Elementary Handbook 2014-15

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Whitfield County Schools
Elementary Handbook
2014-2015

Elementary Handbook
Table of Contents
Vision, Mission, and Beliefs Statement...........................................5
Non---Negotiable Practices for High Student
Performance..6
Goals........................................................................................... 7
2013-2014 School
Calendar.8
Testing Calendars.........................................................................8
Whitfield County Schools Directory..............................................11
Whitfield County Board of Education...................................................11

Whitfield County Schools Central Level Administration........................11
Whitfield County Schools Central Office..............................................11
Elementary Schools...........................................................................13
Middle Schools..................................................................................14
High Schools.....................................................................................15
Curriculum Information...............................................................16
Accidents................................................................................... 17
After School Care........................................................................17
Allergy....................................................................................... 18
Attendance................................................................................. 18
Staf.................................................................................................18
Students...........................................................................................19
Bullying
....21
Buses......................................................................................... 22
Cafeteria.................................................................................... 22
Central Enrollment......................................................................23
Child Abuse................................................................................23
Code of Ethics............................................................................. 24
Communication With Parents.......................................................24
Counseling.................................................................................25
Curriculum Areas........................................................................25
English Language Arts and Reading....................................................25

Mathematics.....................................................................................26
Science.............................................................................................26
Social Studies...................................................................................26
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Discipline Code...........................................................................27
Dress Code.................................................................................27
Student.............................................................................................27
EIP............................................................................................. 28
Emergency Preparedness...........................................................29
English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)............................32
Exceptional Student Services (ESS)..............................................34
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).......................34
Field Trips..................................................................................37
Flag Displays and Pledge of Allegiance.........................................38
Gifted Education (ALPHA)............................................................38
Grades and Report Cards.............................................................38
Guest Speakers..........................................................................40
Homework.................................................................................. 40
Hospital/Homebound Services.....................................................40
Immunizations............................................................................40
Infinite Campus..........................................................................41
Instructional Materials................................................................41
Instructional Minutes..................................................................41
Internet...................................................................................... 41
Employees Internet Policy..................................................................42

Students...........................................................................................42
Lesson Plans..............................................................................43
Lice Procedures..........................................................................43
Measures of Academic Process (MAP)..........................................44
Media Center..............................................................................44
Medications................................................................................ 45
Money Collection........................................................................45
Nondiscrimination Statement......................................................46
Operations.................................................................................46
Placement/Promotion/Retention..................................................47
Professional Learning.................................................................48
Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)..............................48
Pyramid of Interventions/SST......................................................48
School Closings........................................................................... 49
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School Improvement Plans..........................................................49
Section 504................................................................................50
Searches....................................................................................50
Sex Education............................................................................. 50
Student Learning Objective (SLO).
...52
Smoking/Use of Tobacco Products................................................51
Permanent Record.............................................................................52
Transfer of Student Records...............................................................53
Substitutes................................................................................. 54
Teacher Evaluations....................................................................54
Testing....................................................................................... 54
Textbooks................................................................................... 55
TransAct..................................................................................... 55
Transporting Students.................................................................56
Units.......................................................................................... 56
Visitors...................................................................................... 56
Volunteers.................................................................................. 56

Vision, Mission, and Beliefs Statement
Vision
We envision a responsive school district that is focused on students and that is valued and respected by the
community.
Mission
Our mission is to increase student learning by providing students and staff with meaningful, challenging, and
engaging educational experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
Beliefs
1. We believe in our school district having an innovative unified focus resulting in it being responsive to the
needs of students, parents, and the community at large.
2. We believe that our core business is providing students with engaging,
challenging, and meaningful work.
3. We believe that the role of the teacher is leader and designer of
engaging, challenging and meaningful learning experiences for students.
4. We believe that all of our personnel, parents, and other community
members are vital to the education of our students whose attention and commitment must be earned.
5. We believe that all of our students, personnel, and parents deserve a
safe, inviting, non-threatening learning environment where they are
treated with dignity and respect.
Non-Negotiable Practices for High Student

Performance
The faculty and staff of the Whitfield County School District are committed to using
effective instructional practices that are non-negotiable in every classroom. Our goal is
that all students in the Whitfield County School District will be successful because they
will achieve at their highest level. To meet this goal:
We will teach the Georgia Performance Standards and CCGPS with fidelity by:
Designing lessons aligned to the Georgia Performance Standards and CCGPS

Identifying key concepts in the language of the standards
Using essential questions to connect instruction to the standard
Asking students to explain the standards in their own words
We will monitor the progress of our students while working collaboratively using the Data Team
Process by:
Developing formative assessments that are explicitly aligned to standards

Collecting, charting, and analyzing student work on a regular basis
Identifying students who are not meeting standards, meeting standards, or exceeding standards
Adjusting/Differentiating instruction based on assessment results
Using a variety of instructional strategies to address student needs
All teaching and learning activities will reflect a shared understanding of what students should know,
do, and understand and will be built around a common framework for instruction that consists of:
Opening -Activating strategies centered on the standard, element(s), and essential question
Mini-lesson -Modeling while referencing standards and key vocabulary
Using exemplars (examples of student work that meets or exceeds the standard)
Work Period -Engaging students using performance tasks
Using higher-order thinking questions to probe student understanding
Closing -Summarizing strategies to assess student understanding
Our classroom environment will be built on:
Strong student-teacher relationships based on the school districts core values

The social-emotional needs of our students
Established rituals and routines
Evidence of the common framework for instruction
Evidence of student work that reflects the Georgia Performance Standards and CCGPS
Our communication with parents will be:
Frequent, clear, and consistent

Focused on building a partnership with parents and community for improving student performance
Goals
Developing a focus on students
Throughout the school district there is a clear focus on students and on the quality of the work provided to
students- work that students find interesting, challenging, and satisfying and that results in students learning what
is expected by schools, parents, and the community.
Patterns of Engagement
Nearly all classes are highly engaged, and when they are not, teachers make every possible effort to redesign the
pattern of activity in the classroom so that more students are engaged.
Student Achievement
Parents, teachers, the principal, and the board of education, as well as others who have a stake in the performance
of the schools, are satisfied with the level and type of learning that are occurring.
Content and Substance

Teachers and administrators have a clear, consistent, and shared understanding of what students are expected to
know and to be able to do at various grade levels. This understanding is consistent with such official statements of
expectations as state standards and standards established by local boards. Teachers and administrators also have a
reasonable assessment of student interest in the topics suggested by these expectations and standards.
A Safe Environment
Students and parents feel that the school as well as each classroom is a physically and psychologically safe place:
success is expected and failure is understood as a necessary part of learning, there is mutual respect between and
among faculty and students, and the fear of harm or harassment from fellow students and demeaning comments
from teachers is negligible.
Staff Engagement
Teachers, administrators, and support staff employed by the school district are satisfied with their work and they
understand how their roles contribute to the districts direction.

2014
2015Calendar
MondayWednesday, August 46..............................Pre-Planning for Teachers

Thursday, August 7 ....................................................First Day of School for Students
Monday, September 1 ................................................Labor Day Holiday
MondayTuesday, October 1314 .............................Staff and Student Holiday
Wednesday, October 22.............................................Early Dismissal (Parent Conference/Professional Learning)
MondayFriday November 2428 ..............................Thanksgiving Holidays
Friday, December 19 ..................................................Early Dismissal (Parent Conferences/Professional Learning)
Monday, Dec. 22Friday, January 2...........................Christmas Holidays for Staff and Students
Monday, January 5.. ....Professional Learning Day for Teachers
Tuesday, January 6 ....................................................Resume Classes after Christmas Holidays
Monday, January 19 ...................................................Staff and Student Holiday (Martin Luther King Birthday)
MondayFriday, February 1620 ...............................Staff and Student Holiday
Thursday, March 12....................................................Early Dismissal (Parent Conference/Professional Learning)
Friday, March 13 ................................................. Staff and Student Holiday or Inclement Weather Makeup Day
MondayFriday, March 30April 3 .............................Spring Holidays
Friday, May 22............................................................Early Dismissal (Last Day of School for Students 176 days)
Monday, May 25 .........................................................Memorial Day Holiday
TuesdayWednesday, May 2627 .............................Post Planning for Teachers
Elementary Schools Four 9-Week Grading Periods

Nine-Week
Grading Period Ends
Friday, Oct. 10
Friday, Oct. 17
Thursday, Nov. 13
Friday, Dec. 19
Friday, Jan. 9
3rd
Thursday, Feb. 5
Tuesday, March 17
Tuesday, March 24
4th
Tuesday, April 28
Friday, May 22
End of Year
1st
2
nd
Progress Reports
Issued
Tuesday, Sept. 9
Middle Schools Six 6-Week Grading Periods
1st
Six-Week
Grading Period Ends
Friday, Sept. 19
Report Card/Progress
Report Dates
Thursday, Sept. 25
2nd
Friday, Oct. 31
Thursday, Nov. 6
3rd
Friday, Dec. 19
Thursday, Jan. 8
4th
Friday, Feb. 13
Thursday, Feb. 26
5th
Friday, Apr. 10
Thursday, Apr. 16
th
Friday, May 22
End of Year
Report Card Dates
Grading Periods
High Schools
Semester Ends
1
st
Friday, Dec. 19
Progress Reports Issued

Thursday, Sept. 25
Semester Report Cards

Thursday, Jan. 8
Thursday, Nov. 6
2nd
Friday, May 22
Thursday, Feb. 26
Thursday, April 16
End of Year
2014-2015 Assessment Calendar

The purposes of the Georgia Student Assessment Program are to measure student achievement of the state mandated
curriculum, to identify students failing to achieve mastery of content, to provide teachers with diagnostic information, and to
assist school systems in identifying strengths and weaknesses in order to establish priorities in planning educational
programs. Below is a list of dates when Whitfield County students will take national, state, and system assessments during the
2014-2015 school year.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ASSESSMENT DATES

Aug. 07 May 08
Aug. 11 Aug. 22
Aug. 25 Sep. 12
Aug. 25 Sep. 12
Sep. 02 Mar. 27
Sep. 08 - Sept. 19
Sep. 15 Oct. 03
Dec. 01 Dec. 19
Dec. 01 Dec. 19
Jan. 20 Mar. 03
Mar. 09 Mar. 27
Mar. 09 Mar. 27
Apr. 13 Apr. 24
May 11 May 22
TBD
Georgia Kindergarten Inventory of Developing Skills (GKIDS)

Student Learning Objectives Pre-Test
Measures of Academic Progress (1st window)
AIMSweb (1st window)
Georgia Alternate Assessment (GAA) Window
Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT)
Map for Primary Grades (1st window)
Measures of Academic Progress & Map for Primary Grades (2nd window)-Optional
AIMSweb (2nd window)

ACCESS for English Language Learners (ELLs) Window
Measures of Academic Progress & Map for Primary Grades (3rd window)
AIMSweb (3rd window)
Georgia Milestones
Student Learning Objectives Post-Test
Georgia Milestones retest
Kindergarten
Grades K-5
Grades 3-5
Grades K, 3-5
Grade 4
Grades K-2
Grades K-5
Grades K-5
Grades K-5
Grades 3-5
Grades K-5
Grades 3 & 5
MIDDLE SCHOOL ASSESSMENT DATES

Aug. 11 Aug. 22
Aug. 25 Sep. 12
Aug. 25 Sep. 12
Sep. 02 Mar. 27
Oct. 20 Oct. 31
Nov. 03 Nov. 14
Dec. 01 Dec. 19
Dec. 01 Dec. 19
Jan. 20 Mar. 03
Feb. 02 Feb. 13
Feb. 23 Mar. 06
Mar. 9 Mar. 27
Mar. 9 Mar. 27
Apr. 13 April 24
May 11 May 22

Measures of Academic Progress (1st window)
AIMSweb (1st window)
Measures of Academic Progress (2nd window) - Optional
AIMSweb (2nd window)
Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) (3rd window)
AIMSweb (3rd window)
Georgia Milestones
2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook
Grades 6-8
Grades 6-8
Grades
Grades
Grades
Grades
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
Grades
Grades
Grades
Grades
6-8
6-8
6-8
6-8
Grades 6-8
Grades 6-8
10
TBD
HIGH SCHOOL ASSESSMENT DATES
Grades 6-8
11
Aug. 11 Aug. 22
Sep. 02 Mar. 27
Sep. 08 Sept. 12
Sep. 24
Oct. 15 ONLY
Nov. 03 07
Dec. 08 12
Dec. 15 - 19
Jan. 06 Jan. 16
Jan. 20 Mar. 03
Feb. 25
Mar. 16 Mar. 20
Apr. 30 May 13
May 04 May 15
May 14 May 22
Jun. 17
Jul. 06 Jul. 10

Georgia High School Graduation Test (GHSGT) Fall retest
Georgia High School Writing Test (GHSWT)
Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) first
time 10th graders
Georgia High School Graduation Test (GHSGT) Winter retest

Georgia Milestones
Georgia High School Writing Test (GHSWT) Spring retest
Georgia High School Graduation Test (GHSGT)
Georgia Milestones
Advanced Placement (AP) Exam Window
Georgia High School Writing Test (GHSWT) Summer retest
Grades 9-12
Grade 11
Grade 11
Grade 10
Grades
Grades
Grades
Grades
9-12
9-12
9-12
9-12
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
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Whitfield County Schools Directory

Whitfield County Board of Education
Louis Fordham, Chairman
Bill Worley, Vice-Chairman
Thomas Barton
Rodney Locke
Tony Stanley
Whitfield County Schools Central Level Administration

Judy Gilreath
Karey Williams
Wanda Phillips
Rhonda Yim
Programs
Audrey Williams
Daniel Theis
Mike Ewton
Superintendent
Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction
Chief Officer of Student Support Services
Chief Officer of HR, Professional Learning/Federal
Chief Officer of Assessment/Accountability and Technology
Chief Officer of Finance
Chief Officer of Operations
Whitfield County Schools Central Office

1306 S. Thornton Ave.
Dalton, GA 30720
Phone (706) 217 6780
Fax (706) 217-6755
Superintendents Office
Carolyn Weaver
Administrative Assistant
Teaching and Learning

Kathy Mashburn
Merry Boggs
Michelle Caldwell
Tom Appelman
Meg Baker
Support Services
Tena Sheppard
Chris Parker
Student Support Services Director
Sarah Hoskins
Exceptional Student Services Director
Angie Brown
School Nutrition Director
Ruthie Rule
Exceptional Student Services Coordinator
Kathy Reed
Exceptional Student Services Coordinator
Lynn Keener
Secretary
Human Resources/Professional Learning/Federal Programs
Benita Johnson
Elementary Curriculum Director
Middle School Curriculum Director
High School Curriculum Director
ESOL Coordinator
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Tena Ewton
Jonathan Willard
Lorijo Calhoun
Freida Talley
Marrene Gentry
Selena Weed
David Thacker
Pattie Beason
Ginger Stafford
Infinite Vision Specialist

Professional Development/Title II-A Director
Federal Programs Director
Federal Programs Secretary
Elementary Instructional Specialist
Elementary Instructional Specialist
Middle School Instructional Specialist
Certification Specialist
Benefits Specialist
Testing/Assessment/Technology
Amy Parker
Jim Fugate
Technology Director
Pam Pettyjohn
Instructional Technology Coordinator
Betsy Clem
Instructional Technology Specialist
Rose Miller
Technology Secretary
Finance
Kelly Johnson Coon
Manda Clark
Rachel Morehead
Sherrie Mullinax
Cindy Ownby
Finance Director
Payroll Supervisor
Payroll Specialist
Accounting Specialist
Accounts Payable Specialist
Operations
Randy Jones
Rick Holsomback
Karen Mitchell
Maintenance Director
Transportation Director
Assistant Director of Transportation
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Whitfield County Schools Directory

Whitfield County Schools Central Office
1306 S. Thornton Ave.
Dalton, GA 30720
Phone (706) 217 6780
Fax (706) 217-6755
Elementary Schools
o Antioch Elementary Tracie Demspey, Principal
1819 Riverbend Rd.
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 278 7550 / Fax: (706) 226 9674
o Beaverdale Elementary Cheri Mahan, Principal
9196 Highway 2
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 275 4414 / Fax: (706) 259 2562
o Cedar Ridge Elementary - Meleia Bridenstine, Principal
285 Cedar Ridge Rd.
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 712-8400 / Fax: (706) 277-7249
o Cohutta Elementary Cindy Dobbins, Principal
254 Wolfe St.
Cohutta, GA 30710
Phone: (706) 694 8812 / Fax: (706) 694 8390
o Dawnville Elementary Sherri Travisano, Principal
1380 Dawnville Rd.
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 259 3914 / Fax: (706) 259 7462
o Dug Gap Elementary Mandy Locke, Principal
2032 Dug Gap Rd.
Dalton, GA 30720
Phone: (706) 226 3919 / Fax: (706) 226 - 9753
o Eastside Elementary Ben Hunt, Principal
102 Hill Rd.
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 278 3074 / Fax: (706) 226 - 9951
o New Hope Elementary Carla Maret, Principal
1175 New Hope Rd.
Dalton, GA 30720
Phone: (706) 673 3180 / Fax: (706) 673 - 3182
o Pleasant Grove Elementary Richard Knox, Principal
2725 Cleveland Rd.
Dalton, GA 30721
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Phone: (706) 259 3920 / Fax: (706) 259 - 6271

Tunnel Hill Elementary Connie Kopcsak, Principal
203 East School St.
Tunnel Hill, GA 30755
Phone: (706) 673 4550 / Fax: (706) 673 4956
Valley Point Elementary Doris McLemore, Principal
3798 S. Dixie Rd, SE
Dalton, GA 30720
Phone: (706) 277 3259 / Fax: (706) 277 - 7721
Varnell Elementary Lisa Jones, Principal
3900 Cleveland Rd.
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 694 3471 / Fax: (706) 694 - 3289
Westside Elementary Tami Dodd, Principal
1815 Utility Rd.
Rocky Face, GA
Phone: (706) 673 6531 / Fax: (706) 673 5556
Middle Schools
o Eastbrook Middle Greg Bailey, Principal
1382 Eastbrook Drive
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 278 6135 / Fax: (706) 226 9859
o New Hope Middle Joe Barnett, Principal
1325 New Hope Rd.
Dalton, GA 30720
Phone: (706) 673 2295 / Fax: (706) 673 2086
o North Whitfield Middle Andrea Bradley, Principal
3264 Cleveland Rd.
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 259 3381 / Fax: (706) 259 8168
o Valley Point Middle Robyn Baggett, Principal
3796 S. Dixie Rd., SE
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 277 9662 / Fax: (706) 277 7035
o Westside Middle Angela Hargis, Principal
580 LaFayette Rd., SW
Rocky Face, GA 30740
Phone: (706) 673 2611 / Fax: (706) 673 5349
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High Schools
o Coahulla Creek High School- Dr. Stan Steward, Principal
3361 Crow Road
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 694-4900 / Fax: (706) 694-5033
o Crossroads Donna Thornton Harris, Director
2818 Airport Road
Dalton, GA 30720
Phone: (706) 271-2495 / Fax: (706) 271-2496
o Northwest Georgia College & Career Academy
David Moeller, CEO
Jay Williams, Principal
2300 Maddox Chapel Rd.
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 876 3600 / Fax: (706) 876-3602
o Northwest High Britt Adams, Principal
1651 Tunnel Hill Varnell Rd.
Tunnel Hill, GA 30755
Phone: (706) 673 6533 / Fax: (706) 673 7098
o Phoenix Center Fred Toney, Principal
2300 Maddox Chapel Road
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 876-3600 / Fax: (706) 876-3602
o Southeast High Deni Pendley, Principal
1954 Riverbend Rd.
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 226 2753 / Fax: (706) 278 - 3433
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Curriculum Information
Common Core Georgia Performance Standards
The Common Core Georgia Performance Standards clearly define what is expected of
Whitfield County students at each grade level. The clear goals set by these educational
standards help teachers ensure students have the skills and knowledge to be successful
beyond the classroom. Standards do not tell teachers how to teach, but do guide their
lesson designs to include the knowledge and skills students need to succeed. Standards
help teachers customize work to provide the best teaching and learning experiences for
their students. Standards also help students and parents see clear and realistic goals for
success.
Common standards shared across the nation help ensure that Whitfield County students
are receiving a consistently high-quality education from school-to-school and state-tostate. The Common Core standards are designed to be rigorous and relevant to the real
world and to reflect the knowledge and skills our young people need for success in
college and their careers. Whitfield County teachers have been trained on the standards
and understand what this rigor will look like in their classrooms. The standards
emphasize development of critical thinking and problem solving skills in students to help
them reflect more deeply and encourage profound learning in all subject areas. In the
classroom, work aligned to the Common Core standards will push students to collaborate,
which trains them to be excellent communicators who speak and write effectively.
The Common Core standards also include an integrated model of literacy, increasing text
complexity and the use of technology to enhance learning in all content areas. Math
students delve deeper into the process skills by engaging in authentic tasks. Common
Core standards raise the bar for students in all grade levels, requiring teachers, students,
and parents to work together to embrace the challenges of this curriculum.
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Accidents
Staff
All accidents involving staff that occurs on a Whitfield County School campus should be
reported to the school or building administrator. Staff will be advised of the proper
procedure if it is necessary to seek medical attention.
Students
An accident form must be completed immediately online by the teacher or the principals
designee via the Electronic Forms Manager each time a student is hurt on school
property. When an accident occurs, the teacher should seek medical assistance from the
school nurse and notify the front office. If the school nurse is not available, the teacher
should seek assistance from the administrator and the teacher should contact the parent
as quickly as possible. If the injury does not require immediate medical attention and the
parent asks if his/her child should be picked up, the parent should make that
determination.
Accidents that require an injury report should be sent to the Director of Safety and
Security.
After School Care

Whitfield County Elementary Schools offer various after school care for students in
grades kindergarten through five. Please contact individual elementary school campuses
for specific details. Cost of the program is $5 per day and the program ends at 6:00 p.m.
After school care services must be pre-paid the week before care is needed. For more
information on extended day, contact the individual elementary school.
AFTER SCHOOL WORKERS WHO ARE NOT CURRENT WCS

EMPLOYEES:
o Person completes After School Program Application
o Principal finds the application via Applitrack and sends
Recommendation to HR
o HR sends the needed paperwork, fingerprinting instructions
included, to the email address listed on the application to
applicant
o Applicant or school faxes/brings a copy of their drivers license
and SS card to HR.
o When HR receives all forms, SS and DL information and
fingerprinting results, we will send an email to the principal that
the applicant has been approved.
**After five years, they would need to be fingerprinted again.
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Allergy
Students with allergies need to contact the School Nurse as soon as possible. Parents need
to complete required paperwork that can be found in the campus office.
Attendance
Staf
It is the personal responsibility of every Whitfield County Schools employee to maintain
good attendance. When a staff member will not be at work as scheduled, it is his/her
responsibility to notify the immediate supervisor (principal or designee in the case of
teachers and paraprofessionals) and enter the absence in AESOP.
Personal Leave- Teachers and paraprofessionals may take a maximum of three personal
leave days per school year. Personal leave days are counted as part of the sick leave days
teachers receive each year. Personal leave should not be requested on the last day prior to
or the first day back from a holiday break without prior approval from the
superintendent. The Personal Leave Request Form (On Forms Manager) should be filled
out and submitted electronically for principal approval. The request should be filed at
Central Office at least three days prior to leave. Emergency personal leave may be
requested in a shorter time period.
Earned Sick Leave:
It is the practice of the Whitfield County School District to allow employees to earn sick
leave benefits at the following rate:
09 month employees: 11.75
Sick leave days (for any year) are earned, not allocated, based on the number of days
worked from the start date through the remainder of the year.
Professional Leave- Teachers can request a professional leave day if attending a
conference, workshop, or training. An electronic professional leave form (located on
Electronic Forms Manager) should be completed, and then sent to the appropriate central
level employee for approval. If requesting reimbursement for the professional leave day
(travel, food, lodging, etc.), a copy of the form is turned in after the conference along
with the appropriate expense statement form. Meals are not reimbursed for local
professional learning. All forms for reimbursement are located on Sharepoint.
Leaving Campus Before leaving campus during regular school hours, all staff members
should check with an administrator or an administrators designee and sign out. At no
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time should a staff member take a student off campus without the written consent of a
parent or an administrator.
Students
Students are expected to be in school each day unless excused for one of the reasons
listed below.
1. Personal illness that would endanger the students health or the health of
others.
2. Serious illness or death in the students immediate family.
3. Special and recognized religious holidays observed by the students faith.
4. Mandated absence by order of governmental agencies, e.g., court order or preinduction physical for the armed forces.
5. Conditions rendering school attendance impossible or hazardous to health or
safety.
6. A period not to exceed one day is allowed for registering to vote or voting in a
public election.
7. Approved college visitation in accordance with high school regulations.
8. Working at an electoral poll site during an election.
9. Student trips deemed educational by the Assistant Superintendent.
Parent notes may be accepted for up to 10 absences in a school year and must be turned
in 5 days after the absence. After 10 absences, parents will be required to provide written
medical excuses or documentation. However, in cases when a students absences become
excessive and are addressed through an attendance intervention (i.e. Attendance Review
Team, Educational Improvement Team or School Social Work Referral) absences will
only be excused by written medical documentation.
Students shall be counted present when they are serving as pages of the Georgia General
Assembly and/or while representing the school in an activity approved by the school
and/or Board of Education. Students in foster care shall be counted present when they
attend court proceedings relating to their foster care.
A student whose parent or legal guardian is in military service in the U. S. armed forces
or National Guard, and such parent has been called to duty for or is on leave from
overseas deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting will be granted up to 5
days of excused absences per school year to visit with his or her parent prior to the
parent's deployment or during the parent's leave.
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Individual students who have emergencies to arise that necessitate their absence from
school for a portion of the school day must have been present for one half of the
instructional day in order to be included in attendance counts.
An unlawful (unexcused) absence is one not permitted under the Compulsory School
Attendance Law (20-2-690) and policies of the Whitfield County School Board.
Any combination of (5) five unexcused tardies / late check-ins or unexcused early
checkouts will be considered one (1) unexcused absence. If a student has excessive
absences or tardies, the school social worker may refer the student and parent(s) to the
Department of Family and Children Services, Educational Improvement Team (EIT) or
the appropriate court when sufficient legal causes for these absences or tardies do not
exist. Corrective measures may be taken against the student and/or parent(s).
When a high school student has more than (6) six unexcused absences per semester in a
class meeting fewer than 90 days (6 block days), the student will not receive credit for
that course. If a high school student has more than (10) ten unexcused absences a class
meeting more than 90 days (year long courses) the student will not receive credit for that
course. For TAADRA purposes, when a student has 10 unexcused days in a school year
he/she will be ineligible to receive his/her Certificate of Attendance or will have their
drivers license or permit revoked. Any student who is absent one half day is considered
absent the full day. The student must be present for at least l/2 of the high school class
period to be considered present for the class. The student and/or parent/guardian may
request the school principal or designee to review the case if there are extenuating
circumstances. Upon denial, it can be appealed to the Superintendent or the
Superintendents designee.
According to the State Board of Education rules, a student is truant who during
the school calendar year has more than five unexcused absences.
The school will contact you in writing by mail when your child has 5, 10 and 15
total absences each school year.
Parents may be requested to attend an Attendance Review Team (ART) meeting
when students reach 5 unexcused or 10 total absences. Parents who do not attend
the ART meeting will be referred to the school social
worker. Parents may also be asked to provide a written medical documentation to
excuse future absences due to illness.
Upon review of the students attendance, the social worker may refer the student
and family on to the community Education Improvement Team (EIT), the
Department of Family and Children Services or the Whitfield County Juvenile or
Magistrate Court.
The ART and EIT process is ongoing and may not start over each year. If the
intervention was held the previous school year, the family may not attend an ART
or EIT the following year. However, the family will be notified by the school
social worker of the continued attendance concerns.
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Georgia Compulsory School Attendance Law
CODE SECTION --20-2-690-1.
(a) Every parent, guardian, or other person residing within this state having control or
charge of any child or children between their sixth and sixteenth birthdays shall
enroll and send such child or children to a public school, a private school, or a
home study program that meets the requirements for a public school, a private
school, or a home study program;
(b) Any parent, guardian, or other person residing in this state who has control or
charge of a child or children and who shall violate this Code section shall be
guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof, shall be subject to a fine not
to exceed $100.00 or imprisonment not to exceed 30 days, or both, at the
discretion of the court having jurisdiction. Each days absence from school in
violation of this part shall constitute a separate offense.
Bullying
The Board of Education believes that all students can learn better in a safe school
environment. Behavior that infringes on the safety of students will not be tolerated.
Bullying, as the term is defined in Georgia law, of a student by another student is strictly
prohibited. Such prohibition shall be included in the Student Code of Conduct for all
schools within the school system.
Bullying is defined as follows: An act which occurs on school property, on school
vehicles, at school bus stops, or at school related functions or activities, or by use of data
or software that is accessed through a computer, computer system, computer network, or
other electronic technology of a local school system, that is:
1. Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person, when
accompanied by an apparent present ability to do so;
2. Any intentional display of force such as would give the victim reason to fear
or expect immediate bodily harm; or
3. Any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, which a reasonable person
would
a. Causes another person substantial physical harm within the meaning of
Code Section 16-5-23.1 or visible bodily harm as such term is defined in
Code Section 16-5-23.1;
b. Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student's education;
c. Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or
threatening educational environment; or
d. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the
school.
Procedures may be developed at each school encouraging a teacher or other
school employee, student, parent, guardian, or other person who has control or charge of
a student, either anonymously or in the persons name, at the persons option, to report or
otherwise provide information on bullying activity. Any teacher or other school employee
who, in the exercise of his or her personal judgment and discretion, believes he or she has
reliable information that would lead a reasonable person to suspect that someone is a
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target of bullying is encouraged to immediately report it to the school principal. Any
report will be appropriately investigated by the administration based on the nature of the
complaint in a timely manner to determine whether bullying has occurred, whether there
are other procedures related to illegal harassment or discrimination that should be
implemented and what other steps should be taken. Any report of retaliation for reporting
bullying will also be investigated and addressed as called for in this policy and in
accordance with school procedures.
Acts of bullying shall be punished by a range of consequences through the
progressive discipline process, as stated in the Code of Conduct. However, upon a finding
by the disciplinary hearing officer, panel or tribunal that a student in grades 6-12 has
committed the offense of bullying for the third time in a school year, the student shall be
assigned to an alternative school.
Upon a finding by a school administrator that a student has committed an act of
bullying or is a victim of bullying, the administrator or designee shall notify the parent,
guardian, or other person having control or charge of the student by telephone call or
through written notice, which may be done electronically.
Students and parents will be notified of the prohibition against bullying and the penalties
for violating the prohibition by posting information at each school and by including such
information in the student/parent handbooks.
Buses
Bus transportation is provided by the Whitfield County School System for every student
living more than 1 1/2 miles from his/her school. Safety of all students is the primary
goal in bus transportation. Students are expected to care for the buses, exhibit respect,
courtesy, and consideration for bus drivers and other bus riders, and behave appropriately
on the buses. Abuse of any of these may result in the loss of the privilege of participation
in the bus transportation program. No food, drinks, or candy is permitted on school buses.
Cafeteria
Each elementary school serves breakfast and lunch daily. Students are not allowed to
bring carbonated drinks or food in a bag displaying the name of a restaurant into the
cafeteria.
Lunches may be paid in advance by check or cash. Electronic payments may also be set
up with the school. Checks should be made payable to Whitfield County Food Services.
Students may also pay by the day as they go through the lunch line. Students are assigned
a number that they will repeat to the cashier each day as they go through the serving line.
Applications for free and reduced price meals will be conducted by the Whitfield County
Food Services Department.
Elementary Breakfast and Lunch Prices
Breakfast
Student
FREE
Adult
$1.60
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Daily Lunch
Extra milk
Reduced Lunch
$1.90
.50
$2.85
.40
Cafeteria Charge Procedure and Collection

Applications for free and reduced price meals will be conducted by the Whitfield County
Food Services Department. Online Free and Reduced applications will be made available
this school year at whitfield.heartlandapps.com or on the Whitfield County Schools
Website.
Charges: Elementary students have a limited charge privilege. If a student arrives at
school without money, they are allowed up to 5 days of charges. If a child arrives at
school without money for lunch and has reached the charge limit, he/she will be provided
an alternate meal (such as a cheese sandwich and milk). Charge letters will be sent home
with the students to notify parents of charges at the first negative balance and the
alternative meal policy. Charges are not allowed for extras or ala carte items.
Parents will be able to pay for student meals with cash, money order, check or online at
www.myschoolbucks.com
Central Enrollment
The Whitfield County Schools Enrollment Center is located at 201 East Tyler Street. The
enrollment center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Grades
kindergarten through five register at the enrollment center. For more information and
required paperwork, please visit our webpage at http://www.whitfield.k12.ga.us/.
Child Abuse
According to Georgia statutes, any circumstance that reasonably appears to indicate that a
child is being physically or mentally abused or neglected must be reported. The proper
procedure is to notify the administration of the concern. The administration will contact
the school counselor, investigate enough to confirm probable cause, and contact the
Department of Family and Children Services (DFACS) of the concern. No investigation
or extended questioning, beyond determining the concern, is to be engaged in by any staff
member. DFACS will be asked to provide any information they feel will help the school
system with the education of the child. School volunteers are also considered mandatory
reporters of suspected child abuse.
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Code of Ethics
According to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, educators should:
abide by federal, state, and local laws, and statutes;
always maintain a professional relationship with all students, both in and outside the
classroom;
refrain from the abuse of alcohol or drugs during the course of professional practice;
exemplify honesty and integrity in the course of professional practice;
entrusted with public funds and property should honor that trust with a high level of
honesty, accuracy, and responsibility;
maintain integrity with students, colleagues, parents, patrons, or businesses when
accepting gifts, gratuities, favors, and additional compensation;
comply with state and federal laws and local school board policies relating to the
confidentiality of student records, unless disclosure is required or permitted by law;
fulfill all of the terms and obligations detailed in the contract with the local board of
education or education agency for the duration of the contract; file reports of a breach
of one or more of the standards in the Code of Ethics for Educators, child abuse
(O.C.G.A., 19-7-5), or any other required report; and demonstrate conduct that follows
generally recognized professional standards.
All Whitfield County employees should have viewed the PSC Code of Ethics
PowerPoint. Documentation that this has occurred should be on file.
Communication With Parents

Communication with both students and parents is vital for academic progress. Every
effort should be made to communicate frequently with parents through conferences,
phone calls, email, written notes, etc. Communicating with students about their progress
may include conferencing with the student or responding in journals. Parents can also
access information about their students through the parent portal located at
http://campus.whitfield.k12.ga.us/campus/portal/whitfield.jsp A WCS automated call
system, a student/parent calling system, will also be employed to inform parents of
pertinent school information.
According to Office of Civil Rights Guidelines, parents must receive critical communications
regarding their childrens education in the home language to the extent practicable. The
district employs bilingual Parent Involvement Coordinators who assist with the interpretation
of parent conferences/sessions and the translation of written documents.
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Teachers are responsible for scheduling conferences with parents and documenting the
conferences that are held. The specific number of conferences required is determined by
the school level administrator and/or the needs of the student. When a conference is held
with a parent, the teacher should be prepared to discuss the students progress in the class
and specific strengths and weaknesses, share work samples from the student, give
feedback about the students behavior if applicable, and offer suggestions for
improvement. When a students performance is declining, the teacher should make every
attempt to contact the parent either in writing or via phone. In no instance should a
student receive a failing grade without the parent having been notified of the danger of
this occurring.
Counseling
Counseling services are intended to support and enrich the instructional program, foster
the growth and development of the student in all areas, and assist the instructional and
administrative staff in accomplishing school goals.
The primary services are:
1. individual and group counseling of students
2. parent and staff consultation
3. assistance with testing
4. orientation to school
5. referral to other support services
6. program planning
Teachers are encouraged to work closely with the counselor to effectively meet the needs
of the students in their individual school.
Curriculum Areas
Descriptions of the main content areas are below. For more information and curriculum
documents specific to each grade level, log into Sharepoint and click on Elementary
Curriculum.
English Language Arts and Reading

The English Language Arts curriculum is designed to introduce students to core concepts
that are further developed and expanded as students progress through each grade level.
This process allows students to develop the skills necessary to: 1.) comprehend and
interpret complex texts, 2.) compose a variety of types of writing, including those that are
critical to the workplace, 3.) effectively communicate and interact with others in group
situations, 4.) communicate information through different modes of presentation. The
Language Arts curriculum integrates the processes of reading, writing, and
listening/speaking in order to help students communicate and interpret information in a
variety of modes.
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Common Core Georgia Performance Standards for elementary language arts can be found
at: http://www.georgiastandards.org
Mathematics
The Common Core Georgia Performance Standards for mathematics have been designed
to achieve a balance between procedure and understanding. The curriculum stresses
rigorous concept development, presents realistic and relevant tasks, and keeps a strong
emphasis on computational skills. At all grades, the curriculum encourages students to
reason mathematically, to evaluate mathematical arguments both formally and informally,
to use the language of mathematics to communicate ideas and information precisely, and
to make connections among mathematical topics and to other disciplines.
Common Core Georgia Performance Standards for elementary mathematics can be found
at: http://www.georgiastandards.org
Science
The Georgia Performance Standards are designed to provide students with the knowledge
and skills for proficiency in science. The Project 2061s Benchmarks for Science Literacy
is used as the core of the curriculum to determine appropriate content and process skills
for students. The GPS is also aligned to the National Research Councils National
Science Education Standards. Technology is infused into the curriculum. To become
literate in science, students need to acquire understanding of both the characteristics of
science and its content. The GPS for science require that instruction be organized so that
these are treated together.
Common Core Georgia Performance Standards for English Language Arts contain Literacy
Standards for Science instruction. These standards emphasize the integration of reading and
writing into the content area.
Georgia Performance Standards for elementary science can be found at:
http://www.georgiastandards.org
Social Studies
The Georgia Performance Standards for social studies were designed to develop informed
Georgia citizens who understand the history of the United States and our place in an ever
increasing interconnected world. It is essential that students understand their past and
how that past influences the present day and the future. The ever growing body of
childrens literature that has relevant social studies themes should be incorporated into the
social studies curriculum. The reading of social studies related books should be an
integral part of the elementary reading program.
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Common Core Georgia Performance Standards for English Language Arts contain Literacy
Standards for Social Studies instruction. These standards emphasize the integration of
reading and writing into the content area.
Georgia Performance standards for elementary social studies can be found at:
http://www.georgiastandards.org
Discipline Code
The staff and students of Whitfield County Schools follow the guidelines set forth in the
Whitfield County Schools Student Discipline Code of Conduct Handbook. At the
beginning of each new school year, teachers read and discuss the discipline disclosure to
their students. A copy of the document is given to the students and they sign to validate
that they have been informed of these policies and procedures. The Whitfield County
Schools Student Discipline Code of Conduct is then sent home with the students.
A copy of the Whitfield County School Discipline Code may be found at:
http://www.whitfield.k12.ga.us/sscv/
Dress Code
Student
The Whitfield County Board of Education believes that an appropriate dress code will
support a safe school environment that is conducive to learning. A committee of board
members, administrators, teachers, parents, and students review the student dress code
each year. The Board of Education intends for the dress code to continually adapt to
changing styles, reflecting the needs and opinions of the schools and community.
The current Whitfield County dress code is intended for grades 6-12 and may be found on
Sharepoint.
Although elementary schools do not have a specific dress code in place, the acceptable
standards for appropriate and inappropriate attire outlined in the above mentioned board
policy may be used as guidelines. Adherence to these guidelines falls under the discretion
of the building level administrator at the elementary school.
Staf
While on duty, all teachers, school administrators, and all staff members shall dress in a
professional manner and style in accordance with the dress of other professionals within
this community.
A copy of the Whitfield County School Discipline Code may be found at:
http://www.whitfield.k12.ga.us/sscv/
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Acceptable Standards
1.All clothing must be sized appropriately and shall have no holes, frays or tears.
2.Clothing or tattoos shall not have writings, numbers, pictures, graphics,
monograms, symbols or drawings, that:
a. Promote Gang/cult memberships or activities
b. Show trademarks, slogans, or advertising advocating the use of alcohol,
tobacco, drugs, drug paraphernalia, or other unlawful activity.
c. Is offensive, lewd, profane, or sexually suggestive.
d. Advocates or indicates discrimination on the basis of race, color, national
origin, sex, age, religion, disability.
3.No visible piercings other than the ear.
4.No gauges in the ear.
5.Length of skirts, dresses, and dress shorts must be at least to the top of the knee.
6.Tops must be properly buttoned and long enough to cover the midriff at all times.
7.There should be no cleavage showing at any time.
8.Sleeveless tops are permitted as long as there are no undergarments showing.
9.Spaghetti straps and one-strap tops are not permitted.
The board recognizes that activities planned for the day will dictate, to a degree, the style
of dress considered appropriate. Each school principal, in his or her discretion, may
periodically designate spirit, casual or similar days on which the dress code may be
modified.
Consistent and uniform enforcement of this dress code is essential and is required of all
schools and all District and school officials. Any employee whose attire or dress is not
professional in the opinion of the building principal or WCS Superintendent shall be
directed to conform to this dress code.
Early Intervention Program (EIP)

The Early Intervention Program (EIP) is a state mandated program designed to serve
students enrolled in grades K-5. The purpose of the Early Intervention Program is to
provide additional, accelerated, and differentiated instruction and resources to help
students who are performing below grade level obtain the necessary academic skills to
reach grade level performance in the shortest possible time. Parent notification must be
sent if a student qualifies for EIP, however, permission is not required to provide this
service. The delivery models for EIP may include, but are not limited to, class
augmentation, pull-out, reduced class, Reading Recovery, or self-contained classes taught
by certified personnel. Students become eligible for EIP services by scoring at
Performance Level 1 (does not meet) on the GEORGIA MILESTONES in math or
reading for grades 4-5. Students in grades K-3 are identified by an EIP checklist (rubric).
Additional information on EIP assessment, accountability, class size, and placement
criteria can be found at the Georgia Department of Education (doe.k12.ga.us) website or
in the EIP handbook on Sharepoint.
Emergency Preparedness
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Each Whitfield County School is responsible for creating an Emergency Operations
Plan (EOP) based on the districts EOP template. An electronic copy of this plan is sent
to the Whitfield County Schools Chief Operations Officer and additional copies are kept
at the school. Included in this plan are procedures to be followed in various emergency
situations, an outline of which staff members will be responsible for each part of the
plan, a school map, and additional emergency information. At the beginning of the
school year, the plan should be reviewed and discussed with all staff members. A copy
of the sign-in sheet for EOP training should be sent to the Operations Department.
Emergency drills are an important part of each schools Emergency Operations Plan. The
following drills are conducted at each school: fire drills (twice during the first month of
school and monthly thereafter), tornado drills (once in September and again during the
Statewide tornado drill in February), bus evacuation drills (twice yearly), and lock
down drills (twice annually: once in August and again in January).
The following is a description of the lock down procedures. Detailed information is
included in the EOP.
Descriptors of lockdown/evacuation procedures from EOP

Handbook:
Lockdown Signals:
School Administrator:
Always give code over intercom and portable radio. (Twice)
Disable class change bells during lockdowns.
Lockdown Procedures: Anyone can give lockdown order.
Secure Lockdown (Formerly - Code Red)- Threat is present. Interior or exterior threat
(if known) should be specified. Lockdown order Secure Lockdown and
indication of either interior or exterior threat present will be broadcast
two times over the intercom and over the two-way radio on the local
school channel.
Teachers:
1. If safe to do so, check outside classroom door for students and bring any inside who
are in the hallway. Teachers who are located next to student restrooms may also bring
students from the restrooms into the classroom if the teacher deems that it is safe to
do so.
2. Lock classroom door.
3. Turn off classroom lights and cover window on classroom door from the inside.
4. Close exterior windows and shades if possible.
5. Move students away from windows and doors depending on location of threat.
(Exterior threat: move students to exterior wall under or next to windows. Interior
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threat: Move students against interior wall away from door / interior windows,
keeping in mind the path a bullet would take if fired from the threat area into the
classroom.)
6. Try to keep students quiet. Remember that students behavior will be influenced by
your demeanor. If you panic, they will too.
7. Call roll. (Make a list of any student not present and of any extra students)
8. Email school lockdown email address w/ appropriate color code, teachers name, and
room number in the subject line. Provide any details on red or yellow status in the
body of the email.
9. Remember that a lockdown situation could last a few hours. Resourcefulness will be
required.
10. DO NOT open classroom door unless all clear is given or if someone knocks,
identifies themselves as emergency personnel and slides an emergency access card,
issued by Whitfield Co. Schools, under the door.
11. If a student knocks in an attempt to enter the classroom after the lockdown: Teachers
should attempt to determine if a student is alone and NOT a threat before allowing
the student to enter the classroom.
- Use extreme caution
- Ask student if they are alone
- Ask student to see their hands
- Teachers use their own discretion to determine if it is safe to open the door,
being mindful that the safety of all students in the classroom is at stake.
- If the teacher decides not to open the door: tell the student to proceed to the
nearest restroom or other known safe location nearby.
12. Teachers and all staff members without students should lockdown where they are.
Do not go to students under another teacher's supervision.
13. Students outside for P.E. or recess when Secure Lockdown is called for an interior
threat should proceed to an outside safe location which provides cover and
concealment. (Pre-designate locations) If there is an exterior threat or in case of a
Perimeter Lockdown, a reverse evacuation should be initiated bringing students back
inside the building as quickly as possible, locking down, and taking quick
accountability of students and staff.
14. Faculty and staff members who have students in their care must be ready and able to
move or adjust based on current situations. (Example: In a lockdown situation when a
fire breaks out in a classroom or an armed intruder enters the locked down classroom,
the teacher must be ready to evacuate without waiting for orders from the Incident
Commander.) In such cases, communication with Incident Command as soon as
possible after the action is taken is imperative. Movement from locked down
positions should only be made when the threat to life and safety of students makes it
necessary.
Lockdown Response:
SECURE (formerly known as Code Red): lock down. Threat is present. Doors
locked, windows covered, classroom lights turned off, and students moved away from the
potential threat area within the classroom. Lockdown email message sent if possible.
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GENERAL (formerly known as Code Yellow or Code Yellow- Medical): lock
down. No threat present. Students remain in classrooms and instruction continues as
usual. Students may be brought in from outside activities as necessary given the
circumstances.
PERIMETER (formerly known as Code Yellow Perimeter): Known or
suspected threat in the area, but not believed to yet be on campus. Classroom
instruction continues as normal. All doors and windows are checked to be
secure and all entry points are monitored throughout. Students are brought
inside during a perimeter lockdown.
SHELTERING IN PLACE: Chemical release or other environmental
contaminants may be present in the atmosphere outside the building. All staff,
students, and visitors will be moved to the most interior part of the building. All
windows and doors should be closed and HVAC system turned off to prevent
contaminated air coming in from the outside.
Evacuations: Instructions for various types of evacuations will be given
over the intercom, by bullhorn, runner, email, etc.
Shelter in Place Procedures: Shelter in place procedures will be used in case of
chemical, biological, or radiological materials incidents. The goal is to prevent or end the
exposure to hazardous materials.
1. Check outside classroom door for students and/or staff members.
2. Quickly bring students inside the main building from mobile classrooms or
outside activities if possible.
3. Close all windows and doors.
4. Move students to interior sections of the building away from exterior windows
and doors.
5. Turn off all fans and air conditioning units. If necessary, cut power to the building
to prevent airflow from outside.
6. Tape around and/or place coats, clothes, etc. around windows and doors.
7. Account for students and post lockdown email. Make list of any student not
present and of any extra students.
8. Post color status code, teachers name, and room # in subject line of lockdown
email. Include names of extra or missing students and report any emergencies that
may exist in the body of lockdown email.
9. Wait for further instructions or all clear announcement.
English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

ESOL Program
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ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) is a state-funded instructional program
for eligible English Learners (ELs) in grades K-12.The program is designed to help ELs
develop academic and social English language proficiency. Given that GA is a member
state of the World-Class Instruction Design & Assessment (WIDA) Consortium, ESOL
teachers integrate the WIDA English Language Development Standards (ELDs) with the
ELA and Math Common Core Georgia Performance Standards (CCGPS) as well as with
the Science & Social Studies GPS. Using state-approved ESOL delivery models (Push-in,
Pull-out, & Sheltered Courses) ESOL teachers collaborate with regular education
teachers to differentiate standards-based instruction and provide proficiency-appropriate
scaffolding and language supports that will help ELs develop communicative confidence
and skills in each of the four language domains: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
Regular education teachers also accommodate these students instructional and
assessment needs, providing a culturally-responsive classroom environment where ELs
first language and culture are valued and where they feel safe to participate in and can
take full advantage of all learning opportunities.
Criteria for Program Eligibility:
Initial Eligibility
The WIDA-ACCESS Placement Test (W-APT) is administered to students who meet
the following criteria on a Home Language Survey:
1. First language is not English.
2. A language other than English is spoken in the home.
3. The language used most often is not English.
The W-APT score determines if a student qualifies for ESOL services (See detailed
eligibility flowchart on website).
Continued Eligibility From January to February, all English Learners take the WIDA ACCESS for ELLs
test to measure their academic listening, speaking, reading, and writing proficiency
levels and growth. A students ACCESS Composite Proficiency Level and Literacy
Level together determine continuation or termination of ESOL services. ACCESS
proficiency levels are also used to assist schools leaders and teachers in grouping ELs
for instruction, scheduling ESOL services, informing RtI determinations, and guiding
the Testing Participation Committee (TPC) in the choice of accommodations.
ESOL Program Beliefs & Goals:
The mission of Whitfield County Schools is to increase student learning by
providing students and staff with meaningful, challenging, and engaging educational
experiences in a safe and supportive environment. We believe that staff should have a
unified focus and that our students are the ultimate beneficiaries of our common effort.
We also believe that teachers are instructional leaders and designers of learning
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experiences which are tailored to the unique learning and motivational needs of our
particular group of students. Parents and community personnel also are a vital part of our
work and we believe that all students deserve a safe, non-threatening learning
environment where they are treated with dignity and respect. English Learners are
certainly among the beneficiaries of this conceptual framework.
The education of ELs is a shared responsibility among the regular education
teacher and ESOL teachers. Collaboration among teachers and administrative
support/leadership are all necessary ingredients for student success. In order to provide
high quality and effective instruction to English Learners, we believe that both their
English development needs and academic content needs must be considered by
effectively scaffolding instruction. Program effectiveness is based on a continual
improvement model where current practices are evaluated in response to student
achievement data. Program improvements incorporate those practices deemed most
effective in the professional body of research. For this reason, on-going professional
learning opportunities are essential for all educators who interact with ELs. Since 2008,
WCS teachers have received training in the SIOP Model, a three-year professional
learning and job-embedded coaching program focused on increasing teachers
pedagogical skills to strategically target students academic language learning needs.
The district complies with all state and federal guidelines related to the education
of ELs. While we understand that compliance is a necessary factor, we consider such
compliance to be the minimum expectation. We seek continual improvement because we
invest in the lives of students and wish to offer the best practices available to ELs because
we believe that their education leads to increased opportunities in the future.
While it is possible that some districts might view English Learners as being
deficient in language skills, we take the additive view that ELs enrich the curriculum for
all students by adding a global perspective to classroom discussions and learning tasks.
Though ELs sometimes lack the prior knowledge that we expect based on our own
cultural perspectives, they offer a rich dialogue regarding experiences that bring our
curriculum to life. The presence of ELs also challenges our teachers to continually
improve their instructional methodology and by doing so, all students benefit from the
research-based methods in place.
The goals of the ESOL Program are to value and build upon students academic,
linguistic and cultural backgrounds; provide a supportive learning environment; assist
students in reaching their full academic potential; build connections between ESOL and
school-wide instructional programs; encourage participation of students and their families
within the school and community; and to foster understanding and appreciation of diverse
populations within the school and the community.
Additional ESOL information is available at the GA Department of Education
website: http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/Curriculum-Instruction-and-Assessment/Curriculumand-Instruction/Pages/English-to-Speakers-of-Other-Languages-(ESOL)-and-TitleIII.aspx
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and on the ESOL Program tab at the Whitfield County website
http://wcschools.drupalgardens.com/
Exceptional Student Services (ESS)

All students with disabilities, ages three through 22, residing in Whitfield County, are
offered a free and appropriate public education designed to meet their unique educational
needs. While the entire continuum of services outlined in the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is offered to students with disabilities in Whitfield
County, services are delivered in the general education setting to the maximum possible
extent. This requires general and special education teachers to work closely together,
using effective co-teaching models. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) with
goals to address areas of weakness are developed for each eligible child and require the
participation of the entire IEP team in order to help students make progress and
ultimately be prepared for graduation, employment, post-secondary education, and
independent living.
Local procedures developed in accordance with state rules and the IDEA may be
accessed in the Special Education Handbook found on Sharepoint under the Special
Programs tab.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

Model Notification of Rights under FERPA for Elementary and Secondary Schools
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and
students over 18 years of age (eligible students) certain rights with respect to the
students education records. These rights are:
(1) The right to inspect and review the students 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 (or appropriate
school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The
School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student
of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
(2) The right to request the amendment of the students education records that the
parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of
the students privacy rights under FERPA.
Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend a record should
write the School principal (or appropriate school official), clearly identify the part of the
record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the School decides
not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will
notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a
hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the
hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the
right to a hearing.
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(3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information
contained in the students 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 as its agent to
provide a service instead of using its own employees or officials (such as an attorney,
auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official
committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school
official in performing his or her tasks.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to
review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
(Optional) Upon request, the School discloses education records without consent
to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
(NOTE: FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable attempt to notify the
parent or student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it
intends to forward records on request.)
(4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education
concerning alleged failures by the School District to comply with the requirements of
FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington DC 20202-5920
(NOTE: In addition, a school may want to include its directory information public
notice, as required by 99.37 of the regulations, with its annual notification of rights
under FERPA.)
Model Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)
PPRA affords parents certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use
of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the
right to:
* Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of
the following protected areas (protected information survey) if the survey is funded in
whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED)1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or students parent;
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or students family;
3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers
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7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.
* Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of
1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding;
2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of
attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the
immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis
screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and
3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained
from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.
* Inspect, upon request and before administration or use
1. Protected information surveys of students;
2. Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above
marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes; and
3. Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.
These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated
minor under State law.
(School District will/has develop(ed) and adopt(ed)) policies, in consultation with
parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the
administration of protected information surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of
personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. (School
District) will directly notify parents of these policies at least annually at the start of each
school year and after any substantive changes. (School District) will also directly notify,
such as through U.S. Mail or email, parents of students who are scheduled to participate
in the specific activities or surveys noted below and will provide an opportunity for the
parent to opt his or her child out of participation of the specific activity or survey.
(School District) will make this notification to parents at the beginning of the school year
if the District has identified the specific or approximate dates of the activities or surveys
at that time. For surveys and activities scheduled after the school year starts, parents will
be provided reasonable notification of the planned activities and surveys listed below and
be provided an opportunity to opt their child out of such activities and surveys. Parents
will also be provided an opportunity to review any pertinent surveys. Following is a list
of the specific activities and surveys covered under this requirement:
* Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other
distribution.
* Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by
ED.
* Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above.
Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, D.C. 20202-5920
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PPRA Model Notice and Consent/Opt-Out for Specific Activities
(LEAs should adopt the following model form as appropriate)
The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), 20 U.S.C. 1232h, requires (School
District) to notify you and obtain consent or allow you to opt your child out of
participating in certain school activities. These activities include a student survey,
analysis, or evaluation that concerns one or more of the following eight areas (protected
information surveys):
1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or students parent;
2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or students family;
3. Sex behavior or attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family
relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or
ministers;
7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or
8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.
This requirement also applies to the collection, disclosure or use of student information
for marketing purposes (marketing surveys), and certain physical exams and
screenings.
Following is a schedule of activities requiring parental notice and consent or opt-out for
the upcoming school year: use of internet, release of student picture and or release of
directory information. This list is not exhaustive and, for surveys and activities scheduled
after the school year starts, the (Whitfield County Schools) will provide parents, within a
reasonable period of time prior to the administration of the surveys and activities,
notification of the surveys and activities and be provided an opportunity to opt their child
out, as well as an opportunity to review the surveys. (Please note that this notice and
consent/opt-out transfers from parents to any student who is 18 years old or an
emancipated minor under State law.)
Field Trips
All students should have the opportunity of attending field trips during the school year.
Field trips are an extension of the educational experience the students receive at school.
Therefore, all field trips should be directly related to the Common Core Georgia
Performance Standards. Donations may be requested from parents to help defray cost;
however, no fees may be required and no student may be denied the opportunity to
participate due to not paying.
Teachers are responsible for the organization of the field trip. Steps include informing the
principal of the logistics of the trip, completing the bus request and student permission
forms, making arrangements with the facility to be visited, and obtaining permission from
parents for their children to participate. Field trips should generally be planned two weeks
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in advance to allow scheduling of buses and proper notification to the cafeteria if lunches
are going to be needed. Overnight field trips require board approval.
Only Whitfield County employees are allowed to ride on the buses with students. Parents
may attend as chaperones as long as they have been approved by the principal prior to the
trip. For safety reasons, one list of the students and adults on each bus should be left in
the office, and a copy taken on the bus. Also, a cell phone and first aid kit should be on
each bus.
Flag Displays and Pledge of Allegiance

Each school in the Whitfield County School System is to display the flag of the United
States and the flag of Georgia on appropriate occasions. (Legal Reference O.C.G.A. 503-3). In accordance with Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 20-2-310) every student in the
Whitfield County Schools will be given the opportunity to cite the Pledge of Allegiance
to the flag of the United States of America during each school day. The principal of each
school shall schedule the time and manner for recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.
Each teacher shall be informed of this policy and shall adhere to the same.
Gifted Education (ALPHA)

Gifted Services
Students in grades K 12 in Whitfield County Schools are eligible for consideration for
the gifted program, ALPHA (Accelerated Learning Program for High Achievers).
Students in grades K 12 who demonstrate a high degree of intellectual, academic,
and/or creative abilities may be nominated for evaluation to determine eligibility to
participate in ALPHA. The referral may be made by a teacher, administrator, counselor,
peer, or self- nomination. To be eligible for gifted services, a student must meet the
criteria in three of the four areas: mental ability, achievement, creativity, and/or
motivation. Information shall be collected in each area for students who are nominated
and accepted as referrals to the gifted program. Any data used in one area to establish a
students eligibility in one area may not be used as data in another category. Any test
score used to establish eligibility shall be current within two calendar years.
Grades and Report Cards

Teachers are expected to maintain accurate grades for each student in their class. Infinite
Campus is used for 4th and 5th grade students to record grades, and report cards are sent
home at the end of each nine week grading period in order to communicate the academic
achievement, conduct, and attendance of students with their parents. Progress reports are
sent home at 4 1/2 weeks. Because the first weeks of kindergarten and first grade are
review periods for these students, a letter is sent home in place of a progress report for
this grading period. A sample letter explaining this review period can be located on
Sharepoint.
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All kindergarten through third grade teachers use the standards-based report card which
identifies how the student is progressing with the Common Core Georgia Performance
Standards on a scaled rubric. Grades 4-5 use the numerical format below to report
progress.
The letter-numerical grading system is as follows:
Grade
A
90-100
B
80-89
C
70-79
Below 70 -U
Conduct
Satisfactory
Needs to Improve
Unsatisfactory
S
N
U
*Grades 2 and 3 use S, N, and U for social studies, science, and health
** All grades use S, N, and U for PE, music, and art
Report Card Rubric Guidelines
Beginning the 2012 school year, standards based report cards will no longer have
a numerical score of 4 on the scoring rubric. The 1-3 scoring rubric indicates a
childs progress toward meeting the standard within the grading period.
Once a standard is assessed and assigned a numerical score, leave a score
throughout the remainder of the year. In the next grading period, continue giving
a numerical score. This number may go up, down, or remain the same. Do not
return the score to an X.
As the content becomes more rigorous, student scores may change. Just because a
child scores a 2 in one nine weeks does not mean that the score could not drop to
a 1 in the next nine weeks. (Analogy If a high school student has a 95 average in
a course that does not mean the average will remain a 95 throughout the entire
year. As the year progresses, the difficulty of the content may increase causing a
score to drop.)
Year at a Glance (Pacing Guide) helps to assure that all standards are assessed
throughout the year. It is to be used as a guide and teachers are encouraged to use
flexibility depending on the needs of their students.
Do NOT put a 2 if you are just beginning a standard. A score reflects how a
CHILD is performing not how far you have taught. (In other words, the rubric
levels are based on a childs progress not the teachers point in instruction).
The report card is just one piece of communication. Just a reminder that if grades
are changing, the report card should not be the first notice the parents receive.
The score is based on MEETING EXPECTATIONS FOR THAT SPECIFIC
GRADING PERIOD AND NOT THE ENTIRE YEAR. (This means the portion
of the standard that has been taught, not necessarily the entire standard.)
The homework component has been added to Social, growth, and development.
Use your discretion when evaluate the homework.
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Guest Speakers
Often in elementary school classrooms, guest speakers can be utilized to enhance the
educational experience of the students as well as deepen the understanding of the
Common Core Georgia Performance Standards. Many times it is more cost effective to
have a guest speaker come to the school than to take the students away from the
classroom. It is imperative, however, that teachers obtain prior approval from the
principal before such visits occur. The classroom teacher is responsible for the content of
the guest speakers program. This content should be previewed prior to the visit. The
guest speaker must sign in at the front office upon entering the school.
Homework
In elementary school, homework should vary according to the grade level, with upper
elementary students receiving more than the younger students. However, no students
should have homework that takes several hours to complete. Assigned homework should
be practice of a skill or concept taught in class, or an independent project that possibly
involves the family. At no time should homework cover material that has not been
previously introduced in class. It is important that in grade levels where subjects are
taught by different teachers, these teachers collaborate so that students are not overloaded
with homework on any given evening.
Hospital/Homebound Services
Whitfield County Schools offers a Hospital/Homebound Program to students who have
extended absences from school due to medical reasons. A student is eligible for
hospital/homebound educational services when he or she submits a completed medical
referral form to the system. Students eligible for hospital/homebound instruction shall be
absent for a minimum of ten (10) consecutive days unless a licensed physician certifies
that the child has a chronic health condition causing him/her to be absent for intermittent
periods of time during the school year.
Immunizations
All students must have on file in the main office a Georgia Department of Human
Resources a Certificate of Immunization. This shot record must show that the student is
adequately immunized for the students present age.
Infinite Campus
Student data is maintained using the web based program Infinite Campus. The system
provides teachers with this tool for lesson planning, classroom management, attendance
taking, and grading. Teachers may work anywhere they have access to the internet.
The Infinite Campus Parent Portal allows parents to login and view information relative
to their student(s). Attendance, assignments, and grades may be viewed. This system is
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not intended to replace face to face communication between school and parents but to
assist parents in knowing the progress of their child.
Instructional Materials
Funding for instructional materials required to complete each state-funded course will be
provided by the school system. Students may be asked to supply materials basic to all
courses, such as paper, pencils, crayons, and pens, as long as specific types or brands of
materials are not required. School supply lists can be found on the Whitfield County
website. Any requested materials above and beyond these items shall be provided by the
school system.
Instructional Minutes
According to Whitfield County Board Policy, instructional time is defined as all portions
of the day when instruction or instruction-related activities based on the Common Core
Georgia Performance Standards (CCGPS) are provided by or coordinated by a certified
teacher or substitute teacher.
Requirements:
Kindergarten students shall be scheduled for not less than 4 hours (270 minutes) of
daily instruction.
Any grade 1-3 shall have not less than a daily average of 4 hours (270 minutes) of
instructional time based on the 180-day school year.
Any grade 4-5 shall have not less than a daily average of 5 hours (300 minutes) of
instructional time based on the 180-day school year.
For students in any grade 1-12, only days in which students are present for at
least half of the instructional time required at each grade level (grades 1-3, 135 minutes
of 270; grades 4-5, 150 minutes of 300; grades 6-12, 165 minutes of 330) shall be
counted in the 180 days of school as specified by law.
Internet
All Whitfield County Schools employees may have internet access. A copy of the
employee guidelines can be found on the county website.
Employees Internet Policy

It is the belief of the Whitfield County School System that the use of telecommunications,
including the Internet, in instructional programs is an educational strategy which
facilitates communication, innovation, resource sharing, and access to information. Use
of the Internet must be in support of education and research and consistent with the
educational mission, goals, and objectives of the school system.
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It shall be the policy of the Whitfield County Board of Education that the school system
shall have in continuous operation, with respect to any computers belonging to the school
having access to the Internet:
(A) A qualifying technology protection measure, as that term is defined in Section
1703(b)(1) of the Childrens Internet Protection Act of 2000; and
(B) Procedures or guidelines developed by the superintendent, administrators and/or
other appropriate personnel which provide for monitoring the online activities of users
and their use of the chosen technology protection measure to protect against access
through such computers to visual depictions that are (i) obscene, (ii) child pornography,
or (iii) harmful to minors, as those terms are defined in Section 1703(b)(1) and (2) of the
Childrens Internet Protection Act of 2000. Such procedures or guidelines shall be
designed to:
Provide for monitoring the online activities of users to prevent, to the extent practicable,
access by minors to inappropriate matter on the Internet and the World Wide Web;
Promote the safety and security of minors when using electronic mail, chat rooms, and
other forms of direct electronic communications;
Prevent unauthorized access, including so-called hacking, and other unauthorized
activities by minors online;
Prevent the unauthorized disclosure, use and dissemination of personal identification
information regarding minors; and
Restrict minors access to materials harmful to minors, as that term is defined in
Section 1703(b)(2) of the Childrens Internet Protection Act of 2000.
Parents must send a letter to the school if they DO NOT want their child to have access
to the internet.
(C) The school system shall provide for students age-appropriate instruction regarding
safe and appropriate online behavior, including interacting with others on social
networking sites and in chat rooms; behaviors that may constitute cyber bullying; and
how to respond when subjected to cyber bullying.
Students
WCS no longer require that parents sign an Internet permission form before students can
use the internet. Instead, an opt-out procedure will be followed. Parents will notify the
principal in writing at the beginning of the school term if they DO NOT want their child
on the Internet. This change in policy will be posted on the county website.
Lesson Plans
The success of the instructional program depends to a large extent on the designing that
goes into the lessons. Much emphasis should be placed on designing lessons that will
engage students in the learning. Each elementary principal is responsible for determining
the specifics of the lesson plans completed by the teachers at his/her school. The principal
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will also determine when lesson plans are to be completed or turned in. It is suggested
that lesson plans include the specific Common Core Georgia Performance Standards
being taught, as well as activating strategies, activities, summary techniques, methods of
differentiating instruction, and method of evaluation. Teachers should have a lesson plan
folder set aside in their classroom for the substitute teacher in case they need to be absent
from school unexpectedly.
Lice Procedures
The following recommendations are taken from the Georgia Head Lice Manual, DHR.
School staff may access the complete manual at
http://health.state.ga.us/pdfs/nursing/headlicemanual.pdf.
An infestation of head lice is generally a minor and temporary annoyance to the child.
Head lice are not caused by, or associated with, poor hygiene or parental neglect. The
American Academy of Pediatrics says no healthy child should be excluded from, or
allowed to miss school because of head lice. Children will not be excluded from school
because of the presence of nits. The Georgia DHR recommended procedures are to
notify parent/guardian at the end of the day of the suspected infestation, which includes
the presence of live bugs and live nits. Schools are encouraged not to send a child home
if live nits or bugs are detected. State guidelines report that transmission of head lice
most often occurs with direct head to head contact so exclusion or isolation of the child is
not necessary.
The following guidelines are suggested:
The child should be restricted from play and sports activities involving close
contact (i.e., hugging) or sharing personal items (i.e., hats, clothing, brushes,
towels, etc.) with other children.
The school is to contact the parent (verbal communication is preferred).
Immediate removal of the child is not necessary. If the child has lice, it is likely
he/she has been infested for weeks; prompt removal of the child could lead to
embarrassment and ridicule. The child can be sent home at the end of the day.
A letter that includes treatment information should be sent home notifying the
parent of procedures and guidelines for treatment. The school administrator may
or may not decide to notify classmates parents and ask them to check all the
children in that particular classroom for the presence of head lice.
The Health Department is willing to assist with treatment and prevention for
chronic cases. School nurses are available to train and provide consultations on
procedures that might assist parents and school staff.
The school/school nurse will continue to keep a pediculosis file sheet to monitor
head lice infestation for each infected student. If the situation becomes long-term
or chronic, a referral may be made to the school social worker. DFACS referrals
may be considered only after the school nurse, Health Department, and social
worker referrals have been made.
Rarely should a child miss more than ONE day of school due to treatment. One
day only will be excused for treatment. The parent will be asked to sign and send
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a confirmation of head lice treatment which will be kept on file at school. The
child should be checked again before readmission by the school nurse or
designated person. Please note that the presence of nits or even a slow moving
bug may still be present. This does not necessarily indicate lack of treatment or
communicability.
We will still hold parents accountable for treating and clearing the child, but we will try
to prevent the child from missing additional school after initial detection and treatment.
School nurses can be of assistance in the detection of head lice, treatment guidelines and
education of parents and staff. School wide screenings are also not recommended state
guidelines. Staff should be aware of outward symptoms. Staff and parent education may
be a more appropriate lice management tool.
Measures of Academic Process (MAP)

Elementary students in all grades take the MAP assessment two times during the school
year. A third testing period is optional. MAP allows teachers to assess student progress,
group students according to academic needs, and design work that specifically meets the
needs of their students.
Media Center
Each elementary school has a media center staffed by a media specialist that is open to
teachers and students throughout the instructional day. In keeping with Georgia standards
regarding access, flexible scheduling is utilized for the teacher to schedule a classroom or
individual students for planned activities. The services of the media specialist are
available to assist the classroom teacher with technology and locating available
instructional materials, as well as being available to individual students and small groups
throughout the instructional day.
Class visits to the media center are for instructional purposes and are based on
cooperative planning between the media specialist and the classroom teacher. The teacher
maintains responsibility for the whole class during visits to the media center and
participates in the delivery of instruction to meet the purpose of the visit.
Videos- Videos should be shown for instructional purposes and should have a direct
connection to the Common Core Georgia Performance Standards. Videos that are
personally owned or that have been rented must have the Whitfield County form USE
OF NON-SCHOOL OWNED RESOURCES completed, signed by the principal, and
returned to the media specialist before viewing. This form may be obtained through
Forms Manager. (Search Forms Manager all forms with the term use of non-school
owned resources.)
Copyright Laws- Copyright: A guide to Information and Resources by Gary Becker, has
been identified by the Whitfield County Board of Education as the procedural guide to be
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followed by system employees in complying with the federal copyright law. A copy of
this book may be obtained from the media center.
Medications
All medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter, may be administered only by a
designated adult at the school. All medications must be taken by the student or guardian
to the school office immediately upon arrival at school. Any student possessing
prescription or over-the-counter medicine not in accordance with these guidelines will be
considered in violation of the Whitfield County Schools drug policy. Before any medicine
can be administered, the school office must have on file a written request from the
students parent or guardian asking that the medicine be administered by the school. The
medicine must be in the original container with the name of the patient, the prescribing
physician, as well as the name of the pharmacy filling the prescription. All medicine
should be kept in a secured area and a dated medication log should be maintained for
each student receiving medication.
A student for whom the school has on file supporting medical documentation may carry
at all times with parental/guardian permission inhalers for asthma, auto-injectable
epinephrine (epi pens) for allergic reactions and medical needs for diabetes. Students
authorized to self-administer such medications shall be instructed not to permit any other
student to handle, possess, or otherwise attempt to use his/her medication and shall be
informed that violations of such instructions will be dealt with in accordance with the
student code of conduct.
In order for the student to carry and self-administer such medications, or in order for the
school to store and administer the medication for students who are unable to selfadminister because of age or any other reason, parents must provide a written statement
from a licensed physician confirming that the student is able to self-administer the
medication and written permission from the parent for the nurse or designated employee
to consult with the doctor regarding any questions that may arise concerning the
medication.
Money Collection
It is important that procedures for the collection of money be followed at each elementary
school. General procedures for money collecting include the following:
1. All monies received should be listed on a roster when received. The roster should
be signed and dated daily by the employee receiving the money.
2. If the amount received per student exceeds $10, a receipt for the money should be
written. All receipts and money documentation should be turned in to the office
daily
3. Money should never be left in the classroom overnight.
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4. Letters requesting contributions must state the purpose for which the money is to
be used; that the contribution is voluntary; and that students will be involved
regardless of ability to contribute.
The most current version of Whitfield County Accounting Procedures manual is available
on Sharepoint http://sharepoint.whitfield.k12.ga.us/default.aspx
Nondiscrimination Statement
It is the policy of the Whitfield County School District that racial, sexual, or other forms
of harassment are strictly forbidden. Any student, employee, applicant for employment,
parent or other individual who believes he or she has been subjected to harassment or
discrimination by other students or employees of the school district based upon his or her
race, color, religion, national origin, disability or sex should promptly report the same to
the principal of their school or the appropriate coordinator, who will implement the
boards discriminatory complaints or harassment procedures. Students may report
harassment or discrimination to their school counselor. Students and employees will not
be subjected to retaliation for reporting such harassment or discrimination. A copy of the
discriminatory complaint procedure of the Whitfield County School District
(GAAA/JAA) is located online in the board of education policy manual at
www.whitfield.k12.ga.us and is available in all school offices and the central office.
State law prohibits discrimination based on gender in athletic programs of local school
systems (Equity in Sports Act, O.C.G.A. 20-2-315). Students are hereby notified that the
Whitfield County School System does not discriminate on the basis of gender in its
athletic programs. Inquiries or complaints concerning sports equity in this school system
may be submitted to the sports equity coordinator.
Operations
The Operations Department is responsible for Transportation, Facilities and Maintenance.
Operations is (706) 876-7280.
Transportation: Information regarding field trips, charter bus services, CDL training for
staff members, and general pupil transportation information can be found on Share Point
under Operations Transportation.
https://sharepoint.whitfield.k12.ga.us/operations/Transportation/Forms/AllItems.aspx
Maintenance: Facilities Maintenance work orders must be submitted electronically. A
quick-step guide for requesters is included on Share Point under Operations
Maintenance. https://sharepoint.whitfield.k12.ga.us/operations/Maintenance%20and
%20SPLOST/Forms/AllItems.aspx
Placement/Promotion/Retention
Each school principal or designee shall establish a placement team for each student in
grades 1st through 5th grades who does not achieve grade level on reading and/or
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mathematics sections of the Georgia Milestones test. The placement team shall determine
whether each student shall be placed, retained or promoted based on a review of the
overall academic achievement of the student as well as the students Georgia Milestones
Test performance.
Additional promotion and retention information will be provided to schools and parents
as soon as the assessment benchmarks are determined by the Georgia Department of
Education.
Additional Placement/Promotion/Retention Information can be found:
The Whitfield County School system follows state guidelines concerning the promotion,
placement, and/or retention of students. These guidelines may be accessed at the
following link. Scroll down to rule number 160-4-2-11.
http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/pea_board.aspx?PageReq=PEABoardRules
Parent Notification:
Parents should be notified regularly by the classroom teacher of student progress. If a
student is not meeting grade level standards, additional communication should be
maintained with parents. Written notification with request for parent signature should be
given when a students progress indicates promotion could be jeopardized. In January, a
letter should be sent home indicating that placement or retention is a possibility for the
following school year. This uniform letter (found on Sharepoint) should be copied and
sent home to be signed and returned by parents. (Kindergarten teachers wait until mid
February to send this letter due to the developmental level of their students). Parents of
students entering after the second nine-weeks should be sent notification as soon as the
students progress indicates possible retention. In March, a reminder letter should be sent
home if the student is a possible candidate for placement/retention. Parents should sign
and return the letter to the school.
Those students not meeting grade level standards will be reviewed by a placement
committee for consideration of placement or retention. The committee is generally
composed of the principal, the content teachers that have taught the student, and any
other personnel the school deems necessary. The Placement/Retention Recommendation
Forms used by the placement committee at the end of the year, and the March reminder
letters are located on Sharepoint.
If a parent disagrees with the placement committees decision, he or she will be asked to
sign a letter stating that there was disagreement and giving reasons as to why. A copy of
this letter can be accessed on Sharepoint.
Professional Learning
Professional learning is the means by which teachers acquire, enhance, and refine the
knowledge and skills necessary to create and support high levels of learning for all
students. The focus of professional learning within a school should be determined by the
49
school improvement plan and the identified targeted areas contained in the plan. Teachers
should participate in professional learning that is specific to the needs of their students
and the overall focus of the school. In Whitfield County, teachers are expected to
accumulate 10 PLUs (professional learning units) every five years. One PLU is
equivalent to 10 contact hours. Teachers need to complete the Prior Approval Form
before attending a Professional Learning opportunity.
Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA)

The Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) (20 U.S.C. 1232h; 34 CFR Part 98)
applies to programs that receive funding from the U.S. Department of Education (ED).
PPRA is intended to protect the rights of parents and students in two ways:
It seeks to ensure that schools and contractors make instructional materials available
for inspection by parents if those materials will be used in connection with an EDfunded survey, analysis, or evaluation in which their children participate; and
It seeks to ensure that schools and contractors obtain written parental consent before
minor students are required to participate in any ED-funded survey, analysis, or
evaluation that reveals information concerning:
1. Political affiliations;
2. Mental and psychological problems potentially embarrassing to the
student and his/her family;
3. Sex behavior and attitudes;
4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating and demeaning behavior;
5. Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close
family relationships;
6. Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of
lawyers, physicians, and ministers; or
7. Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for
participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such
program).
Parents or students who believe their rights under PPRA may have been violated may file
a complaint with ED by writing the Family Policy Compliance Office. Complaints must
contain specific allegations of fact giving reasonable cause to believe that a violation of
PPRA occurred.
Pyramid of Interventions/SST
The Pyramid of Interventions is a conceptual framework that illustrates layers of
instructional efforts that can be provided to students according to their individual needs.
It represents the process of continually implementing progress monitoring and then
providing layers of more and more intensive interventions so that students can be
successful and progress in their learning. This approach focuses on determining when
students are struggling and providing strategic interventions to help them shore up their
50
areas of need; it also documents students strength and provides additional challenge in a
variety of ways.
In Whitfield County elementary schools, a Pyramid of Interventions has been created by
each individual school which outlines the strategies and programs that school has in place
and which can be used as interventions with that specific student population. The school
psychologists have assisted with the implementation of the Pyramid of Intervention in all
elementary schools. Each elementary school has a block of intervention time scheduled in
their day in which they group students according to their specific needs. Instruction is
prescriptive and focused in nature, and students may change small groups as their needs
are met.
Tier 1 includes classroom instruction of the Common Core State Standards that all
students will receive.
Tier 2 includes interventions for students who will benefit from instruction that is
different and/or additional from instruction that all students receive. EIP and ESOL may
fall in Tier 2.
Tier 3 includes the Student Support Team (SST) and more specific and individual
analysis of the students needs.
Tier 4 is developed specifically for students who meet the respective eligibility criteria
for special program placement. ALPHA and Special Education services fall under Tier 4.
School Closings
In the event of severe inclement weather or mechanical breakdown, Whitfield County
Schools may be closed, may delay starting time, or may advance dismissal time.
Decisions regarding school closings will be made by Central Office personnel and will be
announced over radio stations WBLJ, WTTI, and WRCD, as well as Chattanooga
television stations. Automated calling system will also be employed to inform parents of
school closings. WCS also use social media such as twitter and Facebook to announce
school closings. If no announcement is made by approximately 6:30 a.m., it should be
assumed that school will be in session. Parents and teachers are asked to please refrain
from calling the school or central office, as lines need to be left open for emergencies.
School Improvement Plans

Each elementary school develops a School Improvement Plan which serves as a blueprint
for guiding the schools continuous improvement and progress toward identified student
achievement objectives. MAP (Measures of Academic Progress), or end of year test data
is used to analyze strengths and weaknesses within the core academic areas. The plan
identifies the current level of student performance and sets measurable goals for
improvement. The plan also outlines the actions, strategies, interventions, and means of
51
evaluation that will be implemented during the following school year. Specific
professional learning that the school determines is needed based on test data is listed in
the plan, along with a timeline and estimated cost for any training or materials involved.
The plan is usually developed by a committee designated by the principal, and then
reviewed and discussed periodically by the entire staff. A copy of the plan is sent to
Lorijo Calhoun at the central office.
Section 504
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, commonly referred to as "Section 504," is
a nondiscrimination statute enacted by the United States Congress. The purpose of
Section 504 is to prohibit discrimination and to assure that disabled students have
educational opportunities and benefits equal to those provided to non-disabled students.
For more information regarding Section 504, or if you have questions or need additional
assistance, please contact your local systems Section 504 Coordinator at the following
address:
Wanda Phillips
201 East Tyler St.
Dalton, GA 30721
706-278-8070
The medical exam report can be found at:
http://sharepoint.whitfield.k12.ga.us/specprogams/Section%20504/Forms/AllItems.aspx?
RootFolder=%2fspecprogams%2fSection%20504%2fForms
%20Folder&FolderCTID=&View=%7b0C70A0B4%2d6CDF
%2d4E01%2dBC20%2d160A088944AD%7d
Searches
Desks, lockers, and storage spaces provided to students and teachers are the property of
the school district. The principal or designee may have general inspections on a periodic
basis, including unannounced searches, and may open desks, lockers, and storage spaces
and examine the contents. Other searches will occur when there is reasonable suspicion
to believe there has been a violation of state or federal laws, local codes, or School Board
Policy. Searches may include personal belongings of students. Additionally, law
enforcement officials may randomly conduct unannounced canine searches.
Sex Education
In the upper elementary grades, the health curriculum includes material on human
reproduction and sexually transmitted diseases such as AIDS. Because this information is
sensitive, a permission form is sent home to parents, giving them the option of whether or
not their child participates in lessons involving these subjects (found on Sharepoint).
52
At the beginning of the school year, schools receive a list of approved curriculum
materials. If a teacher desires to use any material that is not on the approved curriculum
list, he or she must present the material to a school level committee for approval before
using with students. If the school level committee has a concern with the material, it must
be presented to a system level committee for review. A form for approval of new
materials is found on Sharepoint.
For board policy on sex education:
https://eboard.eboardsolutions.com/ePolicy/policy.aspx?PC=IDBA&Sch=4177&S=4177
&RevNo=1.11&C=I&Z=P
For state curriculum on sex education:
http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/Curriculum-Instruction-and-Assessment/Curriculum-andInstruction/Pages/HIV-AIDS-Prevention.aspx
Student Learning Objective

A vital component of the Teacher Keys Effectiveness System is Student Growth and
Academic Achievement. For teachers of tested subjects, this component consists of a
student growth percentile measure. Tested subjects include those assessed by Georgia
Milestones in grades 4-8, and all high school courses for which there is an End-of-Course
Test (EOCT).
Non-tested subjects include all courses not listed as tested subjects. Approximately 7075% of all teachers teach non-tested subjects for at least some portion of the instructional
day. For teachers of non-tested subjects, this component consists of the Georgia
Department of Education (GaDOE)-approved) Student Learning Objective Assessments
(Pre and Post-Tests for all non-state assessed courses.) utilizing district-identified
achievement growth measures.
District developed Course Pre-Tests and Course Post-Tests are content-specific, and
comprised of grade level learning objectives that are measureable, focused on growth in
student learning, and aligned to prioritized curriculum standards. As a measure of
teachers impact on student learning, these measures give educators, school systems, and
state leaders an additional means by which to understand, value, and recognize success in
the classroom.
Purpose of Student Learning Objectives (Course-Pre and Post Tests)
The primary purpose of Student Learning Objectives is to improve student achievement
at the classroom level. An equally important purpose is to provide evidence of each
teachers instructional impact on student learning. The process of setting and
using Course-Pre-Tests and Course-Post- Tests requires teachers to use assessments to
measure student growth. This allows teachers to plan for student success by ensuring that
every minute of instruction is moving students, teachers, and schools toward the common
vision of exemplary instruction and high levels of student academic growth.
Smoking/Use of Tobacco Products

53
Smoking and the use of tobacco products in the school building or anywhere on school
grounds is a violation of Whitfield County School Board of Education policy. This rule
applies to field trips and all extracurricular activities which are an extension of the
school. All persons on school property must follow this rule.
Student Records
Permanent Record
A permanent record shall be maintained for each student in the Whitfield County School
system in the fireproof storage of each school. There must be a folder for each student
enrolled, regardless of length of enrollment. Permanent records are legal documents. It is
essential that thorough and accurate record keeping takes place to ensure these vital
records are legally supportable. Records should be kept complete and up to date at all
times using black permanent ink. What is established as a students legal name is dictated
by how it is written on the birth certificate and/or social security card. When corrections
are made, the old information must remain readable. Therefore, information on the record
cannot be altered by any means other than striking through existing information and
writing new information using black ink- EXCEPT in the case of adoption. According to
a law change regarding child adoptions, if parents make the request and show proof of
adoption, every reference to the student and his/her history must be only the new name.
The old last name must not appear anywhere. This includes the permanent record, test
score labels, forms, etc. Parents are responsible for providing copies of new birth
certificates, social security cards, etc. Permanent records must not leave school grounds
and if checked out, must be returned to the fireproof storage at the end of the day.
Permanent records may NOT be destroyed.
*Student information is also maintained through Infinite Campus.
*Grades and attendance must be recorded in the permanent record at the time of
withdrawal. For grades K-3 in which standards-based report cards are used, a copy
of the report card will be filed in the perm and See Report Card should be written
on the inside cover of the permanent folder where grades are usually recorded.
The Permanent Record should include the following items:
Stapled in back of the folder:
1. Birth certificate
2. Immunization records
3. Copy of Social Security Card or waiver
4. Eye, Ear, and Dental Record
Also in the perm:
5. Medical data pertinent to childs performance or safety (vision/hearing
screening when problem is identified)
6. Copy of permanent record for transfers from other schools
7. Georgia EIP enrollment data and notification of EIP services, signed by parent
(if available)
8. Social Worker responses
54
9. Test information
a. Writing test information, if available
b. ESOL test data
c. GKIDS Student Profile printout
d. Test profiles and stickers from all standardized tests (GEORGIA
MILESTONES, ITBS, GKIDS, etc.)
e. Lexia (LCRT) score-record (if used)
f. AIMSWEB, MAP reports
10. SST (if applicable)
11. Notification letter of possible placement/retention, as well as the end of year
Placement/Retention Recommendation Form (if applicable)
12. Custody paper (if applicable)
13. Verification of address
17. Copy of standards-based report card (in grades K-3)
Transfer of Student Records

In System: Send the following items to the requesting school:
1. Permanent record (school retains a copy)
2. Report card (school retains copy)
3. Copy of Student Withdrawal/Transfer form (parent receives original)
4. Copy of student attendance report
5. Student Portfolio
Outside System: Send the following items to the requesting school:
1. Copy of report card
2. Copy of permanent record
3. Copy of Student Withdrawal/Transfer form (parent receives original)
*Special education records must be maintained separately from permanent records and
other folders. Refer to the Whitfield County Exceptional Student Services Handbook for
specific guidelines.
Teacher Evaluation
(aka TKES: Teachers Keys Effectiveness System)
Assessing teacher effectiveness is an integral part of the teaching and learning process.
House Bill 244 stipulates that a single, state-wide evaluation system be used for teachers
of record. The instrument used for this purpose is the Teacher Keys Effectiveness System
(TKES). Media Specialists and Counselors will continue to be evaluated on the Georgia
Media Specialist Evaluation Instrument and the Georgia School Counselor Evaluation
Instrument. Personnel who are not indicated as teachers of record will be evaluated by an
instrument as selected by the district.
Substitutes
55
At the elementary level, teachers and paraprofessionals must inform their school office as
soon as they know they will need to be absent for the day. Personal and professional
leave may be taken with prior approval.
It is each teachers responsibility to secure a substitute from the approved system list
posted on the AESOP program. It is also the responsibility of the teacher to have an
updated substitute teachers folder with plans, schedule, and other important information
available in the classroom or office. Substitutes must wear the appropriate identification
badge or sticker when working in the schools.
Teacher Evaluations
Teacher evaluation is an integral part of the teaching-learning process. The Quality Basic
Education Act (QBE) requires that all personnel have their performance evaluated
annually by appropriately trained evaluators. The specific type of evaluation used is to be
determined by the building level administrator. Principals may evaluate their teachers
through use of a portfolio or by a standard or formative evaluation GTOI observation
record. Principals may also determine the number of evaluations that each teacher will
receive during the school year according to the guidelines set forth by the superintendent.
Testing
The following is a list of the testing programs implemented at the elementary school
level.
Grade
PK
Test
Work Sampling Online (WSO)
Georgia Kindergarten Inventory of Developing Skills (GKIDS)

MAP (Measure of Academic Progress)
AIMSWEB (progress monitoring only)
Informal Reading Inventory (IRI)


Georgia GEORGIA MILESTONES

56
4

Local Writing Exam (TBD)
CoGAT
MAP

MAP
Additional testing may occur as needed. ACCESS (Assessing Comprehension and

Communication in English State to State) Testing to determine language acquisition is
conducted each spring for all English language learners. A norm-referenced test should
be given to any student entering from a non-credited program.
Textbooks
Textbooks may or may not be issued on an individual student basis. However, students
will have access to textbooks in the classroom when necessary and a book will be issued
to a student upon the request of a parent. Textbooks are to be used as a resource to
enhance the curriculum. Teachers should maintain accurate records both when issuing
individual textbooks and when using a class set of textbooks. Any book issued to a
student and not returned should be paid for by the student. Charges may be assessed for
damages to any textbook.
TransAct
The Georgia Department of Education subscribes to a website, transact.com,
which provides online translations of many school documents. As a Georgia school
district, employees can utilize this website at no cost. It is a federal requirement that all
critical information is communicated to parents in their home language to the extent
practicable. This includes all language groups. This does not mean that all information
must be translated, but critical information about program placement, test scores, etc.
should be sent home in the native language. The website is www.transact.com
If an account needs to be established, contact Madeline Gonzalez
(mgonzalez@whitfield.k12.ga.us). An email invitation will be sent, asking that you join
the site and create a password. Questions may be directed to your schools ESOL
teacher(s).When sending home information in Spanish, use Whitfield County forms
rather than those on transact.
As documents from the transact site are used, always print the document in
English first to review its contents before printing it in another language. Be certain the
57
form meets your needs. If you deem the content to be appropriate, utilize the home
language version (Arabic, Vietnamese, etc).
Transporting Students
Whitfield County School Employees should not transport students in their personal
vehicles at any time. If students are not picked up by parents after a school function or
event, all attempts should be made to contact the parents or school administrator.
Units
For the 2013-2014 school year, teachers have been asked to follow the state frameworks
in ELA and Math as closely as possible. Although specific texts in the frameworks may
need to be substituted for those that are available, the general format and instruction
within the frameworks need to be adhered to as closely as possible. This consistency
among schools will enable teachers to work through units at the same time and
collaborate on standards that are difficult for students, offering suggestions and ideas for
others across the system throughout the year. It will also help to identify professional
development or resources teachers may need as the Common Core Georgia Performance
standards are taught.
Visitors
For security reasons, all persons visiting the school must report to the office to sign in
and receive a visitors sticker. All visitors must have a visible, affixed visitors sticker if
they are outside of the office area. If a visitor appears unannounced, the teacher should
instruct the person to go to the office to sign in before any other business can be
conducted. Parents may visit classrooms after making an appointment with the teacher.
Students from other schools may not visit during the instructional day unless they are
participating in a specific program.
Volunteers
Volunteers are an essential and important part of school life. Recruited by teachers or the
PTA/PTO, these people can be of assistance to the school and are valuable to the schools
public relations.
Process for Volunteers in WCS:
o Person completes Volunteer Application
o Principal finds the application via Applitrack and sends Recommendation to HR
o HR sends the fingerprinting instructions to the email address listed on the
application to applicant
o When HR receives the fingerprinting results, we will send an email to the
principal that the applicant has been approved.
** After five years, they would need to be fingerprinted again.

Elementary Handbook 2014-15

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Whitfield County Schools

Whitfield County Schools

Whitfield County Board of Education...................................................11

English Language Arts and Reading....................................................25

Employees Internet Policy..................................................................42

Whitfield County Schools

Non-Negotiable Practices for High Student

Designing lessons aligned to the Georgia Performance Standards and CCGPS

Developing formative assessments that are explicitly aligned to standards

Our classroom environment will be built on:

Strong student-teacher relationships based on the school districts core values

Our communication with parents will be:

Frequent, clear, and consistent

Content and Substance

Whitfield County Schools

MondayWednesday, August 46..............................Pre-Planning for Teachers

Elementary Schools Four 9-Week Grading Periods

Middle Schools Six 6-Week Grading Periods

Report Card Dates

Progress Reports Issued

Semester Report Cards

2014-2015 Assessment Calendar

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ASSESSMENT DATES

Georgia Kindergarten Inventory of Developing Skills (GKIDS)

AIMSweb (2nd window)

MIDDLE SCHOOL ASSESSMENT DATES

Student Learning Objectives Pre-Test

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

Georgia Milestones retest

HIGH SCHOOL ASSESSMENT DATES

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

Student Learning Objectives Pre-Test

Georgia High School Graduation Test (GHSGT) Winter retest

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

Whitfield County Schools Directory

Whitfield County Schools Central Level Administration

Whitfield County Schools Central Office

Teaching and Learning

Infinite Vision Specialist

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

Whitfield County Schools Directory

Phone: (706) 259 3920 / Fax: (706) 259 - 6271

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

After School Care

AFTER SCHOOL WORKERS WHO ARE NOT CURRENT WCS

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

Cafeteria Charge Procedure and Collection

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook

Communication With Parents

English Language Arts and Reading

Early Intervention Program (EIP)

Descriptors of lockdown/evacuation procedures from EOP

English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

Exceptional Student Services (ESS)

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

Flag Displays and Pledge of Allegiance

Gifted Education (ALPHA)

Grades and Report Cards

2014-2015 Revised WCS Elementary Staff Handbook