TABLE OF CONTENTS
Emergency Closings
Promotion and Retention
Child Custody
Administering Medication
Communicable Diseases
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
CODE OF ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR AND DISCIPLINE
Mission and Beliefs
Procedural Due Processes
Interrogations and Searches
Discipline Procedures
Bus Conduct
Tobacco-Free Schools
Drug-Free Schools
Weapons and Dangerous Instruments
Corporal Punishment
Suspension/Expulsions/Remand
Zero Tolerance Offenses
Reporting Student Offenses to Law Enforcement
Student Disciplinary Hearing Authority
Disposal of Contraband
Admission of Suspended or Expelled Students
Gang Activity or Association
Use of Personal Communication Devices in School
Discrimination/Harassment of Students
Complaint Procedure
Internet Access by Students
Care of School Property
Dress Code
Attendance
Truancy
Student Records
Inspection and Correction Procedure
Annual Notification of Rights
Use of Student Records
School Visitors
Special Education Programs and Services
Gifted Education

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EMERGENCY CLOSINGS- Back to Table of Contents-
TheDirector of Schools is empowered to close the schools, to delay the opening time, or to dismiss schools early in the event of hazardous weather or other emergencies which threaten the health or safety of students and personnel.

In making the decision to close schools, the Director of Schools shall consider many factors including the following principal ones relating to the fundamental concern for the safety and health of children:

1. Weather conditions, both existing and predicted;
2. Driving, traffic, and parking conditions affecting public and private transportation facilities;
3. Actual occurrence or the imminent possibility of any emergency condition which would make the operation of schools difficult or dangerous; and
4. Inability of teaching personnel to report for duty which might result in inadequate supervision of students.
If schools do remain open, the ultimate decision regarding attendance will be left to the parent of the individual child. Announcements concerning closings will be furnished to a local radio station, Cable Channel 3 and the three Nashville network television stations no later than 6 a.m. if possible. When schools are closed for emergency reasons, staff members shall comply with Administrative Directive 2.3 in reporting for work.

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Board Policy STU 1- Back to Table of Contents-
PROMOTION AND RETENTION
Every effort is made to place the pupil where the pupil is afforded the best opportunity to make continuous progress in the instructional structure of the school. In some cases, this results in a pupil’s being reassigned at the same grade level for a second year. The attempt is then made to provide instruction at the pupil’s instructional level rather than merely to have him/her repeat a given “package” of instruction.

The teacher is responsible for informing parents early when there is indication that the child’s achievement will not enable the pupil to progress successfully at the next grade level in the following year. The parents are to be involved in such decisions regarding placement; however, the final decision rests with the teacher and in controversial cases the principal's approval is necessary.

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Board Policy IS 14- Back to Table of Contents-
CHILD CUSTODY
If a dispute between divorced or separated parents leads to a request for the school’s help in protecting an enrolled or enrolling child, the parent or guardian must provide a copy of that portion of the divorce decree or court order relating to custody of the child.

So that school officials may have information regarding the non-custodial parent, the custodial parent will be asked to provide a name, a photograph, and the address of the non-custodial parent if such information is available.
If a custodial parent advises the school of a possible abduction, the parent should provide a name, photo, and description of the possible abductor.

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Board Policy STU 33- Back to Table of Contents-
ADMINISTERING MEDICINES TO STUDENTS
It is the policy of the Murfreesboro City Schools that all children’s medication be administered by a parent at home. When necessary, school personnel may assist with
self-administration under the appropriate administrative regulations.
In emergency situations, epinephrine injections may be administered by school personnel provided that they have received training regarding such medication administration and provided that written permission for administration from a parent or guardian has been obtained.

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Board Policy STU 11- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference
T.C.A. 49-5-415
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES (STUDENTS)
No student will be denied an education solely by reason of a communicable disease, and his educational program shall be restricted only to the extent necessary to minimize the risk of transmitting the disease.

Parents or guardians of infected students shall inform appropriate school officials of
the infection so that proper precautions for the protection of other students, employees,
and the infected student shall be taken.No student with a communicable disease which may endanger the health of either himself/herself or other individuals will enter or remain in the regular school setting. If a school principal has reason to believe a student has a communicable disease which may endanger the health of either himself/herself or other individuals in the regular school setting, the principal shall:
1. Assign the student to a setting which protects other students, employees, and the student himself/herself; or
2. Exclude the student from school until certification is obtained from a physician
or the Rutherford County Health Department by either the parent or principal stating that the student is no longer communicable.
If the principal has reason to believe that the student has a long-term communicable disease, the principal must require confirmation from a physician or the Rutherford County Health Department and may request periodic re-examinations after the student has been readmitted to the school.
Expenses incurred for examination requested by school officials shall be paid by the Board.
The names of all students excluded from school under this policy will be forwarded to the office of the Director of Schools.

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Board Policy STU 31- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
1. TRR/MS 0520-1-3.08(4)(c)(1)
2. T.C.A. 49-20203(b)(2)
ACQUIREDIMMUNE DEFICIENCY SYNDROME
STUDENTS/PERSONNEL LIABILITY AND NON-DISCRIMINATION
Students infected with HIV shall not be denied enrollment in school. The Board shall not prevent an HIV infected student from participating in the continuation of the student’s education on the basis of HIV infection.

Mandatory screening for communicable diseases not spread by casual everyday contact, such as HIV infection, shall not be a condition for school entry or attendance.

ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES
If a student’s parent/guardians choose to disclose the child’s HIV status, all matters pertaining to that student will be under the direct supervision of the Director of Schools.

The Director of Schools shall convene an evaluation team composed of the student’s parents/guardian, the student’s physician if she/he elects to attend, a physician or nurse from the Public Health Department as designated by the regional health officer and a representative of the local education agency as designated by the Director of Schools. The evaluation team shall evaluate and review the student’s health status relative to attending school.

The Director of Schools shall be responsible for requesting medical records from the parent/guardian and a statement from the student’s physician regarding the health status of the student reported to have HIV/AIDS. In addition, the Director of Schools will gather information regarding the student’s cumulative school record. These records will be reviewed by the evaluation team.
The evaluation team shall assume responsibility for determining when a student’s medical condition warrants the student’s removal from the classroom. For any child determined as warranting removal from the classroom due to medical reasons, the school shall be responsible for determining the appropriate educational program for the child. The parent/guardian shall be included as part of the local decision-making process.

Because HIV/AIDS infection is a progressive disease, semi-annual medical and educational monitoring will be conducted by the evaluation team using the latest public health information.

CONFIDENTIALITY
No information concerning an HIV infected student shall be divulged, directly or indirectly, to any other individual or group without the written consent of the parent/guardian. All medical information and written documentation of discussions, telephone conversations, proceedings and meetings shall be kept by the Director of Schools in a locked file. If the HIV infected student is under the age of eighteen (18), access to this file will be granted only to those persons who have the written consent of the infected student’s parents/guardians. Individuals will be informed of a student’s HIV infection on a “Need To Know” basis, as decided by the evaluation team, with the written consent of the parent/guardian.

Under no circumstances shall information identifying a student with AIDS be released to the public.

APPROPRIATE ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAMS
An educational program shall be developed for each student infected with HIV/AIDS. If a change in an HIV infected student’s educational program becomes necessary (due to a secondary infection that constitutes a medically recognized risk of HIV transmission in the school setting or deteriorating health of the student) the Director of Schools, parent/guardian, and the treating physician will develop an appropriate educational program in the least restrictive environment which is medically, legally and educationally sound. If the HIV infected student is receiving special education services, these services will be in agreement with established policies.

Reassessment of educational placement will be conducted semi-annually.

CURRICULUM
The Director of Schools shall be responsible for developing instructional objectives to address each terminal objective in the state AIDS curriculum framework and provide each teacher responsible for teaching AIDS education with these objectives.

The state AIDS curriculum and related instructional objectives will be used in grades K-6.

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Board Policy STU 32- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
TRR/MS0502-1-3-08(2)(g)
T.C.A. 68-10-113
20 USC 1232(g); 34 CFR 300.571-2
TRR/MS 0520-1-3-.05(1)(c)
CODE OF ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR

AND DISCIPLINE INTRODUCTION
The purpose of the Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline of the Murfreesboro City Schools is to assist students, parents, teachers, and school administrators in the maintenance of an environment which will enhance the achievement of the mission of the Murfreesboro City Schools.

The Code is based on some of the Murfreesboro City School System’s board policies, administrative directives, regulations, guidelines, and procedures. This is not an exclusive list of student policies. For a complete list of policies, refer to the Murfreesboro City Board of Education Board Policies which are available at any city school and which will be available online at cityschools.net in the near future.

The Murfreesboro City School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status in the provision of services, in programs or activities, or in employment opportunities and benefits. Questions or concerns should be directed to the Director of Human Resources.

Inquiries regarding compliance with Title IX should be directed to Mr. Phillip Huddleston. Inquiries regarding Section 504 or the Americans with Disabilities Act should be directed to Ms. Priscilla Van Tries. The current complaint managers for complaints involving sexual harassment are Dr. Linda Arms Gilbert and Mr. Phillip Huddleston, Murfreesboro City School System, 2552 South Church Street, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37127. Telephone: (615) 893-2313.

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MISSION AND BELIEFS- Back to Table of Contents-
The mission of the Murfreesboro City School System is to assure academic and
personal success for each child.
To be fully effective, the Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline addresses
the roles of the students, the parents, the teachers, and the schools.

WE BELIEVE THE STUDENTSHOULD:
• Be punctual and present at school;
• Have materials necessary for work;
• Respect the property and rights of others;
• Be responsible for his/her own work;
• Dress and groom in a manner that is not distracting to the classroom atmosphere or to the educational process;
• Adhere to rules and regulations set forth by the school and individual teachers; and
• Demonstrate respect for all adults on school premises.

WE BELIEVE THE PARENTSHOULD:
• Be responsible for the child attending school on time daily;
• Ensure that the child has materials necessary for work at school;
• Encourage the child to conduct himself/herself in a safe and appropriate manner at school;
• Provide for the personal cleanliness, physical well being, and grooming of the child;
• Keep open communications regarding anything that may affect the child’s schoolwork; and
• Support the school’s instructional program through supervising homework, attending parent conferences, discussing reports from school, etc.

WE BELIEVE THE TEACHER SHOULD:
• Maintain the orderly, planned, and varied instructional climate that includes materials and activities of interest to students;
• Inform the students of rules that are reasonable for school and classroom behavior;
• Manage the behavior of students in a fair, firm, and consistent manner;
• Maintain open communication with parents; and
• Promote a positive relationship and a feeling of respect among staff and students.

WE BELIEVE THE SCHOOL SHOULD:
• Foster a feeling of respect for each child, his/her classmates, and the school staff;
• Respect and value individual differences among children and staff;
• Inform the students and parents of the Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline of the Murfreesboro City Schools;
• Maintain an atmosphere which encourages appropriate behavior;
• Plan a program which includes a curriculum to meet the needs of all children;
• Provide citizenship experiences necessary to function in a democratic society;
• Communicate with parents concerning their child’s conduct and progress; and
• Maintain a safe environment for children.

Board Policy STU 22- Back to Table of Contents-
PROCEDURAL DUE PROCESS
Every student has a right to due process guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States of America. Except in an emergency, the student shall be advised of the nature of his/her misconduct, be questioned about it, and be given opportunity to explain his/her actions.

Students are to be reminded that in exercising their rights, they must not interfere with the rights of others, disrupt the educational program, or violate the laws of the federal, state, and local governments or the policies of the Murfreesboro City School Board of Education.

Board Policy STU 20- Back to Table of Contents-
INTERROGATIONS AND SEARCHES

INTERROGATIONS BY SCHOOL PERSONNEL
Students may be questioned by teachers or principals about any matter pertaining to the operation of a school and/or the enforcement of its rules. Questioning should be conducted discreetly and under circumstances which will avoid unnecessary embarrassment to the student being questioned. Any student answering falsely, evasively, or refusing to answer a proper question may be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension.

If a student is suspected or accused of misconduct or infraction of the Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline, the principal may interrogate the student without the presence of parent(s)/guardian(s) or legal custodians and without giving the student constitutional warnings.

INTERROGATIONSBY POLICE
(AT ADMINISTRATOR’S REQUEST)
If the principal has requested assistance by the police department to investigate a crime involving his/her school, the police shall have permission to interrogate the student in school during school hours. The principal shall first attempt to notify the parent(s)/guardian(s) or legal custodians of the student of the intended interrogation, but the interrogation may proceed without attendance of the parent(s)/guardian(s) or legal custodians. The principal or his/her designee shall be present during the interrogation.

POLICE-INITIATEDINTERROGATIONS
If the police deem circumstances of sufficient urgency to interrogate students at school for unrelated crimes committed outside of school hours, the police department shall first contact the principal regarding the planned interrogation and inform him/her of the probable cause to investigate within the school. The principal shall make a reasonable effort to notify the parent(s)/guardian(s) or legal custodians of the interrogation, but the interrogation may proceed without attendance of the parent(s)/guardian(s) or legal custodians. The principal or his/her designee shall be present during the interrogation. If practicable, the use of female staff members or police officers should be considered in any search of female students.

SEARCHES BY SCHOOL PERSONNEL
Any principal or his/her designee having reasonable suspicion may search any student, place, or thing on school property, or in the actual or constructive possession of any student during any organized school activity off campus, including buses, vehicles of students or visitors (notice shall be posted in the school parking lot that vehicles parked on school property by students or visitors are subject to search for drugs, drug paraphernalia, or dangerous weapons), and containers or packages if he/she receives information which would cause a reasonable belief that the search will lead to the discovery of:

1. Evidence of any violation of the law;
2. Evidence of any violation of school rules or regulations or proper standards of student or faculty conduct;
3. Any object or substance which, because of its presence, presents an immediate danger or harm or illness to any person.

A student using a locker that is the property of the school system does not have the right of privacy in that locker or its contents. All lockers or other storage areas provided for student use on school premises remain the property of the school system and are provided for the use of students subject to inspection, access for maintenance, and search. Notice shall be posted in each school that lockers and other storage areas are school property and are subject to search.

A student may be subject to physical search or a student’s pocket, purse, or other container may be required to be emptied because of the results of a locker search or because of information received from a teacher, staff member, or other student if such action is reasonable to the principal. All of the following standards of reasonableness shall be met:

1. A particular student is reasonably believed to have violated policy;
2. The search could be expected to yield evidence of the violation of school policy or disclosure of a dangerous weapon or drug;
3. The search is in pursuit of legitimate interests of the school in maintaining order, discipline, safety, supervision, and education of students;
4. The primary purpose of the search is not to collect evidence for a criminal prosecution; and
5. The search shall be reasonable, related to the objectives of the search, and not excessively intrusive in light of the age and sex of the student, as well as the nature of the infraction alleged to have been committed.

School officials may conduct hand-held or walk-through metal detector checks of a student’s person or personal effects.

SEARCHES BY POLICE
If public health or safety is involved, upon request of the principal who shall be present, police officers may make a general search of students’ lockers and desks, or students’ or nonstudents’ automobiles for drugs, weapons, or items of an illegal or prohibited nature.

If the principal has received reliable information which he/she believes to be true that evidence of a crime or of stolen goods, not involving school property of members of the school staff or student body, is located on school property and that any search for such evidence or goods would be unrelated to school discipline or to the health and safety of a student or the student body, he/she shall request police assistance, and procedures to obtain and execute a search warrant shall thereafter be followed unless there are grounds for a warrantless search.

Anything found in the course of the search conducted in accordance with this policy which is evidence of a violation of the law or a violation of student conduct standards
may be:

1. Seized and admitted as evidence in any hearing, trial, suspension, or dismissal proceeding. It should be tagged for identification at the time it is seized and kept in a secure place by the principal or the principal’s designee until it is presented at the hearing. At the discretion of the principal, the items seized may be returned to the parent or guardian of a student, or if it has no significant value, the item may be destroyed, but only with the express written permission of the Director of Schools.
2. Any seized item may be turned over to any law enforcement officer. Any dangerous weapon or drug as defined in TCA 49-6-4202 shall be turned over to an appropriate law enforcement official.

Whenever the possibility of uncovering evidence of a criminal nature exists, the principal or his/her designee may request the assistance of a law enforcement officer to:
1. Search any areas of the school premises, any student, or any motor vehicle on the school premises; or
2. Identify or dispose of anything found in the course of a search conducted in accordance with this policy. The involvement of law enforcement officials is encouraged when there is reasonable cause to suspect that criminal evidence is about to be uncovered.

DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES- Back to Table of Contents-
The following levels of misbehavior and disciplinary procedures and options are
designed to protect all members of the educational community in the exercise of
their rights and duties.

MISBEHAVIOR LEVEL I
Minor misbehavior on the part of the student which impedes orderly classroom
procedures or interferes with the orderly operation of the school, but which can
usually be handled by an individual staff member.
EXAMPLES (not an exclusive listing)
Demonstrated lack of respect for school employees or any authorized individual
Demonstrated lack of respect for fellow students
Classroom disturbances
Classroom tardiness
Cheating and lying
Abusive language
Non-defiant failure to do assignments or carry out directions
Harassment (Sexual, Racial, Ethnic, Religious) See Board Policy STU 42

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
Immediate intervention
Determine what offense was committed and its severity
Determine offender and that he/she understands the nature of the offense
Employ appropriate disciplinary options
Record of the offense and disciplinary action maintained by staff member

DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS
Verbal reprimand
Special assignment
Restricting activities
Assigning work details
Counseling
Withdrawal of privileges
Issuance of demerits which might affect conduct grades
Strict supervision study
Detention
In-school suspension

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

EXAMPLES (not an exclusive listing)
Continuation of unmodified Level I behaviors
School or class tardiness
School or class truancy
Use of tobacco
Using forged notes or excuses
Disruptive classroom behavior
Harassment (Sexual, Racial, Ethnic, Religious) See Board Policy STU 42
Defiant failure to do assignments or carry out directions

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
Student is referred to principal for appropriate disciplinary action.
Principal meets with student and teacher.
Principal hears accusation made by teacher, permits student the opportunity of explaining his/her conduct, denying it, or explaining any mitigating circumstances.
Principal takes appropriate disciplinary action and notifies teacher of action.
A record of offense and disciplinary action is maintained by principal.

DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS
Teacher/schedule change
Modified probation
Behavior modification
Social probation
Peer counseling
Referral for Functional Behavior Assessment and development of a Behavior Intervention Plan
In-school suspension
Transfer
Detention
Suspension from school-sponsored activities or from riding school bus
Out-of-school suspension (not to exceed ten (10) days)
Citation—See Board Policy STU 23

MISBEHAVIOR Level III
Acts directly against persons or property but whose consequences do not seriously endanger the health or safety of others in the school.
EXAMPLES (not an exclusive listing):
Continuation of unmodified Level I and II behaviors
Fighting (simple)
Vandalism (minor)
Stealing
Threats to others
Harassment (Sexual, Racial, Ethnic, Religious) See Board Policy STU 42
Look-alike drugs
Look-alike weapons
Hazing

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
Student is referred to principal for appropriate action.
Principal meets with student and teacher.
Principal hears accusation by accusing party and permits offender the opportunity of explaining conduct.
Principal takes appropriate disciplinary action.
Principal may refer incident to Director of Schools and make recommendations for consequences. If student’s school assignment is to be changed, adequate notice shall be given to the student and his/her parents of the charges against him/her, his/ her right to appear at a hearing and to be represented by a person of his/her choosing.
Any change in school assignment is appealable to the Board.
A record of offense and disciplinary action is maintained by principal or Director of Schools.

DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS
In-school suspension
Detention
Restitution for loss, damage, or stolen property
Out-of-school suspension not to exceed ten (10) days
Social adjustment classes
Transfer
Expulsion
Referral for Functional Behavior Assessment and development of a Behavior Intervention Plan

MISBEHAVIOR Level IV
Acts which result in violence to another’s person or property or which pose a threat
to the safety of others in the school. These acts are so serious that they usually require administrative actions which result in the immediate removal of the student from the
school, the intervention of law enforcement authorities, and action by the Board.

EXAMPLES (not an exclusive listing)
Unmodified Level I, II and III behaviors
Death threat (hit list)
Extortion
Bomb threat
Possession/transfer of firearm*
Possession/use/transfer of dangerous weapons
Assault
Battery*
Vandalism
Theft/possession/sale of stolen property
Arson
Possession of unauthorized substances*
Use/transfer of unauthorized substances
Harassment (Sexual, Racial, Ethnic, Religious) See Board Policy STU 42
Hazing


DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
Principal confers with appropriate staff member(s) and with the student.
Principal hears accusation by accusing party and permits offender opportunity of explaining conduct.
Parents are notified.
Law enforcement officials are contacted.
Incident is reported and recommendations made to the Director of Schools.
Complete and accurate reports are submitted to the Director of Schools.
Student is given the right to request a hearing before Disciplinary Hearing Authority.

DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS
Out-of-school Suspension
Expulsion
Alternative schools
Other hearing authority or Board action which results in appropriate placement
Referral for Functional Behavior Assessment and development of a Behavior
Intervention Plan.
*Expulsion/remand for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year subject to
modification by the Director of Schools on a case-by-case basis.

ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES
1. A student shall not be suspended solely because charges are pending against
him/her in juvenile or other court.
2. A principal shall not impose multiple consecutive short-term suspensions that
cumulatively exceed ten (10) days for the same offense.
3. A teacher or other school official shall not reduce or authorize the reduction
of a student’s grade because of discipline problems except in conduct.
4. A student shall not be denied the passing of a course or grade promotion solely on the basis of absences.
5. A student shall not be denied the passing of a course or grade solely on the
basis of failure to:
a. pay any activity fee,
b. pay a library or other school fine, or
c. make restitution for lost or damaged school property.

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Board Policy STU 23- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
49-6-4001 through 49-6-4105; T.C.A. 49-6-4018
T.C.A. 49-6-3007(1)
BUS CONDUCT
In order to maintain conditions and an atmosphere suitable for safety, no person shall enter onto a school bus except students assigned to that bus or other persons with lawful and valid business on the bus.

The school bus is an extension of school activity; therefore, students shall conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with the established standards for safety and classroom behavior.
Students are under the supervision and control of the bus driver while on his/her bus, and all reasonable directions given by him/her shall be followed.

The principal of the student transported shall be informed by the bus driver of any serious discipline problem and may be called upon to assist if necessary. A student may be denied the privilege of riding the bus if the principal determines that his/her behavior is such as to cause disruption on the bus, or if he/she disobeys state or local rules and regulations pertaining to student transportation.

The suspension of a student from riding the school bus shall follow the same procedures as for any other school suspension.

Any student requesting to exit the bus at any point between school and the normal daily drop-off point must have written permission and the approval of the principal or principal designee. The principal or principal designee will provide written approval to the bus driver before the student is allowed to proceed.

Any student wishing to ride a bus other than his/her designated bus must have written parental permission and the approval of the principal or his/her designee.

Students who transfer from bus to bus while en route to and from school shall be expected to abide by the discipline policies adopted by the Board and rules adopted by the staff of the assigned school.

USE OF VIDEO CAMERAS
Video cameras may be used to monitor student behavior on school vehicles transporting students to and from school or extracurricular activities.
Video surveillance shall be used to promote the order, safety, and security of students, staff, and property.

RULES FOR BUS CONDUCT
Students shall conform to the following rules of bus behavior:
1. Students shall take seats promptly after boarding the bus. No seats can be reserved. Should the driver assign a student a seat, the student must comply. Students shall remain in their seats while the bus is in motion.
2. Students shall not open windows unless asked to do so by the driver.
3. Students must keep hands, arms, and head inside the bus.
4. Students shall not use alcohol, drugs, or tobacco in any form.
5. Students shall not throw objects on the bus or out the windows.
6. Students shall not distract the driver with loud talking, laughing, fighting, or unnecessary confusion.
7. Students shall not eat food, drink beverages, or chew gum.
8. Students shall not transport live animals or insects, even in cages or containers, for any reason. If it is necessary to bring these to school, parents should arrange to transport them.
9. Students shall not litter.
10. Students shall not transport items which may endanger the health or safety of any other passengers, such as glass, flower arrangements, or balloons/balloon bouquets. Aisles should be kept clear of books, bags, lunches, instruments, and school projects. Parents should make arrangements to transport items too large to be held on the student’s lap.
11. Students shall not transport weapons.
12. Students shall not use inappropriate language as follows: It is unacceptable to use language or gestures that are lewd, obscene, profane, or in general offensive and objectionable.
13. Students shall not be disobedient as follows: It is unacceptable to be defiant or refuse to obey and follow a legitimate request, command, rule, regulation, directive, or order.
14. Students shall not be disrespectful as follows: It is unacceptable to be discourteous, impolite, rude, insubordinate, or surly.
15. Students shall not be disruptive as follows: It is unacceptable to interrupt in any of its settings the orderly course of transportation affairs by any means, way, form, or fashion.
16. Students shall not be abusive or aggressive as follows: It is unacceptable to mistreat, misuse, hurt by treating badly, demean, insult, intimidate, extort, mock, jeer, ridicule, threaten, or use excessive force.
17. Students shall not damage school property.
18. Students should arrive at their bus stop ten minutes prior to their scheduled bus arrival time and students are not allowed to change location of authorized bus stops.
19. Students must stand well off the road and clear of the bus until it comes to a complete stop. Students should not run towards the bus.
20. Students must cross the road under the direction of the driver. Students must be careful in approaching bus stops--they must walk on left side, facing oncoming traffic; on exiting the bus, they should cross the road only after the driver has signaled that it is safe to do so.
21. No pens, pencils, markers, crayons, or sharp objects of any kind may be used while riding the bus to or from school.
22. Absolutely no perfumes or fingernail polish may be used while riding the school bus.

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Board Policy STU SS8- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T.C.A. 49-6-2008
TOBACCO-FREE SCHOOLS
All uses of tobacco and tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, are prohibited in all of the school system’s buildings. Smoking shall be prohibited in any public seating areas, including but not limited to, bleachers used for sporting events, or public restrooms.
The use of tobacco or tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, will be prohibited in all vehicles owned, leased, or operated by the system.
School system employees and students enrolled in the system’s schools will not be permitted to use tobacco or tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, while they are participants in any class or activity in which they represent the school system.
Any student who possesses tobacco products shall be issued a citation by the school principal/resource officer. The Director of Schools, in cooperation with the juvenile court and the local police/sheriff department, is responsible for developing procedures for issuance of the citations which shall include the form and content of citations and methods of handling completed citations.
Parents and students shall be notified of this citation requirement at the beginning of each school year.
Signs will be posted throughout the system’s facilities to notify students, employees, and all other persons visiting the school that the use of tobacco and tobacco products is forbidden. The following notice shall be prominently posted (including at each ticket booth) for elementary school sporting events: Smoking is prohibited by law in seating areas and in restrooms.

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Board Policy STU 35- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
Section 1042 of the Environmental Tobacco Smoke/Pro-Children Act of 1994
T.C.A. 39-17-1604(6)(10); T.C.A. 39-17-1605; T.C.A. 39-17-160
T.C.A 39-17-1505
DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS
In order to protect the rights of students, to safeguard the learning environment, and to contribute to a “Drug Free” community, the Director of Schools shall plan for dealing with alcohol and drugs which shall include the following:
1. Appropriate ways for handling alcohol/drug-related medical emergencies;
2. Guidelines for reporting alcohol/drug incidents and illegal activities; 3. Guidelines for referral of students who may have an alcohol/drug problem and/or are considered “high risk” to agencies and other sources for appropriate help; and
4. Effective working relationships with appropriate community agencies, such as alcohol/drug service providers, law enforcement agencies, and judicial officials.

Through the use of state guidelines, the Director of Schools shall be responsible for:
1. Developing and implementing the appropriate curriculum of alcohol and drug
education for students;
2, Providing adequate information and training for all staff personnel as appropriate
to their responsibilities;
3. Implementing the relevant portions of the Drug-Free Youth Act;
4. Developing administrative rules and guidelines for the school system to
effectively respond to alcohol and drug situations that may occur at school or
school-sponsored events; and
5. Providing notification to parents and students that compliance with this policy
is mandatory.
Students will not consume, possess, distribute, or be under the influence of illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages or possess drug paraphernalia in school buildings or on school grounds, in school vehicles or buses, or at any school-sponsored activity at any time whether on or off school grounds. This includes but is not limited to abuse of inhalants
and prescription drugs.
Swift, certain, and severe disciplinary sanctions will be imposed on students who violate standards of conduct required by this policy. Such sanctions will be consistent with local, state, and federal laws, up to and including suspension/expulsion as well as referral for prosecution. Completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program may also be recommended.
Information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation programs will be made available through the school counselor.

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Board Policy STU 34- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
1. TRRMS 0520-1-3-.08(2)(d)
2. 20 USCA 7116; 34 CFR 86.200
3. T.C.A. 39-17-417; T.C.A. 39-17-715
4. T.C.A. 49-6-4209; T.C.A. 49-6-3401
WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS
Students shall not possess, handle, transmit, use, or attempt to use any dangerous weapon in school buildings or on school grounds at any time, or in school vehicles and /or buses, or off the school grounds at a school-sponsored activity, function, or event.
Dangerous weapons for the purposes of this policy shall include, but are not limited to “...any firearm, explosive, weapon, bowie knife, hawk bill knife, ice pick, dagger, slingshot, switchblade knife, blackjack, knuckles...”.
Violators of this section shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion from school.

NOTIFICATION
When it is determined that a student has violated this policy, the principal of the school shall notify the student’s parent or guardian and the juvenile justice system as required by law.

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Board Policy STU 36- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T.C.A. 39-17-1309
CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
Corporal punishment shall not be used as a disciplinary measure in any school.
The use of reasonable physical force will not be considered corporal punishment in
the following situations:
1. For the purpose of self-defense;
2. To protect other persons from physical injury;
3. To protect property of the school or others; or
4. To remove a student if the student refuses to comply with requests to refrain from disruptive behavior.
When physical force is used, the teacher and principal shall file a written report with the Director of Schools immediately. The report shall contain all relevant details of the incident and will be kept on file and made available to the parents upon request. The parent may request a conference to discuss the incident with the student, teacher, and administrator (principal, assistant principal, principal designee) involved.
The Director of Schools shall be responsible for developing and implementing in-service training programs for teachers and staff in the use of positive measures of discipline.

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Board Policy STU 27- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T.C.A. 10-7-504(b)
SUSPENSION/EXPULSION/REMAND

DEFINITIONS
Suspension: dismissed from attendance at school for any reason for not more than ten (10) consecutive school days. Multiple suspensions shall not run consecutively nor shall multiple suspensions be applied to avoid expulsion from school.

Expulsion: removal from attendance for more than ten (10) consecutive days or more than fifteen (15) days in a month of school attendance. Multiple suspensions that occur consecutively shall constitute expulsion.

Remand: assignment to an alternative school.

REASONS FOR SUSPENSION/EXPULSION
Any principal or assistant principal (herein called principal) may suspend/expel any student from attendance at school; or, any school-related activity on or off campus or from attendance at a specific class or classes or from riding a school bus without suspending such student from attendance at school (in-school suspension). Any such suspension shall be for good and sufficient reasons including, but not limited to:
1. Willful and persistent violation of the rules of the school or truancy;
2. Immoral or disreputable conduct, including vulgar or profane language;
3. Violence or threatened violence against the person of any personnel attending or assigned to any school;
4. Willful or malicious damage to real or personal property of the school, or the property of any person attending or assigned to the school;
5. Inciting, advising, or counseling of others to engage in any of the acts herein enumerated;
6. Possession of a pistol, gun, or firearm on school property;
7. Possession of a knife, etc., as defined in T.CA .39-6-1701, on school property; 8. Assaulting a principal or teacher with vulgar, obscene, or threatening language; 9. Unlawful use or possession of barbital or legend drugs, as defined in T.C.A. 53-10-101;
10. Engaging in behavior which disrupts a class or school-sponsored activity;
11. Off-campus criminal behavior resulting in felony charges when behavior poses a danger to persons or property or disrupts the educational process;
12. Any other conduct prejudicial to good order or discipline in any school.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION
1. Students given an in-school suspension in excess of one (1) day from classes shall attend either special classes attended only by students guilty of misconduct or be placed in an isolated area appropriate for study; and

2. Personnel responsible for in-school suspension will see that each student is supervised at all times and has textbooks and class work assignments from his/her regular teachers. Students given in-school suspension shall be required to com- plete academic assignments and shall receive credit for work completed.

1. Unless the student’s continued presence in the school, class, or school-related activity presents an immediate danger to the student or other persons or property, no principal shall suspend/expel any student until that student has been advised of the nature of his/her misconduct, questioned about it, and allowed to give an explanation.

2. Upon suspension/expulsion of any student (including in-school suspension in excess of one (1) day), the principal shall make an immediate attempt to contact the parent or guardian to inform them of the suspension/expulsion. The student shall not be sent home before the end of the school day unless the parent or guardian has been contacted and arrangements have been made.

3. The principal shall notify the parent or guardian and the Director of Schools or designee in writing of:

a. The suspension/expulsion and the cause for it; and
b. A request for a meeting with the parent or guardian, student and principal, to be held as soon as possible, but no later than five (5) days following the suspension/expulsion.

4. If at the time of the suspension, the principal determines that an offense has been committed which, in the judgment of the principal, would justify a suspension/ expulsion for more than ten (10) days, he/she may suspend/expel/remand the student unconditionally for a specified period of time or upon such terms and conditions as the principal deems reasonable.

5. Immediately following the scheduled meeting, whether or not attended by the parent or guardian or student, the principal shall determine the length of the suspen- sion/expulsion and set conditions for readmission. If the principal determines the length of the suspension to be between six (6) and the maximum of ten (10) days, the principal shall develop and implement a plan for correcting the behavior when the student returns to school.

6. The principal shall immediately give written or actual notice to the parent or guardian and the student of the right to appeal the decision to suspend/expel/ remand for more than ten (10) days. All appeals must be filed, orally or in writing, within five (5) days after receipt of the notice and may be filed by the parent or guardian, the student, or any person holding a teaching license who is employed by the school system if requested by the student.

7. The appeal from this decision shall be to the Board or to a Disciplinary Hearing Authority appointed by the Board.

8. If the suspension/expulsion occurs during the last ten (10) days of any term or semester, the student shall be permitted to take such final examinations or submit such required work as necessary to complete the course of instruction for that semester, subject to conditions prescribed by the principal.

SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS
Those students falling under the purview of IDEA will be disciplined in accordance
with federal and state regulations for IDEA students.

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Board Policy STU 25- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
T.C.A. 49-6-3007(g)
T.C.A. 49-2-203(a)(8); TCA 49-6-3401(a)
T.C.A. 49-6-4216; TCA 39-17-1309; TCA 39-17-417
T.C.A. 49-6-3401(b)(1)
T.C.A. 49-6-3491(4)-(6); Goss v. Lopez, 419 U.S. 565 (Ohio, 1975);
Individuals with Disabilities Act Amendments of 1997 615
ZERO TOLERANCE OFFENSES
In order to ensure safe and secure learning environments free of drugs, violence, and firearms, it is necessary to impose swift, certain, and severe disciplinary sanctions on any student who violates certain standards regarding drugs and violence.

The following offenses will not be tolerated:

FIREARMS (as defined in 18 U.S.C. 921)
In accordance with state law, any student who brings or possesses a firearm on school property shall be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. The Director of Schools shall have the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis.

DRUGS
In accordance with state law, any student who unlawfully possesses any drug, including any controlled substance or legend drug, shall be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. The Director of Schools shall have the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis.

BATTERY

NOTIFICATION
When it is determined that a student has violated this policy, the principal of the school
shall notify the student’s parent or guardian and the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system as required by law.

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Board Policy STU 38- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
18 U.S.C. 921
20 U.S.C. 8921; T.C.A. 49-6-4216(b); T.C.A. 49-6-3401(g)
T.C.A. 49-6-3401(g); T.C.A. 49-6-4216(b)
T.C.A. 49-6-4209; T.C.A. 39-17-1312
REPORTING STUDENT OFFENSES TO LAW ENFORCEMENT
Any school system employee observing or otherwise having knowledge of an assault and battery or vandalism endangering life, health, or safety committed by a student on school property shall report such actions immediately to the principal of such school. Every principal having direct knowledge of an assault and battery or vandalism endangering life, health, or safety committed by a student on school property or receiving a report of such action shall report such action immediately to the Murfreesboro Police Department. Provided, however, any fight not involving the use of a weapon as defined in T.C.A. 39-17-1309 or any fight not resulting in serious personal injury to the parties involved may be reported only to the school administrator.

The report made to the law enforcement agency shall include, if known, the name and address of the offender and the name and address of the victim, if any. The report shall also contain a description of the action and whatever additional information is requested by the law enforcement agency.

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Board Policy STU 29- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T.C.A. 49-6-4301
STUDENT DISCIPLINARY HEARING AUTHORITY
A Disciplinary Hearing Authority (DHA) will conduct hearings for students who have been suspended, expelled, or remanded for more than ten (10) school days. The Board shall appoint members of the DHA which shall consist of no more than seven (7) members (maximum number must not exceed total membership of Board), at least two (2) of whom shall be licensed employees of the Board. DHA members shall be subject to reappointment. The chair of the DHA should have received appropriate state training. Board members shall not serve on the DHA.

The Director of Schools shall appoint a chairman of the DHA from the members
appointed by the Board. The chairman shall perform the following duties:
1. Identify the members of the DHA assigned to hear each individual case;
2. Prepare and disseminate the minutes of each meeting;
3. Set the time, place, and date for each hearing;
4. Notify appropriate persons of each meeting within forty-eight (48) hours of receiving notification of the suspension/expulsion; and
5. Sign and maintain a copy of the minutes of each meeting.

Each hearing shall be conducted by at least three (3) members of the DHA, one of which must be a licensed employee of the Board. The hearing must be held; a decision must be rendered; and notification of the decision must be provided to the parents and/or student and the principal no later than ten (10) days after the beginning of the suspension/expulsion. Notification of the decision shall include a statement of the right of either party within five (5) days after receiving the decision to request a review by the Board.
The DHA may take the following disciplinary actions:
1. Affirm the decision of the school principal;
2. Order removal of the suspension/expulsion unconditionally;
3. Order removal of the suspension/expulsion upon such terms and conditions as it deems reasonable;
4. Remand the student to alternative placement;
5. Suspend/Expel/Remand the student for a specified period of time.*

If a review of the hearing is requested by either the student or principal, the Board shall either review the record or grant a second hearing.

If the Board chooses to review the record, it shall:
1. Affirm the decision of the hearing authority; or
2. Modify the decision to a lesser penalty*; or
3. Grant a hearing before the Board.
*Note: Zero-tolerance offenses set forth in statute (firearms, drug possession, and battery upon a school employee) require mandatory calendar year expulsion or assignment to alternative placement for a calendar year unless modified by the Director of Schools.

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Board Policy STU 24- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T.C.A. 49-6-3401(c)(4)
DISPOSAL OF CONTRABAND
Any dangerous weapon or drug located by the principal or other school system employee shall be turned over to the appropriate law enforcement agency for proper disposal. (Acts 1981, ch. 368 & 2)

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Board Policy STU 39- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T..CA. 49-6-4210
ADMISSION OF SUSPENDED OR EXPELLED STUDENTS
The Board may deny admission of any student (except those in state custody) who has been expelled or suspended from another school system in Tennessee or another state even though the student has established residency in the system in which she/he seeks enrollment.

After a request for enrollment is made, the Director of Schools shall investigate the facts surrounding the suspension/expulsion from the former school system and make a recommendation to the Board to approve or deny the request.

The Board shall not deny enrollment beyond the length of the imposed suspension/expulsion. If the action of the Board is to deny admission, the Director of Schools shall, on behalf of the Board of Education, notify the Commissioner of Education of the decision.

Any school system that accepts enrollment of a student from another school system may dismiss the student if it is determined subsequent to the enrollment that the student has been suspended or expelled from the former school system.

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Board Policy STU 8- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T.C.A. 49-6-3401(f); 20 U.S.C.A. 1232B(b)(4)(h)
GANG ACTIVITY OR ASSOCIATION
Gangs which initiate, advocate, or promote activities which threaten the safety or well-being of persons or property on school grounds or which disrupt the school environment are harmful to the educational process. The use of hand signals, graffiti, or the presence of any apparel, jewelry, accessory, or manner of grooming which by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark, symbol, or any other attribute which indicates or implies membership or affiliation with such a group presents a clear and present danger. This is contrary to the school environment and educational objectives and creates an atmosphere where unlawful acts or violations of school regulations may occur.

Incidents involving initiations, hazing, intimidations, and/or related activities of such group affiliations which are likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm to students are prohibited.

The Director of Schools will establish procedures and regulations to ensure that any student wearing, carrying, or displaying gang paraphernalia, or exhibiting behavior or gestures which symbolize gang membership, or causing and/or practicing in activities which intimidate or affect the attendance of another student shall be subject to disciplinary action.

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Board Policy STU 40- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T.C.A. 49-6-4215
USE OF PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES IN SCHOOL
Students shall not possess or use personal communication devices, such as pagers and cellular phones, while on school property or while attending a school-sponsored activity on or off school property unless pre-approved by the school principal.

A “personal communication device” is a device that emits an audible signal, vibrates a message, or otherwise summons or delivers a communication to the possessor.
A person who discovers a student in possession of a personal communication device shall report the violation to the principal. The device will be confiscated and will be returned only to the parent/guardian of the student.

Students who possess a personal communication device are in violation of this policy and school rules and are subject to the related disciplinary action.

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Board Policy STU 43- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T.C.A. 49-6-4214
DISCRIMINATION/ HARASSMENT OF STUDENTS
(SEXUAL, RACIAL, ETHNIC, RELIGIOUS)
Students shall be provided a learning environment free from sexual, racial, ethnic, and religious discrimination/harassment. It shall be a violation of this policy for anyone to discriminate against or harass a student through conduct or communication that is sexual, racial, ethnic, or religious in nature.

Student discrimination/harassment will not be tolerated. Discrimination/harassment is defined as conduct, gestures or words (either written or spoken) of a sexual, racial, ethnic or religious nature which:
1. Unreasonably interfere with the student’s work or educational opportunities; or
2. Create an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning environment; or
3. Imply that submission to such conduct is made an explicit or implicit term of receiving grades or credit; or
4. Imply that submission to or rejection of such conduct will be used as a basis for determining the student’s grades and/or participation in a student activity.

Students who believe themselves to be victims of sexual, racial, ethnic or religious discrimination/harassment shall report these incidents immediately to a teacher, counselor or building administrator. Witnesses to discrimination/harassment are strongly encouraged to report these incidents immediately. Allegations of discrimination/harassment shall be fully investigated by a student complaint manager.

The privacy and anonymity of all parties and witnesses to complaints will be respected. However, because an individual’s need for confidentiality must be balanced with obligations to cooperate with police investigations and legal proceedings, to provide due process to the accused, to conduct a thorough investigation or to take necessary action to resolve a complaint, the identity of parties and witnesses may be disclosed in appropriate circumstances to individuals with a need to know.

A substantiated charge against an employee shall result in disciplinary action up to and including termination. A substantiated charge against a student may result in corrective or disciplinary action up to and including suspension.

There will be no retaliation against any person who reports harassment or participates in an investigation. However, anyone who refuses to cooperate or gives false information during the course of any investigation may be subject to disciplinary action. The willful filing of a false report will itself be considered harassment and will be treated as such.
An employee disciplined for violation of this policy may appeal the decision by contacting the Federal Rights Coordinator or the Director of Schools. Any student disciplined for violation of this policy may appeal the decision in accordance with disciplinary policies and procedures.

DISCRIMINATION/ HARASSMENT OF STUDENTS
(SEXUAL, RACIAL, ETHNIC, RELIGIOUS)
Students shall be provided a learning environment free from sexual, racial, ethnic, and religious discrimination/harassment. It shall be a violation of this policy for anyone to discriminate against or harass a student through conduct or communication that is sexual, racial, ethnic, or religious in nature.
Student discrimination/harassment will not be tolerated. Discrimination/harassment is defined as conduct, gestures or words (either written or spoken) of a sexual, racial, ethnic or religious nature which:
1. Unreasonably interfere with the student’s work or educational opportunities; or
2. Create an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning environment; or
3. Imply that submission to such conduct is made an explicit or implicit term of receiving grades or credit; or
4. Imply that submission to or rejection of such conduct will be used as a basis for determining the student’s grades and/or participation in a student activity.

Students who believe themselves to be victims of sexual, racial, ethnic or religious discrimination/harassment shall report these incidents immediately to a teacher, counselor or building administrator. Witnesses to discrimination/harassment are strongly encouraged to report these incidents immediately. Allegations of discrimination/harassment shall be fully investigated by a student complaint manager.

The privacy and anonymity of all parties and witnesses to complaints will be respected. However, because an individual’s need for confidentiality must be balanced with obligations to cooperate with police investigations and legal proceedings, to provide due process to the accused, to conduct a thorough investigation or to take necessary action to resolve a complaint, the identity of parties and witnesses may be disclosed in appropriate circumstances to individuals with a need to know.

A substantiated charge against an employee shall result in disciplinary action up to and including termination. A substantiated charge against a student may result in corrective or disciplinary action up to and including suspension.

There will be no retaliation against any person who reports harassment or participates in an investigation. However, anyone who refuses to cooperate or gives false information during the course of any investigation may be subject to disciplinary action. The willful filing of a false report will itself be considered harassment and will be treated as such.

An employee disciplined for violation of this policy may appeal the decision by contacting the Federal Rights Coordinator or the Director of Schools. Any student disciplined for violation of this policy may appeal the decision in accordance with disciplinary policies and procedures.

This policy shall be published in the parent/student handbook distributed annually to every student. Building administrators are responsible for educating and training their respective staff and students as to the definition and recognition of discrimination/harassment.

Title VII: 29 CFR 1604.11
Title IX (20 U.S.C. 1681-1686)
DISCRIMINATION/HARASSMENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
1. FILING A COMPLIANT
Any student of this school system who wishes to file a discrimination/harassment grievance against another student or an employee of the system may file a written or oral
(recorded, if possible) complaint with a student complaint manager. Students may also report an allegation of discrimination/harassment to any teacher or other adult employed in the school who shall inform a student complaint manager of the allegation. The complaint should include the following information:
A. Identity of the alleged victim and person accused;
B. Location, date, time and circumstances surrounding the alleged incident; C. Description of what happened;
D. Identity of witnesses; and
E. Any other evidence available.

2. INVESTIGATION
Within twenty-four hours of receiving the student’s complaint, the student complaint manager shall notify the complaining student’s parent/guardian and the principal who shall inform the Director of Schools. The parent/guardian shall be given notice of the right to attend an interview of the student in a non-intimidating environment in order to elicit full disclosure of the student’s allegations. This interview shall take place within five (5) work days from the time the complaint was first made. If no parent/guardian attends the interview, another adult, mutually agreed upon by the student and the student complaint manager, shall attend and may serve as the student’s advocate. After a complete investigation, if the allegations are substantiated, immediate and appropriate corrective or disciplinary action shall be initiated. The complaint and identity of the complainant will not be disclosed except (1) as required by law or this policy, or (2) as necessary to investigate the complaint, or (3) as authorized by the complainant. A school representative will meet with and advise the complainant regarding the findings,
and whether corrective measures and/or disciplinary action were taken. The investigation and response to the complaint will be completed within thirty (30) school days. Copies of the report will be sent to the student, principal, Federal Rights Coordinator
and Director of Schools. One copy shall be kept in the student complaint manager’s file for one (1) year beyond the student’s eighteenth (18th) birthday. The Director of Schools shall keep the Board informed of all complaints.

3. DECISION AND APPEAL
If the complainant is not in agreement with the findings of fact as reported by the student complaint manager, an appeal may be made, within five (5) work days, to the Director of Schools. The Director of Schools will review the investigation, make any corrective action deemed necessary and provide a written response to the complainant. If the complainant is not in agreement with the Director of Schools’ findings of fact, a written appeal may be made to the Board of Education within five (5) work days. The Board shall within thirty (30) days from the date the appeal was received, review the investigation and the actions of the Director of Schools and may support, amend or overturn the actions based upon review and report their decision in writing to the complainant. This complaint procedure shall not be construed to create an independent right to a Board hearing.

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Title IX, Education Amendment of 1972, 20 U.S.C. 1681, et seq.
APPOINTING COMPLAINT MANAGERS
The Director of Schools shall appoint at least two student complaint managers, one of each gender for each school. The Federal Rights Coordinator may serve as a student complaint manager. The Director of Schools shall identify the names, addresses and telephone numbers of current managers who are responsible for coordinating the system’s compliance efforts.
This policy shall be published in the parent/student handbook distributed annually to every student. Building administrators are responsible for educating and training their respective staff and students as to the definition and recognition of discrimination/harassment.

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Board Policy STU 42- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
Title IX, Education Amendment of 1972,
20 U.S.C. 1681, et seq.
Title VII; 29 CFR 1604.11
COMPLAINT PROCEDURE
NO COMPLAINT SHALL BE PROCESSED UNTIL THE COMPLAINTANT HAS MET AND DISCUSSED THE CONCERN WITH THE SPECIFIED EMPLOYEE PRIOR TO FILING A COMPLAINT UNDER THIS PROCEDURE. Please be able to document the date and time of such informal discussion. No appeal of a determination shall be allowed unless the appeal is timely filed as provided for herein.

STEP 1
General Complaint Procedure
The Complaint Form must be completed, signed, and given to the employee’s immediate supervisor. The content of the complaint shall not be expanded after the initial written filing. The employee and immediate supervisor shall schedule a meeting with the complainant. The employee shall be given at least two days notice in advance of the meeting if it is to be held after school. The two day notice of the conference may be waived at the option of the employee. Upon conclusion of the meeting, a written determination to the complaint will be made by the immediate supervisor and be provided to the employee and the complainant. The employee may also file a written response, but shall not be required to unless directed to do so by the immediate supervisor.
Complaints Against Principals and Administrative Level Personnel
As the general provisions of this procedure are not feasible with regard to complaints against principals and administrative level positions, the provisions of this subsection shall control to the extent they conflict with other provisions of this agreement. In regards to principals and all administrative level personnel positions, the Complaint Form shall be completed, signed, and filed with the Director of Schools, The content of the complaint shall not be expanded after it is filed. The Director of Schools may investigate the complaint directly or appoint a designee to investigate the complaint. The Director of Schools or his/her designee shall notify the principal or administrator against whom the complaint is filed prior to making a determination in regards to the complaint. The Director of Schools or his/her designee shall make due inquiry and investigate the complaint, and its merits or lack thereof. The Director of Schools or his/her designee shall not be required to meet with the parties prior to making a determination, but may do so if he/she chooses. The Director of Schools or his/her designee shall provide the parties a written copy of his/her determination in regard to the complaint. In the event the Director of schools appointed a designee
to investigate the complaint, either party may request an appeal to Step Three (3) within ten (10) days of the issuance of the determination hereunder. If the complainant or employee is not satisfied with the Director of Schools’ written response and the Director of Schools has directly handled the matter, either may request an appeal of the matter within ten (10) days of the issuance of the determination pursuant to Step Four (4) provided herein.STEP 2
If the complaint is not resolved in Step 1 and the complainant or employee wishes to appeal the matter, he/she must forward a written request for appeal and the complainant form, along with the written determination at Step 1, to the appropriate administrator at the Central Office within ten (10) days of the issuance of the Step 1 determination. The administrator reviewing the complaint shall notify the opposing party of the appeal prior to making a determination thereon. If necessary, the Central Office Administrator may conduct the investigation and make a determination without meeting with the parties. A copy of the complaint form along with the written decision will be sent to the complainant and employee.
STEP 3
If the complaint cannot be resolved at Step 2 and the complainant or employee wishes to appeal the matter further, he/she shall make a written request to appeal the Step 2 decision to the Director of Schools within ten (10) days of the issuance of the Step 2 determination. The Director of Schools’ office shall notify the opposing party of the appeal of the complaint before making a determination thereof. The Director of Schools may render a decision without meeting with the parties. A written decision will be sent to the complainant and the employee.
STEP 4
If the complainant or employee is not satisfied with the response at Step 3 and wishes to appeal the matter further, the complainant or employee may request the complaint be forwarded to the Murfreesboro City Board of Education (the “Board”). A written request to appeal the matter to the Board must be provided to the Director of Schools within ten (10) days of the issuance of Step 3 determination. The School Board Attorney and the employee at issue shall be notified and no action shall be taken without the School Board Attorney’s recommendation to the Board Chairperson at least ten (10) days prior to the next regular board meeting following the date the School Board Attorney’s recommendation is made. The Executive Committee of the Board shall then make their determination about whether to grant the request and, if granted, shall schedule a date. The Board of Education shall not be required to hear the appeal, but if it so chooses, will only hear those complaints that have been carried through the procedures set forth herein. In the event no action is taken by the Board in regards to the complaint at the next regular Board meeting following receipt of the request for appeal and the School Board Attorney’s recommendation ten (10) days prior to the meeting, the request to appeal to the Board shall be deemed denied and the determination at Step 3 shall stand.
Appropriate forms for filing may be obtained from the Instructional Assistant.

Board Policy STU 42- Back to Table of Contents-
INTERNET ACCESS BY STUDENTS
(Regular & Extended Time)
The Board supports the right of students (regular or extended school students) to have reasonable access to various information formats and believes it incumbent upon students to use this privilege in an appropriate and responsible manner.
Telecommunications, electronic information sources, and networked services significantly alter the information landscape for schools by opening classrooms to a broader array of resources. In the past, instructional and library media materials could usually be screened prior to use by committees of educators and community members intent upon subjecting all such materials to reasonable selection criteria. Because telecommunications may lead to any publicly available fileserver in the world, it will open classrooms to electronic information resources which have not been screened by educators for use by students.
Electronic information research skills are now fundamental to preparation of citizens and future employees. The Board expects staff to blend thoughtful use of such information throughout the curriculum and to provide guidance and instruction to students in the appropriate use of such resources.
Students are responsible for appropriate behavior when using school computer networks just as they are responsible for appropriate behavior in all school settings. Communications on the network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply to all users of the networked communications system. The network is provided for students to conduct research, explore the world, and communicate with others. Access to network services will be provided to students who agree to act in a responsible manner.
Independent student use of telecommunications and electronic information resources will be permitted upon submission of permission forms and agreement forms by parents of minor students (under 18 years of age).
Access to telecommunications will enable students to explore thousands of libraries, databases, and bulletin boards while exchanging messages with people throughout the world. The Board believes that the benefits to students from access in the form of information resources and opportunities for collaboration exceed the disadvantages. Ultimately, however, parents and guardians of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards that their children should follow when using media and information sources. The Murfreesboro City School Board supports and respects each family’s right to decide whether or not to apply for independent access.
1. PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
In order to match electronic resources as closely as possible to the approved curriculum, personnel will review and evaluate resources in order to offer “home pages” and menus of materials which are instructionally sound. In this manner, staff will provide developmentally appropriate guidance to students as they make use of telecommunications and electronic information resources to conduct research and other studies related to the curriculum. All students will be informed by staff of their rights and responsibilities as users of the network prior to gaining access to that network, either as an individual user or as a member of a class or group. As much as possible, access to information resources will be designed in ways that point students to sources which have been reviewed and evaluated prior to use. While students may be able to move beyond those resources to others which have not been evaluated by staff, they shall be provided with guidelines and lists of resources particularly suited to the learning objectives. Students may pursue electronic research independent of staff supervision only if they have been granted parental permission and have submitted all required forms. Permission is not transferable and may not be shared.
2. INTERNET RULES
Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on school computer networks just as they are responsible for appropriate behavior in any school setting. Communications on the network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communications apply. The network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Independent access to network services is provided to students who agree to act in a responsible manner. Parent permission is required for minors. Access is a privilege, not a right. Access entails responsibility. Individual users of the computer networks are responsible for their behavior and communications over these networks. It is presumed that users will comply with school system standards and will honor the agreements they have signed. Network storage may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators, school site administrators, and teachers may review files, bookmarks and communications to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on servers will always be private.
During school, teachers of all students will guide them toward appropriate materials. The principal of the school will be responsible for determining the best instructional approach to insure proper guidance of the students as they seek information found on the Internet. Outside school, families bear responsibility for such guidance as they must also exercise with information sources such as television, telephones, movies, radio, and other potentially offensive media. Any failure to follow appropriate guidelines will result in loss of access in the classroom and may result in loss of access for the school.

The following are not permitted:
•Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures
•Using obscene language
•Harassing, insulting or attacking others
•Damaging computers, computer systems, or computer networks
•Violating copyright laws
•Using others’ passwords
•Trespassing in others’ folders, work or files
•Intentionally wasting limited resources
•Employing the network for commercial purposes
•Any action which violates existing Board Policy or Public Law
3. SANCTIONS
Additional disciplinary action may be determined at the building level in line with existing practice regarding inappropriate language or behavior. Violations may result in loss of access. When applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved.

AGREEMENT/PARENTAL PERMISSION
The Murfreesboro City Schools Internet Access Student Permission Form shall be completed, signed by student and parent, and placed on file with the school prior to student’s access to the district computer network.

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Board Policy STU 37- Back to Table of Contents-
Administrative Directive 44
CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Students shall help maintain the school environment, preserve school property, and exercise care while using school facilities.
All system employees shall report all damage or loss of school property to the principal
or designee immediately after such damage or loss is discovered. The principal or designee shall make a full and complete investigation of any instance of damage or loss of school property. The investigation shall be carried out in cooperation with law enforcement officials when appropriate.
School property is defined as buildings, buses, books, equipment, records, instructional materials, or any other item under the jurisdiction of the Board.
When the person causing damage or loss has been identified and the costs of repair or replacement have been determined, the Director of Schools, in conjunction with the city’s Risk Manager depending on the type of loss, shall take steps to recover these costs. This may include recommending the filing of a civil complaint in court to recover damages. If the responsible person is a minor, recovery will be sought from the minor’s parent or guardian.
In addition, the system may withhold the grades, diploma, and/or transcript of the student responsible for vandalism or theft or otherwise incurring any debt to a school until the student or the student’s parent/guardian has paid for the damages. When the minor and parent are unable to pay for the damages, the system shall provide a program of voluntary work for the minor. Upon completion of the work, the student’s grades, diploma, and/or transcripts shall be released. Such sanctions shall not be imposed if the student is not at fault.

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Board Policy STU 44- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T.C.A. 37-10-101 through 103
DRESS CODE
Students shall dress and groom in a clean, neat, and modest manner so as not to distract or interfere with the operation of the school.
More specific guidelines for each school may be developed by a principal subject to approval by the Director of Schools.
When a student is attired in a manner which is likely to cause disruption or interference with the operation of the school or violates a specific rule, the principal or principal’s designee shall take appropriate action, which may include discipline.

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Board Policy STU 26- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal Reference:
T.C.A. 49-6-4215; T.C.A. 49-1-302(2)(j)
ATTENDANCE
Attendance is a key factor in student achievement; therefore, students are expected to be present each day school is in session.
The school system’s supervisor responsible for attendance shall oversee the entire attendance program which shall include:
1. All accounting and reporting procedures and their dissemination; and
2. Ensuring that all school-age children attend school.
Absences shall be classified as either excused or unexcused as determined by the principal or his/her designee. Excused absences shall include:
1. Personal illness;
2. Illness of immediate family member;
3. Death in the family;
4. Extreme weather conditions;
5. Religious observances; or
6. Circumstances which in the judgment of the principal create emergencies over which the student has no control.

The principal shall be responsible for ensuring that:
1. Attendance is checked and reported daily for each class;
2. Daily absentee sheets contain sign in/sign out sheets and indicate students present or absent for the majority of the day;
3. All student absences are verified;
4. Written excuses are submitted for absences and tardiness; and
5. System-wide procedures for accounting and reporting are followed.
Truancy is defined as an absence for an entire school day, a major portion of the school day, or the major portion of any class, study hall, or activity during the school day for which the student is scheduled. The Director of Schools shall be responsible for developing and enforcing a policy on truancy.
The Board shall determine annually and include in the school calendar a plan for using three (3) abbreviated school days and the procedures for making up missed instructional days. In addition, the Board shall determine annually whether to use flexible scheduling for kindergarten students.
Students participating in school-sponsored activities, whether on- or off-campus, shall not be counted absent. In order to qualify as “school-sponsored,” the activity must be school-planned, school-directed, and teacher-supervised. Mass exodus or early dismissal or late arrival of all students or any segment of students shall not be permitted for any reason except for emergencies such as inclement weather or other unavoidable situations unless instruction time is made up in full.
Student attendance records shall be given the same level of confidentiality as other student records. Only authorized school officials with legitimate educational purposes may have access to student information without the consent of the student or parent/guardian.
LICE
Children who are infested with lice may not attend school. If a student has been identified with lice, treatment for lice and removal of nits are required before the student may return to school. A student shall be lice and nit free and readmitted to school no later than two (2) days following dismissal for the problem. Students who are absent in excess of the allowable period shall be considered truant.

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Board Policy STU 9- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
TRR/MS 0520-1-3-.08(1)(a)
TRR/MS 0520-1-3-.03(15); TCA 49-6-2904
Attendance Accounting Procedural Manual,
Minimum Standards and Guidelines, State Department of Education
TCA 10-7-504; 20 U.S.C. 1232g
Administrative Directive 70
TRUANCY
In an effort to keep children in school and reduce juvenile crime and victimization,
the following procedure is being implemented in partnership with the Murfreesboro
Police Department and the Juvenile Court, as it pertains to the delivery of unlawful
absentee notices, T.C.A. 49-6-3007, Attendance and Truancy Reports, and T.C.A.
49-6-3009, Penalty for Violators.
STEP 1:
Teachers will monitor and document attendance.
STEP 2:
The attendance clerk will provide an attendance printout to the principal when five
(5) days of unexcused absences have occurred.
STEP 3:
After consultation with the teacher, the principal may fax this information, using
the Written Notice of Unlawful Absences to the Criminal Investigating Office at
the Police Department, with a copy sent to the Associate Director for Instruction
and Professional Development.
STEP 4:
The notice will be hand-delivered by an officer to the parent/guardian. They will
notify the parent that they must contact the school principal.
STEP 5:
Absences will be monitored and lack of improvement in attendance will be reported
to the Murfreesboro Police Department on a notice designated as a “Second Request.”
STEP 6:
If the problem persists, a petition will be filed by the principal. Upon issuance of
such warrant, the third request will be faxed to the Police Department indicating that
the warrant is ready to be served to the parent/guardian.
This procedure is considered a pro-active approach on truancy violations. When
children are in school, they can be taught, and they will be less likely to become
involved in criminal activity or to become victims of crime.
Administrative Directive 79

STUDENT RECORDS- Back to Table of Contents-
A cumulative record shall be kept for each student enrolled in school. The folder shall contain a health record, attendance record, and scholarship record; shall be kept current; and shall accompany the student through his/her school career.
The name used on the record of the student entering the school system must be the same as that shown on the birth certificate unless evidence is presented that such name has been legally changed. If the parent does not have or cannot obtain a birth certificate, then the name used on the records of such student will be as shown on documents which are acceptable to the system as proof of date of birth.
The name used on the records of a student entering the system from another school must be the same as that shown on records from the school previously attended unless evidence is presented that such name has been legally changed as prescribed by law.
Attendance records kept on each student become permanent property of the school system.
Student records shall be confidential. Only authorized school officials may have access to student information for legitimate purposes without the consent of the student or parent/guardian.
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Board Policy STU 13- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
TRR/MS 0520-1-3-.03(12)(a)
T.C.A. 10-7-504(4); U.S.C.A. 20-123g
STUDENT RECORDS:
INSPECTION& CORRECTION PROCEDURE
INSPECTION PROCEDURE
Parent(s) of students and eligible students* may inspect and review the student’s educational records upon written request.
Parent(s) or eligible students shall submit to the records custodian a request which identifies, as precisely as possible, the record(s) that he/she wished to inspect, and the records custodian will contact the same to discuss how access will best be arranged as promptly and practicable as possible. This inspection procedure must be completed within 45 days from the receipt of the request.
The right to inspect and review educational records includes the right to response from school officials concerning requests for explanation and interpretation of the data. School officials shall presume that the parent has the authority to inspect and review records
relating to his/her child unless the school system has been advised that the parent does not have the authority under applicable state law governing guardianship, separation, and divorce.
When a record contains information about students other than the parent’s child or the eligible student, the parent(s) or eligible student may not inspect and review that information.
FEES FOR COPIES
A reasonable fee for copies provided to parent(s) or eligible students* will be determined by the Director of Schools. A maximum of three (3) copies of the transcript will be provided free of charge. If the fee represents an unusual hardship, it may be waived in part or entirely by the records custodian.CORRECTION PROCEDURES
Parent(s) of students or eligible students* may seek to change any part of the student’s record they believe to be incorrect. The Director of Schools shall develop an acceptable procedure to establish an orderly process to review and correct an education record.
*The student becomes an “eligible student” when he/she reaches 18 or enrolls in a post-secondary school, at which time all of the above rights become the student’s rights.
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Board Policy STU 15- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
34 CFR 99.10
TRR/MS 0520-1-3-.09(5)(e); 34 CFR 99.4.
T.C.A. 10-7-506; 34 CFR 99.11
34 CFR 99.20; 21;22
STUDENT RECORDS:
ANNUAL NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS
Within the first three weeks of each school year, the school system will notify parent(s) of students and eligible students* of each student’s privacy rights. For students enrolling after the above period, this information will be given to the student’s parent(s) or the eligible student at the time of enrollment. The notice will include the right of the student’s parent(s) or the eligible student to:
1. Inspect and review the student’s education records;
2. Seek correction of items in the record which are believed to be inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the student’s rights, including the right to a
hearing upon request;
3. File a complaint with the appropriate state or federal officials when the school system violates laws and regulations relative to student records;
4. Obtain a copy of this policy and a copy of such educational records;
5. Exercise control over other people’s access to the records except when
prior written consent is given or under circumstances as provided by law
or regulations or where the school system has designated certain
information as “directory information.”
Parent(s) of students or eligible students have two weeks after notification to advise school system in writing of items they designate not to be used as directory information. The records custodian at each school will mark the appropriate student records for which directory information is to be limited, and this designation will remain in effect until it is modified by the written direction of the student’s parent(s) or the eligible student.DIRECTORY INFORMATION
“Directory information” means information contained in the education record of a student to which the public would have access and which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. It includes, but is not limited to, the student’s name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address, photograph, date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, grade level, enrollment status, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, degrees, honors and awards received, and the most recent educational agency or institution attended.
*The student becomes an “eligible student” when he/she reaches age 18 or enrolls in a post-secondary school, at which time all of the above rights become the student’s rights.

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Board Policy STU 14- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
34 CFR 99.4
24 CFR 99.7; T.C.A. 10-7-504
34 CFR 99.3
34 CFR 99.5
USE OFSTUDENT RECORDS
Authorized school officials will have access to and permit access to student records for legitimate educational purposes. A school official is a person employed by the school system as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the school system has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A “legitimate educational interest” is the official’s need to know information in order to:
1. Perform required administrative tasks;
2. Perform a supervisory or instructional task directly related to the student’s
education; and/or
3. Perform a service or benefit for the student or the student’s family such as
health care, counseling, student job placement, or student financial aid.
Authorized school officials may release information from or permit access to a student’s education record without the parent(s)’ or eligible student’s* prior written consent in the following instances:
1. To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. The school
system will make a reasonable effort to notify the student’s parent(s) or the
eligible student before making a disclosure;
2. If the disclosure is an item of directory information;
3. To comply with the requirements of child abuse reports to the extent known by the school officials including the name, address and age of the child, the name
and address of the person responsible for the care of the child, and the facts
requiring the report;
4. When certain federal and state officials need information in order to audit or
enforce legal conditions related to federally-supported education programs in
the school system;
5. When the school system has entered into a contract or written agreement for an
organization to conduct scientific research on the system’s behalf to develop tests
or improve instruction, provided that the studies are conducted in a manner which
will not permit the personal identification of students and their parents by individuals other than representatives of the organization, and the information will be destroyed
when no longer needed for the purpose for which the study was conducted;

6. To appropriate officials if the parent(s) claim the student as a dependent as defined by the Internal Revenue Code of 1954;
7. To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions;
8. When a student seeks or intends to enroll in another school district or a post- secondary school. Parent(s) of students of eligible students have a right to
obtain copies of records transferred under this provision;
9. To financial institutions or government agencies that provide or may provide financial aid to a student in order to establish eligibility, to determine the amount of financial aid, to establish conditions for the receipt of financial aid, and to enforce financial aid agreements;
10. To make the needed disclosure in a health or safety emergency when warranted by the seriousness of the threat to the student or other persons, when the informa- tion is necessary and needed to meet the emergency, when time is an important and limiting factor, and when the persons to whom the information is to be dis- closed are qualified and in a position to deal with the emergency.
Authorized school officials may release information from a student’s education record if the student’s parent(s) or the eligible student gives consent for the disclosure. The written consent must include:
1. A specification of the records to be released;
2. The reasons for the disclosure;
3. The person, organization, or class or persons or organizations to whom the disclosure is to be made;
4. The signature of the parent(s) or eligible student;
5. The date of the consent and, if appropriate, a date when the consent is to be terminated. The student’s parent(s) or the eligible student may obtain
a copy of any records disclosed under this provision.

The school system will maintain an accurate record of all requests to disclose information from or to permit access to a student’s education records. The system will maintain an accurate record of information it discloses and access it permits. The system will maintain this record as long as it maintains the student’s education record.
The record will include at least:
1. The name of the person or agency that makes the requests;
2. The interest the person or agency has in the information;
3. The date the person or agency makes the requests; and
4. Whether the request is granted, and, if it is, the date access is
permitted or the disclosure is made.

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Board Policy STU 16- Back to Table of Contents-
Legal References:
USCA 20-1232g; T.C.A. 10-7-503; T.C.A. 10-7-504
Dept. of Ed. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
T.C.A. 37-1-403
TRR/MS 0520-1-3-.09(5)(e)(7)
1979 Internal Revenue Code (1954 Amendment), Sections 151 and 170
TRR/MS 0520-1-3-.03(11)(e)
SCHOOL VISITORS
Except on public occasions such as athletic events and open houses, all visitors must report to the school office when entering a school and sign a log book. Authorization to visit elsewhere in the building or on the school campus will be determined by the principal or designee. Generally, guest passes shall be issued for all persons other than students and employees of the schools.
In order to maintain the conditions and atmosphere suitable for learning, no person shall enter onto the grounds or into the school buildings during hours of student instruction except students assigned to that school, the staff of the school, parents of students, and other persons with lawful and valid business on the school premises.
The principal or the principal’s designee has the authority to exclude from the premises any person who is disrupting the educational program in the classroom or the school, disturbing a teacher or student on the premises, or who is on the premises for the purpose of committing an illegal act.
The principal shall contact law enforcement officials when the principal believes the situation warrants it.
Students may not bring non-student brothers or sisters to school, unless approved by the Director of Schools or his/her designee. Requests to bring out-of-town visitors to school must be approved by the principal.

CENTRAL OFFICE AND ALL OTHER
NON-SCHOOL FACILITIES
Except on occasions such as special programs, public meetings, open houses, or other public events, all visitors will use the appropriate entrance and report to the reception desk or designated area when entering the facility and will sign a log book during normal office hours. Authorization to visit elsewhere in the facility will be determined by the Director of Schools or his/her designee. Generally, guest passes shall be issued for all visitors.
In order to maintain the conditions and atmosphere for a suitable work environment, only persons with lawful and valid business shall enter the facilities.
The Director of Schools, supervisors, or designees have the authority to exclude from the premises any persons disrupting the work environment at a facility, disturbing the employees in the facility, or committing an illegal act in the facility. The Director of Schools, supervisors, or designees shall contact law enforcement officials when the situation warrants such measures.

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Board Policy BO 29- Back to Table of Contents-
SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Special Education programs and related services are available to all Murfreesboro City School students who have been identified as meeting Federal and State eligibility criteria and for which IEP Teams have determined that the students’ needs cannot be met in the regular program without Special Education intervention.

ANNUAL CHILD FIND
The Murfreesboro City School System participates in an annual state-wide census of children with disabilities. Child Find is the name attached to this program which seeks to locate children with disabilities in order to provide services to them.
All verified children with disabilities, between the ages of three and fourteen, may be eligible for special education services and will be reported to the State Department of Education. Younger children, from birth up to age three, will be reported for the purpose of future planning.
If you know a child with a suspected disability, and is between the ages of birth and fourteen, resides within the city limits, and is not currently enrolled in school, please call Priscilla Van Tries, Supervisor of Special Education, at 893-2313. Mrs. Van Tries is available to speak with any organization, group, or individual concerning the evaluations and services which are available through the Murfreesboro City School System.

GIFTED EDUCATION- Back to Table of Contents-
Included under the Special Education umbrella are services to intellectually gifted students. Intellectually gifted refers to having intellectual abilities and potential for achievement so outstanding that special provisions are required to meet the educational needs of the student.
A child is assessed for giftedness through a multi-modal identification process, wherein no singular mechanism, criteria, or cut-off score is used for determination of eligibility. Areas addressed and evaluated for eligibility determination include academic performance, motivation, creative thinking, academic achievement, and cognitive/intellectual ability. The screening and comprehensive assessment data results must meet specific eligibility standards based on multiple criteria and multiple assessment measures.