Indian Trail Student Handbook

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Welcome to Indian Trail Middle School!

Indian Trail and the Johnson City Schools aspire to academic excellence. Comprehensive student activities, athletics, and support programs are offered. We encourage you to take full advantage of the programs and facilities available. Printed in this student handbook is useful information about our school.

Our telephone number is 423-610-6000

Fines

Overdue Library Books: $0.25 Per Day/Per Book
Lost Library Books: TBD per replacement cost
ID Replacement: $3.00 / ID Replacement w/lanyard: $5.00
Chromebook Replacement: $287.59
Chromebook Charger Replacement: $32.00
Lost Textbooks: TBD per replacement cost

Attendance Policy and Procedures 2026-2027 SY

Parents/guardians are to report student absences by calling the school by 9:00 a.m.
The Johnson City Schools will be implementing the following Progressive Truancy Plan for the 2026-2027 school year.

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS

It is essential that each student be present every day school is in session. Research indicates there is a direct correlation between school attendance and success in school. We believe it is important to expect and to assist students in being in school and on time. Students who are present at school derive maximum benefit from the instructional program and develop habits of punctuality, self-discipline, and responsibility.
Appointments should be scheduled outside of the school day, when possible, and vacations during the appointed breaks.
The implementation of the progressive truancy intervention plan will begin after five (5) unexcused absences:

a. Tier 1 – System-wide Preventative Action-communication from school regarding attendance, automated call or text to parents on every absence, home visits, community awareness, and school wide incentives for good attendance.
b. Tier 2- The student has acquired five unexcused absences-a meeting is held at the school with parent/guardian, student and school attendance team. An attendance contract is created with strategies to improve student attendance.
c. Tier 3-The student continues to accumulate unexcused absences-The student is referred to the Johnson City Schools Truancy Board. The case will be reviewed and appropriate community based referrals will be made, such as counseling, parenting classes, in-home services, etc.

If the student has further unexcused absences or fails to comply with the contract after progressing to Tier 3, a petition is filed with Juvenile Court.
If the parent/student refuses to participate in any part of the plan, the process will stop and a truancy petition is filed.

4. A student must be in school for 3 hours and 31 minutes to be considered present for the day.
5. If a student is not feeling well, they are allowed five (5) absences per year, without going to a doctor. A written parent note is required upon the student returning to school.
a. After the allowed five (5) parent note days, a doctor/dentist note is required for additional absences.
6. Parents should call the school by 9:00 a.m. when their child will be absent. After an absence, our policy requires that a written excuse from the parent or a doctor excuse, be sent to the office the day the child returns to school.
7. A student is allowed three (3) parent request days per year. The principal must approve parent request days.
8. Johnson City School Board Policy 6.200 states “Upon recommendation of the principal, students in grades K-8 who are absent more than twenty (20) days may not be promoted to the next grade. All absences, excused or unexcused, are counted in the maximum number of days that may be missed during a session or school year.”

ITMS TARDY POLICY

3 UNEX tardies/ED - Loss of Team Time (1 day)
6 UNEX tardies/ED - After-School Detention (ASD); parent contact
9 UNEX tardies/ED - Loss of Team Time (1 week); admin referral and parent contact
This resets each nine weeks.

Students arriving before 7:20 a.m. must either go to the gym, auditorium, or to the cafeteria for breakfast. Students must be in their classrooms with materials by 7:40 a.m. each morning and remain until 2:40 p.m.

Student ID Procedures

Students without IDs must report to the office first thing in the morning and pick up a temporary ID. Student IDs must be visible at all times. Office staff will keep a record of names and report them to the grade level principal. The grade level principal will use the following system for assigning consequences:

Guidelines for Wearing Student IDs:

IDs must be worn on the outermost layer of clothing making the ID visible (picture facing outwards).
Wear at all times while on campus during the school day unless a teacher instructs you to remove it.
IDs must not be defaced or altered in any way. The front and back of the ID card must remain as issued and free of stickers, markings, other photos, etc.
The ID must be presented to any school staff member or person of authority when seeking identification of the student. Refusing to provide the ID is considered insubordination and may result in disciplinary action.

Consequences for ID Violations:
The school has developed a process for tracking and assigning consequences to students who repeatedly violate the student ID expectations

Offenses 1-5: Warning
Offences 6-10: One day lunch detention
Offence 11: One day of ISS and Counselor Meeting
Offense 12+: One day ISS

Items to Leave at Home

All gaming devices, skateboards, hoverboards, skates, laser lights, wallet chains, toys, bandanas, head coverings, blankets, costumes, or other items which may interfere with instruction are not allowed.

There will be school consequences for possession of these items. In addition, students are not to bring items to sell or trade (candy, slime, gum, trading cards, etc.).

Cell Phone/Smart Watch Use/Earbuds

It should also be noted that use of student cellular phones/smart watches/earbuds on school property is not permitted during school hours. Cell phones should be turned off by the 7:20 a.m. bell and kept in lockers until students are dismissed at the end of the day. The use of cellular phones/smart watches/earbuds is strictly prohibited in any restroom or locker room whether on school grounds or while attending any school related event or activity (Board Policy 6.312). If a cell phone/smartwatch/earbuds is physically seen or heard, it will be confiscated. Disciplinary action will be taken for those students who continually violate this rule.

1st offense – confiscation, warning, phone taken to office, and student picks up at the end of the day
2nd offense – confiscation, lunch detention, and parent must pick up at the end of the day
3rd offense – confiscation, after school detention, and parents pick up at the end of the day
4th offense - confiscation and administration will determine consequence

Dress Code

The principal shall exercise appropriate discretion in implementing the dress code, including making reasonable accommodations on the basis of students’ religious beliefs or medical conditions. Students are expected to adhere to standards of dress and appearance that are compatible with an effective learning environment. Students wearing questionable attire will be required to change into clothing that meets dress code requirements. In matters of opinion, the judgment of teachers and administrators will prevail. Presenting a bodily appearance or wearing clothing which is disruptive, provocative, revealing, profane, vulgar, offensive or obscene, or which endangers the health or safety of the student or others is prohibited.

Examples of prohibited dress or appearance include, but are not limited to: pajama pants and slippers; costumes; exposed undergarments; sagging pants; excessively short or revealing garments; bare midriff shirts; strapless or spaghetti strapped shirts; attire with messages or illustrations that are lewd, indecent, or vulgar or that advertise any product or service not permitted by law to minors; head coverings including, but not limited to hoods and hats; see-through clothing; attire that exposes cleavage; and any symbols, styles, or attire frequently associated with intimidation, violence or violent groups about which students at a particular school have been notified. Sunglasses in the building are also prohibited unless approval has been granted by administration because of medical reasons.

If a student’s dress or appearance is such that it constitutes a threat to the health or safety of others, distracts the attention of other students or staff from their work, or otherwise violates this dress code, the principal or designee may require the student to change his/her appearance and/or be sent home according to the handbook.

ITMS DRESS CODE - CONSEQUENCES FOR VIOLATIONS

1st offense - Warning and immediate correction of dress. Students will call home for a change of clothing.
2nd offense - 1 day of lunch detention and immediate correction of dress. Parents are contacted by the teacher (via tracker, email or phone call). Teacher will email assistant principal requisition for lunch detention for 2nd offense violation.
3rd offense - After School Detention and immediate correction of dress. The Assistant Principal will contact the parent (phone call).
4th offense - In-School Suspension and immediate correction of dress. AP will contact the parent (phone call; ISS letter).
5+ offenses - ISS and/or OSS (multiple days) and immediate correction of dress. AP will contact the parent (phone call; ISS/OSS letter).

*DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS ARE RECORDED AND CARRY OVER EACH QUARTER. NO “CLEAN SLATE” EACH 9-WEEKS FOR DRESS CODE INFRACTIONS.

Visitors

Parents are always welcome. You are encouraged to visit and work in partnership with our total school program. To assure student safety, all visitors must report to the main office and check in using the computer system. Be prepared to show/scan your ID before entering any of the instructional areas. Please use the Car-Mol Drive entrance. As visitors leave the building, they should return to the office and sign out. Students from other schools are not permitted without administrative approval.

Parent Teacher Association

The National Congress of Parents and Teachers whose underlying purpose is to promote the welfare of children and youth, carries on its work through local groups including Indian Trail PTA. The organization works with the school administration, teachers, and parents to promote learning and to encourage better communication between parents and teachers.

Use of Telephone

Parents and students must plan their day before coming to school. Classes will not be interrupted during instructional time. Use of the school telephone during the school day will be at the teacher’s discretion. Teachers will not allow students to use the phone except for emergencies. Additionally, teachers may allow students to use personal cell phones when necessary. Students who are involved in sports, clubs, or after school activities should have a prearranged ride home.

Cafeteria

Breakfast is available to students and staff from 7:00 a.m. until 7:40 a.m. each day.
When arriving at school before 7:20 a.m., students MUST go to either the gym or the auditorium. Upon arrival, students may get a breakfast bag from the cafeteria or breakfast cart if they choose, and then proceed to the auditorium or gym. Students who go to the gym or auditorium MUST stay in their homerooms and will not be allowed to go to the cafeteria. Breakfast should be finished by 7:40 am. Students may choose to buy lunch or bring their own. Each student is issued a library/lunch photo ID card from our computer system.
Students and/or parents may deposit money in their cafeteria account at any time. Free and reduced lunch rates are available for those who qualify. Meals may not be charged.
Students are to behave appropriately while in the cafeteria and use proper table manners.
Students must use serving utensils to handle food. Picking up food with your
hand is not allowed and could result in an injury.
Prices for the year are: Breakfast - $2.50; Lunch - $3.50 Extras: Milk - $0.75; Cookies - $0.30; Water - $1.00
Carbonated beverages in the cafeteria only.

The lunchroom management and your fellow students will appreciate your cooperation in:

Finding a seat immediately and remaining seated.
Depositing all lunch litter in waste cans and the disposal system.
Returning all trays and utensils to the dishwashing area and place in the appropriate location.
Leaving the table and floor around your place in a clean condition for others.

Inappropriate behavior during breakfast or lunch will result in a student losing the privilege of sitting with classmates in the cafeteria (isolated lunch).

PowerSchool Parent Portal

The PowerSchool Parent Portal gives parents and students access to real-time information including attendance, grades, detailed assignment descriptions, and teacher comments. Everyone stays connected. Students can stay on top of assignments, parents are able to monitor their student's progress, and teachers can share information with parents and students. You will need to have access to the Internet and you will need to use the confidential ID and password provided by Indian Trail. You may access the PowerSchool Parent Portal through the school website at www.jcschools.org.

Please keep us informed

It is important that the school be able to contact parents when their child is ill, missed the bus, or in other emergency situations. To do this, parents/guardians must inform the office of changes in address or telephone number. In addition, any change in emergency contact numbers should also be reported to the office. Please let us know by calling 610-6000 or writing a note. Parents should be sure to update, sign, and return the information sheets that are sent home twice a year.

Clinic

Students reporting to the clinic must have the clinic sheet signed by their teacher. Our school clinic operates on a daily basis and is staffed with a qualified RN. A parent or guardian must sign out any child that needs to go home from the clinic in the main office.

Many students require medication to maintain an optimal level of functioning at school. IT IS ENCOURAGED THAT MEDICATION IS GIVEN AT HOME IF POSSIBLE. However, in some situations medication must be given at school. The following are criteria for administration of medication in the school setting:

All medication must be turned in to the clinic as soon as a student arrives on campus. No student is to carry prescription or non-prescription medications.
The student’s doctor must complete a medication administration form for any prescribed medication that needs to be given at school. Parents and guardians should complete the same form for over the counter medication. This form must be on file in the clinic. If there are any changes in medications, the form must be updated. Prescription medication must come in the original pharmacy labeled container. The container must display: student’s name, prescription number, medication name and dosage, administration route or other directions, date, licensed prescriber’s name, and pharmacy.
Non-prescription drugs must be brought to school in the original container and the student’s name affixed to the container.

Activities

Various clubs are available for students:
Examples include: Coalition for Kids, Girls on the Run, Robotics

Indian Trail also offers intramural games that begin at 7:05 in the mornings. Participation in intramural games is dependent on students’ conduct. Loss of privilege will be determined as situations arise.

Athletics

Indian Trail offers a variety of school related sports such as: football, soccer, basketball, cheerleading, dance, cross-country, swimming, wrestling, volleyball, baseball, softball, golf, and track. Physical forms may be picked up in the main office. In order to participate, a student must have an approved physical uploaded to Rank One. Physicals dated on or after April 15, 2025 are good for the entire 2025-2026 school year.

To be eligible to participate, students will not have more than 2 D’s, 2 N’s and no F’s or U’s on their current report card. All students may try out for a sport; however, if a student earns a position on a team, they must raise their grades to exceed the stated expectation within a two week window before participation in competitions and to remain on the team. If during the athletic season, a student’s marks drop below the stated expectations on the mid-term report or report card, they will be placed on academic probation and may not participate in competitions until the grades meet expectations. If the student’s grades do not improve within two weeks, the student may not remain on the team after that time. Students must attend school for ½ day to be eligible to participate in a game.

Athletics and School Discipline: For every day of In-School Suspension that is assigned, a student will not participate in the next game, match, etc. (For example, 1 day of ISS will result in removal from 1 game/match; 2 days of ISS will result in the removal of 2 games/matches, etc). If an out of school suspension occurs, the student will not participate in 2 games/matches and may be removed from the team.

Student athletes at Indian Trail must perform academically and display good citizenship. The major objective of the athletic program is to help develop well-rounded individuals physically, mentally, and socially. At all times we strive for good sportsmanship. Being an ITMS athlete is both an honor and a privilege. Individual team coaches will institute rules governing practice, attitude, and conduct. Students and their parents will be asked to confirm their understanding of their sports’ specific requirements for participation in writing. Indian Trail applies the guidelines set forth by TMSAA to govern our athletic programs and participants.
As a member of TMSAA, Indian Trail will apply their guidelines to our athletic programs and participants. A student MUST attend school the day of the sporting event to participate. Student-athletes are expected to be in good standing with attendance. Reaching Truancy Tier 1 may result in the dismissal from the team.

ATHLETICS IS A PRIVILEGE, NOT A RIGHT

No one is guaranteed a place on the team.
Students must be ready to meet the standards established by the school or face the possibility of not being a member of the team.
Talent alone will not be the sole criterion for selection. Other factors such as attitude, desire, cooperation, and self-discipline will play important parts.
Playing time is solely at the discretion of the coach.
The coach will address complaints only when the athletic director and/or another administrator are present.
Parents/legal guardians must refrain from making derogatory remarks about other parents, coaches, players, or the program.

Stairs and Elevator Usage

Students should go up and down the stairs in single file order staying to their right side. Students with physical handicaps sufficient to prevent safe use of the stairways are encouraged to use the elevator. Permission to use the elevator must be given by a school staff member such as a teacher, school nurse, or an administrator. One other student may provide assistance to a student whose handicaps prevent them from carrying books and other necessary articles on the elevator.

Enrolling and Withdrawing from School

The following is required for enrolling a student in any Johnson City School:

A withdrawal from the previous school.
A record of immunizations. Out-of-state students must have a Tennessee Certificate of Immunization, which can be obtained from the Washington County Health Department before entering school. In-state students have thirty (30) days to provide the school with proof of immunization.
A grade card for the present school year and/or a transcript of all work from the previous school that includes recent achievement test scores.
Proof of residence (2) inside city limits.

Any student who is planning to withdraw from school for any reason should report to the office for correct withdrawal procedures prior to the day of withdrawal. Students are expected to meet all obligations (return of books, uniforms, materials, chromebooks and chargers, and payment of fees and/or fines) before withdrawing.
If an in-district student moves out of the district, he/she will be immediately withdrawn from our rolls and the student must re-apply for admittance.

Grading System

A student’s evaluation (grade) is the teacher’s estimate of the student’s progress made as an individual and cannot appropriately be compared with the evaluation of another student. Inquiries about the educational program of the school are welcome. A student will receive an academic grade in each subject area each nine weeks.

A – Superior 90-100
B – Above Average 80-89
C – Average 70-79
D – Below Average 60-69
F – Failure 50-59
I – Incomplete
E – Excellent
S – Satisfactory
N – Needs Improvement
U – Unsatisfactory
Comment 1 – Effort
Comment 2 – Conduct

Honor Roll

All A’s
E or S on effort and conduct

Student scores on the TCAP in grades three through eight (3-8) could comprise fifteen percent (15%) of the student’s final grade for the fourth quarter in the subject areas of mathematics, reading /language arts, science and social studies. This determination will be made by the school board. (As cited in TN Senate Bill No. 3427 and JCS Board Policy 4.700)

Grading Dates

	Midterm Report	Report Card
1st 9 weeks	Sept. 2	Oct. 14
2nd 9 weeks	Nov. 11	Jan. 6
3rd 9 weeks	Feb. 3	Mar. 10
4th 9 weeks	Apr. 21	May 27

Student Placement

It is Indian Trail Middle School’s primary concern to challenge each student so that he/she will continue to experience academic growth. Students at each grade level vary in their background of skills and academic potential. A student’s grouping is based on achievement, tests of academic performance, and teacher recommendations. Student placement is at the discretion of the school administration.

Grievance Procedure

It is the policy of the Johnson City School System not to discriminate on the basis of sex, race, national origin, creed, age, or disability in its educational programs, activities or employment policies as required by federal law. Any student of Indian Trail Middle School who believes that he or she has been discriminated against, sexually harassed, denied a benefit, or excluded from participation in any educational programs or activities may file a written complaint with a school counselor. The counselors will consult with the administration if they feel further action on the grievance is necessary.

School Counseling Services

School Counseling services help each student with educational, social, emotional, and vocational development. Counselors are visible throughout the building, in classrooms, halls, and in the cafeteria. They are also available to provide counseling services in their offices daily. Counselors strive to meet students' needs and do their best to schedule counseling sessions in a timely manner.

The counselors may assist students in the following manner:

In recommending strategies to improve academic skills
In planning the students' academic path and preparing for the high school transition
In exploring career and post-secondary options
In navigating peer relationships
In offering peer mediation for conflict resolution
In helping students and families in contacting appropriate outside agencies

Students wishing to visit the counselors should first receive written permission from their teacher before contacting the counselor

Anti-Bullying Program

Indian Trail Middle School has developed an anti-bullying prevention program for our school. Bullying is defined as someone repeatedly and on purpose saying or doing mean or hurtful things to another person who has a hard time defending himself or herself.

Three Key Components of Bullying Behavior:

Involves aggressive behavior
Typically involves a pattern of behavior repeated over time
Imbalance of power or strength

Hall Passes

Students are required to have a hall pass when they are out of class unless accompanied by a teacher.

Homework

Students will be assigned student work/homework from individual teachers. It will be the student’s responsibility to check on missed assignments as soon as he/she returns to school. Missed assignments that are not made up or work failed to be turned in will affect the student’s final grade.

Leaving School

Students are not permitted to leave school grounds at any time during the school day without permission from the principal, assistant principal or other persons left in charge during their absence. Arrangements must be made by the parent prior to the student’s departure. Students should bring a note to the office by 7:40 a.m. to receive an early dismissal slip. When parents come to pick up their student, they must come in to the office and sign out their son or daughter. Please allow 5-10 minutes for students to get from their classroom to the office. Students not feeling well may only be sent home by the nurse after visiting the clinic.
Students will not be excused to attend activities at another school unless permission is received in advance from the principal.

Library/Media Center

The Indian Trail Middle School Library checks out materials to students to help with class assignments and for recreational reading. Students may visit the library individually or with a class for checkout. Chromebook distribution is also done through the library. Loaner Chromebooks may be borrowed for one day, when available. Replacement ID cards may be purchased in the library. Students are responsible for all items checked out from the library, as well as for payment of fines on overdue materials and payment for lost/damaged items. A student’s report card may be withheld when there is a fine or overdue book.

Chromebooks

Chromebooks
Each student is issued a Chromebook (CB) for use in all classes. Chromebooks are property of the Johnson City School system and are loaned (checked out) to you for the year. Damaging, defacing, or destroying your assigned CB will result in fines in the same manner as damage to library books.

Each student will receive training on how to use and care for a Chromebook. You will sign a CB guideline contract that will outline expectations for use and care of CBs at Indian Trail.

As an ITMS student trusted with a CB device, you are expected to:
Be prepared with the Chromebook, it is a school resource, and must be treated as such. That means you will:

Come to class with your Chromebook. It is as essential as pen and paper.
Bring the Chromebook to school fully charged so that it is prepared for a full day of use without need of interruption to charge.
Be responsible as to safeguard the Chromebook. This means you should always do your best to know where the device is, and that it is being handled properly.
Do not share your Chromebook with anyone. This includes siblings, parents or guardians, or friends. The Chromebook is a school issued device for educational use. Allowing a friend or a family member to use your Chromebook could be a risk to the safety of your Chromebook. The Chromebook contract explicitly states that you are responsible for your own Chromebook. Any damage that occurs, regardless of who was using it, is still the responsibility of the student.

LOST AND STOLEN CHROMEBOOKS:
“It is your responsibility to actively look for your CB if misplaced. Check the cafeteria, gym, lost & found in the office, each of your teachers’ classrooms, the tech team office, and any clubs or sports teams to which you belong.
Lost or stolen Chromebooks must be reported immediately to the library.
Lost Chromebooks will have a mandatory three (3) day wait period before district intervention is put in place. At this time all services will be removed from the device.
Stolen Chromebooks must have an accompanying police report.
Lost Chromebooks without a police report are treated in the same manner as a lost library book; the student is responsible for the replacement cost.

Damaged or Technical Problems with Chromebooks:
Any damage or operating difficulties that arise with your CB will be handled by the school Technology Assistant. No student should ever attempt to fix a CB or allow an outside person or company to work on a JC Schools/ITMS Chromebook. Teachers are responsible for completing a technology ticket for our Technology Assistant. After the teacher completes the ticket, the student will take the computer to the Technology Assistant for repair.

Technology Acceptable Use Policy

Indian Trail Middle School is proud to provide students access to many different forms of technology. In order to provide a safe and effective learning environment, it is necessary to define the acceptable uses of this technology for students and parents. Before any student is allowed use of the school system’s internet or intranet access, a written parental consent shall be signed by parents and student. Any student who accesses the district’s computer system for any purpose agrees to be bound by the terms of that agreement, even if no signed written agreement is on file. The permission/agreement form will be sent home at the beginning of the school year.

To avoid software viruses, students may not take computer programs, CDs or flash/thumb drives back and forth between school and outside of school computers.

Purpose of AI Use

I understand the purpose of using AI tools is to support my learning rather than replace it. I will use JCS approved AI tools as a resource to assist me, rather than as a substitute for my own work. My use of AI will focus on developing my digital literacy skills by:

Brainstorming and organizing ideas
Improving my writing and enhancing creativity
Supporting critical thinking and conducting research

Available Resources & Safety
I agree to follow these safety and privacy protocols:

I will only use school-approved platforms (such as Magic School, Gemini for Edu, Wayground, Canva, Curipod, Kira, or Adobe Express) found in the single sign-on portal.
I will consult with my teacher to ensure AI use is acceptable on classroom assignments.
I will use my school-issued device while logged into my school-issued account.
I will never input my name, student ID, or any other personal information into an AI tool.

Academic Expectations
I understand that academic integrity is imperative.

Not Acceptable: I will not submit full AI-written work or use faked citations. I understand that submitting AI-written work as my own constitutes plagiarism and may be subject to school disciplinary rules.
Acceptable Uses: It is acceptable to use AI for grammar fixes, summaries, brainstorming, creating visuals, and conducting research.
Verification: I will always check my sources for accuracy. If I am ever unsure if my use of AI constitutes cheating or plagiarism, I will discuss it with my teacher.

Transparency Requirement

If I use AI for an assignment, I will clearly disclose my usage by providing the following information:

The specific resource used.
The input or directions I provided to the AI.
Identify what I kept from the AI output and what I changed.
Describe how I verified the accuracy of the information.

Commitment

I agree to review these guidelines before beginning any project. I recognize that AI technology is evolving and that this agreement may change. I will always consult with my teacher to understand specific classroom expectations regarding AI use.

Lockers

At the beginning of the school year, students will be assigned a locker. This is a safe place to keep their supplies and personal items. Personal locks may not be used on lockers. It is the student’s responsibility to keep their locker in good order and locked. Locker decorations must not interfere with the normal function of the locker. Periodic checks to see that the lockers are being kept neat and in good condition will be made by the home base teachers. Leaving book bags in classroom aisles is not permitted (Fire Code Requirement). Therefore, due to space limitations, book bags must be kept in lockers throughout the school day.

Lockers should be closed and locked after each use. Do not leave your locker ajar by placing paper, pencils, etc. in the door or lock. This allows others access to your property. Lockers are school property and are subject to search by school staff. School authorities may also search personal belongings such as book bags, backpacks, coats, etc. when necessary.

Please be sure to lock your locker after using it. Check each time to make sure it is locked. Do not share your locker or lock combination with anyone.

Backpacks

Students need to make sure backpacks are small enough to fit into their lockers. Students are advised to go to their lockers before dismissal and to take home only books and materials needed for homework that night.

Parent note concerning backpacks: If you notice your child’s pack is heavy, the following are some questions to ask to help them lessen the load:

Is he/she leaving unnecessary books at school?
Is there a reason he/she is not returning to his/her locker to deposit the heavy books before the end of the day?
Is he/she using all the materials nightly?
Check with the team teachers if you are concerned about the continued weight of the pack.

Lost and Found

If you lose something at school, please report it to your teacher and check in the cafeteria to see if it has been found. Students who find lost articles are asked to take them to the lost and found area in the cafeteria where their owner can claim them. Articles turned in and not claimed will be donated to charity at the end of each nine weeks period.

Parent Conferences

Indian Trail Middle School encourages parents and teachers to meet and discuss a child’s progress. We encourage parents of a student with a problem to call the school office to schedule a conference with the teaching team. The guidance counselors and principals are also available to help resolve difficulties.

La persona de contacto para las familias que no hablan inglés es Fernando De Sousa. Èl puede ser contactado al (423) 434-6182.

Physical Education

“Dressing out” for PE will not be required. However, it is required that students wear solid athletic shoes for physical education classes. Our PE program is a comprehensive “wellness” program and offers many innovative and exciting personal and team skills. If a student is unable to participate, a physician’s excuse is required and must state the student’s physical limitations in sufficient detail for development of an adaptive physical education program.

Textbooks

Textbooks are furnished by the school and are issued at the beginning of the school year. Teachers conduct book checks each nine weeks to assure that students have their materials. At the end of the school year, books should reflect normal use.

School Closing and Early Dismissal

In the event of bad weather or mechanical breakdown, school may be delayed, closed or dismissed early. Delayed openings, school closings, or early dismissals will be announced over the local television and radio stations, school messenger and/or text alerts from local TV stations. If no report is heard, school will be in session. We may have a delayed opening, which means school would begin two hours later (9:40 a.m.). If school is delayed by two hours due to inclement weather, the buses are also delayed by the same amount of time. Every family should have a plan that will go into effect if school is dismissed early. It is impossible for every student to use the phones to make arrangements when this situation arises.

Johnson City Transit Bus Policy Phone Number 423-929-7119

In the morning, students will board their assigned bus only at the proper loading stop and get off only at Indian Trail Middle School. In the afternoon, students will board their assigned bus only at Indian Trail Middle School and get off only at their appropriate stops.
Appropriate conduct will be expected in the bus loading areas.
Only small items may be taken on buses. Students need to make arrangements with parents to transport medium or large items to and from school.
Students will not be permitted to carry food or drink items home from school on the bus.
Students will be directed to call from the main office or their classroom if they miss the bus at the end of the school day.
Students must bring a note that has been signed by their parents if they ride any bus other than their normal bus.
All school conduct rules apply to students riding the bus.
Bus privileges may be suspended for violations of the rules.

Bus Safety Complaint Procedure

The following procedure will govern how students, teachers, staff, and community members shall submit bus safety complaints:

All complaints shall be submitted to the transportation supervisor by calling the transportation office at 423-794-2360 or email VanthornoutT@jcschools.org.
When calling with a complaint please provide if possible the bus number, time of day, and location of bus. Example: Bus number 22, at 3:30pm, corner of Maple Street and South Roan Street.

As governed by law the transportation supervisor shall begin an investigation of all bus safety complaints within twenty-four (24) hours of complaint.

Drop Off Areas for Cars

Students may be dropped off in the front or back of the building. If the line backs up in the mornings, you may be directed to the back. Our goal is to keep the line moving as quickly as possible. For student safety, do not drop students off in the staff parking area. Do not drop students off in the bus loading/unloading area.

Car Line Dismissal

Parent Procedures
All vehicles must have CAR DISMISSAL CARD with the Indian Trail decal. Place it on the left-hand side of your dashboard (driver’s side) of your car. If the card is not in your window, you will be asked to park and go to the office to sign your student(s) out.

Dismissal begins at 2:35 pm. All students will be dismissed through the school radio system.
Only the Car Rider Lane is used to pick up students. Drivers should not park or leave their vehicles in the Car Rider Loading Zone.
Drivers should proceed slowly toward the Car Rider Loading Zone. Drivers should proceed to the indicated number given. Please refrain from using your cellphone while vehicles are moving.
Students will only be loaded once ALL vehicles within the Car Rider Loading Zone have stopped.
Teachers will call and direct students to enter designated cars at the designated number (painted in white on the ground).
When all cars have been filled, drivers will be directed to exit the Car Rider Loading Zone. The next set of cars will be directed to move up to the indicated zone.
Teacher parking area, side or bus parking area, and bus lane are not to be used for student pickup.
All students must be picked up by 3:05 pm unless prior arrangements have been made.

Student Procedures

Students will sit by grade level.
Students may NOT leave their designated seating area until their name has been called.
If a student is not in the car dismissal area, the parent/guardian will be required to pull to the end of the Car Rider Loading Zone and wait for their child to arrive.
Unacceptable student behavior during car rider dismissal such as being loud and/or horseplay may result in consequences.

Discipline

Rules are necessary when a group as large as ours works together for a school year. You will have no trouble living by these rules if you are courteous to both students and teachers and respect the rights of others. At Indian Trail Middle School, an important part of education is learning to get along with others.

All Indian Trail Middle School rules apply:

At all school-sponsored activities regardless of location;
Going to and from school, including the bus stop areas.

Indian Trail Middle School has adopted a positive approach to discipline. The staff, administration, and school board have developed and approved a “Student Code of Conduct” which emphasizes student responsibility for behavior and consistent consequences for rule violations. This positive approach attempts to help people eliminate self-defeating behavior and involves the student and teacher in making a plan for improvement of behavior. If a student violates classroom or school rules, that student may be isolated from other classmates until an acceptable plan is worked out and approved.

Depriving a disruptive student of peer contact and providing a quiet place for study and reflection on the inappropriate behavior benefits not only the student involved but also the class by removing the disruptive student. Teachers are available for scheduled conferences before school, after school, and during their planning period to provide help with both academic and behavior problems.

An isolation area is also used as alternative placement. Alternative placement may be more beneficial than out-of-school suspension because the student can keep up with his/her studies, receive proper supervision, and be present at school.

One or more violations will result in disciplinary action. Consideration will be made for the situation and degree of infraction. Disciplinary options may include a talk with the student, a letter or telephone call to parents, parent conferences, referral to the guidance counselor or outside agency, isolation, suspension, after school detention, behavior contracts, restitution, school service work, or other appropriate consequences. A cumulative disciplinary record will be kept on file.

Behaviors related to school violence will be investigated by our school/district threat assessment team:

"Any written, verbal, or physical communication or concerning behavior that conveys an intent to harm someone else or commit an act of school violence, as determined by the school / district Threat Assessment Team, may result in disciplinary action. Per Tennessee Code Annotated, a School Resource Officer will be a member of the school and district threat assessment teams. T.C.A. § 49-6-2701(b)."

Examples of other violations are (but are not limited to):

Cheating is defined as engaging in deception or dishonest practices in an effort to earn grades or receive unmerited awards. The term cheating shall apply to all dishonest practices in connection with testing and other activities involving schoolwork. Cheating also includes allowing another student to copy one’s work or test. Any photo imaging, electronic transfer, or texting will not be tolerated. Students involved in cheating will receive the following consequences:

*First Offense:

Teacher will conference with the student and discuss academic dishonesty
Teacher will notify parent/guardian and make a referral to administration
1 week of lunch detention will be assigned
Athletic coaches and extracurricular sponsors will be notified of academic dishonesty by administration
Students will be allowed to redo the same or equivalent assignment for half credit

*Further Offenses:

Parent/guardian , coaches, and the student’s principal will be notified of further offense by the teacher
Student will be assigned 1 day of ISS
Student will NOT be allowed to redo the assignment and the student will receive a grade of 0

Cutting Class - any student caught cutting class will receive lunch detention or in-school suspension (ISS)
Display of affection (such as embracing, kissing, handholding, etc.)
Throwing snowballs
Violation of dress policy
Gambling
Use of vulgar or profane language
Forgery
Visible body markings
Immoral or disreputable conduct
Possession and/or use of fireworks
Truancy
Persistent violation of school rules
Stealing or possession of stolen property
Not attending assigned classes
Refusing to give identity when asked by faculty
Disrespect or disobedience to faculty, staff, or school authorities
Destruction of school property or property of others
Inciting, advising or counseling others to violate school rules
Abuse of other students (fighting, hazing, threatening, extortion, etc.) including while going to and from school as well as at school
Out of area violations before, during or at the end of the day
Inappropriate internet usage
Displaying or using gang symbols
AWOL (Absent Without Leave)
Use or possession of intoxicants or illegal drugs on school property or in any vehicle used to transport students to school events, or attendance at school events while under the influence of intoxicants. Violators will be reported to police according to state law.
Leaving school without permission.
Violence or threatened violence against school personnel and/or assaulting school personnel with vulgar or obscene language.
Refusing to accept the consequences for one’s action or refusing to follow instructions of the school staff.
Possession and/or use of chains or weapons.
Sexual harassment or bullying
Any gang related actions including dress or signs.

Alcohol, Drug, Tobacco, Weapons, and Batter Policy

Alcohol and Drug

Any student using, possessing, or furnishing to another student, alcohol, drugs, or drug paraphernalia at any school-related activity whether on or off campus will be suspended from regular school for a period of one year. The Superintendent may modify the suspension on a case-by-case basis. During this time, the principal may permit a student to enter the system’s alternative school under specified terms and conditions. Any student found in violation of the above-described alcohol and drug policy for a second time shall be suspended from school attendance and is not eligible for enrollment in the alternative school. If a student receives any remuneration whatsoever, whether monetary or otherwise, for furnishing alcohol, drugs, drug paraphernalia, or substances represented to be unlawful to another student at any school-related activity whether on or off campus, the said student will be suspended from school attendance and will not be eligible for enrollment in the alternative school.

For the purpose of this policy, the following definitions shall apply:
“Alcohol” means and includes alcohol, spirits, liquor, wine, and every liquid containing alcohol, spirits, and wine and capable of being consumed by a human being. It specifically includes patented medicine, unless written permission by the principal is received prior to bringing the medicine to any school-related activity. It further includes being irrespective of alcoholic content.

“Drugs” mean and include all substances defined as drugs or regulated or controlled by the Tennessee Drug Control Act of 1989 (Tenn. Code Ann. Chapter 53, parts 3 and 4, and Chapter 39, part 17) including any amendments effective at the time of the incident. Without limiting the above definition, “drugs” shall specifically include the possession of any glue, paint, gasoline, aerosol, chlorofluorocarbon gas, or other substance containing or having the property of releasing fumes which can cause a condition of intoxication, inebriation, elation, dizziness, excitement, stupefaction, paralysis, or the dulling of the brain or nervous system or disturbing or distorting of the audio or visual processes.
“Drug paraphernalia” means all equipment products and materials of any kind which are used, intended for use, or designed for use in planting, propagating, cultivating, growing, harvesting, manufacturing, compounding, converting, producing, processing, preparing, testing, analyzing, packaging, repackaging, storing, containing, concealing, injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human body, a drug as defined in this policy.

Weapons and Dangerous Instruments

Students shall not possess, handle, transmit, or attempt to use any dangerous weapons, when at any school-related activity on or off campus. Students are further forbidden to use any other instrument or substance in a manner which renders the item dangerous or with the intent to do harm to another person or property. Violators of this policy will be suspended from regular school attendance for one year. The Superintendent may modify this suspension on a case-by-case basis. Threats (verbal or written) are considered under this policy and are subject to the same disciplinary actions.

Battery on Staff

A student threatening or committing battery upon any teacher, principal, administrator, or any other employee of the school system shall be suspended for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. The Superintendent may modify this suspension on a case-by-case basis.

Tobacco

Students of any age are forbidden to use or possess tobacco or any tobacco-like substitute, in any form, while at school or while participating in any school-sponsored activity, at school or away. This includes electronic cigarettes or Vaping devices. Offenders may receive in school or out of school suspensions and will be charged for violation of Tennessee Law. Repeated offenses and consequences will be at the discretion of the principal.

School Wide Discipline Plan

Indian Trail Middle School follows a school-wide behavior plan.

Indian Trail Middle School-Wide Expectations

Expectation	Hallway	Cafeteria	Restroom	Classroom
Be Ready	Have appropriate material during transitions Be on time	Have money and ID ready Keep account current Make choices quickly Follow dismissal procedures	Get permission and return to class promptly Make use of planned restroom breaks	Follow the dress code at all times Attend school daily and be on time Be prepared with materials
Be Respectful	Use appropriate voice level Maintain your personal space Use appropriate voice level Maintain your personal space	Wait patiently in line Be courteous and kind to all staff members	Put paper towels in the trash can Keep water in sink Clean up after self Flush toilet Respect others’ privacy	Clean up after yourself Use appropriate voice level at all times Use appropriate language Respect others’ personal belongings
Be Responsible	Stay on the right side of the hall Go directly to your destination Be in the hall only with permission	Find seat quickly and remain seated while eating Clean up after yourself	Use facility quickly and quietly Report problems or inappropriate situations to staff	Follow directions the first time asked Complete all assignments Usee school property as intended Notify adults of unsafe conditions

Behavior Mark Scale and Consequences

Number of marks	Conduct Grade	Consequence
3	Excellent Behavior	Team/student conference, parent notification by phone (teacher) and 3 days of lunch detention.
6	Satisfactory	After school detention and parent notification by phone (admin).
9	Needs Improvement	Counselor/RTI-B conference with student to develop a Behavior Contract. Parent notification by Counselor/RTI-B.
12	Unsatisfactory	ISS/Loss of team awards - field trips. Parent notification of ISS by phone (admin).
15	Unsatisfactory	ISS (2 days). Parent/Administrator Conference.
18	Unsatisfactory	ISS (3 days). Parent notification by phone (admin).
21+	Unsatisfactory	Administrative referral to determine next step and appropriate consequence.

**Grade levels have the option to separate out marks into two categories: academic and behavior. 5 academic marks will result in 1 behavior mark. Teams will communicate to parents their grade level’s procedure.

*If conduct is severe or becomes repetitive, ITMS follows a Discipline Crosswalk which addresses consequences regarding student conduct

Key for School-Wide Marks

Number	Description
1	Unprepared
2	Effort
3	Insubordination
4	Disruption of learning
5	Disrespectful
6	Related Arts Class
7	Other