Student/Parent Handbook2017-2018

Sheila Gann, Principal

CATS: Rules and Expectations Choose to follow the rules

Act Responsibly Treat others with respect Stay safeSchool Motto “Expect Excellence” District Motto “One Team, One Goal, High Levels of Learning for All!

DES colors are Purple and GoldDES mascot is the Wildcat

Grade Levels PreK-8th GradeSchool Address-1759 Mike Muncey Road, McMinnville, TN 37110

School Telephone (931)-934-2301School Fax (931)-934-2092

http://des.warrenschools.com/School Hours 7:45 a.m.-2:45 p.m.

This student handbook is a compilation of the policies, procedures, and behavioral expectations that are intended to guide and assist students during the school term. Complete accuracy of information is the intended goal of this handbook. This handbook however, because of limited space, does not precisely mimic the printed page of board policy. The school administration will defer to board policy in all questions arising concerning policies or procedures contained in this handbook. Please be aware that as a living document board policy is subject to change. Please know that your school administration will make every effort to make students aware of changes if and when they occur. Please go over this handbook carefully with your child. Please sign the form indicating that you have read the information in this handbook and information about our School-Parent Compact. These forms should be signed and returned to your child’s teacher.

Welcome!Dear Parents and Students,

We would like to welcome you as part of our Wildcat Family whether this is your first year at Dibrell Elementary or the last as you are graduating from the eighth grade. No matter the length of time you have been with us, we hope that you take an active role in our school and the learning process. Our faculty and staff’s purpose is to provide the best education that will help students achieve academic excellence within a warm, safe, and caring environment. We must all work together to attain goals that have been set. We look forward with excitement and a positive attitude as we work together this school year.

We believe that it is our responsibility to provide opportunities for every child to achieve excellence academically, socially, and emotionally within a safe learning environment. We believe our students can obtain 100% achievement: no excuses. We also believe that it is important to foster and maintain a strong working relationship with parents to ensure students develop the character and skills needed for today and for their college and career futures.

The mission of Dibrell Elementary School is to prepare the whole child for a successful learning journey.

Professionally yours,

Sheila Gann, M.A. Principal

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On the First Day of School

On the first day of school, we welcome you to walk your child to class. This a BIG day for everyone! It is perfectly normal for some of our younger students to become upset at the thought of a parent/guardian leaving. This is also a stressful time for parents! After the first day, your 1st -8th students will walk to his or her classroom with classmates. Kindergarten students may be walked down during phase-in days only. Teachers will be up their classes each morning from the bus room area. The longer the goodbye, the more difficult the separation may be.

Philosophy

The philosophy of Dibrell Elementary School is to assure that, within a nurtured environment, each of our diverse students achieves literacy, appropriate core competencies, success, and becomes a responsible and compassionate citizen.

We Believe….

We will teach our students.We will like our students.We will teach to the Common Core standards.We will have expectations for our students.We will embrace and use the data.We will constantly reexamine what we do.We will be accountable.We will use school time wisely.We will use the community.We will expand the time that students-particularly

struggling students have in school.We will have high quality, dedicated, and

competent office and building staff that feel they are part of the educational mission of the school.

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DIBRELL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

PARENT/STUDENT/TEACHER/PRINCIPAL COMPACTParent/Guardian Agreement____I want my child to succeed. Therefore, I will:____See that my child is punctual and attends school regularly.____Support the school discipline policy.____Read with my child and let my child see me read.____Read and review all information my child brings home from school.____Supervise the completion of homework and home activities of my child.____Set aside a time each evening just for school work.____Provide a quiet place for my child to work.____Attend parent/teacher conferences for my child.____Attend at least two functions. (Ex: Open House, Family Nights, etc.)

Parent/Guardian’s Signature Date________

Student Agreement____It is important that I work to best of my ability. Therefore, I will:____Attend school regularly and be punctual.____Return my assignments and home activities completed and on time.____Follow the school and classroom rules.____Respect my parents, classmates, teachers and other people in the community.____Come to school each day with pencils, paper and other necessary tools for learning.

Student’s Signature Date________

Teacher Agreement____It is important that students achieve. Therefore, I will:____Provide a caring learning environment where your child can be held responsible for learning.____Provide an enriched and challenging curriculum aligned with the state core curriculum.____Provide appropriate and meaningful homework assignments for students.____Keep you informed of your child’s progress on a regular basis.____Support and attend school functions.

Teacher’s Signature Date________

Principal Agreement____I support this form of parental involvement. Therefore, I will:____Provide a positive atmosphere for learning.____Provide an environment that allows for communication among the teacher, parent, and student.____Support and attend school functions.

Principal’s Signature Date_________

Pg. 3ACCELERATED READING PROGRAM

Our school participates in the Accelerated Reading Program where students are tested on their comprehension of books they have read. The PTO sponsors many incentives throughout the school year for students who reach their reading goals. *Students caught cheating on AR Tests will not be allowed to attend the PTO AR Field Trip and will receive a zero for their AR Grade. Students must achieve 100 points with 85% to attend this trip.

ATTENDANCE/TARDINESS

To receive an excused tardy when late to school, the student must have either:1. A doctor’s statement2. An official court notice3. A parent with student and approval by the administration. (Personal illness will be excused.)4. Funeral Note

Students arriving at school after 7:45 a.m. must report to the office for a tardy slip. Likewise, students in departmentalized classes are expected to be in class on time for each period. Students reporting late to school or signed out early may accumulate time counting towards a day’s absence. Students may be required to miss free time or extracurricular activities to make up work missed due to being tardy.

Tardiness/Sign-Out District Guideline2017-18 School Year

Being at school and in class on time is essential for optimum teaching, learning, and earning of credit and promotion to the next grade.   School bus transportation is provided free of charge to students in Warren County.   For this reason, tardiness related to car problems, traffic, oversleeping, etc. are not valid reasons for tardiness.

School begins at 7:45am and ends at 2:45pm.   Due to heavy volumes of traffic around 7:30am, it is advised that you plan accordingly.   Students must be in their classrooms when the 7:45am bell rings, or they will be tardy and must report to the office for a tardy slip to be admitted to class.   Never drop your child off if he/she is tardy, without coming in the building to sign the student in.

Tardy and Sign out District Guideline Elementary/Middle School

Three(3) tardies or unexcused early dismissals within the same quarter will result in a warning being issued and the parent notified by the attendance clerk.

On the 4 th tardy or unexcused early dismissal within the same quarter, the student will receive 2 hours of After School Instruction (ASI) and the parent will be called for a conference at the school.

On the 5 th tardy or unexcused early dismissal within the same quarter, the student will have a mandatory meeting with the school Principal and/or District Attendance Director and student will be placed on an attendance contract for the remainder of the quarter.   If the student is out of zone the student will be required to attend the school they are zoned to attend.

Every student is expected to be in attendance each day unless excused due to the student or a member of his/her immediate family being ill, a death in the family, the observance of a religious holiday, extreme weather conditions, or approved school-related activity.When a student is absent a note is required. This note is to be presented to the student’s homeroom teacher within three (3) days of the absence. Warren County School Board policy states that if and/or when a student commits his/her (5th) unexcused absence a letter and/or phone call will be sent to the parent or guardian, by the school in which the child is enrolled. If and/or when a student commits his/her (6th) unexcused absence, that student’s name and the facts of such unlawful absence can be reported to the juvenile authorities.

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BAD WEATHER

During the school year, school is sometimes canceled due to bad weather. Listen to your radio and School Messenger (All Call) for information on school cancellation or delay. Please do not call the school to learn of cancellations... our phones are incredibly busy on these days, and we need to get pertinent information to our students. If school has been canceled the previous day, listen to the radio to learn if there is a delay in the school starting time or if schools are on regular schedule. Often, information about early dismissals is on the radio or School Messenger before individual schools have been notified by the Central Office. When school is delayed due to bad weather, teachers are not required to come in early for extra duty. The doors will be opened 45 minutes prior to the announced time for school to begin.

BULLYING

The Warren County School Board has adopted a policy (JCAD) to address this problem whether the actions occur at school or off campus. Bullying that begins off-campus can be considered school-related if it interferes with school activities, causes a disruption at school or interferes with the rights of students.Bullying is an ongoing physical or verbal mistreatment where there is an imbalance of power and the victim (target) is exposed repeatedly to negative actions on the part of one or more other students. Behaviors associated with bullying are intimidating types of behavior such as: offensive name calling (verbal and written), aggressive personal contact, threats (verbal and written), intimidating body language, destruction or theft of property, invading personal space, intentional exclusion.Students and staff should report any incidents of bullying or intimidation to the school counselor. The counselor will report the incident to the principal.

CAFETERIA BEHAVIOR AND VISITORS

Acceptable behavior and good table manners are expected at all times. Students unwilling to use appropriate table manners (mixing foods, yelling out, purposefully discussing gross subjects, etc.) may be isolated during lunchtime and receive disciplinary action. Lunch is an important social time for our students, and we want everyone to enjoy this time! You are welcome to come and eat lunch with your child on their birthday and holiday meals. Please sign in through the office and receive a Visitor’s Pass before proceeding to the cafeteria.

CHILD NEGLECT/ABUSE POLICY

According to TCA 37-1-412 anyone having suspicion or information suggesting child abuse/neglect is required to report to the Department of Children Services 1-877-237-0026. Students should tell their teacher, guidance counselor, nurse, or other school employee if they feel they are being neglected, hurt, or abused by someone or if they know a friend who is neglected or abused.

CHANGE-CHECKS-DEBTS

The office will not give change or cash personal checks. As a courtesy the school will accept personal checks for pictures, yearbooks, etc. However, if a check is returned from the bank a service fee may be charged to the check writer. Any unpaid debts will result in the student’s report card being held until the debt is paid.

CODE OF BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE

The following policies and rules are not intended to be all encompassing. They are intended to provide an understanding of student expectations, which are conducive to the promotion of good character and citizenship.Students are to conduct themselves in an orderly and acceptable manner at all times. Students are subject to the policies and rules of Dibrell Elementary School at any time they are on school grounds. This also includes any school-sponsored activity conducted away from school or after regular school hours. All students are responsible to each teacher or assistant at all times and are expected to behave in a respectful manner toward all school personnel.Good behavior will be rewarded weekly in our (PBS) Positive Behavior System known as SWIS that will be implemented during the 2017-2018 school year.

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Dibrell Elementary Schools

Rules & ExpectationsCATS:

Choose to follow the rulesAct ResponsiblyTreat others with respectStay safe

Hallway ExpectationsTo “Act Responsibly” we will:* Respect other classes by being quiet* Keep all interactions free of horseplayTo “Treat Others With Respect” we will:* Keep hands, feet, and other objects to ourselves* Pick up anything that needs to be picked up* Walk on the right side of the hallwayTo “Stay Safe” we will:* Always walk and stay in line* Stay in classroom after 2:30* Report unsafe acts or situations

Restroom ExpectationsTo “Act Responsibly” we will:* Use facilities as intended* Use quiet voices* Report problems to an adultTo “Treat Others With Respect” we will:* Be quick* Be respectful of other people’s privacy* Use restroom supplies appropriatelyTo “Stay Safe” we will:* Keep restrooms clean* Travel directly to and from the restroom* Refrain from horseplay

Cafeteria ExpectationsTo “Act Responsibly” we will:* Clean up area after eating* Stand in line appropriately* Leave on timeTo “Treat Others With Respect” we will:* Keep food where it belongs* Refrain from horseplay* Enter and leave quietly* Listen and follow instructions of AssistantsTo “Stay Safe” we will:* Stay in our seats and ask permission to get up* Walk* Be silent when lights go out

Morning Bus Room ExpectationsTo “Act Responsibly” we will:* Line up for breakfast when our grade is called* Use inside voicesTo “Treat Others With Respect” we will:* Keep hands, feet, and other objects to ourselves* Listen and follow instructions of Teachers* Keep gym cleanTo “Stay Safe” we will:* Go straight to gym or cafeteria* Stay in assigned seating area* Stay seated* Use restroom with permission before 7:30* Refrain from horseplay

Playground ExpectationsTo “Act Responsibly” we will:* Play safely* Share equipment* Put trash in proper placeTo “Treat Others With Respect” we will:* Use equipment appropriately* Demonstrate good sportsmanship* Treat others the way we want to be treated* Use appropriate languageTo “Stay Safe” we will:* Listen for teacher signal and respond accordingly* Remain in designated area* Only leave area with an adult

Assembly & Field Trip ExpectationsTo “Act Responsibly” we will:* Report problems to adults* Keep track of belongings* Keep all interactions free of horseplayTo “Treat Others With Respect” we will:* Stay within your own personal space* Keep hands, feet, and objects to ourselves* Respond appropriately with good manners* Sit appropriately* Use appropriate voicesTo “Stay Safe” we will:* Stay with designated group* Follow all safety rules

After School Bus Room ExpectationsTo “Act Responsibly” we will:* Leave room quickly and go straight to gym* Use inside areas* Line up appropriately when bus is calledTo “Treat Others With Respect” we will:* Keep hands, feet, and other objects to ourselves* Respond appropriately with good manners* Sit appropriately in assigned area* Use appropriate voices* Help smaller students onto busTo “Stay Safe” we will:* Always walk and stay in correct bus line* Follow all safety rules

Car Rider ExpectationsTo “Act Responsibly” we will:* Leave room quickly and quietly* Stand still and listen for name to be called* Have all our belongings/books/homeworkTo “Treat Others With Respect” we will:* Keep hands, feet, and other objects to ourselves* Listen and follow instructions of Assistants* Go to car quicklyTo “Stay Safe” we will:* Go only when signal given and cars are stopped* Stay quiet and listen for directions* Refrain from horseplay

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Dibrell Elementary SchoolOFFICE DISCIPLINE REFERRAL

Name_________________________

Date_________________________

Time of Incident _______________

Grade: K 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Classroom Teacher ____________

Referring Staff________________

Minor Problem Behavior Major Problem BehaviorOthers Involved:

Teacher Staff Peers Substitute Bus Driver None

Classroom Managed: Inappropriate Language Physical Contact Defiance/Disrespect Disruption Property Misuse Tease/Taunt Lying/Cheating Homework/Classwork Electronic Device (1st

Offense)

Administrator Managed: Fighting/Assault Abusive Language Overt Defiance Harassment/Bullying Disruption (repeated) Forgery/Theft Property Damage Weapons/Alcohol/Drugs Electronic Device (2nd

Offense)

Possible Motivation: Obtain peer attention Obtain adult attention Obtain items/activities Avoid peer(s) Avoid adult(s) Avoid task or activity

Teacher/Staff Interventions: Conference/studentDate_______________ Loss of privilege

_____________ Think Time Parent ContactDate______________ Guidance Referral Notify Teacher

Administration Interventions/Consequences: Conference/principalDate______________ Loss of privilege

______________ Parent contactDate______________ Suspension___ In ___ Out Days_____________ Date_____________

Teacher Signature:__________________Administrator Signature:________________

Parent/Guardian Signature:______________________Date:____________________________First Minor _________Second Minor ______Third Minor

** Three minors of SAME offense within any nine weeks period equals a major.

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Comments/Follow Up:_____________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

____ Minor(s)**

____ Major(s)

____ Refer to Disciplinary Board

LOCATION:

___Classroom ___Cafeteria ___ Hallway

___Restroom ___Bus ___Bus Duty

___Library ___Playground ___Gym

___Computer ___Assembly ___Field Trips Lab___Other______________________________

MINOR PROBLEM BEHAVIOR DEFINITION

INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGE Verbal messages that include name calling, use of words to humiliate, or inappropriate slang words

PHYSICAL CONTACT Student engages in non-serious, but inappropriate physical contact such as mild pushes, elbowing, horseplay, and may include kissing or hugging

DEFIANCE/DISRESPECT Student engages in brief or low intensity failure to respond to adult request. Stud

DISRUPTION Student engages in low-intensity, but inappropriate disruption such as pencil tapping, moving chair, talking out of turn, etc.

PROPERTY MISUSE Use of property in a way in which it was not designed that does not cause physical harm or injury to one’s self or others

TEASE/TAUNT Inappropriate comments or disrespectful messages (verbal or gestural) to another person

LYING/CHEATING Responses that are deliberately untrue or misleading. Taking credit for work that is not the student’s own (plagiarism)

HOMEWORK/CLASSWORK Chronic failure to complete homework/classwork

ELECTRONIC DEVICE (1st Offense) If a student is discovered in possession of a cell phone on school property during the regular day, the device will be confiscated on the first offense and taken to the Principal’s Office. A parent or guardian may come to reclaim the phone from the Principal.

MAJOR PROBLEM BEHAVIOR DEFINITIONFIGHTING/ASSAULT Actions involving serious physical contact where injury may

occur (hitting, punching, kicking, hair pulling, scratching). Verbal, written, or physical threats of violence made toward another person or group of people.

ABUSIVE LANGUAGE Swearing or curse words directed toward others in a demeaning or provoking manner

OVERT DEFIANCE Yelling at teacher, leaving class without permission, refusing boldly to obey, challenging or resisting authority, talks back to an adult in charge, or engaging in power struggles

HARRASSMENT/BULLYING Disrespectful messages (verbal or gestural) to another person that includes threats, intimidations, obscene gestures, pictures, or text. Negative comments based on race, religion, gender, age, and/or ethnicity, disabilities or other personal matters

DISRUPTION (repeated) Behavior causing an interruption in a class or activity, including sustained loud talk, yelling, screaming, noise with materials, horseplay or roughhousing, sustained out-of-seat behavior

THEFT/FORGERY Student is in possession of, having passed on, or being responsible for removing someone else’s property or has signed a person’s name without that person’s permission

PROPERTY DAMAGE Intentional destruction of property belonging to the school or the teacher through misuse of aggressive behavior; vandalism of school property that causes permanent damage and/or property costs money to be fixed and/or replaced.

WEAPONS/ALCOHOL/DRUGS Student is in possession of any weapon (gun, knife, knuckles, etc.) whether real or look-alike, or any other object readily capable of causing bodily harm. The use or possession of a controlled substance (drugs or alcohol) or cigarette lighters and matches. To “use” shall mean any holding of a cigarette, cigar, or pipe, and inhaling and exhaling of the smoke of tobacco, or any chewing or dipping of any tobacco product or lighters/matches.

ELECTRONIC DEVICE (2nd Offense) If the cell phone is taken a second time during the school year, it will be sent to the Principal’s Office and kept for the remainder of the school term. No personal communication devices are allowed on school property from 6:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily Monday through Friday except in a vehicle.

Pg.8CONCERNS

If you have a concern about your student, talk to the teacher FIRST. If you feel the situation has not been resolved, please call the school office to set up an appointment. In order for the school administration to provide and supervise the best instructional environment for your child, appointments must be made and followed.

CONFERENCES

If parents wish to speak with the teacher, send a note, leave a voicemail, or leave your phone number with the receptionist, and the teacher will contact you as soon as possible. Teachers will be happy to make arrangements to meet with you during their planning time.From 7:45 until 2:45, all of our teachers are with students and cannot leave their classrooms unattended. We WILL NOT interrupt the instructional day (unless an extreme emergency occurs).

COUNSELING PROGRAM

All students have access to counseling services at school. A student may request a private conference. Parents may call the counselor or send a note to schedule a conference. Conferences often focus on normal concerns of elementary students. In addition to private conferences, the counselor conducts classroom guidance units for all children. Topics may include understanding our feelings, peer pressure, friendships, improving behavior at school, getting along with others, career choices and drug education.

CUSTODY ISSUES

Due to questions raised regarding custody issues, we must now require proof of custody in the form of a court order. We need a copy of the custody papers as soon possible, so we do not violate the order. If any changes to the court order occur during the school year, please have that necessary paperwork into the office.

CYBERBULLLYING

The Warren County School Board has adopted a policy (JTA) to address this problem whether the action occurs at school or off campus. Cyberbullying is defined as the use of e-mail, cell phone, text messaging, Websites to support deliberate, hostile behavior intended to frighten or harm others. If a student uses a school-provided or personal communication device with the intent to intimidate or harass, use obscene language, or make threats will be subject to school disciplinary procedures. If the cyberbullying creates a climate of fear or causes disruption of work of the school or impinges on the rights of other students, the person committing the act will be subject to the school disciplinary proceedings.Students and staff should report any incidents of cyberbullying to the school counselor. The counselor will report incident to the principal.

DIRECTORY INFORMATION PROCEDURE

Within the first three weeks of each school year, the school district will notify parents and eligible students of the items it proposes to designate as “directory information.” After the parents have been notified, they will have two weeks to advise the school system in writing (a letter to the superintendent’s office) of any or all of the items they refuse to permit the school system to designate as directory information about that student.

DRESS CODE Pre-K - 8

In keeping with the educational goals of this school, students are expected to dress and groom themselves with a sense of responsibility. The dress code eliminates obvious or perceived disruptive distractions and safety concerns. Each student will show a high degree of respect for the standards of decency, cleanliness and style appropriate to support an educational environment.

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DRESS CODE Pre-K-8

All dress code decisions shall be made by the principal in accordance with the school guidelines and Warren County school board policy. Dress code violations will result in 1st) a warning and a change of clothes 2nd) call to parent to bring a change of clothes 3rd) 1 day of in school suspension and finally 4) out of school suspension. A call to parent or guardian will be made for each violation and may result in having clothes brought to school for the change.

1) Hats, caps other head coverings, and sun glasses will not be worn in any way or form in the school building. (May be allowed on special dress up days).

2) Unnatural hair coloring deemed disruptive to the educational process by the principal is not acceptable.3) Clothing and accessories decorated with slogans that promote or are suggestive of drugs, sex, bodily

functions, profanity, tobacco, alcohol, gang activities, criminal activity, violence or death and/or hate speech or symbols including organizations which promote these disturbing influences are prohibited.

4) Shoes must be worn at all times. Laces on shoes or sneakers must be tied. 5) All pants will be worn at the waistline. Jeans and pants must not sag, bag, drag, or expose undergarments.

Jeans or other clothing with holes or tears above the allowable short length are not allowed. A hole is a hole regardless of size. All holes repaired must be patched or sewn.

6) Wallet chains, dog chains or collars, bracelets or necklaces with spikes or sharp points and other wearing apparel that could be used as weapons are prohibited.

7) Special dress days may be designated by the principal to include not limited to the following examples; field days, picture days, school spirit days, etc.

Additional Dress Code Specific for Grades Pre-K-4 1. Dresses, shorts or skirts that are slightly above the knee will be acceptable. 2. Shirts must cover undergarments as well as midriff, chest, cleavage, back and buttock. Clothing should meet this standard not only standing, but also when sitting stretching, bending, and/or stooping. See through clothing is not acceptable. 3. Leggings may be worn only with dress code appropriate top/skirt/shorts that is/are slightly above the knee.

Additional Dress Code Specific for Grades 5-8

1. Dresses, shorts or skirts that are no shorter than a dollar bill width (2 ½ inches) from the crease in the back of the knee will be acceptable.

2. Shirts must cover undergarments as well as midriff, chest, cleavage, back and buttock. Sleeveless shirts must have a strap that is at least the width of a dollar bill (2 1/2 inches). Clothing should meet this standard not only standing, but also when sitting stretching, bending, and/or stooping. See through clothing is not acceptable.

3. Form fitting clothes, such as spandex or biking shorts, are not acceptable as an outer garment. Leggings may be worn only with dress code appropriate top/skirt/shorts that is/are no shorter than 2 1/2 inches (dollar bill width) above the knee.

If a student Pre-K-8 feels that he/she cannot comply with the standardized dress code because of religious or ethnic beliefs or physical characteristics, the parent/guardian must provide a written explanation to the principal for possible relief from certain aspects of this dress code.

We respectfully request that all (visitors) who enter Dibrell Elementary School help us set the example by following the dress code.

Pg. 10DURHAM SCHOOL SERVICES

“DO NOT LOSE YOUR BUS PRIVILEGE!”

FOLLOW THESE RULES

1. Observe classroom conduct.2. Be courteous, use no profane language.3. Do not eat or drink on the bus.4. Keep the bus clean.5. Co-operate with the driver.6. Do not smoke.7. Do not damage bus or equipment.8. Stay in your seat.9. Keep head, hands and feet inside bus.10. Do not fight, push or shove.11. Do not tamper with bus equipment.12. Do not bring pets on the bus.13. Do not bring flammable material on the bus.14. The bus driver is authorized to assign seats.15. Have a safe trip.

Parents having a question about the bus or their child’s bus route may call 473-8013.

EMERGENCY DISMISSAL

There are any numbers of emergency situations, which could force the closing of schools. During these times it is often impossible to get an open phone line. Please have a pre-determined emergency plan for your child that does NOT include the student having to phone someone. Reviewing this plan with your child periodically will help him/her feel safe during stressful times. Your child’s teacher will keep a copy of each student’s emergency plan on file in his or her classroom. If you will be out of town, please leave instructions with someone who is on your child’s sign out card to listen to the radio and be responsible for your child’s plan. The Director of Schools will notify parents through the School Messenger service by telephone, and radio/TV stations will be notified to announce a school closing if it should become necessary.

EMERGENCY DRILLSSafety Drills will be held regularly. Students and staff will exit the building through the emergency exit in each room or area as soon as possible. In the event of a bomb threat, fire emergency procedures will be followed.Tornado drills will be held periodically. An announcement will be announced over the building intercom. Students and staff will move quietly to their designated tornado station and sit by the wall with hands covering heads.Our district and building has a Crisis Plan that will go into effect immediately in the event of a crisis.

EMERGENCY NUMBERSThe school must ALWAYS be informed as to a work number or emergency number in the event your child becomes ill or injured at school. Please remember to notify the school of any change of address or telephone number.

ENROLLMENT PROCEDURE

The following items are required for enrollment: proof of residence, copy of birth certificate, copy of social security card, up to date shot record, and the address and phone number of the last school attended.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Students wishing to participate in basketball, softball, cheerleading, Jr. Beta Club, etc., must maintain passing grades (both academic and citizenship). Students participating in basketball, softball, or cheerleading must have a current physical and be covered by medical insurance provided by the parent or guardian. Dibrell School is a member of the Warren County Elementary Athletic Association. As such, we adhere to all WCEAA policies including the “NO Pass No Play” and “Eligibility” policies. A copy of those polices are supplied to all athletes.

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EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES/ATTENDANCE

Students must be in attendance at school at least half a day in order to be eligible to participate in extracurricular activities that day, including practice. Students who are not present on the day of scheduled extra-curricular events are not to be in attendance at ballgames, dances, etc.

FAMILY VACATIONS

NOTE: Please plan any family vacations over breaks. Vacation taken during regular school session will be considered unexcused absences.

FIELD TRIPS

When a field trip is taken, your child will bring home a permission form giving the destination, date, and other important information. THIS FORM MUST be returned to the teacher before your child will be allowed to go on the trip. To provide adequate supervision, chaperones are not allowed to bring guests. Only students enrolled at Dibrell and in the class taking the trip will be permitted to attend.*Students caught cheating on AR Tests will not be allowed to attend the PTO AR Field Trip and will receive a zero for their AR Grade. 8 th Graders that receive a major referral will not be allowed to attend the 8 th Grade Class Field trip and additional major referrals will result in loss of other privileges, Falcon Rest Trip, 8 th Grade Celebrations/ Parties, graduation party, graduation, and other events at the principal’s discretion.

FLOWER OR BALLOON DELIVERIES

School Board policy prohibits the delivery of flowers, balloons, stuffed animals, etc. to students and personnel. These objects may not be transported on the bus.

GRADING SYSTEM

Grade reports will be sent home with students at the end of each nine weeks. In addition to these report cards, progress reports will be sent home in the middle of each grading period to provide parents with information of importance in the educational process.Letter and numerical value will express the basic grading system for the subject area grades as follows:A …93-100B…85-92C…75-84D…70-74F…Below 70

HEALTH SERVICES

If your child has a medical condition that might require special action, please contact the School Nurse at 934-2301 ext. 102. Examples would be diabetes, asthma, and severe allergies with the need for an epipen, seizures, or others. We will assist you in the communication of those special needs and the appropriate responses at school and on the bus through an Action Plan.This is intended to serve as an informational guideline in preventing the spread of communicable diseases in the schools. Please refer to these guidelines throughout the school year. A student should be kept home when the following symptoms persist:Temperature of 100 degrees or moreA dry, hacking or productive coughPurulent (green, yellow, thick or unusual) nasal or eye drainageDiarrheaSkin rashes or eruptions: such as scabies, chicken pox, or impetigoComplaints of earache, severe stomachache, sore throat, severe headache

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HEALTH SERVICES CONT.Red throat, swollen glands around jaw, ears, or neckNausea and vomitingLethargy (general complaint of muscular aches and pain)Head or body lice must be treated with appropriate medication before returning to school.THE SCHOOL POLICY IS LICE FREE. Every attempt should be made to remove as many nits as possible before returning to school.We want to encourage you not to send medications to be administered at school. But if that is necessary, there are specific guidelines we must follow in order to comply with state law. You will find these guidelines listed below:

Never send medicine to school with a student. Only parents may bring medication to school. Students required to take prescribed medication must have an “Administration of Medication” form completed and on file. This form is available from the school nurse or the school office and MUST BE COMPLETED when medication is delivered to the clinic by the parent or guardian of the student. (Students do not complete the form or transport medication to school.) Medication will be kept and given to the student at the designated time.The school is not permitted to administer medication, including aspirin, Tylenol, etc. at the student’s request.NOTE! Any student possessing, selling, giving, sharing, or misrepresenting any medication in any form including, but not limited to any type of over-the-counter medication or health aide (such as vitamins), will be subject to full prosecution under the Drug Free Schools Act.No school official or teacher will routinely dispense medication to students except in unique situations in which a child’s health is dependent upon medical aid. If under exceptional circumstances a child is required to take oral medication during school hours and the parent cannot be at school to administer the medication, only the principal or the principal’s designee will administer the medication in compliance with the following regulations:The medication must be delivered to the school nurse in person by the parent or guardian of the student unless the medication must be retained by the student for immediate administration (i.e., students with asthma).All prescription medications must be brought to school in the original container labeled by the pharmacy to include the following information:Name of studentPrescription numberName of medication and dosageAdministration route or other directionsDateLicensed prescriber’s namePharmacy name, address, and phone numberNonprescription medication may be administered only with the written request and permission of the parent or guardian. All nonprescription medication must be brought to school in the manufacturer’s container with ingredients of the product listed on the container and child’s name affixed to the container. The medication will be administered in accordance with label directions or written instructions from the student’s physician.The administrator/designee will:

1. Inform appropriate school personnel of the medication being administered.2. Keep an accurate record of the administration of the medication.3. Keep all medication in a locked cabinet except medication retained by a student per physician’s order; and4. Return unused prescription to the parent or guardian only.

The parent or guardian is responsible for informing the designated official of any change in the student’s health or change in medication.A copy of this policy shall be provided to a parent or guardian upon receipt of a request for long-term administration of medication.

HONOR ROLL

The honor roll is awarded each nine week grading period to those students in grades 3-8 who maintain the letter grade of “B” or higher in all subjects. The first honor roll is awarded to those students who make an “A” in all subjects. The second honor roll is awarded to those students making an “A and/or B” in all subjects. Students must also make an “S” in those classes giving an “S” or “U” grade. Names of students meeting these requirements will be sent to the Southern Standard for publication. The PTO sponsors the “Principal’s Honor Roll Field Trip” each year. Students making the first or second honor roll all 4 nine-week grading periods are invited to participate in this event.

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INTERROGATIONS AND SEARCHES

If a student is suspected or accused of any offense committed in a school during school hours or on school property at any time, the principal may interrogate the student, without the presence of parent(s) and without giving the student constitutional warnings. Lockers and other storage areas are school property and subject to search. (Policy JCAB may be reviewed in the Warren County Board of Education Policy Manual at any time.)

ITEMS PROHIBITED

Students are discouraged from bringing anything to school, which is not essential to their education. This includes such things as cell phones, laser pointers, radios, iPods, skateboards, electronic games, water guns, toys, games, recreational equipment, trading cards, playing cards, gum, toy guns, footballs, nail polish, “Whiteout”, magazines that promote violence or drugs, and any other substance that might harm our students or our faculty. These items, or others like them, are to be brought only after receiving specific permission from the student’s teacher. The student, not the school, is responsible for any items brought. Violation of this rule may result in the item being held at school until the end of the school year. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken in these cases. Prior permission from the principal is required before students, parents, or teachers can bring an animal into the building.

LOCKERS

Each 5th -8th grade student will be assigned a locker for personal use. Lockers are school property and are subject to search. Lockers are to be kept in a neat order so that doors completely close and no articles are left hanging outside. Failure to do so may result in the loss of the locker privileges.

LOST AND FOUND

The school will not be responsible for lost or stolen items.

A lost or found article may be inquired about in the office. At the end of each school year, or when storage becomes an issue, all articles not claimed will be donated or thrown away.

LUNCH AND BREAKFAST PROGRAM

We are pleased to announce that we are participating in the Community Eligibility Provision which allows all students in Warren County Schools to eat breakfast and lunch at no charge enabling them to be better prepared for learning in the classroom. Checks should be made payable to Dibrell School Cafeteria. The Food Service computer will not accept charges.

 PricesLunch:$0.00 -- No cost to all students$3.00 – Teacher / Staff Lunch$4.00 – Visitor Lunch for Student’s Birthday$4.00 – Visitor Holiday Meal Breakfast:$0.00 -- No cost to all students$2.00 - Teacher / Staff BreakfastNote: All student lunches and breakfasts include milk. All adult meals include a beverage.

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MAKE-UP WORKMake immediate plans to do all make-up work due to absence. Normally, all make-up work must be made

up in a period of no less than three (3) school days (after returning to school) nor greater than the number of days missed, if more than three. If this work is not completed within the time limits, the student may receive a zero (0).

Make-up work may be obtained upon the return of a student(s) from previously planned days of absence. Students who are ill may complete make-up work upon their return to school. Parents may call ahead in order to pick up work for sick student(s). Please make arrangements to pick work up at the end of the day so as not to interrupt class time and to give teachers time to gather make-up work. The student will be graded on work completed. Attendance is essential to academic success and students are urged to be at school every day.

PARENT-TEACHER ORGANIZATION

We strive to make the best school possible. Becoming involved in the PTO provides an opportunity to contribute suggestions for the improvement of the educational process. You will receive a notice of the time and date before each meeting. Our PTO contributes much to the success of our school. We hope you will become actively involved.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE POLICY

Students who sign in late and check out early will accumulate time and when this time reaches 420 minutes or 7 hours the student will be considered absent one day. Board Policy JB

PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES IN SCHOOL

A “personal communication device” is a device that emits an audible signal, vibrates, displays a message, or otherwise summons or delivers a communication to the possessor. Students shall not possess personal communication devices, such as cellular phones, on their person, this shall include backpacks, lockers, purses, etc. while on school property, which includes school buses, during regular school hours. If a student is discovered in possession of a personal communication device on school property during the regular day, the device will be confiscated on the first offense and taken to the Principal’s Office. A parent or guardian may come to reclaim the phone from the Principal. If the phone is taken a second time during the school year, it will be sent to the Principal’s Office and kept for the remainder of the school term. No personal communication devices are allowed on school property from 6:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily Monday through Friday except in a vehicle. We, the Warren County School System are not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged personal communication devices. (Policy JCBEA)

RTI (RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION)

At the beginning of the school year, students in grades K-8th will be screened in both math and reading. Students that are determined to need remedial assistance will then begin the Dibrell Elementary RTI program. We will target students in the specific area of need. RTI has seen great success. Through the process, if students are not making appropriate gains even with targeted assistance after several weeks of intervention, the student may be eligible for evaluation through special education services.

SCHOOL HOURS

School begins at 7:45 a.m. Students are dismissed to class at 7:30. Algebra I Students are dismissed at 7:25 as their class starts at 7:30. Supervision is provided in the bus room and the doors are opened at 7:00 a.m. Students should not arrive at school before 7:00.The school day is over at 2:45 p.m. Students who walk home or ride with parents may leave at this time. Any student leaving school before 2:45 must be signed out in the office. Students must be picked up by 3:00.

SCHOOL SPONSORED EVENTS

In order for an event to qualify as school sponsored, it must be school planned, school directed, and teacher supervised.

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SCHOOL SUPPLIESA list of school supplies will be given for each grade level. Students are responsible for coming to class with necessary supplies. All requested fees are voluntary and not mandatory.

SECTION 504 AND DISABILITY NOTICE

Section 504 is an Act which prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in any program receiving federal financial assistance. The Act defines a person with a disability as anyone who

Has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities, including caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.

Has record of such impairment, or Is regarded as having such impairment.

In order to fulfill its obligation under Section 504, the Warren County School District recognizes a responsibility to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and students. No discrimination against any person with a disability will knowingly be permitted in any of the programs and practices in the school system.The school district has specific responsibilities under the Act, which include the responsibility to identify, evaluate, and if the child is determined to be eligible under Section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational services.If parent or guardian disagrees with the determination made by the professional staff of the school district, he/she has a right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer.If there are any questions, please feel free to contact Joyce Dunlap, Section 504 Compliance Coordinator, (931)668-4022 (ext. 266).When an individual, age three through twenty-two years, is suspected of requiring services beyond the accommodations and/or modifications provided by Section 504, the school’s Special Education Department should be contacted. Questions can also be addressed by calling Candice Willmore, Special Education Supervisor, at (931)668-1728.

SELLING OF ITEMSNo items will be sold at school unless they are a Dibrell sponsored fundraising activity. No items will be sold for personal profit. All fund-raisers must be approved by the principal. Students are not allowed to sell personal items at school.

SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES

Approximately 15% of America’s population has a learning disability, or difference. These learning differences are most often discovered during the elementary years. If a student participates in the DES RTI program to the point of educational testing, a special education teacher, school psychologist, administrator, and the classroom teacher will meet with parents to determine next steps. An IEP, or Individualized Education Plan is written for each student who qualifies for special education services.

SPECIFIC POLICIES AND RULES

1. Weapons of any nature are not allowed on school grounds.2. The use or possession of a controlled substance (drugs or alcohol) is not allowed. (Violation of either of the above two rules may constitute a felony and must be reported to law enforcement personnel.)3. Students are not allowed to possess or use any tobacco product while on school buses, school grounds, or at any school sponsored activity. Possession of cigarette lighters and matches is prohibited. School Board Policy states the following: The use or possession of tobacco products in any form on school premises and on school buses by students shall be prohibited. To “use” shall mean any holding of a cigarette, cigar, or pipe, and inhaling and exhaling of the smoke of tobacco, or any chewing or dipping of any tobacco product. Penalties for Violation:

Over eighteen years of age:1. Drivers: Parking pass suspended two weeks2. Non-Drivers: After school work-twelve hours (two weeks) (Failure to complete above punishment-OSS)3. All subsequent offenses-same punishment

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SPECIFIC POLICIES AND RULESUnder eighteen years of age:

1. All offenders cited to Juvenile Court 2. Parent Conferences required at school3. All subsequent offenses-same punishment

Note: Principal must cite the juvenile to court.4. The defacing, damaging, or destruction of school property is not allowed. Property treated in this manner must be paid for by students, parents, or guardian. This includes textbooks or library books, which have been defaced, damaged, or lost. In order to protect our furniture and building chewing gum is prohibited.5. Students are not to buy, trade, or sell items while at school.6. Students are to pay all debts owed to the school prior to receiving their grades.7. Students are not to be on school grounds after school hours unless attending a school sponsored event or supervised by a responsible adult.8. Students should be aware that a bomb threat is considered a Class E felony.9. Fighting or assault, both verbally and physically, will not be tolerated and will be dealt with according to school board policy. All threats of violence must be reported to a teacher or principal of the school.10. Handholding, kissing, or other inappropriate physical contact is strictly prohibited.11. Students shall be “expelled” (removed from the pupil’s regular school to an alternative school or removed from school altogether for the period of one calendar year) for committing battery upon any teacher, principal, administrator, or any other employee of a local education agency or possessing any narcotic or stimulant drug. Tennessee law requires that weapons, battery on school employees, and possession of a narcotic be treated with Zero-Tolerance.

STAFF SAFETYIt is the intent of the Warren County School Board to see that the working conditions for school system employees is safe and free from harassment. To that end, any employee who feels threatened, harassed or intimidated by a parent, guardian, student, or other member of the public while performing duties for the school system, can direct the temporary removal or exclusion from the premises of any person engaged in such inappropriate behavior. The school system employee shall immediately notify the appropriate law enforcement authorities and the central office of the school system of the situation. Any person threatening, harassing or intimidating a school system employee shall be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

STUDENT DATA FORMSIn the school office, each student has a personal data form. This way parent information, emergency contact information and phone numbers are kept easily accessible to school personnel. Should an address or phone number change, please contact the school IMMEDIATELY so proper changes can be made.

STUDENT DROP OFF/PICK UP PROCEDUREStudents Riding BusesBuses unload at the Guthrie Annex doors at 7:00 a.m. Students dropped off at school before the building opens will be considered abandoned and can be reported to the authorities. Cars are prohibited from using the bus loading and unloading area. These doors are locked after students enter the building. A faculty member will be on duty to ensure the safety of your child. Students should report to the gym or the cafeteria for breakfast.Students Arriving By CarAll traffic will enter and exit in a single lane through the entrance to the gym on Dr. Fisher Road. The car rider Drop Off Lane operates in a single lane. Parents should pull forward as far as possible when dropping off students. All cars along the covered walkway should unload. It is impossible to let every child off at the door. This allows us to unload students in a safe and timely manner. Cars will be directed when to move. Cars are not allowed to move or pass when students are unloading. The gate will be closed at 7:40. Anyone arriving after that time must drive around to the visitor’s side entrance. Students that arrive and will be counted tardy MUST have the parent park, come in, and sign their child in tardy per the WCS Tardy Policy.Students should not be dropped off in the second tier parking area due to no supervision. This parking area should be used by parents who walk their children into the building. If you need to give your child last minute instructions, sign notes, etc. please pull out of the line of traffic and park in the bottom tier that will allow other parents who are in a hurry to jobs or appointments to safely pass.

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STUDENT DROP OFF/PICK UP PROCEDUREBreakfast is served between 7:00-7:30 a.m. If your child wants to eat breakfast they must arrive before 7:30.Afternoon Pick-upVehicles should pull in the designated pick-up lanes as directed by a faculty member. Students are dismissed at 2:45. School personnel will direct students to walk to their vehicles when it is safe. Please remain in your car as children are loading and place your child’s nametag on the mirror or dash. When students are safely loaded, traffic will be allowed to proceed. Please work with us to ensure every child’s safety. Students must be picked up by 3:00. Buses will be held and any student not picked up will need to be placed on a bus to ensure that students have a way to get home unless a parent contacts the school due to an emergency.

STUDENT SIGN OUT PROCEDUREWhen it becomes necessary for a student to leave school during the course of the school day, he/she must be signed out in the office by the parent, guardian, or parent designee. No student is to leave campus for any reason at any time unless he/she has been properly signed out in the office. The individual signing the student out is to first report to the attendance clerk. She will then contact the teacher and student. Authorization cards are to be filled out when a student registers. Only persons whose names appear on the student’s card will be allowed to sign the student out. Identification will be required.KINDERGARTEN SIGN OUT: Students who sign OUT before 11:15or IN after 11:15 will be counted ABSENT. A full day for kindergarten students is 1:15. GRADES 1-8: Students signing OUT before 11:15 or IN after 11:15 will be counted absent.Students must be signed out in the office and called to the office for dismissal.

STUDENT WELLNESSThe Warren County School System is committed to providing a school environment that enhances learning and development of lifelong wellness practices. Policy JGBA states that all foods and beverages made available for purchase on campus (including vending, concessions, a la carte, student stores, parties, and fundraising) during the school day are consistent with the mandated wellness policy.

TELEPHONEThe school telephone is for business calls only. Necessary plans should be made with children before they leave home in the morning. Children are called to the phone in the office only in case of an emergency.If you wish to speak to a teacher, please leave a message on their voice mail, and he/she will return your call as soon as possible.

TEXTBOOKSEach student shall receive all required textbooks. Textbooks are property of the Board of Education and must be returned at the end of the school year or upon withdrawal from the school. Parents are responsible for the textbooks received and used by their children. Students are expected to return books in the same condition as received, allowing for wear from normal use. If the book is damaged or lost, parents will be required to pay for the book.

VISITORS The Warren County Board of Education policy states that except on occasions such as school programs, athletic events, open house, or similar public events all visitors will report to the school office when entering school and will sign a log book. The faculty and administration of Dibrell School welcomes the opportunity to meet with you and discuss your concerns. Please schedule a time to meet with your child’s teacher after class that does not interrupt instructional time. If a parent needs to give his/her child a message, they must go to the office and the office staff will deliver the message promptly.Students from other schools are not permitted to visit class with your child.For the protection of the students, all visitors are to report to the office and sign in upon entering the building. PreK and Kindergarten parents can walk their child to their class if they wish, but 1st-8th grade students must walk to class unassisted by parents with the exception the First Day of School.

WALKERSStudents who will be walking in the afternoons must have a note from their parent/guardian giving them permission to walk from school after dismissal.

Pg.18Non-Discrimination Policy

The Warren County School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, handicap, or veteran status in provision of educational opportunities, programs, activities or employment opportunities and benefits.

The mission of the Warren County School System is to educate every student every day. Parents play a vital role in this mission. The Board encourages the involvement of parents (Policy IFCE) and

wants to keep them informed of their rights. -Warren County School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin,

age, or handicap in the provision of educational opportunities, activities, or other administered programs. -Parents have the right to request information about the professional and/or paraprofessional qualifications of

their child’s teacher(s). Teaching certifications can be found by accessing the Tennessee Department of Education, Teacher Licensing

Web Site (www.state.tn.us/education/lic_home.htm) or contacting the system’s Human Resources Director. -Parents must receive notification if their child’s teacher in a core curriculum subject is being taught for 4 or

more consecutive weeks by a teacher who is not highly qualified. -Parents will have access to system/school report cards when released by the State Department of Education and

available (usually in late Fall of each year) through their website (www.state.tn.us/education) or at the school and/or district office.

-Parents will be informed if their child is enrolled in a school identified for improvement, corrective action, or restructuring. The Warren County School System will furnish an explanation of what this means, academic comparisons with district and state, steps being taken to improve achievement, parent involvement, etc.

-Parents will be informed annually about the availability of supplemental educational services if a school fails to meet adequate yearly progress.

-Parents must receive annual academic results (mid-term reporting periods, end of reporting periods, TCAP Achievement results (grades 3-8), Writing Assessment (grades 5, 8,11), End-of-Course and Gateway Exams) in a timely manner as required by local Board policy and the Tennessee Department of Education.

-Parents of a student identified as limited English proficient (ELL-English Language Learner) must be notified in a timely manner of their child’s participation in an ESL Program, details of the program, rights to waive participation, and specific information on the child’s level of English proficiency.

-A parental involvement policy is available in the school’s handbook or in individual school’s offices. Title I Schools: A written parental involvement policy will be developed jointly with and distributed to parents

of children participating in Title I Programs. This includes an annual meeting for parents to inform them of their school’s participation in programs (ex. Title I) funded under the No Child Left Behind Act.

-Schools and parents must be notified of school wide program authority under which schools can consolidate funds from federal, state, and local sources to upgrade the educational program of the entire school (qualification: 40% of students must be from verified low income families).

-Parents can visit the state’s website (www.state.tn.us) or system’s website (www.warrenschools.com) to access a description of the curriculum (Tennessee Curriculum Standards), assessment, and proficiency levels students are expected to meet.

-Parents have access to district and school information and reports through the media (local newspaper and radio), and the System/School Report Cards available on the State website or at the system’s administrative offices.

-The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act ensures educational rights and protections for children and youth experiencing homelessness. For more information, contact the school system’s homeless liaison.

-Section 9532 of the NCLB Act shall provide any student who attends a persistently dangerous school, or any student who has been the victim of a violent crime while at school, the opportunity to attend a safe school. The appropriate paper work and procedure is on file in your principal’s office.

-The School Board Policy relating to student privacy and parental access to information is available in the School Board Policy Manual located at each school and the Central Office, Notification of Rights and Release or Directory information under FERPA, Family Education Rights and Policy Act, are also available through media announcements. This Federal law affords parents and students, (over 18 years of age) certain rights with respect to educational records. Parents will be notified of any change in Board policy. (More information on FERPA is available in school handbooks or at the Central Administrative Office.)

-Students and parents are encouraged to participate in safe and drug free school programs to prevent student violence and drug use. Parents, however, may request in writing that their children not participate in such activities.

-School health requirements, policies, and procedures (ex: immunizations, medication at school, etc.) are available from the WCSS Health Services Office (668-5111), principal, or school nurse.

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-Parent/Student Rights in Identification, Evaluation, and Placement-A complete description of the rights

granted by federal law to students with disabilities is available by contacting the Special Education Department of the Warren County School System. The intent of this law is to keep parents fully informed concerning decisions about their child and to inform them of rights if they disagree with any of those decisions.

-CHILD FIND REQUIREMENT UNDER IDEA-Warren County Schools has the responsibility to locate, identify, and evaluate all children ages 3 to 22 years suspected of having a disability. Any questions or concerns may be directed to the Special Education Director at 668-1728.

Parents should read other valuable notices and information found in their child’s school handbooks rules, policies, health related information, attendance, etc.

2017-18 Warren County Schools Calendar August 8, 2017 Registration Day Abbreviated 7:45-9:45 AM at Dibrell No Buses Abbreviated Day August 9, 2017 No Students August 10, 2017 First Day for Students September 4, 2017 Labor Day (No School) September 15, 2017 Fair Day (No School) October 9-13, 2017 Fall Break November 6, 2017 Parent/Teacher Conference High School 3:00pm-6:00pm November 7, 2017 Parent/Teacher Conference PreK-5 and Prek-8 Elementary 3:00pm- 6:00pm November 9, 2017 Parent/Teacher Conference Warren Co. Middle School 3:00pm-6:00pm November 21, 2017 Teacher Professional Development (Stockpiled Day No Students) November 22-24, 2017 Thanksgiving Break December 19, 2017 Abbreviated Day 7:45-9:45 Buses will run End of First Semester 84 days + 1 full PD=85 days December 20, 2017- Holiday Break January 2, 2018 Holiday Break January 3, 2018 Teacher Professional Development (No School for Students)(Stockpiled Day) January 4, 2018 Students Return from Holiday Break January 15, 2018 Martin Luther King Day (No School) January 22, 2018 Parent/Teacher Conference Warren Co. Middle School 3:00pm-6:00pmJanuary 23, 2018 Parent/Teacher Conference High School 3:00pm-6:00pm January 25, 2018 Parent/Teacher Conference PreK-5 and Prek-8 Elementary 3:00pm-6:00pm February 19, 2018 Presidents Day (No School) March 16, 2018 Teacher Professional Development (Stockpiled Day No Students) March 19-March 23, 2018 Spring Break (No School) March 30, 2018 Good Friday (No School) April 10-13, 2018 Pre-K and K Screening Bobby Ray Gym May 14-24, 2018 Kindergarten and 8th Grade Graduation Window May 25, 2018 End of Second Semester 93 days + 2 PD=95 days Last Day of School (Abbreviated 7:45am-9:45am No Buses) May 25, 2017 High School Graduation Report Card Distribution Dates: 1st Quarter Ends October 6, 2017 Report Cards October 23, 2017 2nd Quarter Ends December 19, 2017 Report Cards January 8, 20183rd Quarter Ends March 15, 2018 Report Cards April 2, 2018 4th Quarter Ends May 25, 2018 Report Cards May 25, 2018

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School-Parent Compact for Achievement

What is a School-Parent Compact?

Dibrell Elementary

Jointly DevelopedThe parents, students, and staff of Dibrell Elementary School developed this School-Parent Compact for Achievement. Teachers suggested home learning strategies, parents added ideas to make them more specific, and student told us what would help them learn. Meetings are held each year to review the Compact and make changes based on student needs.

If you would like to volunteer or help with school activities please contact: Debbie Glenn at glennd01@k12tn.net or 931-934-2301 ext. 171.

Building Partnerships Please join us by

attending and helping support our annual Fall and Spring activities.

Parent Teacher Organization Meetings

Family Fun Reading and Math Nights

Bingo for Books Tutoring – AIM, CATS Club Civic Leaders

Appreciation Luncheon

Please check monthly newsletters and notes home for detailed information and dates.

Communication about Student Learning

Dibrell Elementary School is committed to frequent two-way communication with families about children’s learning. Some of the ways you can expect us to reach you are:

Daily Agenda Updates on the school

web site and current grades in PowerSchool

Monthly Calendar and Newsletter

Parent-teacher conferences in November and January

Phone calls

I have read the 2017-2018

Student/Parent Handbook and

School-Parent Compact with my child.

Child’s name_____________________________

Parent/Guardian signature__________________________

Date______________________________ Dibrell Elementary School

1759 Mike Muncey Rd.

McMinnville, TN 37110

A School-Parent Compact for Achievement is an agreement that parents, students and teachers develop together. It explains how parents and teachers will work together to make sure all our students reach grade-level standards.

Mrs. Sheila Gann, PrincipalPhone: 931-934-2301

Focused on Student Success

School Goals Every grade level cohort will

improve test scores by 4% in reading/language arts.

Every grade level cohort will increase test scores by 4% in math.

Major referrals will decrease by 3%.

Use data to plan intervention. Subgroup focus 3-8 Limited

English Proficient vs. Non-LEP and Students with Disabilities vs. Non-SWD in Math and Reading.

Build Academic Vocabulary. Implement Parent University. Mandated RTI

In Our ClassroomThe teachers will work with students and their families to support students’ success in reading and math. Some of our key connections with families will be:

Using the daily agenda to check for parent/teacher communication

Helping each student grow to his/her fullest potential

Provide a caring learning environment where your child can be held responsible for learning

Provide an enriched and challenging curriculum aligned with the Common Core State Standards

District Goals Increase the percentage of students

proficient and advanced by 4% in K-8th Grade Math.

Increase the percentage of students proficient and advanced by 4% annually in K-8th Grade RLA/Writing.

Our Goals for Student Achievement

Dibrell Students

Dibrell Elementary students joined staff and parents to develop ideas about how they can

succeed in school and reach for the stars in math and reading. Students thought of the

following ideas to make connections between learning at home and school:

Read at home for 20 minutes every day

Complete and return assignments on time

Come to school each day on time and ready to learn

My own personal learning goal is:____________________________________________________

My teacher can help me reach it by:__________________________________________________

Teachers, Parents, Students –Together

At HomeDibrell Elementary School parents will support students’ success in reading and math by:

Using the daily agenda to check for practice assignments and teacher/parent communication

Reading with my child every day and talk about how the story connects with things that he or she has experienced.

Attending the Family Fun Literacy and Math nights at school

Using math games or