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Black Fox Elementary
Parent Handbook
Our Vision
Working Together for Excellence
Mission Statement/ Beliefs
As Black Fox students:
We believe in being proactive.
We will set goals, aim, follow through, and reflect.
We believe in being respectful, responsible, and ready to learn at all times.
We will work together and treat others the way we want to be treated.
We will strive to do our best—nothing less.
This is who we are, what we do, and how Black Fox leads the way!!
Welcome to Black Fox
Welcome to an exciting year at Black Fox! We are a Bradley County Schoolwide Title I School with an enrollment of over 500 students. Our teachers and staff are continually working to provide interesting and exciting ways to enhance your school year. Our Black Fox Scholar/Accelerated Reader theme changes each year and offers a way to promote teamwork and learning. Parents can help their children earn points by reading with them at home for at least 20 minutes every day. You can check your home library for AR books at www.arbookfind.com.
Outstanding programs at Black Fox include: an archery team and club, basketball teams, cheerleaders, band, Enrichment, Family Reading Night, Morning with Mom, Daybreak with Dad, Pancakes for Pastors, Goodies for Grandparents, Black Fox Singers, drama, Beta Club, 4-H Clubs and other activities. Please encourage your children to join in the fun.
Accreditation
Black Fox is accredited by AdvancEd. This certification indicates that our school has met and maintains strict standards beyond what is required by public and/or private schools pertaining to curriculum, teacher preparation, physical facilities, and equipment.
Black Fox employees are caring professionals. All teachers and assistants are highly qualified. You may request from the school further information about teachers and paraprofessionals who instruct your child. Black Fox continues to meet and exceed benchmark expectations. Additional information on federal requirements, the school report card, grade level learning expectations, and teacher and paraprofessional qualifications are accessible through the Bradley County Schools website: www.bradleyschools.org.
There are many ways parents can help, so feel free to offer your time and service. We need you! If you would like to help at school, please contact our volunteer coordinator, Jill Davis, your child’s teacher, or the school office. We are very happy to have you and your child with us at Black Fox.
Black Fox Elementary Academics
Black Fox Elementary uses Tennessee Core Standards for designing high-quality instruction. These academic goals are provided through our website and from teachers. Tennessee Curriculum Standards are available at www.state.tn.us/education.
Preschool
Black Fox offers a preschool program for three and four-year-olds. Please apply for this wonderful program if you have a child of this age by contacting the school office or Family Resource Agency.
Korner Kampus in McDonald offers daycare/preschool for parents who may not qualify for the state program or who need childcare for extended hours.
Parent-Teacher Organization
The Black Fox PTO is a vital part of our school. PTO programs and activities are designed and directed by parents to assist teachers and help provide computers, equipment, supplies and field trips. The involvement and support of parents make our school special. We appreciate our parents and their efforts to enhance the instructional program available to our students. Please get involved and join our PTO!
Parent–Teacher Conferences
Classroom orientation meetings are held at the beginning of every year. Student Led Conferences are conducted after the first report card is issued; a second conference day is scheduled in the second semester. If you wish to have an additional conference with your child’s teacher, please call the school, email, or write a note to make an appointment. Please remember teachers need to be with students when the school day begins and during dismissal. They are not available for conferences during those times.
Visitors
Visitors are welcome and encouraged at Black Fox. When visiting the school please use the main entrance near the gym; all other doors remain locked to maintain safety. Stop by the office to sign in and receive a visitor’s pass. If you need to speak with your child’s teacher, please call to schedule an appointment. If you wish to have lunch with your child, please call the school by 9:00 a.m. so the cafeteria staff can make sure to prepare enough food to serve everyone.
Address and Telephone Information
It is very important that the school has current address and telephone numbers so that parents may be contacted in case of emergency. Please be sure to notify the school immediately if there is a change of your address, telephone number, or emergency contact.
Technology and Internet Policy
Bradley County Schools and Black Fox Elementary provide network services to assist in preparing students for success in life and work in the 21st century. Network privileges include access to the Internet. These privileges are not without responsibilities and Bradley County Schools has developed an acceptable use policy. Students and parents are expected to have read and be aware of the acceptable use policy. Violations will be dealt with appropriately. To view this policy, you can go to www.bradleyschools.org or ask your local school for a copy of the policy. Parents may specifically request that their child(ren) not be provided such access by notifying the building principal in writing.
Media Release Form
Student groups and school successes are often pictured in local newspapers, broadcast news, school website, social media, and the yearbook. Please read and sign the Media Release Form to allow your student to be included.
School Days
School hours are from 7:45 a.m.-2:45 p.m. Students are allowed in the building at 7:00 a.m.; supervision is not available before that time. Students arriving between 7:00 a.m. and 7:40 a.m. must go directly to the gym. Breakfast is served beginning at 7:10 a.m. each morning. Children who arrive at 7:55 are tardy and must get a late slip from the office.
Tardiness
REMEMBER THAT STUDENTS ARE TARDY AT 7:55 A.M. When a student arrives after 7:55, we ask that the parent bring the child to the office to sign in. Five tardies are equal to one unexcused absence.
Attendance
Board Policy: The Bradley County Board of Education believes in the importance of regular school attendance for each student. This establishes the first step toward a successful academic career. The board sets forth the following guidelines for excused absences from school: personal illness, death of immediate family, religious holidays, school-sponsored activities, and personal (doctor or dental appointments which cannot be scheduled at times other than school hours, court appearances, etc.)
Written note required for excused absences: Students who are absent from school must bring a written note explaining the reason for their absence. It must be signed and dated by the parent or guardian. This note must be sent on the first day the student returns to school. School law requires the principal to report to the court any parent or guardian with a child who is absent from school five days during the semester with unexcused absences. Helpful information may be obtained from the State Department of Education by calling 1-888-212-3162 or visiting www.state.tn.ed/education/speced/index/htm.
Early Dismissal
Students will be released to parents or their representative ONLY through the school office. Please send a note to the teacher indicating when you will be arriving to pick up your child. Come to the office to sign the child out. The student will then be called to the office.
Daily Dismissal
Bus riders are dismissed at 2:40 p.m. Car riders are dismissed at 2:45 p.m. and must be picked up in front of the school. All car riders must be picked up by 3:00 p.m. Please remain in your car and drive through rather than parking and attempting to pick your child up as he/she waits on the sidewalk. This slows traffic and prevents our ability to focus on student safety. If you come into the building at the end of the day to volunteer, please exit with your child through the side gym doors.
Students should go directly home after school unless they are involved in a school-approved activity. Students must bring a note from home if they are not going home in their usual manner. When a change involves bus transportation, a note from the parent must be delivered to the bus driver.
Before and After School Services
Boys and Girls Club 472-7301
Korner Kampus 476-5531
YMCA 476-5573
Transportation
Bus Riders: Please remind your child of the importance of good behavior on the bus at all times. Students should not ride a different bus or get off at a different stop unless a note is received from the parent. Students who do not comply with the bus rules will not be allowed to ride the bus.
Car Riders: Parents who pick up students should park in the outer two lanes. Please follow the directions from all car rider monitors. Two lanes of traffic will be directed to pull up and come to a complete stop. Students will then be directed to go to their vehicle. Do not park on the roads around the building. Again, please follow policy and procedure by remaining in your car and driving through to pick up your child.
Severe Weather Procedure
All students must come inside the building and assume the tornado position when we have a severe thunderstorm warning or a tornado warning. No buses will load or leave. Parents who are waiting for car riding students during severe weather warnings are encouraged to come into the school building until the warning has been lifted.
In case of severe weather, please listen to radio stations WBAC (1340 AM), WCLE (1660 AM), WALV (95.3 FM) or watch local news channels 3, 9, or 12 for school closings. During inclement weather, buses will follow this route: high school, middle school, elementary.
Behavior Expectations
It is our goal that students develop appropriate social behavior within the school setting. Together the parents, faculty, and staff of Black Fox Elementary will encourage acceptable behavior for all students. Appropriate rules have been established, and students are expected to follow them.
Out-of-Zone Policy
Students who live outside the Black Fox School zone are welcome to attend if space is available, parents provide prompt transportation, and students comply with school rules. Parents should notify the office of out-of-zone status. Students with persistent behavior issues will be required to attend their zoned school.
Dress Code
Encourage your children to dress appropriately for school. Please wear tennis shoes on P.E. days. No hats or skate shoes are allowed. Some advertising, words, and pictures on clothing are inappropriate for the school setting. Shirts must cover backs and stomachs. Every coat, jacket, and sweater should be marked with your child’s first and last name.
Prohibited Items
Drugs and Alcohol: Drugs, look-alike drugs, tobacco, and alcohol are prohibited from being used, possessed, received, or transferred on the school campus.
Weapons: It is unlawful for anyone to possess or carry a weapon on the bus, school property, or any other property owned, used, or operated by any board of education, school, or public education institution.
Food Items: Chewing gum is never allowed on campus. Soft drinks from home are only allowed on field trips. Many classrooms are “Peanut Free Zones” due to allergies. Food intended to be shared in classes must have ingredients listed.
Toys: Students should not bring toys, electronic games (DS, iPods, etc.), or trading cards to school. These items can be easily lost and are a distraction to the learning environment. Teachers may allow certain items for “show and tell” or “fun days;” however, please use caution when sending such items. The school is not held responsible for lost or stolen items of this nature.
Telephone Policy
With teacher permission, students may use the school telephone. Students must have a permission form signed by the parent before bringing a cell phone to school. Students who bring cell phones to school MUST leave them OFF and in their backpack unless permission to use is given by a teacher or administrator.
Workbook and Materials Fees
School textbooks are furnished by Bradley County Schools. A student is responsible for any books lost or damaged, including library books. There is a $30 workbook and materials fee. This fee should be paid the first month of school. If you are unable to pay this fee, please contact the school office.
Grading Scale
A (4) 93-100 Excellent; B (3) 85-92 Above Average; C (2) 75-84 Average; D (1) 70-74 Below Average; F (0) Below 70, Failing
Accelerated Reader Testing Policies
· Students must read or have books read to them prior to approaching the computer for testing.
· Students may only enter their own account.
· Once your child has learned to read, they should read the questions and respond on their own at the computer. If your child comes to a word he/she does not know, individual words may be read aloud to them by you.
· Once students have entered the test on the computer, at no time should a book be opened for review during the testing session. All review should take place prior to coming to the computer.
These policies are provided to ensure a fair and equitable approach for all students participating in the Accelerated Reader Program. We urge your cooperation and compliance with these policies.
Food Service
School breakfasts and lunches are free at Black Fox this year. Your child will be given an account number for milk, and ice cream purchases. It is suggested that you send money to last two to four weeks.
Current prices are:
Visitor Breakfast: $2 Visitor Lunch: $ 3.75
Milk $ .45 Ice Cream $ .50
Every child will be given a form at the beginning of the school year for parents to fill out to verify household income. Only one form for each family needs to be completed. These forms may be filled in online at www.bradleyschools.org. Black Fox receives federal funds for every household that qualifies, so PLEASE RETURN THIS FORM! Although student meals are free, there is a cost to purchase ice cream, extra portions, or extra milk. Students who bring their lunch to school are not allowed to bring soft drinks from home.
Health Services
Parents will be notified if illness or injury occurs. Students who take prescribed medication must have a “Parent Medication Consent Form” on file before medication can be brought to school. Medication must be in the original prescription bottle and be properly labeled by a registered pharmacist as prescribed by law.
The school cannot remove splinters or ticks or treat old wounds, cuts, or diseases. TeleDoc, a partnership with Erlanger Hospital, may be utilized through our school nurse if permission has been signed.
Bradley County Board of Education Policy of Communicable Diseases: No student with a communicable disease, or who comes from a home where such prevails, will enter or remain in school except by certificate from the attending physician or the County Health Department. Conditions for readmitting students with diseases other than identified as communicable are:
Impetigo: To be readmitted when skin is cleared. Ringworm of the scalp: May be readmitted if under treatment and skull cap is worn. Pinkeye: To be readmitted when eyes are clear or upon a statement from a physician saying the condition is no longer contagious. Vincent’s Infection (Trench Mouth): To be readmitted upon physician’s statement that the student is cured. Head Lice: Students must be treated and lice and nits removed. One day missed from school for this reason will be excused, but any days thereafter will be unexcused.
Nondiscrimination Policy for Students and Employees
It is the policy of the Bradley County School System not to discriminate on the basis of sex, national origin, creed, age, marital status, or disability in its educational programs, activities, or employment policies as required by Title VI and Vii on the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendment, Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
Students and employees shall be provided a learning and working environment free from sexual, racial, ethnic, and religious discrimination/harassment. It shall be a violation of this policy for any employee or any student to discriminate against or harass a student through disparaging conduct or communication that is sexual, racial, ethnic, or religious in nature.
Inquiries regarding compliance with the nondiscrimination policy may be directed to the principal, complaint manager, or the office of the director of schools. (Refer to policy 6.304, 6.305, 5.500, and memorandum of agreement: Teacher’s Contract Section IG-Grievance Procedure.)
Es ilegas discriminar en contra do cualquier persona debido a su raza, color, credo, religion, sexo, edad,incapacidad u origen, en el recutamiento, empleo, al despedir, promover o cualquier condicion, termino o privilege de empleo.
Tennessee Department of Education
Further information regarding Tennessee Public Schools may be found at the State Department website: www.state.tn.us/education.
No student’s name, address or phone number will be released to a military recruiter.
Parent Involvement Policy/Plan
GOAL 1
Black Fox has a written parent policy.
· A diverse group of parents, teachers, and will meet periodically to update our Parent Plan.
· The plan is located on the Black Fox website and in the Black Fox Handbook.
· Names of key contact persons are provided for more information.
· Parents will serve on the School Improvement Team.
· The schoolwide Parent Compact will be reviewed and updated regularly with input from parents and staff.
· Parents will be informed of their right to be involved in the development of this plan.
GOAL 2
Black Fox School will encourage effective communication and relationships among stakeholders.
· Meetings are planned in the morning and evening.
· Parent Orientation is held annually to share Title I information, the rights of parents to be involved, and AYP results.
· Black Fox provides parents with opportunities to give suggestions and help make decisions about the education of their children.
· Communication with parents is in an understandable language.
· A system-wide calendar is shared in a student folder and on the county website.
· School calendars are sent home monthly and posted on the school website.
· A Black Fox handbook on the website and as a hardcopy provides school information and parent rights and responsibilities.
· Teachers send home weekly folders to give parents up-to-date feedback on grades and behavior.
· Parent Portal provides parents with student grades.
· Teachers are available for meetings that parents may call the office to schedule.
· Connect Ed is used to help keep parents informed of school events.
· A school sign provides more information of upcoming events.
· The Black Fox TSIPP is displayed on the school website and parents may comment on its content.
GOAL 3
Black Fox will coordinate all available services to meet student and parent needs.
· Annual meetings determine the effectiveness of Head Start for Black Fox Students.
· Black Fox provides a place for Head Start classes and parent training. All parents are invited.
· Black Fox integrates the Head Start program into the Black Fox Family.
· ELL services strive to include parents with limited English proficiency by providing translated notes, documents, and interpreters as needed.
· Economically disadvantaged parents are encouraged to participate in all school activities and before, after, and during school.
· The school counselor coordinates with Hiwassee Mental Health Services and the Department of Human Services.
· The Creating Christmas Memories Program provides Christmas gifts for needy students.
· Before and after school programs for economically disadvantaged students are provided by Big City University.
· After school programs for all students are provided by The Y and The Boys and Girls Club.
GOAL 4
Black Fox administrators, teachers, and staff will train parents in ways to improve student achievement.
· Monthly newsletters (Home School Connection) will provide parenting tips and ways to improve student achievement.
· Parent attendance at meetings is encouraged by sometimes including food or child care.
· District will provide System-Wide Calendar and Parent Portal to assist parents in helping children.
· Staff development activities include reminders of the value of parent involvement and the importance of communication.
· District will provide translated school information.
· The school will direct parents to the website where state curriculum standards are posted.
· Black Fox will provide parents with ways to work with children to improve student achievement.
· Materials and training will be provided to help parents work with students and foster parent involvement.
· Black Fox will provide parents with information to help understand test scores and student proficiency levels.
· Standardized test results and directions on how to make sense of the results are provided by the state for parents.
· Federal Projects Director will meet with principals and school planning teams to provide expertise and training in developing school level parent activities to enhance student achievement.
· Parents may meet regularly with teachers and other school personnel to discuss their child’s education. School staff will respond to any parent concerns as soon as possible.
Goal 5
Black Fox School will produce a School Improvement Plan
*For any comments or concerns with this plan, please contact Jill Davis, Parent Involvement Coordinator at Black Fox Elementary. 478-8800.
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