Although every effort will be made to update the handbook on a regular basis, Williamson County Schools reserves the right to change this handbook and any content within, without notice, except as may be required by state and federal law. As a result, the online version of the handbook shall be the official version.

English Learners

If the inability to speak and understand the English language excludes a student from effective participation in the educational programs offered by WCS, WCS shall take reasonable actions to provide the student equal access to its programs. Students who are English learners (EL) shall be identified, assessed, and provided appropriate services. No student shall be admitted to or excluded from any program or extracurricular activity based on the student’s surname or EL status.

The Superintendent shall evaluate the effectiveness of the district’s language assistance programs to ensure EL students will acquire English proficiency and the ability to participate in the standard instructional program within a reasonable period of time.

Parents/guardians of EL students shall be given notice of, and information regarding, the instructional program within the first thirty (30) days of the school year or within the first two (2) weeks of a student being placed in a language instruction educational program.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 4.207.

Homebound Instruction

The homebound instruction program is for students who because of a medical condition are unable to attend the regular instructional program. The homebound instruction program shall consist of three (3) hours of instruction per week while school is in session for a period of time determined, on a case-by-case basis, by WCS.

To qualify for this program, a student shall have a medical condition that will require the student to be absent for a minimum of ten (10) consecutive instructional days, or for an aggregate of at least ten (10) instructional days for a student who has a chronic medical condition. The student shall be certified by his/her treating physician as having a medical condition that prevents him/her from attending regular classes. The services provided to the homebound student shall reflect the student’s capabilities and be determined by the homebound instructor, after consultation with appropriate professional staff of the student’s assigned school.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 4.206.

Homeless Students

Homeless students shall be immediately enrolled, even if the student is unable to produce records normally required for enrollment (i.e., academic records, immunization records, health records, proof of residency) or missed the district’s application or enrollment deadlines. Parent(s)/guardian(s) are required to submit contact information to the district’s homeless coordinator. The Superintendent shall ensure that each homeless student is provided services comparable to those offered to other students within WCS, including transportation, special education services, programs in career and technical education, programs for gifted and talented students, and school nutrition.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 6.503 or visit the WCS website.

 

Migrant Students

The District shall:

1. Identify migratory students and assess the educational and related health and social needs of each student;
2. Provide a full range of services to qualifying migrant students including applicable Title I programs, special education, gifted education, vocational education, language programs, counseling programs, elective classes, fine arts classes, etc.;
3. Provide migratory students with the opportunity to meet the same statewide assessment standards that all students are expected to meet;
4. To the extent feasible, provide advocacy and outreach programs to migratory students and their families and professional development for district staff; and
5. Provide parent(s)/guardian(s) an opportunity to participate in the program.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 6.503 for more information.

 

Section 504 and ADA Grievance Procedures

 

WCS is committed to maintaining equitable employment and educational practices, services, programs, and activities that are accessible and usable by individuals with disabilities. To discuss concerns or seek resolutions related to Section 504 or the ADA, contact Student Support Services. SSS shall respond to all complaints within twenty (20) days with a written response as well as information on further grievance procedures that may be followed if the complaining party is not satisfied with the coordinator's proposed resolution.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 1.802 or visit the Student Support Services website here.

 

Students in Foster Care

Students in foster care, including those awaiting foster care placement, shall be immediately enrolled, even if the student is unable to produce records normally required for enrollment (i.e., academic records, immunization records, health records, proof of residency) or missed the district’s application or enrollment deadlines.

WCS and the child welfare agency shall determine whether placement in a particular school is in a student’s best interest. Other parties, including the student, foster parents/guardians, and biological parents/guardians (if appropriate), shall be consulted. If the child has an IEP or a Section 504 plan, then the relevant school staff members shall participate in the best interest decision process. This determination shall be made as quickly as possible to prevent educational disruption.

WCS shall collaborate with the local child welfare agency to develop and implement clear and written procedures governing how transportation to a student’s school of origin shall be provided, arranged, and funded. This transportation will be provided for the duration of the student’s time in foster care.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 6.505.

 

Students from Military Families

A student who does not currently reside within Williamson County shall be allowed to enroll if he/she is a dependent child of a service member who is being relocated to Tennessee on military orders. To be eligible for enrollment, the student will need to provide documentation that he/she will be a resident of the district on relocation. Within thirty (30) of enrollment, the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the student shall provide proof of residency within the district. 

Students with parent(s)/guardian(s) in the military may also be eligible for excused absences related to his/her deployment.

For more information, refer to WCSB Policy 6.506.

 

Students with Disabilities

 

Williamson County Schools, in compliance with federal and state law, performs a countywide Child Find. Child Find uses screening to find students in both public school or private school located in the geographic region who may need special education services and supports.

 

There are two types of screening. The first is a general screening of preschool age children throughout the school year. These screenings are on-going and serve preschool-aged children. The other kind of screening is only for school-aged children. A child can be referred for screening by school personnel, the family and/or individuals in the county (physicians, child care providers, etc.) This should be done any time it is suspected that a child has a disability.

 

Visit the Student Support Services tab on the WCS website (here) for more information.

Athletics

All students participating in interscholastic athletics must have a current athletic physical form, concussion release form, and cardiac arrest form on file with the athletic department prior to participation in any tryout or practice. Forms may be submitted on Final Forms. Information regarding individual teams and expectations for student athletes may be found on the school’s website. See Williamson County Board of Education Policy 4.301 for additional information.

Custodial Issues/Parenting Plan

Custodial parents/guardians must inform the school immediately upon any changes in custody, especially court restraining orders. Non-custodial parents may contact the school regarding access to their student’s academic progress. All families with a parenting plan must have that plan on file with their child/children’s front office(s), along with any subsequent orders or changes to the parenting plan or court order establishing the primary residential parent. See Williamson County Board of Education policy 6.209.

Drug-Free Schools

Students shall not unlawfully possess, handle, transmit, use, be under the influence of, share, or sell drugs or any controlled substances in any way in school buildings, on school grounds, or on other grounds used for school purposes, (including parking lots or athletic facilities), on school buses, or at any school sponsored activity (See WCSB Policy 6.307).

Emergency Closings

Parents/guardians of Williamson County Schools students will receive school closure notifications by phone, text, email, mobile app, and social media. Visit the App Store or Google Play to download our app for free. Search for Williamson County Schools.

The district aims to notify parents/guardians and staff members of delays and cancellations by 9:00 PM the night before. If not possible, the district will begin notifying families as early as 5:00 AM the morning of the day school is closed.

Parents/guardians will be notified only at the main number on file in the phone notification system. If school is dismissed during the day, parents/guardians will receive notification to all of the phone numbers on file.

Extracurricular Activities, Clubs, and Organizations

All students will need to have a signed permission form before participation in any activity of a club or organization. Permission forms are located on the school website under the extracurricular tab.

Field Trips

Students may have the opportunity to participate in several field trips as extensions of classroom activities throughout the year. Teachers will notify parents/guardians concerning field trips and send home permission forms for parent/guardian's signature. The school must have on file written permission from the parent/guardian before a student may go on a field trip. If the written permission slip is not returned by the due date, the child will not be able to attend the field trip. Students will travel by bus to and from all off-campus trips.  Any exceptions to this procedure must be approved by the principal. See the WCSB Policy 4.302 for more information. 

Fire, Tornado, and Emergency Drills

See Williamson County Board of Education policy 3.202 for more information on emergency procedures.

Moment of Silence or Prayer

Tennessee State Law – (TCA 49-6-1004):

In order for all students and teachers to prepare themselves for the activities of the day, a period of silence of approximately one minute in duration shall be maintained in each grade in public schools at the beginning of each school day. The teacher shall not indicate or suggest to the students any action to be taken by them during this time but shall maintain silence for the full time. It is lawful for any teacher in any of the schools of the state to permit the voluntary participation by students or others in prayer. Nothing contained in this section shall authorize any teacher or other school authority to prescribe the form or content of any prayer.

Notification of Rights Under FERPA

See the WCS website for more information on the Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act. 

Parent and Family Communication

Ongoing communication from school to home and from home to school is essential. Your ideas, questions, and concerns are important. Teachers, administrators, and some support staff have a WCS e-mail address.  Although you may wish to communicate with your child’s teacher by e-mail, please be aware that e-mail is not always confidential.  Please do not send time sensitive information by e-mail. It is our goal to return parent/guardian communication in all forms within 48 hours on Monday-Friday when school is in session.

Photography and Videography Guidelines

The WCS Communications Department has provided the following guidelines for parents regarding photography and videography in schools. The purpose of the guidelines is to address problems that have occurred at some schools when parents have taken pictures at school and posted them on online social media sites.

• Parents are advised not to post on social media any pictures taken at school that include any children other than their own.
• Picture-taking at non-public school events: These events occur before, during, and after school and include class parties, field trips, assemblies to which the public is not invited (ex. talent show during the day, etc.) Parents are encouraged to take photos/video of their own children but should not take photos/video of other children.
• Picture-taking at public school events: This includes events that are open to the public such as Back to School Bash, Family Fun Night, etc.  Parents may take photos at public school events that include other people's children but should avoid posting these photos to social media.

School Nutrition Program

See the WCS website (here) for more information about the school nutrition program.

Student Enrollment

All new students will register online using their Family Access account login.  If you choose not to use the online registration, paper packets can be picked up in the front office. Returning students should submit the intent to return documentation on Skyward each year. If you would prefer these forms on paper, you may contact your front office. See WCS website (here) for more information about open enrollment and other enrollment options.

Student Fees

Visit the Students Fees page on the WCS website for more information about student fees.

Student Withdrawal

If a move or other circumstance requires a withdrawal from school, a withdrawal form must be completed, all WCS issued materials and devices must be turned in, and a student must be in good standing with the library and cafeteria. Once all requirements are met, a parent/guardian may withdraw a student from school. Contact your school for more information regarding withdrawal.

Textbooks

Parents and guardians shall accept full responsibility for the proper care, preservation, return, or replacement of textbooks and instructional materials, including Chromebooks. See Williamson County Board of Education Policy 4.401 for more information about textbooks and instructional materials.

Transportation

Bus Riders

Visit the Bus Routes & School Zones page on WCS website for information, policies, and practices regarding bus transportation.

Car Riders

Your school will communicate with you at the beginning of the school year regarding procedures for car riders.

Walkers/Bikers

Your school will communicate with you at the beginning of the school year regarding procedures for walkers and/or bikers.

Visitors to Schools

1. All visitors must enter and exit through the main office doors.
2. Parents/guardians, visitors, and volunteers must present photo identification to enter the building.
3. All visitors must sign in and out in the office and wear a visitor or volunteer sticker/badge at all times.
4. School personnel escort visitors touring the school.

See WCSB Policy 1.501 for additional information.

Academic Integrity

Academic excellence is a hallmark of Williamson County Schools, and we firmly believe that students should take pride in achieving success on their own merit while promoting honesty, integrity, and responsible conduct among all within the school community. We believe that the completion of an individual’s work provides the feeling of confidence and self-efficacy that helps them achieve ultimate success. As a community, we ask students to pledge to complete their work with academic integrity and take pride in the great accomplishment that comes with graduating from Williamson County Schools. School consequences could follow for any student violating our district integrity commitment. 

Assessment

Three components play a critical role into every Williamson County Schools student’s educational program: a solid curriculum, effective instruction, and quality assessment. Curriculum, derived from state standards, defines what students need to know. Instruction is the practice of teaching each student that curriculum. Assessment is used to measure the student’s progress and mastery of what is being taught.

Please make every effort to have your student at school on time during assessment windows. No absences will be excused for family trips during these windows. You may view the district assessment resources here.

Attendance

Consistent attendance and punctuality is a cornerstone of student progress and success. If students repeatedly miss school or are often tardy, it puts them at risk for misunderstanding concepts that are taught and reinforced while they are not present. Additionally, student attendance is one of the categories the federal and state governments use to evaluate schools and assess whether or not they are making adequate yearly progress. Consistent attendance is a priority for Williamson County Schools.

Tardies and Early Dismissals

Students arriving after the start of school are tardy. See WCS website here for start times and dates for Late Start Days.

Early dismissals are strongly discouraged within 30 minutes of the end of the school day due to the interruption of instructional time in classes and are a disruption to the regular dismissal process. Instructional time continues until dismissal.  Office personnel must verify the identification of individuals when releasing a student. The parent/guardian must sign the student out in the office when the parent/guardian arrives to pick up the student, stating time and reason, and office personnel will call the student to the office when the parent/guardian arrives to pick up the student.  

Parents/guardians must communicate in writing the permission for someone to pick up a student other than the parent/guardian. Office personnel will ask for a state-issued photo ID when someone comes to school to check out a student. Students may not be picked up from car services such as Uber and Lyft.  These companies prohibit minors from being transported alone.

Late arrival and early dismissal may be excused for the following reasons: (1) illness, (2) death in the family, (3) recognized religious holiday, (4) doctor or dentist appointment, or (5) principal approved emergency or exceptional circumstances.

Excused Absences

As detailed in Williamson County Board of Education Policy 6.200, excused absences include: (1) illness, (2) death in the family, (3) recognized religious holiday, (4) doctor or dentist appointment, or (5) Principal approved emergency or exceptional circumstances.

Written Documentation

The Williamson County School Board Policy 6.200 requires written parental or medical documentation for all absences, tardies, and early dismissals. This documentation ensures that school personnel are fully and accurately informed about your child. All absences are considered “unexcused” until a note is sent, preferably within 48 hours of the student’s return to school. The designation of an absence as “excused” is at the final discretion of the principal. When a student’s absences exceed 8 days, a doctor’s note will be required to excuse all future absences.  Notes are kept on file for the school year.  Parents/guardians may also send an email with all appropriate information to the school’s front office.

Notes should state:

• Child’s name
• Teacher’s name
• Date(s) of absence
• Reason for absence
• Doctor’s note attached (if applicable)
• Parent or guardian signature

School Notification

When a student accumulates a total of 8 total absences, all other absences will be considered unexcused unless a doctor’s note is presented within 48 hours of returning to school. 

In accordance with state guidelines for schools related to truancy, Williamson County Schools has implemented a three-tiered system to monitor attendance.  Parents/guardians will be notified as unexcused absences accumulate (recorded) to proactively help with truancy concerns.

• 3 unexcused absences - parents/guardians will be notified via email or phone.
• 5 unexcused absences – Tier II truancy intervention begins, and a meeting will be held with family and school personnel. The team will create a contract to support the family and ensure subsequent school attendance. Follow-up meetings will be planned to monitor progress.
• If the student continues to accumulate absences, Tier III of truancy intervention may be triggered and additional interventions, including potential juvenile court referral, will be established.

The Tennessee Department of Education Accountability Regulations (ESSA) defines students as "chronically absent" after 18 absences per year, regardless of excused or unexcused.  Students who accumulate 18 or more absences will be considered “Chronically Absent” and reported to the state.

Grading System

See Williamson County Board of Education Policy 4.600 for information regarding the grading system.

Homework

Homework is defined as purposeful academic assignments given to students by teachers, which are to be completed outside of class time. See Williamson County Board of Education Policy 4.609 for more information on homework.

Response to Intervention (RTI)

A general education initiative, Response to Instruction and Intervention, or RTI, is a comprehensive framework for supporting students academically that focuses on high-quality instruction and evidence-based interventions.  Instruction and intervention is tailored to meet the needs of the student through the use of initial screening data. Screening data come from assessments designed to identify student strengths and areas of need in reading, mathematics, and written expression.

Student Progress

Student performance may be accessed through Skyward Family Access for all students. Parents/guardians may request that a printed copy of their student’s report card be sent home each nine weeks. More information regarding student progress polices can be found in WCS Board of Education Policy 4.603.

Communicable Diseases

No student shall be denied an education solely because of a communicable disease, and his/her educational program shall be restricted only to the extent necessary to minimize the risk of transmitting the disease.

When determining whether your child is well enough to attend school, please refer to the Williamson County Schools Illness Guidelines.  Please note that your child should not be sent to school until he/she has been fever free for at least 24 hours without taking a fever reducing medication.

If the school nurse determines that your child needs to leave, we ask that you or an emergency contact pick up your child within the hour that you are called.

If you have any other questions regarding health services, policies or procedures, please visit the Williamson County Schools Health Services Site.

Immunizations

No students entering school, including those entering kindergarten or first grade, those from out-of-state, and those from nonpublic schools, will be permitted to enroll (or attend) without proof of immunization, as determined by the Tennessee Commissioner of Health. It is the responsibility of the parent(s)/guardian(s) to have their children immunized and to provide such proof to the school for which the student is to attend.

Exceptions, in the absence of an epidemic or immediate threat thereof, will be granted to any student whose parent/guardian files with school authorities the following:

1. A signed, written statement that such immunization and other preventative measures conflict with the parent’s or guardian’s religious tenets and practices, affirmed under the penalties of perjury;
2. A written statement from the student’s doctor excusing the student from immunization due to medical reasons;
3. Any student determined to be homeless, pursuant to federal law, may not be denied admission because of the student’s lack of immunization records due to being homeless.

Proof of exceptions will be in writing and filed in the same manner as other immunization records.

Medicines

The school nurse may only administer medications that are provided and authorized by the parent/guardian. Students should not have prescription or over-the-counter medicines on their person or stored in their locker. You can find the medication authorization form here.

Physical Examinations

Each student shall have a complete physical examination prior to:

1. Entering public school for the first time
2. Participation as a member of any interscholastic athletic team on an annual basis.

Cost of the examination shall be borne by the parent/guardian of the student. These records shall be on file in the student’s record. 

Screening tests as required by the Tennessee Departments of Education and Health will be conducted. Parent(s)/guardian(s) will receive written notice of any screening result that indicates a condition that might interfere or tend to interfere with their student's progress. 

In general, the school will not conduct physical examinations of a student without parental consent or by court order, unless the health or safety of the student or others is in question.

Suspensions
See Williamson County Board of Education policy 6.316 for more information regarding suspensions.

Title IX & Sexual Harassment
In order to maintain a safe, civil, and supportive learning environment, all forms of sexual harassment and discrimination on the basis of sex are prohibited. This shall cover employees, employees' behaviors, students, and students' behaviors while on school property, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided equipment or transportation, or at any official school bus stop in accordance with federal law.

The Title IX Coordinator shall respond promptly to all general reports as well as formal complaints of sexual harassment and may be reached at any time by phone or email.  

For additional information concerning Title IX and sexual harassment, see board policy 6.3401 or the Title IX website.

Zero Tolerance
The following are zero-tolerance offenses that will result in a calendar year expulsion:

1. Bringing to school or being in unauthorized possession of a firearm or any dangerous weapon on school property;
   
   
2. Possession of drugs or alcohol, including any controlled substance, controlled substance analogue, or legend drug on school grounds or at a school-sponsored event;
   
   
3. Aggravated assault;
   
   
4. Assault that results in bodily injury upon any teacher, principal, administrator, any other employee of the school, or school resource officer; and
   
   
5. Threats of mass violence

For more information, refer to Williamson County School Board policy 6.309.

Students are expected to adhere to the guidelines established in the WCS Board Policy 4.4061 Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Agreement.

• Students at HMS may only use their personal devices when permitted by teachers. 
• All cell phones, SMART WATCHES, and other personal technology devices should be turned off and put in student lockers.  
• Students may not use their cell phones or earbuds or other technology devices in the hallway, in the cafeteria, in the gym, in the restroom, or in the locker rooms.  
• If a student needs to contact his/her parents, he/she may request permission from the teacher to use the cell phone. Reasons that are acceptable to request permission are canceled practice or change of practice, etc.  Students who forget items or other non-emergency requests should wait until the end of the class period, get a note from the teacher, and then go to the office to use the phone.

If a student neglects to abide by the procedures above:  

• The teacher will ask the student to turn off the device (cell phone or earbuds) and place it on the teacher’s desk.  The teacher will turn it in to the front office for the student to pick up at the end of the school day.    
• The student will receive a minor in PBIS for not abiding by the cell phone policy. 
• A student who has a cellphone in the bathroom will result in consequences that can result in ISS or placement in ALC!
• A student who becomes a repeat offender will lose cell phone privileges.  

Heritage Middle School Student Chromebook Condition Agreement

I understand that it is my responsibility to keep the Chromebook and its charger that has been checked out by me by Williamson County Schools in good working condition.  If they are lost, stolen, or damaged beyond repair, I understand that I will be responsible for the replacement cost of the Chromebook and/or charger. By signing this form, I acknowledge that any damage beyond normal wear and tear will be my responsibility and may result in either a fine or the entire cost of the Chromebook and/or charger if they cannot remain in circulation. I also understand that I must return both the Chromebook and its charger at the end of the school year or upon termination of my enrollment at Heritage Middle School.
I understand that I must bring my Chromebook to school fully charged each day.  If I do not bring it, or it is not fully charged, I will incur a classroom step.  I will incur an additional step each time that I forget to bring or charge my Chromebook.
I will be held responsible for the cost of repairs that are needed to fix it or to replace the Chromebook and/or charger.  If I am found to be responsible for another student’s Chromebook damage or charger damage, I am held responsible for those damages, too.  
The costs that may be incurred are as follows:

• Replacement  or repair of Charger: $20.00
• Intentional or other device damages: $40.00
• Lost device or complete destruction of device: $100.00 or more at principal's discretion

Academic Grading Scale
A: 90-100
B: 80-89
C: 70-79
D: 60-69
F: 0-59

Assessments
Williamson County students participate in both formative and summative assessments. Formative assessments are ongoing classroom assessments utilized to inform instruction. Examples include exit tickets, quizzes, unit tests, STAR universal screeners and benchmark assessments. Summative assessments typically take place at the end of a unit or course. They are utilized to guide the teachers and the school on overall approaches and strategies for instruction. Students in grades 6-12 will participate in the district-wide reading and math STAR screener. Students in grades 3-12 will participate in state and district assessments. During assessment windows, we ask that parents make every attempt to have students present at school and on time. 

Child Find
Child Find is how Williamson County Schools identify students who may need extra support. This may include children who are gifted, as well as students who have trouble seeing or hearing, need special education services, or need added support to learn. It is important to identify children and give them the help they need as early as possible. Families concerned about a child can refer the child for screening by calling Student Support Services at 615-472-4130.

Course of Study
The Tennessee Department of Education sets the curriculum standards for courses taught in the state for all K-12 Public Schools. In William County Schools, all schools share a scope and sequence for each grade level and course. The scope and sequence describes what students will learn – the content and skills to be taught in the classroom. The sequence describes the order in which skills and content should be taught, ensuring that students are able to build continually on prior knowledge and build deep understanding. The WCS Scope and Sequence includes Tennessee’s academic standards, student-friendly “I can” statements that describe competencies, and resources available to teachers, students, and parents. At HMS, each grade level is divided into teams of teachers and students who work together to achieve academic and personal goals. Teachers are on collaborative teams to plan instruction and work together to problem solve all situations. Teachers share consistent expectations and will support all students on their learning journey. The daily schedule followed by students is composed of four academic classes (English Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies), two enrichment classes with intervention days and time included, and a Flight-Time.

Homework
Please refer to WCS Board Policy 4.609.
Homework is an extension of the learning and allows independent practice and reinforcement of skills and concepts presented in class. In addition, it is an expectation that students read each night as research shows the vast impact it has on overall learning.

Homework is defined as purposeful academic assignments given to students by teachers, which are to be completed outside of class time. Homework will be:
1. Rigorous: Homework will be challenging and appropriate to the
developmental, emotional, and academic levels of the students; it will be structured for a high completion rate, and will be designed to be done independently without the assistance of the teacher or the parent.
2. Relevant: Students will realize the value of the homework in both their immediate and long-range goals.
3. Related: Teachers will relate homework directly to identified learning goals.

All homework assigned will be reviewed and constructive feedback will be given to the student. Teachers will not assign homework to be completed over holidays, breaks during the school year, summer, or with a due date that immediately follows these periods.

Homework is something that should be completed independently by the child. Parents are encouraged to monitor that homework is attempted or done. If a child is unable to complete work independently, this should be communicated to the child’s teacher. If a child is struggling to complete homework or is spending over the maximum time allotted, please contact the teacher. The teacher needs feedback at this point so that together you can resolve the issue. We understand students and families are busy and it is not our intent to dominate all of a student’s after-school hours with homework. It is our intent to promote organization, good work habits, practice, and responsibility in our students.

Protecting Instructional Time
Parents can help protect instructional time in the following ways:
1. Please make sure students have needed items for school each day.
2. Ensure that students arrive at school in time to be in their classrooms by 7:40 a.m.
3. Please schedule appointments for students outside of the school day when possible.
4. Plan family vacations when school is not in session.
5. Only visit classrooms when scheduled with teachers.
6. Do not go to classrooms during arrival or dismissal times unless you have a scheduled appointment with a teacher.
7. Avoid early dismissals whenever possible. Attendance matters.

HMS provides lockers for each student.  Students are not to share lockers or combinations. Students may ONLY use the locker that is assigned to them. Students may NOT write on the outside or inside of lockers.  Students may not decorate the outside of lockers.  Magnets are acceptable to put up pictures.  Stickers or any adhesive is not allowed. Students are responsible for their money and belongings brought to school; therefore, lockers are to be securely locked at all times. “Rigging” lockers is not permitted.  Students are responsible for any damage done to lockers. Students can lose locker privileges due to damage or not using the locker appropriately. 

HMS provides a location for lost items. Please label all jackets, coats and personal items.  We will make every effort to return an item if it is labeled properly.  Unclaimed articles are donated to local charities at the end of each month. 

Messages and deliveries to students from parents need to be handled by the main office rather than texting your child or calling or e-mailing the classroom and interrupting learning. Parents should not text their child while at school as this disrupts the learning environment. If you must get something to your child, please bring it to the HMS front office by 10:30 AM. Students will have the opportunity to come to the front office to receive the message or pick up the items.  Certain items may also be distributed to students during their lunchtime.  Please put your child’s name on the item or lunch. HMS staff cannot guarantee that items left at the office will be picked up by the student as it is always the student’s responsibility to bring necessary materials and equipment to school each day.   Deliveries of flowers, balloons, cupcakes, etc. are not allowed.   

Attendance Policy

Parents can excuse up to 8 absences per year with a parent note. Any absence beyond the 8 parent notes will require a doctor's note to be excused. 

Please be sure to include the following in your attendance notes or emails:

• Student's First and Last name
• Date of absence or tardy
• Reason for absence or tardy (email the Attendance Secretary Heather Ehardt)

In an attempt to keep parents informed of their student's attendance, the county automatically generates attendance letters that are sent to the parents via email and/or by US Post Office. The information is sent during these times:

• 5 unexcused absences
• 8 total absences
• 15 total absences
• 20 total absences

Attendance Truancy Policy for Williamson County Schools 

• Tier 1: All students will be alerted to the Truancy Tiers.
• Tier 2: Students who accumulate 5 unexcused absences. Parents and students will have an attendance meeting with Mr. Sulateskee and an Attendance Contract will be created.
• Tier 3: Students who accumulate 8 unexcused absences.  Parents and students will have an attendance meeting with Mr. Sulateskee and Mr. Crossno, WCS Truancy Specialist. Truancy Intervention at Tier 3 could include, but not limited to, school-based community services, school based restorative practices, and petition filed with Williamson County Juvenile Court by the Truancy Intervention Specialist. 

Tardy Policy

Students must be in their classrooms by 7:40 A.M. in order to not be counted tardy. (8:25 A.M. on Late Start Days). The daily expectation is that students are seated in their desks when the bell rings each class period. 

Students are allowed 4 unexcused tardies per semester. Students will receive an hour of detention for each unexcused tardy beyond the 4 allowed.

Students who are on time for school and seated in each class period before the bell rings will participate in a TARDY FREE Party at the end of each quarter. Students who ride a late bus are not counted tardy when their bus is late.

HMS is a PBIS school that focuses on positively reinforcing students to make good choices and have good behavior.  We expect our students to live up to our motto: “Be Nice, Be Prepared, and Be Your Best”.   

Be Nice 

• Students will respect all adults, students, and school property by treating others the way they themselves should be treated. 
• Students will be intentional in how they treat others.
• Students will use good manners in all settings related to school
• Students will avoid language or actions that are inappropriate or hurtful to others. Profanity or negative conversations about others have no place at HMS. 
• Students’ words and actions will reflect a commitment to the safety of themselves and others.   

Be Prepared 

• Students will arrive at school on time and ready to learn.  
• Students will bring all expected classroom materials, participate in all classroom activities, and complete all assignments to the best of their ability. 

Be Your Best 

• Students will give their best effort and take pride in themselves and their school.
• Students will work to maintain a clean and well-presented school campus. 
• Students will act responsibly and make choices that positively impact themselves and the people around them. 
• Students will admit when they’ve made a mistake and accept responsibility for it. 
• Students will keep our school safe by reporting any concerns, fears, or complaints to a staff member.  If you see something, say something!  

Furthermore, we look forward to celebrating our students’ growth and success.  Various recognitions and rewards will be implemented throughout the year to reinforce these values.  

PBIS Points  
Heritage Middle School believes in celebrating and rewarding our students when they make the right choices.  During the year, teachers and administrators will award PBIS Points to students when they are found to be nice, prepared, and being their best. Students can see their points in the PBIS Rewards app on their ClassLink Dashboard. 

PBIS Rewards 
Students also have the opportunity, through being nice, being prepared, and being their best, to become eligible for rewards: 

• PBIS Store – Students can use the PBIS points they’ve earned to make purchases at the PBIS store on late-start days.
• No Missing Work – Weekly raffle. Students with no missing work are entered in the raffle.
• Top HR Attendance – Monthly prize for the homeroom classes with the highest attendance rate.
• On-Time, Every Time – 2x per quarter party for all students who have no tardies.
• Step-Free – 2x per quarter prize for all students with no majors or minors 

Minor Referral Offenses  
Teachers and staff will submit a Minor referral for committing Minor offenses.  Minors include but are not limited to:  

• Cheating
• Dress Code Violations
• Excessive talking/Classroom Disruption
• Tardy 
• Off Task/Refusal to work
• Bus Referral
• Inappropriate Use of Technology
• Inappropriate Language
• Non-Compliance with Teacher Directive
• Unprepared
• Minor Horseplay
• Lying
• Closing Another Student’s Locker or Chromebook 

Minor Referral Consequences 
Consequences for Minors may include but are not limited to:  

• Parental Notification 
• Student Conference 
• Lunch Detention
• Morning or Afternoon Detention
• Saturday School 

At a minimum, students will earn the following consequences for an accumulation of Minors per nine weeks:

• 1 Minor - Parent will be notified.
• 2 Minors – Student will be assigned Lunch Detention and Parent will be notified. 
• 3 Minors – Student will be assigned morning or afternoon detention and the parent will be notified.
• 4 Minors – Student will be assigned Saturday School from 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM on a Saturday in which the school is holding Saturday School.
• 5 Minors – This accumulation will result in a Major Referral, which will be addressed by school administrators.  Consequences may include, but are not limited to: Saturday School, In-School Suspension, or other natural consequences deemed appropriate by the administration based on the specific student behaviors.

*The accumulation of Minors will reset at the end of each nine weeks.

Major Referral  

• An accumulation of 5 or more Minor referrals 
• Bullying/Harassment
• Defiance/Disrespect
• Theft
• Fighting/Assault
• Inappropriate behavior or language causing a major disruption
• Possession of drugs, alcohol, or paraphernalia 
• Vandalism
• Skipping class/out of pocket
• Making a false report
• Videoing or instigating a fight
• Major Horseplay
• Destruction of school property or defacement of school property
• Threats to others or the school as a whole
• Possession or distribution of pornography
• Possession or distribution of tobacco, vapes, or paraphernalia 
• Possession or distribution of weapons (anything used in a manner that would render the item dangerous)
• Other actions deemed to be major offenses by administration 
   

Major Referral Consequences  
Administrative Intervention. Consequences may include Saturday School, In-School Suspension, assignment to the Alternative Learning Center, court petition, and/or other natural consequence deemed appropriate by administration based on the specific student behaviors.  If a Major infraction is committed multiple times, the consequence for that infraction will be harsher with each instance.  Major referrals do not reset until the end of the school year. 

Student Arrival and Dismissal Procedures
School begins at 7:45 AM on regular school days and 8:30 AM on Late Start days. 
Doors will open for car-rider drop-off at 7:00 AM each morning. 
School dismisses at 2:52 PM on regular school days and 11:20 on half days. 

Early Dismissal

If it becomes necessary for a student to check out early, a note stating the reason must be brought to school and shown to the teacher of the class from which the student will be dismissed.  Parents must come in and sign a student out of school.  Students must be present for 3.5 hours to be considered present for the day.  A student may not be dismissed after 2:15 PM. 

 

Inclement Weather Dismissal
During inclement weather it is difficult for our phone lines to handle all the last-minute instructions and personal phone calls. Please discuss an emergency plan with your child.  All students should have keys to their homes in case a surprise storm finds a parent away from the home.  Students will be sent home on the bus unless we have a written request on file in the office for a student to follow.   

On such days, the buses usually leave with plenty of time to get students home safely.  When school is canceled, regularly scheduled after-school events are canceled.

Parents of students attending Williamson County Schools will receive school closing notifications on their phones and on Facebook, through email and text. Parents will be contacted by phone and email if schools are closed due to hazardous travel conditions. The district’s phone notification system continues to be used by the school district and individual schools to notify parents of school closings and other important information. In addition, parents, students, and staff may “like” the school district's FACEBOOK PAGE and follow the district on TWITTER to receive the district’s school closing information. In addition, school closing information will be available on the Williamson County Schools cable access channels (Comcast 3, Charter 96, AT&T 99) and local radio station WAKM AM 950. School closing information can also be found on the front page of the district WEBSITE, just below the Twitter icon, and many Nashville area television stations will also broadcast school closings and early dismissal information. In Middle Tennessee, any type of inclement weather, including snow, ice, and flooding, can cause schools to close, along with extended power outages.  

Bus-Rider Procedures including Bus Notes 
Early loads in the morning will be let into the school by the cafeteria through the doors at the bus loop upon arrival.  In the afternoon, 2nd bus loads should remain seated in the HMS Cafeteria and follow all directions of HMS supervision as they wait for their buses to arrive. 
 
Riding Home on a Different Bus:
Due to buses being full, requests for bus passes will no longer be accepted until further notice.

The school bus is an extension of the school.  Students are expected to always exhibit appropriate behavior on the bus and to respect the authority of the bus drivers. Violators will receive disciplinary action including but not limited to removal from the bus by an administrator for a predetermined period of time. All school rules apply on the bus and at the bus stop.  
 
Visit the Bus Routes & School Zones page on WCS website for more information, rules, policies, and practices regarding bus transportation. 
 
Bus Rules (Refer to WCS Board Policy 3.400 and WCS Dept. of Transportation Rules and Regulations)  
 
Failure to obey the school bus driver may result in denial of school transportation. The decision regarding the disciplinary action is to be made by the school administration. WCS Bus Transportation Rules and Policies can be found here.   

Car Rider Arrival
HMS will use a single land drop-off in the mornings.

The arrival doors will open at 7:00 am in front of the building at the main entrance.

  
Car Rider Pick Up 
HMS will use both lanes in front of the building at the main entrance.
The car-rider lanes will open at 2:30 PM. Student dismissal will begin at 2:52 PM. (1/2-day dismissal will begin at 11:20 AM.)

Please follow these procedures: 

• Please pull as far forward as possible in the car-rider lanes when you arrive.
• Do not leave excessive space between cars.
• Once you are in the car-rider lanes, put your car in park until the dismissal of all cars.
• Please turn on your hazard flashing lights when parked if your student does not load.
• Once your child is in the vehicle, turn the hazard lights off. This will help staff to know if a parent is still waiting for a child to get to the vehicle before dismissing all vehicles.
• For safety reasons, we will not load students into cars until all cars have stopped within the loading zone.
• For safety reasons, we will not dismiss cars until all cars are loaded with students.
• Drivers must refrain from pulling out until being authorized by staff that lanes are clear of pedestrians.  Passing is not permitted. Please stay in your original lane.
• If a student is not outside in the car rider line once we have loaded the majority of the cars, we will ask the parent to pull around to the curb in order to keep traffic flowing.
• The loading zone (beginning and end) is clearly marked.
• Students will not be aloud to get into a car that is not within the parameters of the loading zone or into a car parked in the parking lot. 
• Students should be picked up from the car-rider line no later than 3:10 PM.

Parents/Visitors

Parents and visitors are required to sign in at the front office and indicate the reason for their visit. They are expected to sign-out before leaving the campus. Upon signing in, parents and visitors must provide a photo ID and should receive a Visitor’s Pass.   

HMS parents and guests should not enter classrooms or hallways without administrative permission. 

Parents may not escort students to classrooms in the morning. 

Parents should schedule visits with teachers and avoid impromptu conferences before and after school, and/or during student pickup times and athletic events.

A student will not be called out of class to receive lunch, forgotten homework, or a forgotten instrument. Parents should leave items in the office and students will retrieve them at the appropriate time (before lunch, before band, etc.).