STUDENT AND PARENT GUIDEBOOK
HOLSTON VIEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
GENERAL INFORMATION

ABSENCES: Absences are classified as excused or unexcused. Conditions under which a child is excused are: (1) the student’s personal illness or hospitalization, (2) an illness or incapacitating condition of a family member which requires the temporary help of a student, (3) a death in the immediate family, (4) recognized religious holidays/events, (5) required court appearance, (6) approved school related activities, (7) organized cultural or educational activities.
After five days of absences, not necessarily consecutive, about which there is a question, a doctor’s statement may be required. If the requirements are not met, the attendance teacher will be notified.
*Up to five days cultural student leave may be granted to a student provided that the parent or guardian fill out a request in the principal’s office two days before the leave.

AGE OF ENTRANCE: Prerequisite for Kindergarten/First grade- No child shall be eligible to enter first grade after July 1, 1993, without having attended an approved kindergarten program, and meets the other requirements for transfer and/or admission. TCA 49-6-201(d). A child entering kindergarten shall be no less than five years of age on or before September 30. However, a child does not have to enroll in school at five years of age, but enrollment must occur no later than the child’s seventh birthday. (TCA 49-6-3001(c)(1). A child entering first grade shall be no less than six years of age on or before September 30 (lRRMS 0520-1-3.03(10)(a).

ATTENDANCE: The compulsory school attendance law requires that all children between the ages of seven and sixteen inclusive attend some school, either public, private, or parochial. Children may be exempt from school attendance under certain conditions. Students must attend school in the zone in which they reside unless granted special permission by the Board of Education. If a student moves during the school year, application must be made for permission to attend Holston View the remainder of the year. Application must be made for each subsequent year.
BICYCLE RIDING: Because of the danger involved, children who will not conform to the rules of bicycle riding are discouraged to ride their bicycles. Those who observe the rules may ride their bikes to school. Riding bicycles on the playground during school hours is forbidden. No motor or mini-bikes are allowed.

BOOKSTORE: Basic supplies such as paper, pencils, crayons, etc., may be purchased each day of the school week from 8:00-8:10 A.M.BUS

PRIVILEGES VIOLATION: Rules in effect on the bus include hands and feet to yourself, no obscene language, remain seated when the bus is in motion, follow the bus drivers directions and no food or drink. Failure to comply with rules will result in withdrawal of bus riding privileges for a period of time. When a child is suspended from riding the bus a note will be sent to parents. Withdrawal of bus riding privileges does not relieve the child or the parents of responsibility under the school attendance laws. The student must continue to attend school. The parents are required to provide their own transportation while bus privileges are withdrawn.

CAFETERIA: Each class has thirty minutes for lunch. The lunchroom staff prepares a balanced lunch and breakfast each day. A choice of three main courses are available for lunch. The children may bring their lunches but are encouraged to eat a well-balanced meal. Lunches will be charged only in cases of emergencies and must be paid on the day following the charge. Breakfast line will close promptly at 8:20 a.m. each day. The following rules and prices are in effect for school meals.
Breakfast Lunch
Student (Reg.) .75 1.25
Student (Reduced) .30 .40
Adult 1.50 2.50
Holston View School is extremely fortunate to have not only the system menu to go by each day, but we also have two other main entree choices each day. We have surveyed our customers and we have discovered they prefer pizza and peanut butter sandwiches. So, by the cooperation of the kitchen staff and the manager we offer these choices to the students (our customers) each day. We believe eating a lunch will improve student performance. At Holston View we want all to have a hardy lunch in order to work their best in their afternoon classes.
The plastic eating ware and the disposable plates help us keep sickness to a minimum, due to germs. The biodegradability of the plates is as sufficient as other brands that advertise that aspect of their product.
All students and staff members have cafeteria account numbers and may prepay into their account at any time. The one account may be used for breakfast or lunch. REMINDER: The student will use his/her cafeteria ID # through the 12th grade.
In case of lost or forgotten money, students may charge but the money must be repaid within 5 days. Principals will receive a list of unpaid charges weekly. Three charges per customer is the limit. The computer will not accept more. We stop this practice the last month of school for accounting purposes. The cafeteria manager will charge $20.00 for any returned checks.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER: In case of change of address or telephone number, the teacher must be notified in order for records to be corrected.

CLINIC: The clinic provides the facilities for caring for minor injuries and illness. If the illness is of a serious nature, parents are called, and the child is sent home. In case of emergency in which parents cannot be located the doctor or hospital designated on the student information card is contacted. If children are to receive medication during the school day, written directions for administering the medication and written permission from the parent must accompany the medication. This applies to aspirin as well as other medication. If a student has a specific medical problem, the teacher should be notified at the beginning of each school year.

CONFERENCES: Parent conferences are scheduled as needed by the teacher. If parents feel that they need to see a teacher between these conferences, they may call the office and make an appointment.

DISCIPLINE: The principal is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective discipline within the school. It is the duty of each teacher to assist in the discipline of the total school. Pupils shall comply with school rules and regulations. Failure to do so shall result in
such punishment as may be prescribed by the teacher or principal after due process has been followed. The principal or any teacher may detain pupils after school for a reasonable length of time. If the time is long enough to cause anxiety for the parent because of the pupil’s late arrival home, the parent will be notified. Bus students will not be excused from staying after school. Parents are responsible for their transportation home.

DRESS: Students are asked to observe modesty and appropriateness of dress.

EMERGENCY LEAVE: If a child must leave school due to an emergency, identification of the party taking the child must be made at the principal’s office. The teacher will be notified and send the child to the office. Under no circumstances will children be released to unidentified or unauthorized persons. Telephone identification cannot be accepted. Requests for dismissal of a pupil before the close of the school shall be made by the parent or guardian. Parents must sign out children.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: Requirements are: a valid birth certificate, Social Security Card, Immunization record on the state form and a physical examination form. In addition, parents must complete an enrollment card and an emergency information card each year.

FEES: A fee is charged for field trips, transportation, Weekly Readers, workbooks and other miscellaneous school supplies. Parents of students that qualify for free or reduced lunches may choose the option to sign to waiver fees. Fee waivers do not include the fines for overdue books, lost books, debts owed the school or tuition costs. GRADES AND REPORT CARDS: Report cards and interim grade reports are issued each six weeks. The Bristol TN grading policy is attached.

INTERRUPTION OF CLASSES: Interruption of classes must be avoided. Visitors are not to go to pods without prior approval from office personnel. Check by the office to have lunch money, books, notes, etc., delivered. If you need to see or talk with your child the office personnel will help you. Only in cases of emergency will students or teachers be called to the phone. Important messages will be delivered.

LIBRARY BOOKS: A wide variety of books and materials is available in our school library. Children are encouraged to make the best use of it. If a student loses a book or damages or defaces it, he is required to pay for the book.

LUNCH BEHAVIOR: We plan to provide a clean, relaxed atmosphere in which our students can enjoy their lunch and visit with their classmates. In order to insure that all students are able to be served in a safe and orderly fashion, the following guidelines have been discussed with your child:
1. Walk at all times
2. Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself
3. Talk quietly with your neighbor
4. Raise your hand for permission to leave your table or desk
5. Do not throw food
Discipline will consist of the following:
First time Verbal Warning
Second time Student given assigned seat
Third time Report to teacher and parent
Fourth time Referral to principal

MAKE UP WORK: Work missed during an excused absence from school should be completed within one week. Assignments maybe picked up after 3:10 p.m. and prior to 3:30 p.m., other arrangements can be made by calling.

MEDICATION: Prescription medication will be administered to students by school personnel. Forms are provided by the School Board and must be completed by the parent before medication will be given.

PARKS AND RECREATION: The school does not sponsor any intramural type athletic activities. Parks and Recreation does sponsor a number of these activities after school. If you are interested, call 764-4023.

PETS ON CAMPUS: Pets are not permitted on campus. Pets, with or without rabies tags, are likely to be picked up by the authorities.

PHOTOGRAPHS: Individual pictures are taken in the fall and spring. Parents are not required to purchase pictures.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION: Each child who is physically able is required to participate in the daily program. A child unable to participate following an illness must bring a note from the parent. A doctor’s statement is required for children who are to be excused from P. E. for an extended period. A parent’s note is required for temporary non-participation in physical education.

POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT: Many positive reinforcement activities are observed. Kindergarten children are featured each week in the hall display case. Special awards days are held at the end of each six week grading period and the end of the school year. Names of students making honor roll are posted on bulletin boards outside each pod. Student projects are displayed in several windows in the hall and the Art Gallery. We are constantly looking for the best in each student and recognize accomplishment in a number of ways.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION: In determining retention, the following items shall be considered: (1) prior record of retention, (2) academic progress to date, (3) social, emotional, and physical development, (4) age, (5) testing results, (6) attitude and effort of the student, (7) attendance. The appearance of two or more F averages in any one area could mean that the child’s promotion to the next grade is questionable. A child may be retained with a grade other than F if he is performing below grade level as indicated at the top of the report card. The final decision will be made by the principal based upon teacher recommendation.

PROPER CHANNELS FOR COMMUNICATION: Parents who have questions involving their child would follow a standard procedure. First, a conference would be set with the teacher. If further action is necessary, contact the principal.

PUNISHMENT: Some form of discipline is necessary sometimes.. Lee Canter’s Assertive Discipline techniques are used. Also refer to Bristol TN Discipline Policy.

PUPIL ACTIVITIES: Programs of school activities must be developed and must function within the framework of the Bristol Tennessee School System’s educational and organizational program.. Field trips shall be taken for definite educational purposes to specific places of educational value. Parents must sign permission forms before children may participate in a field trip.

SCHOOL DAY: The school day begins at 8:10 A.M. and ends at 3:10 P.M. for all students. Children in the regular program must arrive after 8:00 A.M. and must leave immediately after the dismissal bell unless prior arrangements are made with the teacher or the Y.M.C.A. Extended day program.
The extended day program is being operated under contract with the Y.M.C.A. Students participating in this program may arrive as early as 7:00 A.M. and may stay after school until 6:00 P.M. A fee will be charged by the Y.M.C.A. for this service.
Please direct your questions concerning extended day services to Patty Browning, Bristol TN/VA Y.M.C.A. , PHONE 968-3133.

SCHOOL VISITATION: As a matter of courtesy, teachers should be notified in advance of a planned visit. Early morning notification is required when you plan to eat lunch. Any visitor must check with the office for authorization to visit. Students are asked not to bring smaller brothers and/or sisters, cousins, or friends to school with them for the day.

SNOW SCHEDULE: (1) When we announce that a snow schedule is in effect for the Bristol Tennessee City Schools, this means that the school will operate two hours later than usual; that is, school will begin at 10:10 A.M. All children will be dismissed at 3:10 P.M. as usual. School buses will also operate two hours later on snow schedule mornings. Snow schedules will be announced on radio, television or you may call 652-9544 for updated information. Buses will run on streets that are considered to be safe by the bus drivers on snow schedule days. (2) If school is dismissed early for bad weather, you will be notified by radio, television and on the system number 652-9544. Please discuss with your child what he she should do in this event.

SPECIAL CLASSES: Special classes are provided by the Bristol School System for pupils whose physical, mental, and emotional needs require them. Transportation is provided when required. In school instruction is given to individuals and small groups who have special situations or learning difficulties.

STRANGERS ON SCHOOL PREMISES: Any person coming into the building should go by the office and let his/her presence be known and why he/she is there. Any unauthorized person will be asked to leave.

SUSPENSION OF PUPILS BY PRINCIPAL: The principal is authorized to suspend a pupil from attendance at school, including its sponsored activities, or from riding a school bus, for good and sufficient reasons. These may include but shall not be limited to: (1) willful and persistent violation of school rules or truancy, (2) immoral or disreputable conduct or vulgar or profane language, (3) marking, defacing, or destroying school property, (4) Possession of a knife, etc., on school property, (5) any other conduct prejudicial to good order or discipline. (School Board Policy 8.125)

TARDINESS: A student is marked tardy if he/she arrives at school after 8:10 A.M. Tardy students must come by the office for an admit slip. Habitual tardiness will result in a referral to the attendance teacher.

TELEPHONE: Students are permitted to use the telephone only in case of emergency, or with a teacher’s permission. Continuous forgetfulness and after school personal calls are not emergencies.

TEXTBOOKS: Textbooks are furnished by the state and the city. When a student loses or damages a textbook, he must make a reasonable reimbursement.

TRAFFIC RULES: To avoid traffic pile up and to eliminate the danger of double lanes of traffic in front of the building, only the buses will unload at the main front doors. The bus/fire lane has been marked with yellow paint and no parking or unloading will be permitted from this lane. Parents who bring their children to school will circle the building from the right, with unloading zones designated as follows: (1) Kindergarten and First Grade children (Pod A) will enter the building through the main door nearest the Pod B playground. (2) Second and Third Grade children (Pod B) will enter the building through the main door nearest the gym. (3) Fourth, Fifth and Sixth year children (Pods C and D) will enter the building through the main door nearest the kindergarten playground. Children who walk or ride their bikes may enter the building through the main front doors or the main door nearest the bike racks. In order to avoid having children cross in front of traffic, we are asking that drivers of Pod A and Pod B children remain to the left of the driveway as they circle the building, entering the right lane only after unloading, and drivers of Pods C and D children remain to the right, entering the left lane only to unload children at the main door nearest the kindergarten playground. If you have children with two unloading zones, please unload at the door designated for the youngest child. It will help keep traffic moving if you see that your child has all necessary items (lunch, books, homework, money, etc.,) before you leave home. If you need to enter the building, please park in one of the many available spaces on either side of the building. Parking spaces in front are reserved for teachers. No parking will be permitted in the fire lane or in the circle around the flag pole. Afternoon dismissal will follow the same general procedure. Only children riding the buses will exit from the main front door. All others will exit from the same doors they entered.

WRITTEN EXCUSES: Written excuses to the teacher are required for absences, tardiness, to remain in room during play period, or early dismissal.

Y.M.C.A. EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM: This program is offered to students in grades K-6 at Holston View.
The main goals of the YMCA Extended Day program are:
1. To provide a safe stimulating, fun place for children
2. To encourage and teach independence, respect and responsibility
3. To provide parents with worry-free care.
Before school programs include choices and activities. After school activities include gym time, arts and crafts, nutritious snack, homework help, room games, swim time once a week (transport to the YMCA starting in September), free play and a lot of fun and caring.
Full days are also included in the regular fee on the following basis: (1) If schools close early, children will stay at the school with parent pick-up or until 6:00 PM (unless specified on YMCA calendar). (2) If school is not in session, parents are to bring children to the YMCA at additional costs). Optional summer day camp is offered which provides full day activities on a weekly basis.
HOURS: Morning (M-F) 7:00-8:00 AM
After School (M-F) 3:00-6:00 PM
Full Day at YMCA (when schools closed) 7:00 AM-6:00 PM
2002-03 SCHOOL YEAR PROGRAM FEES (All fees payable to YMCA Extended Day Program.)
Registration Fee (nonrefundable)
New Family $20.00
Drop-in Basis $10.00
Returning family attending year round-no fee.
Returning family not attending in summer. $5.00
Before School Nonrefundable registration fee $10.00 per family
7:00-8:00 AM-$7.00 all inclusive fee for 1-5 days. includes 10-2hr.delays
Regular After School
5 day K-6th grade (3:00-6:00 PM) 1 child $36.00 per wk., each additional child $27.00 per wk.
Drop in Basis
Drop-in basis is available for after school, full days and less than 5 days a week. This can act as an emergency plan during the school year in case unexpected circumstances arise requiring this service. Special drop-in arrangements, depending on space availability, can be made in advance at a rate of $4.00 per hour. Daily rates are as follows:
After school fee $ 9.00
Full Day $16.00
Full Wk. $65.00
If you are interested in an opening, fill in a registration form and give it to a YMCA staff at the school or at the YMCA. Mail it to the Extended Day Director, 400 Edgemont Avenue, Bristol, TN 37620. You will be contacted as soon as possible. Flexibility in fees is allowed for those who cannot afford to pay full cost. The YMCA does not discriminate with regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin or handicap. PHONE 968-3133

AWARDS
Students have the opportunity to earn awards through many of their experiences at Holston View Elementary School. There are awards presented at AWARDS DAY at the end of school for recognition of those students who have achievements in academics, attendance and good citizenship. Many other incentive programs are used for the children, to help them enjoy school in a positive climate.
HONOR ROLL
OUTSTANDING HONOR STUDENT - Students who achieve all "A"s in each of their subjects and no Unsatisfactory in any area during any five out of six six-weeks.
HONOR STUDENTS - Students who achieve all "A"s and "B"s in each of their subjects and no Unsatisfactory in any area during any five out of six six-weeks.
PERFECT ATTENDANCE - Students maintaining perfect attendance (present every day) for the entire year are recognized on AWARDS DAY and receive a certificate.
PRESIDENTIAL AWARD - The guidelines for this award are established by the President’s Office for Academic Excellence and are awarded to sixth graders.
GOOD CITIZEN - Students who demonstrate good behavior by following classroom and school rules. This award is given to a student in each class each six weeks.
STUDENT OF THE WEEK - This award is given weekly to a deserving student in each class, for good work, behavior, or improvement as judged by the teacher.
**There is a school-wide assembly at the end of the first five- six weeks periods and each child who qualifies for a ticket will have an opportunity to have their ticket picked from the box and awards are give - coupons, certificates, cash!!
1 ticket - Perfect Attendance
1 ticket - Good Citizen
1 ticket - Grade Improvement
2 tickets - Honor Roll
READING COUNTS - Students are required to achieve the following :
5 books per six weeks Grades 1,2,& 3 ( reading Test grade),4 books per six weeks Grades 4,5, & 6 (20% of reading grade)

GRADINGPOLICY
GRADES K-6
BRISTOL TN CITY SCHOOLS

INTRODUCTION
The purpose of grading is to form a communication channel between the school(teacher) and the student and his/her parent or guardian to express the student’s status in achieving the goals of the class or grade. Because goals often exceed those defined by subject matter achievement, teachers and parents are encouraged to use the comment section of the report cards to share additional information that would promote the student’s success. If space allocations are insufficient, attached notes are encouraged.
PHILOSOPHY
The Bristol Tennessee City Schools will be conducted with the philosophy that individuals learn best when the environment in which they function promotes an atmosphere conductive to continuous intellectual growth and which emphasizes the worth and dignity of the individual functioning in a democracy. It is the joint responsibility of the school staff and the family to seek to instill in each individual student the desire to achieve at an optimum level, the desire to conform to the rules of society and the desire to understand and accept the responsibilities of being a positive contributor to society. Insofar as it is possible within the framework of public education, each student shall be provided with opportunities to achieve maximum individual potential in educational, spiritual, physical, social, emotional, and moral growth. Community participation in the schools shall be actively encouraged in order to promote the positive influence which has historically made the school a focal point of the community.

SYSTEM WIDE APPLICATION
I. Grade/Course Assignment
A. Student grade assignment in kindergarten and first grade is in accordance with Minimum Rules and Regulation which focuses on entrance age and skills.
B. Student grade or course assignment in grades 2-12 is based upon previous grades in related courses, standardized test scores, and recommendations of previous and current teachers. However, students may work at a different level after they or their parent/guardian request a conference to initiate the procedure for a change of placement.
C. When possible, requests for change of grade or course assignment should be addressed before the semester or the school year begins by both the person requesting the change and the school involved.
D. Students are not required to repeat a course or grade with a teacher in whose class they have failed unless no other teacher has been assigned a section of that course or that grade.
E. When a student enters our system from out of district, the student is placed in the grade level specified on the record from the previous school. If records are not immediately available, the student is given an interim grade/course assignment in an age appropriate level until records are received.
When a student enters our system and there are no current records available, the student is tested to determine the appropriate academic setting.
A student entering our system from a non-approved setting may be tested to determine the grade/course assignment as provided in Minimum Rules and Regulations.II. Reporting Student Progress
A. Formal reporting of pupil progress occurs by sending "Report Cards" home. In grades K-6 these are to be signed and returned to the school.
B. Each six-week reporting period will include at least one mandatory interim report to the parents. The interim format will be determined at the individual school by its faculty and administrator.
C. Parents who do not receive reports cards each six weeks should call the school if they do not know the reason. Reasons for not sending report cards may include incomplete work by the student, overdue library books, etc.
D. Teachers are encouraged to communicate regularly with parents via sending samples of student’s work home for review, making phone calls, writing notes, and conduction conferences.
III. Conduct
A. Conduct is noted on report cards in grades K-6, but behavior does not influence grades, promotion, or retention, except as it influences a student’s ability to learn.
B. Students who persist in disruptive behavior after counseling and corrective discipline may be removed from class to protect the rights of other students.
IV. Attendance
The Bristol Tennessee Board of Education attendance policy #8.101 influences class credits and promotion/retention. This policy should be reviewed if questions exist.

GRADES K-6
I. Grade Reporting
A. Grading Symbols
1. Kindergarten
S - Satisfactory progress
N - Needs improvement through additional classroom and home experiences
2. First Grade
E - Student achieves at a better than average rate in the grade level curriculum
S - Student achieves at an average rate in the grade level curriculum
N - Student needs to show academic improvement
U - Student’s academic progress indicates that retention is possible
3. Grades 2-6
90-100 A
83-89 B
75-82 C
70-74 D
69 and below F
B. Letter grades will be used on the report cards.
C. The use of pluses and minuses will be considered optional; however, only letter grades will be transferred to a student’s permanent record.
D. Second grade will not formally grade social studies, science, or health.

II. Promotion/Retention/Placement
Promotion is defined as a student’s advancement to the next grade level because of satisfactory completion of an academic program in a given school term.
Retention is a student’s non-advancement to the next grade level.
Placement is the designated assignment to the next higher grade level in situations where academic achievement is not satisfactory but a team of educators and others (specified according to the needs of the individual student) have determined it not to be in the best interest of the student to be retained.
A. Grades kindergarten and first
Students are promoted if satisfactory progress has been made in reading and math.
B. Grades two and three
Students are promoted if students have passed reading and math. Academically, a "D" reflects
less that satisfactory progress; however, a "D" is considered passing and an average of "D" would generally constitute promotion.
C. Grades four, five, and six
Students are promoted if they have passed
English, reading and math plus two of the
following: spelling, social studies, or science/health. In grades 4-6, science and health will constitute a single grade.
D. A students who fails the second semester’s work in grades 2-6 but whose average for the year is "D" or higher in courses required for promotion will be the subject of an interdisciplinary team meeting consisting of the classroom teacher(s), principal, and parents. These individuals will review the classroom academic record of the student and other data in determining whether the student’s best interest could be served by remaining another year at the same grade level. The final decision in such cases will be made by the school principal. Results of these meetings will be forwarded to the Elementary Supervisor of Instruction on appropriate forms.
E. A student who fails to meet the criteria for promotion becomes the subject of an interdisciplinary meeting. The purpose of the meeting is to review the student’s academic and
social characteristics to determine his/her best
placement.
F. The following data are used in determining a student’s grade/course assignment:
1. Academic achievement
-Six-week grades
-Criterion-referenced achievement tests
-Norm-referenced achievement tests
2. Student characteristics
-Physical size Social interaction
-Age Previous retentions
-Maturity Attendance
-Potential Parental input
-Effort
G. Time Line for Possible Retentions: The teacher will schedule a conference with a parents at the interim of the fourth six-weeks concerning a possible retention. An explanation of the student’s current academic standing in relation to his/her class and individual ability shall be given to the parents. A conference form stating recommendations and rationale for possible retention will be signed by the parents and school officials. If the parents are unable to attend the meeting, this form will be mailed o the home.
Documentation of impending retention will be placed on the grade card in the comment section by the end of the fourth six-weeks. Another conference will be held at least two weeks before the end of school to determine the final recommendation for promotion, retention, or placement. Placement indicates that the above procedures were used to determine that although the student is not achieving at a satisfactory level, it is not in the best interest of the
student to be retained.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES
BRISTOL TN CITY SCHOOLS

SCHOOL BOARD POLICY 8.123
PHILOSOPHY
It is the belief of the Bristol Tennessee City School System that all students and parents should expect and support a safe, orderly, non-threatening environment in order to have a maximum benefit in the educational setting. The system also believes that all teachers have the right to teach and that all students have the right to learn. The ultimate objective is to insure students’ rights to an educational opportunity which protects and nurtures an effective sense of well-being, emotional maturity, and social sensitivity, and which promotes and enhances characteristics for the preservation of a democratic society. Consequently, each student must share with teachers and administrators a sense of individual responsibility in maintaining order at school by complying with the school’s code of discipline. The individual rights of each student must be balanced by the school’s responsibility to protect the health, safety, and welfare of all students.
The Board of Education, Director of Schools, Supervisors, Administrators, Teachers, and other Staff Members given specific disciplinary responsibility are authorized and expected to use just, prudent, and reasonable measures to achieve, promote, and insure the disciplinary expectations of the community in which we live. Due process is assured, with careful attention given to fair and consistent procedures and methods for all students.
Inherent in a philosophy such as this are the policies and procedures, as well as, state and federal laws, deemed necessary to implement the principles of the philosophy. Therefore, the Bristol Tennessee City School System exercises a disciplinary system which is intolerant of serious or continuous infractions of our codes of conduct, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE CODE
Part I
Teachers and administrators shall strive to create a school environment favorable to the development of self-discipline, self-esteem, and self-direction. Acceptable behavior is essential to an effective school program.
The school provides each student with the maximum opportunity to acquire an education. No student has the right to interfere with this opportunity by his actions, poor manners, or lack of consideration. All rules and regulations are developed and enforced with this thought in mind.
Students are under the supervision of many teachers during the school day. Individual teachers have classroom standards, and students must learn to abide by those standards. The teacher has the authority to maintain discipline and is expected to exercise the responsibility to do so. A teacher’s authority to control pupil conduct extends to all activities of the school, including games of athletic teams, public performances of any school group, trips, excursions, and any other school activity. When a problem occurs, the teacher has several options:
Have a conference with the student
Have a conference with the parent
Have a conference with a guidance counselor when possible
Administer discipline in accordance with school and system rules
Refer the student to a school administrator
Administrators have discretion in dealing with referred problems. Forms are provided for discipline problems referred to administrators. A system-wide Discipline Referral Form which assures due process will be utilized in all suspension offenses and Category III infractions. This referral will provide four copies: one copy each for the teacher, school, parents or guardian of the student, and Supervisor Student Personnel.
PROCEDURES TO FOLLOW
These procedures follow a prescribed method for levels of infractions. are escalating in nature, and do not preclude immediate disciplinary actions for serious infractions:
1. Each teacher has the responsibility for maintaining discipline in the classroom in compliance with Board Policy #8.122 (formerly Policy #6005 R-3).
2. If it becomes necessary to refer a student to an administrator, referral forms will be provided for specific information.
3. The administrator will write the action taken on this referral.
4. The administrator is authorized to suspend a student for reasons listed in Part II.
5. Following the suspension of a student, the principal will report the action to the Director of Schools, Supervisor of Student Personnel, and the student’s parent/guardian.
6. If chronic problems persist, the student will be referred to the individual school’s Discipline Intervention Panel, appointed by the administrator, which will review the situation and communicate with all involved parties the available options and resources to help the child.
7. If discipline problems persist, a complete report will be presented to the Director of Schools. At that time, the Director of Schools may extend a suspension or may present to the board a recommendation for long-term suspension. Parents will have the opportunity to appeal to the Administrative Hearing Authority, composed of three to five administrators appointed by the Director of Schools.
8. The procedure for long-term suspension are outlined below:
A. Document chronologically all discipline problems which have
occurred during the current year.
B. Document all communications, both oral and written, with parents/guardian.
C. Document the various strategies which have been implemented.
D. Follow School Board Policy 8.122 and suspend for five days with a written recommendation to the Director of Schools to place on a long-term suspension.
E. The Director of Schools suspends for more than ten days and notifies the parents/guardian of the right to appeal to Discipline Hearing Authority (DHA) established under Policy #8.126.
F. The chairman of the DHA will perform the following duties:
(1) identify the members of the DHA assigned to hear each case;
(2) prepare and disseminate minutes of each meeting;
(3) set the time, place, and date of each meeting;
(4) notify appropriate persons of each meeting within 48 hours after receiving notification of the hearing request;
(5) sign copy of minutes of the meeting.
G. The members of the DHA will review all written documentation and listen to any
comments from student, parents/guardian, or the building administrator.
H. The DHA may take the following disciplinary action:
(1) uphold the suspension;
(2) order the removal of the suspension unconditionally;
(3) order the removal of the suspension upon such items and conditions as it deems reasonable;
(4) assign the student to an alternative placement;
(5) suspend the student for a specified period of time.
I. If a review of the DHA hearing is requested by either the student or the principal, the Board shall review the record and shall;
(1) affirm the decision of the DHA;
(2) modify the decision;
(3) grant a hearing before the board.
J. If the Board chooses to grant a hearing, it may:
(1) affirm the decision of the DHA;
(2) modify the decision;
(3) impose a more severe penalty of the DHA.
K. The decision of the Board is final.
* Note - Students and parents/guardian can be liable for medical and/or property damage.

PART II
Discipline offenses are classified into three categories and are applicable in the classroom, in the school, and at any school function. The examples offered are not all-conclusive. The building administrator will be responsible for classifying any offense not categorized unless otherwise instructed by the Director of Schools. An attitude which reflects an intolerance for violent or abusive behavior guides the disciplinary approach of the school system.
CATEGORY I
Offenses include minor misbehavior which impede or interrupt orderly classroom procedures. These offenses usually can be handled by individual staff members, but sometimes, especially after repetition of similar infractions, may be referred to the administrator.
VIOLATIONS
1. Classroom disturbance; misbehavior
2. Cheating
3. Forgery of notes, excuses, or school documents
4. Tardiness to school/class
5. Refusal to participate or to do assigned work
6. Minor violations of school rules
7. Improper language
8. Any conduct prejudicial to good order or discipline
CATEGORY II
Offenses include frequent behaviors which disrupt the learning climate. Many infractions in this category result from continuation of Category I violations. They require intervention of administrative personnel due to ineffectiveness of earlier disciplinary procedures. Also included are more serious offenses requiring immediate attention of the administration. These offenses may result in some type of suspension, alternative plan or placement, or referral outside the school.
VIOLATIONS
1. Continuation of Category I offenses
2. Truancy, skipping class
3. Leaving school or class without permission
4. Vandalism; misuse or destruction of property of others or the school
5. Theft
6. Possession/use of tobacco products or paraphernalia
7. Chronic disruptive, disrespectful, insubordinate, or other defiant behavior
8. Obscene, foul, slanderous, libelous, or abusive language directed toward students or personnel
9. Harassment
10. Gambling
11. Lack of required immunization
12. Intimidating or threatening
13. Deprivation of another’s right to attend school
14. False fire alarm or report
15. Possession, receipt, or sale of stolen property
16. Trespassing
17. Prescription medication violation
18. Inciting, advising, or counseling others to engage in any misconduct
19. Lewd or lascivious behavior
20. Possession of an incendiary device
21. Aggressive interference with normal school operations
22. Wearing any item denoting any type of gang affiliation (TCA 49-6-4215)
23. Violation of bus transportation rules
CATEGORY III
Offenses include acts which may endanger the health or safety of self or others. Also included are acts of violence to another’s person or property or acts which pose a direct threat, either actual or perceived, to the safety of others in the school. Discipline will include out-of-school suspensions, short or long-term, and/or referral to the Discipline Intervention Panel, an alternative plan, placement, or referral to law enforcement. All offenses in this category will be reported to the Director of Schools.
** The minimum disciplinary action for any violation in Category III is three days out-of school suspension.
VIOLATIONS
1. Continuation of Category II offenses
2. Arson
3. Bomb threat
4. Violent, uncontrollable behavior
5. Assault
6. Detonation of an incendiary device
7. Deliberate and willful inhalation or consumption of dangerous substances
8. Fighting
9. Extortion
10. Violent or threatened violence against school personnel
11. Indecent exposure
12. Possession, sale, or distribution of drug paraphernalia, including pagers
(TCA 49-6-4202, 49-6-4214)
13. Use of Alcohol/Drugs/Controlled Substances (TCA 49-6-4202)
CATEGORY IV
Violation of any of the following offenses will receives an automatic long-term suspension in accordance with state law and School Board policy.
1. Possession and/or use of a deadly weapon (TCA 49-6-4202)
2. Possession of drugs or controlled substance (TCA 49-6-4203)
3. Battery on a teacher or other school personnel
(TCA 49-6-42 and 49-6-9(a)(b)
The Director of Schools shall have the authority to modify this suspension requirement on a case-by-case basis.

KEEP GOOD STUDY HABITS -
BEGIN EACH DAY WITH A POSITIVE ATTITUDE AND TRY TO IMPROVE YOURSELF -
EAT, SLEEP, AND EXERCISE PROPERLY - FOR A BETTER LIFE!!-

FIVE AREAS OF EMPHASIS FOR THE FACULTY AND STAFF AT HOLSTON VIEW SCHOOL
SCHOOL CLIMATE
PLANNING
STAFF DEVELOPMENT
CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION
COMMUNICATION
ALL AREAS ARE FOR THE BETTERMENT OF THE STUDENTS AND COMMUNITY