Marion Elementary School
209 Robert Street
Marion, NC 28752
Phone: 828.652.2141
Home of the Bulldogs
2023-2024
The faculty and staff at
Marion Elementary School
welcomes you to a new school year!
Purpose of Student/Parent Handbook
At Marion Elementary, our staff holds high expectations for our students and our school. We strive to provide a safe, orderly environment that supports student learning. This handbook presents information about school procedures, policies, and expectations for students and staff.
Any time that you have questions or concerns, please call the school.
Thank you for your help in making this a successful school year!
Mission Statement
Motivating
Empowering
Succeeding
Vision
Providing a nurturing environment where all students are leaders, and believe in their power to embrace learning, to excel, and to own their future.
Marion Elementary Faculty and Staff
Office Staff
Angela Wilkerson Principal
Rebecca Carlson Data Manager
Kim McCraw Administrative Assistant
Yulianna Arriola School Nurse
Dale Rinehart Counselor
Leah Johnson Social Worker
Teachers Area
Karen Matthews Pre-School
Pre-School
Brandy Cowart Kindergarten
Christian Lancaster Kindergarten
Lindsey Lewis Kindergarten
Chrissy Corson First Grade
Dara Ingram First Grade
Krissy Loftis First Grade
Dustin Bartlett Second Grade
Eric Davis Second Grade
Amy Suttles Second Grade
Wendy Davis Third Grade
Michelle Smith Third Grade
Michelle Worsham Third Grade
Danna Yelton Third Grade
Christie Dietrich Fourth Grade
Melanie Hamilton Fourth Grade
Jessica Ross Fourth Grade
Katie Kaylor Fifth Grade
Karen Parks Fifth Grade
Sandy Warren Fifth Grade
Patricia Arthur Exceptional Children
Stephanie Norton Speech Pathologist
ESL Teacher
Leslie Kazee Title 1 Reading
Jessica Mace Media Coordinator
Patrick Davidson Physical Education
Instructional Assistants Area
Elizabeth Gartner Preschool
Preschool
Rhonda Boyd K-5, Bus Driver
Maria Anderson K-5, Bus Driver
Tiffany Thynne K-5, Bus Driver
Amy Helton K-5
Steffny Robinson K-5
K-5
Arlene Bartlett EC
Theresa Queen Technology, Bus Driver
Shannon Ward MTSS Support
Jessica Hudson Student Support
Cafeteria
Brandy Curlee Manager
Kathy White
Johona Sexton
Jessica Mullins
Custodians
Dwayne Moore 1st Shift Custodian
Elaine Weeks 2nd Shift Custodian
This handbook does not in any way supersede McDowell County School Board Policy, state or federal guidelines. These policies are available online at www.mcdowell.k12.nc.us (Click Board of Education, then Board Policy Manual).
Arrival & Departure
School hours 7:50 am -2:45 pm
Arrival
Our first priority is the safety of our students. All car riders must enter the building through the entrance near the gym with the exception of Pre-Kindergarten students. Car riders may not be dropped off in the front semi-circle due to supervision and safety issues. Students may begin arriving at 7:30 am and are required to go straight to their classroom. Due to safety concerns, students may not arrive before 7:30 am and may not be dropped off in other parking areas. Students who are tardy (after 7:50am) will need to report to the office to sign in. Please help your child develop good attendance habits by having him/her at school on time everyday!
Departure
Students are dismissed at 2:45pm. Students are dismissed through the door at the side of the school. Again, our first priority is the safety of our students. ALL parents picking up students will need a car rider tag provided by the school. If you do not have a car rider tag, these are available in the office. The gate to enter the car-rider line is locked until 2:00pm. Car riders will be dismissed as their names are called. Our staff will remain on duty assisting students with getting to their cars until 3:10pm. All car riders must be picked up by 3:10pm.
All students that walk to school will be dismissed from the Pre-K hallway entrance of the school at 2:45.
First load bus riders will be dismissed to their buses at 2:40pm.
Changes in Afternoon Transportation
If your child will be going home by a different means (a car rider instead of riding the bus, riding a different bus, or getting off at a different stop), please tell your child that morning and send a note to the school that has been signed and states the change. Students will not be allowed to change afternoon transportation unless parental permission is given. Except in an emergency, please make transportation changes via a written note instead of calling the school. This will help with the amount of phone calls we receive in our office each afternoon and will eliminate confusion for your child. We appreciate your help in this matter.
Releasing a Child to the Parent
According to policy, if either parent comes to school to get a child, the child must be released to the parent. The exception to this is when one parent has legal custody, which places restrictions on the other parent. If you have custody of your child under the above circumstances, please file a copy of the legal papers in the school office. Unless your legal documents are on file with us, we must provide equal rights to both parents. The principal, secretary, and your child’s teacher should be made aware of these restrictions for the safety of the child.
Visitors
We want our visitors to feel welcome at Marion Elementary! We ask that you adhere to the following safety guidelines:
- All visitors must enter the school through the front doors near the office.
- All visitors must report to the office first, in accordance with our Safe Schools Policy and receive a visitor’s badge.
- Conferences should be arranged in advance, and at a time when the teacher does not have students in the classroom.
- If you would like to eat lunch with your child one day, please let the classroom teacher know the day before.
Attendance
Students are expected to be in school on a regular basis. Attendance is crucial for your child’s educational achievement. Children who are absent from school miss valuable instruction and activities that enhance learning.
A student must be present at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the school’s instructional day to be recorded present for the day.
When a student must miss school or fails to meet the attendance requirements of seventy-five percent (75%) of the day, a written excuse signed by a parent or guardian must be presented to the student’s teacher on the day the student returns after an absence. Generally, a parent or legal guardian may request that up to six (6) days of their child’s absences be excused for the reasons below without further review from the school. An absence may be excused for any of the following reasons relative to elementary school, in accordance with McDowell County Schools’ Policy 4400:
1. Personal illness or injury that makes the student physically unable to attend school.
2. Isolation ordered by the State Board of Health.
3. Death in the immediate family.
4. Medical or dental appointment.
5. Participation under subpoena as a witness in a court proceeding.
6. A minimum of two days each academic year, for observance of an
event required or suggested by the religion of the student or the student’s parent(s). The student will have the opportunity to make up any tests or other work missed due to the excused absence for a religious observance.
7. Participation in a valid educational opportunity, such as travel or
service as a legislative or Governor’s page, with prior approval from
the principal.
In accordance with McDowell County Schools’ Attendance Policy 4400, if a student is absent from school for six or more days in a semester, the principal or a designated committee shall review the academic achievement of the student in relation to excessive absences. The school day begins at 7:50 A.M. and ends at 2:45 P.M. Students arriving after the beginning of the school day are considered tardy and must sign-in at the office. Students leaving before the end of the school day are considered early check-out
Early Checkout of Students
Parents or guardians should not pick up children from school during school hours unless it is absolutely necessary. Please send a note to your child’s teacher documenting the early check-out. Frequent, unnecessary early check-outs result in lost instructional time.
Parents who need to pick up their child during school hours are required to come to the office, as in accordance with our Safe Schools Policy. All parents/guardians need to be prepared to provide photo identification. Parents will wait in the office until the student arrives for check out. Please contact the office by telephone or a written note if someone other than a parent is to pick up your child. This is for the safety of our students.
Emergency Contact Information
It is extremely important for us to have a telephone number on file in the office for all parents/guardians so that we can reach you in case of an emergency. In addition to having numbers for you, we also need numbers of close friends, relatives, or neighbors that will be available in the event that you cannot be reached. If your contact information changes during the school year, please call the office (652-2141) to give the school your new information.
Lost and Found Items
Items found at school are taken to our Lost and Found area located in the hallway at the top of the ramp. We encourage you to have your child’s name on lunch boxes, notebooks, jackets, and coats so that we may get them back to their rightful owner.
Homework
Schools do their best job of educating children when they have parents/guardians as partners. All students should read at home each night. We encourage you to be active in teaching your child responsibility for completing homework assignments and appreciate your support at home. If you have concerns regarding your child’s homework, please discuss this with his/her teacher.
Weather (Early Dismissal or Cancellation)
If it is necessary to either dismiss school early or cancel school because of inclement weather conditions, the Superintendent of McDowell County Schools will send a call through the MCS call system. In addition it will be posted on McDowell County Schools website. Television and radio stations will be notified as well. The school system’s phone system will contact you prior to early dismissal according to the phone numbers we have in our system. (Please make sure those numbers are accurate!) If road conditions worsen after the dismissal announcement has been made and there is any question regarding student safety, students will be kept at school. Safety is our top priority!
An early dismissal form will be sent home with your child along with many other beginning of the year forms. Please fill it out completely and return to your child’s teacher as soon as possible. During the year, if these plans change, please complete a new form. Discuss these procedures with your child so he/she understands what is expected when this situation arises.
Drills
Fire drills are conducted on a monthly basis. These drills teach the students the safest, quickest exit route from the school building in case of a fire emergency. We will also participate in an annual tornado drill to prepare students in the event we were to have a tornado. Our school also practices procedures for lock-down situations. These lockdown drills prepare our staff and students to quickly get to a secure location should it ever be
necessary.
Field Trips
Field trips are intended to expand/enhance learning and bring real-life experience and meaning to the curriculum. Often, parents are encouraged to serve as chaperones and supervise students for various field trips. Their assistance is greatly appreciated! Background checks must be completed for parent chaperones.
The following are guidelines for field trip safety:
- Parents are not permitted to ride on an activity bus.
- Students must ride the activity bus going to the field trip location.
- Students may ride home from the field trip with their parents. In this case, parents will need to see the teacher to sign them out.
Physical Education
Your child will have PE class once or twice a week. Your child’s teacher will let you know the PE schedule. For safety reasons, all children should wear tennis shoes or soft-soled shoes during PE class. Children should wear clothing appropriate for physical activity. Participation in the program will be required unless excused by a doctor for health reasons.
Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)
Marion Elementary would like to reorganize its PTO which seemed to dissolve during the pandemic. You will receive more information.
Volunteering
We LOVE volunteers! In order to provide a safe environment for our students, volunteer activities will require criminal background checks. If you would like to complete this process please contact the office. Volunteers will need to report to the office for a volunteer badge. Information regarding volunteering for this school year will be coming home soon. We look forward to a great year with our wonderful volunteers!
Breakfast and Lunch
For the 2023 - 24 school year McDowell County Schools will be offering breakfast and lunch at no charge to all students.
Immunizations/Proof of Age
In accordance with state law, it is mandatory that your child have proof of age and an adequate certification of immunizations on file in the school office. Failure to have this on file may lead to your child being unable to attend school until proper documentation is filed. Kindergarten students have 30 calendar days from the first day of attendance to have their health assessment record completed by a certified health official and to obtain the required immunizations. After the 30 days, the child cannot attend school until the required immunizations have been obtained.
Health Concerns
If your child has severe reactions to bee stings or insect stings, allergies to food, or any other special health concern, please notify the school in writing so that we will have the necessary information and will know the proper procedure to follow. The teacher, office staff, and nurse should be made aware of these conditions.
Medications
The McDowell County School System has adopted a policy regarding the administration of medication at school. Before prescription or over the counter medication can be given to students, the school must have a completed “Request for Medication” form signed by the doctor and the parent on file in the school office. ALL medications must be in the original package and/or container appropriately labeled by the pharmacist and must be labeled with the student’s name, name of the medication, and directions for dosage. Please remember to supply needed items to measure the dosage. If a student takes medication of any kind while at school, the parent must bring the medication to the school. Please do not send any medications to school with your child.
Citizenship
It is each student’s responsibility to display qualities of good citizenship. Students’ best conduct is expected in the halls, in the cafeteria, on the playground, in the classroom, or any place considered school grounds. Teachers and staff will give special emphasis to honesty, morality, and courtesy. Our PAWS Matrix and area expectations are posted throughout the building. All students are expected to meet these expectations.
Conferences/Communication
In order for students to be most successful, parents and teachers must work together. At Marion Elementary, we want to build a partnership to help your child excel. Parent/Teacher conferences are essential in your child’s education. Specific dates and times for these conferences will be sent to parents closer to the actual dates. However, if you have concerns about your child, please don’t hesitate to contact the teacher through a note, Dojo, phone call, or email. All teachers can be emailed by using their
first name.last name@mcdowell.k12.nc.us (i.e. john.smith@mcdowell.k12.nc.us). We will be happy to meet with you to discuss any concerns you may have. The best time to reach your child’s teacher is to call the school after 2:45pm. In order to keep students safe and not lose instructional time, teachers will not be available during the school day to take phone calls.
2023-24 MCS Student Code of Conduct
Cell Phones
In accordance with the McDowell County School Board Policy, students are not allowed to have cell phones out or turned on during instructional time. Violations of this policy will result in the cell phone being collected by a staff member and will be taken to the office for parent pickup.
Toys, Valuables, Electronic Devices, etc
Non-instructional items at school can distract students from learning. Valuables such as electronic devices, games, toys, etc. should not be brought to school. Marion Elementary will not be responsible for these items. Any such items that are interfering with student learning will be taken by school staff and turned into the office. Parents may choose to pick those items up at their convenience. Please help us protect instructional time by making sure your child does not bring these items to school unless specifically told by a teacher for special events.
Weapons
It is against state law for anyone to have a weapon on school property or at any school sponsored event. All employees, students, and visitors must adhere to this law. This includes pocket knives, other kinds of knives, guns, or any item that could be used as a weapon. Students who are in possession of a weapon at school or a school sponsored event may be suspended from school. Parents are reminded that having a gun in their vehicle while on school property is a violation of this law, unless they have a conceal carry permit. If parents have a permit it must be locked in the vehicle. (See Board Policy: # Policy Code: 5027/7275) In the event of a weapon being on campus, the weapon must be confiscated and turned over to the Marion Police Department or Sheriff’s Department. In addition, no toy weapons are allowed at school or a school sponsored event. Parents are held responsible for the items their child brings to school. Thank you for your adherence to this state policy.
Tobacco, Drugs, and Alcohol Policy
The use or possession of tobacco products, drugs, and/or alcohol is prohibited on school property or at any school related function according to McDowell County School Board Policy. Individuals who are using tobacco products on school property or at a school sponsored event will be asked to stop or leave the school grounds. Possession of illegal drugs or alcohol must be reported. Please refer to the McDowell County School Code of Student Conduct for more information.
School Wide Expectations
At Marion Elementary, we strive to create a safe, orderly, and caring environment where students can learn. Students are expected to display appropriate behavior at all times and in all areas of the school. Marion Bulldogs (students) are expected to PAWS in the school at all times.
School Wide Expectations at Marion Elementary are:
Practice a Positive Attitude
Act Responsible
Work Together for Success
Show Respect
Students who display appropriate behavior may be rewarded in various ways: Principal’s Award, Super Conduct Awards, and individual praise and recognition within the classroom setting.
Each teacher will explain school and classroom rules to his/her students. Misbehavior will be viewed as an opportunity for individual problem solving and preparation for the real world. A variety of consequences, however, can be used with students who do not display appropriate behaviors. These include, but are not limited to, warnings, natural consequences, time out/thinking time, silent reflective lunch, revoked privileges, in-school suspension, out of school suspension, and bus suspensions.
In order to guarantee your child has the excellent learning climate he or she deserves, the following expectations have been established:
2023-24 MCS Student Code of Conduct
McDowell County Schools
Handbooks
STUDENT DRESS CODE
(Policy #4316-R)
The following dress code applies to students at ALL SCHOOLS IN MCDOWELL COUNTY:
- The length of dresses, skirts, and shorts must reach at least mid-thigh.
- Pants, shorts, and skirts must be worn at the waist.
- Undergarments must not be exposed.
- The following clothing and/or items are not allowed:
- See-through clothing
- Tops that expose the front, back, and/or side of the torso, including slit sides, completely bare shoulders, spaghetti straps, halter tops, muscle shirts, half shirts, etc.
- Pants or shorts that have holes above mid-thigh
- Spike bracelets or necklaces
- Bedroom shoes/slippers
- Pajamas
- Hoods that cover the face and bandanas are not to be worn in the school building during the instructional day. Items worn may be confiscated by the administration.
- No clothing disruptive or detrimental to the instructional process is allowed. This includes attire that displays alcoholic beverages, drugs, and tobacco products or promotes violence, hatred, or intolerance.
- Shoes are to be worn at all times.
- Sunglasses are not to be worn in the school building.
*School officials have the authority and responsibility to determine whether a student’s appearance satisfies the intent of this policy. Anything that disrupts the learning environment will be deemed unacceptable. The administration will ask the student to change or adjust clothing as necessary. The administration has the final authority to deem attire as appropriate. Students are required to follow the dress code outlined in their school handbook.
Bus Expectations
Student safety is our main concern, and safe passenger behavior is essential. Whether riding a yellow school bus or an activity bus, students are expected to display appropriate behavior and observe bus safety rules. Student behavior must allow the driver to focus attention on safe driving and not be distracted by students doing inappropriate things. All regular school rules apply on our buses plus these safety rules:
- Stay seated with your back against the seat and feet forward.
- No talking while the lights are on.
- Use a quiet voice when the lights are off.
- Keep hands, feet and all objects to self and away from windows, doors and aisles.
- Follow safe procedures getting on and off the bus (walk, watch for traffic,
keep objects zipped up inside a book bag).
- Use positive language – No bad language.
- Obey the driver for any other requests to keep all riders and drivers safe.
- All electronic devices and toys should be left at home.
Riding the bus is a privilege and students who do not display appropriate behavior may be suspended from the bus. When a student is suspended from the bus, parents must provide transportation to and from school.
Students who behave appropriately and positively will be rewarded as follows:
Verbal Praise, Rewards, Certificates, Super Conduct, Principal’s Award
County Policies
McDowell County Schools
Mission Statement
Inspiring Success: Student-Centered; Mission-Driven
Mission Statement
The mission of McDowell County Schools is to deliver excellence in education where students are engaged in collaboration, communication, and innovation so that they graduate ready to achieve success and positively shape the future.
NINE CHARACTER CONCEPTS
Courage
Having the determination to do the right thing even when others don’t; having the strength to follow your conscience rather than the crowd; attempting difficult things that are worthwhile.
Good Judgment
Choosing worthy goals and setting proper priorities; thinking through the consequences of your actions; and basing decisions on practical wisdom and good sense.
Integrity
Having the inner strength to be truthful, trustworthy, and honest in all things; acting justly and honorably.
Kindness
Being considerate, courteous, helpful, and understanding of others; showing care, compassion, friendship, and generosity; and treating others, as you would like to be treated.
Perseverance
Being persistent in the pursuit of worthy objectives in spite of difficulty, opposition, or discouragement; and exhibiting patience and having the fortitude to try again when confronted with delays, mistakes, or failures.
Respect
Showing high regard for authority, for other people, for self, for property, and for country; and understanding that all people have value as human beings.
Responsibility
Being dependable in carrying out obligations and duties; showing reliability and consistency in words and conduct; being accountable for your own actions; and being committed to active involvement in your community.
Self-Discipline
Demonstrating hard work and commitment to purpose; regulating yourself for improvement and restraining from inappropriate behaviors; being in proper control of words, actions, impulses, and desires; choosing abstinence from premarital sex, drugs, alcohol, and other harmful substances and behaviors; and doing your best in all situations.
Citizenship/Civic Virtue
Obeying the laws of the nation and state; abiding by school rules; and understanding the rights and responsibilities of a member of the United States of America.
As the Student Citizen Act of 2001 encourages, in addition to the above list of traits, McDowell County Schools will include instruction in the following:
1. Respect for Others – holding students, teachers, school personnel, and members of the community in high esteem and demonstrating in words and deeds that everyone deserves to be treated with courtesy, respect, and proper deference.
2. Respect for School Property and Personal Property – holding students and school personnel responsible for appreciation, care, and maintenance of personal and school property.
3. Responsibility for School Safety – helping to create a harmonious school atmosphere that is free from threats, weapons, and violent or disruptive behavior; cultivating an orderly learning environment in which students and school personnel feel safe and secure; and encouraging the resolution of conflict and disagreements through peaceful means including peer mediation.
4. Service to Others – engaging in meaningful service to their schools and communities. Schools may teach service-learning by (i) incorporating it into their standard curriculum or (ii) involving a classroom or another group of students in hands-on community service projects.
(This list was developed by the Wake County Character Education Task Force in 1994, on behalf of the Wake County Public Schools System. It was selected to be used in the 1996 legislation.
McDowell County Schools listed Good Citizenship in the first list instead of in the second list and added Respect for School Property.)
SCHOOLWIDE TITLE I PROGRAMS
All McDowell County Elementary Schools operate school-wide Title I programs. Title I provides federal funding for schools to help students who are behind academically or are at risk of falling behind. Funding is based on the number of lower-income children in a school but services are provided to help all students achieve academic success. Title I money may be combined with other funds to provide more services and resources for students. These services can include additional personnel, parental involvement activities, professional development, and purchase of materials and supplies. A school-wide Title I program can offer programs that can help improve your child’s education. A good education can give your child a better chance of success in life!
Title I schools are required to notify parents of their rights to receive certain information.
∙ Parents may request information concerning the professional qualifications of their child’s teacher(s), including the degrees held, certifications held, and whether the teacher is certified in the area he/she is teaching.
∙ Schools must notify parents if their child has been assigned, or has been taught for at least four consecutive weeks by a teacher who does not meet the Highly Qualified definition.
∙ Parents may request information concerning whether or not their child is receiving instruction by a teacher assistant, and if so, his/her qualifications.
- Parent communication and involvement are important, especially under the No Child Left Behind legislation. Parents in Title I schools have certain rights concerning parent involvement.
∙ Parents must be a part of developing or revising, as needed, a written parent involvement policy that is distributed to all
parents.
∙ Parents must be invited to an annual public meeting.
∙ Parents have a right to be involved in planning and implementing the parent involvement program in their school.
∙ Parents can receive materials and training to foster greater parent involvement.
∙ Parents have the right to see yearly “report cards” showing how their child and the school are performing under the school-wide Title I program.
Parents can help!
∙ Look at your child’s performance and be sure you understand where your child stands in reading mathematics.
∙ Talk with your child’s teacher (s) and principal to find out how you and your school can work together to improve your child’s performance.
∙ Attend parent conferences
∙ Participate in parent involvement activities and opportunities.
∙ Be aware of your school’s performance under No Child Left Behind and the state testing program.
∙ Communicate your school’s successes to your community and look for ways to support your school.
Educators cannot improve schools alone. In North Carolina, we reach these high standards as a partnership with parents, schools, and communities. Adapted from Information for Parents in Title I Schools published by Public Schools of North Carolina, Department of Public Instruction.
SECTION II
PRIVACY OF STUDENT RECORDS
RIGHT OF PARENTS TO REVIEW AND INSPECT
STUDENT CUMULATIVE RECORDS
Those who have the right to inspect and review the cumulative record folder kept about the student include (1) parents/guardians of students who are under 18 years of age, (2) parents/guardians who claim students who are at least 18 as dependents under Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code, and (3) students who are at least 18 (hereafter called eligible students).
The McDowell County School system presumes that parents of students who are currently attending a school within the McDowell County School System claim the student as a dependent for tax purposes. Any student at least 18 years of age and attending a school within the system who does not want the parents to have access to the cumulative record folder must so inform the principal of the school where the records are kept and prove that he/she is not a tax dependent of the parents. If a parent of a student who is at least 18 and no longer attending a school within the district wishes to inspect and review the child’s cumulative record file, the parent must prove to the principal that the student is a dependent for federal income tax purposes.
Requests from parents or eligible students who wish to review the cumulative record folder shall be made to the principal of the student’s school. When the principal receives a request for review of the records from a parent or a student who has a right to inspect the records, the principal shall schedule the review. The appointment date should be as early as possible but never later than 45 days after the request is made. The inspection and review shall be made in the office of the principal or at another designated place.
A school official competent in interpreting student records shall be present to explain the implications of the records that are examined. Parents or eligible students who wish to inspect records and live within fifty miles of the place where the records are kept must do so at the place designated by the school system. After the inspection, they may request copies of the records they inspected. Parents or students who live farther than 50 miles from the place where the records are kept may request copies of the records without first inspecting them at the school or central office. The copies shall be sent by registered mail, return receipt requested.
ATTENDANCE
MCDOWELL COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY MANUAL
Policy Code: - 4400
School attendance and class participation are integral parts of academic achievement and the teaching-learning process. Through regular attendance, students develop patterns of behavior essential to professional and personal success in life. Regular attendance by every student is mandatory. The State of North Carolina requires that every child in the State between the ages of 7 (or younger if enrolled) and 16 attend school. Parents or legal guardians are responsible for ensuring that students attend and remain at school daily. School administrators shall communicate attendance expectations to parents and guardians and work with students and their families to overcome barriers to attendance.
A. ATTENDANCE RECORDS School officials shall keep an accurate record of attendance, including accurate attendance records in each class. Students will be considered in attendance if present at least seventyfive percent (75%) of the instructional day on-site in the school or at a place other than the school attending an authorized school-related activity. To be in attendance during remote instruction days (with the exception of the initial enrollment day), students must:
(1) complete their daily assignments, either online or offline; and/or
(2) have a daily check-in through two-way communication with
(a) the homeroom teacher for grades K-5 or
(b) for all other grade levels, each course teacher as scheduled. School officials shall communicate the attendance procedures to students and their families before the first day remote instruction begins. Teachers are responsible for maintaining accurate records of student absences and tardies for their classes. The student’s report card is considered notification of absences. In accordance with North Carolina General Statute 115C-378 and McDowell County Board policies, notification will be given when a student has accumulated three
(3), six (6) and ten (10) unexcused daily absences.
B. LATE ARRIVALS AND EARLY DEPARTURES Students are expected to be at school on time and to remain at school until dismissed. During the school day, students are expected to be present at the scheduled starting time for each class and to remain until the class ends. When a student must be late to school or leave school early, a written excuse signed by a parent or guardian should be presented upon the student’s arrival at school. Tardies or early departures may be excused for any of the reasons listed below in Section C. Any disciplinary consequences for unexcused tardiness or unexcused early departures from school or class will be consistent with Section D of policy 4300, Student Behavior Policies. The superintendent or designee shall list in the Code of Student Conduct the specific range Policy Code: 4400 MCDOWELL COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY MANUAL Page 2 of 6 of consequences that may be imposed on a student for such offenses. Consequences may not exceed a short-term suspension of two days.
C. DEFINITION OF ATTENDANCE A student in (Kindergarten through thirteenth grade) must be present at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the school’s instructional day to be recorded present for that day. A student in ninth through thirteenth (9th-13th) grade must be present at least seventy-five percent (75%) of the class period to be recorded present for that class period.
D. EXCUSED ABSENCES When a student must miss school, a written excuse signed by a parent or guardian must be presented to the student’s teacher on the day the student returns after an absence. Absences due to extended illnesses may also require a statement from a health care practitioner. An absence may be excused for any of the following reasons:
1. personal illness or injury that makes the student physically unable to attend school;
2. isolation ordered by the local health officer or State Board of Health or isolation or quarantine that is a required state or local control measure;
3. death in the immediate family;
4. medical or dental appointment;
5. attendance at the proceedings of a court or administrative tribunal if the student is party to the action or under subpoena as a witness;
6. a minimum of two days each academic year for observance of an event required or suggested by the religion of the student or the student’s parent or legal guardian;
7. participation in a valid educational opportunity, such as travel or service as a legislative or Governor’s page, with prior approval from the principal;
8. pregnancy and related conditions or parenting, when medically necessary;
9. a minimum of two days each academic year for visitation with the student’s parent or legal guardian if the student is not identified as at risk of academic failure because of unexcused absences and the student’s parent or legal guardian
(a) is an active duty member of the uniformed services as defined by policy 4050, Children of Military Families, and
(b) has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting; or Policy Code: 4400 MCDOWELL COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY MANUAL Page 3 of 6 10. any other reason as approved by the board in a board resolution. In the case of excused absences, short-term out-of-school suspensions, and absences under G.S. 130A-440 (for failure to submit a school health assessment form with 30 days of entering school) the student will be permitted to make up his or her work. (See also policies 4110, Immunization and Health Requirements for School Admission, and 4351, ShortTerm Suspension.) The teacher will determine when work is to be made up. The student is responsible for finding out what assignments are due and completing them within the specified time period.
E. SCHOOL-RELATED ACTIVITIES While recognizing the importance of classroom learning, the board also acknowledges that out-of-classroom, school-related activities can provide students with valuable experiences not available in the classroom setting. The following school-related activities will not be counted as absences from either class or school:
1. field trips sponsored by the school;
2. job shadows and other work-based learning opportunities, as described in G.S. 115C-47(34a);
3. school-initiated and -scheduled activities;
4. athletic events that require early dismissal from school; and
5. Career and Technical Education student organization activities approved in advance by the principal. In addition, students participating in disciplinary techniques categorized as in-school suspension will not be counted as absent.
F. MAKEUP WORK In the case of excused absences, short-term out-of-school suspensions, and absences under G.S. 130A-440 (for failure to submit a school health assessment form within 30 days of entering school), the student will be permitted to make up his or her missed work. (See also policies 4110, Immunization and Health Requirements for School Admission, and 4351, Short-Term Suspension.) Assignments missed due to participation in school-related activities also are eligible for makeup by the student. The teacher shall determine when work is to be made up. The student is responsible for finding out what assignments are due and completing them within the specified time period.
G. UNEXCUSED ABSENCES Policy Code: 4400 MCDOWELL COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY MANUAL Page 4 of 6 The principal shall notify parents and take all other steps required by G.S. 115C-378 for excessive, unexcused absences. Any school disciplinary consequences for unexcused absences will be consistent with Section D of policy 4300, Student Behavior Policies. The superintendent or designee shall list in the Code of Student Conduct the specific range of consequences that may be imposed on a student for such offenses. Consequences may not exceed a short-term suspension of two days. When a child is found to have head lice, the parent or legal guardian shall be notified either by phone or in writing. A parent or legal guardian must treat the lice immediately with an appropriate product and make every effort to remove all nits. Students may return to school upon completion of treatment. The parent or legal guardian must make every effort to remove all nits and provide proof of treatment. Students will not be admitted to school with live lice. Other than the day the student is originally sent home, the student shall accumulate unexcused absences for days missed due to the occurrence of lice. If a student returns to school after being diagnosed with head lice and live lice are still present, the student shall be sent home and receive an unexcused absence.
H. CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM Because class attendance and participation are critical elements of the educational process, any absences, whether excused or unexcused, can have a negative impact on a student’s academic achievement. Regular attendance must be prioritized within each school and encouraged throughout the community. School administrators shall monitor and analyze attendance data to develop and implement strategies for reducing chronic absenteeism. Such strategies should involve engaging students and parents, recognizing good and improved attendance, providing early outreach to families of students missing school, and identifying and addressing barriers to attendance. Kindergarten through Eighth (K-8 th) Grade If a student is absent from school for six (6) or more days, the principal or a committee established by the principal shall consider whether the student’s grades should be reduced because of the absences. The principal or committee shall review other measures of academic achievement, the circumstances of the absences, the number of absences, and the extent to which the student completed missed work. A committee may recommend to the principal and the principal may make any of the following determinations:
1. the student will not receive a passing grade;
2. the student will receive the grade otherwise earned;
3. the student will be given additional time to complete the missed work before a determination of the appropriate grade is made; or Policy Code: 4400 MCDOWELL COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY MANUAL Page 5 of 6
4. the student will be given the opportunity to make up missed instructional time. Ninth through Thirteenth (9 th -13th) Grade A student absent more than six (6) times in the same class period in a semester shall not receive credit for that class. However, the student must continue in the class with appropriate behavior and must complete required work. Students who lose credit for absences but who are passing the course(s) may make up the credit by attending the after school enrichment sessions or the summer school enrichment class. The parent or legal guardian shall receive a letter notifying them of the student’s loss of credit. Within thirty (30) days of notice or prior to the end of the grading period whichever occurs first, the parent or legal guardian may make a final appeal regarding the loss of credit directly to the Principal who has the final legal authority to grade and classify the student.
I. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
1. Students with Chronic Health Problems No penalties will be imposed for absences due to documented chronic health problems.
2. Students Experiencing Homelessness For students experiencing homelessness (see board policy 4125, Homeless Students), school officials must consider issues related to the student’s homelessness, such as a change of caregivers or nighttime residence, before taking disciplinary action or imposing other barriers to school attendance based on excessive absences or tardies.
3. Attendance Requirements for Extracurricular Activities Absences may impact eligibility for participation in extracurricular activities. Principals shall inform students and parents of the applicable attendance standards for the various types of extracurricular activities, including interscholastic athletics. See also policy 3620, Extracurricular Activities and Student Organizations.
Legal References: McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 11431, et seq.; G.S. 115C-47, -84.2, -288(a), -375.5, -378 to -383, -390.2(d), -390.2(l), -390.5, -407.5; 130A-440; 16 N.C.A.C. 6E .0102, .0103, .0106; State Board of Education Policies ATND-000, -003McKinney- Policy Code: 4400 MCDOWELL COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICY MANUAL Page 6 of 6 Vento Homeless Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 11431, et seq.; G.S. 115C-47, -84.2, -288(a), -375.5, - 378 to -383, -390.2(d), -390.2(l), -390.5, -407.5; 130A-440; 16 N.C.A.C. 6E .0102, -.0103; State Board of Education Policies ATND-000, -003, NCAC-007 Cross References: Extracurricular Activities and Student Organizations (policy 3620), Education for Pregnant and Parenting Students (policy 4023), Children of Military Families (policy 4050), Immunization and Health Requirements for School Admission (policy 4110), Homeless Students (policy 4125), Student Behavior Policies (policy 4300), Short-Term Suspension (policy 4351) Adopted: February 16, 2009 Revised: February 21, 2011, August 15, 2011; November 3, 2011; June 13, 2016; May 8, 2017; July 9, 2018; February 10, 2020; November 9, 2020; June 14, 2021; December 6, 2021; May 9, 2022
IDEA – Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
Child Find Project - Child Find is a component of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that requires states to identify, locate, and evaluate all children with disabilities, aged birth to 22, who are in need of early intervention or special education. Referrals may be made to any school or to the Exceptional Children’s department.
Discipline
Authority of School Personnel and Case-by-Case Determination - School personnel may consider any unique circumstances on a case-by-case basis when determining whether a change of placement, made in accordance with the following requirements related to discipline, is appropriate for a child with a disability who violates a school code of student conduct. Note: A removal is usually called an out-of-school suspension (OSS), but it may also include any time the school calls and asks you to pick up your child before the end of the school day because of disciplinary reasons. It also includes in-school-suspension (ISS), if services are not provided to your child, and suspension from the bus, IF transportation is a related service for child’s IEP.
General - To the extent that they also take such action for children without disabilities, school personnel may, for not more than 10 school days in a row, remove a child with a disability who violates a code of student conduct from his or her current placement to an appropriate interim alternative educational setting, another setting, or suspension. School personnel may also impose additional removals of the child of not more than 10 school days in a row in that same school year for separate incidents of misconduct, as long as those removals do not constitute a change of placement.
Once a child with a disability has been removed from his or her current placement for a total of 10 school days in the same school year, the school district must, during any subsequent days of removal in that school year, provide services to the extent required below under the sub-heading Services. If the behavior that violated the student code of conduct was not a manifestation of the child’s disability and the disciplinary change of placement would exceed 10 school days in a row, school personnel may apply the disciplinary procedures to that child with a disability in the same manner and for the same duration as it would to children without disabilities, except that the school must provide services to that child as described below under Services. The child’s IEP Team determines the interim alternative educational setting for such services.
Transfer Students
Transfers within McDowell County Schools - Students with IEPs are assigned to the school they would normally attend based on attendance zone or a parent’s school choice. However, changes to school assignment will be made when the goals, objectives, services and/or the accommodations on the IEP cannot be implemented at the attendance zone or choice school. If it is determined that a student’s IEP cannot be implemented at the student’s attendance zone or choice school, then the student will be assigned to a school that can implement the IEP within the region of the attendance zone school. If it is determined that a student’s IEP cannot be implemented at the regional school because of class size, transportation issues, accessibility and/or other factors, then Special Education and Related Service will determine the school assignment.
Dispute Resolution
Any person who has a concern about the education of a student with a disability can raise the issue in one of several ways. For example, it is always appropriate to: discuss the matter with the student's teacher or principal at the local school, or it is also helpful to contact the Director of Exceptional Children Program in the central office of the school system, charter school, or state operated program. The Exceptional Children Division's consultants for dispute resolution and consultants for instructional support and related services are also able to offer consultation to assist parents, advocates, or school system, charter school, or state operated programs personnel who request help with problem-solving. Consultants at the Department of Public Instruction are neutral and refrain from taking sides when there is a disagreement, but consistently advocate for appropriate services for children with disabilities. They are committed to the protection of rights for children with disabilities and their parents. An informal means of problem solving is provided through the Exceptional Children Division's Facilitated IEP Program for school systems, charter schools, state operated programs, and parents. Formal means for dispute resolution are also available through the Department of Public Instruction, Exceptional Children Division. These options are requirements of federal and state laws governing special education - Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA), and Policies Governing Services for Children with Disabilities. When there is an unresolved disagreement over identification, evaluation or educational placement of a child with a disability or the provision of free appropriate public education, the options for dispute resolution are mediation, formal written complaint, and due process hearing. A formal complaint filed on the same issue(s) as contained in a petition for a due process hearing will not be investigated. These options are also available to the adult student who has reached the age of majority (18), unless legally deemed incompetent or unable to make educational decisions.
For more information please contact:
Department of Exceptional Children Programs at 652-6580
NOTIFICATION of RIGHTS UNDER FERPA
At the beginning of each school year, the McDowell County School System shall send the following notice to parents of students under the age of eighteen and to students who are at least eighteen and are currently attending school within the system:
TO ALL PARENTS OF STUDENTS CURRENTLY ATTENDING THE MCDOWELL COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM AND ALL STUDENTS CURRENTLY ATTENDING THE SYSTEM WHO HAVE REACHED THE AGE OF 18:
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) provides parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights are:
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 to be inaccurate. Parents or eligible students may ask the School to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write the School principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. 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 to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. 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 to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A 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 right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by McDowell County Schools 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 20202-5901.
According to FERPA, information designated as directory information may be released by the district without parental consent, provided annual notification has been given. Directory information is information that is generally considered NOT harmful or an invasion of privacy if released. In addition, Federal No Child Left Behind legislation requires that McDowell County Schools provide military recruiters, upon request, with 3 directory information categories – names, addresses and telephone listings –unless parents have advised McDowell County Schools in writing that they do not want their student’s information disclosed to the military. Traditionally, military recruiters only request this information for current 11th and 12th grade students.
Directory information may include, but is not limited to, the information listed below:
Name of student
Address of student
Telephone number of student
Photographs
Audio recordings
Video recordings
Dates of attendance
Grade level
Major Field of Study
Date and Place of Birth
The most recent educational agency or institution attended
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
Weight and height of members of athletic teams
Degrees, honors, and awards received
Schools do use discretion when releasing directory information and will not release such information if it is the principal’s judgment that releasing such information would not be in the best interest of the student.
Please consider very carefully any decision to withhold “directory information.” If you inform McDowell County Schools in writing not to release information, any requests for such information from individuals or entities not affiliated with McDowell County Schools shall be refused. FOR EXAMPLE: REFUSAL COULD MEAN NO INFORMATION TO NEWSPAPER, SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHER, ANNUAL PUBLISHER (NO PICTURE OR NAME IN THE ANNUAL), NO INCLUSION IN ANY SCHOOL NEWS RELEASE (EXAMPLE: HONOR ROLL), ETC. Any parent/guardian or eligible student (18 years of age or older), who wants to withhold the release of directory information entirely, or who only wants to withhold the release of directory information to the military, must notify the principal of the school where the student is enrolled, in writing, within (14) days of the student’s first day of school. A request to withhold directory information does not carry over from one school year to the next or from one school to another.
Request to Withhold Release of Directory Information forms are available on the McDowell County School District website and at your child’s school.
Thank you for your time in reading this handbook and following these guidelines. We look forward to a wonderful year working with your child and having you as a supporter and a partner in your child’s education! Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.