ATTENDANCE



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Administrative Staff:

Vickie A. Brown, Principal

Bernard Joiner, K-2 Assistant Principal

Zetta Daniels, 3-5 Assistant Principal

Contact Information:

705 Hudson Avenue

Ashburn, GA 31714

Telephone: (229) 567-2461

Fax: (229) 567-2546

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Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to Turner County Elementary School for the 2014-2015 academic year. We look forward to an exciting school year that will be one of the most rewarding in your child’s school career. I am privileged to work with an outstanding faculty and staff who are committed to the success of our students by providing them with a strong, standards based academic program in a safe, positive and orderly learning environment. We are passionate about guiding our students in becoming caring, respectful, productive, and responsible citizens. Together with our students, parents, and community, we can provide the best possible education for each student.

This handbook contains information that is important and useful and is written with the belief that all students have a right to learn and that our teachers have a right to teach. I urge you to read it thoroughly and thoughtfully. The guidelines are written in order to create an environment conducive to learning and a school where all feel safe and secure and that is respectful of the rights and dignity of each individual.

We want to do everything possible to protect the educational moments of each day. Our teachers have scheduled planning times for instructional planning and also to meet with parents. If you need to meet or talk with your child’s teacher, please call the school and set up a meeting during the teacher’s planning period.

Our mascot is the OWL, and our motto is “O-W-L-S: Outstanding Work Leads to Success.” It takes the outstanding work of our faculty, staff, students, parents, and community for us to be successful. Thank you for your contributions to the success of TCES. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please feel free to contact us.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Vickie A. Brown, Ed. S.

Principal

Notice of Non-Discrimination

The Turner County School System provides equal opportunity to students and staff and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, political affiliation, age, disability, sex, or veteran status.

|Turner County Board of Education |

Dr. Joy Gentry – Interim Superintendent

Mr. Sam Brown - Chairman

Mr. Phillip Crawford - Vice-Chairman

Mr. Chris Brown

Mrs. Ann Kendrick

Mrs. Francis Office

Turner County Board of Education

423 North Cleveland

P.O. Box 609

Ashburn, Georgia 31714

229-567-3338

|Turner County Elementary School |

Our Mission

The mission of Turner County Elementary School is to create a safe and challenging environment where all students have the opportunity to develop to their fullest potential. 

Our Vision

We envision TCES teachers, parents, and students working together to provide a culture of academic excellence to produce a community of lifelong learners and responsible citizens in a diverse, ever-changing world.

Our Motto

Our motto is: O.W.L.S. – Outstanding Work Leads to Success

Our Values

• All students will demonstrate mastery of the collaboratively agreed upon, essential curriculum that focuses on what students are required to learn, know, and be able to do. Enrichment will be tailored to students’ needs.

• Staff unity and consistency will enhance student learning through collaboratively planned clear expectations and procedures.

• Students will know where they stand, what teachers and administrators will do to ensure their success, and that teachers and administrators are “on their side.”

|Turner County Elementary School |

|2014-2015 Important Dates |

|August 12-14 |Pre-Planning for Faculty and Staff |

|August 14 |Open House, 4:00-6:00 p.m. |

|August 15 |First Day of School, First Semester |

|September 1 |Labor Day Holiday |

|September 19 |Midterm Grades go home with Friday Folders |

|September 26-October 10 |Fall Fundraiser |

|October 15 |End of 1st Grading Period |

|October 17 |Fall Break for Students/In-Service for Faculty and Staff |

|October 23 |Parent Conferences |

|November 14 |Midterm Grades go home with Friday Folders |

|November 24-28 |Thanksgiving Holidays |

|December 12 |All Library Books turned in before holidays |

|December 19 |Christmas Programs / Christmas Parties at 2:00 p.m. |

|December 22-January 2 |Christmas Holidays for Everyone |

|January 5 |Holiday for Students / In-Service for Faculty and Staff |

|January 8 |Parent Conferences |

|January 19 |Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday for Everyone |

|January 23-February 9 |TCES Book Fair |

|January 24 |Test Prep Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |

|January 28 |100th Day of School |

|February 6 |Midterm Grades go home with Friday Folders |

|February 7 |Test Prep Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |

|February 13 |Valentine’s Day Parties at 2:00 p.m. |

|February 16 |Presidents’ Day Holiday for Everyone |

|February 21 |Test Prep Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |

|March 2 |Read Across America Day / Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Celebration |

|March 7 |Test Prep Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |

|March 9 |End of 3rd Grading Period |

|March 12 |Parent Conference Night |

|March 21 |Test Prep Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |

|March 27 |FireAnt Festival Holiday for Students/In-Service for Faculty/Staff |

|March 30-April 3 |Spring Holidays for Everyone |

|April 10 |Midterm Grades go home with Friday Folders |

|April 11 |Test Prep Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |

|April 13-23 |Georgia Milestones Testing |

|April 30 and May 1 |Field Day - 3-5 a.m. on April 30 and K-2 a.m. on May 1 |

|May 1 |All Library Books turned in |

|May 14 |1st- 4th Grades Honors Programs |

|May 15 |Last Day of School / K Honors Program / 5th Grade Graduation |

|May 19-20 |Post-Planning |

|ATTENDANCE |

MORNING

The school building will open at 7:30 a.m. Students should report to the cafeteria if eating breakfast or to the gym if not eating breakfast at school. Students will be dismissed from the gym for class at 7:40 a.m. Students who eat breakfast at school must be in the cafeteria by 7:50 a.m. in order to make it to class before the tardy bell.  Students should be in their classrooms at 7:50 a.m. and will be counted tardy after the 8:00 a.m. tardy bell. Parents should make every effort to ensure that students are on time to school each day.

Each morning, a quote for the day, a moment of silence and morning announcements will be made over the intercom at 7:50 a.m., and it is very important that students are in their classrooms during this important time.

Morning Parent drop-off: Staff will be on duty to assist with this procedure. Morning drop-off for all car-riders is single-file at the front entrance of the building. For the safety of all students, PLEASE DO NOT PASS other cars.

1. Please teach your child to exit the car on the right side.

2. If you need to walk your child into the building, please park in the front parking lot. Do not leave your car in the fire lane at the front entrance at any time.

3. Waiting until the last minute to bring a child to school results in long lines out front and could result in your child being counted tardy to class. Parents may drop students off beginning at 7:30 a.m.

4. Please give out kisses, hugs, lunch money and signed papers before stopping to drop off your child to avoid unnecessary delays in the line of traffic.

AFTERNOON

City route bus students are dismissed at 3:02 p.m.

Parent pick-up students are dismissed at 3:12 p.m.

County route bus students are dismissed at 3:20 p.m.

The school day does not conclude until 3:02 p.m. Early dismissal is discouraged, because students miss valuable academic time. At the end of each day, teachers and students need time for closure for the day’s learning activities. Due to heavy congestion and disruption of the final minutes of instruction, we ask that parents refrain from coming to the office to check students out between 2:30 p.m. and 3:10 p.m.

We cannot deliver messages to students. If you need to change anything about how a child will be getting home from school, you must send or bring a note to the school. Phone messages for students will not be accepted. Students should bring a note from home in order to ride a different bus or to be picked-up by another adult. The notes should be given to the teacher first thing in the morning and must include:

Student’s Name, Address of Destination, and Phone Number where a parent can be reached if there are questions regarding student’s destination.

Only in emergencies should a parent contact the school if there is a change in dismissal. Phone calls must be made before 2:00 p.m. in order to help teachers and office staff prepare for the changes.

Pick-up lines are dual lines. The lines wait behind the mailbox until 3:12 p.m. DO NOT PASS nor GO BETWEEN cars, unless directed by staff. For the safety of all students, please obey the following rules:

1. Do not exit your car and go into the building to pick up your child after 2:30.

2. Do not pass another vehicle that is in your lane or go between the two lanes.

3. Remind your child to watch for your car and be prepared to leave when you get to the front of the school.

ABSENCES AND EXCUSES

Students are expected to be in attendance in Turner County Schools in accordance with compulsory attendance laws and for the number of full-length days prescribed by law. A student shall not be absent from school or from any class or other required school hours except for illness or other providential cause, unless with written permission of the teacher, principal, or their duly authorized school official.

Absences will be considered either “excused” or “unexcused.”

As permitted under state law and State Board of Education policies, students may be excused for the following reasons.

1. Personal illness or when attendance in school would endanger the student’s health or the health of others;

2. A serious illness or death in a student’s immediate family that necessitates absences from school;

3. Celebrating special, recognized religious holidays observed by their faith, necessitating absence from school;

4. A court order or an order by a governmental agency, mandating absence from school;

5. Conditions rendering school attendance impossible or hazardous to student health or safety.

Excuses for absences shall be furnished in writing, shall be signed by the student’s parent or guardian and shall specifically state the dates and reasons for the absence. Absences will be declared unexcused unless excuses signed by the parent are brought to school the day following the absence. All excuses will be evaluated by the principal or a designee to determine if the absence is excused or unexcused. Students shall be permitted to make up work when absences are excused. Absences due to out of school suspension shall be unexcused. All work must be made up in any class that is missed due to any absence. Students missing work due to unexcused absences will make up work during exploratory, recess, and/or lunch. All make-up work for excused absences must be completed within three school days after returning to school from the absence unless arrangements have been made with the teacher(s). Parents are encouraged to call the school and request assignments for students who are absent.

In cases where a student has many separate absences due to illness, the school or attendance officer may require written statements from the attending physician.

Students shall be counted as present when they are in attendance at least one half of the instructional period and/or instructional day, but leaving early is discouraged.

Absences shall not penalize student grades if the following conditions are met.

1. Absences are justified and validated for excusable reasons.

2. Make-up work for excused absences was completed satisfactorily.

3. A grade average of 70 or above has been earned in the course work.

Attendance Protocol (Unexcused Absences)

|1st |2nd |

|1st |Teacher reminder |

|2nd |Teacher discretion |

|3rd |One day detention |

|4th |Two days detention |

|5th |Two days detention |

|6th |Two days detention |

|More than 7 |Refer to Turner County BOE Attendance Protocol |

|ACADEMICS |

WORK HABITS

Students should maintain work habits that will facilitate school success. Students should report to class with all textbooks and necessary materials for participation in the activities of the class as outlined by the teacher. Preparations for carrying out class activities should be completed before class starts, and students are expected to give the teacher their full attention during instruction. Students should be respectful of all adults and not disrupt any instructional activity.

GRADING PERIODS AND REPORT CARDS

The school year will be divided into four (4) grading periods and a report card will be sent home at the end of each grading period. See school calendar for dates.

GRADING SCALE

A = 90-100

B = 80-89

C = 70-79

F = Below 70

I = Incomplete

PROGRESS REPORTS

Weekly progress reports will be sent to parents on Fridays. Weekly folders will include a report on academic performance and behavior. Midterm grades will be sent out at the midpoint of each grading period. See school calendar for dates.

PARENT CONFERENCES/PROGRESS REPORTS

Open House/Parent Conference Nights will be held at the end of the first, second, and third nine weeks grading period. All parents are encouraged to attend these conferences or to contact your child’s teacher if you have questions or desire more information about your child’s academic progress.

The faculty welcomes the opportunity to discuss classroom performance and behavior with parents/guardians. We do ask that you please contact the front office at 229-567-2461 to set up a conference. We will make every attempt to schedule a time that is conducive to your schedule, but conferences will not be scheduled at a time that interferes with instructional activities. Teachers will not be allowed to conduct hallway conferences while their students are in the classroom. The administrative staff will be more than glad to assist you in developing a positive relationship between home and school. Parents and visitors will not be allowed down the halls unless previously arranged and the front office has been notified.

PROMOTION/RETENTION

1. No third grade student shall be promoted to the fourth grade if the student does not achieve grade level on the Georgia Milestones Assessment in reading and meet promotion standards and criteria established by the local board of education.

2. No fifth grade student shall be promoted to the sixth grade if the student does not achieve grade level on the Georgia Milestones Assessment in reading and math and meet promotion standards and criteria established by the local board of education.

Elementary students are expected to pass all academic subjects in addition to performing at the “Meets Expectations” level on the Georgia Milestones Assessment. The decision to retain or promote a student in grades K, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 shall be made by a school level committee consisting of the grade level teachers and an administrator. Georgia Milestones Assessment (or other assessment) scores, progress monitoring scores, and subject grades will be considered for promotion.

Students failing two or more subjects (Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies, English-Language Arts) will not be considered for promotion.

HONOR ROLL

Honor students must have a cumulative average of 89.5 to 94.4.

High Honor students must have a cumulative average higher than 94.4.

HONORS PROGRAM

The annual Honors Program will be held during the last week of school to recognize students who have excelled in academics and service. Parents are invited to attend.

MEDIA CENTER

The Media Center is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Students visiting the center are expected to conduct themselves in a quiet, studious manner. Each student is responsible for library materials issued to him/her and must pay for any damage to or loss of them while they are in his/her possession or checked out to the student. Students are required to have hall passes and move quietly and quickly to and from the library.

COMPUTERS

Computers are provided to assist in the learning process under the supervision of a teacher and are housed in each classroom and computer labs. Students will use classroom computers only with the teacher’s permission and presence.

GIFTED EDUCATION PROGRAM AND EVALUATION PROCESS

The Turner County School System provides gifted education programs for qualified students in grades Kindergarten through 12. For information regarding gifted services contact the Dr. Ginny Hall, Coordinator of the Gifted Education Program, at 567-3338.

Students may be nominated for consideration for a gifted evaluation by teachers, counselors, parents or guardians, peers, self, or other individuals with knowledge of the student’s abilities.  Nominations should be based on superior classroom performance, high achievement test scores (90% or above in total reading or total math on a NRT) and/or well above exceeds on the Georgia Milestones Assessment.  Parents can obtain a nomination form from gifted education teachers or through the gifted office, although this does not guarantee an evaluation. The eligibility team will decide if an evaluation is warranted, and will forward the referral for assessment to the gifted office.   

ELIGIBILITY CRITIERIA

A student is eligible for placement in the Gifted Education Program if he/she meets State of Georgia eligibility requirements in one of the following categories: Option A or Option B.

Option A.  Mental Ability and Achievement:

Grades K-2:    Total score of 99 percentile on a mental ability test and minimum achievement test score of 90 percentile in total reading, or total math, or basic composite.

Grades 3-12:   Total score of 96 percentile on a mental ability test and minimum achievement test score of 90 percentile in total reading, or total math, or basic composite.

Option B. Multiple Criteria (Grades K-12) – meeting criteria in 3 out of 4 categories below:

1. Mental Ability – 96 percentile minimum total or component score on a mental ability test

2. Achievement – 90 percentile minimum score in total reading, or total math, or basic composite on an achievement test                    

3. Creativity – 90 percentile minimum score on a creativity test

4. Motivation – Overall 88 academic average, during the last two years (grades 4-12) or 90 percentile on a motivational rating scale in grades K-4

Parental Rights: Parents have the right to have a conference to review all information regarding their child’s evaluation results.

Program Descriptions

Gifted students in grades K-8 may participate in resource or cluster content area or enrichment classes taught by gifted certified instructors, or through collaborative instruction in regular education classrooms, with contracts specifying differentiation.  Using thematic units, students receive in-depth study in a variety of subjects with “hands-on” projects that require the use of critical thinking, creative problem solving, and technology.  Alternate curriculum, such as the Great Books Reading Program and Renzulli on-line instruction are examples of resources used with gifted students.  Field trips are also planned to enhance specific learning objectives.

Continuation Policy

Students in the gifted program must maintain high academic standards in regular academic subjects as well as in their gifted classes.  A probationary period is provided for students who fail to meet performance criteria.  If a student fails to improve his/her performance after the probationary period, he/she is removed from the program. 

FOCUS SCHOOL IDENTIFICATION AND FLEXIBLE LEARNING PROGRAM

Turner County Elementary School has been identified as a Focus School, based on our 2011 composite CRCT scores. Since TCES did not make AYP due to the Students with Disabilities (SWD) subgroup not meeting the expected performance target in reading and math, TCES was placed in School Improvement beginning with the 2011-2012 school year. TCES is a Title I school identified as a Focus School for three years, due to our large within-school gap in the subject areas between our highest-achieving subgroup and the lowest-achieving subgroup. The Georgia Department of Education has assigned a School Improvement Specialist from our RESA to work with us through this process to support our achievement and assist with our improvement. TCES is required to offer a Flexible Learning Program (FLP), which is an alternative supplemental academic intervention to improve eligible Title I student achievement. The FLP allows greater flexibility in designing an extended learning program tailored to meet the needs of TCES to serve identified students requiring additional academic intervention. Students are identified based on disaggregated school level data and are served during the school day. Our goal at TCES is to continue to improve academic achievement of all students, including our SWD, and will implement strategies in an attempt to meet expected performance goals.

PUBERTY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Instruction regarding puberty is provided to all 5th grade students. Parents or legal guardians can review all instructional materials. A parent has the right to request, in writing, that a child not receive the instruction regarding sex education/AIDS. If such a request is made, an alternative health assignment will be provided for the student.

ASSESSMENT

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|Student services |

MEDICAL SERVICES

Students have access to a full-time registered nurse at TCES. The clinic is located in the front office.

• Head Lice: It is the position of Turner County Elementary School that the management of head lice should not disrupt the education process. The research shows that keeping kids with only nits out of school doesn't affect the spread of head lice, but it does hurt school attendance and student performance. Research does not support school exclusion for nits. When nits are found, the school nurse will monitor daily to ensure no live head lice are present. The school nurse, as student advocate and nursing expert, will serve as the medical authority in making a determination on when a child found to have active head lice can return to school. The school nurse retains an important role in educating children, parents, and teachers about head lice and dispelling myths and stigmas regarding lice infestation.

• Head lice, while a significant social problem, do not transmit disease to humans. Lice are a common occurrence in schools. When a child gets lice, it does not indicate neglect on the part of the parent and does not indicate that the child, or the environment, has not been kept clean. Transmission occurs by head-to-head contact with an infested person, or occasionally from infested hats, combs, pillows, jackets etc.

• Turner County Elementary will adhere to a no-lice policy.

• When a student is initially identified as having live head lice and/or nits within ½” from the scalp, the school nurse will contact the parent immediately for treatment.

• Children found to have live head lice and/or nits within ½” from the scalp will be readmitted to school only after treatment for head lice.

• Prior to readmission, the school nurse will verify that no live head lice are present.

• If the school nurse determines there are no live lice, the student may return to class. Thorough removal of all nits is strongly encouraged, but students may return to class if they have been treated, even though nits farther out the hair shaft than ½” from the scalp are present.

• Students with nits only will be rechecked daily or as needed until no nits are present. If live head lice are found at any time, the parents will be contacted to and treatment required. Children with live head lice may not remain at school.

• Any siblings of infested students who also attend a school in Turner County will also be checked for live lice and/or nits within ½” from the scalp by the school nurse.

• Students who come to school with multiple nits within ½” from the scalp following parental notification may be excluded from school at the discretion of the school administration until nits are removed.

MEDICATION/OVER-THE-COUNTER DRUGS

Any student requiring the use of prescription or over-the-counter drugs must leave them in the school nurse’s office. No medication of any type will be kept by any student at any time on school premises. This includes Tylenol, etc. and all other types of over-the-counter medication for any purpose. Exception: Asthma medication or epi-pen with written request from medical doctor stating the urgent need for student or teacher to have medication at all times)

STUDENT INSURANCE

Student insurance is available at a nominal cost and is optional to the general student body. It should be noted this insurance is the bare minimum. It will not cover all accidents and does not pay 100% of the medical cost incurred. The Turner County School System is not responsible for medical costs not covered by student insurance. All students participating in athletics are required to have student insurance or have on file a note at school from parents confirming their child has adequate coverage.

GUIDANCE SERVICES

The Guidance Counselors work with all students, parents, and teachers to make the educational process more effective and meaningful. Any student who has a special need or problem is encouraged to make an appointment with the counselor. All personal information is confidential.

CAFETERIA

Breakfast and lunch are served in the school cafeteria. Our cafeteria staff does a great job in providing nutritious, appealing meals to our students. We highly recommend our students eating in the cafeteria. If lunches are brought from home, they must be eaten in the cafeteria and should contain nutritious foods. Food may not be delivered or brought in from a restaurant. All students will eat free. Parents are responsible for any balances left from a previous year (s).

Rules in the cafeteria are:

1. Enter lunchroom quietly and stay in line.

2. Meal cards will be scanned.

3. When finished eating, remove trash, plates, forks, cartons, and napkins from the table.

4. Do not take food out of the lunchroom.

5. Maintain appropriate conduct at all times. Failure to follow rules of conduct will result in loss of lunch break privileges or other disciplinary action.

6. SOFT DRINKS are NOT permitted.

7. Students may not talk while music is playing in the cafeteria. (Music plays for 5 minutes and then is off for 5 minutes.) The students may whisper when the music is off.

LUNCH RECESS

After lunch, students will be escorted to the playground area by their teachers. Students are to conduct themselves appropriately at all times.

SNACKS

Snacks that meet the Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards will be sold for 75¢ at recess time. All trash should be placed in the proper receptacles. If these guidelines and cafeteria rules are not followed, students will lose their break time. Students may not bring snacks from home to be eaten at recess. They may eat any snack items that are in their lunch boxes at lunch.

HOMELESS CONTACT INFORMATION

Education for Homeless Children and Youth – Subtitle B of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11431 et seq.) that requires that each child of a homeless individual and each homeless youth has equal access to the same free, appropriate public education as provided to other children and youth. In accordance with the Act and State Board Rule 160-5-1-.28 (JBC), the term “Homeless Child and Youth” is defined as children and youth who are:

a. Sharing the house of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reason;

b. Living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to lack of alternative adequate accommodations;

c. Living in emergency or transitional shelters; abandoned in hospitals; or waiting foster care placement;

d. Moreover, the following children are included in the definition: children who have primary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for, or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings; children who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings; and migratory children who qualify as homeless because they are living in circumstances described above.

Turner County School System Homeless Liaison: TCES Contact:

Dr. Joy Gentry Ronny Blackstock

jgentry@turner.k12.ga.us rblackstock@turner.k12.ga.us

423 N. Cleveland Street 705 Hudson Avenue

Ashburn, GA 31714 Ashburn, GA 31714

(229) 567-3338 (229) 567-2461

TCES PARENT RESOURCE CENTER

Alice Nelson

anelson@turner.k12.ga.us

229-567-4412

El Centro de los Recursos para los Padres

TURNER COUNTY CONNECTION-COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS OF TURNER COUNTY

Turner County Connection-Communities In Schools of Turner County offers a number of student services and supports many programs offered by the schools. In an effort to determine the value of these programs and services, it is necessary to collect data concerning grades, behavior, attendance, and student attitudes.  Much of this data is required by the federal grants that make our programs/services possible.  Any information that is collected is completely confidential and is never used to refer to any individual student.  If you have any questions or concerns please call 567-2537.

|GENERAL |

FLOWER, GIFT, AND BALLOON DELIVERIES

Delivery of flowers, gifts, and/or balloons to students on special occasions will be accepted. These must be delivered to the office and will be kept in the office until the end of the school day. However, we will NOT accept any deliveries for Valentine’s Day. Please be advised that students are not allowed to take these items on the bus due to the possible hazard caused for the driver on the bus and safety of students. Students receiving any of these items must be parent pickup, so please plan accordingly.

VISITORS

Parents are always welcome to visit our school, but we ask that your visit be prearranged with your child’s teachers so that the administrators and front office staff can be notified ahead of time. All visitors must report to the main office so we can assist them with their needs and concerns. Visitors will be given an identifiable pass that helps us know who is in the building in order to maintain a safe and secure environment. Student visitors or social visits are not allowed because of the disruption to the teaching-learning process. Parent/teacher conferences must be scheduled during designated teacher planning periods or after school. All visitors must be appropriately dressed and in accordance the school dress code. Parents should prearrange visits with teachers to monitor their children in the classes.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks and books are furnished by the school system. They are the student’s responsibility and must be paid for if lost or damaged. Grades and report cards may be held until such payments are made.

TELEPHONES

The office phones are for official use only. Messages will be delivered only in the case of emergency. Students are not allowed to use the phones during the day.

SELLING AND SOLICITING

All fundraising and sales on the school campus must have authorization of the principal. Anything sold on the school campus or school buses by any group or organization, which is not a school sponsored group or organization, must have prior approval of the principal.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Students are responsible for any debts incurred. These include but are not limited to monies owed to the office, library, athletic department, lunchroom, teachers, school board in the case of damage assessments, fundraisers, or any settlements. Report cards may be withheld until payment arrangements are made.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g), provides that parents of students, regardless of age, who are or have been in attendance at an institution, have the right to inspect and review their educational records within a reasonable period of time (not to exceed 45 days) after making a request. Where records contain information of more than one student, the parents may see only what pertains to their child.

NOTICE OF RIGHTS OF STUDENTS AND PARENTS UNDER SECTION 504

Any student or parent or guardian (“grievant”) may request an impartial hearing due to the school system’s actions or inactions regarding your child’s identification, evaluation, or educational placement under Section 504. Requests for an impartial hearing must be in writing to the school system’s Section 504 Coordinator; however, a grievant’s failure to request a hearing in writing does not alleviate the school system’s obligation to provide an impartial hearing if the grievant orally requests an impartial hearing through the school system’s Section 504 Coordinator. The school system’s Section 504 Coordinator will assist the grievant in completing the written Request for Hearing. The Section 504 Coordinator may be contacted through the school system’s central office. Copies of the 504 Procedural Safeguards and Notice of Rights of Students and Parents Under Section 504 may be found at the system website or may be picked up at the central office or at any of the school offices.

Turner County Schools Section 504 System Coordinator

Michelle Owens

Turner County Board of Education

423 N. Cleveland Street - P.O. Box 609

Ashburn, GA 31714

229-567-3338

mowens@turner.k12.ga.us

|SAFETY AND RESPONSIBILITY |

FIRE ALARMS, TORNADO, INTRUDER, AND OTHER DRILLS

Emergency drills are required routinely to ensure the safety of all students, faculty, and staff. Fire drills are held on a monthly basis. Tornado and other emergency drills are also held periodically during the school year. Students should remain quiet and walk quickly to their pre-designated area during drills. Student cooperation is always imperative for the safety of everyone.

TOBACCO USE AND POSSESSION

No student shall possess, smoke, dip, or use tobacco products or tobacco paraphernalia on school property, nor shall a student have these items in his/her possession. These rules apply to and from school on the bus, at any time on school property, at school activities, or any school sponsored school activity. The TCES campus is 100% tobacco free. Visitors should serve as role models for all students and refrain from the use of tobacco while on the campus for any reason, including, but not limited to, the parent pick-up and drop-off times.

CELL PHONES AND BEEPERS

TCES students are not allowed to have phones at school. Students found in possession of these items will have them confiscated and parents will be required to pick them up. Repeat violators will necessitate disciplinary action being taken.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND/OR TOYS

Any electronic device or toy may detract from the normal school day and is forbidden. These may include but are not limited to radios, tape players, iPods, etc. Students found in possession of these items will have them confiscated and parents will be required to pick them up. Repeat violators will necessitate disciplinary action being taken.

BOTTLES /CANS/TRASH ON CAMPUS

Drink bottles and cans are not to be brought on campus at any time, including before, during, and after school. Students are encouraged to place all trash in appropriate containers.

LEAVING CLASS

If a student is out of class, they must have a hall pass given to them by a teacher. If a student has a medical problem which necessitates frequent bathroom visits, a note from a doctor is required.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Students taking P.E. are required to participate unless excused by a doctor for health reasons. Daily grades are given on the basis of participation. Appropriate clothing and shoes should be worn during P.E. Shorts must be worn under skirts or dresses. Students should not wear open shoes during their P.E. rotation.

|Student activities |

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips during the year support classroom study topics. All school rules of conduct and behavior apply on field trips. Signed parental permission slips must be on file for students to participate in each field trip. Any student, who does not follow directions, disregards a teacher and/or school official’s instructions, and/or who endangers the safety or security of others, may be denied the privilege of participating in future field trips.

|dress code |

The following guidelines are set to allow fashionable and acceptable dress. Any student violating the dress code will be required to change clothing. A parent will be notified to bring appropriate clothing. If a parent cannot be reached, the school will try to provide a change of clothing. If a student must leave school to change, the student will receive an unexcused tardy or absence for the time away from school.

Students are encouraged to observe a standard of grooming and dress consistent with the level of formality of the school situation.  The following dress code is in effect for students at Turner County Elementary:     

• All school attire should be neat, clean, and modest. Clothing should NOT be excessively short or tight.

• All jeans/slacks/shorts must fit snugly at the waist or small of the back and may NOT be worn sagging below the waistline.  They should be secured at the waist. In the event the student DOES NOT comply, he/she will be required to TUCK IN his/her shirt.

• Jean/slacks/shorts with writing on the buttocks area are inappropriate and may NOT be worn at school.

• Shoes should cover the feet and must be worn with shoestrings tied or buckles fastened.

• Flip-flops, shower shoes, bedroom slippers, slide-in shoes, and high-heeled shoes hinder safe student transition at school and are NOT allowed. Special occasions or school-sponsored fundraisers may allow for flip-flops to be worn, but they should NOT be worn at any other times.

• Shorts, skirts, and dresses must be an appropriate length. (Use the thumb test to determine appropriate length. With arms by their sides, shorts should reach the students’ thumbs.)

• Leggings are allowed to be worn only under appropriate length slacks, skirts or dresses (see above).

• All sleeveless tops must have straps that pass the THREE-finger test. Halter, spaghetti strap, or strapless tops are NOt allowed unless worn with an appropriate t-shirt underneath or with an appropriate button-up shirt over them.

• All shirts and t-shirts must be long enough to completely cover the midriff and back, and skin should NOT show.

• Clothing with gang/cult-related symbols, offensive messages, vulgar language, rude gestures, or advertisements for alcohol, tobacco or drugs are inappropriate and therefore shall NOT be worn.

• Hats, skullcaps, bandanas, etc. are inappropriate and should NOT be worn at school.  Special occasions or school-sponsored fundraisers may allow for specific hats to be worn.

Please do not allow your child's day to be interrupted by inappropriate attire.

|code of conduct |

TCES SCHOOL-WIDE EXPECTATIONS

1. Be prepared to learn. (SLANT)

2. Respect yourself, others and school property.

3. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.

4. Talk/Walk with teacher’s permission.

5. Leave gum, candy, toys, electronics, and other unacceptable items at home.

PBIS

The Turner County Schools are implementing a Positive Behavior Interventions and Support System (PBIS) beginning with the 2014-2015 school year. School-wide PBIS is a systemic framework for addressing challenging behaviors within the schools. The goal is to establish the social culture and behavioral supports needed for all students to achieve both social and academic success. School-wide PBIS is the behavioral part of the Response to Interventions (RTI) that is currently implemented in all the schools.

PBIS is not a packaged curriculum but rather a prevention-oriented approach to school-wide discipline that defines core elements that can be achieved through a variety of strategies. It focuses on the use of evidence-based practices and solid, effective data-based decision-making to improve academic and social contexts. PBIS provides additional interventions for students as their behavioral and/or social needs increase. At Turner County Elementary School, our faculty and staff will concentrate on helping students make WISE choices and choosing appropriate behavior on the school campus and on the bus. Our focus will be on being Safe, Respectful, and Responsible at all times.

School-Wide Discipline Plan

An effective school-wide discipline plan is more than a set of rules, expectations, and consequences; rather, it is a dynamic process that includes mechanisms designed to clarify expectations, establish procedures, improve consistency, elevate levels of supervision, identify responsibilities (students, parents, and teachers)—and it provides tools for behavior problem-solving, a method for evaluating the performance of the school-wide discipline plan, and a troubleshooting vehicle; i.e., a means of identifying aspects of the plan that need to be improved and/or modified over time.

The school’s primary goal is to educate, not to punish; however, when the behavior of an individual student comes in conflict with the rights of others, corrective actions may be necessary for the benefit of that individual and the school as a whole. Accordingly, students shall be governed by policies, regulations and rules set forth in the Code of Conduct.

The Turner County Elementary School will follow a progressive discipline model. The level of discipline assigned to a behavior is based on its severity and number of occurrences. Below is an explanation of the levels of discipline.

Level I infractions include minor classroom infractions handled by the teacher. (Examples: Breaking in line, Talking without permission/yelling out answers, Passing notes, Not following directions, Not completing work, Getting out of desk, Unprepared – forgetting homework or supplies (pencils, paper, books), Not returning signed papers/work, Chewing gum/eating candy in class, Playing in the restroom, Sleeping)

Level II infractions are more serious offenses that may or may not be referred to an administrator depending on severity and/or frequency. (Examples of Level II infractions: Chronic homework problems, Major horseplay, Inappropriate language, Cheating, Heated arguments, Refusal to comply, Minor destruction to school property/graffiti, Chronic classroom disruptions, Unauthorized location, Inappropriate hand gestures, Chronic level one problems.

Level III Infractions are very serious and require more severe consequences and always involve parents and school administrators. Depending on the severity of the disruptive behavior, these consequences may include corporal punishment, out-of-school suspension, in-school-suspension, police officials, school board action, and legal response, etc. These severely disruptive behaviors should always be referred to an administrator.

 Note: Infractions for fighting, arson, threatening a teacher, extortion, possession of drugs, weapons, etc. will be responded to in accordance with the school district’s code of conduct.

Note: Fighting at school, on a bus, at a bus stop, or at a school sponsored event will result in Out-Of-School Suspension. Parents must accompany the student back to school following a suspension for fighting. The student must meet with a school counselor before returning to class.

State Legislature requires the following statement: “Parents and guardians are encouraged to inform their children on the consequences, including potential criminal penalties, of underage sexual conduct and crimes for which a minor can be tried as an adult.”

TCES Code of Conduct

The TCES Code of Conduct includes student behavior during school hours, at school-related functions, on the school bus, and at the bus stops.  The following list provides a summary of offenses that may result in out-of-school suspension and a referral to the Juvenile Courts:

(1) verbal assault (including threatened violence), physical assault and battery upon and disrespectful conduct (including vulgar and profane language) toward school personnel and persons attending school functions;

(2) verbal assault (including threatened violence and sexual harassment), physical assault and battery (including sexual harassment) upon and disrespectful conduct (including vulgar and profane language) toward other students;

(3) failure to comply with compulsory attendance requirements;

(4) willful or malicious damage (including marking, defacing and destroying) real or personal property of the school or personal property of any person legitimately at school;

(5) inciting, advising or counseling others to engage in prohibited acts;

(6) possession of any weapon prohibited by Georgia law from being on a school campus;

(7) use or possession of illegal drugs or alcohol;

(8) willful and persistent violation of the student code of conduct;

(9) bullying; and

(10) "other unruly behavior" on school buses.6

Our code of conduct prohibits students using electronic and reflective devices on the school bus or at school bus stops (including cell phones; pagers; audible radios, tape and compact disc players without headphones, mirrors; lasers; flash cameras) and any other electronic or reflective device "in a manner which might interfere with the bus communications equipment or the school bus driver's operation of the school bus."

State law requires local school systems to prohibit students from committing acts of "physical violence" against a teacher, school bus driver, school official, or school employee.

A student alleged to have committed an act of physical violence of either category toward a school employee must be suspended pending a hearing by a disciplinary hearing officer, panel or tribunal according to the provisions of Georgia law.

A student making intentional physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with a school employee may be disciplined by short-term suspension, long-term suspension or expulsion.10 A student causing physical harm to the person of a school employee must be permanently expelled from the school system and also must be referred to the juvenile court with a request for a petition alleging delinquent behavior.

AUTHORITY OF THE PRINCIPAL

The principal is the designated leader of the school and, in concert with the staff, is responsible for the orderly operation of the school. In cases of disruptive, disorderly or dangerous conduct not covered in this Code, administrators may undertake corrective measures which he or she believes to be in the best interest of the school provided any such action does not violate school board policy or procedures.

DEFINITION OF DISCIPLINE TERMS

• Alcohol or Drugs: The use, possession, sale, or being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Arson: Use of fire to destroy or attempt to destroy property.

• Bullying: An act which occurs on school property, on school vehicles, at designated school bus stops, or at school related functions or activities, or by use of data or software that is accessed through a computer, computer system, computer network, or other electronic technology of a local school system, that is: (1) Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person, when accompanied by an apparent present ability to do so; or (2) Any intentional display of force such as would give the victim reason to fear or expect immediate bodily harm; (3) Any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, which a reasonable person would perceive as being intended to threaten, harass, or intimidate, that:

(A) Causes another person substantial physical harm within the meaning of Code Section 16-5-23.1 or visible bodily harm as such term is defined in Code Section 16-5-23.1; (B) Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student's education; (C) Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or (D) Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

• Chronically Disruptive Student: Whenever a teacher or principal identifies a student as being a chronic disciplinary problem student, the principal is responsible for notifying the parent by telephone call and by either certified mail or first class mail. The parent is invited to the school to observe the student in a classroom situation and to attend a conference with the principal, teacher or both to develop a behavioral correction plan. If, despite these efforts, a chronic disciplinary problem student is suspended from school for any period of time, a conference is to be scheduled with the parent prior to the student’s return to school and a behavioral correction plan is to be prepared. The refusal or failure of the parent to attend the conference does not prohibit the student from returning to school. Most importantly, the principal is responsible for noting in the student’s file the existence of a plan so that all teachers dealing with the student will have access to it.

• Disorderly Conduct: Language (profanity/vulgarity), behavior or dress which is disruptive to the orderly educational process.

• Extortion: Demanding money or something of value from another person in return for protection from violence or threat of violence.

• Fighting: Having or threatening physical contact with another person with the intent to inflict harm.

• Physical or Verbal Assault: Physical attack by one person or a group of persons on another who does not wish to engage in the conflict, including assault on any school official.

• Physical Violence: Intentionally making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of another or intentionally making physical contact which causes physical harm to another unless such physical contacts or physical harm were in defense of himself or herself), bullying, physical assault or battery of other persons on the bus, verbal assault of other persons on the bus, disrespectful conduct toward the school bus driver or other persons on the bus and other unruly behavior.

• Sexual Harassment: Unwarranted verbal invitations by males and females. Making a physical advance toward a member of the opposite sex.

• Tardiness: Arriving late to class or school.

• Theft: Taking, giving, or receiving property not belonging to you or signing a person’s name without that person’s permission.

• Tobacco (including smokeless tobacco): The use and/or possession in any form on school property or during a school activity.

• Truancy: Any absence which is not excused by parents or legal guardian (within approved school guidelines).

• Vandalism: Willful or malicious damage to real or personal property not belonging to you.

• Weapons:

The possession, use, handling, buying, selling, supplying, solicitation, threatening to use or transmitting of any weapon including, but not limited to, a firearm, dangerous weapon or hazardous object, or any other instrument capable of inflicting bodily injury as a weapon, or any instrumentality represented to be a weapon at school, in the school safety zone or at a school-sponsored or school related event, is a violation of school board policy and the Code of Conduct.

Any student who is determined to have brought a firearm or dangerous weapon to school, to the school safety zone, or to a school-sponsored or school-related function shall be expelled from school for a period of not less than one calendar year; provided, however, that a hearing officer (or other authority presiding over the case such as a tribunal, panel, administrator, or superintendent) or board of education shall have the authority to modify such expulsion requirement on a case-by case basis.

As used in this rule, the following terms shall have the definitions set forth below:

“Dangerous weapon” shall have the same meaning as set forth in O.C.G.A. § 16-11-121, as amended from time to time. (O.C.G.A. § 16-11-121-rocket launcher, bazooka, recoilless rifle, mortar, hand grenade or similar weapon designed to explode, and as amended)

“Firearm” means a handgun, rifle, shotgun, starter gun or other weapon which will or can be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or electrical charge.

“Fireworks” shall have the same meaning as set forth in O.C.G.A. § 25-10-1, as amended from time to time.

“Hazardous object” means any dirk, bowie knife, switchblade knife, ballistic knife, any other knife having a blade two or more inches, straight-edge razor, razor blades, spring stick, knuckles, whether made from metal, thermoplastic, wood, or other similar material, blackjack, any bat, club or other bludgeon-type weapon, or any flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a manner as to allow them to swing freely, which may be known as a nun chahka, nunchuk, nunchaku, shuriken, or fighting chain, or any disc, of whatever configuration, having at least two points or pointed blades which is designed to be thrown or propelled and which may be known as a throwing star or oriental dart, or any instrument of like kind, any nonlethal air gun, and any stun gun or Taser as defined in subsection (a) of O.C.G.A. § 16-11-106. For purposes of this policy, “hazardous object” shall also mean any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas bomb, grenade, rocket, missile, mine or similar device, including fireworks as defined in O.C.G.A. § 25-10-1, not including sparklers, which are non-explosive or contain negligible amounts of mixture. Such term shall not include any of these instruments used for classroom work authorized by the teacher.

“School Safety Zone” means in or on any real property or building owned by or leased to any school or postsecondary institution.

Students believed to have violated this rule or the law shall be reported by the teacher or other employee to the principal or his or her designee, and by the latter to the superintendents and then to the appropriate police authorities and district attorney pursuant to OCGA § 20-2-1184. Administrator must report violations of this rule to the State of Georgia-State Codes: Handguns-25, Rifles-26, Knife-22, Other weapons-23.

All violations of this rule shall constitute Level III offenses except offenses involving a knife having a blade of less than two inches long or other instrumentalities represented to be a weapon, which shall constitute Level II offenses.

Toys such as cap pistols, nerf guns or the like, water guns, and rubber knives are not permitted. Please caution your child concerning toys that resemble weapons. Possession of these items can result in suspension from school.

BULLYING

Bullying is prohibited, and there are penalties for violating the prohibition. If a student is found to have engaged in bullying or physical assault or battery of another person, the parent, guardian, or other person who has control or charge of the student will be notified and required to meet with school officials. The parent, guardian, or other person who has control or charge of the victim will also be notified. A student committing an act of bullying for the third time must be assigned to an alternative program.

If the bullying offense occurs on the school bus, the parent or guardian must meet with school officials for the purpose of forming a school bus behavior contract for that student prior to his/her being allowed back on the bus. This contract will provide for appropriate progressive discipline which may include, assigned seating, on-going parental contact, and suspension of riding privileges.

DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES

The Code of Conduct provides a systematic process of behavioral correction in which inappropriate behaviors are followed by consequences. Disciplinary actions are designed to teach students self-discipline and to help them substitute inappropriate behaviors with those that are consistent with positive character traits. Students who exhibit problem behaviors will be subjected to certain disciplinary actions. Depending upon the seriousness of the behavior problem, one or more of the following actions will be taken by school officials as outlined by the Code of Conduct.

Administrators will follow the following steps when students are referred to the office for level II offenses (Level III Offenses will result in OSS or ISS):

• 1st Office Referral: (Options) Administrative Conference, Parent Contact by phone, letter, or Parent Outreach; additional consequence at administrative discretion.

• 2nd Office Referral: Assigned to ISS and/or Corporal Punishment; Parent Contact by phone, letter, or Parent Outreach

• 3rd Office Referral: Assigned to ISS and/or Corporal Punishment; required parent conference.

• 4th Office Referral: Assigned to ISS until parent attends conference with administrative team (administrative discretion); parents will be informed of future consequences including possible Out-of-School Suspension.

• 5th Office Referral: ISS/OSS at administrative discretion and parent contact.

• Additional Referrals: Conference for Chronic Disruption and contract developed

Definition of Consequences

• Informal Talk

A school official will talk to the student and try to reach an agreement regarding how the student should behave.

• Conference

A formal conference is held between the student and one or more school official. During this conference, the student must agree to change his/her behavior.

• Corporal Punishment

Corporal punishment or “paddling” will not be used as a first line of discipline. It will be administered in the presence of a witness who must be either the principal, the assistant principal or someone designated by the principal or assistant principal to serve as a witness.

Parents not wishing Corporal Punishment to be used as a disciplinary action with their child must make that request in writing.

• Parental Involvement

A legal guardian is notified by telephone, personal contact, or letter. A conference may be conducted between the student, his/ her legal guardian, appropriate school officials, and other individuals involved.

• Level I Consequences include but are not limited to: 

o Remote Control Management. One of the best examples of remote control management consequences is the proverbial “teacher look.”

o Behavior Encouragement: Examples: “Let’s get back to work.” “I want you to start doing your math now.” Notice that the teacher is asking the student to start something as opposed to telling the student to stop doing something.

o Verbal Warning

o Attention Call Waiting Signal: One of the best examples is to raise five fingers with the silent message. “Give Me Five.” This is an indication that all students are to give complete attention to the teacher. This also requires students to raise their hands with the “Give Me Five” signal so that students will see that other students are attending to the teacher’s directive.

o Effective Question Technique: “When you choose to talk while I’m trying to teach, does that make it more difficult for me to teach?” Note: effective questions have three components:

  Component 1: an emphasis on choice

Component 2: a specific mention of behavior to be improved

Component 3: a value judgment component.

o Touch Pad Technique: The teacher has an adhesive set of stickers on each student’s desk, which include a yellow and red sticker. The teacher, using proximity, touches the color sticker on the desk that communicates to the student that a warning is being administered or a limit message.

o The Barometer Point Reduction.*

o The Desk Pad Barometer.*

o The Correction Card: Correction Cards may include the following examples: “This is a friendly warning.” “Be wise and stop.”  

o Campus beautification.

• Level II Consequences include but are not limited to:

o The After Class Post Card: The teacher simply has a post card, which reads, “After Class Post Card – See me after class.” The teacher places it on the student’s desk without verbal comment; however, the student is informed by the card that he/she is to conference with the teacher after class. The conference is very brief.

o Removal of the student’s name from the On-Task Board.*

o The Behavior Check Up, Last To Leave consequence. The student who receives this consequence is the last to leave the class at the end of the period or day. At the close of the period the teacher conferences with the student relative to conducting a “checkup” on the student’s behavior, in accordance with a previously devised plan.

o Moving a student to another seat.

o Silent lunch.

o Lunch detention.

o After school detention.

o Campus beautification.

o Time out (Courtesy Chair).*

o The Apology Slip.*

o Loss of privileges.

o The Discipline Telephone Script.

o Development of a Personal Improvement Plan.

o The Boomerang Book. The Boomerang Book is a strategy in which the teachers communicate with the parents on a daily basis concerning a student’s behavior.

o The Better Choices Sheet.*

o Teacher-Student Contract.

• Level III Consequences are very serious consequences that always involve parents and school administrators. Depending on the severity of the disruptive behavior, these consequences may include police officials, school board action, and legal response, etc. These severely disruptive behaviors should always be referred to an administrator. Infractions for fighting, arson, threatening a teacher, extortion, possession of drugs, fire arms, etc. will be responded to in accordance with the school district’s code of conduct.

o In-School Suspension

o Out-of-School Suspension

o Corporal Punishment

• Detention

Faculty and staff for minor discipline or tardiness issues may assign detention. Detention will be served in a designated room from 3:20-4:00 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays. Students serving detention will be brought to the office at 4:00 for parent pick-up. Parents should arrive in time to pick up students promptly at 4:00.

• In-School-Suspension (ISS)

ISS is an alternative to out-of-school suspension. It is designed to remove students from regular school activities and allow those students to be counted present and not lose academic credit. ISS will be used for offenses where poor student judgment has been used and no physical or malicious offense has taken place. Students serving in ISS will also perform campus beautification.

• Out of School Suspension

The student is excluded from school or classes and related activities for a period of up to ten (10) school days. The student is informed that he/she is subject to a short suspension and may discuss his/her side of the situation with the appropriate school official. Parents will be notified of any suspension.

• Bus/Lunchroom/Extra-curricular Suspension

Students will be suspended from riding the bus, excluded from the lunchroom, and/or extracurricular activities when their behavior dictates.

• Maximum Punishments

The maximum punishments for an offense include long-term suspension or expulsion, including permanent expulsion, will be determined only by a disciplinary tribunal as outlined in the Turner County Board of Education policies.

CONDUCT AT AFTER SCHOOL EVENTS

Students and spectators are expected to conduct themselves in a positive manner while attending any and all school activities. Those students and spectators who cannot exhibit appropriate behavior will not be allowed to attend school events. No loitering on school grounds after programs, athletic events, or any school sponsored activity.

BUS CONDUCT

Avoid the Danger Zones!

Always remain 10 steps away from the bus to be out of the "Danger Zone" and where the driver can see you. Always cross the street in front of the bus. Never go behind the bus.

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School Bus Safety!

To be safe when they travel to and from school, follow these simple safety rules:

AT THE BUS STOP:

• Always walk to the bus stop. Never run.

• Walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left facing traffic.

• Always go to the bus stop about five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.

• While at the bus stop, wait in a safe place away from the road. Do not run and play while waiting.

• Never speak to strangers at the bus stop and never get into the car with a stranger. Always go straight home and tell your parents if a stranger tries to talk to you or pick you up.

• Wait for the bus to arrive, watch for red flashing lights and the stop sign to be extended, and cross only when all traffic has stopped. Look left, right, and left again before crossing.

ON THE BUS:

• Go directly to a seat. Remain seated and facing forward for the entire ride.

• Talk quietly (so the driver will not be distracted).

• If you need to talk to the bus driver: wait for the bus to stop, raise your hand, and call the driver's name.

• Never throw things on the bus or out the windows. Never play with the emergency exits.

• Keep the aisles clear at all times.

• If there is an emergency, listen to the driver and follow instructions.

EXIT THE BUS:

• When getting off the bus make sure you walk (not run) three more steps away from the door. This is the best place to be around a bus. Stay away from the bus wheels and watch out for moving cars!

• Once you get off the bus, go straight home so an adult will know where you are.

• Only get on and off the bus at your designated stop. If you need to get off the bus somewhere else, you will need to have a note from your parents.

• If you leave something on the bus, never return to the bus to get it. The driver may not see you come back and they may begin moving the bus. Also, if you drop something near the bus, tell the bus driver before you attempt to pick it up, so they will know where you are.

Always remain 10 steps away from the bus to be out of the "Danger Zone" and where the driver can see you. Always cross the street in front of the bus. Never go behind the bus.

|Bus Evacuations |

| |

|During a bus evacuation students should always remain calm and follow the instructions of the bus driver.  Bus evacuation drills are done two times a |

|year, so students, in the event that an accident should occur, will have the knowledge of what is expected of them.  All field trips and athletic trips|

|will have bus evacuation drills.   |

| |

|Front Door Evacuation – The bus driver will inform the students to evacuate through the front door.  He/she will instruct a helper to stand outside the|

|front door to assist students exiting the bus while he/she dismisses the students from the bus.  The helper will lead the students at least 100 feet |

|from the bus to a safe location that the bus driver has informed the helper of.  Once the bus driver has dismissed the students and is at the back of |

|the bus, he/she will return to the front of the bus checking to make sure all students are off the bus.  Then the bus driver will join the students.  |

| |

|Rear Door Evacuation – The bus driver will inform the students to evacuate through the rear door.  He/she will walk to the rear of the bus and instruct|

|a helper(s) to open the rear door and take position outside the rear door.  The bus driver will dismiss the students and the helpers will assist them |

|out the rear door.  (Students should sit and slide out the rear door and not jump.)  Students will be instructed to a safe place at least 100 feet away|

|from the bus.  Once the bus driver has dismissed all students he/she will check the bus to make sure the bus is empty and exit the bus and join his/her|

|students.  |

| |

|Side Door Evacuation – The bus driver will inform the student to evacuate through the side door.  Once the driver has determined it is safe to evacuate|

|he/she will instruct a helper(s) to take position outside the side door.  The bus driver will then dismiss the students and the helpers will assist |

|them off the bus.  They will be instructed to a safe location at least 100 feet away from the bus.  Once the bus driver has dismissed all students |

|he/she will check the bus to make sure the bus is empty and exit the bus and join his/her students.  |

| |

|Front and Rear Door Evacuation – The bus driver will inform the students to evacuate through the front and rear doors.  He/She will instruct a |

|helper(s) to open the rear door and take position outside the door and a helper to take position outside the front door.  The bus driver will then |

|dismiss the students and the helpers will assist them off the bus.  They will be instructed to a safe location at least 100 feet away from the bus.  |

|Once the bus driver has dismissed all students he/she will check the bus to make sure the bus is empty and exit the bus and join his/her students.  |

| |

|Front, Rear and Side Door Evacuation – The bus driver will inform the students to evacuate through the front, rear and side doors. He/She will |

|instruct helpers to open the rear and side doors and take position outside the doors and a helper to take position outside the front door.  The bus |

|driver will then dismiss the students and the helpers will assist them off the bus.  They will be instructed to a safe location at least 100 feet away |

|from the bus.  Once the bus driver has dismissed all students he/she will check the bus to make sure the bus is empty and exit the bus and join his/her|

|students. |

| |

|Using Emergency Hatches, Windows and Windshields – In the event no door can be used, the emergency hatches, windows and windshields can be used for |

|evacuation but will not be practiced in emergency drills. |

Bus Misconduct

The following conduct is forbidden by law on a school bus in the state of Georgia:

Physical violence, (defined as intentionally making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of another or intentionally making physical contact which causes physical harm to another unless such physical contacts or physical harm were in defense of himself or herself), bullying, physical assault or battery of other persons on the bus, verbal assault of other persons on the bus, disrespectful conduct toward the school bus driver or other persons on the bus and other unruly behavior.

School bus stops are governed by the school code of conduct. Students will be expected to behave themselves in such a way so as to facilitate a learning environment for themselves and other students, showing respect each other and school district employees, and obeying student behavior policies. Violations of the code of conduct at school bus stops and at events hosted by or participated in by Turner County Schools will result in punitive action being taken at the discretion of the building level administration.

Other misconduct on the bus will come under the progressive discipline policy.

Parents are encouraged to become familiar with the Code of Conduct and to be supportive of it in their daily communication with their children and others in the community.

INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

(See BOE Policy at turner.k12.ga.us)

The Turner County Board of Education believes that the use of the Internet in instructional programs is an educational tool, which facilitates communication, innovation, resource sharing, and access to information. Due to the complex nature of accessible networks and the magnitude of potential information available to students utilizing the Internet, the board believes comprehensive guidelines in the form of administrative procedures are warranted in order to serve the educational needs of students. The Board, through its administrative staff, reserves the right to monitor all computer and Internet activity by students. Staff and students must be advised that privacy in the use of the Internet is not guaranteed.

Since the computer and Internet usage is now such an integral part of the instructional process, all students will be granted access to such resources. In the event that a parent/guardian objects to the use of such resources by their child, the objection must be presented, in writing, to the principal of the school where the child attends within 10 days after the student enters the school. In the event that such an objection is made, the student shall not be penalized but will use other conventional resources for study and research.

|Parental acknowledgement |

Handbook:

I have read the students handbook with my child and fully understand the code of conduct. As a parent, I pledge to support the administration, classroom teachers, and school staff in assuring my child’s adherence to this code to help promote an orderly and safe environment in which all students can learn. I understand that if I object to any of the policies and procedures contained in this student/parent handbook, my first step is to submit, in writing, a letter to the principal requesting that alternative measures be considered regarding my child.

Transportation:

The Turner County School System furnishes school bus transportation to all eligible students. In order to ensure the maximum safety for each of these students, we are asking your cooperation in seeing that all transportation regulations are obeyed. These regulations are being enforced to ensure that your child will experience safe trips to and from school. At times we have experienced conduct problems on our buses which have necessitated disciplinary action for those involved. So that you and your child may fully understand what is expected, the bus rules and expectations are included in this handbook. We hope you will discuss the importance of good behavior with your child. With the help of all parents, we are confident we will have a safe school year on our buses. Please sign at the bottom of the page indicating that you have explained the rules for bus conduct to your child.

Confidentiality:

Turner County Connection offers a number of student services and supports many programs offered by the schools. In an effort to determine the value of these programs and services, it is necessary to collect data concerning grades, behavior, attendance, and student attitudes.  Much of this data is required by the federal grants that make our programs/services possible.  Any information that is collected is completely confidential and is never used to refer to any individual student.  If you have any questions or concerns please calling 567-3413.

Health Curriculum:

I agree for my child to participate in the K-5 Good Touch/Bad Touch and 4-5 Puberty Education.

Internet Access:

I grant approval for my child to utilize the Internet and other school-based technology for teacher directed activities in compliance with the Turner County Schools Acceptable Internet Use Policy.

Attendance Protocol:

I have read and understand the attendance protocol for Turner County Schools.

Screening:

I grant approval to TCES to administer hearing, vision, dental and health screenings as needed.

Field Trips:

I give permission for my child to participate in school sponsored field trips. (This includes walking field trips as well as field trips requiring bus transportation.)

Media Release:

Throughout the year, student photographs, videotapes and quotes may be used in Turner County Schools’ publications or by the media in a legal manner for the internal or external promotional/informational activities of the Turner County School System. Your child may be interviewed and/or photographed by representatives of the external news media in relation to any and all coverage of the Turner County School System in which they are involved. We assume your child can be included in special media events unless you tell us otherwise. If you do not want your child's photo, video, quote or name to be published, parents/guardians should notify the student's school principal annually in writing.

Teacher Qualifications:

Parents, upon request, will be provided information regarding the professional qualifications of their child’s classroom teachers. Parents will be notified of any teacher that is not considered highly qualified by the state.

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Parent Acknowledgement

I, _______________________________________, have read and acknowledge full understanding of the Turner County Elementary School Student/Parent Handbook of Policies, Code of Conduct, and Administrative Procedures for the 2014-2015 school year and pledge support of administration, teachers, and staff in assuring my child’s adherence to all policies and procedures.

Print Parent Name: ___________________________________________

Parent Signature: ____________________________________________

Date: ____________________________

Parent Comments: Please note and explain if you do not agree with any of the above statements. _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please detach this page, sign, date, and have your child return it to his/her teacher.

Turner County Elementary School

Vickie A. Brown, Principal

Bernard Joiner, K-2 Assistant Principal

Zetta Daniels, 3-5 Assistant Principal

705 Hudson Avenue

Ashburn, Georgia 31714

229-567-2461

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TCES

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