Student Handbook

2025-2026

Dr. Laicee Hatfield, Principal

2710 Byington Solway Rd

Knoxville, TN 37931

(865) 539-8670

Website: https://www.knoxschools.org/karnshs

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

School Personnel

Administration

Support Staff

School Counseling

About Karns High School

KHS Mission and Guiding Principles

Daily Schedule

Early Release Day Schedule

Delay Schedules

Graduation Requirements

Schedule Changes

Grading Policies and Updated Scale

Homework Policy

Makeup Work Policy

School and Classroom Fees

End of Course Exams

Senior Exam Privilege

Attendance Policies and Procedures

School Hours

Hall Passes

Tardy Policies and Late Arrival

Early Dismissal

Student Driver and Parking Information

Applying for a Driver’s Permit

Self Driver Early Dismissal Policy

Bus Information and Expectations

Dress Code

Library Guidelines

Visitor Policy

Lockers, School, and Personal Property

Cafeteria Food and Drink Policy

Guidelines for Student Messages, Packages, Flowers, Balloons, Etc.

Restricted Areas

Wireless Communication Device Policy

Guidelines for Medication

Student Discipline

Discipline Policy

Student Searches

Tobacco and Vaping Policy

Fighting

Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying, or Cyberbullying

Zero Tolerance Policy

Unsafe School Choice Guidelines

Civility Code

KCS Statement of Compliance

Child Abuse and Neglect

Equal Opportunity Notice

Extracurricular Information

Prom Guidelines

Field Trips

Extracurricular Activities

School Personnel

Administration

Support Staff

School Counseling

About Karns High School

KHS Mission and Guiding Principles

Mission:        

Karns High School fosters responsible, respectful, and receptive citizens who contribute to their community.

Vision:        

Karns High School will invest in each student by providing engaging and challenging experiences that develop graduates who are college prepared or career ready.

Guiding Principles:

We believe

• An effective school thrives in a partnership between staff, students, families, and the community.
• An effective school provides a safe and welcoming environment.
• An effective school equips students with diverse educational opportunities that address varying levels of achievement and ranges of ability.
• An effective school models respectful and thoughtful communication.
• An effective school enables students to develop essential leadership and self-advocacy skills.
• An effective school supports extracurricular programs that allow students to pursue and develop their skills and talents.

Daily Schedule

Delay Schedules

On all delay schedule days, FRAC will split the difference between first and second blocks. All 7:30 am classes are canceled on the delay schedule.

Graduation Requirements

A diploma shall be awarded to students who have earned the prescribed 28 credits and have a satisfactory record of attendance and discipline.

• In addition to the requirements above, students must also take the ACT and Civics exam as required by the state.

• The additional 1⁄2 credit in Physical Ed. may be met by completing a Physical Education course (in addition to Wellness) or by substituting a documented and equivalent time (minimum 65 hours) of physical activity in school sponsored activities such as marching band, JROTC, cheerleading, dance, interscholastic athletics and other areas pre-approved by the board of education.

• ** The elective focus may be CTE (3 courses in the same CTE program area), science and math, humanities, fine arts,AP/IB, or other areas approved by the board of education.

• *** Students not planning to attend a university may waive the units of world language and fine/performing arts to expand their elective focus. (Parents and students are required to meet with the counseling office at the school to document their request for a waiver. These students are required to have 2 elective focuses.

Note: Additional information on graduation requirements and types of diplomas can be found in the school counseling office.

Schedule Changes

During the spring semester, students complete a schedule request form choosing options that will best suit their academic needs. Students list alternate course selections in the event their “first” choice is unavailable. A master class schedule is developed using this information making every effort possible to accommodate all requests. Students receive a draft class schedule during the summer to review and are given several weeks to request a schedule change if necessary.

Our school counselors make every effort to accommodate these requests; however, limits in class sizes and course availability influence what solution is offered.

Once the semester has begun, schedule changes will be considered only for:

• Level of difficulty (College Prep, Honors or AP)
• Repeating a course with a final of D or F
• Graduation requirements

Grading Policies and Scale        

A   90 - 100                

B   80 - 89                

C   70 - 79                

D   60 - 69                

F   Below 60                

• Weighting for Advanced Placement includes the addition of 5 percentage points to a student’s semester average if the student takes the AP Exam that is connected to that course.
• Weighting for Honors Courses includes the addition of 3 percentage points to grades used to calculate the semester average.
• Assigning additional quality points above 4.0 for honors courses and AP courses is not allowed to determine eligibility for the lottery scholarships.
• Grades will be published on Aspen within 5 days of KCS grading period dates.

Note: Students are responsible for ordering AP College Board tests through the school Counseling Office. Payment must accompany the order(s). AP exams are administered in May.

Homework Policy

Homework is assigned to reinforce and strengthen students’ academic abilities. It is designed as a focused learning experience to meet a learning goal. Therefore, homework must be completed on time to be of instructional benefit. Homework turned in complete, according to expectations, and on time will be eligible for full credit. Late homework will receive credit at the teacher’s discretion. Homework is not required in every class.

Makeup Work Policy

Students who miss classwork and/or homework due to an excused absence, the following rules apply:

1. You have 3 days, including the day you return to school, to request make-up work.

2. If you fail to request makeup work within three days of return, you may lose credit for missed work.

3. Work must be turned in within ten days of receiving the assignment (or as directed by the teacher)

4. Makeup work should be completed before or after a regular school day, not during class time.

If a student is absent for at least three days, a parent/guardian may call the counseling secretary to request makeup work. The counseling office and teachers must have 24 hours to gather necessary assignments.

School and Classroom Fees

The Knox County Board of Education approves all student fees. There is a general school fee (paid in the fall semester only) and classroom fees associated with various course offerings. If payment of a fee produces a family financial hardship, parents/guardians should contact the bookkeeper for assistance with the fee waiver process. Extra credit, grades, or other incentives cannot be given for paying fees. All school fees need to be paid online using School Cash Online. Please contact the bookkeeper or main office for more information about this process. For more information see Knox County Policy: Student Fees / Fines (J-560)

End of Course Exams

Examination dates for the entire school year are published well in advance so that families may plan accordingly to avoid conflicts on examination testing dates. Please see the testing calendar which will be linked here when released by the county.. Per KCS Policy, our staff will not allow students to take EOC or Final exams earlier than scheduled.

State-mandated EOC examinations will be given in English I, English II, Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, US History and Biology. The results of these tests will be calculated as 15% of the final grade.

KCS final exam results will also be calculated as 15% of the final grade. Students will not be required to pass any one examination, but instead must achieve a passing score for the final cumulative grade.

Senior Exam Privilege

Seniors who have a minimum of a “80” average may opt out of a school-level final exam. (This exam cannot be a state, IB, or AP exam). The definition/determination of “major test” is left to the discretion of the teacher. This applies to both semesters.

Attendance Policies and Procedures

The Knox County School Board recognizes that good attendance at school is basic to student learning. Attendance is a key factor in student achievement; therefore, students are expected to be present each day that school is in session. Parents have both a legal obligation and a moral responsibility to see that children are present every day that school is in session.

Excuses for absences must be made in writing to the principal or administrative designee by a parent or guardian and should be submitted within five (5) days of the student's return to school.

In order to be counted present on any and all accounting attendance records, students in grades K-12 shall attend school for a time period of three (3) hours and thirty (30) minutes per school day. Students who attend less than three (3) hours and thirty (30) minutes per school day shall be recorded and reported as absent on any and all attendance records.

Acceptable (excusable) absences:

1. Personal illness, injury and hospitalization. 2. Illness in the family temporarily requires help from the child. 3. Death in the immediate family. 4. Recognized religious holidays regularly observed by persons of the student's faith. 5. Verifiable family emergency. 6. Court appearances for summons, subpoena or court order. 7. For students with a parent or guardian who is deployed as member of the United States Armed Forces the following excusable absences shall apply provided appropriate documentation of the service member’s deployment is furnished: (1) An excused absence for one (1) day when the member is deployed; (2) An excused absence for one (1) day when the service member returns from deployment; and (3) Excused absences for up to ten (10) days for visitation when the member is granted rest and recuperation leave and is stationed out of the country. 8. Students who are pregnant are excused from school for hospitalization and doctor’s appointments when a physician’s statement is provided. If a student is participating in a homebound program due to pregnancy, the homebound teacher will maintain attendance documentation. 9. Juniors and seniors are allowed two (2) days per year for college visits. These will be counted as excused absences. Visits must be arranged through the school counseling office. 10. Students participating in school-sponsored activities whether on or off-campus shall not be counted absent. In order to qualify as “school sponsored,” the activity must be school-planned, school-directed, and teacher-supervised. 11. Extenuating circumstances determined on a case-by-case basis. Missing school to obtain a driver’s permit or license will not be an excused absence.

Parents or guardians shall be notified each time a student has five (5) days (aggregate) of unexcused absences and that attendance at school is required. Additional notices shall be sent after each successive accumulation of five (5) unexcused absences. Upon or before five (5) days of unexcused absences, the principal or designee shall notify the director of schools or designee and initiate meaningful communications with the student and their parent/guardian. The school shall attempt to determine the underlying cause(s) of the unexcused absences. When appropriate, a plan to improve school attendance should be initiated for the student. For more information, see Knox County Policy: Attendance (J-120)

School Hours

Karns High School is open each day from 7:45 AM - 4:00 PM. Students are expected to be in their first period class at 8:30 (other than late start Thursdays). Any arrival after 8:30, 8:40 on Thursdays, will result in a tardy. During last start Thursdays, students have the option to be in class by 8:40 (with no penalty) or take advantage of tutoring in the library from 8:00-8:30.

Hall Passes

All students who are leaving a classroom for any reason during instructional time will be required to have a hall pass through our electronic hall pass system E-Hallpass. All students have accounts with E-Hallpass and have access to create passes. Teachers must approve a pass before students can exit the classroom. Students are not allowed to request passes for the first 20 minutes or the last 20 minutes of instructional time. Students who do not have a pass will be subject to disciplinary action.  

Tardy Policies and Late Arrival

A” class tardy” is defined as being less than 15 minutes late to 1st block OR less than 10 minutes late to 2nd, 3rd, or 4th block. If a student is not physically inside their assigned classroom when the tardy bell rings, they are tardy. A two-minute warning bell is provided prior to each tardy bell which signifies the beginning of the next class period.

If you are tardy to 1st block, follow the procedures listed below.

1. From 8:30-8:45, students will report to class as tardy. Teachers will follow the “class tardy” discipline policy below.

2. After 8:45, students must report to the Front Office to sign in tardy to school.

Tardy Interventions and Supports - TIS

Early Dismissal

Leaving a school day early means loss of valuable academic time. When possible, we encourage students, and their parents/guardians, to schedule appointments after school hours to maximize learning opportunities. If early dismissal is unavoidable, the following rules apply:

1. The student must deliver a written request to the front office before 8:30 am. No Exceptions!

2. The request must contain the following information:

a. The student’s full name

b. Student ID# and grade level

c. Reason for early dismissal

d. Requested time of departure

e. Phone number of parent/guardian to verify request

f. Signature of Parent/Guardian

3. Only written requests will be honored. Email, Fax, or Phone requests will not be accepted.

 4. ALL REQUESTS WILL BE VERIFIED.

5. Only the parent/guardian, or an individual designated by the parent/guardian in writing and on file with the office, will be allowed to check out a student. Check-out requires a valid photo ID.

6. Lunch is not a valid reason for early dismissal.

7. Students leaving class/campus without administration approval are subject to disciplinary action.

8. Parents entering the building to check students out must report directly to the main office.

Student Driver and Parking Information

Student parking is a privilege. To park on campus, students must purchase a parking permit from the Front Office. All library fines must be cleared for a student to be eligible for a parking permit. Parking permits are assigned for designated parking spaces. Students must park in their assigned space with the permit clearly displayed. Cars parked in incorrect spots or without a parking pass displayed are subject to booting or towing for repeated offenses. Parking permits are non-transferable and must be returned to the Front Office upon request. Students who graduate early, transfer, or move will not receive a prorated refund on their parking fee. No refunds are issued for revoked parking permits.

Parking permits may be revoked or suspended without refund (limited or permanently) for:

1. Not being on track to graduate

2. Having more than 4 days of OSS

3. Having more than 10 days of Unexcused Absences for the year

4. Having more than 5 unexcused tardies to school per semester

5. Allowing someone else to use your permit

6. Allowing an individual to ride anywhere on the outside of a vehicle, e.g. truck bed/roof

7. Loitering in vehicles or parking lots. Once you arrive, you must exit your vehicle and enter school.

8. Failure to display parking permit

9. Speeding or reckless driving

10. Parking in more than one space. Only one space is allowed per car.

11. Revocation of driver’s license for attendance/grades

12. Lack of courtesy or safety violations.

13. Leaving campus without approved permission

**(This is not a comprehensive list and administrators may use discretion)

Students must exit their cars once parked and enter directly into the building. The school has the right to inspect any vehicle on campus at any time. Cars and parking lots are off limits during the school day without a security or administrative escort. Leaving campus without permission will result in suspension and possibly revocation of parking privileges. Passengers are subject to the same rules as the drivers.

For more information, see Knox County Policy: Student Vehicles (J-510)

Applying for a Driver’s Permit

Students under the age of 18 must first obtain a Compulsory School Attendance Form from the Front Office. The top portion must be completed by the student and parent and then returned to the Front Office for attendance/grade verification and signature by a school official.

Note: At least two school days should be allowed for completion of this form by the school.

It is the student’s responsibility to return to the Front Office to pick up the approved form. This form is valid only for 30 days once it is signed by a school official, except during summer months.

Students with summer birthdays need to plan and receive their approved Compulsory School Attendance Form in May before school is dismissed for the summer. Tennessee State law contains requirements for compulsory school attendance and sets the requirements for driving privileges for children under the age of 18. This law states that a student will be denied a license or lose an issued license for failing to achieve specific attendance.

**There is no documentation required from the school to advance from a driving permit to a driving license**

Self Driver Early Dismissal Policy

Students are not permitted to sign themselves out regardless of age unless legally considered an emancipated minor. If a student is unwell and the nurse believes that they are okay to drive, the nurse can permit speaking with a parent for a student to drive home. This requires administrator approval.

Student drivers are still required to submit requests to leave before 8:30 am in writing and are required to follow the Early Dismissal Policy outlined above. You may not leave campus without permission at any time. Leaving campus without prior permission will result in suspension according to the discipline policy.

Bus Information and Expectations

Bus transportation is provided for Knox County students who live outside the Parental Responsibility Zones (PRZ) for each school. A map of these zones, as well as a listing of bus stops and pick-up times, is available in the School Counseling Office or the Knox County Transportation Office. Discipline on our school buses is a priority to ensure the safety of all children. Bus transportation provided by the Knox County School System is considered to be an extension of the school day. Therefore, just as appropriate behavior is expected in the classroom, it is expected on the bus. Knox County bus rules are posted on each bus; failure to cooperate with the driver may result in removal of student riding privileges and/or suspension from the bus.

Dress Code

The following expectations for student dress have been established to promote a safe and optimal learning environment. Apparel or appearance that tends to draw attention to an individual rather than to a learning situation must be avoided. In matters of opinion, the judgment of the principal/designee shall prevail.

The following standards will be observed in all Knox County Middle and High Schools:

1. Pants must be worn at the waist. No sagging allowed.

2. Shirts, blouses, and dresses must completely cover the abdomen, back, shoulders and must have sleeves. Shirts or tops must cover the waistband of pants, shorts, or skirts with no midriff visible. Low-cut blouses, shirts, or tops, or extremely tight tops, tube tops, or any top that exposes cleavage are prohibited.

3. Head apparel (i.e., headbands, hats, toboggans, scarves) except for religious or medical purposes, must not be worn inside the school building.

4. Footwear is required and must be safe and appropriate for indoor and outdoor activity.

5. Clothing and accessories such as backpacks, patches, jewelry, and notebooks must not display (1) racial or ethnic slurs/symbols, (2) gang affiliations, (3) disruptive, vulgar, or sexually suggestive language or images; nor, should they promote products which students may not legally buy; such as firearms, alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs.

6. Skirts, dresses, and shorts must be beyond mid-thigh length.

7. Sleepwear, pajamas, and/or blankets cannot be worn in school.

8. Prohibited items include (1) large, long and/or heavy chains, (2) studded or chained accessories, (3) sunglasses, except for health purposes, (4) sleepwear, and (5) skin-tight outer materials without appropriate coverage.

The school administration reserves the right to determine whether the student's attire is within the limits of decency and modesty. Administration will strive for consistency so the dress code is applied evenhandedly to male and female students. The principal may allow exceptions in special circumstances or occasions, such as holidays or special performances, and may further prescribe dress in certain classes, such as physical education, vocational classes, and science labs.

Any student not attired under this policy shall be subject to correction of the violation. If a correction cannot be made, the student shall be subject to additional disciplinary measures as described in Policy J-191 “Misbehaviors and Disciplinary Options.”

For more information see Knox County Policy: Dress Code (J-260)

Library Guidelines

The library is open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Late fees are assessed for overdue library materials. Students are not allowed in the library during scheduled lunch periods without a library pass. Students must have a “Use of Electronic Media” form on file to access the internet on library computers. Any use of library computers for anything other than academic purposes is prohibited. Violators will face disciplinary action and have their computer privileges suspended.

Visitor Policy

Karns High School is a "closed" campus. For the safety of all individuals in the building, students are not to open outside doors to allow entry into the building by anyone. This includes fellow students as well as unknown individuals. All visitors shall report directly to the school office to obtain a visitor’s badge. Only approved organizations will be allowed to visit during lunch hours. Students are not allowed to have outside food deliveries. Former students are not permitted on campus during the regular school day to participate in activities that require intermingling with the student population, such as socializing, eating lunch, walking students to class, or visiting former teachers. All visitors who fail to report to the front office or display their visitor’s badge shall be reported to law enforcement. For more information, see Knox County Policy: Visitors (C-210)

Lockers, School, and Personal Property

Any person, vehicle, or personal property is subject to search at any time by Knox County School  personnel when requested.

Lockers, School and Personal Property Lockers are provided by the school for proper storage of school and personal items. Each student:

1. Is offered throughout the year.

2. Must have a lock in hand to receive an assignment of a locker.

3. Must use a lock to protect personal possessions and school property in the locker.

4. Understands that KHS is not responsible for lost or stolen items, including locker rooms.

5. Is aware that the school has the right to inspect any locker (or belongings) at any time.

6. Understands that theft or vandalism will be subject to disciplinary action in addition to having grades, diploma, and/or transcript withheld.

For more information, see Knox County Policy: Care of School Property (J-270)

Students should not bring personal belongings to school due to the risk of loss or theft. Knox County Schools are not responsible for items that are lost or stolen.

At Karns High School, any student who is found to be out of area will be subject to search by school administration and or school security officers.

Cafeteria Food and Drink Policy

Students may eat breakfast and lunch in the cafeteria.

1. Visitors are not permitted in the cafeteria during lunch periods without administrative approval.

2. All school behavior guidelines should be followed during lunch. Students should not sit on tables. Students should remain seated, no yelling, and no re-entry into the serving line.

3. Students must remain in the cafeteria during lunch periods. Students should not be in instructional or unsupervised areas. This includes the lobby and side hallways near the Commons areas.

4. No food and drink (except water) is permitted in classrooms or other instructional areas without permission.

5. Eating areas are to be left clean and trash-free and trays properly returned to designated areas. Failure to comply will result in disciplinary action.

6. Karns High School is not responsible for vending machines or contents and cannot refund lost monies.

Guidelines for Student Messages, Packages, Flowers, Balloons, Etc.

To avoid excessive announcements, interruptions, and the overloading of office personnel, only emergency messages or packages (such as forgotten lunches, lunch money, etc.) from parents or guardians will be accepted for distribution to students during school hours. No outside food deliveries are allowed for any reason.  Students are not to order food to be delivered to the school. Special deliveries such as flowers, balloons and candy will be held in the office until the end of the school day so as not to disrupt the learning environment.

Restricted Areas

All exterior doors are to remain shut and locked during the school day. Exterior doors should not be propped open for any reason.

For safety reasons, students are not permitted in the following areas during the school day:

1. Parking lots or vehicles during school hours without administrative permission

2. Rooms or areas designated “Staff Only”

3. Instructional areas during lunch periods

4. Any unsupervised area during classes w/o permission.

5. In the building before school or after 3:45pm without staff supervision

6. Outside the building during school hours without adult supervision

7. In the Gym and perimeter hallways around the gym without adult supervision

8. On the stairways, in locker bays, or loitering in restrooms during lunch and instructional time

9. Classrooms or library without permission and adult supervision.

Students in off limits areas are subject to search and will receive disciplinary consequences.

Students arriving before 8:15 am will stay in the commons. The area in front of the main office must be kept clear. Students are not allowed to go to their lockers or any classroom before 8:15 am. However, students arriving early for tutoring, club meetings, etc., may proceed to a classroom by presenting a signed note from their supervising teacher to the faculty hall monitor.

Cell Phone Policy

A "personal communication device" (WCD) such as a cell phone, airpods, or smart watch is a device that emits an audible signal, vibrates, displays a message or otherwise summons or delivers a communication to the possessor. A personal electronic device is a device that can be used as a camera, a recorder, a player, or any such item that electronically transmits or receives a signal, image, sound file, data file or message. PCDs and personal electronic devices including but not limited to CD players, iPods, MP3 players, netbooks, laptop or notebook computers or iPads may be stored in backpacks, purses, or personal carryalls. However, the use of the devices during class-time is forbidden unless approved for an academic activity by the principal or the principal’s designee. This is not intended to discourage the use of these devices for instructional purposes, but to establish parameters and appropriate oversight for their use. Improper use or storage of PCDs and electronic devices may result in confiscation of the device until it

can be released directly to a student’s parents and/or guardians. A student in violation of this policy is subject to related disciplinary action.

Use by Students: Improper use of cell phone, Internet, or other electronic devices – Using personal technology, electronic devices, or the internet, except when used for educational purposes with the permission of the classroom teacher or school administrator, or in violation of school rules.

VIOLATION OF WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICES

A WCD used outside these parameters may result in confiscation of the WCD until it can be released directly to the student's parent or guardian.  A student who possesses a WCD, in violation of this policy, is subject to related disciplinary action. Continued violation of this policy may result in loss of WCD privileges. Additionally, students may lose WCD privileges for any policy violation that is related to or is the result of the use of a WCD, whether or not the WCD was used within the parameters of this policy.

INAPPROPRIATE USE OF WCD AND/OR ELECTRONIC DEVICES 

In addition to the parameters established above, use of a WCD or other electronic device to bully, harass, or intimidate others will be subject to related disciplinary action. Using a WCD or other electronic device for any illicit activity, including but not limited to taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing obscene, pornographic, lewd, or otherwise illegal images, photographs, or similar material, whether by electronic data transfer or otherwise, may constitute a crime under State and/or Federal law. Any student taking, disseminating, transferring, possessing or sharing obscene, pornographic, lewd, illegal, or otherwise inappropriate images or photographs of other students or any other individual, particularly underage, at school, on a school bus or while attending any school event or activity will be subject to the disciplinary procedures of the school district and reported to law enforcement and other appropriate State or Federal agencies.

Students are prohibited from taking/sharing unauthorized photographs or making unauthorized recordings of other students at school, on school transportation, or at school-sponsored events.

Social Media events/incidents that occur outside of school hours and events should be reported to the Knox County Sheriff's non-emergency department.

WARNING: The taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing of obscene, pornographic, lewd, or otherwise illegal images or photographs, whether by electronic data transfer or otherwise (commonly called texting, sexting, emailing, etc.) may constitute a CRIME under state and or/federal law.

Any person taking, disseminating, transferring, or sharing obscene, pornographic, lewd, or otherwise illegal images or photographs will be reported to law enforcement and/or other appropriate state or federal agencies, which may result in arrest, criminal prosecution, and LIFETIME inclusion on sexual offender registries.

For more information, see Knox County School Policy: Use of Personal Communication Devices in School (J-240)

Guidelines for Medication

Students who are required to take medication(s) during school hours must comply with the regulations established by the Tennessee Department of Health and Education. Over-the-counter medications are included in these regulations. The regulations are as follows:

1. Knox County Schools has the final decision-making authority concerning the administration of and/or rejection of requests for administering medications.

2. Written orders must be provided by a licensed healthcare provider. The order must include the name of the drug, dosage, frequency, route and time administered, potential side effects, and method of storage.

3. Each medication requires a separate Medication Administration Form, signed by the prescribing health care provider and parent/guardian. The Medication Administration Form must be renewed yearly. Medication(s) changes during the school year require a new Medication Administration Form.

 4. Medication(s) must be brought to the school by an adult. Students may not carry medications of any kind on their person except asthma inhalers, Epi-Pens (anaphylaxis medications), pancreatic enzymes or insulin delivery systems with written permission from a parent and authorization by a medical health care provider. Failure to properly register medication shall lead to a presumption that any such medication is not lawfully in the possession of the student.

5. Medications must be in appropriate containers, properly labeled by a licensed medical care provider or pharmacy. Over-the-counter (OTC) medication(s) prescribed for a student must be provided in its original, unopened, labeled, unexpired container and identified student's written name.

6. Upon receiving the quantity of medication must be confirmed and documented. A secure location must be provided for the storage of medications.

7. All medications self-administered must be documented on the Medication Administration Record. Medication records will be kept in the student's cumulative record when completed.

8. School Nurses will monitor the administration, documentation, and storage of all medications regularly. Only school nurses, trained school personnel, or a picture-identified parent/guardian can administer medication(s) during school hours. A school nurse must train school personnel on medication administration yearly.

9. The parent/guardian is responsible for picking up any unused medication at the end of the treatment or at the end of the school year. Any medications not picked up shall be destroyed as per Knox County policy.

For more information see Knox County Policy: Medication Administration (J-352)

Student Discipline

Discipline Policy

All Knox County Schools operate under a uniform Misbehaviors and Disciplinary Options policy. Karns High School will enforce all policies set forth by KCS in Board Policy J-191. Students and parents are responsible for being familiar with all KCS discipline policies.

Please see KCS Policy J-191 Linked Here.

Student Searches

Any person, vehicle, or personal property are subject to search at any time by Knox County School  personnel when requested. At Karns High School, any student who is found to be out of area will be subject to search by school administration and or school security officers. Please see KCS Policy J-200

Tobacco and Vaping Policy

Vaping has become increasingly prevalent within Knox County Schools, and we are taking steps to address this rapidly growing problem among our middle and high school students.

We will be actively engaging our students to help them understand the potential health consequences of vaping and implementing new disciplinary guidelines that we hope will reduce the use of e-cigarettes.

An outline of the new vaping protocols that will go into effect January 13, 2020 for all middle and high schools is below:

Vaping without THC

Student’s first offense:

• May be cited at the discretion of law enforcement and result in a $117 court cost
• Offenders may receive up to 4 days of out-of-school suspension
• Upon returning to school, spends one day in the restorative learning center for intervention services, including:

• Completing four (50 minutes) INDEPTH videos (Intervention for Nicotine Dependence: Education Prevention Tobacco and Health), and
• Making a presentation to the parent/guardian and staff member.

Student’s second offense:

• May be cited at the discretion of law enforcement and result in a $164 court cost
• May receive 5-10  days of out-of-school suspension

Student’s third offense:

• May be cited at the discretion of law enforcement and result in a $164 court cost
• The school conducts a disciplinary hearing that could result in an eleven to forty-five day out-of-school suspension.

Vaping with THC

Any vaping that contains THC will result in a zero-tolerance offense (180-day out-of-school suspension and an alternative placement will be offered).  

These protocols were developed with the assistance of our community partners, as well as KCS administrators, teachers and security personnel. We want to thank the Knox County Health Department, Knox County Sheriff’s Department, Knoxville Police Department, Tennessee Department of Health, Knoxville DEA 360 and the National Drug Enforcement Agency for their collaboration on this important matter.

Fighting

Fighting is not allowed on any Knox County School property. Fighting will result in a disciplinary hearing. All fights are cumulative across a student’s high school career.

        First Fight - 10 Days OSS

        Second Fight- 20 Days OSS

        Third Fight- 45 Days OSS

Punishments for consecutive fights will increase each fight beyond three fights. Students will be required to complete a transition plan on reentry from suspension.

Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying, or Cyberbullying

Knox County Schools prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation, bullying and cyber-bullying.1, 2 A safe and courteous environment in school is necessary for students to learn and achieve. Harassment, intimidation or bullying, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a student’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate students in a safe and orderly environment; and since students learn by example, administrators, faculty, staff and volunteers should be positive role models in demonstrating appropriate behavior, treating others with civility and respect, and refusing to tolerate harassment, intimidation or bullying. All Knox County Schools teachers and administrative personnel are responsible for ensuring this policy is faithfully implemented in all areas under their purview or direct supervision.

“Cyber-bullying” means bullying undertaken through the use of electronic devices; “Electronic devices” include, but are not limited to, telephones, cellular phones or other wireless telecommunication devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), computers, electronic mail, instant messaging, text messaging, and web sites;

“Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any act that substantially interferes with a student’s educational benefits, opportunities or performance; and:

(A) If the act takes place on school grounds, at any school-sponsored activity, on school-provided

equipment or transportation or at any official school bus stop, the act has the effect of:

(i) Physically harming a student or damaging a student’s property:

(ii) Knowingly placing a student or students in reasonable fear of physical harm to the student or damage to the student’s property;

(iii) Causing emotional distress to a student or students; or

(iv) Creating a hostile educational environment; or

(B) If the act takes place off school property or outside of a school-sponsored activity, it is directed specifically at a student or students and has the effect of creating a hostile educational environment or otherwise creating a substantial disruption to the education environment or learning process.

All students are expected to refrain from acts of harassment, intimidation and bullying or cyber-bullying in any form and to be aware that such disciplinary measures as are appropriately assigned in Board policy (J-211).

Zero Tolerance Policy

In order to ensure a safe and secure learning environment free of drugs, violence and dangerous weapons, any student who engages in the following behaviors shall be removed from the base school for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. And shall be offered an alternative placement to complete school work. The Director of Schools has the authority to modify this suspension requirement on a case-by-case basis.

Zero tolerance acts are as follows:

Any student who while at a school bus stop, on a school bus, on school property or while attending any school event or activity:

• unlawfully possesses a legend drug or any other controlled substance;
• knowingly possesses a firearm as defined in 18 U.S.C. § 921;
• commits aggravated assault on a teacher, a School Resource Officer (SRO), an officer of the law assigned to patrol a Knox County School property or other employee of the school system;
• possession of explosive or incendiary devices.
• Threatens mass violence on school property or at a school-related activity (Reckless -willful or wanton - conduct)  TCA 39-16-517

For more information, see Knox County Policy: Zero Tolerance Expulsions (J-194)

Parents and students must understand that school administrators are bound by federal, state, and local regulations governing disciplinary matters. Parents and students need to understand that it is a breach of confidentiality for us to discuss a student’s discipline with anyone other than his/her legal guardians or pertinent school officials.

Unsafe School Choice Guidelines

Beginning in the 2003-04 school year, every local education agency (LEA) shall implement the Unsafe School Choice Policy approved by the State Board of Education as mandated under Section 9532 of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. The LEA shall provide any student who attends a persistently dangerous school, or any student who has been the victim of a violent crime while at school, the opportunity to attend a safe school. Additional information regarding this option may be obtained by contacting Brian Hartsell at 594-1502.                 For more information, see Tennessee Board of Education Policy: Unsafe School Choice Policy (J-290)

Civility Code

It is the intent of the Board to promote mutual respect, civility and orderly conduct among district employees, parents and the general public. This policy provides rules of conduct that both permit and encourage participation in school activities and communication between parents, community members and school district personnel. This policy also identifies those behaviors that are considered inappropriate and disruptive to the operation of a school or other school district facility. It is not the intent of the Board to deprive any person of his or her right to freedom of expression.

EXPECTATIONS 

Students, faculty, staff, parents, guardians and all other members of the community shall:

1. Treat one another with courtesy and respect at all times.

2. Take responsibility for one’s actions.

3. Be cooperative, to the greatest extent possible, toward one another and in solving problems based on what is in the best interest of students.

4. Refrain from behavior that threatens or attempts to disrupt school or school district operations; physically harms someone; intentionally causes damage; employs loud or offensive language, gestures, or profanity; or inappropriately shows a display of temper.

RESPONSE TO UNCIVIL BEHAVIOR 

The Board does not condone a lack of civility by anyone, and recognizes the following appropriate administrative avenues for aggrieved parties to seek action or redress.

1. A student who believes that he or she has not been treated in a manner reflective of the Code of Civility should report such behavior to the appropriate building level administrator.

2. A parent, guardian or community member who believes that he or she has not been treated in a manner reflective of the Code of Civility should report such behavior to the staff member’s immediate supervisor or the student’s appropriate building level administrator.

3. An employee who believes that he or she has not been treated in a manner reflective of the Code of Civility should address the concern through the appropriate supervisory chain. If personal harm is threatened, the employee shall notify their supervisor and may also contact law enforcement. If a communication, such as voice mail or e-mail or any type of written communication, is demeaning, abusive, threatening, or obscene, the employee is not obligated to respond.

 4. Any visitor on school district property who has breached this Civility Code may be directed to leave the premises by an administrator or security officer. If a person does not immediately and willingly leave, law enforcement may be called.

KCS Statement of Compliance

Knox County Schools (KCS) is an equal opportunity provider of services and employment. KCS respects, celebrates and encourages diversity that positively contributes to the community. KCS believes diversity encompasses but is not limited to: ethnicity, race, age, gender, economic circumstances, sexual orientation, physical and mental abilities, education level, philosophy and geographic location. The Knox County Schools will not discriminate or limit access to any educator, principal, student, or community member based on gender, race, national origin, religion, color, disability, or age. The participants of this proposal are reflective of the above commitment to compliance. The resources of the Knox County Schools (TN) and their grant partners are broad in their support of the various needs of the students and families and ensure equitable access. At a minimum, reasonable accommodations are offered as defined by federal law. KCS will also meet the needs of participants’ if/when unique situations and circumstances occur. Support services include but are not limited to hearing, speech and vision services, physical access management, health-related support for various limitations, curricular differentiation and advice for multiple skill levels and learning sites, academic mentorship, and broadly focused guidance for students. The Knox County Schools (TN) continue to be committed in its support of all equity statutes as required by Federal law and actively pursues compliance on an ongoing basis. A formal grievance process that is open and accessible has been established for monitoring compliance and addressing concerns. Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies should be made to the Knox County Schools, director of Human Resources, 912 S. Gay Street, Knoxville, TN 37902.

Child Abuse and Neglect

An employee of Knox County Schools who suspects a child is abused or neglected is required by Tennessee Law to immediately make a report to the Department of Children Services or the Chief Law Enforcement Officer. For more information, see Knox County Policy: Child Abuse and Neglect (J-400) or to report, contact 877-237-0004 or https://apps.tn.gov/carat/

Equal Opportunity Notice 

The Knox County School System affirms that it will comply with Title IX of the Educational Amendment of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and Age Discrimination Act in Employment Act of 1967.

No person shall, on the ground of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability or veteran status, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance or be subjected to discrimination in employment opportunities or benefits.

Anyone who believes that Knox County School System has discriminated against them or another individual may file a complaint. Knox County Schools has designated the following people to handle such grievances to comply with the law. Student complaints of discrimination on the basis of disability should be directed to the Section 504 Compliance Coordinator, Room 909 of the Andrew Johnson Building at (865) 594-1540. Complaints of discrimination on the basis of disability, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, or veteran status should be directed to the Title VI, Title IX and ADA Coordinator, Room 1517 of the Andrew Johnson Building at (865) 594-1918 and/or the following:

Title VI Coordinator Tennessee Department of Education and/or The Office for Civil Rights U.S. Department of Education P.O. Box 2048, 04-3010 Atlanta, Georgia 30301-2048

Extracurricular Information

Prom Guidelines

In order to attend prom, students must meet the following guidelines:

1. A student can have no more than 4 days of OSS.

2. A student must be on track to graduate.

3. A student can have no more than 15 absences (excused or unexcused) for the year.

4. A student can have no more than 10 unexcused tardies to school.

Prom dates must be under the age of 21 to attend with a KHS student. If a student outside of KHS is attending prom, they must have proof of good standing from their base school via a form submitted to the school by 3 weeks prior to prom.

Field Trips

Field trips must be directly related to curriculum; school-sponsored activities, sanctioned school clubs, or graded performance requirements such as band and chorus. Participating in field trips is a privilege a student must earn. Students must have a permission form, signed by their parent/guardian, on file with the supervising teacher. Participation may be subject to denial for poor academic performance, inappropriate behavior, or excessive absences.

Extracurricular Activities