Board Policy

Blount County Board of Education Policies

Blount County Courthouse Annex 204 2nd Avenue, East Oneonta, Alabama 35121

Adopted July 29, 1974

Revisions: August 18, 1975, June 14, 1976, June 7, 1977, May 1, 1978, June 11, 1979, May 5, 1980, May 4, 1981, May 3, 1982, June 14, 1982, May 2, 1983, May 7, 1984, August 6, 1984, May 6, 1985, June 10, 1985, August 5, 1985, May 5, 1986, June 9, 1986, May 4, 1987, May 18, 1987, May 2, 1988, May 1, 1989, June 5, 1989, July 11, 1989, May 7, 1990, July 2, 1990, May 14, 1991, June 1, 1992, May 3, 1993, June 8, 1993, May 2, 1994, July 5, 1994, November 28, 1994, May 1, 1995, May 23, 1995, June 3, 1996, May 15, 1997, May 20, 1999, June 14, 2001, March 2003, March 2005, Revised July 26, 2005, Revised July, 2006, Revised March 2007, Revised July 2007, Revised April 7, 2008, Revised April 10, 2008, Revised July 2008, August 2008, May 4. 2009, June 2009, October 2009, March 2010, June 2010, April 2011, February 17, 2012, July 2012, October 2012 November 1, 2012 November 2, 2012 May 6, 2013, October 7, 2013, July 8, 2014, August 11, 2014, September 8, 2014, January 5, 2015, April 6, 2015, February 8, 2016., March 7, 2016, July, 2016, October 3, 2016, May 10, 2017, June 5, 2017, December 14, 2018, May 22, 2019

BLOUNT COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION 204 2nd Avenue East Post Office Box 578 Oneonta, Alabama 35121-0578 Telephone (205) 775-1950

District 5

Chris Latta, President 975 Murphree Road Oneonta, AL 35121

District 1 District 2

Ken Benton Jackie Sivley, Vice President 675 Crosshill Lane P.O. Box 204 Warrior, Alabama 35180 Blountsville, AL 35031

District 3 District 4

Philip C. Cleveland, Ed.D. William Ferry 4398 County Highway 21 P.O.Box 531 Horton, AL 35980 Cleveland, AL 35049

SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION

Rodney P. Green 1680 Horton Mill Road Oneonta, Alabama 35121

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

Dr. Stoney M. Beavers 416 Swann Bridge Road Hayden, AL 35079

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

The Blount County Board of Education and Blount County Education Association recognize that their mutual aim is to provide a quality education for students in the Blount County School System. It is the policy of the Blount County Board of Education that no person shall on the basis of race, color, handicap, sex, religion, creed, national origin, or age be excluded from participation in, or be denied the benefits of, employment. The Board and the Association further recognize that the substance of such education depends primarily upon the quality and morale of the teachers and the staff.

These policies were formulated by a committee of eight teachers and principals and a committee of twelve students, representing the six high schools within the system. These groups served as advisory committees to the Superintendent.

After study, the Superintendent recommended to the Blount County Board of Education that these policies be adopted.

The Board gave formal approval in a special meeting on July 29, 1974.

STATEMENT AND NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION

The Blount County Board of Education hereby notifies all applicants for employment, students, parents, employees, and the public at large that this school system does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in admission or access to, or employment, or treatment in its programs and activities.

Any person having inquiries concerning Blount County Board of Education's compliance with the regulations implementing Title VI, Title IX, Section 504 or the Americans with Disabilities Act is directed to contact the person who is designated as the compliance officer. The name, telephone number, and address of this officer is available by contacting the office of the Blount County Board of Education.

(Added June 3, 1996)

POLICY REVISAL PROCEDURE

The development of sound educational policies is a complex and continuous process. The Board, Administration, and policy development committee members fully realize the need for continuous input from school district personnel, students and lay citizens. It is realized by all concerned that the policy statements contained in this manual may contain inconsistencies and/or errors and will need to be revised and updated periodically. We solicit your help in making this policy manual both functional and informative.

To insure orderly policy revision and to inform all interested persons of the policy revisal process, the following procedures will be utilized:

Procedures

When it becomes apparent that a need exists for revising, deleting or adding a policy statement the person(s) involved should:

Make this need known, in writing, to their immediate supervisor. The written statement should identify the discrepancy in the policy statement and their suggested alternative(s) for correction.

The supervisor involved will transmit the written statement through their supervisor(s) to the Superintendent of Schools

The Superintendent of Schools will submit the recommended policy change to the appropriate policy committee for consideration and advice. The policy committee will meet for action on such matters after (2) February 1st in alternate years beginning with the 2002-03 school year. The Superintendent of Education may call for committee meetings at any time to consider recommended policies and policy revisions. The Teacher Personnel Policy Committee members shall serve terms of two years and shall meet in the off-year to review any needed policy revisions. (1)

After review and consideration, the Superintendent of Schools will submit the policy committee's recommendation to the Board for consideration.

(2) (Revised and approved January 6, 2003) (Revised May 14, 1991)

TABLE OF CONTENTS Section I – Board of Education ...... 9 1.1 Responsibilities of the Board ...... 9 1.2 General Organization ...... 9 1.2.1 Board Member Training ...... 9 1.3 Meetings ...... 10 1.4 Operational Procedure ...... 11 1.5 Audio Recording, Video Recording, Live Broadcasting, Live Telecasting and the Making of Still Photographs During Meetings of the Blount County Board of Education ...... 11 1.6 Awards and Recognition ...... 12 Section II - Administration ...... 12 2.1 Superintendent ...... 12 2.2 Assistant Superintendent ...... 12 2.3 Supervisor of Transportation ...... 12 2.4 Principals ...... 13 2.5 Assistant Principal ...... 13 2.6 County Career Technical Program ...... 13 Section III - The Instructional Program ...... 14 3.0 Philosophy and Mission ...... 14 3.1 Curriculum ...... 14 3.3 Field Trips ...... 15 3.4 Textbooks ...... 16 3.5 Library Committee ...... 16 3.6 Guest Speakers ...... 17 3.7 Homework ...... 17 3.8 Parent Conferences ...... 17 3.9 Remedial Program ...... 18 3.10 Grading Periods for Schools ...... 18 3.11 Summer School Organization ...... 18 3.13 High School Students Earning Credit From Post-secondary Institutions-Dual Enrollment ...... 19 3.15 On-Line Course Guidelines ...... 20 Section IV - Personnel ...... 21 4.1 Employment ...... 21 4.1.1 Procedure ...... 21 4.1.2 Employees Subject To Criminal Records Background Check ...... 21 4.1.3 Qualifications of Certified Personnel ...... 22 4.1.4 Terms of Employment for Certified Personnel ...... 22 4.1.5 Terms of Employment for Paraprofessional Personnel ...... 22 4.1.6 Terms of Employment for Nonprofessional personnel ...... 22 4.1.7 Nepotism ...... 22 4.2 Determination of a year's experience ...... 23 4.3 General Requirements ...... 23 4.4 Teacher Assignments ...... 23 4.5 Teacher Responsibilities ...... 23 4.5.1 Professional Development ...... 24 4.6 Attendance ...... 24 4.7 Absences ...... 24 4.7.1 Sick Leave ...... 25 4.7.2 Sick Leave Bank ...... 26 4.7.2 Personal Leave ...... 26 4.7.4 Vacation Policy for Twelve Month Employees ...... 27 4.7.5 Professional Development/Field Trip/Activity ...... 27 4.7.6 Military Leave ...... 27

4.7.7 Sabbatical Leave ...... 27 4.7.8 Court Leave ...... 28 4.7.9 On-the-Job Injury ...... 28 4.7.10 Absence from unavoidable cause ...... 28 4.7.11 College study during the school year ...... 28 4.7.12 Job Abandonment ...... 29 4.8 Family Medical Leave ...... 29 4.8.1 Intermittent Leave ...... 29 4.8.2 Military Family Leave Provided by the Act ...... 29 4.8.3 Notification ...... 30 4.8.4 Certification ...... 30 4.8.5 Benefits ...... 30 4.8.6 Restoration ...... 30 4.9 Substitute Personnel ...... 31 4.10 Complaints and grievances ...... 31 4.11 Sexual Harassment Prohibited Conduct ...... 32 4.13 School Volunteers ...... 33 4.14 Outside employment ...... 33 4.15 Dress For Employees ...... 33 4.16 Accumulated Overtime Hours ...... 34 4.17 Student Welfare/Child Abuse and/or Neglect ...... 34 4.18 Personnel Files ...... 34 4.19 Political Advertising and Activities ...... 34 4.20 Educator Effectiveness/Lead Alabama Personnel Evaluation Program ...... 35 4.21 Transfers ...... 35 4.22 Retirement ...... 35 4.23 Reduction in Force of Certified Personnel ...... 35 4.24 Reduction in Force of Non-Certified Personnel ...... 36 Section V – Students ...... 39 5. Technology Responsible Use Policy (RUP) – Data Governance ...... 39 5.1 Admission ...... 42 5.2 Transfer ...... 44 5.3 Promotion and Retention Guidelines and Student Classification ...... 45 5.4 Attendance...... 47 5.4.1 School Attendance and License to Operate Motor Vehicles ...... 51 5.5 Graduation Requirements ...... 52 5.5.1 The Bridge Academy Virtual/Blended Program ...... 58 5.6 Graduation Honors ...... 59 5.7 Dress and Decorum ...... 60 5.8 Transportation...... 69 5.9 Safety Supervision ...... 70 5.10 School Athletics ...... 71 5.10.1 Blount County Board of Education Policy on Extracurricular Activity Participation- Academics First ...... 72 5.11 Extracurricular Activities ...... 73 5.13 Discipline ...... 74 5.14 Textbooks ...... 81 5.15 Visitors ...... 81 5.16 Medication ...... 82 5.17 Student Records ...... 83 5.18 Student Fees ...... 86 5.19 Students Leaving School During the School Day...... 87 5.20 Student Complaints and Grievances Procedure ...... 87 5.22 Head Lice (Pediculosis) ...... 88 5.23 Alternative School Program ...... 89 5.24 Sexual Harassment ...... 92

5.25 Voluntary Student Religious Expression and Prayer ...... 92 5.26 Exceptional Children ...... 94 5.27 Child Nutrition Program Charged Meal Policy ...... 95 Section VI - Business and Management ...... 95 6.1 Board Policies ...... 95 6.2 Accounting ...... 95 6.3 Purchasing ...... 96 6.4 Records ...... 97 6.5 Bonding ...... 97 6.6 Liability ...... 98 6.7 Insurance of Personnel ...... 98 6.8 Maintenance of Buildings and Grounds ...... 98 6.9 Solicitations ...... 98 6.10 Length of School Day and Year ...... 99 6.11 Air Conditioning ...... 99 6.12 Board Owned Vehicles ...... 100 6.13 Acceptance of Gifts by Employees ...... 100 6.14 Payroll Deduction Requirements ...... 100 6.16 Fundraising Activities ...... 101 6.17 Items Purchased or Sold at Individual Schools ...... 101 6.18 Employees Prohibited from Copying Computer ...... 101 Section VII – Transportation ...... 102 7.1 General Policies ...... 102 7.2 Bus Routing ...... 102 7.3 Bus Drivers ...... 103 7.4 Dismissal of Drivers ...... 104 7.5 Principal-Teacher Responsibility in Pupil Transportation ...... 104 7.6 Parent-Pupil Responsibility ...... 105 7.7 Use of School Buses by Private Groups ...... 105 7.8 Dress For Bus Drivers ...... 106 7.9 Use of Cell Phones by Bus Drivers ...... 106 Section VIII-Use of School Facilities...... 106 8.1 Principal's Responsibility ...... 106 8.2 Duties of Those Using School Facilities ...... 107 8.3 Selling and Advertising on School Property ...... 107 8.5 School Lockers ...... 107 8.6 Distribution of Publications ...... 108 8.7 Limited Open Forum (Equal Access) ...... 108 Section IX – Code of Ethics ...... 109 Section X – Health and Safety ...... 111 10.1 Communicable Disease ...... 111 10.2 Protocol for Communicable Diseases Known (not) to be Spread by Casual Contact ...... 111 10.3 Routine Procedures for Sanitation and Hygiene When Handling Body Fluids ...... 113 10.4 Drug-Free Workplace Policy ...... 116 10.5 Employee Drug and Alcohol Use and Policy for Compliance with the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991 ...... 117 10.6 Use of Tobacco Products Prohibited on School Property...... 127 10.7 Television Surveillance Cameras ...... 127 10.8 Metal Detectors ...... 127 10.9 Possession of Deadly Weapons and Firearms on Premises of Schools is Prohibited ...... 127 10.10 Parent or Guardian Liable for Damages Caused by Child...... 128 10.11 Drug Dealing ...... 128 10.12 Assault on a Teacher or Employee of the Blount County Board of Education ...... 129 10.13 Required Actions for Drugs, Alcohol, Weapons, Physical Harm, or Threatened Harm ...... 129 10.14 Law Enforcement Agencies Authorized to Make Periodic, Unannounced Visits to Schools ...... 129

10.15 Emergency Drills ...... 130 10.16 Automated External Defibrillator (AED) ...... 130 10.17 Physical Restraint and Seclusion ...... 131 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ...... 136

Section I – Board of Education

1.1 Responsibilities of the Board

The responsibility and authority to establish policies for the administration and the supervision of public schools in Blount County, with the exception of Oneonta City Schools, is vested in the Blount County Board of Education. The Board shall act as a legislative body in the determination of policies for the control, operation, maintenance, and improvement of the school system. On certain occasions the Board shall serve as a judicial body to hear complaints and appeals of administrative decisions from employees, pupils, and/or patrons.

The Code of Alabama contains a list of the powers, duties and responsibilities of the Board: 16-8-1 through 16-8-24, 16-8-28 to 16-8-32, 16-8-34 through 16-8-42, 16-10-1, Code of Alabama, 1975

Comparability Policies

In order to meet the comparability requirements of Section 1120 A © - NCLB Regulations, the Blount County Board of Education does hereby adopt the following policies and procedures.

An LEA-wide salary schedule shall be adopted and implemented for all employees of the Blount County Board of Education.

Employment practices shall be followed to ensure equivalence among schools with regard to teachers, administrators and other staff.

Curriculum materials and instructional supplies will be provided equitably to all schools within the system. Allocations for student materials, technology funds, professional development funds, library enhancement funds, and common purchase funds shall be made to all certificated school personnel (teachers, librarians, guidance counselors, assistant principals, principals, etc.) from state and/or local funds. (Revised and approved Dec. 13, 2006)

1.2 General Organization

The Board shall be composed of five members, who shall be elected to six-year terms by the qualified voters of the county. Terms are staggered so that only two members of the Board will normally be elected in any one year. No member of the Board will be an employee of said Board.

The Board of Education shall hold an annual meeting each year on the last Monday in the month of November. At this meeting the Board shall elect one of its members, each year, to serve as president and one to serve as vice-president.

The president shall preside at all meetings of the Board and shall call special meetings when required. In the absence of the president, the vice president shall preside. (Revised April 4, 2005) The Superintendent shall serve as secretary of the Board. (Revised May 1, 1989)

1.2.1 Board Member Training

Blount County Board of Education members will pursue ongoing training to develop and enhance their knowledge and effectiveness as Board members and to improve Board governance and operations in accordance with the School Board Governance Improvement Act of 2012. Training requirements shall include:

Orientation-must be completed within one year from the date a member takes office and shall include training on roles and responsibilities, finance, ethics, student and school performance, legal and personnel issues and Code of Conduct.

Each Board member shall complete six hours of training each year. These hours may be earned through state or national school board association events addressing Board governance, leadership, and operations.

Each Board member shall participate in a whole board interactive training conducted by a facilitator provided by the Alabama Association of School Boards or other State approved facilitator. Two of the required six hours of training must be earned as a whole board interactive training.

The National School Boards Association annual conference and/or the Southern Region annual meeting may count toward two hours of the total six hours of training.

(Required by the School Board Governance Improvement Act of 2012 Revised July 17, 2013)

The Board recommends the requirements of this policy be satisfied by participation in training provided by the Alabama Association of School Boards or other sources considered knowledgeable in school board governance and leadership. (Required by Act of Alabama 2009-297) Adopted March 1, 2010.

Revised May 6, 2013 (Required Board Training will include participation in:

Orientation for newly elected or appointed school board members; Training or consulting workshop for the local Board as a whole; State or national school board association event addressing Board governance or operation, or other Board member development opportunities relating to leadership development, Board governance, or Board operations.

Regular meetings of the Board of Education shall be held on the first Monday in each calendar month except for the month of December. The Board shall also meet on the last Monday in the month of November. Board meetings shall be held in the Blount County Board of Education Boardroom located in the Blount County Board of Education Office Building in the Courthouse Annex unless otherwise approved by the Board. The Board shall hold at least six regular meetings during each school year. Public notice shall be given of regular meetings.

The Board of Education shall hold a special annual public meeting each year on the first Monday in January for the purpose of giving the public an opportunity of presenting to the Board matters relating to the allotment of public school funds or any other matter relating to the administration of the public schools of the county. The time and location of such meeting shall be given public notice.

At all meetings of the Board of Education, the Board shall transact such business as shall be properly brought before it. An agenda should be prepared by the Superintendent prior to each meeting.

If the date of a regular meeting of the Board falls on a legal holiday or must be cancelled for any other reason, such meeting will be held the following Monday unless otherwise agreed upon and

announced by the Board. If a quorum is not present at a meeting, it shall be adjourned to be reconvened at the call of the Superintendent.

A majority of the members of the Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and a majority vote of the total membership is necessary for adoption of any motion or resolution.

Special meetings may be called by the president or the Superintendent on his own initiative.

A complete and accurate set of minutes of each Board meeting shall be kept by the Superintendent or a person designated by him. A copy of the minutes shall be mailed to each member following each meeting. After approval of minutes by the Board, they shall be copied in an official record book, signed by the President and the Superintendent, and shall be open to public inspection.

Any group or individual desiring to appear before the Board and be heard must give written notification to the office of the Superintendent of Education in advance of the meeting date. To be placed on the agenda for the regular meeting on the first Monday of each month, notice must be given to the Superintendent in writing by noon on the preceding Wednesday. In addition to the notice, information must be given about the matter to be discussed in order that preparation can be made by the Superintendent and the Board to hear the group or individual. (Revised May 1, 1989)

1.4 Operational Procedure

The following shall be the order of business at meetings, unless otherwise elected by the Board: Roll Call Approval of agenda Approval of minutes of previous meeting Reading of communications Hearing of delegations Superintendent's report Approval of financial statements and payment of bills Unfinished business New business Approval of personnel matters Adjournment (Revised May 4, 1981)

1.5 Audio Recording, Video Recording, Live Broadcasting, Live Telecasting and the Making of Still Photographs During Meetings of the Blount County Board of Education

The Blount County Board of Education will permit all persons in attendance at an open meeting to record the meeting through any of the following means: Tape recorder (or other “sonic” recording device) Video Camera Photographic Camera The recording of the meeting cannot disrupt or distract the conduct of the meeting. All recording devices must be set up before the meeting begins. Media may record the meeting, but live broadcasting or telecasting will be limited to before and after Board meetings.

The public and media do not have the right to record executive sessions.

The Board may adopt additional reasonable rules governing the use of recording devices during open meetings. (Revised July 21, 2005 in compliance with Act 2005-40, The Open Meetings Act)

1.6 Awards and Recognition

The Board may, upon recommendation by the Superintendent of Education, make awards and recognition to employees, students, parents, patrons, Board members, and the Superintendent for outstanding performance as an employee, outstanding academic achievement for students, and significant contributions to furthering the education of the youth of Blount County to any of those named above. The Board may expend funds to provide for the awards and recognition as provided for in the laws of the State of Alabama. (Amendment Number 4, approved in the election on November 8, 1994, amended Section 94 of the Constitution of Alabama of 1901, as amended by Amendment No. 112. The applicable subsection reads as follows: (b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a), local school boards of education may expend public funds for the recognition of significant contributions to education in Alabama and to promote educational excellence by students, faculty, staff, and the public. Recognition shall be in the form of trophies, plaques, academic banquets, and other honors that promote academic excellence in the public schools of Alabama and recognize special deeds that strengthen public education in Alabama.

(Added May 1, 1995)

Section II - Administration

2.1 Superintendent

The Superintendent is elected for a term of four years by the qualified voters of Blount County. The Code of Alabama contains a list of the powers, duties and responsibilities of the Superintendent. 16- 9-1 through 16-9-2, 16-9-4 through 16-9-34, 16-8-24 through 16-8-27, Code of Alabama, 1975.

The Superintendent may delegate, with the approval of the Board, certain administrative authority and responsibilities to principals and other administrators. He may, with approval of the Board, organize his staff, create and fill positions, and assign duties and responsibilities. Administrative officers are responsible directly or indirectly to the Superintendent.

2.2 Assistant Superintendent

The Assistant Superintendent functions in a general administrative and supervisory capacity for the Superintendent. He is the coordinator and supervisor of the Superintendent's office staff. His role calls for directing and coordinating staff activities in such a way as to free the Superintendent from routine details so that the Superintendent may devote his energy to other pressing problems that merit his attention.

2.3 Supervisor of Transportation

The Supervisor of Transportation is responsible to the Superintendent for the operation of the pupil transportation program. He exercises supervision over personnel in his department, including the bus drivers. He is responsible for the safe and economical operation of the transportation program.

He should provide leadership and service in the following areas: in-service transportation programs, regular inspection of buses and other transportation items, bus routes and stops according to Board policy and state law, lists of duties and responsibilities for transportation personnel, specifications for purchase of school buses and a schedule for replacement of obsolete buses, specifications for the purchase of gasoline, oil, lubricants, tires and batteries, and other parts and materials, and maintenance of adequate transportation records and reports as required by local policy or state

regulation. He makes recommendations for the employment, assignments, salary, and dismissal for personnel assigned to his department and for bus drivers.

2.4 Principals

The principal, as a member of the administrative staff of the school system, has specific responsibilities for his/her assigned school. As the administrator of the school, he/she shall give direction, supervision and leadership to the entire school program. The principal is responsible for business administration, maintenance and operation of the school plant, curriculum development, improvement of instruction, personnel administration, school community relations, and auxiliary services such as pupil transportation and the school lunch program.

Beginning with the 2009-2010 school year, all principals will implement the Educate Alabama Evaluation Program following all procedures as outlined in the program.

(Revised May 4, 1981) (Revised June 11, 1979)

Principals shall be responsible to the Superintendent for those functions where administrative responsibility and authority have been delegated to them.

Beginning with the 2012-2013 school year, all principals, directors, assistant principals, and central office administrators will be evaluated using the State Lead Alabama Evaluation Program.

(Revised August 6, 2012) (Revised May 1, 1989)

2.5 Assistant Principal

The Assistant Principal is a member of a local school administrative staff and is responsible to the principal. He/she will assist the principal in the supervision and coordination of the school program with specific duties being assigned by the principal. The Board requests that the assistant principal be given the major responsibility for student discipline.

With the approval of the principal, an assistant principal shall make classroom observations and complete reports of such observations under the same provisions as listed in policy number 2.4.

(Revised May 1, 1989) (Revised June 11, 1979)

2.6 County Career Technical Program (A) Relationship among teachers, principals, and career technical teachers

The career technical teachers located at the high school are under the direct supervision of the high school principal. The administrative policies, communication from the Board, assignments of daily work, and instructional schedules will reach the teachers through the principal. The principal and career technical teacher are to consult with the career technical director before initiating new procedures, plans or activities in or related to career technical programs in the high schools. The career technical director will share any program evaluation information with the principal at the high school where the program is located. The career technical director as well as the principal shall have the responsibility of observing career technical teachers and programs to determine that they are in compliance with The Blount County Board of Education, State of Alabama, and applicable federal policies, guidelines and laws.

Career technical teachers located at Blount County Career Technical Center are under the direct supervision of the Center Director. The administrative policies, communication from the Board, assignments of daily work, and instructional schedules will reach the teacher through the Blount County Career Technical Center Director. (Added May 2, 1983)(Revised January 3, 2005)

Section III - The Instructional Program

3.0 Philosophy and Mission

Mission Statement:

The mission of the Blount County Board of Education is to create lifelong learners by providing quality education and meeting the needs of all students.

The Board recognizes that no one philosophy of education can express the sentiments or beliefs of all teaching personnel. Generally, however, education is perceived as a process of growth and includes the mental, moral, emotional, physical, social and spiritual aspects of the individual. Each child is seen as a unique person who possesses certain potentials, needs, aspirations and interests. As each pupil is different, it is the purpose of education to provide him with different experiences in school which will enable him to achieve his maximum potential so that he may be a useful and productive member of society.

It is understood that though all children will not learn all things equally well, all should have an equal opportunity in the pursuit of education; thus, the Board will attempt to balance its program to provide for the varied interests and needs of the pupils of the schools.

The Board accepts the conclusion that the education of children is a comprehensive program which must be undertaken in cooperation with other institutions of society and will seek to establish and maintain strong ties with parents and community programs. (Added June 12, 2009) (Revised May 1, 1989) (Added August 6, 1984)

3.1 Curriculum

The course of study for the individual shall be determined by following the guidelines established by the Alabama Course of Study and the Blount County Curriculum Guide, within the limitations of the individual’s school’s offerings.(1) The primary source of instructional standards for the Blount County School system shall be the Alabama Course of Study in the various subjects and the Blount County Curriculum Guide. These are to be utilized throughout the instructional process, including lesson planning, implementation, presentation, and evaluation. The Blount County Curriculum Guide is provided to guide instruction in efforts to achieve the Blount County Board of Education Mission Statement and Student Goals. The purpose of the Guide is to assist in providing the highest quality educational program for students. The Guide shall be a usable and flexible tool to assist in offering a coordinated educational program based on the Alabama Course of Study. Other instructional content sources will be the assessment included in the Alabama Assessment Program and Assessment Correlations. The system may utilize the Blount County curriculum Committee and/or the System Improvement committee to establish priorities for curriculum and instruction. (2)

(2) (Revised April 4, 2005) (1)(Revised June 14, 2001)

3.3 Field Trips

The Board recognizes that carefully planned and conducted field trips may provide valuable educational experiences for students. However, the protection of students requires that such field trips be conducted only after the Board has been consulted and given its approval to the plan. Only field trips that are educational in nature will be approved.

Requests for field trips must be submitted on the Board approved form to the principal 10 days prior to the next Board meeting. If approved by the principal, the request should be submitted to the Superintendent for Board consideration by Wednesday at noon preceding a regularly scheduled Monday Board meeting.

All requests for overnight trips including athletics, band, etc. will be considered by the Board on a case by case basis. Requests for overnight trips should be submitted to the Superintendent 90 days prior to the trip. In cases where this is not possible, the request should be submitted as much in advance as possible. The Superintendent may require the trip sponsor to present to the Board detailed plans for transportation, lodging, itineraries, provisions for chaperones, parental permissions and provisions for medical conditions or special needs.

All students must have written permission signed by their parents or guardians on file with school officials prior to departing on a school-sponsored educational field trip and on athletic/band trips. NOTE: Educational programs and activities involving a series of trips where the times and dates of the trips are known in advance, such as football, basketball, scholar’s bowl, band, etc. may submit one (1) Parental Permission Form to cover the series of trips associated with the games/events.

Blanket permission is granted for students to take field trips that are an integral part of the instructional program of the classes for which they are enrolled, eleventh and twelfth grade students participating in the annual College Day program, students participating in the Blount County-Oneonta Christmas Parade and students participating in the annual Blount County Career Technical Center visitation provided that all such trips have the prior approval of the school principal.

It is recommended that field trips begin after the school day begins and end before school dismisses when Board owned school buses are used for transportation. Trips may begin earlier and end later than school hours when other means of transportation, such as chartered buses are used or advanced arrangements are made and approved by the Director of Transportation.

Classes and organizations are allowed one field trip per year; however students should be limited to a total of two field trips per year. (Students are permitted to take in-county field trips in addition to the trips provided for above in order to take advantage of Blount County community resources. These trips do not require the approval of the Board but do require the approval of the principal.)

Students in the school band are permitted no more than four Saturday competition trips, trips to Alabama Band Masters Competition, and one out of state trip provided that it is to one of the contiguous states except for prestigious events in any state.

Students shall be expected to exhibit good behavior and shall be subject to the same code of conduct and dress code that is applicable to regular classroom activities.

(Revised September 7, 2004) (Revised May 15, 1997) (Revised May 1, 1995) (Revised June 8, 1993) (Revised May 3, 1993) (Revised May 1, 1989) (Revised May 4, 1987)

3.4 Textbooks

All textbooks issued that are the property of the State of Alabama and the Blount County Board of Education shall be retained for normal use only during the period pupils are engaged in the courses of study for which the textbooks are selected.

Parents and pupils must accept liability for any loss, abuse or damage in excess of that which would result from normal use.

Defective new textbooks should be reported to the county textbook coordinator or Assistant Superintendent.

When inventories are requested, an accurate accounting of books should be made. Textbooks, textbook records and inventories are subject to review at any time by the principal or a representative from the Central Office.

The Textbook Adoption Committee shall be composed of teachers and Board employees holding a valid Alabama teacher's certificate and lay persons residing in Blount County. Each school shall have representation from lower elementary, upper elementary, junior high and senior high grades depending on grade levels included in the school and subject areas being considered for adoption. Five committee members shall be lay persons with each district being represented. Committee members shall serve one-year terms beginning July 1 and expiring June 30. Each year, the Technology Committee will serve as a sub-committee with the authority to make recommendations to the Board for adoption in the area of Technology. The adoption of textbooks shall be in compliance with the Code of Alabama and the policies of the State Board of Education. (Revised June 14, 2001)

Teachers should consult with the principal concerning the amount to be charged for lost or damaged books. The principal's office must issue a receipt for the amount collected. This money must then be sent to the Superintendent's office where it will be deposited in an account for textbooks. (Revised May 3, 1982)

Textbooks that are no longer needed and have been removed from the local textbook inventory may be sold to used textbook dealers. All money received from the sale of textbooks will be deposited in the textbook account and may only be used for the purpose of purchasing textbooks. (Added April 4, 2005)

A sub-committee shall be designated by the textbook coordinator when necessary to make recommendations to the Board for adoption of textbooks required for ACCESS courses. (Revised May 4, 2009)

3.5 Library Committee

The principal of each school shall appoint each September 1, a committee, of which he may be a member, composed of a minimum of three and a maximum of seven teachers including at least one school librarian and two parents of students in attendance at the school for the purpose of reviewing books and instructional materials that are donated, purchased, or otherwise received by the library or the school including the books and instructional materials already in use in the library and school. This committee shall elect its chairperson each September. This committee shall have the determining authority in rejecting or accepting materials.

This committee shall review any book or instructional material that has been designated by written and signed statements by parents to be objectionable.

The complaint must give the title and description of the book or item and state specifically the reason for the objection, be signed by the parent or parents with the address for each. The principal will receive such written complaints and make recommendations immediately to the committee for action. The review and determination of the materials challenged as objectionable must be made within thirty days after receipt of the written complaint.

The decision of the Library Committee may be appealed within ten days by the parent or parents who filed the complaint by giving written notice to the Superintendent of Education. The Board of Education shall consider the appeal of the Library Committee's decision at its next scheduled meeting and render a decision within 45 days.

(1) The Blount County Board of Education approves the use of all K-12 recommended Common Core Text Exemplars for classroom instruction. (1) (Revised/approved April 4, 2011) (Revised May 2, 1994)

3.6 Guest Speakers

School principals and teachers are encouraged to invite guest speakers to schools to address groups of students. Controversial speakers and those promoting a certain religious belief or idea are not to be allowed to speak in schools during school hours. The Board and/or Superintendent shall have the authority to take whatever action is necessary to enforce this policy. (Added May 4, 1981)

3.7 Homework

The Board recognizes that homework should be meaningful and reasonable. It should not be a substitute for teaching but should provide reinforcement, practical application, and enrichment of what has been taught. Consideration should be given to the time involved in completing the assignment. No homework assignment should be made that does not directly support a clearly identified instructional objective.

The Board, however, encourages the use of reasonable homework assignments that both support instructional objectives and expand the scope of instruction limited by the constraints placed on classroom teaching.

Assignments should be commensurate with the resources available.

Teachers in a departmentalized setting should coordinate homework assignments for the students they teach. (Added August 6, 1984) 3.8 Parent Conferences

The Board requires that at least once each school year every classroom teacher schedule a conference with the parents and/or guardian of each student for which that teacher is responsible. Provided the parents and/or guardian do not attend the scheduled conference, the teacher must make documentation of the notice of the scheduled conference.

The purposes of these parent-teacher conferences are to provide the teacher an opportunity to advise parents of the academic progress of each student and to discuss with the parents suggested strategies which the parents can implement in supporting the teacher's instructions.

When possible, parent-teacher conferences should be coordinated with PTSA/PTSO meetings in order to afford parents an opportunity to meet with several teachers, if necessary.

Each teacher should develop written documentation of each parent conference and the objectives during the conference. A copy of such documentation should be maintained for a minimum of three years within each school's office.

Guidance counselors will be responsible for helping to conduct and coordinate parent conferences for high school students.

The student's planned program of studies will be discussed during these parent conferences.

The overall program of studies developed prior to entry into the ninth grade should reflect and give specifications to the goals and objectives by identifying and describing types of courses, experiences, and related activities to be engaged in by the student. Based on the four-year planned program of studies, a specific schedule of courses and activities should be prepared for each school year. Each year the program of studies should be modified if necessary in accordance with changes in the student's goals and objectives.

(Added August 6, 1984)

3.9 Remedial Program

The Board, in compliance with State Department of Education regulations, shall provide an individualized remedial program of instruction for each student who fails to demonstrate acquisition of predetermined levels of knowledge and skills appropriate for the expected performance level of that particular student. The Board will, dependent upon available financial resources, assign the number of teachers and other resources necessary to improve the performance of each student to this individual level of expectance. (Added August 6, 1984) 3.10 Grading Periods for Schools

Grading periods (report card distribution) for Blount County Schools shall be every (9) weeks. Students shall be given a deficiency report at 4 ½ weeks per grading period, minimum.

(Revised and approved by the Board June 10, 2002)

3.11 Summer School Organization

Certified Personnel Holding Valid Alabama Certificate(s).

A. The summer school must be administered by a certified principal Each teacher in an approved summer school must hold a degree, a valid Alabama certificate, and be certified in each subject taught as required in regular session. It is urged that the teacher assigned to summer school have recent teaching experience in the subject assigned.

Authorization of Summer School The public summer school must be authorized by the Blount County Board of Education The Superintendent and the principal of the school must assume responsibility for organizing the school and for reporting it to the State Department of Education. Classes must meet in the school building or on the school campus as designated by the Blount County Board of Education. A definite schedule must be followed.

Summer school instruction shall be limited to students for make-up work and enrichment activities.

A. Required courses shall not be available to a student enrolled in a summer school program unless: 1. That student has already failed that course(s), and/or

2. It is necessary that the planned course which is part of the student's approved program of study be taken during the summer in order for the student to take another course during the regular scholastic year 3. A student should not be enrolled in summer school solely for the purpose of reducing his/her class load for the ensuing scholastic school year(s) 4. Teachers of the host summer school will have the option of offering a non-graded enrichment program concurrent to the regular summer school program. 6. For high schools granting credit. A. The number of minutes actually spent in class work during the regular session will determine the amount of credit granted for any course attempted during summer school. 1. Time requirements governing one unit of credit during the summer session will be a minimum of 140 clock hours. The time required for a repeated subject shall be the same as that required for a new subject Summer School Credits Applied Toward High School Graduation A. A student shall earn no more than two units of credit to be applied toward high school graduation during one summer

B. A student shall earn no more than a total of six units of credit in summer terms to be applied toward high school graduation except on approval of the Blount County Board of Education.

Student attendance in summer school other than the school where regularly enrolled. A. A student desiring to do summer school work in a school other than that in which he/she is regularly enrolled must obtain written permission from his/her principal and parent(s) (guardian). B. The student and his/her parent(s)/ guardian(s) are to be held responsible for errors in subjects unless the above policy is followed. Any exception to the above policies numbered 1 through 8 will be granted only by the State Superintendent of Education upon written request of the local superintendent with submission of sufficient documentation to warrant approval. (Revised May 3, 1993) (Adopted August 5, 1985)

3.13 High School Students Earning Credit from Post-secondary Institutions-Dual Enrollment

The Board believes additional educational opportunities should be offered to high school juniors and seniors.

This policy allows certain high school students to enroll in college level courses at a participating post-secondary institution to dually earn credits for a high school diploma and/or post- secondary degree.

Student Eligibility

1. The student must have completed the 9th grade year, be in grades 10, 11 or 12 or have an exception granted by the participating post-secondary institution upon the recommendation of the student's principal and Superintendent and in accordance with Alabama Administrative Code 290-8- 9.12 regarding gifted and talented students. (Revised and Approved May 6, 2013) (Revised August 11, 2014 )

(a) The student must have a "B" average, as defined by local board of education policy, in completed high school courses. The student must have written approval of the appropriate principal and the local Superintendent of Education. Student success in Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment is dependent upon both academic

readiness and social maturity. Approval from the principal and Superintendent indicates that the student has demonstrated both. The student must meet the entrance requirements established by the participating college/post- secondary institution.

In addition to these eligibility requirements, students must follow all guidelines and agreements as set forth in the Dual Enrollment Agreement between the individual post-secondary institution and the Blount County Board of Education.

(Revised May 20, 1999)

3.15 On-Line Course Guidelines

Students at grade levels 9-12 may participate in online courses for credit, upon the approval of the principal and the superintendent.

(1)The Blount County Board of Education will adhere to all ACCESS Distance Learning policies.

Credit Restrictions: On-line courses used to satisfy credit for required courses must contain all required content identified in Alabama courses of study or must be supplemented. A total of six credits may be earned through on-line courses, no more than one in each of the four core content areas, during grades 9-12. The on-line course must warrant 140 clock hours of instruction if one credit is to be earned and 70 clock hours if one-half credit is to be earned. On-line courses are to be included in calculating the total credits allowed (10) that a student can earn during the school year, including summer school.

Course Approval: On-line course delivery for courses fulfilling the requirement of four credits per core content must be from institutions accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges, or Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Courses taken through the (1)ACCESS Distance Learning are submitted to the State Department of Education by the (1)ACCESS Distance Learning School for approval. A “Verification Form” is not needed for courses from the Access Distance Learning Courses”. The Superintendent must approve any “Verification Forms” prior to submission to the State Department of Education.

ACCOUNTABILITY FOR PROGRAM INTEGRITY/STUDENT WORK/EVALUATION

Time and Place. All scheduled lessons and on-line projects/lab activities are to be completed in an assigned classroom during normal school hours, but students may be permitted to make-up work and to complete on-line assignments requiring research beyond the scheduled class period. All on-line courses must warrant 140 clock hours of instruction for one credit and 70 clock hours of instruction for one-half credit. Equipment and Technical Assistance. The system is responsible for resolving local technology issue requirements. The school must provide the appropriate technology required for delivery of the on-line course, adequate technical assistance to students, and a facilitator to assist students with minor technological problems. C Facilitating and Monitoring The school will assure the integrity of students’ work by providing an adult facilitator to supervise students during their on-line class period. The facilitator must

successfully complete professional training in on-line methodology and technical aspects of web- based instruction, including safety and lab procedures, if applicable. D. Assessment and Grades Providers of on-line courses must supply a final grade for each student that is based on assessment by the on-line teacher of the student’s work. On-line courses must not require the school to provide any supplemental instruction or assessment.

REQUIREMENTS FOR FACILITATORS

Facilitators are required for a school to participate in on-line courses. Facilitators must be an adult with professional training in on-line methodology and technical aspects of such web-based instruction, including safety and lab procedures, if applicable. If at all possible, facilitators should have a degree and/or certification in the specific content area or in a related field.

REQUIREMENTS FOR ON-LINE TEACHERS Teachers who interact with students on-line to deliver instruction must meet background check requirements and be certified teachers in Alabama or another state, or must be faculty members of an accredited institution of higher education possessing expertise in the specific content area. Teachers must have participated in professional development provided by the institution offering the course. Teachers for the (1) Access Distance Learning High School meet this requirement. (1) (Revised March, 2011) (Adopted and approved April 4, 2005)

Section IV - Personnel

4.1 Employment Employees will be selected by the Board on the recommendation of the Superintendent. Merit, as judged by all pertinent standards of quality and character, will be the main criterion for the selection of employees.

4.1.1 Procedure a. State law requires posting all local job positions (new or being vacated). Job positions will be posted in local schools, on the Board of Education bulletin board and on the Blount County Board of Education website (www.blountboe.net). Certified and support/classified positions will also be posted in Teach in Alabama and may be accessed through the blountboe.net website. All applicants must apply through Teach in Alabama. b. The employment of the candidate should be a cooperative procedure between the Superintendent, the candidate, and the principal of the school where the employee is being placed. c. Employment will be made as objectively as possible. Interviews, recommendations, previous experience, and references should be noted in all cases of employment. (Revised May 5, 1986) (Revised May 10, 2017)

4.1.2 Employees Subject To Criminal Records Background Check All employees and prospective employees of the Board are required to complete a background clearance through the State Department of Education, as required by the Alabama Child Protection Act of 1999 outlined in Alabama Administrative Code 290-3-2-.01(5). Only the Superintendent and his designee(s) will have access to the background information. (Revised July 26, 2005). Prospective employees will have any information regarding criminal, civil and traffic cases reviewed prior to employment and at any time thereafter. Employees found to have a criminal record will have their record reviewed by the Superintendent for appropriate disposition.

(Added May 1, 1995)

4.1.3 Qualifications of Certified Personnel a. A candidate seeking employment in Blount County must have a minimum of four years' preparation for teaching and a valid Alabama teacher's certificate except vocational education personnel who shall meet Alabama certification requirements for their respective vocational education assignment. b. No person shall be denied employment on the basis of race, color, handicap, sex, religion, creed, national origin, or age. c. Other things being equal, the Superintendent will give preference to the candidate who has procured the more advanced preparation or experience. 4.1.4 Terms of Employment for Certified Personnel a. Teachers are approved for employment by the Board of Education and are subject to the terms and conditions of the Students First Act effective July 1, 2011. b. Teachers shall attain tenure upon the completion of three complete, consecutive school years of full-time employment as a teacher with the same employer unless the governing board approves and issues written notice of termination to the teacher on or before the last day of the teacher's third consecutive, complete school year of employment. c. For purposes of this act, a probationary teacher whose employment or reemployment is effective prior to October 1 of the school year and who completes the school year shall be deemed to have served a complete school year. d. No tenured teacher shall be permitted to terminate his or her employment within 30 calendar days before the first day of the next school term for students. (Revised August 6, 2012) 4.1.5 Terms of Employment for Paraprofessional Personnel Teacher aides will be employed by the Board upon the recommendation of the principal and the Superintendent. Teacher aides must receive background clearance through the Alabama State Department of Education. Applicants for instructional aides in Title I schools must meet the “No Child Left Behind” requirements: 1. Non-degree

a) Successfully complete at least two years (48 semester hours or 72 quarter hours) of study at an institute of higher education

b) Pass Workkeys Assessment

2. Associates degree

Must complete an associate’s degree or 64 semester hours or 96 quarter hours of coursework documented on an official transcript from an accredited institute of higher education (Revised July 26, 2005) (Revised May 10, 2017)

4.1.6 Terms of Employment for Nonprofessional personnel Nonprofessional school employees, including lunchroom personnel and custodians will be employed by the Board upon the recommendation of the principal and the Superintendent. (Revised July 26, 2005) 4.1.7 Nepotism Effective September 1, 2015 in accordance with Act 2015-486, no person in an administrative or supervisory capacity may recommend a relative for a position where he/she will be the direct supervisor. A relative is defined as a spouse, a dependent, an adult child or his or her spouse, a parent, a spouse’s parent, or a sibling or his or her spouse in Alabama Code Section 16-22-15.1. This policy does not prohibit relatives from working in the same district, or even in the same school as long as procedures outlined in the law are followed pertaining to hiring, supervising, and evaluating those employees. A person may apply for and be hired into a position where a relative would be in the applicant’s chain of command if hired but would not be the applicant’s immediate supervisor,

made recommendation, cast no vote, and otherwise had no direct or indirect involvement concerning the employee’s hiring. (Revised May 10, 2017)

4.2 Determination of a year's experience An employee whose full-time employment is effective prior to October 1 of the school year and who completes the school year shall be deemed to have served a complete school year for purposes of tenure or earning non-probationary status based on the Students First Act. Employees advance to the next experience step of the salary schedule on the anniversary date of employment. (Revised May 10, 2017)

4.3 General Requirements Employees shall be directly responsible to the principal and/or direct supervisor. They should familiarize themselves with all Board rules and regulations. The Superintendent and the principals will observe and enforce such rules and regulations. Employees are expected to attend all meetings to which they are called by the Superintendent or the principal and to keep accurate records and make such reports as required by the principal and/or Superintendent. Punctuality and regularity are expected of employees in attending classes, meetings, conferences, and in keeping other school appointments. (Revised May 10, 2017)

4.4 Teacher Assignments Specific assignments of teachers to schools are made by the Superintendent. Principals will make assignments in schools. New teachers and continuing teachers should be notified by the principal of their specific assignments as soon as possible. Each principal will hold a faculty meeting prior to the opening of school each year. New teachers will be oriented by the principal to the use of educational facilities in the school, specific school duties and schedules prior to the opening of school. Exceptional education teachers should be oriented to Blount County Special Education procedures including the following: 1. Use of Special Education Tracking System 2. Writing of individual education plans 3. Usage of tests: procedures, requirements and time periods, an introduction to the types of tests used in each school, and familiarization with testing permission forms (Revised July 26, 2005) (Amended May 6, 1985) 4.5 Teacher Responsibilities Teachers shall be in their homerooms or assigned areas fifteen minutes before school starts and fifteen minutes after classes have been dismissed for the day. Teachers shall be responsible for (1) development of good character and desirable attitudes among pupils, (2) proper protection and care of textbooks, equipment, supplies, and the school property, and (3) maintenance of discipline and good order in classes, school buildings and grounds. A teacher should expect to perform the following duties as part of his/her contractual obligations: A. Elementary school 1. Organize and carry through the activities of the class/attendance assigned to him/her for successful teaching 2. Sponsor any clubs, which usually meets on school time, if requested. 3. Attend scheduled faculty and departmental meetings and meetings of parent groups. 4. Take assigned turn at lunchroom duty and study hall duty 5. Do his/her share of committee work for the welfare of the school and school system. B. Secondary school

1. Have classroom responsibility a minimum of five periods per day. This involves daily preparation, checking homework, and marking papers. 2. Supervise study halls and lunchroom if requested 3. Take charge of homeroom/attendance or perform equivalent services designated by the principal 4. Sponsor one or more club meetings on school time, if requested. 5. Attend regularly scheduled faculty and departmental meetings and meetings of parent groups. 6. Serve on committees and other special projects for the welfare of the school and profession.

In all professional and personal relations, teachers shall be held in observance of a course of conduct consistent with the ethics of the teaching profession.

4.5.1 Professional Development All professional employees are required to have a professional learning plan on file each year using the on-line component of their Educator Effectiveness Model, Educate Alabama or Lead Alabama. All professional employees must complete a minimum of 120 clock hours of professional development or six semester hours of college credit as required by SACS during each five years of employment. Employees are encouraged to participate in professional development opportunities beyond the minimum requirement. (Revised August 6, 2012) Beginning in 1998-1999, professional employees new to the Blount County School System will participate in an induction program each of the non-tenured years as designated by the Superintendent. (Revised May 20, 1999)

4.6 Attendance Punctual, regular attendance is an essential job function of every job and position, and employees are expected to report to work when scheduled to work and remain at work each working day. Employees who must be away from work should notify the principal and/or direct supervisor and have his/her approval. In the event the employee is unable to acquire a substitute if necessary, the principal shall make arrangements. (Revised May 10, 2017)

4.7 Absences Except as otherwise authorized under Board policy, employees may be absent from work only in the following circumstances: a. Sick leave: Illness, injury, birth or adoption, or other qualifying reason for sick leave as defined in the Alabama Code 16-1-18.1;

b. Personal leave;

c. Family Medical Leave as defined by the United States Department of Labor;

d. Vacation leave;

e. Professional leave;

f. Military leave;

g. Court leave;

h. On-the-job injury leave;

i. Other unpaid leave that is specifically approved by the Board upon a showing of substantial hardship or extraordinary circumstances.

Employees who know in advance that they will be absent from work must notify the Board of the expected absence in accordance with procedures specified by the Superintendent or the Board. In the event of an emergency or incapacity that makes advance notice impractical, employees must notify the Board of their absence as early as possible. Except as otherwise provided or permitted, an employee who is absent from work without approved leave will be considered absent without leave in violation of Board policy and subject to appropriate disciplinary measures. Employees who are approved for paid leave or absences will be paid at the regular daily rate of pay; however, a day of paid leave or absence will not be counted as a day worked for the purposes of computing overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Pay will be reduced on a pro rata basis for leaves or absences not covered by sick, vacation, personal, or other appropriate form of paid leave. The continuation of benefits during an approved absence is subject to the provisions of the particular benefit policy or plan. Persons absent from work due to surgery, contagious disease or illness serious enough for extended physician's care must present a release from their physician upon return to the job. (Revised May 10, 2017)

4.7.1 Sick Leave Employees shall earn sick leave according to State law. Sick leave may be used in accordance with State law and Alabama State Board of Education policy and guidelines. (ALA Code. § 16-1-18.1) Sick leave is earned at the rate of one day per scholastic month worked (9 days per year for teachers in 187-day contracts). An employee must work a majority of the days in a pay period or 10 days whichever is less. Sick leave will not be granted in advance of being earned. Sick leave may be taken in half-day increments. Sick leave will accrue when an employee is actually working or on authorized leave with pay. (Based on interpretation by State Supt. Teague of State Board of Ed. resolution of Jan. 17, 1978. Teague's interpretation is dated April 17, 1986.) Effective August 1, 2001, in compliance with Act No. 2001-671, maximum sick leave accumulation is unlimited. Accumulated sick leave will convert to retirement credit for Tier I retirement status. (Revised May 10, 2017) (Revised July, 2006) (Revised June 5, 1989)

Sick leave shall not be granted for any reason other than those provided for in State law or State Board of Education regulations: a. Personal illness or doctor's quarantine, b. Incapacitating personal injury, c. Attendance upon an ill member of the employee's immediate family (parent, spouse, child, foster child currently in the care and custody of the employee, sibling); or an individual with a close personal tie, d. Death in the family of the employee (parent, spouse, child, sibling, parent-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, nephew, niece, grandchild, grandparent, uncle, or aunt). Three days of sick or personal leave may be granted for a death in the immediate family; additional leave may be requested by the employee through the principal/supervisor, e. Death, injury, or sickness of another person who has unusually strong personal ties to the employee, such as a person who stood in loco parentis. Certification – Employees may be required to certify that sick leave was used for one of the reasons provided in state law. If the employee’s principal or supervisor has probable cause to believe that an employee has abused or misused sick leave, a physician’s statement verifying the existence and nature of the illness or medical condition may be required by the Board. Abuse of sick leave may subject the employee to disciplinary action. (Revised May 10, 2017)

4.7.2 Sick Leave Bank The Board, upon request of a minimum of ten percent (10%) of its full-time certificated and full-time support personnel, may at its discretion establish a sick leave bank for such personnel. (1) The plan, if established, shall allow each employee to deposit into the bank an equal number of his/her earned sick leave days not to exceed five (5) days. These days shall be available for loan to any other participating professional employee whose sick leave has been exhausted. The accounting and administration of the sick leave bank shall be the responsibility of the Board. Proposed rules and regulations for the operation of the sick leave bank shall be developed by an elected committee composed of five members (one appointed Board representative, two support employees, two certificated employees). Vacancies on the committee shall be elected by secret ballot from the representative parties. The term of office shall be one year. No elected representative shall serve for a term longer than five years. These terms are to be staggered to ensure expertise on the committee at all times. One certificated employee and one support employee will be selected each year. (2) The following minimum regulations will apply to the sick leave bank: (a) No employee shall be allowed to owe more than fifteen (15) days to the sick leave bank, (3) unless over 50% of the participating members of the bank vote to extend said limit. (b) Application for sick leave loans shall be developed by the committee. (c) Upon the resignation or other termination of an employee who has an outstanding loan of sick leave days, said value of loan shall be deducted from the final paycheck and at the employee’s daily rate of pay. (d) A contributing employee to the program is allowed to accumulate unlimited days. (Section 16-1- 18-1). (4) (e) Participation in the sick leave bank shall at all times be voluntary on the part of the employee. (f) Any alleged abuse of the use of the sick leave shall be investigated by the committee and, on a finding of wrongdoing, the employee shall repay all of the sick leave credits drawn from the sick leave bank and be subject to other appropriate disciplinary action as determined by the Board. Employees, at their discretion, may donate a specific number of days to the sick leave bank to be designated for a specific employee who is suffering a catastrophic illness as recognized and defined by the State Board of Education and approved by the Blount County Board of Education. Before sick leave days for a catastrophic illness may be donated, the employee who is to receive such days shall have exhausted all personal and sick leave days and shall have borrowed 15 days from the sick leave bank (5). Donated days shall become available for use by the particular employee who shall not be required to repay the days. Any employee who donates sick leave days to the sick leave bank for a particular employee suffering from a catastrophic illness shall be made to understand that such donated days are not to be recovered or returned to the donor; however, if a particular employee does not require all of the days donated to the employee's credit, the days shall revert to the credit of those employees who donated the days in accordance with the guidelines adopted by the sick leave bank committee. No employee may donate more than 30 sick leave days, except as allowed by state law, to the sick leave bank for the catastrophic sick leave of any one employee. A sick leave bank is authorized to donate sick leave days to another sick leave bank for use by a particular employee who is suffering a catastrophic illness. (Sick Leave Bank Policy added May 2, 1994) (1-5) Revised April, 2004

4.7.2 Personal Leave Employees may be granted up to five days of personal leave in one year. The two days provided by the state must be taken prior to the days provided by the school system. Three additional days will be granted with the cost of a substitute deducted from the employee's pay for each day of the third, fourth, and fifth day of personal leave used. Such leave must be requested in writing in advance and granting of such leave is discretionary with the principal or immediate supervisor of the employee. Personal leave days do not accumulate from year to year. (2) Unused personal leave shall convert to sick leave at the end of each scholastic year. Personal leave may be taken in half-day increments. (Revised July 26, 2005) (Revised June 1, 1992)

No employee, as a condition to receive personal leave, shall be required to divulge his/her reasons for requesting such leave. Such personal leave must be requested in writing in advance and granting of such leave is discretionary with the principal or immediate supervisor of the employee. (Revised June 1, 1992) (Revised June 5, 1989)

4.7.4 Vacation Policy for Twelve Month Employees Employees shall be entitled to one week (5 days) of vacation after completing one year of employment. Employees having completed two through nine years will be entitled to two weeks (10 days) of vacation each year. Employees having completed ten years of employment will be entitled to three weeks (15 days) of vacation. Employees coming from a nine, ten or eleven month position with Blount County Schools, may use their previous years of employment to determine the number of vacation days to which they are entitled. These vacation days will be available after completion of one year in the twelve-month position. The available days will be prorated from the completion of one year until July 1. The employee must work a minimum of seventy-five percent of the year in order to qualify for vacation time on July 1 of any year. If an employee has worked less than seventy-five percent of the year, the vacation time will be prorated and approved by the Superintendent. Days may be taken beginning July 1 and ending June 30 of the following year. Employees who do not use vacation days during this period will forfeit the unused days. Only one week (five workdays) of vacation time may be taken during the time that school is in session, except with the written approval of the immediate supervisor and the Superintendent. Employees must schedule their vacation in advance with the approval of their immediate supervisor. (Revised April 6, 2015) (Revised April 4, 2005) (Revised May 20, 1999) (Revised May 15, 1997) (Revised May 3, 1993) (Revised May 4, 1987)

4.7.5 Professional Development/Field Trip/Activity Upon written request on the completed Professional Development/Field Trip/Activity request form from the teacher/employee and the request of the principal ten (10) days prior to the event or requested day(s), the Superintendent may grant Professional Development/Field Trip/Activity days with pay, in order that teachers/staff may attend professional development activities, field trips, school-related activities or other programs involving improvement of instruction. (Revised July 24, 2013)

4.7.6 Military Leave Employees who are members of the Alabama National Guard are required by the laws of the State of Alabama to be paid their regular salaries by the Blount County Board of Education for up to 21 days per calendar year when they are ordered to duty by a commanding officer. Employees must request approval for military leave by sending a written request along with a copy of the official orders duly signed by a commanding officer to the Superintendent of Education prior to the effective date of the leave days (except in times of emergency when time does not permit prior notice, the request must then be made as soon as possible). The Superintendent shall review and approve or deny such requests based upon whether such requests meet the requirements of this policy and the laws of the State of Alabama. (Revised May 7, 1990)

4.7.7 Sabbatical Leave Teachers who have taught fifteen consecutive years in the Blount County School System shall be entitled to take a one year leave of absence without pay provided that the request for the leave approval is presented to the Superintendent of Education for presentation to the Board of Education a minimum of 60 calendar days prior to the beginning of the school year. (Revised May 7, 1990)

4.7.8 Court Leave Permanent and full-time employees are entitled to regular compensation while performing jury duty (ALA. CODE § 12-16-8) or when the employee is summoned under subpoena or other legal requirement to testify at trial in a court of law for school related purposes. Paid leave is not authorized for employees to meet with attorneys, to attend depositions, or to otherwise prepare for legal proceedings unless the presence of the employee is requested by the Board. Any employee who has received a summons to report for jury duty shall on the next day he/she is engaged in his/her employment exhibit the summons to his/her immediate superior and the employee shall thereupon be excused from his/her employment for the day or days required to serve as juror in any court created by the Constitutions of the United States or the State of Alabama or the laws of the United States or the State of Alabama. Notwithstanding the excused absences as herein provided, any full-time employee shall be entitled to his usual compensation received from such employment. The Board shall not discharge any employee solely because he serves on any jury empaneled under any state or federal statute provided the employee reports for work as soon as is reasonable after being dismissed from any jury. (Revised May 10, 2017) (Revised May 4, 1981)

4.7.9 On-the-Job Injury The salary of any full-time employee of the Blount County Board of Education, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent of Education, may be continued for a period of not more than (90) working days. This payment is additionally limited by the following conditions: 1. The absence must be the result of a job-related injury. 2. Payments will not be made for total disabilities but only for temporary disabilities where there is a reasonable expectation of the employee's return to work. 3. The employee must provide notice of the injury to the Superintendent, school principal, or direct supervisor within 24 hours after the accident. The notice may be made by the injured party or by another person. 4. The employer may require medical certification from the employee's physician and may require a second opinion at the expense of the school system. 5. Any additional expenses, including unreimbursed medical expenses and cost which the employee incurs as a result of the injury, may be filed with the Alabama State Board of Adjustments. 6. Nothing contained in this policy shall be understood as precluding an employee who is absent due to a job related injury from using sick leave. 7. The Superintendent of Education will inform employees absent from work due to job related injuries which result in partial or total disability about their rights to proceed before the Alabama State Board of Adjustments. 8. (1)Employees absent from work due to an on the job injury must present a release to return to work from their physician before returning to the job. (1) (Revised/approved April 4, 2011 ) (Revised May 15, 1997) (Adopted June 10, 1985)

4.7.10 Absence from unavoidable cause Absence resulting from unavoidable causes other than sickness shall not be allowed for a longer time than one week during any one-year, and the allowance of any such pay shall be at the discretion of the Board. The Superintendent shall recommend to the Board teachers who meet the requirements for unavoidable leave as set out in the Code of Alabama 16-8-25, Code of Alabama, 1975. (Revised June 11, 1979)

4.7.11 College study during the school year A letter must be written to the Superintendent to obtain permission to complete more than six semester hours or eight quarter-hours of college credit during the school year. The letter requesting such permission should be sent to the Blount County Superintendent of Education before enrolling in the courses.

Permission will not be granted for teachers and administrators to complete more than twelve semester hours or eighteen quarter- hours of college credit during a school year. Not more than six semester hours or eight quarter-hours may be taken at one time.

4.7.12 Job Abandonment Employees taking unapproved paid/unpaid leave or failing to return at the specified time following an approved leave of absence will be considered to have abandoned the job. Leave taken without prior approval as required under this policy, will be treated as unauthorized leave and may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination. (Added May 10, 2017)

4.8 Family Medical Leave The Board complies with the Federal Family and Medical Leave Act. (P.L. 103-3), herein referred to as the Act. The Act applies to all Board employees who have been employed by the Board for at least 12 months and who worked for at least 1,250 hours during that 12-month period. Under the Act, an eligible employee is entitled to 12 weeks of unpaid leave during a 12-month period for the following reasons: (a) The birth and first-year care of a child. (b) The adoption or foster placement of a child. (c) The care of a "serious health condition" (A "serious health condition" means an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition that involves (1) inpatient care in a hospital, hospice or residential medical care facility or (2) continuing treatment by a health care provider.) The Board may allow or require that paid leave be taken before granting unpaid leave. Unpaid leave granted in compliance with the Act, when combined with paid leave available to an employee, shall not exceed a combined total of 12 weeks. In the instance of birth, adoption and foster placement, the entitlement to leave for childcare expires at the end of the 12-month period beginning on the date of birth or placement. Entitlement for leave associated with illness of a child occurs only where the child is under 18 years of age or incapable of self-care due to mental or physical disability. In cases where both spouses are employed by the Board, the combined amount of leave for childbirth, adoption, foster placement or to care for a sick parent is limited to 12 weeks. 4.8.1 Intermittent Leave If medically necessary for a serious health condition of the employee or the employee's spouse, child or parent, leave may be taken on an intermittent or reduced leave schedule subject to certain conditions which pertain to instructional employees (instructional employees are those whose principal function is to teach and instruct students in a class, a small group, or an individual setting). The Board may require the employee to transfer temporarily to an alternative position which better accommodates recurring periods of absence of a part-time schedule provided the position has equivalent pay and benefits. When instructional employees seek intermittent leave in connection with a family or personal illness and when such leave would constitute at least 20 percent of the total number of working days in the period during which the leave would extend, the Board may require the employee to take leave in a block (not intermittently) for the entire period or to transfer to an available alternative position with the school system, that is equivalent in pay, for which the employee is qualified and which better accommodates the intermittent situation.

4.8.2 Military Family Leave Provided by the Act a. Qualifying Exigency Leave – Under the FMLA, an eligible employee with a spouse, child, or parent on active duty or call to active duty status in the National Guard or Reserves in support of a contingency operation may utilize the twelve (12) week medical leave entitlement to address qualifying exigencies resulting from that service. b. Military Caregiver Leave – An eligible employee, who is the spouse, child, parent, or next of kin of a covered service member, is entitled to take up to twenty-six (26) weeks (including any medical leave provided by the Act) of unpaid leave during any twelve (12) month period (beginning the first day of the leave) to care for an individual covered service member with a serious injury or illness incurred in the line of duty while on active duty that may render the service member medically unfit to

perform the duties of the member’s office, grade, rank, or rating. A covered service member is a member of the Armed Forces, including the National Guard and Reserves, who is undergoing medical treatment, recuperation, or therapy, is otherwise in outpatient status, or is otherwise on the temporary disability retired list, for a serious injury or illness incurred in the line of duty on active duty. (Added May 10, 2017)

4.8.3 Notification

Except where circumstances are such that reasonable advance planning is not possible, employees must provide the Superintendent at least 30 days written notice of the date when leave is to begin. With respect to foreseeable family or employee’s illness, the employee shall make reasonable effort to schedule treatment--including intermittent and reduced hour leave--so as not to disrupt unduly the operations of the school district. 4.8.4 Certification The Board requires that a request for leave based on the serious health condition of the employee, the employee's son, daughter, spouse or parent be supported by a certification issued by the appropriate health care provider. The certification shall state (1) the date the serious health condition began, (2) the probable duration of the condition, (3) the necessity for the employee's leave, and (4) that the employee is unable to perform the employee's job functions. The Board reserves the right, at Board expense, to designate a second health care provider (other than a school system employee) to provide a second opinion. If the first and second opinion conflict, the Board can require, at Board expense, a third opinion by a health care provider approved by the Board and the employee. This opinion shall be binding. Upon the employee's return to work, the Board may require the employee to provide certification by the employee's health care provider that the employee is able to resume work.

4.8.5 Benefits Benefits accrued by the employee before leave is taken will not be altered by the employee’s absence under this policy. The employee is entitled to continuation of health benefits during the leave period under the same conditions these benefits would have been provided if no leave had been taken. If an employee fails to return to work after the leave period expires, the Board may recover the health benefits premiums paid by the employer for the employee's benefit during the leave period. 4.8.6 Restoration Upon return, the employee is entitled to restoration to an equivalent position with equivalent pay, benefits, and conditions of employment. The Board may deny position restoration to an employee whose salary is in the highest 10 percent of the employees employed by the Board if such denial is necessary to prevent substantial and grievous economic injury to the Board's operations. Because the end of the semester is a critical time for both teachers and students, the following conditions apply to requests from instructional employees seeking to return from leave within that last three weeks of the semester: 1. If the employee begins any category of family and medical leave five or more weeks prior to the end of the semester and the leave is for more than three weeks, the Board may require the employee seeking to return within the last three weeks to wait until the next semester. 2. If the employee begins any category of family and medical leave except personal sick leave less than five weeks before the end of the semester and the period of leave is greater than two weeks, the Board may require the employee seeking to return within the last two weeks to wait until the next semester. 3. If the employee begins any category of family and medical leave except personal sick leave three or fewer weeks before the end of the semester and the period of leave is greater than five working days, the Board may require the employee to wait until the next semester. When an instructional employee's leave falls within one of the three categories above, the required additional leave (for example, the last two weeks of the semester in category 1) is considered part of the available 12-week unpaid leave period per year. (Added May 2, 1994)

4.9 Substitute Personnel Substitute personnel will be hired by the Blount County Board of Education. All candidates for substitute positions must submit an application. Applicants must: 1. Present proof of eligibility to work in the United States 2. Be twenty-two years of age or older 3. Present proof of high school graduation or equivalent (substitute teachers only) 4. Receive proper background clearance through the State Department of Education 5. Hold a valid Alabama Substitute Teaching Certificate or Alabama Teaching Certificate (substitute teachers only) 6. Attend an orientation and training workshop. Substitute teachers working in a single classroom assignment for four or more consecutive weeks must be highly qualified. In the event the substitute is not highly qualified, the school shall provide to each individual parent a notice that the parent's child has been assigned, or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by a substitute/supply teacher who is not highly qualified in accordance with the No Child Left Behind definition and the state's criteria. (Revised and Approved September 27, 2004)

Substitute teachers working in a single classroom assignment for four or more consecutive weeks must be highly qualified. In the event the substitute is not highly qualified, the school shall provide to each individual parent a notice that the parent’s child has been assigned, or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by a substitute/supply teacher who is not highly qualified in accordance with the No Child Left Behind definition and the state’s criteria. (Revised and Approved September 27, 2004)

4.10 Complaints and grievances 4.10.1 Grievance procedure The normal procedure to be followed by each employee regarding a personal grievance related to his employment is to discuss the matter with the supervisor directly in charge. In the first step of the grievance procedure, or any formal conference involving a grievance, no other individual should attend the meeting except the grievant and the individual who represents the school system at the particular level. Only the grievant and the immediate supervisor shall be present in the first step of the grievance procedure. (Added May 6, 1985) If the problem is unresolved, the complainant may, within five working days after the first meeting, request in writing that the immediate supervisor arrange within five working days for a meeting with the Superintendent of Education. If the problem remains unresolved, the complainant may within five days after the meeting with the Superintendent, request in writing a full hearing before the Board of Education. (Amended May 6, 1985) (Revised May 3, 1982) Upon receipt of request for a hearing, the Board with whom the request is filed shall set a time and a place for the hearing, which time shall not be less than five working days or more than 15 working days. The Board shall give notice of the time and place of the hearing to all interested parties. The hearing date may be reset by mutual agreement of both parties. All parties shall have the right to legal counsel at personal expense, to present witnesses and documentary evidence, and to cross-examine witnesses offered by other parties. The Board will render in writing a decision, within a reasonable time.

4.10.2 Sex Discrimination Grievance Procedure The normal procedures to be followed by any individual regarding personal grievance related to sex discrimination is to discuss the matter with the supervisor directly in charge. If the problem is unresolved, the complainant may, within five school days after the first meeting, request in writing that the principal arrange for a meeting with the Superintendent of Education and/or the Title IX Coordinators.

If the problem remains unresolved the complainant may within five school days after the meeting with the Superintendent and/or the Title IX Coordinators request in writing a full hearing before the Board of Education. Upon receipt of request for a hearing, the Board with whom the request is filed shall set a time and a place for the hearing, which time shall not be less than five school days or more than 15 school days. The Board shall give notice of the hearing to all interested parties. The hearing date may be reset by mutual agreement of both parties. All parties shall have the right to legal counsel at personal expense, to present witnesses and documentary evidence, and to cross-examine witnesses offered by other parties. The Board will render in writing a decision, within a reasonable time. (Revised November 3, 1975)

4.11 Sexual Harassment Prohibited Conduct Employees shall not engage in conduct constituting sexual harassment. Sexual harassment, whether between employees, between an employee and a student, or between an employee and a member of the public visiting a school facility, is illegal and will not be tolerated. The Board will investigate all allegations of sexual harassment and take appropriate action against any employee who engages in sexual harassment. Sanctions against an employee for violation of this policy may include verbal or written warnings, transfer, suspension, or termination of employment. Definition Sexual harassment is defined to include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when: 1. The advances, requests, or conduct have the effect of interfering with performance of duties or creating an intimidating, hostile, or otherwise offensive work or educational environment; or 2. Submission to such advances, requests, or conduct is explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment or academic achievement; or 3. Submission to or rejection of such advances, requests, or conduct is used as a basis for employment decisions affecting the employee, or academic decisions affecting students.

4.11.1 Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedure An employee who believes he or she has been or is being subjected to any form of sexual harassment shall immediately report the matter to the employee's immediate supervisor, the school principal, or the Superintendent. Any employee who becomes aware of or suspects that an employee or student is being sexually harassed shall immediately report the information to the supervisor, principal or Superintendent. An employee's request to make his or her report of sexual harassment to someone of the same sex as the employee shall be granted. No employee alleging sexual harassment shall be required to present the matter to the person who is the subject of the complaint. If the complaint is received by someone other than the school principal, the person receiving the complaint shall promptly inform the principal or the Superintendent if the principal is the subject of the complaint. The principal or Superintendent shall start an immediate investigation into the matter. The completed investigation shall be reviewed by the Superintendent or the Superintendent's designee and legal counsel for prompt and appropriate action, if warranted. A written response to the employee's complaint will be provided to the employee within 45 days of the date the employee first registered the complaint. The employee may appeal the decision within 10 days of receipt of the decision by filing a written notice of appeal with the Superintendent. The Superintendent shall present the decision and notice of appeal to the Board at the next scheduled meeting of the Board. The Board shall make a final decision and notify the employee in writing of the Board's decision.

4.11.2 Protection of Complainant No employee shall be subject to adverse employment action in retaliation for any good faith report of sexual harassment under this policy. To the fullest extent practical, all reports of sexual harassment will be kept confidential.

4.12 Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 ("ADA") provides that "no qualified individual with a disability shall, by reason of such disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs, or activities of a public entity, or be subjected to discrimination by any such entity." Implementing regulations require public entities with 50 or more employees to designate an ADA specialist to oversee compliance with the ADA and to adopt procedures providing prompt and equitable resolution of complaints. The Superintendent shall designate the Board's ADA specialist. The ADA specialist shall be responsible for coordinating the Board's efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under the ADA, including any investigation of complaints communicated to the ADA specialist. Any student, employee, applicant for employment or patron of the Board who believes they have been discriminated against on the basis of disability in violation of the ADA, may file a written complaint with the ADA specialist. The complaint must be filed in writing and contain the name and address of the person filing the complaint and a description of the alleged violation. The ADA specialist will conduct an investigation into the alleged violation and mail a written response to the allegation within 10 working days after receipt of the written complaint. A complainant not satisfied with the ADA specialist's response may appeal to the Board within 10 working days of receipt of the response. The appeal must be in writing and state with particularity the portions of the response with which the complainant disagrees. The Board shall consider the appeal at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board and shall notify the complainant in writing of its decision within 10 working days after the Board meeting at which the appeal is considered. The ADA specialist shall maintain all files and records of the Board relating to complaints filed pursuant to this policy. (Revised May 2, 1994)

4.13 School Volunteers Parents and citizens of the school community are encouraged to serve the school in a volunteer capacity including but not limited to library assistants, classroom mothers and fathers, chaperones, clerical assistants, custodial assistants, and maintenance assistants provided that the principal or a designated delegate grants approval to the volunteer. All volunteers should be of good character and not be disruptive to the educational process. Volunteers are to be utilized as assistants to improve and enrich the educational program in the school. They are not, under any circumstances, to replace the staff person or to assume any responsibility of the employee. (1) Principals must follow the current guidelines for volunteer approval. The use of volunteers as members of the coaching staff of any sport without the written approval of the Board is prohibited. Volunteers may assist a coach in the same manner that an aide assists a teacher. A volunteer is prohibited from participating in the assignment and supervision of training and coaching exercises (1) without the supervision of a certified employee. Added March, 2011 4.14 Outside employment All employees of the Board are prohibited from holding employment with another agency or from being self-employed if such employment results in poor job performance or if it results in a detrimental effect on the school and the education process and program.

4.15 Dress For Employees The Blount County Board of Education believes that employees should dress in a manner that will result in students respecting them. Sloppy dress is not conducive to good discipline or to establishing a good learning environment. All employees should dress in a neat and appropriate manner for the jobs which they perform. Employees are prohibited from wearing tank tops, muscle shirts, extremely tight pants, sheer tops, hats, short pants, and backless clothing in school. Shorts or short pants are permitted during seasonally hot days for bus drivers and physical education teachers. Shorts that are extremely short and/or tight are prohibited. (Revised May 10, 2017) (Revised May 3, 1993)

4.16 Accumulated Overtime Hours Non-exempt employees as defined under the Fair Labor Standards Act are not allowed to work additional hours in a work week without prior direction or authorization by the Superintendent, principal or direct supervisor. Non-exempt employees who work approved hours over forty (40) hours in a work week are considered to have worked overtime. For purposes of determining overtime, the workweek begins at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday and ends at midnight on the succeeding Saturday. Hours representing holidays, annual leave, sick leave, or other leave types do not count as hours worked for the purposes of calculating overtime. Authorized overtime will be paid in the form of compensatory time or at the overtime rate of time and one-half of the employee’s hourly rate. Non-exempt personnel may not accumulate more than 40 hours of overtime without the prior approval of the Superintendent. The accumulated overtime time must be used by a specific date and on specific days as required by their supervisor. Not more than 40 hours may be used at any one time. (Revised May 10, 2017) (Revised May 3, 1993)

4.17 Student Welfare/Child Abuse and/or Neglect All employees are required by state law when called upon to render aid or assistance to any child when such child is known or suspected to be a victim of child abuse or neglect. The employee who has direct knowledge of or suspicion of abuse or neglect is required to report orally by telephone or direct communication immediately to the Department of Human Resources. The oral report must then be followed by a written report to the Department of Human Resources (Code of Alabama Section 26-14-3 amended). The Board requests that employees who report cases of suspected child abuse or neglect notify their respective principals. The principal will provide a written report of the case to the Superintendent. Any person making a report of suspected child abuse pursuant to Alabama law or participating in a judicial proceeding resulting therefrom shall, in so doing, be immune from any civil or criminal liability that might otherwise be incurred or imposed. Any public or private employer who discharges, suspends, disciplines, or penalizes an employee solely for reporting suspected child abuse or neglect will be guilty of a Class C misdemeanor (Code of Alabama Section 13A-5-7). Any person who shall knowingly fail to report a case of child abuse or neglect as required by Alabama law shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by a sentence of not more than six months imprisonment or a fine of not more than $500. (Added May 2, 1994) (Revised and approved October 7, 2013) 4.18 Personnel Files All employees shall have access to their personnel files. (Adopted May 4, 1987)

4.19 Political Advertising and Activities Employees are prohibited from wearing or displaying partisan political material such as buttons, bumper stickers, banners or similar items on school property during the school day or at any time or place when the employee is performing duties for the Board. Furthermore, employees are prohibited from displaying partisan political material on school bulletin boards or walls. The Board's and/or school's mail system may not be used to distribute political material. (Section 17-1-17 of the Alabama Code, Attorney General's opinion 94-00255). This policy does not prohibit students and teachers engaged in the study of government from collecting and displaying campaign literature of all candidates for any given office or offices on a bulletin board or for classroom discussion as a part of their classroom learning activities. This policy does not prohibit employees from placing a political bumper sticker on their private vehicle. Trucks with political signs may not be parked on school grounds during the school day. (Added May 1, 1995)

4.20 Educator Effectiveness/Lead Alabama Personnel Evaluation Program Beginning with the 2012-2013 school year, the Blount County Board of Education will implement the state Lead Alabama Personnel Evaluation Program for the evaluation of central office administrators, principals, directors, assistant principals and specialty building-level administrators such as instructional, improvement and program specialists. Beginning with the 2016-2017 school year, the Blount county Board of Education will implement the Blount County Educator Effectiveness Model for the evaluation of Teachers. The Educator Effectiveness Model will include Counselors, Media Specialist, and other specialty area educators beginning with the 2017-2018 school year. All procedures as outlined in the Educator Effectiveness Model and Lead Alabama evaluation programs shall be followed. Both Educator Effectiveness and Lead Alabama are on-line, formative evaluation systems with emphasis on professional growth and development. (Revised May 10, 2017) (Revised August 6, 2012)

4.21 Transfers Within the framework of the law and other state policies, the Blount County Board of Education shall have the authority to transfer employees from one position to another when such transfers are in the best interest of the total educational program, provided such transfers do not result in lower salaries.

4.22 Retirement 1. Employees who are members of the Alabama Teachers' Retirement System shall retire under the provisions and regulations of that agency. 2. Employees who are members of the Teachers' Retirement Systems shall retire on the first day of any month after completing their last day of employment. Employees must file an application to retire with the Teachers' Retirement System not more than 90 days and not less than 30 days before the first day of the month in which the retirement will be effective. 3. Employees under employment contract must complete the contract or make written request to the Superintendent of Education seeking the approval of the Board of Education to retire during the school year. (Revised May 7, 1990)

4.23 Reduction in Force of Certified Personnel 1. The Blount County Board of Education, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, hereby retains the sole and exclusive prerogative to reduce certified staff positions consistent with the provisions of state statutes and this policy. The Board may terminate, demote, or reassign certified personnel to achieve the necessary reduction in staff. Reduction of certified staff may result from the following reasons: decreases in student enrollment, changes in curriculum or programs, consolidation or reorganization of schools, serious natural disaster or financial reasons. Reduction in force shall be non-punitive and non-discriminatory. 2. Definitions: (a) The term "days" shall mean days excluding Saturday, Sunday and holidays. (b) The term teacher(s) is as defined by state statutes. (c) The term “seniority” shall be determined by date of Board approval for employment. (d) The term “certified employee” is deemed to mean and include only those persons regularly certified by the teacher certificating authority of the State of Alabama and whose employment in this system was dependent upon the employee’s holding such certification. (e) The term “tenured” means the status obtained by a teacher, or instructor who holds a teaching certificate and has met the statutory requirements of working three complete, consecutive school years and being offered employment for a fourth consecutive year. 3. Prior to commencing action to terminate a teacher under this procedure the Board of Education will attempt to effectuate the reduction in staff by: (a) Voluntary retirements

(b) Voluntary resignations (c) Voluntary leaves of absence (d) Voluntary transfers When a reduction in force is necessary, the first employees to be dismissed will be non-tenured teachers. Non-tenured teachers will be retained when a tenured employee is terminated only if the tenured teacher is not qualified by certification to teach the position which the non-tenured teacher occupies. 4. If a teacher has attained tenured status, he or she may be terminated because of elimination of the position to which the teacher was appointed if no other position exists to which the tenured teacher may be appointed if certified and qualified. No tenured teacher shall be terminated when a position exists which is either vacant or occupied by a non-tenured teacher and for which the tenured teacher is certified and qualified. 5. In making staff reductions among tenured teachers, the Board will consider all relevant criteria but will place major emphasis upon the following: (a) Seniority - Length of teaching service in the school system by years (b) Qualification to teach particular subjects, as determined by certification, teaching experience and past evaluations (c) Related experience in education If based upon these factors, two or more tenured faculty are equally qualified for the position, the date and the order in which the tenured faculty members were listed for hire on the agenda when the Board voted to employ them will determine the order of the reduction in force. If more than one non-tenured teacher is in the position, which is being reduced the same criteria as used to determine which tenured teachers will be placed on reduction in force shall be used to determine which non-tenured teachers will be terminated. 6. The name of the tenured teacher who has been terminated shall be placed on a recall list and remain on this list for one year from the effective date of his or her termination. Anyone desiring to be placed on the recall list for an additional year should apply on or before July 1 in writing by registered mail, for retention of his or her name on said list. Anyone who wishes to be removed from the recall list should notify the Superintendent's office by letter. The recall list will be posted in the Central Office. 7. In making staff reinstatement from the recall list, the Board will consider the following criteria: (a) Seniority – Length of teaching service in the school system by years. . (b) Qualification to teach the particular subject as determined by certification, teaching experience and past evaluations. (c) Related experience in education Tenured teachers dismissed through staff reductions will, for a period of one year, be offered re- employment if qualified by certificate in the area of need, in reverse order of dismissal before non- tenured teachers in the same teaching area are added to the staff. If a teacher is reinstated from the recall list, the teacher’s status as tenured will also be reinstated by the Board. 8. A recalled employee shall be sent, by registered letter, a written offer of reappointment prior to the proposed date of re-employment. The teacher shall accept or reject the appointment in writing by registered letter within ten (10) days from date of postmark of the offer or the offer shall be deemed to be rejected. A teacher who refuses to accept an assignment will be removed from the recall list. 9. No employee who has been terminated under this policy shall be entitled to payment or accrual of any compensation or fringe benefits after such termination, whether or not he or she remains on the recall list. However, an employee who is subsequently re-appointed shall be entitled upon such appointment to compensation at the current rate for other employees with like certification and years of experience as well as current fringe benefits. The years of unemployment, even though on the recall list, shall not be credited as years of service for compensation or retirement purposes. 10. It shall be understood that termination under the terms of this policy is in fact a termination of employment subject to administrative review in the manner set forth in this policy. 11. Provisions of this policy shall not apply to a tenured teacher or employee who has been dismissed for legal cause other than reduction in the number of employees. (Revised October 5, 2009)

4.24 Reduction in Force of Non-Certified Personnel

1. The Blount County Board of Education, upon the recommendation of the Superintendent, hereby retains the sole and exclusive prerogative to reduce non-certified staff positions consistent with the provisions of state statutes and this policy. The Board may terminate, demote, or reassign non- certified personnel to achieve the necessary reduction in staff. Reduction of non-certified staff may result from the following reasons: decreases in student enrollment, changes in curriculum or programs, consolidation or reorganization of schools, serious natural disaster, or financial reasons. Reduction in force shall be non-punitive and non-discriminatory. 2. Definitions: (a) The term "days" shall mean days excluding Saturday, Sunday and holidays. (b) The term “employee” as used in this policy is defined in §36-26-100, Code of Alabama, (1975). (c) The term “non-certified employee” means an employee employed by the Board whose employment does not require a teaching certificate issued from the State of Alabama, Department of Education. (d) The term “probationary” pertains to the status of an employee under the Students First Act who has not completed three complete, consecutive school years of full-time employment with the same employer. (e) The term “non-probationary” pertains to the status of an employee who has completed three, consecutive school years of full-time employment with the same employer and all the terms of the Students First Act have been met. (Revised August 6, 2012) 3. Prior to commencing action to terminate non-certified employees under this procedure the Board of Education will attempt to effectuate the reduction in staff through attrition by: (a) Voluntary retirements (b) Voluntary resignations (c) Voluntary leaves of absence (d) Voluntary transfers 4. If reductions beyond those achieved by attrition are necessary; length of service with the employing board shall govern. Probationary employees will be the first to be terminated. A non-probationary employee will be terminated only after all probationary employees in the designated position or job classification have been laid off. If it is necessary to include non-probationary employees in the Reduction in Force, non-probationary employees having the least length of service will be the first laid off. In the event two or more employees with the same job classification have the same length of service, the Board will then consider the performance, ability, and skill of the employees.

5. The Superintendent shall recommend to the Board the positions or job classifications to be affected and the particular employees to be dismissed. 6. Any reduction in personnel shall procedurally be accomplished in accordance with §36-26-100 to – 108, the Code of Alabama, (1975). 7. The name of the non-certified, non-probationary employee who has been terminated shall be placed on a recall list and remain on this list for one year from the effective date of his or her termination. Anyone desiring to be placed on the recall list for an additional year should apply on or before July 1 in writing by registered mail, for retention of his or her name on said list. Anyone who wishes to be removed from the recall list should notify the Superintendent’s office by letter. The recall list will be posted in the Central Office 8. In making staff reinstatement from the recall list the Board will consider the following criteria in determining which employee will be recalled: (a) Seniority – Length of service in the school system by years. (b) Qualifications and past evaluations. (c) Related experience in education Non-probationary employees dismissed through staff reductions will, for a period of one year, be offered re-employment if qualified in the area of need, in reverse order of dismissal before probationary employees in the same area are added to the staff. 9. A recalled employee shall be sent, by registered letter, a written offer of reappointment prior to the proposed date of re-employment. The employee shall accept or reject the appointment in writing by registered letter within ten (10 days) from the date of postmark of the offer or the offer shall be

deemed to be rejected. An employee who refuses to accept assignment will be removed from the recall list. 10. No employee who has been terminated under this policy shall be entitled to payment or accrual of any compensation or fringe benefits after such termination, whether or not he or she remains on the recall list. However, an employee who is subsequently re-appointed shall be entitled upon such appointment to compensation at the current rate for other employees with like certification and years of experience as well as current fringe benefits. The years of unemployment, even though on the recall list, shall not be credited as years of service for compensation or retirement purposes. 11. It shall be understood that termination under the terms of this policy is in fact a termination of employment subject to administrative review in the manner set forth in this policy. 12. Provisions of this policy shall not apply to an employee who has been dismissed for legal cause other that reduction in the number of employees. (Added October 5, 2009)

Section V – Students

5. Technology Responsible Use Policy (RUP) – Data Governance

Blount County Schools

The Superintendent is authorized to establish procedures governing the storage, use, and sharing of data maintained electronically by the school system. Such procedures shall comply with applicable state and federal law and shall include provisions for data security (including physical security measures), access controls, quality control, and data exchange and reporting (including external data requests, and third party data use). Nothing in this policy or in any procedures authorized hereunder creates or expands any entitlement to confidentiality of records beyond that which is established by law or specific Board policy.

Any unauthorized access, use, transfer, or distribution of Board data by any employee, student, or any other individual may result in disciplinary action (up to and including termination for employees) and other legal action. (Approved October 3, 2016)

Introduction

Blount County Schools relies on its computer network to enhance education outcomes. To ensure that BCS’ computer resources are used properly by its employees, students, independent contractors, agents, vendors, and other computer users, the Blount County Board of Education has drafted and approved the following Responsible Use Policy. The rules and obligations described in this policy apply to all users of BCS’ computer network or computer resources, wherever they may be located in BCS’ policies. Specific policies against discrimination and harassment (sexual or otherwise) apply fully to BCS’ computer resources, and any violation of these policies serves as grounds for discipline up to and including termination. Students who violate these policies are subject to disciplinary action consistent with Board policy and the Student Handbook. Vendors, consultants, and all other third party guest users must adhere to these policies and are subject to losing their right to access BCS’ computer resources for violations of these policies. By complying with the provisions in this Responsible Use Policy, users consent to monitoring as a condition of access under the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (1986). All users should be aware that BCS’ computer resource uses including all its components are subject to monitoring in order to comply with the Alabama Supercomputer Authority and Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), as well as the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA). Employees, students, and other users should not have any expectation of privacy in anything they create, store, send or receive using the BCS’ computer resources. The main goal of this aspect of the Responsible Use Policy is to ensure our children’s safety and protection while using technology for educational purposes. This Responsible Use Policy is crafted in the spirit of the Purpose and Direction for Blount County Schools, which includes our Mission “to create life-long learners by providing quality education and meeting the needs of all students” and our Vision to collaborate with all “stakeholders to prepare responsible citizens ready to succeed in an ever-changing global society.” This policy also fully represents our Beliefs as a school system and is undergirded by the three tenets framing the Purpose and Direction: College and Career Readiness for Every Student; Commitment to Continuous Improvement; and a Positive, Collaborative, and Safe Learning Environment. All technology resource use will be governed by the requirement that it must add to the standards- based educational experience and growth of the user and not disrupt the educational process in any way.

Definitions The term “computer resources” as used herein refers to BCS’ entire computer, electronic and communications network. Specifically, the term “computer resources” includes, but is not limited to computers, host computers, file servers, application servers, communication servers, mail servers, fax servers, Web servers, workstations, stand-alone computers, laptops, tablets such as IPADs, telephones, facsimile machines, scanners, software, data files, peripherals such as printers, and all internal and external computer and communications networks (for example, Internet, commercial online services, value-added networks, e-mail systems) that may be accessed directly or indirectly via remote access (including access by students, vendors, consultants and all other third party guests using personally owned computer hardware as authorized by BCS) from our computer network or that are owned or have been purchased by BCS. Bring your own device (BYOD) refers to technology models where students bring a personally owned device to school for the purpose of learning. A personally owned device is any technology device brought into the school and owned by a student (or the student’s family), staff, or guests. Laptop computers are portable computers that can be used with or without the Internet. Netbook computers are portable computers that gain most of their functionality through the Internet. Smartphones/handhelds, some of which blur the lines between the Internet and cellular networks (e.g., Blackberry, Android, iPhone, personal digital assistants, iPod Touch). Tablet computers fall along a continuum from laptop-like to large size smartphones (e.g., iPad, Android tablet, etc.). E-book readers (e.g., Kindle, Nook, Kobo) Audio MP3 Players (iPod, etc.) Smart Watches “Users” include employees, substitutes, students, and guests, using technology, including, but not limited to computers, networks, Internet, email, chat rooms, and other forms of technology services and products. Network is wired and wireless technology networks, including school and district networks, cellular networks, commercial, community or home-based wireless networks accessible to students. Equipment includes cellular phones, smart phones, PDAs, MP3 players, iPod type devices, and portable computers such as laptops, iPads, Nooks, Chromebooks, desktops, tablets and netbooks, as well as portable storage devices. Policy Statements

Protection of Users The Children's Internet Protection Act (CIPA) is a federal law that addresses concerns about access in schools and libraries to the Internet and other information. Under CIPA, schools and libraries are required to certify that they have certain Internet safety measures in place. These include measures to block or filter pictures that: (a) are obscene, (b) contain child pornography, or (c) when computers with Internet access are used by minors, are harmful to minors. Schools subject to CIPA are required to adopt a policy to monitor online activities of minors i.e. (a) access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and the Web; (b) the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and other forms of direct electronic communications, including but not limited to social networking sites; (c) unauthorized access, including so-called "hacking," and other unlawful activities by minors online; (d) unauthorized disclosure, use, and dissemination of personal information regarding minors; and (e) restricting minors' access to materials harmful to them. Schools will annually provide for the educating of minors about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking websites and in chat rooms, cyberbullying awareness, and response.

Bring Your Own Device Effective at the beginning of 2015-2016 school year, the Blount County Board of Education will implement a Bring Your Own Device Policy (BYOD). Students may have electronic communication devices and other digital devices in their possession such as iOS devices (MacBooks, iPhones/smart phones, iPads, iWatches/smart watches, iPods), Kindles, Nooks, tablets, Androids, Blackberrys, MP3 players, and laptops to be used for instructional purposes. They must be turned off, charged, and only in use with permission. Students will not be allowed to bring chargers to charge devices. The

principal, teacher, or supervising employee may approve the use of personal electronic devices for instructional purposes, after regular school hours, during medical emergencies, natural disasters, or under circumstances in which the use of the devices serves safety and convenience without disrupting academic or school operations. The principal, teacher, or supervising employee will also have the authority to further restrict the use of personal electronic devices by any student to prevent the misuse, abuse, or violation of school rules regarding the use of such devices. Electronic communication devices and other digital devices will not be allowed to be present in standardized testing situations based on State Department of Education Policy. Students and parents must sign a technology contract that outlines the terms of the policy prior to bringing any device. Neither the Blount County Board of Education nor local schools are responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items as this is a voluntary program. If students and parents do not agree to the terms, those students will not be allowed to participate in BYOD. Students will have basic technology available at school necessary to complete lessons and assignments as directed by the teacher. The purpose of the BYOD initiative is to enhance instruction and assist students in developing communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills necessary to meet the College and Career Readiness Standards. All devices must use the Blount County Schools’ guest network through Wi-Fi enabled airplane mode rather than a cellular data plan in order to meet Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA) compliance. Appropriate authorized use may include the following: research, organization of information into tables and graphs, organization of tasks using calendars, sharing information documents, and making calculations. Examples of unauthorized use or misuse, for the purpose of this policy, may include (but are not limited to) any of the following: having the device out in class, hallways, restrooms, or lunchrooms, texting, playing games, using apps, visiting websites, taking, posting, and/or sharing photographs and/or video on school campus or on the bus, without the supervising adult’s permission. The consequences for unauthorized use or misuse are outlined below: Board Approved: April 6, 2015

First Offense Take the phone or other electronic device, hold until the parent/guardian comes to the school and meets with an administrator to discuss the policy and the consequences of further violations of the policy. The parent/guardian will be asked to sign a verification/documentation form of the meeting.

Second Offense Take the phone or other electronic device, hold for seven (7) school days. A parent/guardian must pick up the cell phone or other electronic device from an administrator and again sign the verification/documentation form. The administration may assign detention, in-school suspension or Saturday school to the student.

Third Offense Take the phone or other electronic device, hold for nine (9) weeks of school. The student will also be placed in alternative school for three days.

* A disciplinary hearing will be held for any student that continues to violate this policy after the third offense.

**A disciplinary hearing will be held for any student who violates the policy and refuses to give the phone or electronic device to school personnel.

Social Media

Blount County Schools recognizes the value of social media, both for personal and professional use. However, there are some guidelines that should be addressed when educators use social media. The guidelines and reminders below have been developed to better protect (and inform) BCS employees from charges of inappropriate use. Teachers should not “friend” students on personal social media. Teachers should also be judicious about "friending" students' parents on social media. Many teachers utilize learning management platforms such as Edmodo to engage and assess 21st Century learners.

Unacceptable Social Media Use Includes: Updating social media or posting non-instructional content during school hours. Stakeholders expect BCS’ employees to be working during the school day; posting on social media during this time gives the impression that teachers are not fulfilling their responsibilities to students. Posting pictures with students in them without permission of parents or guardians. Using social media as the sole means of classroom communication. Posting disruptive content which harms the goodwill and reputation of the students, teachers, school, and system. Communication between teachers, parents, and students should be of an educational/extra-curricular nature and support the vision, mission, and beliefs of BCS. Other types of personal communication between teachers and students must be avoided.

Technology Acceptable Use Adult-supervised, technology-enhanced activities which are standards-based and educationally driven and which follow all Blount County Board of Education policies should be deemed as acceptable use by students and adults. Some examples of acceptable and/or responsible use may include, but are not limited to the following: visiting approved educational websites; research; online practice quizzes; educational games; reading/writing website programs; student-learning platforms such as Edmodo, Blackboard, or Moodle; using video-enhanced learning, such as Khan Academy, Ted, or YouTube for educational purposes; educational surveys or student response websites; achievement or performance tracking websites; as well as other educational uses. Technology Unacceptable Use Prohibited Activities --The following activities, items, or materials are prohibited: fraudulent, harassing, embarrassing, sexually explicit, profane, obscene, intimidating, defamatory or otherwise unlawful or inappropriate material may not be viewed, sent, posted, or shared through any form of electronic communication (such as bulletin board systems, newsgroups, chat groups), downloaded from the Internet or displayed or stored on BCS’ resources. This includes "Spam" and other non- educational/business related matter. Any user encountering or receiving materials that violate the Blount County Schools’ Responsible Use Policy should immediately report the incident to their teacher or supervisor. Computer resources may not be used for dissemination or storage of commercial or personal advertisements, solicitations, political material, promotions, religious material, or any other unauthorized significant personal use. Additionally, users should not attempt to circumvent network security or internet access restrictions, torrent/P2P, or use destructive programs, such as viruses/self- replicating codes. Users should not intentionally damage computers, peripherals, or the network in any way. Violation of a license agreement or copyright, any state, federal or international law, or waste of computer resources--Users may not deliberately perform acts that waste computer resources or unfairly monopolize resources to the exclusion of others. These acts include, but are not limited to sending mass mailings or chain letters, non-educational use of computer resources, playing games, engaging in online chat groups, or otherwise creating unnecessary network traffic. Violation Consequences Any user who violates this policy may have computer/Internet privileges revoked at any time and without prior notice. Employee violations of this policy may also result in administrative leave, suspension, and possible termination. Student users are also subject to discipline according to the Blount County Student Code of Conduct. Any illegal use will also result in civil and/or criminal liability.

5.1 Admission

All children between the ages of six(3) and seventeen (1) who reside in the school district will attend school regularly for the full term unless excused for the following causes: graduation from high school, physical or mental illness, or expulsion. (3) Revised May 8, 2012 (1) (Revised May 18, 2009)

(2) All children five years of age on or before September 1 shall be entitled to admission to kindergarten. (4) Effective with the 2016-2017 school year, ACT #2016-297 amends the Alabama Code (1975), §16-28-4, minimum age for admission to first grade-a child who is 6 years of age on or before December 31 or the date on which school begins in the enrolling school system shall be entitled to admission to the public elementary schools at the opening of such school for that school year or as soon as practical thereafter.

(2) (Revised July 26, 2005) (4) Revised June 3, 2016 All pupils registering for school in any grade must present a certificate showing immunization for the following: (1) Diphtheria/Tetanus/Pertussis (DTP), Diphtheria/Tetanus (DT), Diphtheria/Tetanus/acellular Pertussis (DTaP), or Tetanus/Diphtheria (Td), the student must have a total of 5 doses to be complete unless the 4th dose was given after the 4th birthday. (3) All students (11 or 12 years of age) entering the sixth grade will require a booster dose of tetanus-diphtheria toxoid and acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap) prior to enrollment.(3) A medical exemption is required for children less than 7 years of age that are not given pertussis vaccine. (3) (Revised June 2010) (2) Haemophilus influenzae type b (HIB), at least one dose is required on admission to Head Start. Not required for children older than 5 years of age. (3) Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) or Inactivated Poliomyelitis Vaccine (IPV), at least one dose required on admission. Must have 4 doses to be complete unless the 3rd dose was given after the 4th birthday. (4) Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR), first dose due at 12-15 months of age. A second dose of measles-containing vaccine is required for all students kindergarten through twelfth grades. (5) Varicella vaccine is subject to the following schedule unless there is documentation of a positive varicella titer or a date of varicella disease. This requirement is effective for students entering kindergarten beginning fall of 2001 and will escalate by one successive grade each year for the following 12 years to include all grades, kindergarten through twelfth, beginning fall of 2013. (6) Children entering pre-K programs must have four doses of the Pneumococcal vaccine. (3) (3)( Revised June 2010) Medical and/or religious exemption certificates will be accepted in accordance with Alabama law. All pupils enrolling in school for the first time must present a birth certificate or equivalent record of birth. A student who does not meet the above requirements will not be enrolled.

(Revised June 14, 2001)

Effective July 1, 2014, Blount County Schools will use the enrollment form approved by the State Department of Education for the enrollment of all new students each year. As part of the enrollment form and procedures, schools may request a Social Security Number (SSN) but it is not required for enrollment and disclosure is voluntary. If a SSN is not provided, schools must assign a temporary number using the state approved process and numbering sequence for your school. (SDE Memo FY 14-1027) (Added July 8, 2014)

No student shall be denied access to vocational programs or services on the basis of race, sex, national origin, limited English speaking ability, handicapping condition, or economic condition. (1)

No student will be allowed to attend the Blount County Career Technical Center unless enrolled in a high school operated by the Blount County Board of Education or the Oneonta City Board of Education. (2)

Students residing in the Blount County School District applying for admission to school as a transfer student from a church school, private school, non-accredited home school, or from a tutor are subject to being evaluated by means of tests administered by the principal of the school to determine proper grade placement. The tests administered may include achievement tests, end of grade level tests, end of course tests or some combination of these. Initial placement in a grade or course shall be

temporary pending the evaluation and determination by the principal of which grades and/or credits for courses are found to be acceptable by the school. Such evaluation and determination must be completed by the tenth school day after enrollment of the student. (3)

Admission for Foster Care, Homeless, Migratory, Immigrant (5), and Limited English Proficient Students

Pursuant to the requirement of Every Student Succeeds Act and the McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act of 2001, all foster care, homeless, migratory, immigrant (5), and limited English proficient children in the district will have access to the education and services needed to ensure that an opportunity is available to meet the same academic achievement standards to which all students are held.

The enrollment of foster care, homeless, migrant, immigrant (5), and limited English proficient children and youth shall not be denied or delayed due to any of the following barriers:  Lack of birth certificate  Lack of school records or transcripts  Lack of immunization or health records  Lack of proof of residency  Lack of transportation  Guardianship or custody requirements

The district will ensure that foster care, homeless, migratory, immigrant (5), limited English proficient students are not stigmatized nor segregated on the basis of their individual status. The student will be admitted to the district school in the attendance area in which the student is actually living or to the student’s school of origin as requested by the parent, guardian, education decision maker or homeless liaison in the case of an unaccompanied youth, and in accordance with the student’s best interest.

In the event of a dispute regarding eligibility or placement of a student as a homeless child, the parent or guardian shall be given notice and provided an opportunity for review of the dispute as prescribed by the State Board of Education’s administrative regulations.

In the event of a dispute regarding placement of a student living in foster care, the student will be immediately enrolled in the school requested by the student, guardian, or education decision maker while the appeal is being considered.

Transportation will be provided to and from the student’s school of origin at the request of the parent, guardian, or in the case of an unaccompanied student, the district’s liaison for homeless students. In the event circumstances are not in the best interest of the student to attend the school of origin based on determination by the parent, guardian, or liaison, the student will attend the school in the attendance area of current residence. (4)Revised May 10, 2017 (5) Revised January 9, 2012 (4) (Revised and Approved March 1, 2004) (3)( Revised May 2, 1994) (2)( Revised May 14, 1991) (1)(Revised May 7, 1990)

5.2 Transfer

Students living in Blount County must enroll in the assigned school that serves the designated district where the student and parent or legal guardian resides. Students may transfer to another Blount County School only if there is a change in residence into another designated district by the parent or legal guardian or by approval of the receiving principal. (Approved May 7, 2007)

New and transfer students must show proof of residency before being enrolled in Blount County Schools. Students living outside Blount County will not be admitted to Blount County Schools. Likewise, students whose parent or legal guardian does not reside in Blount County are not eligible to attend Blount County Schools. Also, students must reside with their legal guardian for admission to Blount County Schools.

Should a student's legal guardian move outside the Blount County School District, the student is no longer eligible to attend school in Blount County. An exception may be given for seniors who have already begun their final year of high school if approved by the school principal.

Students who live inside Blount County but outside the Blount County School District may be admitted by the school principal after reviewing the applicant's record of academic achievement, attendance and discipline. Those students approved for admission will be required to pay an additional admission fee after August 18, 1997. The admission fee for out of district students is $250 for one child, $350 for two children, $450 for three or more children and paid to the school's general fund. The admission fee is non-refundable. In addition, these students will be reviewed yearly by the principal and appropriate faculty on the basis of their academics, attendance and behavior to determine whether the student can continue their enrollment.

Those out of district students currently attending Blount County Schools may continue upon approval of the school principal.

Children of employees of the Blount County Board of Education who live out of district may attend Blount County Schools without a fee.

The principal and appropriate faculty should review academics, attendance and behavior yearly.

No out of county transfer shall be enrolled in a Blount County School for the current year if he is no longer in good standing at the school from which he wishes to transfer. Any exceptions must be approved by the Board.

Transfer students will not have completed registration until transcripts of scholastic records and other information on record have been received from the school previously attended.

Resident students of the Blount County School District who are enrolled in school in another school system will not be permitted during a scholastic school year to transfer to and attend any school operated by the Blount County Board of Education without the express written approval of the Superintendent of Education and/or the Board of Education. Students whose requested reasons to transfer to a Blount County Board of Education school include discipline and/or behavior problems will not be accepted for enrollment during the current scholastic school year.

(1) (Revised and Approved May 7, 2007) (Revised May20, 1999) (Revised May 15, 1997) (Revised May 14, 1991)

5.3 Promotion and Retention Guidelines and Student Classification A. Promotion and Retention Guidelines

Decisions made concerning the promotion and retention of students will be made jointly by the principal and teacher(s)

Effective with the 2019-2020 school year, all students in grades K-3 will receive a standards based report card. Grades will be assigned according to progress on state course of study standards.

Students are promoted from grade to grade on the basis of academic progress and a variety of other factors. Factors may include age, social/emotional maturity, attendance, special services, previous retention, and district and/or state assessments. Progress may be monitored during the school year, in summer school programs, or in other academic programs as may be approved or recognized by the Blount County Board of Education. Retention of a student will be a collaborative decision based on the above criteria.

Kindergarten performance standards - 3 - Meets Quarterly Benchmarks-consistently & independently 2 - Progressing Toward Quarterly Benchmark 1 - Insufficient Progress Toward Quarterly Benchmark

1st-3rd grade performance standards 3 - Meets Quarterly Benchmarks-consistently & independently 2 - Progressing Toward Quarterly Benchmark 1 - Insufficient Progress Toward Quarterly Benchmark

(Revised May 22, 2019)

FOURTH GRADE A.(1) English Language Arts/Reading: Must successfully complete the English Language Arts program with 60% accuracy. B. Math: Must successfully complete the math program with 60% accuracy. C. Must successfully complete 1 of these 2 subjects with 60% accuracy(1) Science Social Studies Supporting Data: 1. Assessments 2. Chronological age/previous retention 3. Attendance 4. Special Services

FIFTH GRADE English Language Arts/Reading: Must successfully complete the English Language Arts program with 60% accuracy B. Math: Must successfully complete the math program with 60% accuracy Must successfully complete 2 of these 3 subjects with 60% accuracy (1) Science Social Studies English Language Arts/Reading Supporting Data: 1. Assessments 2. Chronological age/previous retention 3. Attendance 4. Special Services

SIXTH GRADE A. English Language Arts/Reading: Must successfully complete the English Language Arts/Reading program with 60% accuracy: B. Math: Must successfully complete the math program with 60% accuracy. C. Must successfully complete 2 of these 3 subjects with 60% accuracy(1) Science Social Studies

Language Supporting Data: 1. Assessments 2. Chronological age/previous retention 3. Attendance 4. Special Services

(1)Revised and Board Approved May 5, 2008

SEVENTH AND EIGHTH GRADES

Students in grades seven and eight should have passed 3 of 4 major subjects (English Language Arts/Reading, History, math and science or 4 of 5 major subject areas if reading is a separate course before being promoted to the next grade. (Revised June 14, 2001) (Revised July 11, 2016) Other factors to be considered are: Assessments Chronological age/previous retention Attendance Special Services (Revised May 7, 1990) (Added August 5, 1985)

Student Classification Requirements for placement of students in the sophomore, junior and senior classes are as follows: 1. Sophomore Class-A student shall have passed at least four major subjects in the ninth grade and shall have earned six units of credit. (Effective July 1, 1997) 2. Junior Class-A student shall have passed at least eight major subjects since completion of the eighth grade and shall have earned twelve units of credit. (Effective July 1, 1998)

3. Senior Class-A student shall have passed at least twelve major subjects, shall have earned eighteen units of credit, and must be scheduled for sufficient subjects to meet graduation requirements. (Effective July 1, 1999)

Major subjects are English, history, math, science and all subjects required for graduation. (Revised June 3, 1996)

5.4 Attendance

Alabama law requires that all children between the ages of (3) six and (2) seventeen be enrolled in and attend school. In addition, new state law amendments (Ala. code s. 16-28-16, as amended by Act 1999-705) provide that all children who choose to enroll in school even if not of compulsory school age, are subject to the school attendance and truancy laws of the state. All students should attend school regularly and be punctual for all classes in order to receive the greatest benefit from the instructional program and develop habits of punctuality, self-discipline, and individual responsibility. There is a direct relationship between poor attendance and class failure. Students who have good attendance generally achieve higher grades and enjoy school more. Students who miss more than 15 total days in a school year are considered “chronically absent” by the state and are at a higher risk of negative school outcomes. Students who miss as little as two days each month miss an entire year of instruction over their K-12 school span. This can have a detrimental effect on achievement

and future success. Attendance at school shall be one of the factors considered in determining the promotion of a student from one grade to another or in any given course.

Parents and guardians are responsible for enrolling their children in school and ensuring that the children attend school and obey behavior policies adopted by the Board. Parents failing to enroll students and ensuring their attendance and proper behavior are subject to fines and imprisonment under state law. State law also requires that all student suspensions from school must be reported to the local district attorney.

Principals must report to the local superintendent any parent, guardian, or other person having control or custody of a child who fails to require the child to attend school or receive instruction by a private tutor, or fails to properly conduct him/herself at school. The Superintendent or designee is required to report the violators to the district attorney within 10 days.

A. Compulsory Attendance – Every child between the ages of six (6) and seventeen (17) must attend a public school, private school, church school, or be instructed by a competent private tutor for the entire length of the school term except that every child attending a church school is exempt from the requirements of the Code of Alabama (1975) 16-28-3;16-28-5, provided such child complies with the enrollment and reporting procedure specified in the Code of Alabama (1975) 16-28-7 of the code. It is the policy of the Blount County Board of Education that children enrolled in a private school, church school, or instructed by a private tutor must provide appropriate documentation to the Superintendent within 10 days after the beginning of school or upon withdrawal from school or upon residency in Blount County.

B. Absences and Excuses – Every parent, guardian, or other person having control or charge of any child required to attend public school, private school, or church school, shall as soon as practical explain the cause of any absence of the child under his control or charge which was without permission of the teacher. Failure to furnish such explanation shall be admissible as evidence of such child being a truant with the consent and connivance of the person in control or charge of the child, unless such person can show to the reasonable satisfaction of the court that he had no knowledge of such absence and that he had been diligent in his efforts to secure the attendance of such child. Code of Alabama (1975) 16-28-15

A good cause or valid excuse, as used in this section, exists when on account of sickness or other condition attendance was impossible or entirely inadvisable or impracticable or when, by virtue of the extraordinary circumstances, the absence is generally recognized as excusable. Code of Alabama (1975) 16-28-13

Students are not permitted to be absent from school without a valid excuse. Absences will be designated as excused or unexcused. Excused absences will be permitted for the following reasons:

 Personal illness  Hospitalization  Emergency conditions as determined by the principal  Death in immediate family  Court subpoena  Legal quarantine  Absences approved by the principal prior approval (including military leave of parent or guardian)

Documentation supporting an excused absence must be submitted within three (3) days after the student returns to school or the absence will be deemed to be unexcused. Excessive unexcused absences may result in a loss of academic credit or referral of the matter to juvenile or other appropriate legal authorities for investigation.

Only seven (7) days or partial days can be excused by parent/doctor notes each semester as a valid excused absence.

Any absence over seven in a semester will be marked unexcused in the attendance register. If a student has significant medical diagnosis, parents can submit a Medical Condition Release Form and a physician’s letter to the school documenting the medical condition and the necessity of additional absence days. Letters and release forms must be resubmitted each school year.

Homebound services may be provided for qualified students as determined by the Board of Education.

Excessive unexcused absences may result in a loss of academic credit or referral of the matter to juvenile or other appropriate legal authorities for investigation.

C. Make-up Work – Excused Absences

If a student is absent for any excused reason as defined above, the student shall be allowed to make up school work missed during said absence or absences. The student shall be responsible for contacting the teacher or teachers to arrange for make-up work. Said student shall contact the teacher or teachers to make up work within three (3) days after returning from said absence.

D. Make-up Work – Unexcused Absences

Teachers shall not provide make-up work or examinations for students absent for unexcused reasons.

E. Academic Incentives – for exceptional attendance

Students may be exempt from semester exams if they have (a) an 85+ average and one absence or less, or (b) a 90+ average in the class with three absences or less. F. Academic Sanctions – for excessive unexcused class absences Students that exceed seven (7) absences in a semester or fourteen (14) total absences in a school year will lose course credit and/or be retained.

G. Truancy Reporting

Truancy Definition

A parent, guardian, or other person having charge of any child officially enrolled in Alabama public schools (K-12) shall explain in writing the cause of any and every absence of the child no later than three (3) school days following return to school. A failure to furnish such explanation shall be evidence of the child being truant each day he is absent. Seven (7) unexcused absences within a school year constitute a student being truant for the purpose of filing a petition with the Court.

All children enrolled in Blount County Schools, whether compulsory school age or not, are subject to school attendance and truancy laws of the State of Alabama. All cases of non- enrollment or non-attendance will be investigated by the Blount County Board of Education Attendance Officer. In cases where there is no valid reason for absence, the attendance officer will give written notice to the parent, guardian, or other person having control of the child to require attendance of the child within three days of the date of the notice. If the absence is found to be without valid excuse or reason and intentional, the attendance officer shall be required to bring criminal prosecution against the parent, guardian, or other person having control of the child.

(16-28-16 Code of Alabama Effective July 1, 2000.)

1) 1st Truancy/Unexcused Absence (warning)

 Parent/guardian shall be notified (by memo or phone notification) that the student was absent.

2) 2nd Truancy/Unexcused Absence (Principal’s Letter)

 Parent/guardian will be notified by letter that the student was truant and provided a copy of the student’s attendance.

3) 3rd Truancy/Unexcused Absence (Attendance Officer Letter)

 Parent/guardian shall be notified by letter that the student is not in compliance with school attendance laws and policies and advised of the penalties that can be applied and the procedures that shall be followed in the event that other unexcused absences occur.

4) 5th Unexcused Absence (Early Warning)

 The parent, guardian, or person having control of the child shall participate in the Early Warning Truancy Prevention Program provided by the Juvenile court.

 Attendance at the Early Warning Truancy Prevention Program shall be mandatory except where prior arrangements have been made or an emergency exists.

 Failure to appear at the Early Warning Truancy Prevention program can result in the filing of a complaint/petition against the parent under Code of Alabama. (1975), 16-28-12(c) (failure to cooperate), or a truancy against the child, whichever is appropriate.

5) 7th Unexcused Absence

 The Attendance Officer will file a complaint/petition against the child and/or parent/guardian, if appropriate.

6) Child under probation

 The school attendance officer should be notified by the juvenile probation officer of all children in the school system under probation supervision by the juvenile court as consistent with state statute.

 Where a child under probation is truant, the school attendance officer should immediately notify the juvenile probation officer.

7) Suspensions are unexcused absences, but do not constitute unexcused absence total for truancy purposes.

(Revised May 22, 2019) (Revised May 18, 2009) (Revised and Approved by the Board June 10, 2002) (Revised June 14, 2001)

5.4.1 School Attendance and License to Operate Motor Vehicles (Regulations Governing School Attendance Standards and the Operation of Motor Vehicles.)

This policy is to meet the requirements of Alabama Legislative Act 93-368.

The purpose of 93-368 is to require school attendance standards as a prerequisite for a driver's license or learner's permit for the operation of a motor vehicle. School attendance standards are met by enrollment in a school or General Educational Development (GED) program or job training program approved by the State Superintendent of Education.

Requirements of the Act include: Verification of enrollment status by appropriate school personnel on Part I of the Student Enrollment/Exclusion Status form. Notification to the Department of Public Safety when a student has more than 10 consecutive or 15 cumulative days of unexcused absences during a single semester. Exemption for students due to circumstances beyond the control of the student. Implementation of appeals process. Definition of Circumstances Beyond the Control of the Student: In accordance with Section 16-28-6, Code of Alabama, 1975, circumstances beyond the control of the student are limited to:  Students who are mentally or physically unable to attend school.  Students who are regularly and legally employed under the provision of the Child Labor Law.  Students who, because of the distance they reside from school and the lack of public transportation, are compelled to walk more than two miles to attend a public school.  Suspension or expulsion from school or imprisonment are not circumstances that qualify for exemption.

The school system Superintendent or designee is the sole judge of whether or not the evidence presented meets the legal requirements of "circumstances that are beyond the control" of the student.

Appeals Process The appeal of a decision of the Blount County School System regarding the enrollment status of a student shall be submitted to the Blount County School System. To appeal, the student shall submit

to the appropriate school principal written notification of intent to appeal within 15 days of the issuance of enrollment status, including a statement of reasons for the appeal. Except as otherwise provided herein, the appeals process shall follow the procedures adopted by the Board for student grievances (policy 5.20)

Responsibility for Developing Procedures

Principals shall provide information to students regarding rights, penalties, and guidelines, provided in the Act. The process for implementing components of the policy which may include: Principals, assistant principals and guidance counselors are approved to certify enrollment and unexcused absences. The principal of each school shall assign personnel and specify the record keeping system to record consecutive and cumulative days of unexcused absences each semester. Principals, assistant principals, guidance counselors, Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent may issue the Student Enrollment/Exclusion Status forms to students. Principals shall notify the Department of Public Safety (DPS) of students not enrolled or exceeding 10 consecutive or 15 cumulative days absent during a semester. Principals shall advise students that DPS has been notified of the student's absences or withdrawal. The Superintendent with the assistance of the county attendance director shall determine whether specific facts and circumstances fall within the "beyond control" exemption. Principals shall inform students of the appeals process.(Added July 5, 1994) This policy is to meet the requirements of Alabama Legislative Act 94-820 which makes provisions for the suspension of driver's licenses for persons under the age of 19 who are convicted of the possession of a pistol on school premises.

Any person over the age of 14 who is convicted of the crime of possession of a pistol on the premises of a public school, or a public school bus, or both, under Section 13A-11-72 of the Alabama Code shall be denied issuance of a driver's permit or license for the operation of a motor vehicle for 180 days from the date the person is eligible and applies for a permit or license for the operation of a motor vehicle. Any adjudication of a person as a juvenile delinquent or youthful offender where the underlying charge is a violation under Section 13A-11-72 of the Alabama Code shall be reported to the Alabama Department of Public Safety.

If a person over the age of 14 years possesses a driver's license on the date of conviction, the Department of Public Safety, within five days of receipt of a notice of conviction from the court, shall send notice to the licensee that his or her driver's license will be suspended for 180 days.

The court shall notify the Department of Public Safety of the conviction of a person over the age of 14 of a crime involving the possession of a pistol on the premises of a public school, or a public school bus, or both, under Section 13A-11-72 and any reversal of the conviction.

Principals or their designees must report to the appropriate juvenile authorities or law enforcement agencies students found to be in possession of a pistol under the provisions of this law.

5.5 Graduation Requirements A. Requirements for Graduation Diplomas

Graduation from a Blount County High School denotes the completion of a school program designed to meet as nearly as possible the needs of the students. The Alabama State Course of Study shall be adhered to in meeting the program requirements. Time allotment and credit requirements as established by the State Department of Education shall be followed.

1) Beginning with the entering ninth grade class of 2013-2014 (graduating class of 2017), all students will be under Alabama's One Diploma option. NO additional LEA endorsements will be awarded.

(Revised and Approved May 6, 2013) (Revised July 11, 2016)

All candidates for high school graduation will be approved by the Superintendent upon the recommendation of the principals. (Revised June 3, 1996) A course in Driver Training should be taught in every senior high school and may be taken in any grade above the ninth grade. Driver Education is an elective course for which one-half unit of credit may be earned. (Revised June 3, 1996) (Revised May 1, 1989)

Health Education

Beginning with pupils that enter the ninth grade during school year 1982-1983 all pupils in high schools are required to successfully complete an approved one-semester course in health education before high school graduation, the contents of the course to be determined by the State Department of Education. The one-half unit of health education which is required by legislative act may be offered at any grade level (9-12) provided that the one-half unit shall not be counted toward the units required for graduation if taken below grade nine. (Act No. 853, Regular Session, Alabama Legislature, 1978.) Students who enroll in the prescribed program of study in Health Occupations Education for two years are not required to take the one-semester course in Health Education. (State Board of Education resolution on May 12, 1983 and Blount County Board of Education waiver on August 27, 1993.) (Revised May 1, 1995) (Revised May 1, 1989)

Physical Education

All students in grades 1-6 must receive at least 30 minutes of physical education daily (no exception; no substitutions).

All students in grades 7 and 8 must receive 50 minutes of physical education daily (no exceptions; no substitutions).

All students in grades 9-12 must receive 1 unit of credit (140 clock hours) of L.I.F.E physical education in order to meet Alabama High School Graduation requirements. (Revised June 2, 2006)

It is recommended that American Government be taught the first semester and Economics the second semester in order that uniformity throughout the state may be observed as much as possible. However, where a hardship is inflicted through the furnishing of textbooks, these courses may be taught simultaneously. The larger schools will be affected most by this necessity. In no case should the order be completely reversed. (Revised May 20, 1999) (Effective August 6, 1984)

Except in a case of bona fide change of residence or other circumstances equally valid for making an exception, a student is not to be graduated from high school unless he has been in continuous attendance therein during the entire high school year immediately preceding the date of graduation. In the event of the transfer from one school to another of a twelfth grade student who wishes to become a candidate for graduation at the end of the year, the school receiving the student should require approval in writing of the transfer and the student's candidacy for graduation from the principal of the school from which the student was withdrawn. The letter of approval together with any necessary memoranda should be filed with the transcript of the student's record from the discharging school. In case of doubt as to procedure or appropriate action in such case, either or both of the principals of the schools concerned should discuss the matter with the State Department of Education. (Effective August 6, 1984)

Graduation Activities

Diplomas shall be imprinted with the words Alabama High School Diploma.

It is the intent and desire of the Blount County Board of Education that graduation activities and procedures for awarding the Alabama High School Diploma or Certificate of Completion to each eligible student (including special education students) be integrated and identical with no distinctions/differentiations made in regard to the way the exit document is awarded or presented. (Revised May 29, 2009)

High schools are not authorized to issue a diploma as a result of GED tests or any other tests (Revised July 21, 2005) (Effective August 6, 1984) B. Requirements for Certificate of Completion

Each special education student who successfully completes the prescribed program specified in his/her Individual Education Plan (IEP) for high school graduation shall be awarded an Alabama High School diploma and afforded the opportunity to participate in activities related to graduation.

Issuance of Diplomas and Certificates of Completion

High School Diplomas and Certificates of Completion shall be issued only upon the authority of the Board of Education and shall be on forms prescribed or approved by the Board. Diplomas and Certificates of Completion shall bear the signature of the Superintendent of Education, Principal of the school, and the President of the Blount County Board of Education.

The "Great Seal of Alabama" shall be on the face of all diplomas and certificates of completion issued by schools under the jurisdiction of the Blount County Board of Education. (Effective August 6, 1984) Special education students should follow the program guidelines of the State Department of Education.

All schools shall follow the course offering requirements contained in Courses of Study as published by the Alabama State Department of Education. (Added May 1, 1989) C. Time Allotment Credit Requirements for Secondary Schools

Any subject that is offered in grades 9-12 which meets for a minimum of 140 clock hours of recitation and is successfully completed by the student enrolled in class must carry one (1) unit of credit. The credit must be counted toward graduation as an elective or required unit of credit. Example: One year or one unit of foreign language must be recognized even though the student does not pursue the second year of the program.

Any fractional credit which a student earns may be combined with any other fractional credit and cumulatively count toward graduation or for promotional purposes.

A maximum of two credits (units) may be earned in an approved summer school/credit recovery program for purposes of eligibility based on AHSAA guidelines. Units earned in the summer for eligibility purposes must be completed before September 1. (Revised August 6, 2012)

D. Requirements for a Graduation Certificate

The Graduation Certificate from a high school denotes that a special education student has not met the requirements of his or her IEP for a diploma. A student being awarded a Graduation Certificate will be allowed to participate in graduation activities.

A graduation certificate shall not be issued as a result of GED tests or any other tests.

Dating High School Exit Documents

High schools shall hold graduation ceremonies once each year on the date set by the Board for the purpose of awarding diplomas and the certificates of completion.

This same policy on the dating of exit documents shall apply to students completing course requirements after the regular date of graduation. (Revised May 29, 2009) (Added May 1, 1995)

Essentials/Life Skills Pathway, and Alternative Achievement Standards (AAS)

In addition to earning 24 Carnegie units, the student must complete the vocational training component of the program of study consisting of the following three components:

School Based Work Assessment. Successful experience and acceptable work performance evaluations in three to six school-based work assessment experiences, six to eight job shadowing experiences, or a combination for a minimum total of 30 hours.

Community Based Work Training. Successful experience and acceptable work performance evaluations in two to four community-based work training experiences with a minimum total of 30 hours.

Cooperative Career/Technical Education. Minimum of 270 hours of successful paid employment. (Revised March 3, 2003) (Approved May 20, 1999)

According to the April 24, 2014 ALSDE Memo FY 14-2057, "Students with disabilities in the 2010- 2011 or later cohort who meet all requirements for the AOD should be awarded the Alabama High School Diploma".

Students with Disabilities Now Have Three Pathways for Earning the Alabama High School Diploma: General Education Pathway, Essentials/Life Skills Pathway, and Alternative Achievement Standards (AAS) Pathway. (Added July 8, 2014)

Early Graduation/Early Release With the Early Graduation/Early Release Policy, The Blount County Board of Education seeks to fairly and equitably meet the needs of students who have a legitimate reason to graduate or be released from high school ahead of their cohort while not encouraging the practice or appearing punitive to other students. Early Graduation: Students may graduate early from Blount County Schools by meeting all requirements for an Alabama High School Diploma as described in the Alabama Administrative Code 290-030-010-6 (11) and when the conditions listed below are met. 1. Students must submit their intent to graduate early in writing to the principal or program director by the end of August of the school year in which they plan to graduate early. This goal should also be evident in the student’s four-year educational plan. Students seeking graduation more than one calendar year ahead of their age-based cohort must seek superintendent approval. 2. Students who plan to graduate early must follow course sequence/prerequisites. 3. Students who plan to graduate early will not be given preferential treatment in registration and course selection. 4. Students who plan to accelerate their program of studies for the purpose of early graduation may do so if space is available in classes after grade level students have completed registration. 5. Students who complete graduation requirements early will not be permitted to remain at school during the regular school day. 6. A student must be a full time student to be eligible to participate in extracurricular activities as defined by the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA). Schools may also require part- time daily attendance for extracurricular participation. Therefore, a student who graduates early will not be eligible for extracurricular activities. 7. Students who complete graduation requirements will receive their diploma at the regularly scheduled graduation ceremony or at a Board-approved mid-year graduation. Early Graduation is contingent on final course grades, obtaining the necessary verified credits, and demonstrating College and/or Career Readiness by earning a state-recognized College/Career Readiness Indicator (CRI). Students may accelerate their program of studies, with approval from the school, by enrolling in summer school and/or dual enrollment at a postsecondary institution. Early graduates are withdrawn from the school database and records will include a graduation date consistent with the last day of the semester in which final graduation requirements were met. Career Academy Early Graduation (FOCUS): Students may graduate early from Blount County Schools by meeting all requirements for an Alabama High School Diploma as described in the Alabama Administrative Code 290-030-010-6 (11) and when the conditions listed below are met: 1. The student has completed all graduation requirements. 2. The student has demonstrated College and/or Career Readiness by earning a state-recognized College/Career Readiness Indicator (CRI). 3. The student and parents/guardian have completed an exit conference with the Career Academy staff for post-secondary planning.

4. Agreement is reached with regards to date of diploma issuance and ceremony participation. Students may graduate upon completion of the above conditions and be awarded their diploma, or they may choose to receive their diplomas at a mid-year or end-of-year ceremony. Early Release Program: A student may be released from school during the school day and participate in the Early Release Program if he/she meets the following guidelines: 1. The student has completed all graduation pre-requisites. 2. The student has demonstrated College and/or Career Readiness by earning a state-recognized College/Career Readiness Indicator (CRI). 3. The student must be in an approved Technical Education Training Program or a Marketing Education Coop Program, OR 4. The student must be enrolled in the Dual Enrollment Program and his/her college course must be taken on the college campus during the hours of 8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P. M. 5. Prior to approval, a review of the student’s transcript must be conducted with the student and parent(s)/guardian(s) by Principal/Counselor. 6. The parent(s)/guardian(s) and Principal must sign the early release form. 7. Students wishing to continue participating in extracurricular activities after Early Release may be required by the school to maintain part-time student status and must meet AHSAA attendance rules. Students considering Early Graduation should verify with their insurance provider concerning a change in coverage, and students who are 18 years old or older may lose social security benefits if not in school on a full-time basis. (Board approved February 8, 2016)

5.5.1 The Bridge Academy Virtual/Blended Program

In order to comply with Alabama Act No. 2015-89 requiring at a minimum (that) beginning with the 2016-2017 school year, the Blount County Board of Education will offer a complete on-line graduation pathway for students in grades nine through twelve. Additional courses will be available for blended learning to students who wish to remain at their local school for the majority of the school day. Courses will consist of a rigorous, high-quality online curriculum aligned to the ALSDE-CCRS, as well as other state standards. SCOPE AND DELIVERY: Instruction at The Bridge Academy is delivered through traditional face to- face instruction, non-traditional virtual facilitation, or a blended combination of the two. The system’s learning management system (LMS) and other innovative instructional technologies house our course curriculum that allows teachers to facilitate teaching and learning. Each student and his/her parent(s) develop a customized personal education plan with an administrator and/or counselor that allows teachers to utilize the system’s instructional policies and procedures, Alabama’s College and Career Standards, best practice frameworks, state assessments and PLAN 2020 when developing and building lessons and facilitating classes. All courses are under the Blount County Board of Education accreditation umbrella and approved by the Blount County Board of Education through this policy. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: The Bridge Academy courses and programs are free for enrolled full-time students meeting residency requirements, as well as for returning students who meet Blount County residency requirements. Virtual student eligibility will be determined based on an application process facilitated by the administrators of The Bridge Academy and the local school. Students must be in good academic standing and demonstrate the potential for success in an online environment as judged by previous academic performance and attendance. Continued participation will be determined by student progress toward course completion. At any point when a student falls behind in the online coursework, a determination may be made that the student should return to the face-to- face setting in order to be successful and graduate on time. Special course considerations must be planned in advance for Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) and National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) eligibility; therefore, it is recommended that student athletes and other students wishing to participate in extracurricular activities remain on a traditional course pathway to ensure eligibility.

PERFORMANCE MONITORING AND TESTING PROTOCOL: The Bridge Academy is governed by the policies and procedures of Blount County Schools. All policies adopted by the Blount County Board of Education and all applicable administrative code and laws adopted by the State Board of

Education and Alabama Legislature are applicable (to the extent that they are not otherwise waived pursuant to the Alabama Accountability Act of 2013). All policies and procedures adopted by the Blount County Board of Education apply to The Bridge Academy programs unless expressly stated within this policy. All Bridge Academy students will be closely monitored to ensure that they are successfully completing coursework and remaining on their defined graduation pathway. Students who fall behind will be required to attend face-to-face sessions until they are deemed “on-pace” for course completion. Blount County Virtual Career Academy students must participate in state testing for accountability purposes, as well as any local testing deemed necessary by the virtual program administrators.

ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS: Attendance to the Bridge Academy campus will be based on GPA and weekly academic progress. Students who fail to meet weekly academic progress may be assigned additional campus visits. Any student who fails to attend can be referred for truancy and dismissed from the Bridge Academy.

Level 1  Overall GPA 3.0 or higher  Weekly visit on Bridge Academy campus (for testing)  On-line lessons

Level 2  Overall GPA between 2.5 and 2.99  On-line lessons  One scheduled weekly visit to Bridge Academy campus (for testing)  Weekly assignment goal

Level 3  Overall GPA lower than 2.5  Two scheduled visits per weeks to Bridge Academy campus required  On-line lessons  Weekly/daily assignment goal

Level adjustments will only be made after transcripts are evaluated at the end of each semester.

The Blount County Board of Education will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability, including limited English proficiency, in its implementation of the Blount County Virtual Career Academy, nor will it enforce this policy in such a manner that would otherwise violate state or federal law or court order.

Board Approved May 1, 2016 Revised May 22, 2019

5.6 Graduation Honors

Beginning with the 2016-2017 school year, weighted credits will no longer be added to courses. The only exception will be for schools that are part of the A+ College Ready Advanced Placement Grant Program. AP course at these schools shall be weighted 1.25 if students successfully complete the course and take the corresponding AP exam. Board approved May 11, 2016

Beginning with the entering ninth grade class of 2013-2014 (graduating class of 2017) all students will be considered for Valedictorian, Salutatorian, and Historian Awards based on semester grade point averages calculated from grades nine through eleven and the first semester of grade twelve. All subjects taken (including those taken at the Blount County Career Technical Center) will be counted

in calculating grade averages. Numerical grades will be based on a maximum of 100 points possible. Honor students will be chosen according to the highest grade point average carried out to the 100th place if necessary to distinguish placement. In the event that two or more students have the same numerical average for any of the top three honors, provided the average has been taken out to the 100th place, then the two (or more) students shall share the honor. (a)Grades that are given for being an office, library or teacher’s aide/audit will not be counted when calculating grade averages. (Revised May 6, 2013)

Beginning with the entering ninth grade class of 2013-2014 (graduating class of 2017) schools will recognize students who graduate with a 3.5 or higher GPA as graduating “With Honors.” The honors should follow these guidelines: Overall GPA for credit-bearing courses should be used in the calculation. 3.500 – 3.7999 = “With Honors,” 3.800 – 3.999 = “With High Honors,” 4.000 and above = “With Highest Honors” An Honor Seal may be affixed to the Alabama High School Diploma Students graduating with any level of “honors” should be recognized accordingly during the graduation ceremony. (Revised May 6, 2013)

Students transferring from a school system where numerical grades are not given will be assigned numerical grades based on that system's grading scale, if available. If a scale is not available, the Blount County School System scale will be used. In the event of lack of pluses or minuses with the letter grades, the middle numerical grade will be assigned to each letter grade.

Only Carnegie Units received from a state accredited school system will be accepted for the purpose of calculating the grade-point averages for the top three honors. Credit units transferred from an independent correspondence study, non-accredited private school, church school, private tutor, and/or a home school will not be accepted for the purpose of calculating the averages for the top three honors.

(Revised May 15, 1997) (Revised May 1, 1995) (Revised May 3, 1993) (Revised May 7, 1990) (Revised May 5, 1986)

5.7 Dress and Decorum

The policy of the Blount County Board of Education is that good grooming and personal appearances are essential elements in the teaching and learning process. Therefore, it is expected that students dress in such a manner that will ensure health and safety, and not detract from the learning environment. Furthermore, dress and personal appearance are not to be disruptive or interfere with the educational interest and welfare of the students or the purposes of public school education.

Any student violating the dress code may be suspended for the remainder of the school day and may receive unexcused absences in the classes missed. The principal or his/her designated person(s) has the authority to determine inappropriate dress.

Repeat offenders are subject to further disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the principal/designee. (2)

Principals can specify dress code for specific events, i.e. graduation, prom, etc. (5)

A. Student Dress Code

Students must be neatly dressed, clean, and well groomed while at school. Clothing must be suited for school activities.

Students in grades K-12 are prohibited from wearing excessively loose clothing including shirts, tops, pants, and shorts.

Pants should be of the appropriate size in the waist and inseam. Pants are not allowed that sag off the hips.

Trench coats are also prohibited. (4)(Approved May 20, 1999)

Students in grades 4-12 are prohibited from wearing short shorts, short culottes, sheer mesh or net clothing, backless clothing, extremely tight pants, tank tops or muscle shirts, (6)shirts with sleeves cut off at the shoulder, or clothing that exposes a bare midriff. (3)Shirts must be buttoned. For students in grades 4-12, clothing, cuts, slits, or tears in clothing should not exceed four inches above the knee. (1) Extremely tight clothing shall be prohibited.(7)Leggings and other tightly fitting pants must be covered with clothing that meets the four inch standard stated above.

Clothing or any item attached to or worn on clothing or on a person's body, with pictures, symbols, or writing conveying a message about alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, having a sexual connotation, containing any obscenity, or containing any foul or abusive language is prohibited on the school campus.(5) No writing on back (seat) of pants, jeans, shorts, sweatpants, etc. for K-12 grade male and female students, including cheerleaders and all athletes.

Shoes or sandals must be worn.

Hats, headwear or head coverings, and sunglasses are not to be worn inside school buildings.

Students will be prohibited from wearing any apparel which is inappropriate or disruptive to the learning environment as determined by the principal. (7) (Revised/approved April 4, 2011) (6) (Revised/approved April 8, 2011) (5)(Revised April 4, 2005) (4)(Revised May 20, 1999) (3)(Revised May 15, 1997) (2-Revised May 1, 1995) (1-Revised May 14, 1991) (Revised May 7, 1990) (Revised May 4, 1987) (Revised May 5, 1986) (Revised May 6, 1985) (Revised May 2, 1983) B. Backpacks

No restrictions on backpacks. Revised May 4, 2009

C. Hair Students’ hair should be kept clean, neat and well-groomed and of a length not dangerous around equipment (hair must be secured around equipment). Spiked hair, Mohawks, designs cut in hair, or hair that disrupts the educational process will not be allowed. Hair, including highlights, that is not a natural shade of hair color is unacceptable, i.e. pink, blue, green, purple, etc. Revised May 10, 2017

D. Tobacco

Use or possession of tobacco in any form including vapor and/or electronic cigarettes is expressly prohibited on school premises and school buses including trips at all times, regardless or whether school is in or out of session. On the first offense, the student will be given a one-day suspension. On the second offense, the student will be given a two-week placement in Alternative School. Any subsequent offenses will require the student to appear before the Blount County Board of Education with a recommendation from the principal as the suggested punishment. (Revised April 6, 2015) (Revised May 15, 1997)

E. Drugs and Alcohol

Students in the possession of or under the influence of any illegal drugs or in the possession of drug paraphernalia (those drugs and paraphernalia prohibited by Federal and State of Alabama Laws) or alcoholic beverages will be suspended and subject to expulsion from school as well as subject to legal action by the appropriate legal authorities. Any student having in his/her possession any drug, prescription or non-prescription and/or gives away, sells, or attempts to give away and/or sell medication, non-prescription or prescription, will be subject to suspension or expulsion. (Revised July 29, 2003)

F. Profanity and obscenity will not be tolerated

G. Weapons

Students are prohibited from bringing to the school campus, having in their possession or in their lockers, any lethal weapons or facsimile, including but not limited to firearms, bombs, fireworks, explosives, knives, hunting knives, bayonets, razors, razor blades, letter openers, ice picks, and hat pins.

Any student who is found guilty of having a lethal weapon may be expelled by the Board.

In addition to the above policy on weapons, the following policy statement is required by Act 94-817 as it amends Section 13A-11-72, Code of Alabama 1975.

Subject to the exceptions provided in Section 13A-11-74, Code of Alabama 1972, no person shall knowingly with intent to do bodily harm carry or possess a deadly weapon on the premises of a public school.

Possession of a deadly weapon with the intent to do bodily harm on the premises of a public school in violation of the subsection printed above is a Class C felony.

The term "deadly weapon" as used in this Act means a firearm or anything manifestly designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting death or serious physical injury, and such term includes, but is not limited to, a bazooka, hand grenade, missile or explosive or incendiary device; pistol, rifle, or shotgun; or a switchblade knife, gravity knife, stiletto, sword or dagger; or any club, baton, billy, blackjack, bludgeon, or metal knuckles. (Revised May 1, 1995) The following policy relative to weapons (firearms) is necessitated by the Federal Gun-Free Schools Act of 1994 and by Act of the Alabama Legislature, 1995:

Any student who, after due process has been accorded, is found to have brought a weapon (firearm) to school will be expelled by the Board for a period of not less than one year (365 days) subject to a case by case exception that may be granted by the Superintendent of Education for the purpose of disciplining students with disabilities in accordance with the requirements of Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Furthermore, any student who

brings a firearm or weapon to school must be referred by the principal to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency systems.

The one-year expulsion requirement applies to students who bring weapons to any setting that is under the control and supervision of the Board including events held off the school campus and including school buses and other means of transportation that are under contract with the school or Board.

Nothing in this policy shall be constructed to prevent the Board from providing a student who has been expelled from the student's regular school setting educational services in an alternative setting.

Expulsion means removal from the student's regular school program at the location where the violation occurred.

Alternative setting means one that is clearly distinguishable from the student's regular school placement.

A "weapon" or "firearm" means a firearm as defined in Section 921 of Title 18 of the United States Code. According to Section 921, the following are included within the definition: --any weapon which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of any explosive. --the frame or receiver of any weapon described above --any firearm muffler or firearm silencer --any explosive incendiary, or poison gas bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine, or similar device --any weapon which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant, and which has any barrel with a bore of more than one-half inch in diameter. --any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into any destructive device described in the two immediately preceding examples, and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled. According to Section 921, the following are not included in the definition: --an antique firearm --a rifle which the owner intends to use solely for sporting, recreational, or cultural purposes --any device which is neither designed nor redesigned for use as a weapon --any device, although originally designed for use as a weapon, which is redesigned for use as a signaling, pyrotechnic, line throwing, safety, or similar device --surplus ordnance sold, loaned, or given by the Secretary of the Army pursuant to the provisions of Section 4684 (2), 4685, or 4686 of Title 10. The Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms does not include Class-C common fireworks in the definition of weapon. (Revised May 23, 1995) H. Earrings

Boys are prohibited from wearing earrings to school. Girls are permitted to wear earrings in the ear to school. Students are prohibited from wearing any other body-piercing jewelry to school.

I. Electronic Communication Devices

Effective at the beginning of 2015-2016 school year, the Blount County Board of Education will implement a Bring Your Own Device Policy 5.0 (BYOD) . Students may have electronic communication devices and other digital devices in their possession such as iOS devices (MacBooks, iPhones/smart phones, iPads, iWatches/smart watches, iPods), Kindles, Nooks, tablets, Androids, Blackberrys, MP3 players, and laptops to be used for instructional purposes. They must be turned off, charged, and only in use with permission. Students will not be allowed to bring chargers to charge devices. The principal, teacher, or supervising employee may approve the use of personal electronic devices for instructional purposes, after regular school hours, during medical emergencies, natural disasters, or under circumstances in which the use of the devices serves safety and convenience without disrupting academic or school operations. The principal, teacher, or supervising employee will also have the authority to further restrict the use of personal electronic devices by any student to prevent the misuse, abuse, or violation of school rules regarding the use of such devices. Electronic communication devices and other digital devices will not be allowed to be present in standardized testing situations based on State Department of Education Policy. Students and parents must sign a technology contract that outlines the terms of the policy prior to bringing any device. Neither the Blount County Board of Education nor local schools are responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items as this is a voluntary program. If students and parents do not agree to the terms, those students will not be allowed to participate in BYOD. Students will have basic technology available at school necessary to complete lessons and assignments as directed by the teacher. The purpose of the BYOD initiative is to enhance instruction and assist students in developing communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills necessary to meet the College and Career Readiness Standards. All devices must use the Blount County Schools’ guest network through Wi-Fi enabled airplane mode rather than a cellular data plan in order to meet Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA) compliance. Appropriate authorized use may include the following: research, organization of information into tables and graphs, organization of tasks using calendars, sharing information documents, and making calculations. Examples of unauthorized use or misuse, for the purpose of this policy, may include (but are not limited to) any of the following: having the device out in class, hallways, restrooms, or lunchrooms, texting, playing games, using apps, visiting websites, taking, posting, and/or sharing photographs and/or video on school campus or on the bus, without the supervising adult’s permission. The consequences for unauthorized use or misuse are outlined below:

First Offense: Take the phone or other electronic device, hold until the parent/guardian comes to the school and meets with an administrator to discuss the policy and the consequences of further violations of the policy. The parent/guardian will be asked to sign a verification/documentation form of the meeting.

Second Offense: Take the phone or other electronic device, hold for seven (7) school days. A parent/guardian must pick up the cell phone or other electronic device from an administrator and again sign the verification/documentation form. The administration may assign detention, in-school suspension or Saturday school to the student.

Third Offense: Take the phone or other electronic device, hold for nine (9) weeks of school. The student will also be placed in alternative school for three days.

* A disciplinary hearing will be held for any student that continues to violate this policy after the third offense.

**A disciplinary hearing will be held for any student who violates the policy and refuses to give the phone or electronic device to school personnel. Revised April 6, 2015 Revised May 10, 2017

Cell Phone/Digital Device in a Testing Setting by Students

The possession of digital devices (including but not limited to cell phones, MP3 players, cameras, mobile entertainment, social connections, navigation devices, or other telecommunication devices) is strictly prohibited in the testing setting. Local education agency (LEA) school personnel will collect such devices before students can enter the testing room.

If a device is in the possession of a student in the testing setting, testing for the student will cease, the device will be confiscated, the student will be dismissed from testing, and the student's test will be invalidated. Additional disciplinary action may be taken by the LEA. (Added June 15, 2011) J. Laser Pointers

Students are prohibited from bringing, possessing, or otherwise using laser pointers or other devices that emit laser light at school or school sponsored activities. However, students may participate in science lab exercises or other activities using lasers when under the direction and supervision of a teacher. (Approved May 20, 1999)

K. Gang Symbols

Clothing or paraphernalia related to or associated with gang affiliation or activity is prohibited. Any symbol of gangs, gang activity or gang membership may not be worn or displayed by students at school or while participating in any school activity including field trips.

(Revised May 1, 1995) (Revised May 3, 1993) (Revised May 7, 1990) (Revised June 5, 1989) (Revised May 2, 1988) (Revised May 4, 1981)

L. Rules for Specific Activities With approval of the principal, activity sponsors may establish different rules for dress and grooming as a prerequisite for membership and participation in specific activities except that nothing in this policy is meant to imply that those things prohibited in this policy manual shall be permitted except for students required to wear uniforms. (Added May 1, 1995)

M. Required Actions for Drugs, Alcohol, Weapons, Physical Harm, or Threatened Physical Harm

The school principal shall notify appropriate law enforcement officials when a person violates Board policies concerning drugs, alcohol, weapons, physical harm to a person, or threatened physical harm to a person. If any criminal charge is warranted, the principal is authorized to sign the appropriate warrant. If a student violates these policies, he or she shall immediately be suspended from attending regular classes and hearing scheduled within five (5) school days before the Board of Education.

If a student is found to have violated a Board of Education policy concerning drugs, alcohol, weapons, physical harm to a person or threatened physical harm to a person, the student may not be readmitted to the public schools of this state until criminal charges, if any, have been disposed of by appropriate authorities and the student has satisfied all other requirements imposed by the Board as a condition for readmission.

Any student determined to be guilty of an offense involving drugs, alcohol, weapons, physical harm to a person or threatened physical harm to a person, may be readmitted to the public schools of this

state upon such conditions as the Board of Education shall prescribe for preservation of the safety or security of students and employees of the Board, which may include, but are not limited to, psychiatric or psychological evaluation and counseling.

The decision to suspend or initiate criminal charges against a student, or both, shall include a review and consideration of the student's exceptional status (students with disabilities), if applicable under Chapter 39, Code of Alabama 1975, or appropriate state and federal statutory or case law. (Act 94- 784 as it amends Section 16-1-24.1, Code of Alabama 1975) (Added May 1, 1995)

N. Bullying, Harassment, Discrimination

The Blount County Board of Education is committed to protecting its students and employees from bullying, harassment, or discrimination of any type. The school board believes that all students and employees are entitled to a safe, equitable, and harassment-free school experience. Bullying, harassment, or discrimination will not be tolerated and shall be just cause for disciplinary action. This policy shall be interpreted and applied consistently with all applicable state and federal laws. Conduct that constitutes bullying, harassment or discrimination, as defined herein, occurring on school property during the school day or at school-sponsored events is prohibited. The use of school equipment for the purpose of these actions is also prohibited.

Section 1: Bullying, Intimidation, Violence, and Threats of Violence Prohibited. No student shall engage in nor should any be subjected to bullying, violence, threats of violence or intimidation by any other student that is based on any of the specific characteristics set forth in this policy. Students who violate this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary sanctions as specified in the Student Code of Conduct, subject to the investigating school administrator’s authority and decision.

Section 2: Definitions In this policy, these terms shall have the following meanings: (a) “Bullying” means a continuous pattern of intentional behavior on or off of school property, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored function including, but not limited to, cyberbullying or written, electronic, verbal, or physical actions that are reasonably perceived as being motivated by any characteristic of a student, or by the association of a student with an individual who has a particular characteristic, if the characteristic falls into one of the categories of personal characteristics contained in this policy. To constitute bullying, a pattern of behavior may do any of the following:  Place a student in reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or damage to his or her property.

 Have the effect of substantially interfering with the educational performance, opportunities, or benefits of a student.

 Have the effect of substantially disrupting or interfering with the orderly operation of the school.

 Have the effect of creating a hostile environment in the school, on school property, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored function.

 Have the effect of being sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for a student.

(b) “Hostile environment” means the perception by an affected student that the conduct of another student constitutes a threat of violence or bullying and that the conduct is objectively severe or pervasive enough that a reasonable person, under the circumstances, would agree that the conduct constitutes bullying, threat of assault, or assault.

(c) “Violence” means the unjustified infliction of physical force by a student with the intent to cause injury to another student or damage to the property of another student.

(d) “Threat” means a statement of an intention to inflict pain, injury, damage, or other hostile action to cause fear of harm. The intention may be communicated through an electronic, written, verbal, or physical act to cause fear, mental distress, or interference in the school environment. The intention may be expressly stated or implied and the person communicating the threat has the ability to carry out the threat.

(e) “Threat of violence” means an unjustified expression of intention to inflict injury or damage that is made by a student and directed to another student.

(f) “Intimidation” means an unjustified threat or other action that is intended to cause fear or apprehension in a student.

(g) “Student” as used in this policy means a person who is enrolled in Blount County Schools public school system.

Section 3: Description of Behavior Expected of Students (a) Students are expected to treat other students with courtesy, respect, and dignity and comply with the Code of Student Conduct. Students are expected and required (1) to comply with the requirements of law, policy, regulation, and rules prohibiting bullying, violence, or intimidation; (2) to refrain from inflicting or threatening to inflict violence, injury, or damage to the person or property of another student, and (3) to refrain from placing another student in fear of being subjected to violence, injury, or damage when such actions or threats are reasonably perceived as being motivated by any personal characteristic of the student that is identified in this policy.

(b) Bullying, intimidation, violence, or threats of violence are prohibited and will be subject to appropriate disciplinary consequences and/or sanctions if the perpetrator of such action is found to have based the prohibited action on one or more of the following personal characteristics of the student:  Race  Sex  Religion  National origin  Disability

Section 4: Consequences for Violations A series of graduated consequences for any violation of this policy will be those outlined in the Code of Student Conduct or any rule or standard adopted under authority of this policy.

Section 5: Reporting, Investigation, and Complaint Resolution Procedures

(a) Complaints alleging violations of this policy may be made on a Board-approved complaint form available in the handbook, on the website, or at the school’s office. The complaint must be delivered to the principal or the principal’s designee either by mail or personal delivery. Incidental or minor violations of the policy may be presented and resolved informally. The complaint form developed to report violations of this policy will include a provision for reporting a threat of suicide by a student. If a threat of suicide is reported, the principal or the principal’s designee is authorized to inform the student’s parent or guardian of the report unless at the discretion of the school principal or the principal’s designee the apparent cause of the threat of suicide is child abuse or other significant harm from a parent or guardian.

(b) Upon receipt of the complaint, the principal or the principal’s designee will determine if the complaint alleges a serious violation of this policy. If the principal or the principal’s designee determines that the complaint alleges a serious violation, the principal or the principal’s designee will undertake a reasonably prompt investigation of the complaint. The investigation will entail the gathering of relevant facts and evidence taking into account the circumstances of the complaint. If the investigation establishes a violation, appropriate disciplinary sanctions may be imposed on the offending student(s). Other measures that are reasonably calculated to prevent a recurrence of the violations(s) may also be imposed by the principal or the school system.

(c) Acts of reprisal or retaliation against any student who has reported a violation of this policy or sought relief provided by this policy are prohibited, and are themselves a violation of this policy. Any confirmed acts of reprisal or retaliation may be subject to disciplinary sanctions that may include any sanction, penalty, or consequence that is available to school officials under the Code of Student Conduct. A student who deliberately, recklessly, and falsely accuses another student of a violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary sanctions as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct.

Section 6: Promulgation of Policy and Related Procedures, Rules, and Forms This policy and any procedures, rules and forms developed and approved to implement the policy will be published on the website of each local board of education and school, shall be available at each school office, and shall be included in the student handbook that is distributed to each student at the beginning of each school year. (Revised May 22, 2019) (Revised/approved April 4, 2011)

O. Jason Platt Act State of Alabama Youth Suicide and Prevention

Section 1. Prevention of Suicide

The Jason Flatt Act was passed in order to equip Alabama school districts and their personnel to recognize and act on signs of suicide risk in order to provide prevention, intervention and postvention with students at risk, their families and the communities who may be affected. This act, which amends 16-28B-8 of the Code of Alabama 1975, includes prevention of harassment and violence.

Section 2. The Jason Flatt Act includes several elements which should be interpreted as Policy.

The school system will: Foster individual, family, and group counseling services related to suicide prevention. Make referral, crisis intervention, and other related information available for students, parents, and school personnel. Foster training for school personnel who are responsible for counseling and supervising students. Increase student awareness of the relationship between drug and alcohol use and suicide. Educate students in recognizing signs of suicidal tendencies and other facts and warning signs of suicide. Inform students of available community suicide prevention services. Promote cooperative efforts between school personnel and community suicide prevention program personnel. Foster school-based or community-based, or both, alternative programs outside of the classroom. Develop a strategy to assist survivors of attempted suicide, students, and school personnel in coping with the issues relating to attempted suicide, suicide, the death of a student, and healing. Engage in any other program or activity which the local board determines is appropriate and prudent in the efforts of the school system to prevent student suicide.

Provide training for school employees and volunteers who have significant contact with students on the local board policies to prevent harassment, intimidation, and threats of violence. Develop a process for discussing with students local board policies relating to the prevention of student suicide and to the prevention of harassment, intimidation, violence, and threats of violence. Provide annual training for all certified school employees in suicide awareness and prevention. This training may be provided within the framework of existing in-service training programs or as a part or required professional development offered by the local school system.

Section 3. Description of Behavior Expected of Students

Students are expected to treat other students with courtesy, respect, and dignity and comply with the Code of Student Conduct. Students are expected and required to (1) comply with the requirements of the law, policy, regulation, and rules prohibiting harassment, violence, or intimidation and (2) to comply with the system’s prevention strategies related to suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention support.

Section 4. Responsibility of Reporting

Any person involved in a cause of action or omission resulting from the implementation of this suicide prevention policy or resulting from any training, or lack thereof, required by this section, shall be subject to state immunity law.

Section 5. Promulgation of Policy and Related Procedures, Rules and Forms

This policy and any procedures and rules developed and approved to implement the policy will be published, disseminated, and made available to students, parents and legal guardians, and employees by such means and methods as are customarily used for such purposes, including publication on the Blount County Board of Education’s Web site. (Approved October 3, 2016)

P. Articles/Items Prohibited in Schools

Knives, sharp objects, fireworks, firearms, or weapons of any kind are prohibited.

If brought to school, prohibited items will be impounded and may not be returned. The Blount County Board of Education or the school will not be held responsible for any confiscated items.

Added June 15, 2011 Q. Lockers

School lockers are used by students on a permissive basis only. The lockers remain the property of the school and may be opened and searched as the need arises. A locker which has a lock placed on it may be opened upon demand of school authorities after reasonable notice. (Revised August 18, 1975)

5.8 Transportation

A. Personal Vehicles

A student driving an automobile to school must be a licensed driver and must park in the place designated by the principal. Vehicles are not to be moved during the school day without the permission of the principal and are not to be moved at the end of the day until all buses are loaded and off the school grounds unless an exception is made by the principal. Students will not be allowed to loiter in or around parked cars during the school day.

Speed limit on all school grounds is 5 (five) miles per hour.

School officials, standing in loco parentis, may search any vehicle brought on campus by a student when such officials have reason to believe the student may have possession of any substance, item, or material which could endanger that or another student or could interfere with the educational process of the school.

The principal has the authority to designate faculty, employee, bus, student, and visitor parking zones if the need for such zones exists.

Any student who fails to abide by any of these regulations can be refused permission to drive a vehicle to school. (Revised May 7, 1990) (Revised June 11, 1979)

B. Public Vehicles

In accordance with the law, the bus driver shall stand in the place of the parent or guardian when exercising authority and control over the pupils who ride the bus while they are in transit to and from school. This means that the driver is responsible for the good conduct of all pupils while they are on his bus and he shall make sure they deport themselves properly and observe all safety rules and regulations.

A pupil who is willfully disobedient, fights, or destroys property while on a school bus may lose transportation privileges and may be excluded from the bus. Public transportation is a privilege and a convenience and is conditioned upon good behavior.

C. Students who attend the Blount County Career Technical Center

Students who attend the Blount County Career Technical Center will be required to ride school buses to and from the center, unless other arrangements are approved by the Center Director and the local principal.

5.9 Safety Supervision

Pupil safety shall be a major concern of the principal and faculty.

A. Playground

The principal and concerned faculty will arrange for supervision of the playground during school hours.

B. Before and After School Hours

Faculty members will be on campus fifteen minutes before school opens and fifteen minutes after school dismisses. Parents should be aware of this when allowing students to arrive early or remain late.

A designated faculty member will supervise planned school activities which take place after school hours. (Revised August 18, 1975)

C. Illness

Parents or other designated persons will be contacted in case of student illness.

D. Fire and Tornado Safety

Fire and tornado drill signals shall be uniform throughout the school system for every school. These signals shall consist of the following:

Tornado-Continuous series of three short bells signifying the three syllables of tornado Fire-One long continuous bell just as a fire siren is continuous Schools must have a backup alarm system in case of power failure. An example of a backup alarm is a hand-rung bell.

5.10 School Athletics

A. Athletic events shall be limited to one night per week prior to a school day (an exception will be made for Thursday night varsity football games). A student will be allowed to participate only on one night before a school day each week.

Total number of games played each night will be limited to five. (Revised May 2, 1994) Girls and boys teams will be limited to junior varsity and varsity teams. The varsity team will consist of students from grades 9-12 and the junior varsity team will consist of students from grades 7-10. Basketball teams shall be limited to a varsity team, "B" team, and a junior high team. (Revised May 6, 1985) The county basketball tournament shall be played the week prior to the area tournament for boys' and girls' teams. Times for boys' and girls' varsity teams will be eight minutes per quarter and junior varsity games will be six minutes per quarter in basketball. The junior football games and the B-team football games will be played on the same night. A student can cheerlead on one (1) night before a school day each week. (Added May 6, 1985)

Students who participate in school athletics will be governed by the regulations set forth by the Alabama High School Athletic Association.

Reasonable precaution and safeguard for the welfare of athletes will be taken.

Transportation for team athletes and cheerleaders to and from scheduled events will be provided by the school, if possible.

Locally scheduled athletics during the instructional day (360 minutes) are prohibited. Athletic activities for students below grade seven (7) are limited to intramurals. Tackle football for students below grade seven is prohibited. (Revised May 18, 1987 (Added August 6, 1984) B. The Board recognizes the Blount County Girls' Athletic Conference, an organization for coaches of girls' sports, and the Blount County Coaches Association, an organization for coaches of boys' sports, in Blount County. The organizations are expected to adhere to the rules and regulations of the Alabama High School Athletic Association and to the policies of the Board of Education.

The rules and regulations of the Alabama High School Athletic Association and of the two county coaches organizations are not to be considered policies of the Blount County Board of Education.

C. The athletic program of each school is subject to the approval of the principal. (Revised May 6, 1985) (Added August 6, 1984) D. The principal of the school hosting the Blount County Basketball Tournament shall have the authority to select the association of game officials for officiating the annual County Basketball Tournament. The association to be used during the tournament may or may not be an association used by the host school for regular season games. The host school shall be responsible for obtaining a contract with the chosen association for officiating the tournament. (Revised June 3, 1996)

5.10.1 Blount County Board of Education Policy on Extracurricular Activity Participation-Academics First

The Blount County Board of Education recognizes the value of all extracurricular activities as they relate to the total education of students. The Blount County Board of Education also recognizes and supports high academic standards and the necessity of developing a framework to annually assess each student involved in extracurricular activities and his/her progress toward graduating from high school on schedule with his/her class. This Board of Education also recognizes that the Class of 2000 and subsequent classes will be required by State Board of Education resolution and the Alabama Administrative Code to earn a minimum of 24 credits in Grades 9-12, with four (4) credits each in science, mathematics, social studies, and English.

The Blount County Board of Education prescribes the following regulations for eligibility by students in this school system to participate in all extracurricular activities:

Students entering Grades 10-12 must, for the immediately preceding school year, have a passing grade and earn the appropriate number of credits in each of six (6) Carnegie units of credit, including four (4) credits from the four (4) core subjects composed of English, science, social studies and mathematics.

Physical education may count as only one (1) unit per year.

No more than two (2) Carnegie units may be made up during summer school. If a unit(s) or subject(s) is repeated in summer school, the higher numerical grade for the unit(s) or subject(s) may be used to compute the composite grade average.

Eligibility will be determined before the start of each new school year. A student that is academically eligible at the beginning of the school year remains eligible for the remainder of that school year so far as grades are concerned. Students declared ineligible at the beginning of a school year may regain their eligibility at the end of the first semester by meeting the academic requirements listed above during their last two semesters in attendance and summer school, if applicable. The restored eligibility of any student must be determined no later than the fifth day of the second semester. Bonafide transfers may be dealt with according to rules of the Alabama High School Athletic Association for sports and rules to be developed by this Board of Education as they pertain to other extracurricular activities.

Each eligible student must have a minimum composite numerical average of 70 on the six (6) Carnegie units from the preceding year, including summer school. Summer school work passed may substitute for regular schoolwork repeated in computing the 70 average.

Each eligible student involved in athletics must meet the definition of a regular student as defined by the Alabama High School Athletic Association.

Any student who earns more than four (4) credits in the core curriculum in any given year or who accumulates a total in excess of the required four (4) per year may be exempt from earning the four

(4) core courses in the succeeding year as long as that student remains on schedule for graduation with his/her class.

Students entering Grades 8 and 9 must, for the immediately preceding school year, have a passing grade in five (5) subjects with a composite numerical average of 70 with all other rules applying the same as to students in Grades 9-12.

Students promoted to the seventh grade for the first time are eligible.

Extracurricular activities associated with athletics are defined as those recognized and sanctioned by the Alabama High School Athletic Association, and other extracurricular activities are defined as those that are sanctioned by a public school which are not related to a student’s academic requirements or success in a course(s). Regular curricular activities are defined as those that are required for satisfactory course completion. School sponsors are required to submit a request for each curricular activity that occurs outside the regular school day and/or school to the principal, superintendent and the local Board of Education for approval. Each request for full participation by all students, regardless of academic standing, in a curricular activity shall be granted if the principal, superintendent, and the local Board of Education approve participation in the activity as an extension of a course(s) requirement(s) and it is an event sanctioned by a state/national subject matter association. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this policy, student participation in extracurricular activities offered by the school through math, science, band, choral music, and other courses at events such as athletic events (pregame, game, halftime, or other breaks), club conventions, parades, amusement park trips and competitions, trips by tour companies, performances at various meetings, etc., are extracurricular, and students academically ineligible under this policy shall not be allowed to participate.

This policy is effective for all students in grades 8-12 beginning with the 1999-2000 school year with their eligibility determined by grades earned during the 1998-99 school year and 1999 summer school, and shall remain in effect for each succeeding year in the same format as described herein.

This is a minimal policy of Blount County Schools. Other more stringent guidelines may be required by individual extracurricular disciplines. (Added May 20, 1999) (Approved October 6, 1998)

5.11 Extracurricular Activities

A. If a student is absent from school for more than one-half of a day, that student will not be allowed to perform, play, or practice with his or her particular extracurricular activity on the day of the absence. This will involve all students and all extracurricular activities. If a student has to be absent from school, this student must seek approval of the principal in advance if he or she wishes to participate in the extracurricular activity. Upon the student’s request, the principal shall make a decision about the student’s participation. The principal shall make this decision after deliberation with the coach, sponsor, or director of the student’s extracurricular activity. (Revised March 3, 2003)

B. All extracurricular activities must have a teacher-sponsor. These club activities will be held on school property unless exceptions are approved by the Board.

C. Responsibility for student transportation to and from the origin of departure for a school extracurricular event is assumed by the parent or legal guardian. (Revised June 14, 2001)

D. Local school (extracurricular) activities will not interfere with regular classes at the vocational center.

E. Club Initiation and Hazing. Club initiation activities will not extend to the area of physically detracting the body of the initiates. This policy is expressly directed toward, but is not limited to, unorthodox haircuts, body painting, and other such activities which are not conducive to the pursuit of academic excellence. (1)

5.12 Marriage

Married students are subject to the same rules and regulations as other students.

(1)(Revised May 14, 1991) (Revised June 14, 1976)

5.13 Discipline The discipline of highest educational value is self-discipline on the part of individuals.

In cases where discretion and forethought have been used, it is the duty of the principal to support teachers in everyday disciplinary actions. In cases where the support is not forthcoming, the Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent, and/or the Board will supply the needed support.

Grades may not be lowered as a disciplinary measure. B. Corporal punishment must be administered by the principal, assistant principal or teacher.

The corporal punishment must be witnessed by another adult which must be a principal, assistant principal or another teacher.

Corporal punishment must not be administered in front of other students.

Corporal punishment must be reasonable and not severe enough to cause bodily injury. Corporal punishment must not be cruel or inhumane and must never be administered with malice. Corporal punishment must be documented stating the name of the student, the reason for the punishment, the type of the punishment, the signature of the person who administered the punishment, the signature of the witness, and the date of the punishment. This documentation must be retained until the student graduates or achieves the age whereby he/she should have graduated for a student who ceases to attend school.

C. After-School Detention Schools may implement a policy of after-school detention as a means of discipline. (Revised May 4, 1987) (Revised June 11, 1979)

D. Suspension

Suspension may be used as a discipline measure when other efforts have failed to modify a student's behavior in school. Suspension may be used to protect the safety of others, the learning environment, property, and the education of others. A student may be suspended for violating Board policies.

The principal or designee may suspend any student for the above reasons. The suspension period must not be longer than for five school days.

The student must be given an oral or written notice of the charges against him, and if he denies them, an explanation of the evidence and an opportunity to present his version.

A suspended student will not be allowed to participate in any school extracurricular activities during the suspension period. (Revised June 11, 1979) (Added May 6, 1985) A hearing should immediately follow the misconduct, but if prior notice and hearing are not feasible, as where the student's presence endangers persons or property or threatens disruption of the academic process, thus justifying immediate removal from school, notice and hearing should follow as soon as practicable. The hearing must be held within three school days following the suspension.

Reasons for which suspension action may be taken against a student include but are not limited to such acts as: Use of obscene or abusive language Willful disobedience to persons acting in an official capacity. Possession of obscene or pornographic literature and other material. Taking another's property under duress, by threat, by stealing or by other fraudulent means. Fighting or engaging in violent behavior. Possession of, consumption of, or intoxication due to use of restricted or controlled drugs or alcoholic beverages, chemicals and chemical substances. Also, possession of any drug paraphernalia. Unauthorized presence during the school day at any school or on school property where not enrolled. Violation of the policy on medication. Continuous disruption of classroom procedures. Use of tobacco in buildings or on buses or smoking on the campus.

(Revised May 7, 1990) (Revised May 2, 1988) (Revised August 18, 1975) Written accounts of suspension must be filed in the school office and a copy sent immediately to the Superintendent.

Immediately after suspension, a written notice of suspension will be mailed or sent to the parent or guardian. A parent or guardian must accompany the student on his return to school unless the principal specifically exempts such requirement.

E. Expulsion

A student may be expelled for any act that is detrimental to the education process, the school program, the condition of the public school buildings, the condition of the public school buses, or the rights of others to pursue an education. Any student who, after due process has been afforded, is found to have brought a weapon (firearm) to school will be expelled by the Board for a period of one year but no other expulsion may extend beyond the end of the school year during which act(s) leading directly to the expulsion occurred unless such act(s) occurred during the last 6 weeks (30 school days) of the school year. An expulsion made during the last 6 weeks (30 school days) of a school year may extend into the next succeeding school year.

No student will be expelled without a proper hearing before the Board of Education with the decision being made by that body with due consideration for the recommendation of the Superintendent.

Any student who is the subject of any expulsion action will be granted every right of due process including a hearing, the right to hear the alleged charge(s), the right to question all evidence, the right to speak and offer evidence in his own behalf and the right to have a full explanation of the applicable Board policy used to charge the student.

Expulsion action may be taken for violation of any Board policy. (Revised May 23, 1995) (Revised May 7, 1990) (Revised August 18, 1975)

A written report of the pertinent facts concerning the case shall be filed in the office of the Superintendent. Immediately after expulsion, written notice of expulsion should be sent to the parent or guardian.

An expelled student may petition the Board that he be reinstated at the beginning of next semester. The principal and the Superintendent shall make recommendations on such requests to the Board.

An expelled student will not be allowed to participate in any school extracurricular activities and shall not be allowed to attend any school functions unless such functions are open to the public. The expelled student shall be subject to the same rules, regulations, and laws that apply to the public. (Added May 6, 1985)

F. Suspension and Expulsion Policies and Procedures for Students with Disabilities

(A)Blount County Board of Education will follow the following procedures in disciplining students with disabilities

Suspension: All suspensions should be for a specified number of days, not to exceed three (3) full school days or maximum specified by the Board and statutory regulations. Any deviation from said pattern shall require the authorization from the Superintendent of Schools. Provided the student is suspended, following a hearing which affords the applicable due process criteria, the principal shall notify the student's parent or legal guardian in writing on forms prescribed by the school system of the action taken, cause or causes for such action, effective dates of suspension and/or specified requirements to be met prior to re-admission.

Ten or more days of suspensions during any given school year will necessitate the convening of the IEP Team to conduct a manifestation determination, as it may result in a change of placement.

Expulsion:

A student with disabilities may not be expelled from school for any misbehavior that has a direct and significant relationship to that student's area of disability. If the Individual Education Planning Team (IEP) determines that the behavior in question does not have a direct and significant relationship to the student's area of disability, the education agency may expel the student; however, a complete cessation of education services is not permissible. Expulsion constitutes change in placement which requires due process through the IEP Team action.

. Student Status During Proceedings-If administration or judicial remedy is requested as a result of disagreements with any disciplinary action which would result in a change of placement, the student with disabilities involved in the issue must remain in his/her present educational placement. If the education agency believes the student with disabilities poses an immediate threat to the safety of himself/herself or others, the education agency may request injunctive relief to have the student temporarily removed from the present educational placement until the issue is resolved. The emergency suspension shall be followed, as soon as practical, by an IEP Team meeting action, if a long term suspension or expulsion is contemplated. (Revised May 2, 1994)

G. Classifications of Violations and Sanctions

It is fundamental that orderly schools have clearly defined behaviors to which students must conform. Nonconformity to these behaviors becomes violations of the code of student conduct. Violations are grouped into four classes (Class I, Class II, Class III, and Class IV) which range from the least to the most serious. Appropriate school personnel shall investigate, verify and determine classification of

student conduct on a school campus, at school-related events, or while being transported to or from school-related events.

Below is a listing of each class of violations and possible sanctions. As the violations increase in seriousness, the severity of the possible sanctions increases.

CLASS I VIOLATIONS

1.01 Distraction of other students 1.02 Intimidation of a student 1.03 Unexcused tardiness-reporting late to class 1.04 Non-direct use of profane language or obscene manifestations (see 2.08) 1.05 Non-conformity of dress code (inappropriate gang related dress) 1.06 Disruption on a school bus 1.07 Inappropriate display of affection-including, but not limited to, embracing and kissing 1.08 Refusal to complete class assignments-including continued failure to bring materials to class 1.09 Failure to follow appropriate directives from a board of education employee (Administrator, teacher, counselor, teacher’s aide, substitute teacher, bus driver etc.) 1.10 Unauthorized use of school or personal property (radios, CD players, electronic games, iPods, MP3 players, laser light pointers, etc. ) 1.11 Littering of school property 1.12 Inappropriate displays of behavior-horseplay, shoving, tripping, rudeness-in hall, classroom, lunchroom, assembly, pep rally and/or other school-sponsored function

Multiple incidents of Class I violations will result in Class II sanctions.

*Any other violation which the principal may deem reasonable to fall within this category after investigation and consideration of extenuating circumstances.

CLASS I DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS Administrative responses for Class I violations may include, but are not limited to: Conference with student Verbal reprimand Written assignments School/Community service Withdrawal of privilege(s) Parent Conference(s) Temporary removal from class (including prohibiting student from attending special events, i.e. field trips) Detention In-school suspension Corporal Punishment Bus suspension Saturday School Other sanction(s) deemed necessary or appropriate by school administration

CLASS II VIOLATIONS

2.01 Insubordination, defiance, disrespectful of board of education employee’s authority; any verbal or non-verbal refusal to comply with a lawful direction of board of education employee 2.02 Vandalism/property damage-Intentional damage to public property ( i.e. desks, tables, bus seats); or real property of others; in all cases student shall make monetary restitution for damages.

2.03 Theft of property $50.00 or less 2.04 Gambling- any participation in games of chance for money and/or other things of value such as flipping coins, matching etc. 2.05 Possession of stolen property with the knowledge that it is stolen 2.06 Threats/extortion/harassment/bullying. 2.07 Trespassing/Illegal school entry- Breaking, entering or remaining in a structure or conveyance without jurisdiction and/or supervision during the hours the premises are closed to the public 2.08 Direct use or repeated non-direct use of profane language, obscene manifestation (verbal, written, electronic, gesture directed toward another person – (see 1.05) and/or possession of inappropriate or pornographic material 2.09 Malicious mischief or graffiti on school property or buses 2.10 Unauthorized absence from school and/or class/skipping 2.11 Written or verbal proposition to engage in sexual acts 2.12 Touching of another person (offensive touching or touching with sexual connotation) 2.13 Possession of and/or use of matches or lighters 2.14 Possession of/or use of electronic pager, laser light pointer, unauthorized communication devices (includes but not limited to IPods, MP3, electronic games, cell phones, BlackBerrys, two way radios, tape and CD players). 2.15 Providing false information to a board of education employee-intentionally providing false information to a school board employee including giving false student information or concealment of information directly relating to school business. This includes forgery of school notes, re-admittance slips, tardy slips, excuse slips, report cards, hall passes, field trip forms, notes from parents or guardians, or any other material required by the school. 2.16 Dishonesty and cheating 2.17 Unsafe/unlicensed driving on school property or other violations of the school parking/driving rules, sitting in vehicle, going to vehicle without permission. 2.18 Engaging in any act that is deemed harmful, including acts of aggression and practical jokes 2.19 Harassment-speech or other expression (written, electronic or gestures) intended to insult or stigmatize others on the basis of their sex, race, color, disability, religion, sexual orientation or national and ethnic origin. (Use of racial insults or slurs) 2.20 Violation of Medication Policy-(possession and/or use of prescription or non-prescription medication, inhalants, or over the counter products without following proper procedure.) 2.21 Multiple Class I Violations will result in Class II sanctions.

Multiple incidents of Class I and Class II violations will result in Class III sanctions

*Any other violation the principal deems reasonable to fall within this category after investigation and consideration of extenuating circumstances

CLASS II DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS Administrative responses for Class II violations may include, but are not limited to:

Temporary removal from class (including prohibiting students from attending school functions such as field trips etc.) Detention In-school suspension Corporal punishment Saturday school Out of school suspension Alternative education program Referral to outside agency Expulsion Other sanction(s) deemed necessary or appropriate by school administration

Subsequent violations may result in suspension up to five (5) school days plus additional disciplinary action as warranted. Special circumstances may warrant referral to the Alternative School, or the filing of a CHINS, Delinquent, or Dependent Complaint or Petition in Juvenile Court.

CLASS III VIOLATIONS

3.01 Fighting on school grounds, buses or school-related functions or events 3.02 Inciting or participating in major student disorder-leading, encouraging or assisting in disruption which results in destruction or damage of private property or personal injury to participants or others. 3.03 Unjustified activation of fire alarm system or fire extinguisher 3.04 Possession, Sale or Use of tobacco products. First offense, one day suspension, second offense, 2 weeks alternative school, third offense, disciplinary hearing. 3.04.a Tobacco products, use 3.04.b Tobacco products, possession 3.04.c Tobacco products, sale 3.05 Unauthorized use of school computers/violation of Internet policy. 3.06 Indecent exposure of the human body on school property, buses or at school-sponsored events or functions. 3.07 Extortion-the act of obtaining service, money or information by the use of threats 3.08 Aggressive contact/assault which causes physical harm 3.09 Robbery-The taking of money or other property (may subject the student to larceny) from the person or custody of another by force, violence, assault, or putting in fear of same. Restitution will be required. 3.10 Theft of property-The intentional unlawful taking and/or carrying away of property valued at $50.00 or more belonging to or in the lawful possession or custody of another. Restitution will be required. 3.11 Possession, sale, use, furnishing, or giving of a prohibited item not listed above. 3.11.a Possession of a prohibited item not listed above 3.11.b Sale of a prohibited item not listed above 3.11.c Use of a prohibited item not listed above 3.11.d Giving of a prohibited item not listed above 3.12 Threats, harassment, intimidation, bullying

Multiple Class I and II violations will result in Class III sanctions

*Any other offense which the principal may deem reasonable to fall within this category after investigation and consideration of extenuating circumstances

CLASS III DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS Administrative responses for Class III violations may include, but are not limited to:

Out-of-school suspension Alternative education program Referral to outside agency, including the criminal justice system Expulsion hearing Restitution of property and damages where appropriate Other sanctions deemed necessary or appropriate by school administration

CLASS IV VIOLATIONS 4.01 Sexual offense-Acts of a sexual nature which occur on school property, school buses or when the student is in attendance at a school sanctioned activity. These acts include but are not limited to battery, indecent exposure, intercourse with a student, attempted rape, or rape. 4.02 Assault/Battery on another person (student, teacher, staff member, visitor, etc). The unlawful and intentional touching or striking of a school board employee against his/her will or the

intentional causing of bodily harm to a school board employee. In accordance with the Code of Alabama, 16-1-24(b) (c), the principal shall notify appropriate law enforcement when any student violates board policy concerning physical harm or threatened physical harm against another student or employee of the Board. 4.03 Possession of a weapon-students are prohibited from bringing to the school campus, having in their possession on campus, on the bus or personal vehicle, or in their lockers any lethal weapon or facsimile, including but not limited to a firearm, bomb, fireworks, explosives, knife, hunting knife, bayonet, razor, razor blade, letter opener, ice pick, hat pin, metallic knuckles, tear gas gun, throwing star, chemical weapon or device, pepper gas or any other weapon, instrument or object 4.03.a Knife, possession 4.03.b Knife, sale 4.03.c Knife, use 4.03.d Other weapon, possession 4.03.e Other weapon, sale 4.03.f Other Weapon, use 4.04 Possession, sale and/or igniting explosive device 4.04.a Explosive/incendiary or poison gas, possession 4.04.b Explosive/incendiary or poison gas, sale 4.04.c Explosive/incendiary or poison gas, use 4.05 Possession of Firearms – any firearm (including a starter gun which will, or is designed to, or may already be convert to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive), the frame or receivers of any such weapon, with intent to do bodily harm on School System property, including a school bus, is a Class C felony. In accordance with the Code of Alabama, 16-1- 24.1 (b) (c), the principal shall notify appropriate law enforcement officials when any student violates Board policy concerning physical harm or threatened physical harm against another student or employee of the Board. 4.05.a Firearm, possession 4.05.b Firearm, sale 4.05.c Firearm, use

4.06 Crimes as defined under the laws of the city, county, State of Alabama, or United States 4.07 Arson-the willful and malicious burning of any school property. In accordance with the Code of Alabama, 16-1-24.1 (e) (2), parents are liable for damages to school property cause by their child (children). 4.08 Unlawful sale, purchase, furnishing or giving or possession of a) prescribed/non prescribed drugs (see definition and exceptions under Drugs and Medication ) b) illegal drug paraphernalia or c) alcoholic beverage-In accordance with the Code of Alabama 16.1.24.1 (b) (c) the principal shall notify appropriate law enforcement officials when any student violates Board policy concerning drugs and/or alcohol. 4.08.a Alcohol, possession 4.08.b Alcohol, sale 4.08.c Alcohol, use 4.08.d Alcohol, furnishing or giving 4.08.e Drugs, possession 4.08.f Drugs, sale 4.08.g Drugs, use 4.08.h Drugs, furnishing or giving 4.09 Bomb Threat- Any such communication concerning school board property that has the effect of interrupting the educational environment. Any student found to have made a bomb threat or to have falsely reported such a threat that is related to any school system facility, operation, or activity is subject to immediate expulsion procedures. Any student who stands by and aides, abets, or assists another person to make a bomb threat or to falsely report such a threat that is related to any school system facility, operation or activities is subject to immediate expulsion procedures. Any student who counsels, advises, persuades, encourages, or dares another person to make a bomb threat or to falsely report such a threat

that is related to any school system, facility, operation or activity is subject to immediate expulsion procedures.

Multiple Class II and Class III violations will result in Class IV sanctions. Class IV DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS All 5 steps apply. 1.-Parent/guardian notification and conference 2.-Notify the local police (or sheriff) 3.-Notify Juvenile Justice authority 4.-Immediate suspension pending a hearing (within 5 (five) school days) 5.-Initiation of procedures for an Administrative Hearing to consider a recommendation to the Superintendent of action(s) ranging from placement in an Alternative School to a recommendation for expulsion.

School principals must notify appropriate law enforcement officials when any person violates local board of education policies concerning drugs, alcohol, bomb threats, weapons, physical harm to a person, or threatened physical harm to a person. If that person is a student enrolled, the local school system shall immediately suspend that student from attending regular classes and schedule a hearing at the earliest possible date which shall not be later than five school days. The decision to initiate disciplinary action and/or initiate criminal charges against a student shall include a review and consideration of the student’s exceptional status, if applicable. Code of Alabama 16-1-14 (1975) (G) (Approved May 2, 2005) (G) Revised June 21, 2010 5.14 Textbooks Pupils are to sign for the books issued to them under a statement at the top of the page, which shall read:

"I agree to assume responsibility for the care and return of the books issued to me. I will not write in, tear, cut, deface, or permit the books to become wet. I understand that if I damage the books beyond normal wear that I will be assessed a fee for the damage. If I should lose a book, I agree to pay for it."

The condition of the book at the time it is issued to the student should be recorded by the number of the book according to one of the following terms: New, Good, Fair, Poor.

For loss or damage the pupil will be assessed as follows: 1. full price if new when issued 2. seventy-five percent of full price for books two years old, 3. fifty percent of full price for books three years old or older. No textbooks will be issued to any pupil until all charges for lost or damaged books have been paid. (Revised May 6, 1985)

All textbooks must be returned to the issuing school by the pupil when he is promoted or transferred or when he terminates his attendance for any other reason.

5.15 Visitors

Parents and others with business with school officials or personnel are encouraged to visit the schools. However, the protection of the students and the need to avoid disruption of the proper atmosphere for teaching-learning activities within schools necessitates regulations concerning such visits.

No person shall trespass or loiter in any school building or on any school grounds under the jurisdiction of the Blount County Board of Education.

All persons upon entering any school building of the Blount County School System shall report immediately to the office of the principal and request a visitor’s pass. All visitors to

a school shall be welcomed in a cordial manner and asked to certify with the school principal or his or her designee, who they are and their purpose for being in said school.

All parents or guardians or other authorized persons coming to school to check a student out of school must do so through the principal’s office via the school’s approved checkout plan. Such persons are not to go directly to classrooms for this purpose.

II. Trespassing No person shall remain in any school building or on the grounds thereof or on grounds owned and used by the individual school or School System after being requested to leave the school premises by a principal, counselor, teacher, any person assigned to the duties of custodian, or any member of the administrative staff of the Blount County School System. Any person who fails to comply with the provisions of any of the preceding sections shall be in violation of the rules and regulations of the Blount County Board of Education and the Law of the State of Alabama and shall be punished as provided by Public School Laws of the State of Alabama for trespassing.

The principal of each school, in cooperation with professional staff, shall design rules and procedures concerning visitors which satisfy the needs of that school. The primary purpose of such rules and procedures shall be to provide for the safety of students and staff and to facilitate the educational process. These rules will be printed in the Student Handbook and posted at the school entrances.

III. Visitors to the Schools and Facilities With Adult Sex Offender Status No adult sex offender, after having been convicted of a sex offense involving a minor, shall enter on the property of a K-12 school while school is in session or attend any school activity at any location unless the adult sex offender does all of the following:

Notifies the principal of the school, or his or her designee, a minimum of one regularly scheduled school day or 24 hours in advance of any event or activity in order to seek approval for their presence on the property or attendance at the K-12 school activities. Immediately reports to the principal of the school, or his or her designee, upon entering the property or arriving at the K-12 school activity. Complies with any procedures established by the school to monitor the whereabouts of the sex offender for the duration of his or her presence on the school property or attendance at the K-12 school activity.

No adult sex offender, after having been convicted of a sex offense involving a minor, shall loiter on or within 500 feet of the property on which there is a school, playground athletic field, athletic facility or school bus stop.

(1)Nothing in this policy shall be construed as imposing an affirmative duty on the school principal; the principal’s designee; any member of the school board, staff, faculty; or any other agent, representative, or other associated party of the school board to investigate or determine the sex offender status of any individual prior to, or upon, that individual’s entering on school property or arriving at a K-12 school activity. Source: Code of Alabama 15-20A-17 (Revised and Approved January 5, 2015) ((1) Revised and Approved October 3, 2016) 5.16 Medication

A Parent/Prescriber Authorization form must be completed and signed by the physician (prescriber) and the parent/guardian for prescription medication to be dispensed at school. The parent/legal guardian is responsible for having the medication forms completed and delivered to the school.

The parent/guardian must provide the school with medication that is in a correctly labeled prescription bottle/container. The parent/guardian or the parent designated responsible adult shall deliver ALL medications to the designated school personnel. The school personnel will count and document all controlled substances in the presence of a parent/guardian or parent designated responsible adult.

Non-prescription Medication:

The parent must complete and sign the Parent/Prescriber Authorization form. This medication must be in the original unopened container. Dosage will not exceed package directions for weight and/or age. Non-prescription medication may not be kept "on person" during the school day.

A Parent/Guardian Authorization for non-prescription medications is valid for nine weeks only. Parent/guardian has the option of submitting a new form after nine weeks, if warranted. After the nine-week period is over, the parent/guardian must pick up the medication. In order for the non- prescription medication to be valid for the entire school year, a physician/prescriber must sign the medication authorization form. If the medication is not picked up within two weeks after the parent/prescriber authorization expires, the medication will be discarded per federal guidelines.

The registered nurse will determine if non-prescription medications are appropriate and whether a provider order is also necessary.

On the last day of school, parents are responsible for picking up any remaining prescription or non- prescription medication. Designated school personnel will discard remaining medications in a manner consistent with federal guidelines.

School personnel will refuse to administer medication when there is any discrepancy, i.e. label is different from instructions, label is unclear, or label is torn. This medication will not be given until clarification is obtained.

All medications to be administered by school personnel shall be kept in a securely locked cabinet, substantially constructed, and anchored securely to a solid surface.

(Revised May 4, 2009) (Revised and approved May 7, 2007) (Revised March 3, 2003) (Revised June 14, 2001)

5.17 Student Records

Records of attendance and scholastic progress as well as vital statistics and significant health facts are maintained under the direction of the principal of each school in the system. A copy of certain student information is filed in the office of the Superintendent. Upon graduation the educational record is destroyed except for the permanent record containing semester averages, attendance, vital statistics, significant health facts, scores on standardized tests, and graduation date.

(Revised May 7, 1990) (Revised May 4, 1987) (Revised August 18, 1975)

Professional and paraprofessional personnel in the school system having a legitimate educational reason have access to the student records. Persons or agencies having legitimate educational interests who obtain access to a student's records are required to sign a written form indicating specifically the legitimate educational or other interest of such person or agency. They may have access thereto without the written consent of the parents or legal guardians. No other person, except

where specifically authorized by law, have access to these records without the written consent of the parent or the student provided that he is 18 years of age.

The only exception to the above is the information published in the student directory and/or yearbook which is as follows: Name of student, home address, phone number, grade or classification in school, membership in school clubs and organizations, honors received, participation in sports and other such general information. In order for a school to release the above information in a student directory, the principal must provide notice to all parents of the school's intent to declare this information as directory information. Parents have the right to request that the names and addresses of their children be deleted from the directory information. (Revised May 2, 1994) Questions in regard to student records should be directed to the principal. Parents may inspect and review all cumulative or permanent records relating to their children. Requests for access to such records shall be granted by the principal within a reasonable period of time. The period of time must not be longer than 45 days after the initial contact and request. The principal may require that inspection be made in his presence.

The principal or superintendent may release personally identifiable student record information to authorized education and government agencies. All other release of student record information shall be made only upon the written request of the parent or the student provided he has attained 18 years of age.

Student records, including students currently receiving special education and related services, must be transferred to the requesting school without the requirement of obtaining a written permission statement from the applicable parent or guardian. (Revised May 3, 1993) (Revised June 11, 1979) Health and Safety

In consideration of health and safety emergencies, schools may disclose student information to appropriate parties in connection with an emergency if knowledge of information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or others. Schools may also disclose information about certain disciplinary actions taken against students to officials of other schools. (Added June 13, 2007)

Parents of students under 18 years of age and students 18 years of age or older are entitled to the right to request a hearing to challenge the content in the student's records. Such request must be made to the principal in writing. The principal must grant such a hearing with proper notification to the person eligible to request such a hearing as to the place and time of said hearing. The hearing should be scheduled within a reasonable period of time. The period of time must not be longer than 45 days after the receipt of the written request for such hearing.

The person or persons requesting such hearing shall have the right to challenge the content in the student's records and to state reasons and evidence for the challenge. The principal shall make a decision within five (5) school days after the hearing and make his decision known to the person(s) eligible to request the hearing.

In regard to student records, the rights of parents pass to students at age 18.

If the parent(s) or eligible student so desires, copies of the student's records will be made at the cost of $.25 per page. The principal must produce such copies within 45 days after receipt of such request.

Consent of a parent or eligible student to release records should state the type of information to be released, the reason, the name(s) of the parties to receive the information and it should be dated and

signed. A record of all parties requesting or obtaining access to records, other than authorized school personnel, should be kept with the records of each student. (Revised August 18, 1975)

Notification of Rights under FERPA for Parents and Students

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are: (1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.

Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend a record should write the School principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.

The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except the extent that FERPA authorized disclosure without content.

One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the School 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 has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using its own employees or officials (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 school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the School discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

The school may disclose directory information for public consumption without requesting parental consent. Directory information is defined as student information not generally considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. This information includes, but is not limited to: student names, addresses, telephone listings, photographs, grade level, participation in activities and sports, weight and height of athletic team members, and honors and awards received. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the school to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain school publications. Examples include: programs, yearbooks, honor rolls, graduation recognition, and sports publications. Similar informational data may also be released to local newspapers, or included in school related video presentations, etc.

Directory information can also be disclosed to outside organizations that provide student-based products and services without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings, publish yearbooks, provide photographs, graduation products, sporting goods, etc. In addition, two federal laws require schools receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories – names, addresses, and telephone listings – unless parents have advised the school that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without prior written consent.

If the parent/guardian does not want the school to disclose directory information without prior written consent, you must notify the school in writing.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-5920

(Revised May 29, 2009)

5.18 Student Fees

Students enrolled in the following courses are required to pay the following annual fees upon registration for each school year except that students may make arrangements with the principal for deferred payment of the fees: Blount County Career Technical Center Lab $40.00(4)

Keyboarding Class (Junior High Pre-Typing) $ 5.00(2)

Family and Consumer Science $20.00 (4)

Vocational Agriscience and Technology $20.00 (3)

Driver Education $25.00

Band* $30.00

Computer Education $25.00 (1)

*Band fee is optional with each school

A student's financial inability to pay the above fees shall not prohibit him from enrolling and completing the school year and the courses listed above. The parents of a student who is unable to pay the fee or fees due to financial inability must complete the form entitled "School Fees Exemption Claim Form" supplied by the Superintendent of Education and available in the principal's office. The principal shall make a determination on the exemption claim within five days. His decision is subject to review by the Superintendent.

The fee in any course listed above shall be waived for any student provided that the course is a requirement for the diploma pursued by the student.

All fees collected in the courses listed above must be receipted and all funds expended for instructional supplies and expenses in the course. The Superintendent may require that the principal supply documents to support collections and expenditures in each course.

This policy is effective with the 1984-85 school year. (4) (Revised April 4, 2005) (3) (Revised June 14, 2001) (2)(Revised May 1, 1995) (1)(Revised May 3, 1993) (Revised May 7, 1990) (Revised May 1, 1989) (Revised May 7, 1984)

5.19 Students Leaving School During the School Day

A student shall remain in school for the full instructional day except when the student is earning high school or college credit through cooperative education, clinical experiences, college level course work, through cooperative arrangements with a post-secondary institution, or while participating in job training and work experiences. A student must be in academic and conduct good standing as determined by the school principal, on track to graduate with a recognized diploma or as required by the student's Individualized Education Program. (Revised May 4, 2009) 5.20 Student Complaints and Grievances Procedure

Grievances

Level One-The resolution of a grievance through free and informal communications as close as possible to the point of origin is encouraged. A student with a grievance may first take it to his immediate teacher or principal. Both shall be consulted prior to further resolution procedures.

Level Two-In the event the aggrieved person is not satisfied with the disposition of his grievance at Level One, he may file an appeal in writing with the Superintendent or his designee. Within ten (10) days from receipt of the grievance, he shall request a conference with the aggrieved or render a written decision.

Level Three-In the event the aggrieved person is not satisfied with the disposition of his grievance at Level Two, he may request the Superintendent or his designee to schedule a brief hearing before the Board of Education at its next regular meeting.

The aggrieved person may select a representative to accompany him at each level, may ask such representative to state the facts in written form, and may request a written decision at each level outlined above. The grievance procedure must be initiated at the level at which the grievance occurred, and all requirements specified must be observed by students and school officials.

For the discussion and consideration of a grievance, time and place will be selected which will not interfere with regular scheduled classes or school related activities. The faculty and administration shall make an honest effort to resolve student grievances as quickly as possible at the most immediate level of supervision. (Revised May 2, 1994)

Confidentiality

To the greatest extent possible, all complaints and/or grievances will be treated as confidential.

Limited disclosure may be necessary to complete a thorough investigation. The school’s and district’s obligation to investigate and take corrective action may supersede an individual’s right to privacy.

The complainant’s identity shall be protected, but absolute confidentiality cannot be guaranteed. The identity of the victim of a reported act shall be protected to the extent possible.

Retaliation Prohibited

Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, any form of intimidation, reprisal or harassment in connection with filing a complaint or assisting with an investigation.

B. Retaliatory or intimidating conduct against any individual who has made a complaint or any individual who has testified, assisted, or participated, in any manner, in an investigation is specifically prohibited and as detailed in this policy shall be treated as an incidence of bullying or harassment.

C. During the investigation, the principal/designee may take any action necessary to protect the complainant, other students or employees consistent with the requirements of applicable regulations and statutes. (Revised May 4, 2009)

5.21 System-Wide Core Curriculum for Grades 7-12 Refer to Policy 5.5 Graduation Requirements

5.22 Head Lice (Pediculosis) Guidelines for Pediculosis Screening

All classes, K– 6th grade will be checked by teachers. Routine checks will be performed every other Friday or as scheduled and should be completed by 8:30 a.m. Additionally, checks will be performed the second day of class at the beginning of the school year and the day students return from specified holidays and breaks.

All changes to the pediculosis screening schedule must be approved by the Central Office. Students that are absent will be screened on the following school day and guidelines followed. A school plan should be established to allow for a trained teacher or designated person (s) to check classes where a substitute is in place of an absent teacher.

All findings shall be documented using the approved forms. If evidence of pediculosis, bugs or nits, is found, the identified students’ names should be listed on the Pediculosis Screening List and delivered confidentially to the re-checker as soon as possible.

The re-checker should either call or send for the identified students. The re-checker is responsible for confirming the evidence of pediculosis. Regardless of the findings, the student should be sent back to the classroom. Hopefully, this will decrease the amount of attention that causes the student to be stigmatized.

If a student is positive for pediculosis, parents should be notified to pick up the child as soon as possible. Siblings of the positive students in grades 7-12 should be brought to the office and checked by the designated person.

A letter (Form A) stating that evidence of pediculosis was found, and the general information sheet should be given to the parent along with verbal and demonstrated instructions. The parent should sign, in the designated space, acknowledging receipt of the letter. A copy of this letter should be placed in the individual student’s pediculosis file each time he/she is newly identified. If the student is picked up by the parent or guardian, a signature should be obtained at this time. In a case where the student was not picked up from school, the signature should be obtained when the student is re- checked for clearance.

When the student returns to school, he/she must be brought in by the parent/guardian to be screened by the designated person. Rechecks should be completed within the first two hours of the school day. When cleared, the student will receive a Return to Class Pass that shall be taken to the school’s office for re-admittance.

The student must be free of ALL NITS and LICE before being readmitted to school. A doctor’s or health department’s excuse does not preempt these readmission requirements!

If a student is not clear and is sent back home, the parent or guardian should be given additional verbal and demonstrated instruction on checking their child’s head plus another copy of the general information sheet.

Nits should not be pulled from the student’s hair by school personnel.

The school nurse may notify the school social worker if the student has not returned for a recheck within two days.

A copy of all information given to the parent/guardian must be copied and placed in the student’s pediculosis file. Records must be kept up-to-date. This document serves as a legal record of the dates/times when a student has been sent home and when the student has been cleared to return to school.

The day the student is identified with bugs or nits AND/OR sent home will be the only excused absence. Routine screenings are done on Friday giving the parent extra days to clear the child of head lice.

The school should be aware of health hazards which may provide for spreading of lice, i.e., mats, proximity of coats and jackets on racks, and listening station earphones.

When a case of pediculosis is suspected prior to the biweekly check, the teacher must screen the entire class. The teacher may not screen an individual student or may not refer the student to the school nurse unless the entire class has been screened. If evidence of pediculosis is found, guidelines must be followed. (Revised May 4, 2009) (Revised June 14, 2001) (Revised May 20, 1999) (Revised May 15, 1997)

5.23 Alternative School Program

The Blount County Board of Education recognizes that all members of the school community should be served in order that they might develop academically, physically, socially and mentally to become members of society. With the implementation of this program, the Blount County Board of Education endeavors to provide a means to retain those students whose behavior requires removal from the regular school setting.

A. Objectives of the Alternative Program

1. To meet minimum state academic requirements 2. To improve behavior of students 3. To help students become more responsible 4. To improve student self-concept 5. To improve attendance 6. To provide a highly structured and closely supervised school environment 7. To reduce number of at-risk students leaving school before graduating

B. Organization 1. The Alternative School shall operate under the direct supervision of the lead teacher at the school. 2. Students who attend the Alternative School shall be in attendance for the entire school day and meet the State Board of Education requirement concerning a six-hour instructional day. 3. The Alternative School shall observe all policies of the Blount County Board of Education 4. The teacher at the Alternative School shall keep a Teacher's Attendance Register and file monthly reports with the principal of each applicable school. The attendance data for that student will be included in the student's base school. C. Guidelines 1. The local school principal may recommend a student for assignment to the Alternative School for the following reasons:

Possession or use of drugs or alcohol, violent behavior, possession of a weapon, chronic disruptive behavior, any offense causing danger to the student or other students and teachers, or violation of any Board policy.

2. The Superintendent or his designee will decide after a hearing of the facts if the recommended placement is appropriate. The exception to this will be the second offense of tobacco use or possession which will be an automatic placement of two weeks in the Alternative School with the beginning date being determined by the Superintendent in coordination with the Alternative supervisor. (Revised May 20, 1999)

3. The parent and student will be required to sign an agreement stating that the student's behavior must be corrected before the student will be readmitted to the local school.

4. The parent and/or student will be responsible for transportation to the Alternative School. (Revised August 18, 2006.)

5. The student will be assigned for a period as determined by the Superintendent or designee in conjunction with Principal/Assistant Principal and the Alternative School Supervisor. The exceptions are: (1) a second offense of the tobacco policy which will be an automatic two week period assigned by the principal, and (2) students who bring a weapon (firearm) to school must be assigned to a one year (365 days) except as provided for otherwise in Board Policies.

6. A student who does not alter his or her behavior may be referred to the Board by the teacher at the Alternative School with the concurrence of the local school principal.

7. There will be no field trips, parties or free time for students at the Alternative School.

8. Students at the Alternative School shall not interact with or participate in athletics and in extra-curricular activities at the local schools at any time.

9. A student enrolled at the Alternative School shall not be allowed to attend any school functions unless such functions are open to the public. An Alternative School student shall be subject to the same rules, regulations and laws that apply to the public while attending public school functions.

10. Rules and regulations for the day to day operation of the Alternative School shall be developed by the teacher at the Alternative School. Such rules and regulations must be written and made available to students.

11. Regular attendance is mandatory. All absences must be for excused reasons documented by statements from doctors or documentation from other authorities attesting to the legality of the absence. Any unexcused absence must be made up plus two additional days

12. Students who do not attend regularly or who drop out will be reported to the Juvenile Court and parents/guardians of the students will be reported to the District Attorney as provided by Alabama law. (Revised May 20, 1999) (Revised May 15, 1997) D. Curriculum and Instruction

1. The instructional needs of individual students will be met based upon plans forwarded from the local school. All appropriate skills and/or lesson plans will be provided by the local school.

2. Each student transferring to the Alternative School shall bring textbooks which he or she is currently using in the local school.

3. The teacher(s) at the Alternative School shall administer and return major examinations to the student's home school for grading.

4. Grades will be determined at the local school by averaging current grades with grades earned at the Alternative School. All standardized tests shall be taken at the local school except for students found to have violated the weapons policy. Tests for those students must be administered at the Alternative School.

5. The graduation eligibility of senior students attending the Alternative School shall be determined by the local principal.

6. Students must be taught character education, nonviolent conflict resolution, responsibility, group problem solving, and satisfaction through academic achievement.

E. Exit Conference

Upon completing the assigned period, a conference will be held involving the principal or the assistant principal of the local school, the parent, the student and the teacher at the Alternative School to discuss the progress made by the student.

All grades, attendance records and other pertinent material shall be given to the principal upon the student's departure from the school. (Revised June 3, 1996)

5.24 Sexual Harassment

Prohibited conduct

Students shall not engage in conduct constituting sexual harassment. Sexual harassment, whether between students or between a student and an employee, is illegal and will not be tolerated. The Board will investigate all allegations of sexual harassment and take appropriate action against students who engage in sexual harassment. Sanctions against students for violation of this policy may include verbal or written warning, suspension, or expulsion.

Definition

Sexual harassment is defined to include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when the advances, requests, or conduct have the effect of interfering with performance of school related activities or creating an intimidating, hostile, or otherwise offensive environment in or about the school or school facility.

Complaint Procedure

A student who believes he or she has been or is being subjected to any form of sexual harassment shall immediately report the matter to the school counselor, principal or the Superintendent. Any student who becomes aware of or suspects that a student is being sexually harassed shall immediately report the information to the school counselor, principal or the Superintendent. A student's request to make his or her report of sexual harassment to someone of the same sex as the student shall be granted.

No student alleging sexual harassment shall be required to present the matter to the person who is the subject of the complaint.

If the complaint is received by someone other than the school principal, the person receiving the complaint shall promptly inform the school principal. The principal shall start an immediate investigation into the matter. The custodial parent(s) of the student will be informed of the complaint. The completed investigation shall be reviewed by the Superintendent or the Superintendent's designee and legal counsel for prompt and appropriate action, if warranted. A written response to the student's complaint will be provided to the custodial parent(s) of the student and the student within 45 days of the date the student first registered the complaint. The student or the custodial parent(s) of the student may appeal the decision within 10 days of receipt of the decision by filing a written notice of appeal with the Superintendent. The Superintendent shall present the decision and notice of appeal to the Board at the next scheduled meeting of the Board. The Board shall make a final decision and notify the student and the custodial parent(s) of the student in writing of the Board's decision.

Protection of Complainant

No student shall be subject to adverse action for any good faith report of sexual harassment under this policy. To the fullest extent practical, all reports of sexual harassment will be kept confidential.

(Added May 2, 1994)

5.25 Voluntary Student Religious Expression and Prayer

Religious Expression

The Blount County Board of Education does not discriminate against students or their parents or guardians on the basis of their religious viewpoints or their expression of such viewpoints. Such views and expressions are treated in the same manner as nonreligious viewpoints, activities, or expressions. The Board shall treat a student’s voluntary expression of a religious viewpoint, if any, on an otherwise permissible subject in the same manner the Board treats a student’s voluntary expression of a secular or other viewpoint on an otherwise permissible subject and may not discriminate against the student based on a religious viewpoint expressed by the student on an otherwise permissible subject.

Students may express their beliefs about religion in homework, artwork, and other written and oral assignments free from discrimination based on the religious content of their submissions. Homework and classroom assignments shall be judged by ordinary academic standards of substance and relevance and against other legitimate pedagogical concerns identified by the Board. Students may not be penalized or rewarded on account of the religious content of their work. A student’s academic work that expresses a religious viewpoint shall be evaluated based on ordinary academic standards of substance and relevance to the course curriculum or requirements of the course work or assignment.

Students may organize and participate in religious activities before, during, and after school and have access to school facilities to the same extent students are permitted to organize and participate in other non-curricular activities to the extent that such access to or use of Board facilities does not constitute a constitutionally impermissible endorsement or sponsorship of the organization or violate any right established or imposed by either the Alabama or United States Constitutions.

Students in Blount County Schools may wear clothing, accessories and jewelry that display religious messages or religious symbols in the same manner and to the same extent that other types of clothing, accessories and jewelry that display messages or symbols are permitted.

Nothing herein shall be construed to authorize the Blount County Board of Education, its Superintendent, officers, members, administrators and/or employees to require any student or person to participate in prayer or in any other religious activity or to violate the constitutional rights of any student or person.

Nothing herein shall be constructed to limit the authority of the Blount County Board of Education, its Superintendent, officers, members, administrators and/or employees to do any of the following: Maintain order and discipline in the schools in a content and viewpoint neutral manner, Protect the safety of students, employees, and visitors of the schools, and Adopt and enforce policies and procedures regarding student speech at school provided that the policies and procedures do not violate the rights of students as guaranteed by the United States and Alabama constitutions and laws.

The provisions of this policy shall apply to all religions. ACT of Alabama No. 2015-129 (Board approved March 7, 2016)

B. Voluntary Prayer at School Related Events

In order that students may exercise their freedoms of speech and religion as guaranteed by the Alabama and United States Constitutions without government direction, support or intervention, and to maintain a neutral position for the state on all religious matters and not to advance as state action any religion, the Alabama State Board of Education directed that each school board implement the following policy concerning voluntary prayer on public school or other public property, or other property at school-related events:

All Blount County Board of Education officials, employees or agents shall maintain a neutral position concerning students' religious matters and shall accommodate students' rights as guaranteed by the Alabama and United States Constitutions. A student's giving of a prayer, invocation or benediction at any school-related assembly, school- related student sporting event, school-related graduation or commencement ceremony or any other school-related student event shall be at the personal decision of a participating student. Any such prayer, invocation or benediction shall be nonsectarian and non-proselytizing in nature. This policy shall in no way limit the rights of students to engage in prayer or religious activity at such other times and places, on public school or other public property, or other property as permitted by the Alabama and United States Constitutions. Any order or finding by a court of competent jurisdiction concerning that enforceability or constitutionality of Alabama Acts 93-850 on voluntary school prayer shall not affect the validity or enforceability of this policy.

(Note-Alabama State Attorney General Jimmy Evans issued an advisory opinion in November, 1993, stating that the regulation adopted by the Alabama State Board of Education on voluntary prayer at school related events is constitutional.)

(Added May 2, 1994)

5.26 Exceptional Children

The Blount County Board of Education ensures that all children residing within the jurisdiction, age 3 to 21, regardless of the severity of the disability that need special education and related services are identified, located, and evaluated and provided a free appropriate public education as established by state and federal regulations.

Each disabled student will be given the opportunity to participate in all extra-curricular activities and field trips which are offered to his/her non-disabled peers.

Intellectually gifted children are those who perform or who have demonstrated the potential to perform at high levels in academic or creative fields when compared to others of their age, experience, or environment. These children and youth require services not ordinarily provided by the regular school program. Children and youth possessing these abilities can be found in all populations, across all economic strata and in all areas of human endeavor. Gifted students may be found within any race, ethnicity, gender, economic class, or nationality. In addition, some students with disabilities may be gifted.

A student may be referred for consideration for gifted services by teachers, counselors, administrators, parents or guardians, peers, self, or any other individuals with knowledge of the student’s abilities. Additionally, all second grade students will be observed as potential gifted referrals using a gifted behavior checklist provided by the State Department of Education. Parents will be informed when their child is referred.

For each student referred, information is gathered in the following three areas: Aptitude Characteristics Performance The scores from the assessments/items used are entered on a matrix where points are assigned according to established criteria. The total number of points earned determines if the student qualifies for gifted services.

For more information or a referral contact Becky Brothers McGowan, Special Education Coordinator. (Revised May 6, 2013) (Revised November 2012)

(Revised June 2010) (Revised June 10, 2003) (Revised May 2, 1994) (Revised July 11, 1989) (Revised May 5, 1986) (Revised June 11, 1979)

5.27 Child Nutrition Program Charged Meal Policy

Each cafeteria will operate a computerized point of sale system with a system-wide database. Student meal accounts will follow their attendance site.

Parents/Guardians are encouraged to maintain a sufficient balance in their child’s account to pay for meals or should send money on a daily basis to cover meal costs.

The CNP Manager will manage low and negative balances through a weekly report to parents. In addition, notices of past due accounts will be sent home as a reminder to parents that their child owes money on their lunch account. Students with negative balances will not be allowed to purchase extra items in the cafeteria. Students with negative balances that have not been paid in a timely manner will be referred to the principal for assistance with collection.

Charged meals are not considered an allowable expense. Therefore, all uncollected charges will be the responsibility of the school where the child’s attendance is maintained. At the end of the school year the principal will reimburse the CNP from non-public school funds for any uncollected charges.

Revised May 22, 2019 Approved and added June 4, 2012 Approved and added July 1, 2010

Section VI - Business and Management

6.1 Board Policies

It shall be the Board's responsibility to make available to each employee a copy of the Board policies and to provide each principal with a copy of amendments to Board policies within five days after amendment is made.

It shall be the principal's responsibility to make available to each teacher a copy of the amendments to Board policies within five school days after he received a copy of amendments from the Board.

6.2 Accounting A. Central Office

(1) All accounting and reporting procedures in the Superintendent's office and in all school offices shall be in accordance with (2)generally accepted accounting principles and comply with federal, state, and local rules and regulations. No payments shall be made unless authorized by the Board. The Board will minimize the time between the receipt of federal funds from the US Treasury, the Alabama Department of Education, or other pass-through entity, and the disbursement of those federal funds. Federal funds will only be requested to meet immediate cash needs for reimbursement not covered by prior receipts and anticipated disbursements that are generally fixed, such as monthly program salaries and benefits.

The Chief School Financial Officer will maintain financial records that account for the receipt, obligation, and expenditure of each federal program fund. Cash balances for each federal program fund and for the aggregate of all federal program funds will be monitored daily by the Chief School

Financial Officer or designee. Before instituting a financial transaction that will require the expenditure of federal funds the federal program director and the Chief School Financial Officer or designee will determine that the proposed transaction meets the requirements for allowable cost for the federal program.

(1) All monies received in the name of the board shall be handled by a designated person. A complete record shall be kept of receipts and expenditures. (2) All funds will be maintained in insured checking accounts that are subject to the state requirements for public deposits under the SAFE program. (1)Revised April 6, 2015) (2) Revised October 3, 2016

All local school financial reporting shall be incorporated into the Board’s financial records, as local schools are subsidiaries of the Board. Local schools shall submit an annual budget to the Superintendent to be incorporated into the Board’s Annual Budget. (Revised July 26, 2005)

B. Local School

In accordance with the laws and with the state school board policies, the principal shall be responsible for the proper handling of all business affairs in his/her school, including collections, banking, budgeting, spending, recording and reporting. (Revised August 18, 1975)

Only public school employees duly authorized shall receive and disburse public school funds on behalf or in the name of the local school. The Board prohibits the Principal and/or any employee at a school from borrowing any funds from any source in the name of the school or the Board of Education without first obtaining approval by the Board of Education and the written approval of the Superintendent of Education.

(Revised April 6, 2015)

All funds collected in a school shall be spent for the purpose for which they were collected, unless otherwise authorized by the Superintendent. Receipts shall be given for all money received into the individual school's general fund.

Each principal shall submit to the Superintendent a monthly financial report which shows the financial status of his/her school. The report shall be prepared on forms supplied by the Board.

Financial records in each school shall be reviewed for compliance with Board Accounting Policies and Procedures at the end of each school year by independent certified public accountants as designated by the Board. Each school will pay the first $500 of the engagement cost and the Board will pay any amount in excess of the $500 for each school from the Board’s General Fund. (Revised July 26, 2005) (Revised June 15, 2011)

The Superintendent of Education shall prepare a manual entitled “Accounting Regulations for Schools” to provide local school principals specific instructions on matters relating to financial accounting. The manual may be revised upon recommendation of the Superintendent and approval by the Board of Education. Once the manual is approved by the Board of Education, all principals and other employees must follow the regulations. (Revised April 6, 2015) (Revised May 2, 1988) 6.3 Purchasing

All purchases made at the county level through requisitions and purchase orders shall be approved by the Superintendent. (2) Alabama Competitive Bid Laws (Chapter 13B of Title 16, Code of AL 1975), Joint Information Technology (Chapter 13B of Title 16, Code of AL 1975) and Public Works Law (Title 39, Code of AL 1975) procedures shall be followed. Bids on all purchases, subject to the state bid law, of $15,000 and greater shall be obtained by the Superintendent based upon prior specifications as written by the Board or their agents. Preference shall be given to local firms in making purchases as long as quality of service and product is not sacrificed and the provisions of the State of Alabama bid law are followed. (2) To the extent allowed by state laws, the Board will utilize state, local, regional and national purchasing agreements where appropriate for the procurement of use of goods and services. All procurement transactions are subject to the board’s Conflict of Interest Policy.

(2)Procurement transactions for federal programs and child nutrition programs that are not subject to the state procurement laws, but exceed the aggregate amount of the federal micro-purchase threshold, will be obtained by utilizing price or rate quotes from two or more qualified sources.

The Board of Education will advertise all invitations for bids by posting copies at the Blount County Courthouse and by placing copies in the U. S. Postal Service mail to the last known address of applicable vendors. The Board encourages minority-owned and/or minority-managed business enterprises to bid or make proposals.

Lease-purchase contracts may be entered into for a duration period of not greater than ten (10) years (ACT 94-801 effective May 6, 1994). All lease-purchase contracts/agreements must be approved by the Superintendent of Education and the Board of Education prior to being entered into by any employee of the Board of Education. ( (2) Revised October 3, 2016 (Revised May 1, 1995) (Revised May 2, 1994) (Revised June 1, 1992) (Revised May 7, 1990) (Revised August 5, 1985)

All purchases made for and in the name of an individual school shall be authorized by the principal. Requisitions for supplies and equipment charged against an individual school shall be paid only with the prior approval of the principal.

Purchasing shall be continuously exploratory and experimental. Fixed and unchangeable business relations shall be avoided. Those responsible for purchases shall make decisions about where to purchase in the light of reliable information which can be brought to bear on purchasing.

6.4 Records

School records shall conform to the state register and uniform bookkeeping system as specified by the State of Alabama and the Blount County Board of Education.

Lunchroom records shall be kept as directed by the State of Alabama and the Blount County Board of Education.

6.5 Bonding

All employees are covered under the Public Employees Blanket Bond provided by the Board of Education in the amount of $100,000. The Superintendent and Chief School Financial Officer must have an individual surety bond in the amount of $100,000 each. (Revised April 6, 2015) (Board approved June 10, 2010)

6.6 Liability

The Board and its employees assume no responsibility for any accident on or off the school grounds to any child, parent or spectator. All school personnel shall exercise reasonable care in avoiding accidents or removing those objects that may cause accidents. Should any injury occur to a member of any athletic team or to any official, the Board and its employees are not liable.

Any person entering upon the school grounds or upon any property or vehicle or riding in or upon any vehicle owned or under the control of the Board does so at his own risk.

Liability shall be assumed by the State of Alabama the same as all state liabilities of other agencies.

6.7 Insurance of Personnel

School accident insurance to cover injuries at school shall be made available to all students and Board personnel at the individual’s expense. The Board shall select the company to insure all personnel.

Individual schools shall make available appropriate accident insurance for all school athletes. The athlete may be required to provide payment for his insurance. No child shall be allowed to play on an athletic team without adequate accident/or health insurance coverage. It is the responsibility of the coach and the principal to see that every athlete is adequately covered by insurance.

6.8 Maintenance of Buildings and Grounds

The principal of the local school is in charge of seeing that building maintenance and operations such as heat, light, water and sanitary supplies are provided.

Custodians work at the discretion of the school principal. The principal will determine the regular start time and ending time to accommodate the school schedule. Custodians are expected to work an 8 hour day.

Revised May 6, 2013 6.9 Solicitations A. School Related

Income from all school money drives shall be used only for school affairs; expenditures of such funds must have direct approval of the principal.

Annual money drives shall be under the direct supervision of the principal or the teacher whom he/she designates. Occasional money drives must be approved by the principal and supervised by whomever he/she designates.

B. Non-School Related

No solicitations by students for any purpose other than school related activities shall be allowed except by specific approval of the principal.

No person, including those employed by the Board, will be permitted to solicit business from or conduct personal business with teachers during school hours; neither will he/she be permitted to approach teachers about appointments in school or on school grounds during school hours.

No person, except those approved by the Superintendent and/or principal, shall be permitted to enter any school for the purpose of selling to students, teachers, or other personnel.

Advertising matter seeking contributions from teachers or students shall not be displayed in or about school buildings unless for educational purposes approved by the Superintendent or principal.

Free advertising materials shall be approved by the principal before distribution to students.

C. Deliveries

Vendors, outside organizations, or individuals shall be prohibited from making deliveries (of flowers, balloons, candy, gifts, etc.) during the school day to students. (Revised May 15, 1997) (Revised May 4, 1987)

6.10 Length of School Day and Year

The school day shall consist of 6 (six) hours (360 minutes) of instructional time per day. This instructional time shall not be interrupted by unscheduled visitors, extracurricular activities or fundraising activities. Only emergency public address announcements shall be made during periods of instruction.

The principal of each school shall submit the beginning and closing time of the school day for the approval of the Superintendent prior to the beginning of each school term and prior to any change during the school term.

The Board of Education authorizes the Superintendent or his designee to announce the closing of schools if prevailing or potential hazards threaten the safety and well being of pupils and employees. The decision to close schools shall be made by the Superintendent or his designee after conferring, when possible, with the Board and other community agencies responsible for the safety and well being of the community. Public announcements and releases to news media shall be made by the Superintendent or his designee.

The scholastic or school year shall begin on July 1 and end on June 30 of the following year.

Teacher contracts shall be for a minimum of 187 workdays per year. Employee contract days above and beyond actual class instruction days shall be used for such activities as organized professional growth programs, record keeping, and school opening/closing routines.

The instructional year shall consist of a minimum of 179 days of not less than 6 hours of instructional time per day. (Revised July, 2006) (Revised August 6, 1984)

The Board shall set the opening and closing dates of school and shall comply with State Board regulations concerning the length of the school year.

Graduation must not be scheduled for a date before the closing day of school.

6.11 Air Conditioning

Requests for installation of air conditioning equipment in areas of buildings not already air conditioned shall be made to the principal of the school who will contact the Supervisor of Building Maintenance who will determine if it is feasible to install the equipment in the designated building. The Supervisor of Building Maintenance shall make his recommendation to the Superintendent of Education who will make a determination on whether to present the recommendation to the Board of Education for approval or disapproval of the installation of the equipment. (Revised May 7, 1990) 6.12 Board Owned Vehicles

All motor vehicles owned by the Board shall be used for official business only. Excepting school buses and bus drivers, only those vehicles designated by the Superintendent and/or Board may be driven to the residence of those employees so authorized. Reports of use of vehicles shall be made to the Superintendent as he may deem necessary.

All Board of Education owned vehicles driven to the residences of employees are not to be used for private or personal use such as being driven to church, doctors' offices, retail stores, or any other place or function unless the employee is performing his/her duties as an employee of the Blount County Board of Education. Vehicles should be driven directly home at the end of the work day, parked and left unused until the employees are to return to work at which time the vehicles should be driven directly to the employees' place of employment. Vehicles driven to the residences of employees for the weekend must be parked and left unused until the employees return to work on the following workday unless said employees are called to return to work during the weekend for emergency reasons.

An employee violating this policy shall be subject to reimbursing the Board for the cost of operating the vehicles and be subject to a reprimand and/or to termination of employment. (Revised August 5, 1985)

6.13 Acceptance of Gifts by Employees

All employees are expressly prohibited from accepting personal gifts from vendors with whom they conduct school business in their positions with the school system. Nominal gifts such as meals, beverages, etc., are exempt from this policy. Failure to comply with this policy will subject an employee to disciplinary measures which may include dismissal from employment. For the purpose of this policy, money is considered a gift. (Added May 3, 1982)

6.14 Payroll Deduction Requirements

The Board will deduct group insurance plans, non-political membership dues and voluntary contributions from employee salaries upon receipt of written request to do so from the employees’ organization. A minimum of ten percent of all employees is required for the establishment of a new deduction subject to Board approved regulations and guidelines for insurance and annuity plans (4). The organization must provide membership lists and voluntary contribution authorizations signed by the employees indicating the amount to be deducted from each paycheck and the amount to be deducted during the contract year. Existing deductions may be reviewed periodically and may be discontinued if participation drops significantly below the ten percent requirement. (3) (Revised April 6, 2015)

The following provisions shall govern membership dues and voluntary contributions requested by the employees' organization: Once the deduction authority is given, it is permanent authority unless it is revoked by September 15 of the employment year, or in the case of voluntary contributions, unless it is revoked 30 days prior to the last deduction.

100

If an employee should leave a position of employment, all amounts owed under terms of this authorization will be withheld from the last paycheck. The amounts authorized to be deducted may change during subsequent years; employees will not be required to approve future adjustments in deductions.

New Authorizations, exclusive of Cafeteria Plan deductions (4) shall be permitted for group insurance plans, non-political membership dues and voluntary contributions on the September 30 payroll dates. Such authorizations must be received in the payroll office by the tenth day of September each year. Cafeteria Plan deduction authorizations must be received in the payroll office by June 10 each year to be effective June 30. (4) Employees are required to retain the payroll deduction(s) for at least one year or until the next Open Enrollment period.

(Revised April 6, 2015) (4)(Revised/Approved September 29, 2005) (3)(Revised August 4, 2005) (2)(Revised August 2, 2004) (1)(Added May 2, 1983)

6.15 Summer School Sessions

Included in Section 3.11 (Deleted April 6, 2015)

6.16 Fundraising Activities

Fund raising activities in the local school shall be under the direction and control of the building principal. Any and all fund raising activities shall be scheduled at such time as not to interfere with the school day, but school faculty and/or students shall be allowed, on a voluntary basis, to engage in fund raising activities which do not infringe on instructional time. (Added August 6, 1984)

6.17 Items Purchased or Sold at Individual Schools

All items purchased or sold in the individual schools of this system shall be purchased or sold based upon the value delivered in quality, service, and educational experience and shall reflect that which is in the best interest of the student and the school.

The work related to these purchases, promotion, distribution and collection of monies related to these items shall be provided in such a manner that it does not interfere with the educational process.

It shall be the responsibility of the individual school principal to see that the students, parents and school shall receive the best value possible for the money expended and to see that this policy is carried out in his or her individual school. (Added August 6, 1984)

6.18 Employees Prohibited from Copying Computer

101

Employees of the Blount County Board of Education are hereby prohibited from making illegal copies of computer software that is protected by copyright, trademark or any other legal means of registering computer software. This prohibition extends to all computer software purchased by the Board of Education, individual schools, and any club or organization under the jurisdiction of the Board of Education. Computer hardware equipment owned by the Board of Education shall not be used at any location for the purpose of illegally copying computer software. (Added August 5, 1985)

Section VII – Transportation

7.1 General Policies

Pupils will be permitted to ride a school bus only to the school normally served by that bus, or to the area which has been designated by the Board as a part of the school community of that school. Pupils will not normally ride a bus past a school where their grades are taught to another school without the permission, in writing, of the Superintendent.

Pupils will not be permitted to ride a school bus to a school where they are not enrolled unless they have permission of both principals, and the bus driver has been officially informed in advance. Only school students and employees will be permitted to ride a bus on its route to and from school.

The Blount County Board of Education will not duplicate any part of a school bus route to serve two or more schools.

Students entitled to ride a bus in one community in the county will have the same quality and quantity of service as pupils in any other community, all other things being equal.

7.2 Bus Routing

In order to insure equitable school bus service to the students in Blount County, the following criteria will be considered:

A school bus will not be routed over a road not maintained by the federal, state, county, or city government and not open to public traffic. A bus will not be routed over roads or bridges that are hazardous to the lives of pupils or drivers. If a road or a section of a road, or bridge becomes unsafe for a school bus to operate, the Transportation Supervisor shall immediately re-route the bus and notify school officials.(2) (Revised April 5, 2005) School bus stops will be located so that vehicle traffic will have a clear unobstructed view for a minimum distance of 100 yards in both directions. A bus route shall not be changed to accommodate pupils unless they live a minimum distance of two- tenths of a mile from an established bus route. The only exception permissible is to accommodate physically and severe mentally handicapped students and instances where the safety of students is involved. Other factors which determine bus routes are: the number of pupils living two or more miles from the local school, the length of the proposed route, the position of the route as related to the school served the schedule of pupil transfers to other buses.

Bus stops should not be closer than one-tenth mile and should be farther apart if necessary for the safety of students.

The supervisor of transportation will have the authority to route buses or make changes in routes. The driver will not make changes in his route without the transportation supervisor's approval. (Revised May 4, 1981)

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(Revised April 4, 2005)(2)

7.3 Bus Drivers

The responsibility of safe, sure driving in almost all types of weather over different road conditions and the responsibility for the conduct of the students riding a bus rest heavily on the shoulders of the driver. The driver has the assurance that he will receive co-operation and support from those in authority.

A. Desirable characteristics of a bus driver Good moral character Dependability Emotional stability Driving skills needed for safe bus operation Thorough knowledge of traffic laws Ability to exercise good judgment Good reputation in the community

B. Selection of Drivers

All drivers and substitute drivers must have a current CDL with Passenger and School Bus endorsements, a State Department of Education School Bus Certificate and a current DOT Medical card. No driver will be employed if his driver's license has been revoked or if his record with the Department of Public Safety indicates that he is not a responsible and law-abiding driver. (Revised May 1, 1989) (Revised and Approved May 6, 2013) Each applicant will file an application form with the Supervisor of Transportation. He will familiarize himself with the policies, rules and regulations of the Transportation Department of the Blount County Board of Education.

Each applicant must demonstrate to the supervisor or his representative his ability to drive safely the type of vehicle that will be used on his route.

The Transportation Supervisor will recommend bus drivers to the Superintendent. The selection of drivers will be determined by the availability of qualified personnel and their geographic location to the school. (Revised July 26, 2005)

No person who has the reputation of drinking intoxicating liquors or using illegal drugs will be employed to drive a school bus for the Blount County School System.

All bus drivers must pass a physical examination every two years for the purpose of determining if their state of physical health is appropriate for operating a school bus safely. The examining physician will be selected and compensated by the Board of Education. Bus drivers will not be permitted to use their personal physicians for the physical examination in lieu of the one required by the Board of Education.

The physician will submit a report to the director of transportation as to each driver's state of health. The report will also include a statement from the examining physician assessing each driver's physical qualifications for driving a school bus. The report will be maintained as a part of each driver's personnel file.

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All drivers are expected to attend instructional meetings, workshops, and other meetings to which they are called by the local principal, the supervisor of transportation, or the Board.

The Board reserves the right to assign a bus to a driver and to exchange it anytime the need arises.

C. Substitute Drivers

The regular driver is responsible for notifying the Bus Shop in advance in the event they need a substitute. The Bus Shop staff will call substitute drivers using the current substitute list which is updated and maintained by the Transportation Department.. (Revised April 4, 2005) (Revised and Approved May 6, 2013)

The substitute driver must have a current CDL with Passenger and school Bus endorsement, a State Department of Education School Bus Certificate and a current DOT medical card. (Revised and Approved May 6, 2013) D. Bus Aides

Effective with the 1999-2000 School Year, all full-time Bus Aides must hold and maintain a current Commercial Driver License and School Bus Certificate. As with bus drivers, aides must pass a physical examination every two years. The examining physician will be selected and compensated by the Board of Education.

(Revised and Board Approved May 20, 1999)

7.4 Dismissal of Drivers

The following shall be sufficient grounds for the dismissal of drivers employed by the Board: Violation of the rules governing railroad grade crossings and intersections Drinking intoxicants or being in a state of intoxication while on the job or being in possession of, or using, or being under the influence of illegal drugs and/or being charged with a drug related offense. Reckless driving Failure to report an accident Use of indecent or profane language in the presence of students Immoral conduct Failure to fasten seat belts while operating the vehicle. Any misconduct of the driver which could result in injury to students or damage to the bus. (Revised May 7, 1990) (Revised June 11, 1989)

7.5 Principal-Teacher Responsibility in Pupil Transportation

The principal is the administrator in charge of buses and drivers that serve his school. Whenever possible, he will handle local matters dealing with transportation.

The principal, in cooperation with the Transportation Supervisor, will designate parking zones for buses away from student activity areas, designate loading and unloading areas, and arrange orderly and systematic parking and movement of buses on the school grounds.

The principal is authorized to suspend the rights and privilege of transportation to any student guilty of misconduct or misbehavior en-route to and from school.

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Teaches should assist the principal in carrying out these responsibilities and use appropriate time for instructing pupils on how to ride a bus safely.

7.6 Parent-Pupil Responsibility

Parents or guardians of pupils are held responsible for their children's conduct on the school bus. They are requested to study, inquire and try to understand all policies, rules and regulations and to respect the driver and the rights of others.

The bus operates on a definite schedule. It cannot be expected to wait on tardy pupils unless an attempt is being made to board the bus. Parents should see that their children are ready to meet the bus in the mornings without delay of the bus. The pupil must have a regular place to meet the bus and should not deviate from it.

When a student leaves the bus and must cross the road, he should walk to the front of the bus and wait until the driver signals for him to cross the road. When children must cross the road to enter the bus, they should wait until the bus has stopped, the mechanical stop signal is extended, and the door is opened before crossing in front of the bus.

When a bus must turn around at a stop, the turning area should be kept free of parked cars or other vehicles. Adequate space must be provided.

Pupils may be assigned certain seats if the driver deems it necessary.

The following types of behavior are prohibited on the bus: throwing objects from the bus, exchanging seats while the bus is in motion, using tobacco in any form, striking matches, opening knives, extending any part of the body from windows, defacing or damaging the bus in any manner, talking vulgarly or loudly, or shouting using emergency door except in an emergency leaving the bus at any place other than regular stops without the written permission of the principal playing a radio, tape player or other audio device on the school bus is permitted when its use is controlled, directed and furnished by the bus driver. No more than one such device may be played at any one time.(1)

Students found guilty of destroying or damaging school bus equipment may be placed on immediate suspension from the bus and will be charged for the cost of replacement and/or repairs. Restitution must be made before permission can be granted to resume riding the bus.

If misconduct is serious enough to justify immediate action, the driver may refuse admittance to the bus. The principal will decide if and when the pupil will again be admitted.

Parents should report to the principal any incident or evidence of carelessness or any dangerous practices on the bus or on the highway of pupil or driver. (1-Revised May 3, 1993)

7.7 Use of School Buses by Private Groups

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School buses are purchased and operated by the Board of Education for the purpose of transporting students to and from school and for trips relating to school programs.

The Board of Education will not permit any group or organization unaffiliated with Blount County Schools to use school buses to transport its members for any purpose. Organizations such as, but not limited too, PTSA/PTSO and Booster Organizations may use school buses if approved by the superintendent. The organizations shall pay for all expenses incurred in regards to transportation. No trip will be approved unless the driver for the trip is a Blount County Board of Education approved driver with a current CDL with Passenger and School Bus endorsements, a State Department of Education School Bus Certificate and a current DOT Medical card. (Revised June 14, 2001) (Revised and Approved May 6, 2013) An exception to the above policy is made for times of emergency including but not limited to floods, fires, tornadoes, storms, evacuations due to spilled chemicals, and nuclear attacks. In such times of emergency, school buses may be ordered to be used for such purposes as deemed necessary by any of the following: Blount County Board of Education, Blount County Superintendent of Education, Blount County Sheriff, Blount County Civil Defense Coordinator, any sworn law enforcement officer of any police department in Blount County, any Alabama State Trooper, any officer of the Alabama National Guard or United States Armed Forces.

School buses will not be used for emergency drills except as approved by the Superintendent of Education. (Added May 5, 1980)

7.8 Dress For Bus Drivers

The Blount County Board of Education believes bus drivers should dress in a neat and appropriate manner for the job they perform. Bus drivers are prohibited from wearing tank tops, muscle shirts, extremely tight pants, sheer tops, and backless clothing. Shorts are permitted during hot days during the early fall and spring. Shorts that are extremely short and/or tight are prohibited. (Added May 2, 1994) (Revised and Approved May 6, 2013)

7.9 Use of Cell Phones by Bus Drivers

Cell phone use is prohibited while operating a school bus, whether the bus is loaded or empty.

(Approved and Added May 6, 2013)

Section VIII-Use of School Facilities

8.1 Principal's Responsibility

The school grounds and plant may be made available to the community at the discretion of the principal.

School property may be used free of charge in the following instances: for all school affairs conducted by students of any school and approved by the principal, for all adult affairs of community-wide interest or of an educational nature and approved by the principal, for all parent-teacher association meetings, for all affairs and performances where admission is charged and all proceeds are to be used for the benefit of that school.

School facilities may be used on an expense basis by community groups for purposes related to or directly connected with community welfare.

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The Board believes the functions of school buildings and grounds should be to accommodate approved school programs for students and to assist in meeting the educational, cultural, civic, social and recreational needs of communities.

Use of school buildings by the community shall be considered a secondary function and shall be scheduled at times which do not interfere with regular school activities.

The use of school facilities by individuals or groups shall be governed by a signed use agreement between the individual or group and the Board. The use agreement shall contain, but is not limited to, the following:

A "hold harmless" statement having the effect of holding the Board free from any liability arising from the negligence of the party using the facilities. A statement requiring, with limited exception, any person or group leasing the school facilities to purchase liability insurance identifying the Board and its members as additional insureds. A certificate verifying the purchase of such insurance should be presented to the Board at least twenty-four (24) hours prior to use of the facilities. A statement that the individual or group lessee shall assume all responsibility for damages and/or maintenance expenses invested in the building, directly or indirectly resulting from lessee's use.

The Board owned or controlled facility will not be used in any manner not covered under liability insurance purchased by the Board.

8.2 Duties of Those Using School Facilities

All decorations must be done by the persons using the building and should meet the approval of the principal. All equipment used must be replaced to its proper storage area or prepared ready for the next school day. All waste, garbage, and such must be disposed of in a way prescribed by the principal. Floors must be left clean. Buildings must be locked and left in a secure manner. (Revised July 5, 1994)

8.3 Selling and Advertising on School Property

The principal may cooperate with any non-profit community social agency, provided such cooperation does not infringe on the school program or diminish the amount of time devoted to the school program.

Students, staff members, or school facilities may not be used in any manner for advertising or promoting interest of any community or non-school agency or organization without the approval of the Board.

No employee or student may purchase for resale at school any goods or equipment of any kind or render any commercial service to other students, teachers or the school system for personal gain.

The principal must approve the selling of any merchandise or service on school property.

Visiting on School Property

All visitors to the school campus must first report to the principal's office.

8.5 School Lockers

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8.6 Distribution of Publications

Distribution of published materials on the school campus is limited to school publications which have a faculty sponsor. Other publications may be banned from the campus by the principal if they are determined to be pornographic, obscene, or libelous. Any decision made by a principal which results in the banning of any publication from a school campus is subject to review by the Board at its next regular meeting. This policy is not intended to deny students freedom of the press but rather to insure that publications brought onto the campus are not distributed if those publications will result in the disruption of the educational program in the school. (Revised May 2, 1983) 8.7 Limited Open Forum (Equal Access)

The Equal Access Act requires that public secondary schools grant equal access to a student group wishing to meet for religious, political, or philosophical purposes, if the school allows other types of non-curriculum related student groups to meet on school premises during non-instructional time. Non- curriculum related student organizations shall have the same opportunity to use school facilities as any other student organization, regardless of religious, political, philosophical, or other content of the speech at such meetings, subject to the right and obligation of the Board to maintain order and discipline on school premises, to protect the well-being of students and faculty, and to assure that students attending these meetings are doing so voluntarily.

The principal of the school may approve use of the school facility by a non-curriculum related student organization provided that: The meeting occurs during non-instructional time and is attended by a school employee who shall provide general supervision. The meeting is voluntary and student-initiated. Only students enrolled in the school may request the meeting. The meeting is not sponsored by the school, the Board or employees thereof. The presence of school authorities or Board employees at any religious meeting is non-participatory in nature. The presence of school employees is for observation only. The meeting does not interfere with regular instructional activities of the school. The meeting shall not be directed, conducted, controlled or regularly attended by non-school persons. The non-curriculum related student group shall not use the school name, school mascot name, or any name that might imply school sponsorship. No school employee shall be compelled to attend a meeting of any student organization if the content of the speech at such meeting is contrary to the beliefs of the employee.

Any student organization seeking to meet on school property during non-instructional time shall submit a written application to the school principal. Applications shall include the following information: (1) the name of the organization, (2) a general statement of the purpose of the organization, (3) a description of the qualifications for membership, if any, (4) a statement that the students understand and agree to comply with this access policy, and (5) a proposed schedule of meetings and activities.

The principal shall deny approval to any organization whose purposes, qualifications for membership, or proposed activities are unlawful.

Failure to comply with this policy shall be grounds for revocation of the right to continue to conduct meetings under this policy. (Added May 2, 1994)

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Section IX – Code of Ethics Preamble

The educator believes in the worth and dignity of man. He recognizes the supreme importance of the pursuit of truth, devotion to excellence, and the nurture of democratic citizenship. He regards as essential to these goals the protection of freedom to learn and to teach and the guarantee of equal educational opportunity for all. The educator accepts his responsibility to practice his profession according to the highest ethical standards.

The educator recognizes the magnitude of the responsibility he has accepted in choosing a career in education, and engages himself, individually and collectively with other educators, to judge his colleagues, and to be judged by them, in accordance with the provision of this code.

Principle I - Commitment to the Student

The educator measures his success by the progress of each student toward realization of his potential as a worthy and effective citizen. The educator therefore works to stimulate the spirit of inquiry, the acquisition of knowledge and understanding, and the thoughtful formulation of worthy goals.

In fulfilling his obligation to the student, the educator: Shall not, without just cause, restrain the student from independent action in his pursuit of learning, and shall not, without just cause, deny the student access to varying points of view. Shall not deliberately suppress or distort subject matter for which he bears responsibility. Shall make reasonable effort to protect the student from conditions harmful to learning or to health and safety. Shall conduct professional business in such a way that he does not expose the student to unnecessary embarrassment or disparagement. Shall not on grounds of race, color, creed, or national origin exclude any student from participation in or deny him benefits under any program, nor grant any discriminatory consideration or advantage. Shall not use professional relationships with students for private advantage. Shall keep in confidence information that has been obtained in the course of professional service, unless disclosure serves professional purposes or is required by law. Shall not tutor for remuneration students assigned to his classes, unless no other qualified teacher is reasonably available.

Principle II - Commitment to the Public

The educator believes that patriotism in its highest form requires dedication to the principles of our democratic heritage. He shares with all other citizens the responsibility for the development of sound public policy and assumes full political and citizenship responsibilities. The educator bears particular responsibility for the development of policy relating to the extension of educational opportunities for all and for interpreting educational programs and policies to the public.

In fulfilling his obligation to the public, the educator: Shall not misrepresent an institution or organization with which he is affiliated, and shall take adequate precautions to distinguish between his personal and institutional or organizational views. Shall not knowingly distort or misrepresent the facts concerning educational matters in direct and indirect public expressions. Shall not interfere with a colleague's exercise of political and citizenship rights and responsibilities. Shall not use institutional privileges for private gain or to promote political candidates or partisan political activities.

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Shall accept no gratuities, gifts or favors that might impair or appear to impair professional judgement, nor offer any favor, service or thing of value to obtain special advantage.

Principle III - Commitment to the Profession

The educator believes that the quality of services of the education profession directly influences the nation and its citizens. He therefore exerts every effort to raise professional standards, to improve his service, to promote a climate in which the exercise of professional judgement is encouraged, and to achieve conditions which attract persons worthy of the trust to careers in education. Aware of the value of united effort, he contributes actively to the support, planning, and programs of professional organizations.

In fulfilling his obligation to the profession, the educator:

1. Shall not discriminate on grounds of race, color, creed, or national origin for membership in professional organizations, nor interfere with the free participation of colleagues in the affairs of their association. Shall accord just and equitable treatment to all members of the profession in the exercise of their professional rights and responsibilities. Shall not use coercive means or promise special treatment in order to influence professional decisions of colleagues. Shall withhold and safeguard information acquired about colleagues in the course of employment, unless disclosure serves professional purposes. Shall not refuse to participate in a professional inquiry when requested by an appropriate professional association. Shall provide upon the request of the aggrieved party a written statement of specific reason for recommendations that lead to the denial of increments, significant changes in employment, or termination of employment. Shall not misrepresent his professional qualifications. Shall not knowingly distort evaluations of colleagues.

Principle IV - Commitment to Professional Employment Practices

The educator regards the employment agreement as a pledge to be executed both in spirit and in fact in a manner consistent with the highest ideals of professional service. He believes that sound professional personnel relationships with governing boards are built upon personal integrity, dignity, and mutual respect. The educator discourages the practice of his profession by unqualified persons.

In fulfilling his obligation to professional employment practices, the educator: 1. Shall apply for, accept, offer, or assign a position or responsibility on the basis of professional preparation and legal qualifications. 2. Shall apply for a specific position only when it is known to be vacant, and shall refrain from underbidding or commenting adversely about other candidates. 3. Shall not knowingly withhold information regarding a position from an applicant, or misrepresent an assignment or conditions of employment. 4. Shall give prompt notice to the employing agency of any change in availability of service, and the employing agent shall give prompt notice of change in availability or nature of a position. 5. Shall adhere to the terms of a contract or appointment, unless these terms have been legally terminated, falsely represented, or substantially altered by unilateral action of the employing agency.

6. Shall conduct professional business through channels, when available, that have been jointly approved by the professional organization and the employing agency. 7. Shall not delegate assigned tasks to unqualified personnel. Shall permit no commercial exploitation of his/her professional position. 9. Shall use time granted for the purpose for which it is intended.

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Section X – Health and Safety

10.1 Communicable Disease The Blount County School System will work cooperatively with local and state health agencies to enforce and comply with applicable health codes for the prevention, control, and containment of communicable diseases in schools.

Certificate of Immunization A certificate of immunization against diseases designated by the state health officer shall be required before a student can be enrolled initially in kindergarten or first grade, or in the case of students transferring into the system, in all grades in schools of the Blount County School System.”For Homeless, Immigrant, Migratory, and Limited English Proficient students, see Policy 5.1” Authority to Exclude Student or Staff Member The Superintendent shall have the authority to exclude any student or staff member with a communicable disease or parasite known to be spread by any form of casual contact and is considered a health threat to the school population. Such a student or staff member shall be excluded from schools in the Blount County School System for a period of time as may be prescribed by the local Health Department, school nurse, or a physician. In all cases, a statement of clearance from the Department of Health, school nurse, or a physician shall be required before the student or staff member may re-enter school or return to work.

(Revised November 29, 2004) (Revised February 17, 2012)

10.2 Protocol for Communicable Diseases Known (not) to be Spread by Casual Contact

Preamble: Blount County Public Schools shall strive to protect the health and safety of children and youth in our care, as well as their families, our employees, and the general public. Staff members shall cooperate with public health authorities to promote these goals.

Evidence is overwhelming that the risk of transmitting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is extremely low in school settings when current guidelines are followed. The presence of a person living with HIV infection or diagnosed with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) poses no significant risk to others in school, day care, or school athletic settings.

Section 1: School Attendance

A student with HIV infection has the same right to attend school and receive services as any other student, and will be subject to the same rules and policies. HIV infection shall not factor into decisions concerning class assignments, privileges or participation in any school-sponsored activity.

School authorities shall determine the educational placement of a student known to be infected with HIV following established policies and procedures for students with chronic health problems or students with disabilities. Decision-makers must consult with the student's physician and parent/guardian; respect the student's and family's rights; and reassess the placement if there is a change in the student's needs for accommodations or services.

Section 2: Employment

The Blount County Public Schools do not discriminate on the basis of HIV infection or association with another person with HIV infection.

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Section 3: Privacy

Pupils or staff members are not required to disclose HIV infection status to anyone in the education system. HIV antibody testing is not required.

Every employee shall treat as highly confidential any knowledge or speculation concerning the HIV status of a student or other staff member. Violation of medical privacy is cause for disciplinary action, criminal prosecution, and/or personal liability for a civil suit.

No information regarding a person's HIV status shall be divulged to any individual or organization without a court order or the informed, written, signed, and dated consent of the person with HIV infection (or the parent/guardian of legal minor). The written consent shall specify the name of the recipient of the information and the purpose for disclosure.

All health records, notes, and other documents that reference a person's HIV status shall be kept in a secure and confidential file apart from any student record or employee file.

Section 4: Infection Control

All employees shall consistently follow infection control guidelines in all settings and at all times, including playgrounds and school buses. Schools shall operate according to the standards promulgated by the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration for the prevention of blood- borne infections. Equipment and supplies needed to apply the infection control guidelines shall be maintained and kept reasonably available. School Health Services personnel shall implement the precautions and investigate, correct, and report any instances of lapse.

A school staff member shall alert the school nurse if a student's health condition or behavior presents reasonable risk of transmitting any infection (bleeding, biting, spitting, scratching, or other risky behaviors).

If a situation occurs at school in which a person might have been exposed to an infectious agent, such as an instance of blood-to-blood contact, school authorities shall counsel that person (or alert a parent/guardian) to seek appropriate medical evaluation.

Section 5: HIV and Athletics

The privilege of participating in physical education classes, athletic programs, competitive sports and recess is not conditional on a person's HIV status. School authorities shall make reasonable accommodations to allow students living with HIV infection to participate in school-sponsored physical activities.

All employees shall consistently adhere to infection control guidelines in locker rooms and all play and athletic settings. Rulebooks will reflect these guidelines. First aid kits shall be on hand at every athletic event.

All physical education teachers and athletic program staff shall complete an approved first aid and injury prevention course that includes implementation of infection control guidelines. Student orientation about safety on the playing field shall include guidelines for avoiding HIV infection.

Section 6: HIV Prevention Education

The goals of HIV prevention education are to promote healthful living and discourage the behaviors that put people at risk of acquiring HIV. The education program shall:

Be taught at every level, kindergarten through grade twelve

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Use methods demonstrated by sound research to be effective Be consistent with community standards Follow content guidelines prepared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Be appropriate to students' developmental levels, behaviors, and cultural backgrounds Build knowledge and skills from year to year Stress the benefits of abstinence from sexual activity, alcohol consumption, and other drug use. Include accurate information on reducing the risk of HIV infection Address student's own concerns Include means for evaluation Be an integral part of a coordinated school health program Be taught by well-prepared instructors with adequate support And involve parents and families as partners in education

Parents and guardians shall have convenient opportunities to preview all HIV prevention curricula and material. School staff members shall assist parents or guardians who ask for help discussing HIV infection with their children. If a parent or guardian submits a written request to a Principal that a child not receive instruction in a specific HIV prevent topic at school, and assure that the topics will be discussed at home or elsewhere, the child shall be excused without penalty.

The education system shall endeavor to cooperate with HIV prevention efforts in the community that address out-of-school youth and youth in situations that put them at risk of acquiring HIV.

Section 7: Related Services

Students shall have access to voluntary, confidential, age and developmentally appropriate counseling about matters related to HIV infection through the assigned nurse. School administrators shall maintain confidential linkage and referral mechanisms to facilitate voluntary student access to appropriate HIV counseling and testing programs and to other HIV-related services as needed. Public information about resources in the community shall be kept available for voluntary student use.

Section 8: Staff Development

All school staff members shall participate in a planned HIV education program that conveys factual and current information; provides guidance on infection control procedures; informs about current law and state, district, and school policies concerning HIV; assists staff to maintain productive parent and community relations; and includes annual review sessions. Identified employees shall receive additional specialized training as appropriate to their positions and responsibilities.

Section 9: General Provisions

Upon request, school administrators shall make available to students, their family members, and school personnel current policies concerning HIV infection and provide convenient opportunities to discuss them. (Revised June 14, 2001)

10.3 Routine Procedures for Sanitation and Hygiene When Handling Body Fluids

Purpose To insure that body fluids involving blood, vomitus, urine, feces, semen, saliva and nasal discharges are handled properly.

Those Affected

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All school staff should be alerted to dangers of infections from body fluids. School nurses, custodians and teachers should be particularly alert to the proper techniques in handling and disposal of materials.

Equipment Needed: Soap Disposal Bags Water Dust Pans Mops Buckets Disposable Gloves Paper Towels Disinfectants - should be one of the following classes: Phenolic germicidal detergent in a 1% aqueous solution (e.g. Lysol) Sodium hypochlorite solution (household bleach) Quaternary ammonium germicidal detergent in 2% aqueous solution (e.g. Tri-quat, Mytar, or Sage). Idophor germicidal detergent with 500 ppm available iodine (e.g. Wescodyne). Sanitary absorbing agent (chlora Sorb, X-O Oder Away)

Procedures 1. General Wear disposable gloves before making contact with body fluid during care, treatment, and all cleaning procedures. Discard gloves after each use. Wash hands after handling fluids and contaminated articles. Discard disposal items including tampons, used bandages and dressings in plastic-lined trash container with lid. Close bags and discard daily. Do not reuse plastic bags. Use disposable items to handle body fluids whenever possible. Use paper towels to pick up and discard any solid waste materials such as vomitus or feces. 2. Hand Washing Use soap and running water. Soap suspends easily removable soil and microorganisms allowing them to be washed off. Rub hands together for approximately 20 seconds to work up a lather. Scrub between fingers, knuckles, backs of hands, and nails. Rinse hands under warm running water. Running water is necessary to carry away debris and dirt. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry hands. Discard paper towels. 3. For Washable Surfaces For tables, desks, etc: Use Lysol, or household bleach solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water, mixed fresh. Rinse with water if so directed on disinfectant. Allow to air dry. When bleach solution is used, handle carefully. (a) Gloves should be worn since the solution is irritating to skin Avoid applying on metal since it will corrode most metals. For Floors: One of the most readily available and effective disinfectants is the bleach solution (1-1/2 cups bleach to one (1) gallon water). Use the two bucket system--one bucket to wash the soiled surface and one bucket to rinse as follows: In bucket #1, dip, wring, mop up vomitus, blood. Dip, wring and mop once more Dip, wring out mop in bucket #1. Put mop into bucket #2 (rinse bucket) that has clean disinfectant (such as Lysol, bleach solution) Mop or rinse area. Return mop to bucket #1 to wring out. This keeps the rinse bucket clean for second spill in the area. After all spills are cleaned up, proceed with #3.

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Soak mop in the disinfectant after use. Disposable cleaning equipment and water should be placed in a toilet or plastic bag as appropriate. Rinse non-disposable cleaning equipment (dustpans, buckets) in disinfectant. Dispose disinfectant solution down a drainpipe. Remove gloves, if worn, and discard in appropriate receptacle. Wash hands as described in #2.

4. For Non-washable Surfaces (rugs, upholstery) Apply sanitary absorbing agent, let dry, vacuum If necessary, use broom and dustpan to remove solid materials. Apply rug or upholstery shampoo as directed. Re-vacuum according to directions on shampoo. If a sanitizing carpet cleaner only available by water extraction method is used, follow the directions on the label. Clean dustpan and broom, if used. Rinse in disinfectant solution. Air dry. Wash hands as described in #2. 5. For Soiled Washable Materials (clothing, towels, etc.) Rinse item under running water using gloved hands, if appropriate. Place item in plastic bag and seal until item is washed. Plastic bags containing soiled, washable materials must be clearly identified if outside laundry service is used. Wash hands as described in #2. Wipe sink with paper towels, discard towels. Wash soiled items separately, washing and drying as usual. If material is bleachable, add 1/2 cup bleach to the wash cycle. Discard plastic bag. Wash hands as described in #2 after handling soiled items.

TRANSMISSION CONCERNS IN THE SCHOOL SETTING BODY FLUIDS SOURCE OF INFECTIOUS AGENTS

Body Fluid Source *Organism of Concern Transmission Concern Blood Hepatitis B virus Bloodstream inoculation cuts and abrasions AIDS virus through cuts and abrasions nosebleeds Cytomegalovirus on hands menses contaminated needle Direct blood stream inoculation

**Feces Salmonella bacteria Oral inoculation from incontinence Shigella bacteria contaminated hands Rotavirus Hepatitis A virus

**Urine Cytomegalovirus Bloodstream, oral and mucus membrane inoculation from hands

**Respiratory Secretions Mononucleosis virus Oral inoculation from saliva Common cold virus contaminated hands nasal discharge Influenza virus Bloodstream inoculation Hepatitis B Virus through bites

**Vomitus Gastrointestinal Oral inoculation from viruses, e.g. (Norwalk contaminated hands agent Rotavirus)

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Semen Hepatitis B Sexual contact AIDS virus Gonorrhea

*This is not an all inclusive list of organisms of concern for transmission in the school setting. **Possible transmission of AIDS is currently thought to be of little concern from these sources.

LEGAL REF.: THE CODE OF ALABAMA, 16-29-130; State Department of Public Health Guideline, Jan 3, 1983; State Department of Education Memorandum, April 14, 1978; Michigan Department of Education Model Communicable Disease Policy; THE NEW ENGLAND JOURNAL OF MEDICINE, Feb. 6, 1986 p 346. (Section X added May 7, 1990) (Revised November 29, 2004)

10.4 Drug-Free Workplace Policy

The Blount County Board of Education has the policy of providing employees a drug-free workplace. Drug abuse affects all aspects of American life; it threatens the workplace a well as the community. Public Law 100-690 includes the Drug-Free Workplace Act which took effect March 18,1989. In order to promote a safe and efficient work environment, the following policy has been adopted to supplement existing personnel policies, practices, and procedures. 1. A "workplace" means any office, building, classroom, or property (including parking lots) owned or operated by the school board, or any other site at which an employee is to perform work for the employer, or which site is under the jurisdiction of the employer. An "employee" of the Blount County Board of Education is any individual receiving remuneration for services rendered and who is employed by the Blount County Board of Education. "Possess" means to be contained either on an employee's person or under the employee's control, constructive possession, or in an employee's motor vehicle. 2. Drug abuse interferes with an employee's efficient and safe performance of work responsibilities and reduces the employee's dependability, creating a problem for the entire school system. It can adversely affect health, safety, and productivity while destroying public confidence and trust. Therefore, it is the policy that the manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of illegal drugs, or of alcohol, by an employee in the workplace is prohibited. No employee will report for work, will work, or be present in the workplace who is under the influence of, or impaired by, drugs, alcohol, or by the abuse or illegal use of prescription drugs. Employees who are under the influence of, or impaired by, or who possess, use, manufacture, dispense, or distribute drugs or alcohol in the workplace are subject to disciplinary action, which may include termination of employment. 3. Violation of any State or Federal criminal drug statue at the workplace by an employee of the Blount County Board of Education may result in charges which lead to termination of employment. 4. All employees will receive a copy of the Drug-Free Workplace Policy. As a condition of employment, the employee will abide by the terms of the policy. It is the responsibility of the Directors of Personnel to distribute this written policy statement to all employees. 5. Any employee shall notify the Superintendent or, in his absence, the Assistant Superintendent in the event of his or her criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than five (5) days after such conviction. The Blount County Board of Education, through the Superintendent, will notify the appropriate granting or contracting agencies within ten (10) calendar days after receiving notice of a criminal drug conviction. A conviction means a finding of guilt (including a plea of nolo contendre) or the imposition of a sentence by a judge or jury in any Federal or State court. In addition to the notice of conviction received from an employee, the Superintendent may otherwise receive actual notice of such a conviction. 6. The Director of Personnel will be responsible for coordinating regularly scheduled drug-free awareness programs to inform employees about the dangers of drug abuse in the workplace and the Board's policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace and penalties for violations. The Director of

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Personnel will also provide printed information for dissemination through system publications at regular intervals, informing new employees through orientation session, providing information about available drug rehabilitation, or counseling, or employee's assistance programs and resources. 7. All employees must sign an acknowledgement of receipt of a copy of the Blount County Board of Education's policy statement on its Drug-Free Workplace. the form shall read substantially as follows:

To the Employee:

This acknowledgement must be completed, signed, dated and returned to your immediate supervisor or other designated person.

I, ______, an employee of (please print) the Blount County Board of Education, hereby certify that I have received a copy of the Board's policy statement regarding the maintenance of a drug-free workplace. I realize that the manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance, drugs or alcohol, is prohibited by the Blount County Board of Education in the workplace and violation of this policy can subject me to disciplinary action, including termination of employment. I realize that as a condition of employment by the Blount County Board of Education, a federal grantee, I must abide by the terms of this policy and will notify the superintendent of Education or in his absence, the Assistant Superintendent of Education, of the Blount County School system, of any criminal drug conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than five (50 calendar days after such conviction. I further realize that federal law mandates that the employer communicate notice of any conviction to the appropriate granting federal agency and I hereby wave any and all claims against the Blount County Board of Education, its agents, servants, and employees for conveying this information to any such federal agency.

Signature______

Date ______

10.5 Employee Drug and Alcohol Use and Policy for Compliance with the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991

The Blount County Board of Education recognizes that our employees are our greatest asset. Our employees are the keys to our goal of providing the best possible education program for our students. To achieve our goal, and to maximize the skills and talents of our employees, it is important that every employee of our school system understands the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse and be aware of the new state and federal requirements concerning substance abuse. This policy statement is offered to clarify our position on employee drug and alcohol use. This policy and procedure should not be construed as contractual in any nature.

POLICY OBJECTIVES:

To create and maintain a safe, drug-free working environment for all employees. To encourage any employee with a dependence on, or addiction to, alcohol or other drugs to seek help in overcoming the problem. To reduce problems of absenteeism, tardiness, carelessness and/or other unsatisfactory matters related to job performance.

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To reduce the likelihood of incidents of accidental personal injury and/or damage to students, employees, visitors or property. To meet the requirements of 49 C.F.R. Part 40 and the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991. To reduce the likelihood that school property will be used for illicit drug activities. To protect the reputation of the school system and its employees within the community. Substance abuse is a serious threat to the school system, its employees and students. Though the percentage of substance abusing employees may be relatively small, practical experience and research indicate that appropriate precautions are necessary. It is the belief of the Board that the benefits derived from the policy objectives outweigh the potential inconvenience to employees. The Board earnestly solicits the understanding and cooperation of all employees in implementing this policy.

The Board requires that all employees report to work without any alcohol or illegal or mind altering substances in their systems. No employee shall report for work or remain on duty requiring the operation of a motor vehicle, other hazardous equipment or performing job duties in a hazardous environment when the employee is using any controlled substance, except when the use is pursuant to the instructions of a physician who has advised the employee that the substance does not adversely affect the employee's ability to perform in a safe manner. No employee shall use alcohol while on duty. No employee shall perform any job-related duties within 1 twelve hours after using alcohol. Further, outside conduct of a substance abuse-related nature which affects an employee's work, the school system's relationship with the government or reflects badly on the school system is prohibited. 1(Revised and approved by the Board June 10, 2002) Employees must inform their supervisor when they are legitimately taking medication which may affect their ability to work, in order to avoid creating safety problems and violating the Drug and Alcohol Policy.

The school system also prohibits employees from using, possessing, manufacturing, distributing or making arrangements to distribute illegal drugs while at work or on company property.

ENFORCEMENT

In order to enforce these rules, the school system reserves the right to require all employees (defined as all employees subject to 49 C.F.R. Part 40 and the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991, which is all drivers, regular and otherwise, of school buses) to submit to drug tests to determine the presence of prohibited substances at any time an employee is on duty or at any time an employee may normally be called to be on duty. In addition, the Board will require that any individual operating a Board-owned vehicle submit to drug tests. The School Board is required to and will develop, implement and enforce a drug and alcohol policy for their employees as a condition of compliance with the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991. (Revised and Board Approved May 20, 1999) Pursuant to Board policy and regulations, applicant testing may be required. All current employees may be required to undergo testing at scheduled physical examinations, and/or in circumstances where the Board has reasonable suspicion to believe an employee has violated its Alcohol and Drug Policy, and/or on a random basis without advance notice. Employees are required to report all accidents involving school property or personnel or accidents that occur during school hours or on school-related activities. Employees involved in such accidents may be required to submit to alcohol screening within two (2) hours and to drug screening within thirty-two hours of a reportable accident. Employees who return to work following rehabilitation will be required to undergo return to duty/follow up testing in addition to the general school system testing requirements.

The Board also reserves the right to search desks, cabinets, tool boxes, vehicles, including personal vehicles brought on the school system's property, bags or any other property at the school or in

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vehicles when the Board has reasonable cause to believe an employee has violated its Alcohol and Drug Policy.

Violation of these rules, including testing positive, will subject the employee to discipline, including discharge. Refusal to cooperate with the School Board in any test investigation will result in discipline, including discharge as appropriate under the applicable state and federal laws.

All information, interviews, reports, statements, memoranda and test results, written or otherwise received by the employer through its drug and alcohol testing program are confidential communications and may not be used or received in evidence, obtained in discovery, or disclosed in any public or private proceedings except in accordance with the Policy Consent/Release Form.

Any questions should be directed to the person assigned by the Superintendent and/or School Board as its Drug Program Coordinator.

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Blount County Board of Education Policy Consent/Release Form

I have read the above statement of policy and agree to abide by the School Board's drug and alcohol testing rules. I agree to submit to drug or alcohol tests at any time as a condition for my initial or continued employment. I authorize any laboratory or medical provider to release test results to the Blount County Board of Education and its Medical Review Officer, John J Davis, M.D.

I expressly authorize the School Board or its MRO to release any test-related information, including positive results, to the Unemployment Compensation Commission, or any other relevant government agency.

I understand that this agreement in no way limits my right to terminate my employment or be terminated in accordance with federal and state law.

______Employee name (please print)

______Employee signature Date

______Witness signature Date

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Blount County Board of Education Drug and Alcohol Program Procedures for Implementing Policy 10.5

1. General Policy

Practical experience and research has proven that even small quantities of narcotics, abused prescription drugs or alcohol can impair judgement and reflexes. Even when not readily apparent, this impairment can have serious results, particularly for employees operating vehicles or potentially dangerous equipment. Drug-using employees are a threat to students, co-workers and themselves, and may make costly errors. For these reasons the school system has adopted a policy that all employees must report to work completely free from the effects of alcohol and/or the presence of drugs, unless used as prescribed by a physician.

2. Drugs Use/Distribution/Impairment/Possession

All employees are prohibited from using, possessing, distributing, manufacturing, or having controlled substances, abusing prescription drugs or any other mind altering or intoxicating substances present in their system while at work or on duty.

3. Alcohol Use/Possession/Impairment

All employees are prohibited from possessing, drinking or being impaired or intoxicated by alcohol while at work or on duty. While employees are prohibited from having any alcohol present in their system while on duty, a Breath Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of .02 will be accepted as presumptive evidence of intoxication per Act 96-341 of the State of Alabama. Evidential breath testing devices (EBTs) on the National Traffic Highway Safety Administration Conforming Products List will normally be used to determine BAC. Employees testing at a level of 0.04 BAC for alcohol or positive for drugs must be assessed by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), satisfying the recommendations of the assessment, test negative for drugs, test 0.00 BAC for alcohol, and be released as alcohol/drug free by the Medical Review Officer prior to returning to work.(1) (1) (Revised June 2, 2003) (Revised May 15, 1997)

4. Off-Duty Conduct

Off-the-job use of drugs, alcohol or any other prohibited substances which results in impaired work performance, including, but not limited to, absenteeism, tardiness, poor work product, or harm to the school system's image or relationship with the government is prohibited. Employees should realize that these regulations prohibit all illicit drug use on and off duty.

5. Prescription Drugs

The proper use of medication prescribed by a physician is not prohibited; however, the school system prohibits the misuse of prescribed (or over the counter) medications and requires all employees using drugs at the direction of a physician to notify the School Board's Medical Review Officer (MRO), John J Davis, M.D., or their supervisor prior to beginning work where these drugs may affect their job performance, such as by causing drowsiness.

An employee or job applicant (with the exception of mandated employees) shall be allowed to provide notice to the school system of currently or recently used prescription or nonprescription drugs at the time of the taking of the specimen to be tested, and such information shall be placed in writing upon the employer's drug and alcohol testing custody and control form prior to initial testing.

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6. Substance Screening

A. Applicants

Substance screening may be required for all final applicants. Such testing may be required either alone or as part of a pre-employment physical examination. Applicants are required to sign a consent/release form before submitting to screening. Applicants will be disqualified for hire if they test positive, refuse to submit to a test, or refuse to execute the required consent/release form.

B. All Current Employees

1. Reasonable Suspicion

All employees may be required to submit to screening whenever a supervisor observes circumstances which provide reasonable suspicion to believe an employee has used a controlled substance or has otherwise violated the substance abuse rules. The supervisor's determination that reasonable suspicion exists to require the employee to undergo an alcohol and drug test must be based on specific, contemporaneous, articulable observations concerning the appearance, behavior, speech or body odors of the employee.

The required observations for alcohol and/or controlled substance reasonable suspicion testing shall be made by a supervisor or designee who has been trained for at least 60 minutes on alcohol misuse and an additional 60 minutes on controlled substance misuse.

The supervisor or supervisors requesting testing shall prepare and sign written documents explaining the circumstances and evidence upon which they relied within 24 hours of the testing, or before the results of the tests are released, whichever is earlier. While one supervisor may request a reasonable suspicion test, when feasible, supervisors are encouraged to obtain a second supervisor as a witness.

2. Random Testing

The Board may conduct random unannounced screening of all employees. Tests of employees for illicit drugs will be conducted in a number equal to or greater than 50 percent of the affected work force--without advance notice--in any given 12-month period. Tests of employees for alcohol will be conducted in a number equal to or greater than 25 percent of the affected work force--without advance notice--in any given 12-month period. There will be no maximum number of samples that any one individual will be required to provide during the testing schedule. Subsequent testing will be conducted at levels equal to or greater than the initial testing level. Select Medical Systems Inc. will provide computerized random sample lists to the Drug Program Coordinator. The list of employees in the random pool will be updated on a monthly basis. Employees will be required to report to the school system's designated collection site for testing immediately following notification. Annually, the tests will be spread reasonably over 12 months.

All employees may be tested during the initial implementation of the program.

3. Post Accident Testing

Employees are required to immediately notify the Drug Program Coordinator of any accident resulting in injury or damage to school system property. The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires post accident drug and alcohol testing following any accident which results in the: (1) loss of human life, or (2) receipt of a citation under State or local law for a moving traffic violation arising from the accident.

The school system may require an employee involved in any accident resulting in injury that requires more than simple first aid or results in damage to property, to undergo alcohol screening within 2

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hours and drug screening within 32 hours of the occurrence of the accident. The school system will discipline any employee who fails to report an accident or submit to substance screening where required by law or this policy. The Drug Program Coordinator shall complete an accident report in compliance with school system policy and applicable laws and regulations.

4. Return to Duty/Follow Up Testing

All employees referred for rehabilitation through administrative channels, or suspended for violation of this policy, may be subject to unannounced testing following return to duty for a period of 12 to 60 months. Such employees shall be tested at the frequency stipulated in the abeyance contract or as scheduled by the MRO. The employee will be tested a minimum of six (6) follow up tests during the first twelve months. Testing will be on a daily, weekly, monthly or longer basis at the discretion of the MRO and will be in addition to the other types of tests provided in this policy.

Employees testing at a level 0.04 BAC for alcohol or positive for drugs must be assessed by a Substance Abuse Professional (SAP), satisfy the recommendations of the assessment, test negative for drugs and below 0.02 BAC for alcohol and be released as drug free by the Medical Review Officer prior to returning to duty.

5. Re-certification Physical Examinations

All mandated employees may be required to undergo urinalysis as part of a re-certification physical examination.

C. Testing Procedure

1. General Guidelines

The School Board and its lab shall rely, when practical, on the guidance of the Federal Department of Transportation, Procedures for Transportation Workplace Drug Testing Programs, 49 C. F. R. Parts 40.1 through 40.39, and on the further guidance of the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act provided in 49 C. F. R. Parts 382, 391, 392, and 395.

2. Substances Tested For All Employees

Employees may regularly be tested for: amphetamines, cannabinoids, cocaine, opiates, phencyclidine and alcohol. Testing for alcohol will also be conducted subject to the final provisions for the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991. Employees may be tested for other substances without advance notice as part of a separate test performed by the school system for safety purposes. Such tests will be coordinated with the Drug Program Coordinator.

3. Testing Procedure

The School Board reserves the right to utilize blood, hair, breath, saliva or urinalysis testing procedures. Only urinalysis and breath test will be utilized in the pre-employment and random testing. All initial positive urine specimens will be confirmed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

D. Collection Sites

The school system will designate collection sites in areas where it maintains facilities or job sites where individuals may provide specimens.

E. Collection Procedures

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The School Board, Select Medical System, Inc, and the laboratory have developed and will maintain a documented procedure for collecting, shipping and accessing urine specimens. The School Board, SMS and the laboratory will utilize a standard Urine Custody and Control Form for all employee drug testing. The School Board, SMS and the laboratory will utilize a standard Breath Alcohol Testing Form for all employee alcohol testing. A tamper-proof sealing system, identifying numbers, labels, and sealed shipping containers will also be used for urine sample transportation. Alcohol results will use approved tamper evident tape.

Collection sites will maintain instructions and training emphasizing the responsibility of the collection site personnel to protect the integrity of the specimen and maintain as proper a collection procedure as reasonable. A person who collects or takes a specimen for a drug test pursuant to this policy shall collect an amount sufficient for two (2) drug tests as defined by the Department of Transportation. Where the school system has an employee collect the specimen, the Board will provide instruction and training to that employee. All alcohol testing will be performed by a certified Breath Alcohol Technician (BAT).

All employees will also be required to execute the school system Applicant/Employee Consent Form.

F. Occasions when the Collection Personnel Should Directly Observe the Specimen Being Provided

The school system has adopted the direct observation procedures as set out in Section 40.25 of the Department of Transportation regulations. An employer or medical representative at the collection site may directly observe an employee provide the specimen where there is a reason to believe that an individual may alter or substitute the specimen. Section 40.25 (e) (2) sets out the only four circumstances where direct observation is appropriate: The employee has presented a urine specimen that falls outside the normal temperature range, and the employee declines to provide a measurement of oral body temperature by sterile thermometer, as provided in paragraph (f) (23) of this part, or the oral temperature does not equal or exceed that of the specimen. The last urine specimen provided by the employee (i.e., on a previous occasion) was determined by the laboratory to have a specific gravity of less than 1.003 and a creatinine concentration below .2 g/L. The collection site person observes conduct clearly and unequivocally indicating an attempt to substitute or adulterate the sample (e.g., substitute urine in plain view, blue dye in specimen presented, etc.). The employee has previously been determined to have used a controlled substance without medical authorization and the particular test is being conducted as a part of rehabilitation program or on return to duty after any required rehabilitation.

A second specimen should be obtained under direct observation wherever there is reason to believe that the individual may have altered or substituted the specimen.

Where necessary, a school system representative or medical personnel may obtain a specimen outside of a designated collection site (such as, at a public restroom at an accident investigation).

G. Evaluations and Return of Results to the School System

The laboratory will transmit (by fax, mail, or computer, but not orally over the telephone) the results of all tests to the school system's MRO, John J. Davis, M.D. The MRO will be responsible for reviewing the quantified test results of employees and confirming that the individuals testing positive have used drugs in violation of school system policy. Prior to making a final decision, the MRO shall give the individuals an opportunity to provide a medical explanation for the positive test result either face to face or over the telephone.

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The MRO shall then promptly report to the Drug Program Coordinator which employees or applicants test positive.

H. Request for Retest

Where a split specimen has been collected, an employee may request a retest of the split specimen within 72 hours of notification of the final test result. Where only one sample is submitted for testing the employee may request a retest of the original sample within 72 hours after notification of the final test result. Requests must be submitted to the Drug Program Coordinator.

The employee may be required to pay the associated costs of retest in advance.

I. Release of Test Results

All information, interviews, reports, statements, memoranda and tests results, written or otherwise, received by the employer through its drug and alcohol testing program are confidential communications and may not be used or received in evidence, obtained in discovery, or disclosed in any public or private proceedings except in accordance with the Policy Consent/Release Form.

Test results shall not be released by the School Board, beyond the MRO and school system's management without the individual's written authorization. However, all employees will be required to execute a consent/release form permitting the Board to release test results and related information to the Unemployment Compensation Commission, or other relevant government agencies.

The MRO shall retain the individual test results for five (5) years.

J. Discipline

The School Board will discipline, including discharge, employees for any violation of the policy, including refusing to submit to screening, to execute a release, or otherwise cooperate with an investigation or search by the school system. Disciplinary measures will be instituted in accordance with state and federal laws.

All employees who test positive in a confirmative substance test will be subject to discipline up to and including discharge. Rehabilitation, at a pre-approved treatment provider, may be available to individuals who violate the policy. However, unless other provisions are available to the affected individual, assistance will be limited to the degree of treatment provided within the school system's Employee Benefit's Plan. The Drug Program Coordinator should be contacted for guidance.

No employee may be returned to regular duties after any rehabilitation or testing positive unless released for duty by the school system's MRO. Any employee returned to duty after violating the policy or testing positive will be subject to aftercare and random testing as set out in a written Probation Agreement.

K. Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

The School Board's EAP shall include education and training for supervisors who are authorized to determine reasonable suspicion testing. These supervisors must receive a minimum of 60 minutes of training on alcohol abuse and an additional 60 minutes of training on controlled substance use and abuse.

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The training shall cover the physical, behavioral, speech and performance indicators of probable use and misuse of alcohol and controlled substances. Documentation of training attendance must be maintained.

The Drug Program Coordinator should be contacted for further guidance.

L. Investigation/Searches

Where a supervisor has reasonable cause to suspect that an employee has violated the substance abuse policy, he or she may inspect vehicles which an employee brings on the school board's property, lockers, work areas, desks, purses, briefcases, tool boxes or other belongings, and at locations where school related activities are being conducted without prior notice in order to ensure a work environment free of prohibited substances. An employee may be asked to be present and remove a personal lock. Where the employee is not present or refuses to remove a personal lock, the Drug Program Coordinator will do so for him or her. The School Board may release any illegal, or controlled drugs, or paraphernalia to appropriate law enforcement authorities.

All searches should be coordinated with the Drug Program Coordinator.

NOTE

These procedures should not be construed as contractual in any nature. They represent the School Board's current guidelines in dealing with a developing problem under evolving laws and facts, and may be changed in accordance with school system policy and state and federal law.

Blount County Board of Education Applicant/Employee Consent Form

______, do hereby give my consent to the (please print) Blount County Board of Education to collect a urine and/or blood sample from me on this date, and I further give my consent to the Blount County Board of Education and/or its designees to forward the sample(s) to the testing laboratory for its performance of appropriate tests thereon to identify the presence of drugs and/or alcohol. I further give the laboratory my permission to release the results of such tests to the Blount County Board of Education's Medical Review Officer, John J Davis, M.D. I understand that the refusal to submit to testing or a positive test result will affect my initial or continued employment and result in disciplinary action as described in the Blount County Board of Education Drug and Alcohol Policy. I also understand that it is not the purpose of this test to identify any disability I may have.

______Date Employee Signature ______Date Witness

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10.6 Use of Tobacco Products Prohibited on School Property

The use of tobacco and tobacco products in any form is expressly prohibited on all property owned by the Blount County Board of Education at any time. This policy applies to all employees, students and the public.

Smoking and the use of tobacco in any other form by teachers and other school employees are prohibited in school buildings or while supervising students.

(Revised June 3, 1996) (Revised June 3, 1996) (Added May 3, 1993)

An employee found to be in violation of this policy shall receive on the first offense a written reprimand and notice to comply with the policy. A second violation of the policy will result in a second written reprimand and referral of the employee to the Superintendent of Education or his designee for a conference and resolution of the infraction that may include the employee signing an agreement to comply with the policy. Failure to reach such an agreement or any further violation of the policy will subject the employee to possible termination of employment. (Added June 3, 1996)

10.7 Television Surveillance Cameras

To provide and maintain a safe and secure environment for students, staff and authorized visitors, the Blount County Board of Education may use surveillance equipment on properties owned and/or maintained by the school system. Properties include buildings and grounds as well as vehicles owned and/or operated by the system. Training shall be provided for authorized persons in the use, maintenance and storage of equipment and tapes, and on applicable laws related to the use of surveillance equipment, if any. Individual schools shall establish a system for maintenance and storage of equipment and tapes. Equipment and tapes shall be stored in secure places with access by authorized persons only. All school personnel, students, and parents shall be informed that they are subject to being videotaped while in school buildings, on school grounds, at school events, and on system-owned/maintained vehicles. Any information obtained through the use of surveillance equipment shall be used only for school disciplinary or law enforcement purposes. (Added May 1, 1995) 10.8 Metal Detectors

To provide and maintain a safe and secure environment for students, staff, and authorized visitors, the Blount County Board of Education may employ the use of metal detectors. Stationary and/or mobile metal detectors may be used. Training shall be provided for authorized persons on the use, maintenance, and storage of said equipment and on laws and procedures for conducting searches. Particular circumstances may call for private, hand-held metal detector searches. All metal detector searches shall be conducted by school board employees. Any information obtained through the use of metal detectors shall be used only for disciplinary or law enforcement purposes. (Added May 1, 1995)

10.9 Possession of Deadly Weapons and Firearms on Premises of Schools is Prohibited

The Board prohibits all persons, other than authorized law enforcement personnel, from possessing, using, discharging, transferring or distributing any firearm or other dangerous instruments on school

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property twenty four hours a day, seven days a week and at all school sponsored events, including in one's motor vehicle on school property or at such event regardless. A license or permit to carry or possess a firearm or other weapon is not an exception to this policy. Further, no student or employee shall have in his or her possession a firearm on school board property. Violators shall be subject to action of the Board and/or law enforcement officials. School personnel who violate this policy shall be subject to reprimand, dismissal and/or prosecution by the Board and/or law enforcement officials.

The term "firearm" means any instrument that is designed to or may be readily converted to expel a projectile by the action of explosive or air power. The term includes any part of a firearm including the frame or receiver of a firearm.

The term "deadly weapon" means any instrument falling under the definition of "deadly weapon" under Code of Alabama Section 13A-1-2 (2003) (the "Criminal Code"). The Criminal Code states that a deadly weapon is "(a) firearm or anything manifestly designed, made or adapted for the purpose of inflicting death or serious injury," and that the "term includes, but is not limited to, a pistol, rifle, or shotgun; or a switch-blade knife, gravity knife, stiletto, sword, or dagger, or any billy, black-jack, bludgeon, or metal knuckles." Code of Alabama Section 13A-1-2 (2003). (Added October 7, 2013)

No person shall knowingly with intent to do bodily harm carry or possess a deadly weapon on the premises of a public school.

Possession of a deadly weapon with the intent to do bodily harm on the premises of a public school is in violation of the Code of Alabama 1975 is a Class C felony.

Law enforcement officers certified by the Alabama Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission are exempt from this policy. (Revised and approved November 27, 2000) (Revised and approved October 7, 2013)

10.10 Parent or Guardian Liable for Damages Caused by Child

The parent or parents, guardian, or other person having control of any minor under the age of 18 years with whom the minor is living and who have custody of the minor shall be liable for the actual damages sustained, but not exceeding the sum of $1,000, plus the court costs of the action, to any person and the Blount County Board of Education for all damages proximately caused by the injury to, or destruction of, any property, real, personal or mixed, by the intentional willful, or malicious act or acts of the minor. Except, approved foster parents of the Department of Human Resources shall not be liable for damages caused by foster children.

Nothing in this policy shall be construed to limit the liability of any such parent or parents as the same may now otherwise exist under the laws of the State of Alabama. (Act 94-819 as it amended Section 6-5-380 of the Code of Alabama 1975) (Added May 1, 1995)

10.11 Drug Dealing

A person who unlawfully sells, furnishes, or gives a controlled substance to a minor may be liable for injury or damage or both suffered by a third person caused by or resulting from the use of the controlled substance by the minor, if the sale, furnishing, or giving of the controlled substance is the proximate cause of the injury or damage.

Conviction under any criminal law relating to the unlawful sale, furnishing, or giving of a controlled substance shall conclusively establish an unlawful sale, furnishing, or giving of a controlled substance under this policy. Upon the death of a party, the cause of action or right to the cause of action shall

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survive to the estate of the party. (Act 94-783. Controlled substance is defined in Section 20-2-2, Code of Alabama 1975.) (Added May 1, 1995)

10.12 Assault on a Teacher or Employee of the Blount County Board of Education

A person commits the crime of assault in the second degree (Class C felony) if the person assaults with intent to cause serious physical injury to a teacher or to an employee of the Blount County Board of Education during or as a result of the performance of his or her duty. (Act 94-794, Section 13A-6- 21 of the Code of Alabama 1975) (Added May 1, 1995)

10.13 Required Actions for Drugs, Alcohol, Weapons, Physical Harm, or Threatened Harm

If a person is found to have violated a Board of Education Policy concerning drugs, alcohol, weapons, physical harm to a person or threatened physical harm to a person, the person may not be readmitted to the public schools of this state until criminal charges, if any, have been disposed of by appropriate authorities and the person has satisfied all other requirements imposed by the Board as a condition for readmission. (Act 94-784 as it amends Section 16-1-24.1, Code of Alabama 1975) (Added May 1, 1995)

10.14 Law Enforcement Agencies Authorized to Make Periodic, Unannounced Visits to Schools

Law enforcement agencies having jurisdiction in the locality of a school hereby are granted permission by the Blount County Board of Education to make periodic, unannounced visits to all schools under the supervision of the Superintendent and local principal for the purpose of detecting the presence of illegal drugs provided that they comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws and that they practice a reasonableness in not disrupting the educational process in schools such as disrupting administration of required state testing programs. These periodic visits shall be unannounced to anyone except the local superintendent and building principals.

In the event that such visits by law enforcement agencies become disruptive or so frequent that such visits are considered harassment by the principal, the principal of the subject school shall report the matter to the Superintendent of Education who shall meet with the applicable sheriff, police chief or other agency head to resolve the matter.

Principals of schools shall work cooperatively with law enforcement agencies in helping to keep schools free of illegal drugs.

(290-030-010-.06: Regulations Governing Public, Non-Public Accredited and Non-accredited Schools, Alabama Administrative Code, May 11, 1995.) (Added June 3, 1996)

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10.15 Emergency Drills

The Blount County Board of Education requires that at least one (1) emergency drill be held at each school during each month while school is in session, including summer school session(s). Emergency drills include fire drills, severe weather drills, and lock down or "code red" drills as described in the school and system safety plans.

A fire drill shall require complete evacuation of the building. A severe weather/tornado drill should be conducted a minimum of two times yearly. The first held during the months of September, October or November and the second during the months of January, February or March. A lockdown drill for safety and security emergencies is to be scheduled during the first six weeks of each semester. Additional lockdown drills, fire drills, and weather drills may be scheduled at any time to complete the requirement of one drill per month.

Training for faculty and staff on procedures for all emergency drills as well as information in the school safety plan shall be conducted at least annually.

The principal shall report the dates of annual safety training as well as dates of all safety drills in the manner prescribed by the State Department of Education and the Superintendent. Failure of a principal to conduct and report safety drills and training according to prescribed rules shall result in appropriate disciplinary action.

(Added October 7, 2013)

10.16 Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

Purpose

To provide guidance in the management of administration of a school-based AED program. Each school campus will be equipped with a minimum of one AED and will maintain a select number of employees assigned to the Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT), which will have current certification in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is a condition that occurs when the electrical impulses of the human heart malfunction causing a disturbance in the heart’s electrical rhythm called ventricular fibrillation (VF). This erratic and ineffective electrical heart rhythm causes complete cessation of the heart’s normal function of pumping blood resulting in sudden death. The most effective treatment for this condition is the administration of an electrical current to the heart by a defibrillator, delivered within a short time of the onset of VF.

An AED is used to treat victims who experience SCA. It is only to be applied to victims who are unconscious, without pulse, signs of circulation and normal breathing. The AED will analyze the heart rhythm and advise the operator if a shockable rhythm is detected. If a shockable rhythm is detected, the AED will charge to the appropriate energy level and advise the operator to deliver a shock.

The Board of Education will maintain an AED Program Coordinator with the following responsibilities: Maintain and update the AED Emergency Action Plan/Procedure Coordinate equipment and accessory maintenance Review monthly checklist of all AEDs located on school property Monitor effectiveness of this system Revise procedure as required Communicate with medical director on issues related to medical emergency response program including post-event reviews The Board of Education will have a Medical Advisor of the AED Program. The medical advisor will have on-going responsibility for:

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Providing medical direction for use of AEDs Reviewing and approving guidelines for emergency procedures related to the use of AEDs and CPR Evaluation of post-event review forms and digital files downloaded from the AED (Board Approved October 7, 2013)

10.17 Physical Restraint and Seclusion

POLICY PURPOSE Physical restraint of a student may sometimes be necessary in order to protect the student or other individuals. The purpose of this policy is to ensure that physical restraint is administered appropriately. Blount County Schools places an emphasis under this policy on the prevention and de-escalation of inappropriate behavior, which reduces the risk of injury to students and program staff, as well as facilitates the care, safety, and welfare of our students.

DEFINITIONS Physical restraint is direct physical contact from an adult that prevents or significantly restricts a student’s movement. The term physical restraint does not include mechanical restraint or chemical restraint. Additionally, physical restraint does not include: providing limited physical contact and/or redirection to a student in order to promote safety or to prevent self-injurious behavior; protecting another student; providing physical guidance or prompting to a student when teaching a skill; redirecting attention; providing guidance to a location; providing comfort; or providing limited physical contact as reasonably needed to prevent imminent destruction to school or another person’s property. Chemical restraint is any medication that is used to control violent physical behavior or to restrict the student’s freedom of movement that is not a prescribed treatment for a medical or psychiatric condition of the student. Mechanical restraint is the use of any device or material attached to or adjacent to a student’s body that is intended to restrict the normal freedom of movement and which cannot be easily removed by the student. The term does not include an adaptive or protective device recommended by a physician or therapist. The term also does not include seatbelts and other safety equipment when used to secure students during transportation. Seclusion is a procedure that isolates and confines the student in a separate, locked area until he or she is no longer an immediate danger to himself/herself or others. Seclusion occurs in a specifically constructed or designated room or space that is physically isolated from common areas and from which the student is physically prevented from leaving. Seclusion does not include situations in which a staff member trained in the use of de-escalation techniques or restraint is physically present in the same unlocked room as the student; time-out as defined herein; in-school suspension; detention; or a student-requested break in a different location in the room or in a separate room. Time-out is behavioral intervention in which the student is temporarily removed from the learning activity. Seclusion is a procedure that isolates and confines a student in a separate area until he or she is no longer an immediate danger to himself/herself or others. Time-out is a behavioral intervention in which the student is temporarily removed from the learning activity. Time-out is not seclusion.

REQUIREMENTS Each local school’s principal or his/her designee and each educational program that utilizes physical restraint under this policy will provide staff with guidelines and procedural information regarding physical restraint and will arrange for the appropriate training of those designated staff members that may be called upon to physically restrain a student. This training of designated staff members shall be provided as a part of a program which addresses prevention and de-escalation techniques as well as positive behavioral intervention strategies. The training of designated staff members will be based on evidence-based techniques and strategies when possible. Each local school’s principal or his/her designee and each educational program that utilizes physical restraint will maintain written or electronic documentation on training provided at the local school regarding physical restraint and the list of participants in each training session. Records of such

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training will be made available to the Alabama Department of Education or any member of the public upon request. Each local school’s principal or his/her designee and each educational program that utilizes physical restraint is responsible for generating and maintaining incident and debriefing reports of the use of restraint at the local school and for gathering/reporting data to the school system’s Board of Education and to the Alabama Department of Education annually. The use of physical restraint will be monitored by each local school’s principal or his/her designee or program’s coordinator on an ongoing basis to ensure fidelity of implementation. Follow-up training will be provided following any situations in which procedures are not being followed. Each local school’s principal or his/her designee and each educational program that utilizes physical restraint shall ensure that following an incident of restraint or seclusion of a student, all school personnel involved in the incident and appropriate administrative staff participate in a debriefing session for the purpose of planning to prevent or reduce the reoccurrence of the use of restraint. A student’s parent or legal guardian will be provided notification of this debriefing session and afforded the opportunity to attend or to request that the debriefing session be rescheduled. The debriefing session shall occur no later than five school days following the imposition of physical restraint or seclusion, unless the debriefing session is delayed, at the request of a student’s parent or legal guardian, so that the parent or legal guardian may attend. Each local school’s principal or his/her designee and each educational program that utilizes physical restraint will provide written notification to a student’s parent or legal guardian when physical restraint is used on a student within a reasonable time following the restraint preferably not to exceed one school day from the use of restraint. Each local school’s principal or his/her designee and each educational program will provide written notification to a student’s parent or legal guardian when their child is removed from his/her school or program setting by emergency, medical, or law enforcement personnel within a reasonable time following the removal preferably not to exceed one school day from the removal. Each student’s parent or legal guardian will be provided information regarding the school or program’s policies governing the use of physical restraint. This information will be provided to parents at the beginning of each school year or upon the student’s enrollment if the student enrolls after school has started. To fulfill this requirement, the Code of Student Conduct will contain the following excerpt of the Physical Restraint and Seclusion Policy:

As a part of the policies and procedures of Blount County Schools, the use of physical restraint is prohibited in the system and its educational programs except in those situations in which the student is an immediate danger to himself/herself or others and the student is not responsive to less intensive behavioral interventions including verbal directives or other de-escalation techniques. Physical restraint is expressly prohibited when used as a form of discipline or punishment. The use of other physical restraint, chemical restraint, mechanical restraint, or seclusion is prohibited in the school system and its educational programs.

The use of restraint may occur along with other emergency actions such as the school seeking assistance from law enforcement, School Resource Officers and/or emergency medical personnel which could result in a removal of the student by such personnel.

CLARIFICATIONS Nothing in this policy shall be construed to interfere with the school system’s or school personnel’s authority to utilize instructional, disciplinary or other classroom management techniques or approaches not specifically addressed in this Board of Education Policy Manual, to maintain a safe and orderly environment conducive to successful instruction and learning. Nothing in this policy modifies the rights of school personnel to use reasonable force as permitted under the Code of Alabama, 1975, §16-1-14 or modifies the rules and procedures governing discipline under the Code of Alabama, 1975, §16-28-12. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to prohibit the school system’s or school personnel’s right to take reasonable action to diffuse or break up a student fight or altercation.

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Nothing in this policy shall be construed to prohibit the school system’s or school personnel from taking reasonable action to obtain possession of a weapon or other dangerous objects on a student or within a control of a student. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to eliminate or restrict the ability of school personnel to use his or her discretion in the use of physical restraint as provided in this policy to protect students or others from imminent harm or bodily injury. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to create a criminal offense or a private cause of action against any local board of education or program or its agents or employees. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to interfere with the duties of law enforcement or emergency medical personnel or to interfere with the rights of the school system or school personnel from seeking assistance from law enforcement and/or emergency medical personnel.

ADOPTED: LEGAL REF: Code of Alabama, Rules of State Board of Education, 290-3-1-.02(1)(f) (Board Approved October 7, 2013)

10.18 Annalyn’s Law

Pursuant to Annalyn’s Law, the superintendent shall be notified by local law enforcement when a low-risk juvenile sex offender is enrolled or attending school within the board’s jurisdiction for the purpose of appropriate supervision during the school day and during school activities.

Section 1. Definitions In this policy, these terms shall have the following meanings: a) “Plan” refers to the “individualized student safety plan” developed following the student’s adjudication and/or enrollment in the school to serve as a behavior contract between the student and the school. b) “School” refers to “all school property and school-sponsored functions including, but not c) limited to, classroom instructional time, assemblies, athletic events, extracurricular activities, and school bus transportation” related to the student’s current school of record. d) “Student” refers to “the low-risk juvenile sex offender” designated by a juvenile court judge as having a low risk of re-offense. e) “Teachers and staff with supervision over the student” or “supervision team” refers to f) school officials or staff who have a specific responsibility for the student, including the school principal, the student’s assigned teachers and/or coaches, the student’s counselor, and if applicable, the student’s bus driver, during the subject school year and who will be privy to information regarding the student’s status. Teachers and staff with only passing and/or general contact with the student shall not be privy to information regarding the student’s status. g) “Victim” refers to the victim, if known by and attending the same school as the student, of the offense for which the student was adjudicated delinquent.

Section 2. Notification

(a) Current Students In the event a currently enrolled student is adjudicated delinquent and designated “low- risk” by the juvenile court, local law enforcement is expected to notify the local superintendent and principal of the student’s school in writing.

(b) Newly Enrolled Students In the event a student seeks to enroll in the district as a new student, and that student has been previously designated as a low-risk juvenile sex offender, local law enforcement is expected to notify the local superintendent and principal of the student’s school in writing.

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(c) Students That Change Schools Within the District In the event a currently enrolled student transfers to another school in the district or is promoted to another school in the district, the principal of the original school should notify designated law enforcement of the change as soon as practicable.

Following that notification, the principal of the original school should orally or in writing brief the principal of the new school regarding the original plan and the transferring student’s status and circumstances. Regardless, the principal of the prior school must provide the student’s records and safety plan to the principal of the new school as soon as practicable.

The new principal should review the plan and meet with the student, the student’s parent or guardian, and the anticipated new supervision team to determine whether the current terms are sufficient or should be adjusted based on the student’s circumstances.

(d) School Staff Changes In the event the principal or a member of the supervision team leaves his position or is no longer responsible for supervising the student, a replacement team member should be named, if necessary and appropriate, and briefed by the principal or the most senior member of the supervision team regarding the student’s status and plan.

The student, his parent or guardian, and other members of the supervision team should be notified of changes to the supervision team within a reasonable timeframe.

Section 3. Plan Development and Maintenance

Upon proper notification from law enforcement, the student’s principal or designee will call together the anticipated supervision team to meet with the student and/or the student’s parent or guardian to develop an appropriate plan. This meeting should take place within 10 school days or as soon as practicable. In the event the student’s parent or guardian is unable or unwilling to meet, the principal or designee and the supervision team should meet with the student within a reasonable timeframe to develop an appropriate plan.

In the event the victim attends the same school as the student, the plan should include measures to reduce the likelihood of victim and student interaction.

The terms of the plan and any updates to it must be in writing and approved by the principal or designee before being distributed to the student and the student’s parent or guardian, as well as the supervision team.

The principal or designee should meet with the student, the student’s parent or guardian, and the supervision team at least annually, but as often as deemed necessary by the principal or designee to assess the student’s status and to determine whether adjustments should be made to the plan.

Section 4. Supervision

The student will be subject to the general Student Code of Conduct and any other conditions deemed necessary by the principal or designee as incorporated in the student’s plan.

Members of the supervision team should report any suspected violations of the plan to the principal or designee.

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The school officials and staff responsible for supervising the student on a daily basis should do so in a manner that is discrete and unobtrusive.

Section 5. Students with Disabilities

Discipline of students with disabilities will be subject to applicable limitations and requirements imposed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and/or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and implementing regulations.

Section 6. Violations of the Plan

In the event the student violates the Student Code of Conduct or the plan, the student may be subject to discipline pursuant to board policy and/or reassessment of the plan’s conditions.

Section 7. Challenges to the Plan

In the event the student and/or his parent or guardian object to conditions of the plan or the application of a sanction, a challenge must be submitted in writing to the superintendent or his designee to consider whether adjustment of the plan or response modification is warranted. The superintendent’s decision shall be final. A response that constitutes disciplinary action will adhere to the applicable school disciplinary policies and procedures and the student will be afforded due process thereunder.

Section 8. Confidentiality

Information received by school officials or staff related to the student’s delinquent status must be treated as confidential from other students, staff members, officials and stakeholders. Any document identifying the student’s status should be safeguarded from unintentional disclosure by the members of the supervision team. Any school official or school employee who improperly discloses the student’s status to any other person may be subject to school discipline and/or criminal charges as provided by law.

Section 9. Retaliation

Members of the supervision team should make every effort to treat the student with the same respect and courtesy to which every student is entitled. The team is reminded that the student has been deemed by the juvenile court as not likely to reoffend and should be encouraged to fully integrate into the student body as a successful student. Mistreatment of any student may be cause for discipline.

Section 10. Procedures

The superintendent shall have the authority to develop appropriate training and additional procedures for staff members in furtherance of this policy.

Legal Reference: Ala. Act No. 2018-528, Ala. Code § 16-1-51.1 (1975).

(Adopted May 22, 2019)

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Appreciation is extended to the members of the Personnel Policy Committees for their valuable contribution in the development of written school board policies for the Blount County School System. Many hours of work by the members of these committees are represented by the personnel policies that follow.

Members of the Teacher Personnel Committee were:

Mr. Randall Murphree Ms. Betty H. Mullins Mr. Robert Harris Ms. Rogene Jackson Ms. Carolyn Bryson Mr. Hershel Buchanan Ms. Louise Isley Mr. Richard Cates

Members of the STUDENT COMMITTEE were:

Appalachian Locust Fork Lynn McKay Ann Harris Tim Peek Mark Carter

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Teresa Henderson Beth McHan Brent Baty Danny Smith

Hayden Susan Moore Cecil Bradford Alan Smith Cindy Sherrell Diane Miller

Appreciation is extended to the members of the personnel policy committees for their valuable contribution in the revision of written school board policies for the Blount County Board of Education.

1975 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Mr. Richard Cates Mr. Kenneth Golden Mr. Warren Lipscomb Ms. Louise Isley Ms. Euthema L. Harvey Ms. Inez P. Martin Ms. Carolyn Bryson Ms. Virginia Peoples Mr. Randall Murphree

STUDENT COMMITTEE

Appalachian Locust Fork Margie Bales Charlotte Ann Jett Ronnie Rogers Andy Higginbotham

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Frank Jackson Sloan Karen Jo Griffin Susan Elaine Young James Lloyd Brown

Hayden Susan Moore Susan Culwell Jayne Ann Clowdus Douglas Rodgers Thomas Bain Kent

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1976 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Mr. Robert D. Harris Mr. Bobby Dodd Ellis Mr. J. D. Webb Mr. Herschel Buchanan Mr. Frank Carr Mr. Warren Lipscomb Mr. James E. Carr Mr. Randal Simmons Ms. Diane Palmer Ms. Lynn Dimon Mr. David F. Miller

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Linda J. Metzler Martin Lewis Blackwood Tommy Lynn Hicks Theresa Gail Walden

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Angie R. Dutton F. Chris Green Charles M. Morrison Angela Dean Brothers

Hayden Susan Moore Amy Denise Thomas Patti Ann Maze Jeffery D. Craven Kerry Gene Goble

1977 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Wynelle Davis Mr. John W. Robertson Mr. John W. Graves Ms. Betty Mullins Ms. Peggy White Mr. Charles Carr Mr. Thomas B. Boatman Mr. Birl Bryson Mr. David F. Miller Mr. J. D. Webb Mr. Greg Russell

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Diane Hicks Debbie Sherbet Jeff A. Gargus Randy Jim Rowan

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Janet Baba Marsha Morrison Gary Thomas Steve Sanders

Hayden Susan Moore Lori Writesman Sharla M. Burtram Ricky Jinright Tim G. Whitley

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1978 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Eleanor M. Williams Ms. Rita Faye Dunn Mr. Jerry Taylor Mr. Donny Tipton Ms. Charline Webb Ms. Gay Rutherford Mr. Raymond M. Simmons Mr. Charles Carr Ms. Karen Campbell Ms. Anita Loftis Ms. Lynnell Jones Ms. Bobbie Ann Hyatt Mr. Frank Carr Mr. William Brindza Ms. Shirleen Thomas (Support Personnel) Ms. Jean Arnold(School Patron) Mr. Bill Hudson (Support Personnel) Ms. Violet Howell (School Patron) Mr. David F. Miller

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Sharron A. Alldredge Pam K. Massey Glenn Tolbert Les T. Brooks Cleveland J. B. Pennington

Michael E. Faust Steve David King Sandra G. Dean Debra Lynn Brown Hayden Susan Moore

Daniel H. Smith Charlotte Faye Frachiseur Anita Kay Reid Pat Whitley

1979 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Becky Cook Ms. Diane Palmer Ms. Margaret Clevenger Ms. Carrie Ash Ms. Barbara Amberson Mr. Charles Carr Mr. Clyde Posey Ms. Paulette Burke Ms. Peggy White Mr. David Whitt Ms. Delores Amend Mr. Gene T. Vinson Ms. Vera Nell Vaughn Mr. Gary McGill Ms. Sarah Hamrick (Support Personnel) Ms. Pauline Gilbert(Support Personnel) Mr. Harvey Frachiseur (School Patron) Ms. Robert Wamble (School Patron) Mr. David F. Miller

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Becky A. Brothers Debbie Warnix Chuck Lacks James Cleveland

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Cully Doty Marsha Morrison Becky Latta Bryan Arnold

Hayden Susan Moore Barry J. Stovers Tonya Brown Jana E. Wood Frank Lang

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1980 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Denise Eller Ms. Susan Hazelrig Mr. James Bryson Ms. Betty Mullins Mr. James W. Reali Mr. Tom Boatman Ms. Mitchie Clegg Ms. Paulette Esco Ms. Paula K. Kretzschmar Mr. Cary C. Heptinstall Ms. Donna Gardner Mr. James E. Carr Mr. Rod Doty Mr. Donnie Breaseale Ms. Sandra Standridge (Support Personnel) Ms. Benny Joe Grigsby(School Patron) Ms. Jeanette Horton (Support Personnel) Mr. David F. Miller Ms. Linda Laughlin (School Patron)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Renee Farley Debra Lingo Danny Putman Richard Irvin

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Becky Latta Beverly Kate Caswell J. C. Dunn Walter Keith Nichols

Hayden High Susan Moore Laura Clair Evans Kristi Lynn Eubanks Michael Leonard Sparks Jeffrey Paul Frachiseur

1981 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Annie Sexton Ms. Barbara Garrett Ms. Rosie Dunn Ms. Gay Rutherford Mr. Walter D. Self Mr. Charles Carr Ms. Linda Johnson Ms. Anita Loftis Ms. Carolyn Murphree Mr. Philip McAfee Ms. Meredith Adams Mr. J. D. Webb Mr. Michael Sellers Mr. Larry Johnson Ms. Mary McCullough (Support Personnel) Ms. Kathy Boring (School Patron) Ms. Doris Johns (Support Personnel) Ms. Randa NeSmith (School Patron) Mr. David F. Miller

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Henry M. Earnest Richard Eugene Hornbuckle Tracy June Tidwell Debra Janet Lingo

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Mary Beth Pass Kathy King James C. Dunn Keith Nichols

Hayden Susan Moore Danna L. Swann Angela Mason Joe M. Thomas Kevin Helfrich

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1982 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Miss Karen Campbell Mr. Tony H. Spinks Ms. Vickie Hallman Ms. Carrie Ash Mr. Maxey C. Baty Mr. Donald R. Jones Ms. Deborah Jane Hall Ms. Anita Loftis Ms. Julia Miller Mr. Carey C. Heptinstall Mr. Gary Baldwin Mr. Birl Bryson Mr. Bobby D. Ellis Mr. Robert Nichols Ms. Joan Hancock (Support Personnel) Ms. Janice Mize(School Patron) Ms. Daphine Nash (Support Personnel) Ms. Laura Richards (School Patron) Mr. David F. Miller

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Tracy June Tidwell Donna Kaye Lingo Steve Franklin Love Debbie Ann Sowerwine

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Steve Edward Latta Lynda Fay Oden Tina Michelle Sims John Stephen Cantrell

Hayden Susan Moore Lori Ann Sosebee Angela Mason Sandy Bea Niblett Dan Haynes

1983 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms.Karen Campbell Mr. Bob Burgess Ms. Rosie Dunn Ms. Marian B. Wood Ms. Rosalind Martin Ms. Carolyn Bryson Mr. Donald O. Standridge Ms. Chela Stephenson Ms. Dianne King Ms. Judy Ellis Ms. Jan Hart Ms. Kay Skinner (School Patron) Ms. Joan Hancock (Support Personnel) Ms. Virginia Blocker (School Patron) Mr. John Carl Acton (Support Personnel) Mr. Ronnie Syphurs Mr. Jim Carr Mr. Gary McGill Mr. David F. Miller

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Bitsy Brothers Shelia Love John Walker Randy Bevis

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Terri Renee Box Michael Lynn Wood Delaine Pamela Hazelrig Sarah Lisabeth Martin

Hayden Susan Moore Lori Ayn Sosebee Angela Shereen Mason Sandy Bea Niblett Robert Dan Haynes

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1984 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Patricia Burton Ms. Judith Davidson Mr. Donny Tipton Ms. Jeannene D. Patterson Ms. Rosalind Martin Ms. Chela Stephenson Ms. Nora Hornsby Mr. Bruce McAfee Mr. John T. Hays Mr. Frank Carr Ms. Janice Hart Mr. Rod Doty Ms. Nelda Culwell Mr. Donnie Breaseale Ms. Sarah Hamrick (Support Personnel) Ms. Janice Halstead (School Patron) Ms. Judy McDonald (Support Personnel) Ms. Jimmy Ponder (School Patron) Mr. David F. Miller

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Audria Adamson Rhonda June Thomas Glenn Puckett Ernie Allan Swindle

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Amy Chastain Casa Williamson Heath Moorer Joe Southwell

Hayden Susan Moore Tammy M. Hallmark Farrell Walker Suzette L. Blair Terri Jackson

1985 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Rosie Dunn Ms. Chela Stephenson Ms. Alesia Glliland Mr. Carey Heptinstall Mr. Johnny Lowry Mr. Bobby D. Ellis Mr. Raymond M. Simmons ` Mr. Donnie Tipton Ms. Amelia Vinson Mr. Wilburn Dale Thomas Ms. Meredith S. Adams Ms. Joan Hancock (Support Personnel) Mr. Randyal Stevie Morton Ms. Malinda Morton(Support Personnel) Ms. Marian Wood Ms. Marcena Bryson (School Patron) Ms. Dianne Martin Ms. Vicky Washburn (School Patron) Mr. David F. Miller

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Charles Scott Engle Greg Armstrong Anita D. Allcorn Melinda Richey

Cleveland J. B. Pennington George Harold Talley Patti Nichole Hipp Charlene Blackwood Joseph Carlton Southwell

Hayden Susan Moore Starla Leanna Suttles James Robert Light Kevin Michael Fulmer Sandra Marshea Frachiseur

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1986 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Mr. Jerry Taylor Mr. William Brindza Mr. Chester Masters Ms. Louise Isley Ms. Ann Lewis Mr. Carey Heptinstall Ms. Carolyn Murphree Ms. Vera Nell Vaughn Ms. Meredith Parkins Mr. Donald O. Standridge Mr. David F. Miller Ms. Jeanette Horton(Support Personnel) Mr. Jim Carr Ms. Betty Green (Support Personnel) Ms. Diane Palmer Mr. Eric Bell (School Patron) Ms. Donnah Brand Ms. Latane Mooneyham (School Patron)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Charles Scott Engle Tommy F. Hallmark Kelly Renee Hicks Jenny D. Speegle

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Misty Dawn Swann Joseph Southwell Chris Royal Jennifer Blackwood

Hayden Susan Moore Renaldo Ardante Smiley Jackson Scott Miller Paula Denise Duke Anita Michelle Tidwell

1987 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Mr. Mike Peoples Mr. Larry Reid Ms. Sherri Alldredge Ms. Donnah Brand Ms. Mitchie Faye Neel Ms. Alma Lee Wright Ms. Peggy White Ms. Louise Isley Ms. Meredith Parkins Mr. Carey Heptinstall Mr. David F. Miller Mr. Larry Adams Mr. Royce Cox Mr. Frank Carr Mr. John Carl Acton (Support Personnel) Mr. Larry Dixon (School Patron) Ms. Judy McDonald (Support Personnel) Ms. Mary Shaddrix (School Patron)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Myron Frank Whitman Jeremy Dalton Goodwin Marcia Brooke Puckett Tina Renee Tawbush

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Gala Sue Presley Barry Smith Gerald Gardner Gilliland Laura Johnston

Hayden Susan Moore Chris R. Armstrong Scott Amos Smallwood Andrea Armstrong Virginia Lee Boatman

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1988 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Mr. Ernie Willingham Mr. Randal Steve Morton Mr. Johnny M. Lowry Ms. Charlotte Goble Ms. Ann Lewis Ms. Mary Nichols Ms. Carolyn Murphree Ms. Lou Isley Ms. Laura Lane Mr. Carey Heptinstall Mr. David F. Miller Mr. Donnie Breaseale Mr. Gene Vinson Mr. Robert Burgess Ms. Violet Culwell (Support Personnel) Mr. Charles Hathorn (School Patron) Ms. Patricia Partain (Support Personnel) Mr. Donnie Thomas (School Patron)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Michael Scott Dodd Edna Elaine McKay Leslie Ann Bryson Dana Shawn Morse

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Christopher L. Cone Greg Neill Lee M. Moon Clare Williams

Hayden High Susan Moore Shelly Leigh Hurt V. Lee Boatman Brent Bryan Scott Amos Smallwood

1989 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Mr. Jerry Taylor Mr. Bob Burgess Mr. Larry Woods Ms. Janice Carter Ms. Ann Lewis Mr. George Lang Ms. Peggy White Ms. Debra Goodwin Ms. Regina Diann Campbell Ms. Euthema Harvey Mr. David F. Miller Mr. James E. Carr Mr. Robert D. Harris Mr. Robert Bryant (School Patron) Ms. Sue Posey (Support Personnel) Ms. Edna Thomas (School Patron) Ms. Joanne R. Light (Support Personnel)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Errick Smith Mark Calvert Jennifer Carr Vanessa McDonnell

Cleveland J.B. Pennington Carol Washburn Clare Williams Jimmy Latta Brant Meisner

Hayden High School Susan Moore Mary Ann Anderson Dana Mayo Heath Vines Brian Ginn

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1990 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms.Donnah Brand Ms. Linda S. Parker Mr. Mark Hitt Ms. Meredith Parkins Ms. Euthema Harvey Ms. Faye Pruett Mr. Larry J. Johnson Mr. Randal K. Simmons Ms. Hazel Jones Mr. Larry Smith Ms. Ann Lewis Ms. Chela H. Stephenson Ms. Cynthia Longshore (Support Personnel) Ms. Marian Wood Ms. Betty Painter (Support Personnel) Ms. Opie Balch (School Patron) Mr. David F. Miller (Chairman) Ms. Diane Pinyan (School Patron)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Shannon Harton Matt Hallman Amy Robinson Angie Thomas

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Rhonda Burttram Allen Murphy Jimmy Latta Shawn McHan

Hayden High Susan Moore Lora May Tom Patterson Randy A. Davis Marla Little

1991 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Mr. Jim Golden Mr. David F. Miller (Chairman) Ms. Sharon Lee Blocker Ms. Chela Stephenson Ms. Donna McHan Martin Ms. Denise F. Austin Ms. Amelia Vinson Mr. Ben Hays (Principal) Mr. Clyde Posey Mr. Gary Pate (Assistant Principal) Ms. Carolyn Murphree (BCEA President) Mr. John Acton (Support Personnel) Mr. Steve Morton Ms. Sue Posey (Support Personnel) Ms. Marian Wood Ms. Diane Alldredge (School Patron) Ms. Betty Brindza Ms. Barbara Reeves (School Patron)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Tommy Bellew John Cater Anna Presley Misti Morrow

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Christy Hallman Shawn McHan James E. Bullard Doug Foust

Hayden High Susan Moore Sarah Acton Kim Smith John Russell Mike Cornelius

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1993 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Donna Hicks Ms. Carolyn Foster Ms. Sharon Lee Blocker Ms. Donna Brand Ms. Ann Lewis Ms. Linda Gibbs Mr. Gary L. McHan Ms. Sarah Pass Ms. Meredith A. Parkins Ms. Sondra Causey Ms. Linda Williams (BCEA President-Elect) Mr. Michael Peoples(Assistant Principal) Mr. Frank F. Carr (Principal) Ms. Terry Purdy (School Patron) Ms. Pauline Gilbert (Support Personnel) Mr. Larry Dixon (School Patron) Ms. Cindy Longshore (Support Personnel) Mr. David F. Miller (Chairman)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Jamie Beard Eric McCay Kristina Hicks Lisa McWhorter

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Amy Cornelius John Sivley Jamie Burgess Rhonda Wilks

Hayden High Susan Moore Brandon Rodgers Joil Marbut Rhiannon Reynolds Amanda Stephenson

1995 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Peggy Pate Mr. Gary Baldwin Ms. Carolyn Murphree Mr. Steve Love Ms. Ann Lewis Mr. Frankey Blackwood Ms. Helen G. Stephenson Ms. Sondra Causey Ms. Linda Williams (BCEA President) Ms. Louise Isley Ms. Lisa Faust Mr. James E. Carr (Principal) Ms. Carolyn Foster Mr. Daniel Smith (Assistant Principal) Ms. Becky Hicks (Support Personnel) Ms. Kathy Whitley (School Patron) Ms. Linda Fountain (Support Personnel) Ms. Pat Strandridge (School Patron) Mr. David F. Miller (Chairman)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Charity Hill Halie Mantooth Andy Carr Charlie Horn

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Katie Tankersley Lanchon Moody Robbie Presley Wesley Pinyan

Hayden High Susan Moore Beth Armstrong Haley Elrod Josh Stump Jason Holmes

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1997 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Patricia Bellew Mr. Allen Hargett Ms. Carolyn Murphree Mr. Gary Baldwin Ms. Ann Lewis Mr. Steve Love Mr. John Graves (BCEA President) Mr. Frankey Blackwood Ms. Linda Williams Mr. Rodney Green Ms. Lisa Faust Ms. Vicki Scott Mr. Mitchell Johns (Support Personnel) Ms. Linda Melvin (Support Personnel) Ms. Regina Glasscock (School Patron) Ms. Carole Kaetz (School Patron) Mr. Bruce McAfee (Principal) Mr. Phillip Hazelrig (Assistant Principal) Mr. Russell E. Martin (Chairman)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Matt Taylor Sam Hallman Brooke Hicks Christy Peeks

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Robin Crane Paul Malito Paige Walker Cynthia Joy Gardner

Hayden High Susan Moore Jeremy Logan Natasha Waddle Leah Johnson Ross Stewart

1999 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ms. Jennnifer Reid Ms. Janice Graves Mr. Phillip Hazelrig Ms. Margaret Murphree Mr. Gary E. Baldwin Ms. Diane Palmer Mr. Steven F. Love Mr. Frankey Blackwood Mr. Blake Pettus Mr. David Whitt Ms. Nan Adamson Mr. Gary McGill (Principal) Ms. Peggy White (Principal) Ms. Delene McWhorter (Patron) Ms. Cindy Longshore (Support Personnel) Mr. Eddie Lowe (Patron) Ms. Burma Hallmark (Support Personnel) Ms. Linda Williams (BCEA President) Mr. Russell Martin (Assistant Superintendent)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Locust Fork Jessica Morton Connie Hafley Jack Thomason Richard Collins

Cleveland J. B. Pennington Chuck Longshore Stephen M. Breaseale Mandi Chastain Sondra K. Alldredge

Hayden High Susan Moore Phillip Bremmerman Amy Yancey Stephanie Suddeth Matthew Self

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2001 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Donna Hicks Daratha Marsh Patricia Posey Janice Graves Randy Walker Stoney Beavers Kim Phillips Lynda Wilder Brian Kirk Frankey Blackwood Steve Love Rhonda Lindley Kris Thrasher Becky McCay Allen Hargett (Administrator) Linda Parker (Administrator) Nancy Posey (Support) Sandy Mantooth (Support) James Debter (Patron) Tawana Hallmark (Patron) Russell Martin (Assistant Superintendent) Paula Kretzschmar (BCEA President)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Cleveland Jennifer Hitt Jodi Martin Steven Galloway Michael Johnson

Hayden Locust Fork Colene Burns Melissa Hancock Stephen Thomas Daniel Parkins

J. B. Pennington Susan Moore Matthew Robinson Jason Simpson Elissa Crowe Laura Smith

2003 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Mark Hitt Linda Williams Amy Speegle Frankey Blackwood Chris Chambers David Cardwell Brenda Tidwell Lori Weaver Kathy Martin Linda Johnson Janie Novara Jo Ann Williams Amy Williamson Kenny Clay Terra Hancock Mike Peoples (Administrator) Chela Stephenson (Administrator) Francis Douglas (BCEA) Cindy Sosebee (Support) Linda Melvin (Support) Brenda Hill (Patron) Ginger Holt (Patron) Russell Martin (Assistant Superintendent)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Cleveland Tyler Ingram Amanda Miller Beth Phillips Eric Sparks

Hayden Locust Fork Cody Clark Chad Hornbuckle Janele Sharp Kelly McCay

J. B. Pennington Susan Moore Celia Bullard Magen Horton Matt Goble Jerrod Seaton

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2005 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Ernie Willingham Kathy Martin Kristy Posey Linda Williams Clothiel Mallory Gary Baldwin Becky Brothers Greg Neill Olen Goble Frankey Blackwood Tiphanie Maze John Brown Terri Hubauer Brenda Tidwell Lori Weaver Joy Ramey (Support) Daniel Smith (Administration) Sara Ann Cox (Support) Kay Smallwood (Administration) Rebecca McDuffie (Patron) Frances Douglas (BCEA President Elect) Regina Glasscox (Patron) Rodney Green (Assistant Superintendent)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Cleveland Beth Phillips Aimee Ellis Jada Whittington Stephen Johnson

Hayden J. B. Pennington Emily Heron Kasey Owen Joshua Standridge Tiffany Nelson

Locust Fork Susan Moore Mavon Copeland Brittany Purpura Jessica Martin Tyler Gilliland

2007 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Dusty Dean Lori Bush Ann Lewis Terri Nelson Linda Williams Kimberly Harbison Sandra Washington Jeremy Champion Jeff McHan Olen Goble Frankey Blackwood Barbie Self Beverly Reeves Chris Pullen Brenda Tidwell Bernard Sanderson (ESPO President) Mark Carter (Administration) Mike Hazelrig (Support) Allen Hargett (Administration) Angie Whittington (Support) Frances Douglas (BCEA President Elect) Joan Butts (Patron) Rodney Green, Assistant Superintendent Sharonda Holmes (Patron)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Cleveland Kristin Gargus Cate Ann Davis Trey Helton Taylor Branham

Hayden J. B. Pennington Owen Hargett Emily Howard Haley Daniel Luke Graves

Locust Fork Susan Moore Cassise McCay Josh Latham Cody King Kendell Hawkins

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2009 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Diane Franks Frankey Blackwood Michelle Brand Olen Goble Ann Lewis John Smallwood John Wood Brenda Tidwell Kristy Posey Angela Beasley (ESPO President) Linda Williams Frances Douglas (BCEA President Elect) Jana Warren Tamara Thompson (Support) Julia Wall Kay Maze (Support) Amy Williamson Debbie Hancock (Patron) Bridgette Murphree Dee Chappelle (Patron) Rebecca Lary Mike Peoples (Administrator) Keith Miller Craig Sosebee (Administrator)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Cleveland Lauren Hitt Gracyn Gammon Jonathan Metzler Micah Smith

Hayden J. B. Pennington Nikki Brakefield Paige Posey Kevin Franks T. J. Williams

Locust Fork Susan Moore Hannah Kirkley Shae Sisson Kyle Smith Brad Collins

2011 TEACHER PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Dusty Dean Vikki Brown John Wood Kristy Posey Linda Williams Julia Wall Kristen Boshell Lynda Wilder Brad Stockman Angie Calvert Frankey Blackwood Jessica Musso Jana Warren Reba Long Becky McCay Brenda Tidwell Cheryl Willenbrock(Support) Pam Lauderdale(Support) Carrie Roach (Patron) Michelle Shelton (Patron) Linda Parker (Administration) Mark Hitt (Administration) Steve Love (BCEA President Elect) Bernard Sanderson (ESPO President)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Cleveland Christopher Swann Jordan Thigpen Krista Metzler David Horton

Hayden J. B. Pennington Jared Hargett Whitney Brown Rebecca Long Andrew Vaughn

Locust Fork Susan Moore Colby Henry Matthew Jones Tori Swindle Kasey Hawkins Southeastern Marissa Minyard Matthew Taylor

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2013 TEACHER/PERSONNEL COMMITTEE Dusty Dean Paige Moore Jordan Hock Candace Wood Linda Williams Julia Wall Monica Moorer Rebecca Lary Keith Miller Belinda McCay Frankey Blackwood Connie Millwood Cassie Washburn Shari Sloan Adam NeSmith Christy Stephens Sherry Holmes (Support) Pattie Thomas (Support) Pam Pinyan (Patron) Rhonda Tinney (Patron) Bridgette Murphree (Administration) Denise Martin (Administration) Nancy Dowdy (BCEA) Bernard Sanderson (ESP President)

STUDENT COMMITTEE Appalachian Cleveland Holly Hawkins Trent Tatum Chris Cornelius Kaley Doster

Hayden J. B. Pennington Stevie Seaver Brandon Butts Patrick Hargett Falon Littleton

Locust Fork Susan Moore Kyle Hornbuckle Sam Parnell Brittany Files Emilee Sanders Southeastern Alex Thompson Ashland McAlpine

2015 TEACHER/PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

Joseph Neal Whited Paige Amanda Moore Jordan Nicole Hock Candace Michelle Wood Amanda Posey McHan Janie Lanette Novara Monica B. Moorer Karen Renee’ Brannon Dailey Casondra Roxanne Edwards Angela Michelle Calvert Grindl Cook Weldon William Jarrod Smitherman Maria Stokes Murray Sonja Carol Shivers Adam Wayne NeSmith Deanna Jewell Jones Susan A. Hornbuckle (Support) Kelli Ann Allison (Support) Tracy Nicole Tidwell (Patron) Sheena A. Adams (Patron) Amy B. Williamson (Administration) David Allen Hargett (Administration) Nancy Roberson Dowdy (BCEA) Raymond Bernard Sanderson (ESP President)

STUDENT COMMITTEE

Appalachian Cleveland Stephanie Joy Metzler Peyton Thomas Hazelrig Forrest Lamar Johnson Caroline Elizabeth Weems

Hayden J. B. Pennington Jacob Michael Sparks Lauren Anne McHan Anna Catherine Armstrong Jacob Allen Washburn

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Locust Fork Susan Moore Kelsey Adele Hornbuckle Lecil Alan Brothers Dakota Pond Karluk Julia Nichole Smith

Southeastern Amber Elizabeth Doherty Ryan Trammell Davis

2017 TEACHER/PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

Curtis Atkinson Haley Beasley Susan Hackett Brett Thrasher Rebecca Maniscalco Cheri Niblett Sarah Miller Sandy Washington Andy McKinney Angie Calvert Grindl Weldon Justin Miller Bryon Chapman Sonja Shivers Adam NeSmith Deanna Jones Anita Harvey (Support) Tara Matthews (Support) Kevin Roddam (Patron) Jessica Hutchens (Patron) Kim Harbison (Administration) Brian Kirk (Administration) Nancy Dowdy (BCEA) Bernard Sanderson (ESP President) Lisa Faust (AEA) Brandon Maniscalco (AFT)

2017 STUDENT COMMITTEE

Appalachian Cleveland Tyler Cardwell Caroline Caffee Rebecca McAnnally Gabriel Weems

Hayden J. B. Pennington Jacob Barnett Kala Clemons Micayla Rickels Gibson Gray

Locust Fork Southeastern Hallie Fletcher Giselle Bernal Brody McCay Trent Helvin

Susan Moore Seth Ingram Sarah Turquitt

2019 TEACHER/PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

Curtis Atkinson Angie Calvert Tommie Jinright Melanie Ganus Chris Puckett Meagan Holt Paige Givens Michelle Frye Michelle Shelton Trisha Bodine Conny Lowery Chuck Longshore Keith Moore Andy McKinney Alan Timmerman Ruth Martin (Patron) Tammy McMinn (Administration) Allen Hargett (Administration)

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2019 STUDENT COMMITTEE

Appalachian Cleveland Gabe Smith Stephen Dean Josie Green Bethany Reed

Hayden J. B. Pennington Collin Chappell Alex Washburn Bailee Johnson Millie Grace Drake

Locust Fork Southeastern Chase Reaves Brody Dobbins Hallie Fletcher Mia Wilson

Susan Moore Grace Battles Cesar Calderon

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