CATEGORY HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

4 OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Activating False PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.
Fire Alarm
Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for 90 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

Explanation: Activating a false fire alarm in any school or district property.

Related Offense Codes: OC-27

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator

7
Alcohol & Other Intoxicating reviews PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.
Substances (Not covered
under Zero Tolerance offense Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for up to 90 days.
of “Drugs.”
Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

Explanation: Applicable if student is found to be in possession of, to be under the influence of, or to have consumed alcohol. Also
applicable if a student is found to be under the influence of any other intoxicating substance not determined not to be an illicit
drug and not covered under the Zero Tolerance offense of “Drugs.” “Under the influence” will be determined by school officials
to include administration, SRO, and/or school nurse. Applicable if the offense occurs on school property, on a school bus, or at
any school event or activity.

Related Offense Codes: OC-23

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

7
Student will be reported to appropriate law enforcement officials in addition to school-imposed discipline. See also T.C.A. § 57-3-412(a)(3)(A)

Page 33 of 72
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 CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Any Item Sold or PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.
Dispensed Under the
Pretense of a Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for 90 days (confer with Level Director).
Controlled
Substance8 Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

Explanation: Any item counterfeit, fake, or represented as a drug for the purpose of selling, dispensing, or sharing with another
person.
*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Arson 9 PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.

Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for 90 days and restitution for damages shall be
made before readmission will be considered.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

Explanation: Starting a fire, implying a fire will be started, or being an accomplice to starting a fire or to implying a fire
will be started on school property.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

8
Student will be reported to appropriate law enforcement officials in addition to school-imposed discipline. See also T.C.A. § 49-6-4002
9
Student will be reported to appropriate law enforcement officials in addition to school-imposed discipline. See also T.C.A. § 39-14-301

Page 34 of 72
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 CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
student consequences will not be provided
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits a discipline referral and completes
Bullying-related acts Bullying and Harassment Reporting Form (INS-F111). Administrator reviews PowerSchool for
(including Cyber- repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
bullying)10 Harassment,
Intimidation, and Hazing Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension to
not exceed 5 days, remandment to Alternative School (confer with Level Director).

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions,

schedule/classroom change, as necessary. If remanded to Alternative School Counselor referral is
required for a student's return to home school.

Explanation: Refer to policy within this document

Related Policies: INS-A016, INS-P029, INS-P030

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator

Gangs (Recruitment) reviews PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.

Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for 90 days.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative
School (required).

Explanation: The Clarksville-Montgomery County Board of Education is dedicated to preventing the influence and activities
of gangs in the schools. This policy is designed to eliminate or prevent such influence and activities and should be interpreted
in the broadest form permissible to effectuate these purposes.

Definitions: For the purposes of this Code of Conduct, a "gang" is defined as any group or association, whether formal or
informal, which encourages, solicits, promotes, urges, counsels, furthers, advocates, condones, assists, causes, advises, procures,
or abets any illegal or disruptive activity, whether on or off school campuses.

Prohibited Activity: No student shall (1) Recruit or solicit membership in any gang or gang related organization. (2) Any student
who urges, encourages, counsels, furthers, promotes, assists, causes, advises, procures, or abets any other student or students
who claim to be a member of a gang to violate any section or paragraph of this policy shall be deemed to have violated that
section or paragraph.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and
within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

10
T.C.A. §49-6-4503, T.C.A. §49-6-4505

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 CATEGORY HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
student consequences will not be provided
4 OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Non-Lethal Firearm Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.

Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for up to 90 days (confer with Level Director).

Available Intervention: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School (required).

Explanation: The weapon involved was another known object (e.g., BB, air, pellet, cap, nerf gun, or other toy gun).

Related Offense Codes: OC-21

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

In accordance with FERPA, information about

CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL
student consequences will not be provided
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Other Conduct PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
Warranting Discipline
Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for up to 90 days (confer with Level Director).

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

Explanation: Any conduct which is disruptive, dangerous, harmful to the student or others, not otherwise specifically enumerated
herein. Restitution for damages shall be separate from any disciplinary action.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Repeated Category 3 PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
Offenses
Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for up to 90 days (confer with Level-Director).

Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School (required).

Related Offense Codes: OC-214

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

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 CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
student consequences will not be provided
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Sexual Harassment PowerSchool for repeated offenses and conducts a thorough investigation. Administrator notifies law
enforcement, as necessary.

Range of Consequences: In School Suspension not to exceed 5 days, Out of School Suspension to not
exceed 5 days, remandment to Alternative School (confer with Level Director).

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral, tiered behavior interventions, schedule/classroom

change, as necessary. If remanded to Alternative School Counselor referral is required for a student's
return to home school.

Explanation: Refer to Policy within this document.

Related Offense Codes OC-43 or OC-44 (sexual harassment) or OC-34 (sexual assault)

Related Policies: STS-A007, STS-P012

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

student consequences will not be provided
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Sexual Intercourse11 PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
on School Property
or at School Events Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for 90 days (confer with Level Director).

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

11
As used in this Code, “Intercourse” is defined as the sexual contact between individuals that involves the genitalia of at least one person.

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 CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator reviews
Threats Toward Any PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.
School System
Employee12 Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for up to 90 days (confer with Level-Director).

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

Explanation: Threat of physical injury against any school system employee.

Related Offense Codes: OC-28

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 4 OFFENSE HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Vandalism and Defacing School Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral.
Property13 (Damage of $500 or more) Administrator reviews PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.

Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for 90 days (confer with Level-
Director).

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative
School (required).

Explanation: Willfully damaging or destroying property of any other person. IN ALL CASES, the student shall be required to pay
for the damage if the student has any independent sources of income. If the student has no independent source of income, the
parents shall be required to pay for the damage.

Related Offense Codes: OC-26

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

12
Student will be reported to appropriate law enforcement officials in addition to school-imposed discipline. See also T.C.A. § 39-13-101 (a)(2)
13
Student will be reported to appropriate law enforcement officials in addition to school-imposed discipline. See also T.C.A. § 39-14-408

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 CATEGORY 4 OFFENSE HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about
MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator

Violation of School Rules reviews PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement, as necessary.

Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for up to 90 days (confer with Level
Director).

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative
School (required).

Explanation: This offense comprises misbehavior that violates school policy and is not otherwise covered in the Code of
Conduct.

Related Offense Codes: OC-24

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

CATEGORY 4 HIGH SCHOOL In accordance with FERPA, information about

OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL student consequences will not be provided
*ELEMENTARY SCHOOL except to the student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator

Weapons and Dangerous reviews PowerSchool for repeated offenses and notifies law enforcement.
Instruments14
Range of Consequences: Remand to Alternative School for 90 days (confer with Level
Director).

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

Explanation:
a. *Being in unauthorized possession of any of the following: live shell or live bullet, slingshot, leaded cane, mace, pepper spray,
or razor blade, (remandment up to 90 days)
b. **Being in unauthorized possession of any of the following: Bowie knife, dirk, dagger, switchblade knife, lock-blade
knife, blackjack, metallic knuckles, box cutter, taser, or any other item of similar description or possession of any knife (90-
day remandment)
c. Using or threatening to use any such weapon or any other sharp pointed or edged instrument or other instruments such as a
chair, bat, tool, or other contrived weapons in order to inflict bodily harm. (90-day remandment)
d. The school system considers firecrackers, snap pops, stink bombs, bottle rockets, or other such devices to be harmful and
disruptive devices, regardless of whether such devices must be ignited in order to activate. Possession of such devices is
absolutely prohibited and will be punished by remandment.
Note: Non-live ammunition is NOT appropriate at school.
*Possession or use of weapons as described in (a) above may result in remandment up to 90 days.

14
Student will be reported to appropriate law enforcement officials in addition to school-imposed discipline. See also T.C.A. § 39-17-1309 and 1302

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**Possession or use of weapons and/or offenses described in (b), (c) and/or (d) above will result in a 90-day remandment.

Related Offense Codes: OC-22

Related Policies: SAF-A003

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

BUS OFFENSES

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 OFFENSE HIGH SCHOOL MIDDLE SCHOOL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

First offense/office First offense/office First and second offense/discipline

referral: Warning and referral: Warning and referral: Warning and parent
parent communication parent communication. communication

Minor Offenses on School

Buses Second Offense: (Middle/High): Transportation recommends one (1) day bus suspension at
Principal discretion.
Category 1 Offenses
(as outlined on TRN-F004) Third Offense: Transportation recommends between two (2) and three (3) day bus suspension, at
Principal discretion. Referral to school counselor.
Category 2 Offenses
(as outlined in TRN-F004) Fourth Offense: Transportation recommends between three (3) and five (5) days bus suspension, at
Principal discretion. Referral to school counselor.

Fifth and following Offenses: Transportation recommends a long term (10 or more days) bus
suspension, at Principal’s discretion. Referral to school counselor.

Explanation: Category 1 offenses are infractions that are considered non-threatening, not harmful or do not violate the safety of
fellow students or the bus driver. Offenses include, but are not limited to, improper boarding/departing procedures, profane
language, horse play, rude or annoying conduct, or unnecessary noise/littering/eating/drinking/taunting. Category 2 offenses do
not warrant a written warning, such as: hanging out of the window, lighting matches, or any open flame, destruction of property,
etc. (TRN-F004). Related Offense Code: OC-24

HIGH SCHOOL
OFFENSE MIDDLE SCHOOL
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Standing or sitting in the aisle of the bus while the bus is moving at travel speed. Transportation
recommends between three (3) and ten (10) day bus suspension at Principal's discretion

Throwing objects in or out of the bus, at the driver, at the windshield or into the driver compartment.
Transportation recommends between three (3) and fifteen (15)
Major Offenses on day bus suspension at Principal’s discretion
School Buses
Inflammatory remarks directed toward or at the driver (profanity, vulgar language, racial slurs).
Transportation recommends between five (5) and fifteen (15) days bus suspension, at Principal’s
discretion. Referral to school counselor.

Fighting on the school bus (non-verbal altercation, physical violence). Transportation recommends
between five (5) and fifteen (15) days bus suspension building level discipline, at Principal’s
discretion. Referral to school counselor as needed.

Explanation: Offenses that jeopardize the safety of students on the bus are taken very seriously. Standing or sitting in the aisle,
throwing objects, inflammatory remarks directed toward or at the driver, and fighting on the bus will result in suspension from
the bus. The number of days within the range are at the Principal's discretion (TRN-F054). Related Offense Code: OC-24

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 ZERO-TOLERANCE OFFENSES
As required by Tennessee law and CMCSS policy, a student shall be considered in violation of a zero-tolerance offense and
shall be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year from the time of the incident for any of the following:

1. A student brings to school or is in unauthorized possession on school property of a firearm as defined in 18

U.S.C.§921;
2. A student commits aggravated assault as defined in T.C.A. §39-13-102 upon a teacher, administrator, other
employee of a local education agency, school resource officer, or student or commits an assault that results in bodily
injury as defined in T.C.A. §39-13-101(a) upon a teacher, principal, administrator, or any other employee of a local
education agency, or school resource officer;
3. A student unlawfully possesses, uses, or distributes/transfers any drug or substance which is illegal for the student to
possess or use pursuant to any local, state, or federal law (other than alcohol or tobacco products), to include but is
not limited to, any controlled substance as defined in T.C.A.§39-17-402 through §39-17-415, controlled substance
analogue as defined by T.C.A. §39-17-454, or legend drug as defined by T.C.A.§53-10-101, on school grounds or at
a school-sponsored event;
4. A student is in possession of or under the influence of a drug or substance which is illegal for the student to possess
or use under local, state or federal law and/or if the substance/item possessed or used contains THC; and
5. A student communicates a credible threat to cause bodily injury or death to another student or to a school employee.
or threatens mass violence on school property or at a school-related activity pursuant to §39-16-517

See specific explanations below. The Director of Schools may modify this zero-tolerance expulsions on a case-by-case
basis. Nothing in this section shall be construed to require or prohibit the assignment of such students to an alternative
school. See T.C.A. § 49-6-4202(2) for additional information. NOTE: Zero Tolerance students are not allowed to
participate in any school activities, to include graduation exercises.

ZERO TOLERANCE In accordance with FERPA, information about student consequences will not be provided except to the
student’s parent or legal guardian.

Mandatory calendar year expulsion from the time of the incident, unless modified by the
Director of Schools.
Aggravated Assault of
Teacher, Staff, SRO, or
Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator notifies
Student.15
law enforcement.

Range of Consequences: Mandatory calendar year expulsion from the time of the incident, unless
modified by the Director of Schools.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

Explanation: A student commits aggravated assault who intentionally or knowingly commits an assault as set forth in the statutes
noted above, and the assault results in serious bodily injury as defined in T.C.A. §39-11-106(a)(37) or death of teacher or staff,
LEA employee, SRO or student, or involves the use or display of a deadly weapon, or involves strangulation or attempted
strangulation.

Related Offense Codes: OC-35

Related Policies: None.

15
T.C.A. § 39-13-102(a)

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 If any of these offenses occur on school property, on a school bus, or at any school event or activity it is considered ZERO
TOLERANCE.
School Security Act

*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within the
confines of the Code of Conduct.

ZERO TOLERANCE In accordance with FERPA, information about student consequences will not be provided except to the
student’s parent or legal guardian.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator notifies
Assault of Teacher, law enforcement.
Staff,16or SRO.
Range of Consequences: Mandatory calendar year expulsion from the time of the incident, unless
modified by the Director of Schools.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

Explanation: A student commits assault who: (1) Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly causes bodily injury as defined in T.C.A. §
39-11-106(a)(3) to a teacher, staff or SRO; (2) Intentionally or knowingly causes a teacher, staff to reasonably fear imminent
bodily injury; or (3) Intentionally or knowingly causes physical contact with a teacher, staff, or SRO that is extremely offensive or
provocative.

Related Offense Codes: OC-32

Related Policies: None.

If any of these offenses occur on school property, on a school bus, or at any school event or activity it is considered ZERO
TOLERANCE.
*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and
within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

ZERO TOLERANCE In accordance with FERPA, information about student consequences will not be provided except to the
student’s parent or legal guardian.

Threats of Mass Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits discipline referral. Administrator notifies
Violence17 and Bomb law enforcement.
Threats.
Range of Consequences: Mandatory calendar year expulsion from the time of the incident, unless
modified by the Director of Schools.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School
(required).

Explanation: When a student threatens mass violence on school property or at a school-related or sponsored activity wherein
“mass violence” means any act which a reasonable person would conclude could lead to the serious bodily injury, as defined in
T.C.A §39-16-517, or the death of two (2) or more persons. A bomb threat means to intentionally make a false report of potential
harm from a bomb, dynamite, explosive, or arson-causing device.
Related Offense Codes: OC- 27 (bomb threat) and OC-28 and OC-50 (threat of mass violence)

16
T.C.A. § 39-13-101(a)
17
T.C.A. §39-16-517

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 *Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and
within the confines of the Code of Conduct.

ZERO TOLERANCE In accordance with FERPA, information about student consequences will not be provided except to the
student’s parent or legal guardian.

Drugs

Possession of or being under the influence of marijuana or any substance that has a positive presumptive field test for THC, any
controlled substance, synthetic drug, or drug paraphernalia as defined under Tennessee or Federal law OR selling, buying or trying
to sell/buy, marijuana, synthetic drugs, or any controlled substance as defined under Tennessee or Federal law or any sale or
dispensation of any prescription drugs, or the possession of any prescription drugs not prescribed for the individual.

Prescription Drugs: Any drug that requires a prescription to obtain If any of these offenses occur on school property, on a school
bus, or at any school event or activity it is considered ZERO TOLERANCE and requires a mandatory one calendar year
expulsion.

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits office referral. Administrator notifies law enforcement.

Range of Consequences: Mandatory calendar year expulsion from the time of the incident, unless modified by the Director of
Schools.

Available Interventions: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School (required).

School Security Act

Related Offense Codes: OC-17

Related Policies: None.
*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

ZERO TOLERANCE In accordance with FERPA, information about student consequences will not be provided except to the
student’s parent or legal guardian.

Firearms

Possession of any firearm as defined in 18 U.S.C. §921 as well as a shotgun, rifle, pistol, dynamite cartridge, bomb, grenade,
mine, or explosive device is a zero-tolerance offense, which requires a mandatory one calendar year expulsion.
Restitution for damages shall not be a part of any disciplinary action18

Required: Parent/Guardian contact, teacher or staff submits office referral. Administrator notifies law enforcement.
Range of Consequences: Mandatory calendar year expulsion from the time of the incident, unless modified by the Director of
Schools.
Available Intervention: School Counselor referral for student’s return from Alternative School (required).

Related Offense Codes: OC-18, OC-19

18
T.C.A. § 49-6-3401

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 Related Policies: None.
*Any discipline administered with principal discretion must be developmentally appropriate for age of student and within
the confines of the Code of Conduct.

BULLYING-RELATED ACTS
Reference: INS-A016 – Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying and Hazing Policy

Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (CMCSS) prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation, bullying, and hazing by
students, district personnel, and volunteers or other third parties in the school environment such as vendors/contractors. In this
policy, “bullying-related” includes and is defined as any of these acts. This includes bullying or harassment based on a
disability and other basis protected under statutes enforced by the Office of Civil Rights. A safe and respectful environment in
school is necessary for students to learn and achieve.

Not all inappropriate behaviors are bullying-related acts. The CMCSS Code of Conduct will be referenced to distinguish
between bullying, harassment, and other forms of inappropriate behaviors (i.e. vulgar and profane language, lewd or
lascivious conduct, assault and fighting, disruptive or boisterous conduct).

Bullying-related acts, like other disruptive or violent behavior, interfere with a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability
to educate students in a safe and orderly environment. Since students learn by example, district personnel and volunteers
should be positive role models in demonstrating appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to
tolerate bullying-related acts. Students are expected to demonstrate appropriate behavior, treat others with civility and respect,
and refuse to tolerate bullying-related acts. The provisions of this policy are published in the Student Code of Conduct,
Employee Handbook, and district website.

Prohibited Acts Defined:

Harassment, intimidation, and bullying means any conduct that is sufficiently serious to interfere with or limit a student’s
ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or opportunities offered by the school system:

A. 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 that has the effect of:
1. physically harming a student or damaging a student’s property;
2. knowingly placing a student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student(s) or damage
to the student’s or students’ property; or
3. causing emotional distress to a student or students or
4. creating a hostile educational environment; or

B. if the act takes place off school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity, 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 educational environment or learning process.

Bullying Defined:
To distinguish bullying-related acts from other inappropriate behaviors, CMCSS defines bullying as:

a. harm occurs through an intentional act; and

b. a power imbalance exists; and
c. the accused enjoys carrying out the action; and
d. the accused repeats the behavior, often in a systematic way; and
e. the target has a sense of being persecuted or oppressed and is hurt physically and/or psychologically.

Bullying-related acts may include:

• Actions of engaging in reprisal or retaliation against any person who reports, who is a target of, or
witness to a bullying-related act, or any person with reliable information about a bullying-related act; or

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 • Actions in which one falsely accuses another of having committed a bullying-related act as a means of
reprisal or retaliation or as a means of a bullying-related act.

Bullying encompasses cyber-bullying that creates a hostile educational environment or otherwise creating a substantial
disruption to the educational environment or learning process. Cyber-bullying includes, but is not limited to, the use of
information and communication technologies, such as e-mail, cell phone text or picture messages, instant messaging, and
defamatory personal websites, social networking sites, and online personal polling sites – to support deliberate, hostile
behavior intended to frighten or harm others.

Hazing Defined:
Hazing is any intentional or reckless act, on or off school system property, by one student acting alone or with others, directed
against any other student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of that student or that induces or coerces a
student to endanger that 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.

EDUCATION, AWARENESS, AND INTERVENTION

The district will conduct annual staff training on its policies and procedures related to bullying-related acts. The district will
provide students and parents/legal guardians information on its policies, procedures, and prevention programs related to
bullying-related acts. Additional resources may be made available to staff, students, and parents to promote awareness of
the harmful effects of bullying-related behavior and to offer prevention strategies.

Reporting:
Students are expected to report incidents of bullying-related acts to any administrator, teacher, school resource officer,
counselor, or other school/district personnel.

Parents or other district stakeholders who have knowledge of such acts are encouraged to communicate this to school
personnel immediately.

CMCSS employees are required to report incidents of possible bullying-related acts to administrators.

An individual may make an anonymous report; however, no formal disciplinary action may be taken against the accused
solely on the basis of any anonymous report. However, an investigation of an anonymous report will be conducted.

Pursuant to T.C.A. § 49-6-4002, a school employee, student or volunteer who witnesses or has reliable information that a
student has transmitted by an electronic device any communication containing a credible threat to cause bodily injury or death
to another student shall report such information to the appropriate school official. Such school official shall make a
determination regarding the administration of the report.

Individuals making a report of harassment, intimidation, hazing, or bullying should not define students involved in a sexual
manner or impugn the character of any student based on allegations of sexual promiscuity.

Consequences:
Consequences for a student involved in bullying-related acts range from behavioral interventions to disciplinary actions.
District personnel and volunteers, who engage in bullying-related acts, are subject to disciplinary actions, up to and including
termination of employment. In addition, hazing may be a crime prosecutable under the criminal laws of the State of
Tennessee.

The following factors will be considered in determining the consequences and appropriate remedial action for bullying-
related acts:
• The developmental level and maturity levels of the parties involved;
• The levels of harm as determined by the student’s ability to be educated in a safe and orderly environment;
• The surrounding circumstances;

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 • The nature of the behavior(s) (refer to CMCSS definition);
• Past incidences or continuing patterns of behavior;
• The relationships between the parties involved; and
• The context in which the alleged incidents occurred.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL ABUSE (EMPLOYEES, ADULTS AND STUDENTS)

Reference:

STS-A007 – Sexual Harassment Policy (Students)

STS-P012 – Reporting Procedure for Students Subject to Sexual Harassment

Introduction:*
Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination, which violates Section 703 of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as
amended, 42 U.S.C. 2000e, et seq. and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. Sexual abuse is a crime prosecutable
under the criminal laws of the State of Tennessee.

* In the event of a mid-year revision to federal or state law as it relates to sexual harassment, the Sexual Harassment Policy (Students)
(STS-A007) and Reporting Procedure for Students Subject to Sexual Harassment (STS-P012) will reflect the most current version.

Sexual Harassment:
It is the policy of Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (District) to maintain a learning and working environment
that is free from sexual harassment as defined herein. The District prohibits and does not tolerate any and all forms of sexual
harassment and discrimination, including sexual violence. It shall be a violation of District policy for any student or employee
of this District to harass a student, employee, or third-party vendor/contractor/volunteer through conduct or communication of
a sexual nature as defined by this policy. It shall also be a violation of District policy for any District employee to tolerate
sexual harassment as defined herein by a student, employee, third-party vendor/contractor, or third-party volunteer assisting,
observing or otherwise engaging in sanctioned District activities subject to the control and supervision of the District.

The District will act promptly to investigate all complaints of sexual harassment, formal or informal, verbal or written; to
promptly take appropriate action to protect individuals who may have been sexually harassed; and if it determines that
unlawful sexual harassment occurred, to promptly and appropriately discipline any student or employee who is found to have
violated this policy and/or take other appropriate action reasonably calculated to end the sexual harassment.

Sexual Harassment Defined:

In summary, with respect to students, sexual harassment is defined as conduct on the basis of sex occurring on District
property or at a sanctioned District activity (whether on or off District property) subject to the control and supervision of the
District and satisfying one or more of the following:
a. A District employee conditioning an aid, benefit, or service of an education program or activity on a
student’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct;
b. Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively
offensive that it effectively denies a student equal access to the education program or activity; Or
c. Sexual assault as defined in 20 U.S.C.§1092(f)(6)(A)(v), dating violence as defined in 34
U.S.C.§12291(a)(10), domestic violence as defined in 34 U.S.C.§12291(a)(8), or stalking as defined in
34 U.S.C. §12291(a)(30).

Included in the above definition of sexual harassment is sexual violence and sexual misconduct. Sexual violence refers to
physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person’s will or where a person is incapable of giving consent, e.g. due to the
person’s age or intellectual or other disability prevents the student form having the capacity to give consent. Examples of
sexual violence include rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, and sexual coercion. Sexual misconduct refers to the unwanted
intentional touching of the genitals or intimate parts, including the breasts, genital area, groin, inner thighs, and buttocks, or
the clothing covering them.

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Reporting Procedures for Sexual Harassment Only:
The District encourages any student who believes that she/he has been subjected to sexual harassment by a District employee,
student, or third party in the school environment, or any student with knowledge or belief of conduct which may constitute
sexual harassment against a student within the District or its sponsored activities should report the alleged acts immediately to
the student’s School’s Title IX Coordinator/Assistant Principal, or if not available, to the Principal or other District official
such as a teacher, counselor, or school resource officer (SRO). Any District employee or SRO receiving a report of sexual
harassment from or regarding a student shall report the complaint to the School Title IX Coordinator/Assistant Principal or
his/her designee.

Each School Title IX Coordinator/Assistant Principal may be contacted at the address and/or telephone number listed on the
District School Directory as provided on the website or as indicated in the public record, i.e., telephone directory or directory
assistance.
See STS-A007 and STS-P012 for a complete copy of the District’s sexual harassment policy (Student) and reporting
procedure for students subject to sexual harassment.

If the complaint involves the Building Principal, the complaint shall be filed directly with the Human Rights Officer located
at Central Office. The Chief Human Resources Officer is designated as the District’s Human Rights Officer to receive reports
or complaints of sexual harassment from the building principals who receive reports or complaints of sexual harassment from
a student making a report of sexual harassment as to an employee or third-party contractor or from any employee or
individual making a report of sexual harassment as to an employee, student, or third-party contractor. If the complaint
involves the Human Rights Officer, the complaint shall be filed directly with the Director of Schools.

The Human Rights Officer and/or Director of Schools may be reached at:

Chief Human Resources Officer/Designee

Clarksville-Montgomery County School System
621 Gracey Avenue
Clarksville, TN 37040
Main No. (931) 648-5600
Main No. (931) 920-7913
[email protected]

Director of Schools/Designee
Clarksville-Montgomery County School System
621 Gracey Avenue
Clarksville, TN 37040
Direct No. (931) 648-5600
Direct No. (931) 920-7808 OR 7809

Discipline:
Any action taken pursuant to this policy will be consistent with requirements of applicable Tennessee statutes and District
policies. The District will take such disciplinary action it deems necessary and appropriate to end sexual harassment and
prevent its recurrence.

Sexual Abuse:
Sexual abuse must be reported immediately to the Department of Children Services T.C.A. §37-1-605. The Clarksville-
Montgomery County School System and its employees have a legal duty to cooperate with Department of Children Services’
investigations. School employees will not notify parent(s) or guardian(s) of visits to the school from DCS personnel or Law
Enforcement personnel related to a DCS action nor will they release any information regarding DCS inquiries, interviews, or

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investigations to parent(s) or guardian(s). DCS personnel will make such notifications at the time and in the detail as
determined by their protocols.

Sexual Abuse Defined:

Sexual abuse may include, but is not limited to:
a) Inappropriate patting or pinching;
b) Any sexually motivated unwelcome touching, if person is under the legal age of consent.
c) Any penetration of the vagina, anus, or mouth of a person with the sex organ of another, a finger or an
object, by force, coercion or if person is under the legal age of consent.

Reporting Procedures for Sexual Abuse Only:

Pursuant to Tennessee law, any person who knows or has reasonable ground to believe sexual abuse has occurred, either on
or off campus, shall report it immediately to the local office of the department responsible for the investigation of reports
made pursuant to this section or to the judge having juvenile jurisdiction or to the office of the sheriff or the chief law
enforcement official of the municipality where the child resides. (T.C.A. §37-1-605).

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE

CMCSS is committed to ensuring that no qualified individuals with disabilities are, because of disability, excluded from
participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to discrimination under any service, program or activity
conducted by or on behalf of CMCSS.

This grievance procedure is established to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). It
may be used by anyone who wishes to file a complaint alleging discrimination on the basis of disability in the provision of
services, activities, programs, or benefits by CMCSS. CMCSS has a separate procedure, which governs employment- related
complaints of disability discrimination.

The complaint should be in writing and contain information about the alleged discrimination such as name, address, phone
number of the complainant and the location, date and description of the alleged problem. Upon request, alternative means of
filing complaints will be made available for persons with disabilities.

The complaint should be submitted by the complainant as soon as possible but no later than 60 calendar days after the
alleged violation to the Chief Human Resources Officer.

The Chief Human Resources Officer has been designated by the school system as the person responsible for coordinating the
system’s efforts to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Chief Human Resources Officer

Clarksville-Montgomery County School System
621 Gracey Avenue
Clarksville, TN 37040
Main Switchboard: (931) 648-5600 / Direct Number: (931) 920-7913
[email protected]

Within 20 calendar days after receipt of the complaint (excluding District holidays and breaks), the CHRO or his/her designee
will meet with the complainant to discuss the complaint and the possible resolutions. Within 20 calendar days of the meeting
(excluding District holidays and breaks), the CHRO or her designee will respond in writing and explain CMCSS’ position
and offer options for resolution.

If the response by the CHRO or his/her designee does not satisfactorily resolve the issue, the complainant may appeal the
decision within 15 calendar days after receipt of the response of the CHRO or his/her designee. Within 15 calendar days after
receipt of the appeal (excluding District holidays and breaks), the Director of Schools or his/her designee will meet with the
complainant to discuss the complaint and possible resolutions. Within 15 calendar days after the meeting (excluding District
holidays or breaks), the Director of Schools or a designee will respond in writing with a final resolution of the complaint.

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All written complaints received and responses made under this procedure will be retained by CMCSS for at least three (3)
years.

Legal Reference:
Public Law 110-325; 42 U.S.C. 126, Section 12101.

NON-DISCRIMINATION

Reference: HUM-A084 – Non-Discrimination Policy

It is the policy of Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (CMCSS) not to discriminate against any student,
employee, or applicant on the basis of sex, marital status, race, color, creed, national origin, age, religion, genetic information,
sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability condition. CMCSS will ensure that no student will be excluded from
participating in or having access to any course offerings, student athletics, counseling services, employment assistance,
extracurricular activities, or other school resources based on unlawful discrimination. CMCSS will take all necessary steps to
ensure that each employee’s work environment is free of unlawful discrimination. No office, administrator, or employee of
CMCSS including all persons representing CMCSS, shall intimidate, threaten, harass, coerce, discriminate against, or commit
or seek reprisal against anyone who participates in any aspect of the discrimination complaint process associated with this
policy.

Please submit inquiries or complaints associated with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or Title IX of the
Education Amendments Act of 1972 (as they relate to employees) to:

Chief Human Resources Officer or designee

Melissa Izatt
621 Gracey Avenue
Clarksville, TN 37040
931-920-7913

Please submit inquiries or complaints associated with Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 (as they
relate to students) to:

Chief of Staff or designee

621 Gracey Avenue
Clarksville, TN 37040
931-920-7808

Please submit inquiries or complaints associated with Section 504 to:

District Section 504 Coordinator or designee

Jami Skevington
1312 Highway 48/13
Clarksville, TN 37040
931-920-7953

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 DANGEROUS WEAPONS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY

Reference: SAF-A003 – Weapon Free Schools Policy

Weapons on school property are prohibited, except under circumstances explicitly allowed by law or this policy. Any
unauthorized weapons found on a person, within an automobile, or any other manner upon school district property will be
confiscated and may be reported to law enforcement authorities.

Weapons are defined as any item or replica of an item designed or used for inflicting bodily harm or physical damage.

Law enforcement officers may possess weapons on school district property in alignment with their official duties.

The only time possession of a weapon upon school district property is considered “authorized” by CMCSS policy is if such
possession is in furtherance of the academic program of the school system and occurs with the express permission of school
authorities. As an example, authorization may be given for possession and use of such weapons in the JROTC program, for
marksmanship or hunter safety courses, or as part of an academic presentation in history or other classes.

Employees violating this policy may be subject to criminal prosecution to the fullest extent of the law, disciplinary actions,
and dismissal in accordance with CMCSS policies. Students violating this policy may be subject to criminal prosecution to
the fullest extent of the law and may be subject to criminal prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.

CMCSS retains authority to conduct routine patrols of parking lots and unannounced inspections of interiors of automobiles
on school property. Searches of such automobiles will be conducted in accordance with state law. Dogs, metal detectors,
and/or other devices may be used in conducting such searches.

CONTRABAND ON SCHOOL PROPERTY (Including School Buses)

In addition, school officials who find any other contraband materials upon the school premises will immediately report the
same to appropriate law enforcement authorities. Persons who bring such material upon school premises, whether students or not, are
subject to prosecution in accordance with state law.

As used herein, "contraband" includes all substances or materials, the presence of which is prohibited by school
policy or state law, including, but not limited to, controlled substances, drugs, alcoholic beverages, legal products
which are misused or possessed for illegal purposes (i.e. glue or petroleum products misused for inhalation, abused
or misused prescription medications, etc.) and stolen property. As used herein, a "weapon" is a gun, shotgun, rifle,
pistol, or other type of firearm as defined by 18 U.S.C. §921, taser, stun gun, dynamite cartridge, bomb, grenade,
mine, explosive device or weapon, live shell or bullet, Bowie knife, hawk bill knife, ice pick, dirk, dagger, slingshot,
leaded cane, switchblade knife, locked blade knife, blackjack, metallic knuckles, mace, a knife or any other item of
similar description, to include those listed in T.C.A. § 39-17-1302.

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION

Reference: TRN-A003 – Student Transportation Policy

State law requires that school bus transportation be available to all students who live more than one and a half (1 ½) miles
from the school they are zoned to attend (T.C.A. § 49-6-2101).

In Montgomery County, school bus transportation may be available to all students residing in Montgomery County who live
more than:
a) 1 mile for elementary students
b) 1 ½ miles for middle and high school students.
c) As required by a Special Needs IEP or a Section 504 Plan

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A student can have only one bus and one bus stop (i.e., a student cannot be picked up at one bus stop in the mornings, and
dropped off at a different bus stop in the afternoons). If the bus stop is a day care center, the daycare center must be located
within the school zone.

STUDENT CONDUCT ON SCHOOL BUSES

Reference: TRN-P013 - Student Bus Conduct Discipline Procedure

Profanity, smoking, vaping, chewing or dipping tobacco products, threatening a driver or fellow students, alcohol, controlled
substances (drugs), drug paraphernalia, damaging property or misuse of cell phones on the bus are prohibited
Weapons are prohibited. Weapons are defined as any item or replica of an item designed or used for inflicting bodily harm or
physical damage including but not limited to aerosol sprays, pepper spray, etc.

Cell phones or electronic devices cannot be used for photos, videos, social media, air drops, or sharing inappropriate
materials.

Students using headphones or earbuds must leave one ear unobstructed to allow for bus driver communication to maintain
safety on the bus. Hats, caps, and hoods are allowed on the school bus. All other types of headgear are prohibited.
Disciplinary action will be taken by the student's principal based upon the principal's discretion and/or administrative policy.

Students shall become ineligible for transportation when their behavior is such as to cause dissension on a school bus, or
when they disobey state or local rules and regulations pertaining to pupil transportation and/or his/her behavior pose a threat
to the health and safety of the other occupants and passengers.

Unnecessary and wanton damage to a school bus by a student will result in that student being ineligible for transportation in
addition to any other disciplinary measures. The student will become eligible again when payment is made for damage.

Student-Parent Information:
Any student or parent, who makes a request for reinstatement for students with a long-term bus suspension, must do the
following:
1. Parents must request a meeting with the principal, bus driver, Transportation Manager or Designee,
parent and student. If an agreement is reached for reinstatement, the agreement must be put in writing with
all parties’ signatures. School officials will determine the requirements of the reinstatement.

2. At the principal’s discretion, he or she may know of circumstances that may warrant a student’s
reinstatement. If an agreement is reached, a conference call must be made to the Transportation Manager
informing him/her of the reason for reinstatement. The student will be reinstated and parents given special
conditions in writing. The Transportation Manager will inform the driver of the student’s reinstatement.

Video Surveillance:
Reference: TRN-A007 – Video Surveillance of School Buses Policy

The Clarksville-Montgomery County School System installs video or digital camera recorders on all school buses. The
video recordings are erased periodically as determined by the recording equipment’s capabilities/capacity.

When there is an alleged disciplinary problem, or other allegations are made against a student or an employee, the video
evidence will be removed and reviewed by the Transportation Manager or a School System Administrator or their designee.
All video evidence that is used in an investigation, disciplinary proceeding, or litigation will be maintained for a period of one
to 20 years following the conclusion of the incident.

In order to preserve the reasonable expectation of privacy of employees and students, all video evidence will be treated as a
confidential record and may not be used or viewed for any purposes other than those stated above. Video surveillance on

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buses will be used as a tool to monitor student conduct. School System Administrator and Transportation Manager will
determine who may view video evidence as per CMCSS policy.

SECURING CARRY-ON ITEMS ON SCHOOL BUSES

Reference: TRN-A018 Securing Carry-On Items on School Buses

Aisles and emergency exits in school buses, school chartered buses, and multifunction school activity buses will be kept clear
at all times.

Regularly scheduled bus routes (to and from school transportation)

1. Items will not occupy the space for another child.

2. Items can be held in the lap but will not extend above the back of the seat in front of them.
3. Items can be placed on the floor between the student’s legs and will not extend above the back of
the seat in front of them.
4. Items will not be placed underneath seats, in the driver compartment area, blocking emergency
exits, or blocking the main entrance way.

Additionally, flags with staffs (flagpoles), baseball bats, and JROTC dummy weapons will not be carried on school
buses.
STUDENT ATTENDANCE

Reference: STS-P010 Progressive Truancy Intervention Plan Procedure

The attendance policy applies to all students K-12. Suspensions are counted as unexcused absences.

The Compulsory School Attendance Law in Tennessee (T.C.A. § 49-6-3001) requires children (ages 6-17 inclusive) to attend
school each day. A student who has been absent five (5) days (this means an aggregate of five days during the school year and
not necessarily five consecutive days) without adequate excuse is considered truant and may be summoned to court for as few
as 5 absences (T.C.A. § 49-6-3007).

The following are “official/adequate excuses” that should be turned in to the attendance secretary in the school office:
● parent note (up to 5 days excused for any reason)
● medical note (doctor, dentist, hospital, etc.)
● court note
● funeral notice (newspaper/program from the funeral home)
● military deployment paperwork-for military dependents:
o TN Law (T.C.A. § 49-6-3019) allows the following for out of country deployments: 1 excused
absence when the parent leaves for deployment twelve (12) months or longer
o 1 excused absence when the parent returns at the end of deployment
o Up to 10 days excused absences when the parent is home from the deployment for rest and
recuperation leave
o Local policy allows up to five (5) consecutive days of excused absences (either before or after
the deployment) when the parent deployment is less than 12 months
o Military paperwork/documentation MUST be provided to the school for these to be excused.

To be excused, notes must be provided by the parent or legal guardian, and received by the school within five (5) school days of the
absence. Notes may be emailed to the school’s Attendance Secretary. When a student reaches 5 unexcused absences, the school must
meet with the parent and student to sign an Attendance Contract. If the student continues to miss, the school district will offer a
Truancy Intervention. Failure to comply with any level in the process or missing continued unexcused absences, may result in a
petition to Truancy Court.

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For high school and middle school classes, an absence per class is defined as missing 10 or more minutes of the class period.

Make-up work: (Including suspension and remandment) Upon the first day of returning to school, it is the student’s
responsibility to make contact with the teacher(s) regarding make-up work. During the school year, make-up work must be
completed within a number of days equal to the number of consecutive days of the absences. A grade of “0” shall be entered
into the teacher’s grade book for any missing work until the assignments have been completed and turned in.

STUDENT DRESS CODE

The Clarksville-Montgomery County School Board believes that proper etiquette, social customs, and good grooming are part
of the educational process. While parents should exercise the primary authority in determining what appropriate dress is and
grooming for their children in accordance with their age and grade, it is the responsibility of the school system to work with
parents in encouraging students to assume this responsibility and to execute it sensibly as they mature. It is also the
responsibility of the school system to provide an educational atmosphere conducive to learning.

The dress code is designed to ensure the health and safety of students and to avoid distractions to the educational process,
while preserving the basic rights of individuals. The following guidelines must be followed:

1. Attire must not be destructive to school property (i.e. body chains, spikes).
2. Dress must comply with the health and safety codes, regulations, and recommendations of the State of Tennessee
and federal health agencies.
3. Dress or appearance must not interfere with the educational process or the rights of others.
a. Hats, caps, hoods, and distracting headwear are prohibited inside buildings during school hours.
b. Sunglasses are prohibited inside buildings unless prescribed.
c. Bare midriffs, see-through garments, undergarment type shirts, bare backs, halter tops, low-cut blouses
and pants, mini-skirts, tank tops, cut-offs, and pajama pants are prohibited.
d. Shorts, in appropriate lengths and materials, are permitted in grades K-12. No spandex or brief type
shorts are permitted.
e. Leggings are permissible as long as they are not see-through.
f. Skirts and dresses must be longer than mid-thigh.
g. Obscene, profane, provocative, violent, or inflammatory words or pictures on body/skin, clothing or
jewelry, or clothing advertising alcoholic beverages, drugs, drug paraphernalia or tobacco products are
prohibited.
h. Students in grades 6-12 are prohibited from wearing, while on school property or at any school-
sponsored activity, any type of clothing, apparel, or accessory, which denotes such students’
membership in or affiliation with any gang (T.C.A. § 49-6-4215).
i. Extremely low-riding pants are not allowed because they are a safety hazard. "Sagging" is not permitted.
j. Body piercings shall not distract from the instructional process.
k. Jewelry ornaments or accessories which distract from the educational process or which present a safety
concern will not be allowed (i.e. grills).
l. Clothes worn with holes above mid-thigh must have a garment worn beneath them.
m. Standard footwear including shoes, boots, athletic shoes, or sandals must be worn. House shoes or skate
shoes will not be allowed.

NOTE: Individual schools will assume responsibility for determining compliance with the dress code for ruling on specific items of
clothing and general appearance for reasons of safety and health, or for the order, well-being, and general welfare of students.

Additionally, existing laws and/or school regulations require the wearing of protective clothing, eye shields or other dress for
the health or safety of students participating in certain activities. Each school will notify students of these rules. Students
failing to comply with the dress code shall be required to make immediate arrangements for appropriate clothing. Refusal to
make such arrangements shall result in suspension for one school day for the first offense and up to 10 days for repeated
violation.

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 RULES OF BEHAVIOR FOR STUDENT ATHLETES

The Clarksville-Montgomery County School System considers participation in interscholastic athletics a privilege afforded to
students by the district. Therefore, participation in athletics is not protected by due process appeals procedures related to
student discipline that are afforded to all students under state law. Students participating in athletics are expected to
demonstrate responsible behavior and high ethical standards at all times. Negative or inappropriate behavior by athletes
during the school year, during out-of-school periods and during non-school hours can affect other students’ perception of the
integrity of an athletic program as well as the public’s perception of the ethical standards established by the school for all
students. The Rules of Behavior for Student Athletes apply to all students participating in interscholastic athletics and apply
during the school year (on and off school property) and during the non-school term. The following rules are in addition to the
rules and regulations outlined in the CMCSS Student Code of Conduct, which governs the behavior of all students at the
school.

Athletic penalties and sanctions apply to conduct that violates ethical standards and reflects negatively upon the athletic
program or the school. The penalties apply to school-related conduct that violates the Student Code of Conduct or that
generally falls below the ethical (e.g., other actions prohibited by law) standards of the school or athletic program. The
penalties also apply year-round to any off campus conduct that has become public through reports in the media; through direct
observation by the principal (or assistant principal) or the District’s or school’s athletic staff; or through reports to the
principal or athletic staff by other school personnel, students, parents and members of the public. All alleged violations that
are reported to the principal (or assistant principal) or athletic staff will be investigated by the coach, as the circumstances
require. The results of the investigation, as well as the penalty, if any, shall be reported to the student, his/her parents or
guardians, the principal, and CMCSS Activities Coordinator.

INTERROGATIONS AND SEARCHES

Reference: School Searches of Student Cell Phones and/or Electronic Devices (SAF-A009)

I. Interrogations:

A. Interrogations by School Personnel: School officials may question students at any time regarding
suspected violations of school policies or State laws by the student or others. A student’s failure to answer
and otherwise cooperate may be grounds for further disciplinary action.
B. Interrogations by Law Enforcement Personnel: Interrogations of pupils by law enforcement officers, who
show proper identification, will be permitted during the school day only when non-school hours are
impossible, impractical, or would unduly interfere with law enforcement. Efforts should be made to
notify the parent, guardian, or other adult person having the care and custody of the child. In the event
that an interrogation of a minor is conducted on the school premises, the principal or his/her
representative must be present.

II. Searches and Seizures:19

A. Introduction:
To maintain order and discipline in the schools and to protect the safety and welfare of students and school
personnel, students are subject to reasonable searches and seizures. School administrators or their designees
are empowered to conduct reasonable searches of students and school property when there is reasonable
suspicion to believe that students may be in possession of drugs, drug paraphernalia, weapons, alcohol, stolen
property and other material (contraband) in violation of school policy or state law. Lockers, storage areas,
containers, packages, and vehicles are subject to search. School property shall remain under the control of
school officials, and shall be subject to search. School authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized, or
contraband materials discovered in the search. As used in this policy, the term "unauthorized" means any item

19
T.C.A. § 49-6-4204

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 dangerous to the health or safety of students or school personnel, or disruptive of any lawful function, mission
or process of the school, or any item described as unauthorized in school rules available beforehand to the
student.

"Contraband" is all substances or materials, the presence of which is prohibited by school policy or state law,
including but not limited to, controlled substances, drugs, alcohol or alcoholic beverages, glue that could be
abused or aerosol paint, guns, knives, weapons, incendiary devices, and stolen property. A student’s failure to
comply with searches and seizures as provided in this policy will be considered grounds for disciplinary
action.

B. Personal Searches:20
The person of a student or visitor and his/her personal effects (e.g. purse, book bag, etc.) may be searched
whenever a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe that the person is in possession of illegal,
unauthorized, or contraband materials. "Reasonable Suspicion" is the standard for a search on school property
or at school related events by a school administrator or their designee. It is based on the school official’s
specific reasonable inferences, which he or she is entitled to, drawn from the facts in light of the school
official’s experience. Specific reasonable inferences may be drawn from instances including, but not limited
to: a tip from a reliable student, suspicious behavior which suggests that contraband is present, a smell
indicating the presence of contraband, or a bulge in a pocket, etc. Reasonable suspicion should not be based
on mere hunch but rather should take into consideration the child’s age, history and school record, the
prevalence and seriousness of the problem in the school to which the search is directed, the exigencies in
making a search without delay and further investigation, the probative value and reliability of the information
used as a justification for the search, the particular teacher or school official’s experience with the student, and
the experience of the involved school officials with the type of problem to which the search was directed.21

If a "pat down" search of a student’s person is conducted, it will be conducted in private by a school
administrator or law enforcement officer of the same sex and with an adult witness present, when feasible.
If the school official has reasonable suspicion to believe that the student has on his or her person an item
imminently dangerous to the student or to others, such as a weapon or unauthorized drugs, a more intrusive
search of the student’s person may be conducted. Such a search may only be conducted in private by a school
official or law enforcement officer of the same sex, with an adult witness of the same sex present, and only
upon the prior approval of the Director of Schools or his/her designee, unless the health or safety of students
will be endangered by the delay which might be caused by following these procedures.

Ordinarily, and if circumstances permit, the search of a person or his or her effects should be conducted out of
the presence of other students.

C. Electronic Device Searches

Students have no expectation of privacy for cell phone and other electronic device use on CMCSS property
and/or at related CMCSS functions, activities, or trips. School administrators may search and review any and
all student electronic devices, including cell phones, if there is reasonable suspicion that a search will reveal a
violation of school rules. (SAF-A009)

D. Locker Searches:
Student lockers are school property and remain at all times under the control of the school; however, students
are expected to assume full responsibility for the security of their lockers. When individual circumstances, as
defined by T.C.A. § 49-6-4204(b) indicate, searches of lockers may be conducted by school authorities at
any time without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.

E. Automobile Searches:
Students and other visitors are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right. The
school retains authority to conduct routine patrols of parking lots and any vehicle on school property may be

20
T.C.A. § 49-6-4205
21
All law enforcement investigations and actions will be conducted in accordance with federal and state law.

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 searched whenever individual circumstances dictate.

Students are responsible for the contents of the vehicle they drive to school. Such patrols and searches may be
conducted without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant. Searches of such
automobiles may be conducted in accordance with state law. Dogs, metal detectors, and/or other devices may
be used in conducting such searches.

F. Use of Dogs, Metal Detectors, or Other Devices:22

Dogs, metal detectors or other devices may be used in conducting searches. Specifically, the school retains
authority to use dogs to conduct routine or random patrols and searches of district property for weapon
detection Dogs shall not be used to search individuals unless school officials have established independently
that there is a reasonable suspicion or cause to believe that a particular student or visitor possesses illegal,
unauthorized, or contraband materials on his or her person. In such cases, every precaution shall be taken to
ensure safety while such searches are being conducted. An indication by the dog, metal detector, or other
device that illegal, unauthorized, or contraband material is present shall be reasonable cause for a further
search by school officials. In view of the escalating presence of weapons in our schools, the Board of
Education authorizes the use of hand-held or walk-through metal detectors to check a student’s person or
personal effects as follows:

1. School officials or law enforcement officers may conduct metal detector checks of groups of individuals if
the checks are done in a manner (e.g., on all students in a randomly selected class; on every third individual
entering an athletic event). Metal detector checks of groups of individuals may not be used to single out a
particular individual or category of individuals.23

2. If a school official or a law enforcement officer has reasonable suspicion to believe that a particular student
is in possession of an illegal or unauthorized metal-containing object or weapon, he or she may conduct a
metal detector check of the student’s person and personal effects. A student’s failure to permit a metal
detector check as provided in this policy will be considered grounds for disciplinary action including possible
suspension.

G. Notification of Law Enforcement Authorities:

If a properly conducted search yields illegal or contraband materials, such findings shall be turned over to
proper legal authorities for ultimate disposition.

H. Mass Searches:
Mass searches shall not be permitted except in the most unusual and exigent circumstances indicating that the
delay required in narrowing suspicion to a particular student is likely to result in serious danger to life or
property. In all such cases, effort shall be made to contact the Director of Schools and the General Counsel or
Associate General Counsel before conducting such mass searches.

Refer to T.C.A. § 49-6-4201, et. seq. for additional information.

22
T.C.A. § 49-6-4207 and T.C.A. § 49-6-4208
23
All law enforcement investigations and actions will be conducted in accordance with federal and state law.

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 TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USAGE POLICY

Reference: TCH-A002 – Technology Acceptable Usage Policy

Clarksville-Montgomery County School System (CMCSS) has developed an extensive technology infrastructure, including
hardware, software and connectivity equipment toward the purpose of improving the District’s educational, administrative
and clerical functions. The significant ongoing investment in technology is in part justified by two promises:

1. To better prepare students for life and work in a future filled with technology-laden changes and use.
2. To increase the productivity of current and future staff.

This investment must be protected from potential misuse and deliberate abuse. CMCSS uses a Children’s Internet Protection
Act (CIPA) compliant solution for the challenging work of preventing student internet access to materials the district deems
obscene or harmful. This policy clarifies roles and responsibilities in the use of CMCSS technology, both hardware and
software, to preserve the integrity and usability of these resources to benefit and serve all users. Failure to comply with this
policy may result in the suspension of privileges, internal investigation, and/or criminal prosecution. CMCSS must be strict
in these matters, not only because of the value of the resources, but also to ensure a safe and productive learning and
working environment for our students, faculty, and staff. These rules apply to all CMCSS computing resources.

The intent of this policy is to raise awareness about what is appropriate, ethical, legal and responsible use of a
valuable shared resource, not to enumerate all uses that are or are not appropriate.

Acceptable use of CMCSS information technology resources is based on common sense, common decency, and civility
applied to the networked computing environment. There is no expectation of privacy by users when using the internet or
electronic communications. The district reserves the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review and store (at any time and without
any prior notice) activity related to district computers, computer systems, and electronic communications, with the exception
of personal banking/health information. The district may access district-owned or networked computers for maintenance,
upgrades, or review instances of suspected abuse of district policy. Appropriate use of these resources must be consistent with
the purpose for which the computer/security accounts (log-ins) were originally requested and provided. Privately owned
devices connected to the CMCSS network, whether wired or wireless, are subject to monitoring, inspection, possible
confiscation, and investigation. Attaching privately owned devices to the CMCSS network is a privilege and is subject to all
provisions within the Technology Acceptable Usage Policy.

Expressly prohibited are any uses:

● Which benefit any political, religious, or commercial organization.
● Which are illegal, obscene, or for profit.
● That adversely affect the reputation or image of CMCSS.
● Of unauthorized attempts to log in to any network or server as an administrator.
● Of unauthorized disclosure of personal information.
● Involving vandalism. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy CMCSS data, data
of another user, or other CMCSS computing facilities or equipment.
● That are in violation of the CMCSS Student Code of Conduct.

● Which violate Board or Administrative policies, local, state, or federal law is prohibited.

● Involving changing or tampering with any computer’s system configuration is strictly prohibited.

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Network Security
Network passwords and account information are only given to authorized personnel.

Only users with valid CMCSS network accounts are authorized to use the CMCSS network and computer equipment.
Employees and students must only use their assigned network account.

All computer users must always secure their computer(s) and network log-in before leaving their room or office.
Do not allow anyone to use your computer (with the exception of a CMCSS Technology Department employee). The
individual assigned a computer/security account is accountable for any and all transactions entered under that
computer/security account login.

For the protection and security of CMCSS data, network connectivity is provided to users through specific means relevant to
their needs. Usage of the network connectivity methods listed below are limited to the types of user/devices listed with the
method. Regardless of connection method, users must adhere to the CMCSS Technology Acceptable Usage Policy at all
times.

● Wired Connectivity: all equipment attached to the CMCSS wired network must be district property or have received
approval from the Chief Technology Officer;
● Wireless Connectivity: The wireless network contains two methods for connectivity available to general users.
● CMCSS-Wifi: all equipment attached to the “CMCSS-Wifi” network must be district property or belong to
authorized CMCSS users for appropriate use;
● CMCSS-Guest: personal devices belonging to non-CMCSS users may connect to the CMCSS network using the
“CMCSS-Guest” wifi connection.

Use of software designed to gain passwords or access beyond the rights assigned to a user or computer is strictly prohibited.
Use of such programs risk the security of the network and is considered “hacking”. The intent to obtain unauthorized access
is a violation of State and Federal law. Violators will be prosecuted. Should you inadvertently discover passwords or any
other method used to control unauthorized access, this must be reported immediately to supervisory personnel in the room (in
case of students) or the Chief Technology Officer (in case of staff).

The following activities and uses of the CMCSS network are prohibited:

1. Downloading, installation or use of programs that infiltrate computing systems and/or damage software
components, including “viruses” and “worms”.
2. Downloading, installation or use of any program or software not listed on CMCSS software approval
list without prior written authorization of the CMCSS Technology Department management. Updates
of existing software installed by the Technology Department are permitted.
3. Intentionally disrupting network traffic, crashing the network, or gaining unauthorized access to the
files of another user.
4. Use of the network to personally attack, harass, threaten, or bully another person intentionally or
recklessly publish false information about another person.
5. Use of inappropriate language in any type of communication, including, but not limited to, language
that is illegal, vulgar, profane, abusive, or threatening.
6. Any access to the network through false identity including anonymous communication, falsifying,
concealing, or misrepresenting the user’s identity or sharing or loaning network accounts.
7. Mass e-mailing of unsolicited and unwanted messages (“spamming”), including text, software, video
images, and graphics.
8. Downloading, installation, or use of any software with the intent of hiding or masking internet traffic to
bypass firewall policies; including but not limited to, Virtual Private Network clients/agents or browser

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 extensions.

Internet Connectivity
CMCSS provides internet connectivity to improve the District’s educational, administrative and clerical functions.
Responsible and ethical use of the wired and wireless network system is required. Internet use is intended for valid and
legitimate district related purposes. Classroom use of the internet is intended for instructional related purposes only. Internet
connectivity may not be used for personal gain or political or religious views or in any illegal, offensive or unethical manner,
to include bullying-related acts. All internet traffic is subject to review at any time by authorized CMCSS personnel. In the
event of a violation of this policy, the device used in such violation (either private or property of the CMCSS) may be
confiscated and searched. There is no expectation of privacy.

It is the responsibility of all members of the CMCSS staff to supervise and monitor usage of the online computer network and
access to the internet in accordance with this policy and the CIPA.

Viruses and Virus Protection

The CMCSS Technology Department will provide all virus protection and related software for all CMCSS devices and
servers. Virus protection and related software will be installed by authorized Technology Department personnel unless
otherwise approved by the CMCSS Technology Department.

There are many virus hoaxes. Never delete system files from a computer in order to remove a potential virus without first
checking with the Technology Department to ensure the virus is valid and not a hoax.

Copyright Policy
All students and employees will comply with all applicable copyright laws in the use of all media and materials and model
legal and ethical practices related to technology. CMCSS students may create work in the classroom individually and with the
assistance of CMCSS employees. Such work is owned by the student upon creation. Students and their legal guardians agree
that any and all such student work may be used by CMCSS in its publications, including but not limited to websites and other
distributed materials promoting CMCSS, provided that such original student work will be reported as having been created by
the student. Any student who desires not to authorize CMCSS to publish his/her work or to publish his/her name as the owner
of such work, shall provide written notice to CMCSS that such authorization is not granted.

E-mail
The CMCSS and student e-mail systems have been provided for the internal and external communication of employees, board
members, and students. Responsible and ethical use of the e-mail system is required and should reflect professional standards
at all times. The e-mail system may not be used for personal gain or political or religious views or in any illegal, offensive or
unethical manner, to include bullying-related acts. Personal e-mails should be limited. All e-mail is the property of CMCSS
and should not be considered private or confidential and as such, is subject to review at any time by authorized CMCSS
personnel.

All district employee emails must adhere to the signature guidelines provided by the Communications Department.

Technology Abuse
In the event a CMCSS employee becomes aware of the misuse or abuse of CMCSS technology, he or she should act in
accordance with the district’s Computer Abuse Discovery Procedure (TCH-P026).
Changing or tampering with any computer’s system configuration is strictly prohibited.

SAFE SCHOOL CHOICE

Reference: SAF-A002 –Safe School Choice

CMCSS complies with requirements provided under the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) stating all students are
to be given a safe school choice. The following policy is adopted to comply with all such requirements.

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Definitions:
For the purposes for this policy, the following definitions apply:

Safe School Choice: The students and parents/guardians are provided an opportunity to transfer to another school within the
local education agency (LEA) that is safe for the student. To the extent possible, the LEA will allow transferring students to
transfer to a school that is making adequate yearly progress and has not been identified as being in school improvement,
corrective action or restructuring. The LEA is encouraged to take into account the needs and preferences of the affected
students and parents. The LEA assumes necessary transportation costs associated with the student attending a safe school. A
LEA with only one school at a particular grade level may choose to facilitate a transfer to a school in another school district;
however, such transfer is not required.

Violence-related disciplinary actions: A violence-related disciplinary action is one taken for any of the following offenses:
1. Possession or use of a firearm, as defined in 18 U.S.C.§921.
2. Aggravated assault of a teacher or school system employee (including a school resource officer
assigned to the school). For purposes of this policy, aggravated assault is defined consistent with
T.C.A.§ 39-13-102.
3. Possession or use of a weapon other than a firearm on school property is guilty of a crime, as defined in
T.C.A. § 39-17-1309.

Violent Crime: Any of the following offenses as identified and defined in T.C.A. § 40-38-111(g): aggravated arson,
aggravated assault, aggravated child abuse and neglect, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated rape, aggravated robbery,
aggravated sexual battery, aggravated spousal rape, spousal rape and spousal sexual battery, aggravated vehicular homicide,
carjacking, criminally negligent homicide, especially aggravated burglary, especially aggravated kidnapping, especially
aggravated robbery, first degree murder, incest, kidnapping, rape, rape of a child, reckless homicide, second degree murder,
sexual battery by an authority figure, sexual battery, stalking, statutory rape, vehicular assault, vehicular homicide, and
voluntary manslaughter.

Persistently Dangerous Schools:

Any public elementary or secondary school, with the exception of a school established specifically for serving suspended or
expelled students with behavioral disabilities, will be considered persistently dangerous if it meets the following criteria for
three (3) consecutive years:
1. Have violence-related disciplinary actions as reported by the Annual Report of Zero Tolerance
Offenses. Violence-related disciplinary actions are defined as any of the following: possession/use of a
firearm, battery of a teacher or school employee (including a school resource officer assigned to the
school), and possession/use of a weapon other than a firearm (more detailed descriptions are provided
under definitions of this policy); or
2. Has students who have been the victim of a violent crime at school as defined under victim of a violent
crime at school of this policy; and,
3. The sum of violence-related disciplinary actions and/or incidents of student victimization identified
above are equal to or greater than 3% of the school’s average daily membership.

Required Actions:
Year 1: Any school meeting the criteria identified above receives notification from the Tennessee Department of Education.
The district will direct available federal and state resources to the school to identify problems and implement corrective
action.
Year 2: Any school meeting the criteria for the second consecutive year evaluates its current school safety practices and
submits a corrective action plan to the Tennessee Department of Education.
Year 3: Any school meeting the criteria of three consecutive years is designated by the Tennessee Department of Education
as a persistently dangerous school. With 30 days of receiving notice of the designation, the Director of Schools/designee:
1. Notifies the parents or guardians of all students attending the school that the school has been designated
by the Tennessee Department of Education as a persistently dangerous school and provides for all
students to be given a safe school choice.
2. Submits a corrective action plan to the Commissioner of Education outlining the specific actions and
timetable that the school will follow to ensure the safety of students and faculty.

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Right to Appeal:
A school designated as a persistently dangerous school has the right to appeal the designation. The appeal must be submitted
by the Director of Schools to the Commissioner of Education within 15 calendar days of being notified of the designation and
must present clear evidence that the school provides a safe and disciplined learning environment for all students. A committee
of practitioners appointed by the Commissioner of Education will review the appeal within 15 calendar days of receipt.

Removal of Designation:
Upon implementation of the approved corrective action and completion of one (1) school year with a level of dangerous
incidents below the established criteria, a school will no longer be considered persistently dangerous.

Victim of a Violent Crime at School:

A student is considered the victim of a violent crime at school when the following criteria are met:
1. Evidence is found to reasonably indicate that the student has been the victim of any of the applicable
offenses identified in T.C.A. § 40-38-111(g) or the attempt to commit one of the applicable offenses
defined under T.C.A. § 39-12-101; and
2. The offense occurred while the student was attending school or traveling to or from school on a school bus.

Required Actions:

The building administrator/designee of a school where an alleged incident of student violent crime victimization has occurred
immediately reports the incident to the appropriate law enforcement agency. Promptly following an investigation by
appropriate law enforcement personnel, the building administrator/designee determines whether or not reasonable evidence
exists to indicate that a student has been the victim of a violent crime. Identification of a perpetrator and/or the filing of
criminal charges is not considered a prerequisite for determining that a student has been victimized. Upon determination that
a student has been victimized, and within ten (10) school days of the event, the Director of Schools offers the student and
parents or guardians a safe school choice. The building administrator/designee files a report with the Tennessee Department
of Education as requested by the Commissioner.

Parental Notification

Every public school annually notifies parents that if their 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.

Implementing Documents:
Tennessee Department of Education
www.state.tn.us/education/
Tennessee State Board of Education Policy 4.202
18 U.S.C. §921
T.C.A. § 39-12-101 – Criminal Attempt
T.C.A. § 39-17-1309 – Carrying Weapons on School Property
T.C.A. § 40-38-111(g) – Notifying Victim of Rights

ASSESSMENT INFORMATION FOR PARENTS/GUARDIANS

This information is provided to inform parents and students of assessment practices that are used in addition to classroom or
unit tests given by individual teachers. Grade level or school-wide assessments are administered throughout the school year to
measure progress toward achieving content proficiency and to identify areas of strength and challenge at the student, school,
and district level. These measurements allow CMCSS to provide instruction tailored to the needs of the individual student
while meeting the standards set by the Tennessee Department of Education. Common Unit Assessments are created by
CMCSS teachers and used school-wide or district-wide for a fair and equitable measure of students’ progress.

Information about curriculum standards and assessments is available on the following website:
https://accountability.cmcss.net/assessments/

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Assessment information is available on the state’s website please visit: https://accountability.cmcss.net/

Tennessee academic standards are accessible on the state’s website please visit:
https://www.tn.gov/education/districts/academic-standards.html

In accordance with the Textbook Transparency Act, CMCSS has provided an Online Textbooks Hub. This
site is continuously updated and can be accessed via the CMCSS Parent Academic Resources Hub.

Additionally, click here for CMCSS’ policy on Parent/Legal Guardian Review of Instructional Resources
(INS-A073).

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ASSESSMENTS

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)

Grades 4th, 8th, and 12th; National Assessment
The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is the largest national assessment with results representative of
what students across the United States know and can do in various subject areas. The assessments are administered
periodically online and in pencil/paper format in math, reading, science, writing, the arts, civics, economics, geography, US
History, technology, and engineering literacy. For more information on the National Assessment of Educational Progress
(NAEP), please visit https://www.tn.gov/education/districts/lea-operations/assessment/naep.html

Universal Screener
Grades K-HS; RTI2 Assessment
Universal screenings review the performance and progress of all students through brief assessments in reading and math.
Universal screenings help schools identify students who may need more support or other types of instruction. CMCSS
utilizes FastBridge as the Universal Screener. For more information on Universal Screener and RTI 2, please visit the state
website at https://sites.google.com/cmcss.net/rti2/home

TCAP Achievement
Grades 3-5, State Assessment

Test windows are established by the state, and are typically April – May.

Achievement (ACH) exams will be paper-based. The Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) ACH assessment for
English language arts is a four-part timed assessment with one section designed to assess writing skills. The assessment for
mathematics is a three-part timed assessment with one section consisting of non-calculator items. The science timed assessment
consists of two parts. The social studies assessment for 3 - 5 is currently paused. The results of these examinations will be factored
into the student’s grade at a percentage determined by the State Board of Education in accordance with T.C.A. §49-1-302 (2). For
more information on the TCAP ACH, please visit the state assessment website: https://www.tn.gov/education/districts/lea-
operations/assessment/tnready.html

WIDA Access for EL students

Grades K-12; summative scheduled for February – April 2024

WIDA Access, an English Language proficiency assessment, is administered to all K-12 students identified as NELB [non-English
Language Background] upon their arrival in the district. The summative assessment, which identifies the growth in English Language
acquisition, is administered to all K-12 EL students in the spring of the academic year. https://wida.wisc.edu/assess/access

Multi-State Alternate Assessment (MSAA) and TCAP-Alt Science and Social Studies (TCAP-Alt)

Tennessee currently offers the following alternate assessments: [Required] The Multi-State Alternate Assessment (MSAA) in
ELA/writing and mathematics (Grades 3–8, 11) and [Required] The TCAP-Alt for Science and Social Studies (Grades 3–8, Grade 10
Science). The alternate assessments are based on alternate achievement standards in compliance with the U.S. Department of

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Education federal regulations and guidance. A student must have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and the primary disability
must be recognized under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The term “significant cognitive disability” is not a
category of disability. It is a designation given to a small number of students with disabilities for purposes of their participation in the
state assessment program, and if determined to have this disability, all of the following statements must be true as determined by the
student’s IEP team.

The three eligibility criteria that students must meet in order to be eligible for the alternate assessments are:

1. The student has a significant cognitive disability.

2. The student is learning content linked to (derived from) Tennessee Academic Standards.
3. The student requires extensive direct individualized instruction and substantial supports to achieve measurable gains in the
grade- and age-appropriate curriculum.

More information on eligibility requirements for alternate assessments is available here.

A student eligible to participate in the alternate assessment will be assessed on all four content areas—ELA, math, science, and social
studies.

MSAA Format
The assessment is designed to be administered online; however, depending on students’ individual needs, some students will interact
directly with the computer while others will interact with printed materials prepared by the test administrator. The test includes built-in
supports to ensure students can respond as independently as possible. Most of the items are selected response, but some items are
constructed response. The assessment includes two mathematics sessions and four ELA sessions with approximately 35–40 total
items.

TCAP-Alt Format
TCAP-Alt is in a paper-and-pencil format. The teacher reads test questions to the student and transcribes the student’s answer choice
on a scannable form. Each assessment (science and social studies) will include 20–30 multiple choice questions. Each question has 2–
3 possible correct answer choices.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ASSESSMENTS

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)

Grades 4th, 8th, and 12th; National Assessment
The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is the largest national assessment with results representative of
what students across the United States know and can do in various subject areas. The assessments are administered
periodically online and in pencil/paper format in math, reading, science, writing, the arts, civics, economics, geography, US
History, technology, and engineering literacy. For more information on the National Assessment of Educational Progress
(NAEP), please visit https://www.tn.gov/education/districts/lea-operations/assessment/naep.html

Universal Screener
Grades K-HS; RTI2 Assessment
Universal screenings review the performance and progress of all students through brief assessments in reading and math.
Universal screenings help schools identify students who may need more support or other types of instruction. CMCSS
utilizes FastBridge as the Universal Screener. For more information on Universal Screener and RTI 2, please visit the state
website at https://sites.google.com/cmcss.net/rti2/home

TCAP Achievement (ACH)

Grades 6-8, State Assessment

Test windows are determined by the state, and are typically in April - May.

The Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) ACH assessment for English language arts is a four-part timed
assessment with one section designed to assess writing. The assessment for mathematics is a three-part timed assessment with one

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section consisting of non-calculator items. The science timed assessment consists of two parts. The social studies timed assessment
consists of two parts. The results of these examinations will be factored into the student’s grade at a percentage determined by the
State Board of Education in accordance with T.C.A. §49-1-302 (2). For more information on the TCAP ACH, please visit the state
assessment website at https://www.tn.gov/education/districts/lea-operations/assessment/tnready.html

TCAP END OF COURSE (EOC), State Assessment

Middle School Algebra I for High School Credit

Test window April - May 2025

Based on successful verification tests, we will administer high school EOC tests online, computer-based for Fall 2022 and Spring
2025. The TCAP EOC assessment for mathematics is a three-part timed assessment with one section consisting of non-calculator
items. NOTE: State Board Policy 2.103 Section 3. C; Students enrolled in courses with End of Course examinations may not withdraw
from such courses after being enrolled in the course for at least twenty-five percent (25%, 1st 9 weeks) of the instructional days in the
course. The results of these examinations will be factored into the student’s grade at a percentage determined by the State Board of
Education in accordance with T.C.A. §49-1-302 (2). For more information on the TCAP EOC, please visit the state assessment
website.

WIDA Access for EL students

Grades K-12; summative scheduled for February - April 2025

WIDA Access, an English Language proficiency assessment, is administered to all K-12 students identified as NELB [non-English
Language Background] upon their arrival in the district. The summative assessment, which identifies the growth in English Language
acquisition, is administered to all K-12 EL students in the spring of the academic year. https://wida.wisc.edu/assess/access

Multi-State Alternate Assessment (MSAA) and TCAP-Alt Science and Social Studies (TCAP-Alt)

Tennessee currently offers the following alternate assessments: [Required] The Multi-State Alternate Assessment (MSAA) in
ELA/writing and mathematics (Grades 3–8, 11) and [Required] The TCAP-Alt for Science and Social Studies (Grades 3–8, Grade 10
Science). The alternate assessments are based on alternate achievement standards in compliance with the U.S. Department of
Education federal regulations and guidance. A student must have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and the primary disability
must be recognized under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The term “significant cognitive disability” is not a
category of disability. It is a designation given to a small number of students with disabilities for purposes of their participation in the
state assessment program, and if determined to have this disability, all of the following statements must be true as determined by the
student’s IEP team.

The three eligibility criteria that students must meet in order to be eligible for the alternate assessments are:

1. The student has a significant cognitive disability.

2. The student is learning content linked to (derived from) Tennessee Academic Standards.
3. The student requires extensive direct individualized instruction and substantial supports to achieve measurable gains in the
grade- and age-appropriate curriculum.

MSAA Format
The assessment is designed to be administered online; however, depending on students’ individual needs, some students will
interact directly with the computer while others will interact with printed materials prepared by the test administrator. The test
includes built-in supports to ensure students can respond as independently as possible. Most of the items are selected response,
but some items are constructed response. The assessment includes two mathematics sessions and four ELA sessions with
approximately 35–40 total items.

TCAP-Alt Format
TCAP-Alt is in a paper-and-pencil format. The teacher reads test questions to the student and transcribes the student’s answer choice

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on a scannable form. Each assessment (science and social studies) will include 20–30 multiple choice questions. Each question has 2–
3 possible correct answer choices.

HIGH SCHOOL ASSESSMENTS

ACT
Grade 11; National Assessment

The ACT college readiness assessment is a curriculum- and standards-based educational and career planning tool that
assesses students' academic readiness for college. For more information on the ACT, please visit
College Readiness Testing

AP (Advanced Placement)
Grade 10-12; dates posted on AP website; National Assessment
Advanced Placement courses and exams provide students the opportunity to complete challenging college level courses
while in high school. Colleges and universities grant program placement and course credit for students achieving high
scores on advanced placement exams. For more information on AP please visit the AP website at
https://apstudent.collegeboard.org/home

National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP)

Grades 4th, 8th, and 12th; National Assessment
The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) is the largest national assessment with results representative of
what students across the United States know and can do in various subject areas. The assessments are administered
periodically online and in pencil/paper format in math, reading, science, writing, the arts, civics, economics, geography, US
History, technology, and engineering literacy. For more information on the National Assessment of Educational Progress
(NAEP), please visit https://www.tn.gov/education/districts/lea-operations/assessment/naep.html .

Universal Screener
Grades K-HS; RTI2 Assessment
Universal screenings review the performance and progress of all students through brief assessments in reading and math.

Universal screenings help schools identify students who may need more support or other types of instruction. CMCSS
utilizes FastBridge as the Universal Screener. For more information on Universal Screener and RTI 2, please visit the state
website at https://sites.google.com/cmcss.net/rti2/home

TCAP END OF COURSE (EOC), State Assessment

Test window April - May 2025

Based on successful verification tests, we will administer tests online, computer-based for Fall 2022 and Spring 2025.

The Tennessee Comprehensive Assessment Program (TCAP) EOC assessment for English language arts is a four-part timed
assessment with one section designed to assess writing. The TCAP EOC assessment for mathematics is a three-part timed assessment
with one section consisting of non-calculator items. The test for science standards is a timed assessment consisting of one-part. The
social studies test is a timed assessment consisting of two parts. The results of these examinations will be factored into the student’s
grade at a percentage determined by the State Board of Education in accordance with T.C.A. §49-1-302 (2). For more information on
the TCAP EOC, please visit the state assessment website.

United States Civics test

All high school students in Tennessee are required to take a United States civics test. In CMCSS, students will take the United States
Civics test either in US Government & Civics or in JROTC II. (Tennessee State Board of Education, High School Policy, 2.103,
revised 10/31/2014.)

WIDA Access for EL students

Grades K-12; summative scheduled for February - April 2025
WIDA Access, an English Language proficiency assessment, is administered to all K-12 students identified as NELB [non-English

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Language Background] upon their arrival in the district. The summative assessment, which identifies the growth in English Language
acquisition, is administered to all K-12 EL students in the spring of the academic year. https://wida.wisc.edu/assess/access

Multi-State Alternate Assessment (MSAA) and TCAP-Alt Science and Social Studies (TCAP-Alt)

Tennessee currently offers the following alternate assessments: [Required] The Multi-State Alternate Assessment (MSAA) in
ELA/writing and mathematics (Grades 3–8, 11) and [Required] The TCAP-Alt for Science and Social Studies (Grades 3–8, Grade 10
Science). The alternate assessments are based on alternate achievement standards in compliance with the U.S. Department of
Education federal regulations and guidance. A student must have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and the primary disability
must be recognized under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The term “significant cognitive disability” is not a
category of disability. It is a designation given to a small number of students with disabilities for purposes of their participation in the
state assessment program, and if determined to have this disability, all of the following statements must be true as determined by the
student’s IEP team.

The three eligibility criteria that students must meet in order to be eligible for the alternate assessments are:

1. The student has a significant cognitive disability.

2. The student is learning content linked to (derived from) Tennessee Academic Standards.
3. The student requires extensive direct individualized instruction and substantial supports to achieve measurable gains in the grade-
and age-appropriate curriculum.

MSAA Format
The assessment is designed to be administered online; however, depending on students’ individual needs, some students will interact
directly with the computer while others will interact with printed materials prepared by the test administrator. The test includes built-in
supports to ensure students can respond as independently as possible. Most of the items are selected response, but some items are
constructed response. The assessment includes two mathematics sessions and four ELA sessions with approximately 35–40 total
items.

TCAP-Alt Format
TCAP-Alt is in a paper-and-pencil format. The teacher reads test questions to the student and transcribes the student’s answer choice
on a scannable form. Each assessment (science and social studies) will include 20–30 multiple choice questions. Each question has 2–
3 possible correct answer choices.

A FAMILY GUIDE TO RESPONSE TO INSTRUCTION AND INTERVENTION (RTI²) 2024-2025

What is RTI²?
Response to instruction and intervention is the way CMCSS intervenes with students who are struggling academically by focusing on
quality core instruction and intervention of specific skill deficits. The purpose of RTI² is to intervene with students quickly in the area
of need so skill deficit gaps do not develop as they progress through school.

What does the RTI² Framework look like?

The RTI² Framework has three tiers; each tier provides intensifying levels of support.
● In Tier l, all students receive evidence-based, high-quality, general education standards-based instruction that incorporates
ongoing universal screening and assessments to inform instruction. Tier I is another name for the regular core instruction all
students receive every year.
● In Tier ll, students identified with significant skill deficits receive intervention targeted to the specific area of need. Student
progress is consistently monitored during intervention and decisions about tier movement are based on progress monitoring
data.
● In Tier III, more intensive interventions are provided to students who have yet to make significant progress in Tier II or
demonstrate a deficit significant enough to warrant immediate Tier III intervention. Students are monitored closely to
determine if the intervention is effective. Movement from Tier III is dependent upon intervention success.

Tier II and III intervention occur in addition to regular classroom instruction. Schools will communicate with parents in writing when
students move into and out of intervention, as well as update progress during intervention.

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What are the key components of RTI²?
RTI² has been around for many years and is proven to improve instruction for all students by identifying areas for improvement in
core instruction.

Schools assess all students in the fall, winter, and spring using a Universal Screener. This is a skills-based measure students are given
to quickly check how they perform compared to grade-level expectations. Screeners are brief measures of math and reading
proficiency and social-emotional protective factors. School teams consider data from multiple sources, including the screener, to
determine the level of intervention most appropriate and the specific skill deficit.

Another key component of RTI² is progress monitoring. Progress monitoring is a way for teachers to measure how children perform
on a specific skill. It includes formal and informal assessments. Progress monitoring helps determine whether an intervention is
successful or needs to be intensified. Data from this type of monitoring is shared with parents regularly (every 5 weeks).

When progress monitoring indicates a student is not responding to the intervention at an acceptable rate (gap closure is not occurring
within a reasonable time), another approach or intervention may be implemented. If a higher level of support is needed, students may
receive more intensive intervention that closely aligns with the supporting skills needed to be successful learners (Tier lll). Students
who have yet to respond to Tier III interventions may be referred for a special education evaluation.

What if I think my child needs special education?

Parents/guardians who suspect their child needs special education services may request an evaluation at any time (TN Dept. of Ed
Memo, Sept 2023). To begin this process, please contact your child’s teacher or administrator. Information gathered through the RTI2
Framework is combined with other forms of evaluation to determine if a student is eligible for special education services. A parent’s
written consent is required for these evaluations to be conducted. Each school will provide additional information about RTI²
implementation.

A SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING SCREENING AND CONTINUED INTERVENTION

If your student was recommended to continue participating in tiered intervention in the spring, that intervention will continue this fall.
The district will begin administering fall universal screening measures to gauge student progress and make instructional plans to meet
the needs of all students as soon as students return to school. Data from the fall universal screening will be used along with previous
screening, progress monitoring, and curriculum-based data to determine the need for continued intervention and tier level, and
pinpoint specific deficits. After universal screening measures are administered, parents/guardians will be provided information if the
continued or initial placement of their student(s) in tiered intervention is recommended. All data will be treated as continuous (i.e., the
summer break does not necessitate a ‘restart’ on data collection nor will it delay progression toward referral) and teams will meet
frequently and consistently to review student progress and make informed decisions.

TENNESSEE LITERACY SUCCESS ACT AND THE CMCSS FOUNDATIONAL LITERACY SKILLS PLAN
In compliance with the Tennessee Literacy Success Act, each district and public charter school must submit a Foundational Literacy
Skills Plan. School districts and public charter schools must create a local Foundational Literacy Skills Plan for students in
kindergarten through fifth grade and submit the final approved plan to the department for approval.

We wish you and your student(s) a healthy, productive school year! Should you have any questions, please contact your school’s RTI2
lead or the district RTI2 data team at [email protected].

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 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
For the purpose of this code, the following terms shall apply:

Alternative School Program

A structured learning environment where students are assigned for behavior infractions. Instruction shall
proceed as nearly as practicable in accordance with the instructional program at the student’s home school.
Attendance is mandatory.

Base Academy
Students in grades 3-5 may attend BASE (Behavior, Academic, Social, and Emotional) Academy as an
alternative school setting.

CBD
Short for cannabidiol, is a compound found in marijuana and derived from different varieties of the Cannabis
sativa plant. In Tennessee persons under 21 cannot purchase or possess tobacco or smoking hemp, vapor
product, or smokeless nicotine.

Credible Threat
A threat is deemed a credible threat if it includes the following components: a) An intent or plan to inflict bodily
injury or death to another student or school employee is communicated through verbal, written, or electronic
means; b) the communication is intended to, and actually causes, students or district employees to believe they
are under threat of death or serious bodily injury; c) creates actual disruptive activity at the school that requires
administrative intervention.

Detention
A student may be detained before or after school for disciplinary reasons.

Expulsion
Shall be defined as exclusion or removal for more than ten (10) consecutive days from a school and any activity
sponsored by a CMCSS school and may include a minimum remandment of thirty (30) school days at the
Alternative School.

Incendiary Device
Used or adapted for setting property on fire.

Individualized Education Plan (IEP)

Describes the educational needs of the student and the specially designed instruction and related services that
meet those needs.

In-School Suspension
The principal reassigns the student to a separate, supervised area, isolated from usual activities in the school. The
student is counted present.

Legend Drug
As defined in T.C.A. § 53-10-101 is any item which federal law prohibits dispensing without a prescription
from a licensed doctor, dentist, optometrist or veterinarian.

OC
Offense Code or violations of school rules

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 Out-of-School-Suspension
Dismissed from attendance at school for any reason for not more than ten (10) consecutive days. The student is
excluded from school and all curricular and extracurricular activities. The student is counted absent.

Parent/Legal Guardian
Interchangeable terms

Remandment
Assignment to an alternative school

Representative
A non-parent adult requested by the student’s parent to act on their behalf in a disciplinary hearing

School Administrator
A school principal, assistant principal, or his/her designee

School function
Means any school-sponsored extra-curricular event or activity

School official
Any employee of the school or school district

School property
Means in or within any building, structure, athletic playing field, playground, parking lot or land contained within
the real property boundary line of a public elementary or secondary school, at school bus stops or in or on a school
bus.

Self-defense
A student who reasonably believes him/herself to be in imminent danger from another student uses the
necessary force to protect him/herself. If the victim of force has the opportunity to walk away but chooses
to use force in return, this constitutes retaliation, not self-defense.

Synthetic drugs
Shall include, but not be limited to those defined in T.C.A. § 39-17-452, or any comparable or future
legislation defining or governing synthetic drugs, including any capsule, pill, or other product composed of or
containing any amount of the following synthetic derivatives or analogues of methcathinone, or any
combination of such derivatives or analogues as defined in T.C.A. § 39-17-452 And any packet, capsule, pill,
or product, of any chemical compound or synthetic drug not governed by T.C.A. § 39- 17-452 that emulates,
replicates, mimics, simulates or causes effects similar to any synthetic drug or chemical compound listed in
T.C.A. § 39-17-452, or a reaction similar to the effects of a psychoactive drug with stimulant properties,
including any drug or chemical compound that is privately compounded that circumvents the synthetic
derivatives or analogues of cathinone or methcathinone or the derivatives or analogues listed in T.C.A. § 39-
17-452, including through chemical changes such as the addition, subtraction or rearranging of an ingredient.
These manufactured products include but are not limited to those commonly known as “Bath Salts”, “Plant
Food”, “Fake Bath Salts”, “Fake Fertilizer”, and/or “Fake Insect Repellant.”

Synthetic drugs shall also include any packet, capsule, pill, or product, of any chemical compound or synthetic
drug not governed by T.C.A. § 39-17-438 that emulates, replicates, mimics, simulates or causes a similar
reaction to the effects of any synthetic drug or chemical compound listed in T.C.A. § 39-17-438, marijuana,
cannabis or synthetic marijuana, including any drug or chemical compound that is privately compounded that
circumvents the compounds listed in T.C.A, § 39-17-438 for synthetic cannabinoids, including through chemical
changes such as the addition, subtraction or rearranging of an ingredient. These manufactured products include,

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 but are not limited to “Spice,” “Spice Gold,” “K2,” “Blaze,” “Nitro,” “Skunk,” Ultra Chronic,” and “Blueberry
Haze.”

T.C.A.
Tennessee Code Annotated. Statutory laws for the state of Tennessee.

THC
Tetrahydrocannabinol, a compound that is the chief intoxicant in marijuana and can be found in other substances.

Weapon
Being in unauthorized possession of any of the following: any gun, shotgun, rifle, pistol, taser, dynamite
cartridge, bomb, grenade, mine, explosive device, shell or bullet, Bowie knife or other knife, dirk, dagger,
slingshot, leaded can, switchblade knife, lock blade knife, blackjack, metallic knuckles, mace, or any item of
similar description to include those listed in T.C.A. § 39-17-1309.

ZERO TOLERANCE violations:

1. Possession of firearm as defined in 18 U.S.C. §921
2. Assault of LEA employee or SRO or aggravated assault of LEA employee, SRO, or student
3. Drugs- Possession, use, or distribution of drugs as outlined herein.
4. Communication of a credible threat and/or threat of mass violence as outlined herein.

NOTE: Zero tolerance offenses require mandatory calendar year expulsion unless modified by the Director of Schools.

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 CODE OF CONDUCT & TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE AND RESPONSIBLE USE
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

Please sign and return this page to your student’s school using one of the methods below to
acknowledge your access to the Student Code of Conduct and agreement with the Technology
Acceptable and Responsible Use guidelines.
● Electronically sign and submit
OR
● Sign and return a physical copy

Student: ___________________________________________
Student ID: _________________________________________
School: ____________________________________________
Teacher: ___________________________________________

Please sign and return this page to your student’s school to acknowledge your access to the
Student Code of Conduct and agreement with the Technology Acceptable and Responsible Use
guidelines.

CODE OF CONDUCT ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

By signing below, I agree that my child and I have access to a copy of the Student Code
of Conduct for the 2024-2025 school year. I understand that the Student Code of Conduct
Handbook includes Rights, Responsibilities, Rules, Due Process Procedures, and a
Statement of Rights for Disabled Children. I understand that my child is expected to read
and become familiar with all of this Code. I further understand that my child is subject to
the rules and the disciplinary actions that it provides.

_
Signature of Parent / Date Signature of Student / Date

TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE AND RESPONSIBLE USE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

By signing below, I agree that I have read the Technology Acceptable and Responsible
Use Policy contained within the Student Code of Conduct. I have read and understand
the rules, expectations, and consequences of use of CMCSS technology equipment, email
communication systems, network, and/or internet. Both my child and I understand that
every time my student uses CMCSS technology equipment, email communication
systems, network, and/or internet, he or she accepts the terms of this policy including full
responsibility and liability for his or her actions.

Signature of Parent / Date Signature of Student / Date

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