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March 22nd, 2023

Information for Families on TCAP Assessments in April

The Tennessee TCAP assessments (state standardized tests) will be administered in CMCSS beginning April 17, 2023.

  • Students in grades 3-5 will be completing the paper-pencil version of TCAP Achievement for English Language Arts, Math, and Science.
  • Students in grades 6-8 will be completing the computer-based version of the TCAP Achievement for English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies.
  • Students in high school who are currently enrolled in Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, English I, English II, US History, and/or Biology will be completing the computer-based version of the TCAP EOC.

State law (T.C.A. § 49-1-617) establishes that the state assessments shall comprise a percentage, between 15% and 25%, of a student’s final grade for the spring semester. In CMCSS (policy INS-A023), it is 15%. Students absent on the day of testing receive a zero, following the attendance policy for excused and unexcused absences. Makeup opportunities are provided within the testing window.

NEW this year: Tennessee state law provides all students the opportunity to request additional time for completing TCAP assessments if needed. Teachers will provide students a reminder during each subtest of the TCAP to simply raise their hand if they feel they need a few extra moments to finish. The additional time available is equal to 20% of the time allotted for the test section being completed, which is approximately 5 to 17 minutes depending on the content area and subtest. Parents may also make the request for the additional time for their student by submitting a letter of request to the principal at their child’s school by Thursday, April 6. Students who are finished with the assessment or have submitted the computer-based assessment have acknowledged they do not need the additional time.

All students have the right to meaningful access and opportunities for participation in instruction. The strategies, accessibility, and accommodations used during instruction need to also be available to the greatest extent possible for assessments. Federal and state law require all public-school students in Tennessee, regardless of background, to be included in annual summative assessments. There are no opt-out options provided for state assessments in Tennessee. Students absent on the day of testing receive a zero, following the attendance policy for excused and unexcused absences. Makeup opportunities are provided within the testing window.

For more information on the TCAP testing schedule in CMCSS, click here.


December 8th, 2022

2023-2024 Zoning Recommendation

At the CMCSS School Board Study Session on Dec. 6, 2022, Chief Operations Officer Norm Brumblay presented the zoning recommendation for elementary, middle, and high school zone boundaries for the 2023-2024 school year. The recommendation was made by the CMCSS Zoning Project Team in accordance with the established guidelines:

  • Ensure equitable distribution of resources according to the learning needs of all students
  • Consider the proximity of students to existing schools
  • Move as few students as possible
  • Transport students the least distance possible
  • Consider the BEP capacity and percent-utilization of existing facilities
  • Allow for future growth where possible (based on Planning Commission lot and permit data)

Taking these guidelines into consideration, the Zoning Project Team made the following recommendation to the School Board:

  • Elementary: no changes to elementary school zone boundaries for the 2023-2024 school year.
  • Middle: no changes to middle school zone boundaries for the 2023-2024 school year.
  • High: implement the high school rezoning boundaries that were approved in February 2022 with the opening of Kirkwood High School for the 2023-2024 school year. 
    • Families of students enrolled in grades 9-11 who reside at addresses affected by high school rezoning received communications in October about options. Families of current 8th-grade students cannot opt out of high school rezoning.
  • Portables will be used to balance capacities across all school zones.

Click here to review the presentation from Dec. 6, 2022.

To provide feedback on this recommendation, please click here. The deadline to provide feedback is Jan. 2, 2023.

A public hearing will be held on Jan. 3, 2023, at 5:30 p.m., and a final zoning recommendation will be presented to the School Board on Jan. 17, 2023, for approval.


August 30th, 2022

CMCSS Football Spectator Policy

CMCSS strongly believes in the importance of interscholastic athletic events and welcoming the community onto our campuses. However, providing a safe and secure environment on our campuses must always be the top priority. In an effort to improve safety and security, the following policies will be implemented for all spectators at high school football games on our campuseseffective immediatelyInitially, the following policies are only for football games due to the number of spectators; however, policies for other athletic events at the high school and middle school levels will be evaluated and communicated ahead of those seasons.

  • Bag Policy: CMCSS strongly encourages spectators not to bring any bags. The following is the bag policy for all spectators:
    • One (1) clear tote bag (plastic, vinyl, or PVC) per person is permitted.
      • Clear totes should not exceed 12″ x 6″ x 12,” and schools have the discretion to prohibit any oversized clear tote bags.
    • One (1) one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziplock bag or similar) per person is permitted.
    • Clear bags cannot be tinted or have large graphics that obstruct visibility.
    • Approved family care items (diapers, formula, etc.) must be included in the clear plastic tote bag
    • All bags are subject to be searched.
    • Prohibited items: include, but are not limited to: purses, fanny packs, backpacks, duffel bags, coolers, briefcases, diaper bags, cinch bags, luggage of any kind, and computer bags.
    • Exceptions: students participating in the event (athletes, cheerleaders, musicians, etc.), officials/referees, and CMCSS employees or employees from visiting out-of-district schools may bring bags that are necessary for the event. Bags necessary for approved medical equipment are permitted.
  • Adult Supervision Policy: Children who are middle-school age or younger must be accompanied by an adult, preferably a parent/guardian, for entry into the athletic event.
    • High-school-age students from the home school, visiting school, or community may attend the game without being accompanied by an adult.
    • Anyone who violates CMCSS rules will be removed from the event and/or banned from attending events. Law enforcement and/or school officials will contact parents/guardians of students/juveniles and there could be school-based (for students) and/or criminal consequences for offenses in the Student Code of Conduct and/or breaking the law.
  • No Re-Entry Policy: CMCSS will continue to enforce a no re-entry policy in all athletic venues. If a spectator leaves the venue, they will not be readmitted, unless there are extenuating circumstances as approved by school officials. Spectators must purchase tickets via GoFan. Tickets will not be sold on-site.
  • Increased Law Enforcement: In collaboration with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and the Clarksville Police Department, there will be additional officers employed at every athletic event, in the venue and around the campus. Please note: all persons, personal items, and vehicles are subject to be searched on school property.
  • Limiting Capacities: Depending on multiple factors, including venue capacity, availability of law enforcement and emergency medical services, and anything deemed a safety or security risk, capacities could be limited and ticket sales restricted. CMCSS offers streaming of most high school athletic events via NFHS Network.

Notice: At the discretion of school officials, additional policies or modifications to the above policies may be implemented and enforced.


August 1st, 2022

ESSER Health & Safety and Budget Plan Feedback

To review the CMCSS 2022-2023 In-Person Learning COVID-19 Overview and provide feedback, click here.

To review the CMCSS ESSER 3.0 Funds Allocation and provide feedback, click here.


July 26th, 2022

Special Education and 504 Records Disposition Notice

Special Education Records

In accordance with the state and federal regulations implementing the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), this is to inform you of the Clarksville-Montgomery School System’s intent to destroy personally identifiable information related to special education records maintained for students who were evaluated and/or served for special education services while attending the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System, but who are no longer enrolled. Records will be held through the individual’s age of 25. The destruction will occur after the individual’s 26th birthday.

If you wish to maintain this information for your personal records, you must notify Clarksville- Montgomery County School System upon receipt of this notice; otherwise, the information will be destroyed June 30th of every year.

Special Education Record Procedure: https://employees.cmcss.net/misc/ViewISO?filename=SPE-P007.pdf

 

Section 504 Records

In accordance with the state and federal regulations, this is to inform you of the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System’s intent to destroy personally identifiable information related to Section 504 education records maintained for students who were evaluated and/or received Section 504 services under a Section 504 Plan while attending the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System, but who are no longer enrolled. The records will be destroyed five (5) years after a student has transferred out of the school system, the death of a student, or the student’s graduation.

If you wish to maintain this information for your personal records, you must notify Clarksville Montgomery County School System upon receipt of this notice; otherwise, the information will be destroyed June 30th of every year.

Section 504 Record Procedure: https://employees.cmcss.net/misc/ViewISO?filename=INS-P043.pdf

 

Please be advised that the records may be needed by you for applying for Social Security Benefits, rehabilitation services, college entrance or other purposes.

 Records to be destroyed are as follows:

  • Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
  • Section 504 Plans
  • Evaluation Reports – Test Protocol
  • Notification of Meetings
  • Review of Existing Data Summaries
  • Notices of Action
  • All other personally identifiable information within the Special Education or Section 504 file

 

*For Special Education: The reason for the destruction of the above-listed items is because they are no longer needed to provide educational services for the individual or valid information after the individual’s 26th birthday.

*For Section 504: The reason for the destruction of the above-listed items is because they are no longer needed to provide educational services for the individual or valid information after the individual transferred out of the school system, the death of an individual, or the individual’s graduation.

*The district will maintain a permanent record, without time limitation, of a student’s name, address and phone number, his/her grades, attendance record, classes attended, grade level completed, the year completed and a letter stating that the student was eligible and/or received special education or Section 504 services in CMCSS. These records should be requested from the Clarksville Montgomery County School System Student Records Office at (931) 542-5051.

Student Record Inquiry Process: https://employees.cmcss.net/misc/ViewISO?filename=REC-P002.pdf

 

Records Request

Special Populations: You may contact the Department of Special Populations’ Records at (931) 553-1160 or 1312 State Hwy 48, Clarksville, Tennessee 37040 to obtain your special education records.

Section 504: You may contact the District 504 Coordinator at (931) 553-1155 or 1312 State Hwy 48, Clarksville, Tennessee 37040 to obtain your Section 504 records.

 

 Please be advised, that you must show a picture ID before records will be released.

 If you are the conservator for an individual, you must show your ID and legal conservatorship documentation.

 


July 21st, 2022

Family Guide to the Start of School (2022-23 School Year)

Excited for the 2022-2023 school year to start? Here’s what you need to know!

Before School


Communications from Schools and the District

Freshman Orientation

Immunizations

Kindergarten Information

Open Houses

Registering for School

Safety and Security

School Supplies

Student Code of Conduct

Tax-Free Weekend

During the School Year

When does school start?

What is my child being taught?

What is RTI2?

Attendance Policy

Graduation Information

Inclement Weather Days

School Breakfast and Lunch

Social and Emotional Learning

Student Transportation

Unplanned School Closings

Before School Begins

How do I register my child?

If your kindergarten through 12th-grade student is new to Clarksville-Montgomery County Schools or is transferring between schools, enroll online by visiting https://parents.cmcss.net.

The Enrollment Center serves as a centralized location for parents and guardians to register their children and gather documents, resources, and support for the enrollment process. The CMCSS Enrollment Center, located at 430 Greenwood Ave., is open M-F, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., throughout the calendar year when district offices are open. Parents and guardians are able to begin the registration process at the Enrollment Center, including the ability to submit important registration documents such as birth certificates, health forms, statement of residence, etc., which will be scanned and sent electronically to the school at which the child is zoned. Parents and guardians still have the option to complete the enrollment process at their child’s zoned school when buildings are open and staff is available. School offices reopen on July 21.
Visit cmcss.net/registration for more information.

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How do I stay connected with communications from my child’s school and the district?

CMCSS families are encouraged to sign up for PowerSchool and SchoolMessenger notifications. These are the primary means of communication from both school-based administrators and the District. Families will receive everything from inclement weather messages to instruction updates. You can download the PowerSchool Mobile app (free) on any Android or iOS device, including Apple Watch, and sign up for text alerts, too.

Please note that families will receive communications over the coming days and weeks regarding electronic forms for 1:1 technology, emergency cards, the Student Code of Conduct, health assessments, and other important topics. Reminders will be sent until the forms are completed. Contact your child’s enrolled school if you need paper forms or have questions about the forms.

UPDATE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION: Throughout the year, if a parent or guardian needs to update his or her contact information, please visit CMCSS Parent Self-Service and click the “Update Student Information” tile to enter new contact information.

CMCSS ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Follow CMCSS on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @cmcssinfo. Subscribe to the district’s Focus Video YouTube Channel @cmcssfocus.

For the directions below, please note that PowerSchool will be enabled on August 5, 2022. If you do not already have an account, please check back on or after August 5 to create an account.

CREATING A POWERSCHOOL ACCOUNT: To create a PowerSchool account, visit powerschool.cmcss.net, click the Create Account tab, and complete the form. You can find your child’s Access ID by visiting parent.cmcss.net and click on Get Student Security Info.

POWERSCHOOL MOBILE APP: The PowerSchool app is a free and convenient resource for families to review their child’s academic progress. Once you set up an account using the directions above, download the app from the App Store or Google Play. Use CMCSS’ district code P Z Q N when you register.

SCHOOLMESSENGER TEXT ALERTS: Once you’re registered in PowerSchool, text (Y) to (67587) and opt-in to mobile messaging.

*Messaging and data rates may apply.

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What school supplies will my child need?

A great way to start the school year is to have your child prepared. Click here for a list of supplies needed for elementary students. The supplies will be collected and stored for classroom use. Depending upon usage, at some point during the school year, students may need to replenish their supplies. Additionally, sometimes teachers may request other items, depending on the curriculum.

Middle and High Schools have more differences in supply lists, so it’s best to wait until students receive the list from their teacher.

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When is Tennessee Tax-Free Weekend?

The state of Tennessee’s annual sales tax holiday is held every year, beginning at 12:01 a.m. on the last Friday in July and ending at 11:59 p.m. the following Sunday night. During this weekend, certain goods may be purchased tax-free. The 2022 tax-free holiday weekend begins at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, July 29, and ends Sunday, July 31 at 11:59 p.m.

Click here for more information about the sales tax holiday from the TN Department of Revenue.

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When are Open Houses at the school?

Elementary School Open Houses, or “Back to School Nights,” are Fri., Aug. 5 from 5-7 p.m.

Middle School Open Houses will be on Thurs., Aug. 18 from 5-7 p.m.

High School Open Houses will be on Thurs., Aug. 25 from 5-7 p.m.

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What information do families with a kindergartener need to know?

Elementary School Open Houses are a great time to visit with your child’s teacher, tour the school, and learn about a typical kindergarten day.

All kindergarteners will attend the half day of school on Monday, August 8. Each elementary school will host its first day of school in a manner best suited for its families. While it is not required that families attend the entire half day, some may choose to do so.
Schools will communicate individually with families regarding kindergarten flex days (Aug. 11-12 & 15-16). Your child will be scheduled to come into school on one of the four days following August 8. All kindergarteners will then begin school on Wednesday, August 17 for their first full day of school.

Click here for more information about kindergarten.

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When is Freshman Orientation?

Ninth graders will be contacted soon by their enrolled schools regarding the details of their Freshman Orientation on Fri., Aug. 5 in the morning.

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What are the state requirements on immunizations?

Click here for CMCSS Health Services related information, including information on immunizations.

If your student qualifies for a Medical or Religious Exemption, please see our admission policy and Religious Exemption form on the district website (HEA-F092)

For information regarding Meningococcal and Influenza immunizations, please refer to the Health Services page. TN Code § 49-6-5005 states that schools must provide parents and guardians with information about meningococcal disease and the effectiveness of vaccination against meningococcal disease at the beginning of every school year.

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What school safety and security protocols does CMCSS have in place?

Student safety has been, is, and will always be CMCSS’ top priority. To provide families with more information about CMCSS’ school safety and security protocols, the District is finalizing a School Safety Hub for families that will be launched and communicated to all stakeholders in the coming days.

We ask all families to please talk to their children about the importance of immediately reporting any safety concern to a teacher, administrator, SRO, or other trusted adult. Whether it is on social media or in the schoolhouse, if you see or hear something, say something. Additionally, it is important that families read the Student Code of Conduct, reinforce positive behaviors with students, and explain the consequences, including potential criminal charges, for offenses.

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What is the Student Code of Conduct?

The Student Code of Conduct communicates the rights, responsibilities, rules, and due process procedures for CMCSS students. The Code of Conduct applies to any student who is on school property, who is on a school bus or at a school bus stop, who is in attendance at school or at any school-sponsored activity/program, or whose conduct at any time or place (i.e., off-campus conduct) has a direct and immediate effect on maintaining order and discipline in the schools. This includes all social media.

Annually, families are required to acknowledge that they have read the Student Code of Conduct. The Technology Department will send electronic acknowledgment forms to all families at the beginning of the year. Families need to ensure their contact information is up-to-date. See the “How do I stay connected with communications from my child’s school and the district?” section above for directions on how to update contact information.

With the escalating student behaviors observed over the past few years, it is extremely important that families read the Student Code of Conduct, reinforce positive behaviors with students, and explain the consequences, including potential criminal charges, for offenses.

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During the School Year

When does school start?

Monday, Aug. 8 is the first half day, and Thursday, Aug. 11 is the first full day.

Aug. 9-10 are Staff Development Days. These are important days for staff to make adjustments to class rosters, schedules, transportation routes, and other logistics after the first half day when many new students will arrive at school who have not pre-registered. Please see below for information on how to register.

Visit cmcss.net/calendars for the 2022-2023 school year calendar. With a generous sponsorship from Jostens, the CMCSS Communications Department will provide a printed calendar for the 2022-2023 school year. These calendars will be arriving soon at the homes of enrolled students. Due to production and shipping delays, these calendars may not arrive before the first week of school, but a digital copy is available online. We apologize for the inconvenience!

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How can I find out what my child is being taught throughout the school year?

CMCSS teaches the Tennessee State Standards as approved by the State Board of Education. The CMCSS Instruction & Curriculum Department developed the Parent Academic Resources Hub to share the instructional units, unit pacing guides, and standards with parents and students so they know what is being taught throughout the year.

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What is RTI²?

Response to instruction and intervention (RTI²) is the way CMCSS intervenes with students who are struggling academically by focusing on quality core instruction and intervention of specific skill deficits. The purpose of RTI² is to intervene with students quickly in the area of need so skill deficit gaps do not develop as they progress through school. Please click here for more information.

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Will school breakfast and lunch meals be free again for all students in the 2022-2023 school year?

The USDA has not indicated that they will be extending the waiver for school districts to continue offering no-cost meals to all students for the 2022-2023 school year. For the past two school years, CMCSS has been able to provide breakfast and lunch meals at no cost to all students each school day because of the USDA’s waivers.

It is extremely important that all families who believe their children qualify for free or reduced meals complete the application for the 2022-2023 school year, beginning Monday, July 18, 2022. An application can be completed online at www.schoolcafe.com, the fastest and preferred method, or a paper application can be picked up at a student’s enrolled school. Applications must be submitted and approved each school year for a student to receive benefits. You will need your student’s school ID number for the online application. If you do not know their student ID, please contact your child’s school.

At this time, unless CMCSS receives notification otherwise from the USDA, the district will be required to return to its normal meal payment methods this school year. Below are the meal prices, which have not increased since 2018:

Elementary Student Meal Prices

  • Breakfast (Full Pay): $1.00
  • Breakfast (Reduced): $0.30
  • Lunch (Full Pay): $2.65
  • Lunch (Reduced): $0.40

Secondary Student Meal Prices

  • Breakfast (Full Pay): $1.15
  • Breakfast (Reduced): $0.30
  • Lunch (Full Pay): $2.85
  • Lunch (Reduced): $0.40

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When and where are 2023 graduations?
All ceremonies will take place at Austin Peay State University in the Dunn Center.

Wednesday, May 24

Middle College – 10 a.m.
Adult Education – 12 p.m.
CMCSS K-12 Virtual – 2 p.m.
CMCSS Adult High School – 4 p.m.

Thursday, May 25

Clarksville High School – 4 p.m.
Northwest High School – 7 p.m.

Friday, May 26

Northeast High School – 4 p.m.
Montgomery Central High School – 7 p.m.

Saturday, May 27

Kenwood High School – 9 a.m.
West Creek High School – 12 p.m.
Rossview High School – 3 p.m.

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How does CMCSS address Social and Emotional Learning?

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.

Addressing the social and emotional needs of students is a primary focus for CMCSS. All schools continue to assess and address the resources and support available to ensure they meet students’ social and emotional needs. This focus extends to teachers, counselors, and staff. Connection with students includes classroom lessons, small group counseling, and individualized counseling.

Resources are available to families via the district website. For more information, visit www.cmcss.net/sel.

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What is the attendance policy?

Regular attendance is important to the success of our students. Consistent attendance in an educational setting provides students with a strong foundation for the school year.

The Compulsory School Attendance Law in Tennessee (T.C.A. §49-6-3001) requires children (ages 6-17 inclusive) to attend school each day. Students who accumulate five (5) days of unexcused absences will be required to participate in a conference with their parent/legal guardian and may be referred to Juvenile Court according to the CMCSS Progressive Truancy Intervention Plan (STS-P010). The following are official or adequate excuses that should be turned in to the Attendance Secretary in the school office:

  • Medical note (doctor, dentist, hospital, etc.) for which the student was a patient
  • Court note for which the student was required to be in court
  • Funeral notice (obituary/funeral program of a family member)
  • Military deployment paperwork-for military dependents, TN Law (T.C.A. 49-6-3019) allows the following for out-of-country deployments:
    • 1 excused absence when the parent leaves for deployment
    • 1 excused absence when the parent returns at the end of deployment
    • Up to ten (10) days excused absences when the parent is home from the deployment for Rest and Recuperation
    • In addition, local policy allows up to five (5) consecutive days of excused absences (either before or after the deployment) when the parent deployment is less than twelve (12) months
    • Military paperwork/documentation MUST be provided to the school for these to be excused.
    • Parents or legal guardians may submit notes for students to be excused up to five (5) days per school year, for any reason. To be excused, notes must be provided by the parent or legal guardian and received by the school within five (5) school days of the absence.

For high school and middle school classes, an absence per class is defined as missing ten (10) or more minutes of the class period. Make-up work: (Including suspension and remandment) Upon the first day of returning to school, it is the student’s responsibility to make contact with the teacher(s) regarding make-up work. During the school year, make-up work must be completed within a number of days equal to the number of consecutive days of the absences. A grade of “0” shall be entered into the teacher’s grade book for any missing work until the assignments have been completed and turned in.

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How will we learn about school bus information?

Bus routing information will be emailed to families of enrolled students on July 25. Routing information for the 2022-2023 School Year will be available at cmcss.net/bus-zoning/ beginning July 22.

If you have questions, please call (931) 358-4089 for more information.

For parents of younger children, please ensure they either know their address or have it written down for them in a safe place. Also, caution your child to not get off the bus if the stop is unfamiliar to them. Please visit cmcss.net/bussafety for more information.

Bus Rider Eligibility:

State Law

T.C.A. §49.6.2101 allows students living 1 ½ miles beyond their assigned school to be provided transportation.

CMCSS Qualifications

Effective the 2022-2023 school year, the parent responsibility zone (PRZ), the area in which families are responsible for providing transportation (car rider, walker, etc.), is:

  • 1 mile for elementary students
  • 1 ½ miles for middle and high school students

Exceptions:

For student safety, transportation will still be provided for students who live in the PRZ under the following travel conditions:

  • 4 or more lanes of traffic without a crossing guard
  • Roads with insufficient road width (less than 24 ft.) with speeds above 35 mph
  • Roads with no sidewalks with speeds above 35 mph

Notes:

  • This change will not impact students who receive Special Populations transportation services as indicated in their IEPs.
  • Any future development within the PRZ that has accessible safe travel paths may not be eligible for CMCSS transportation.
  • If a daycare is in the PRZ, CMCSS will not provide transportation.

Families must ensure that their students are at their assigned bus stops five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive. Students will be picked up and dropped off at the same bus stop every day.

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How do I know when there are unplanned school closings?

If school buildings must close due to inclement weather or other emergencies, the CMCSS Communications Department will use SchoolMessenger to notify families via call, text, and email. Parents and guardians can use the Parent Self-Service Portal at parents.cmcss.net to update contact information throughout the year. The district also will share inclement weather closure updates on official CMCSS social media accounts, district and school websites, and local media. Please ensure that you check your sources when viewing school closure information on social media. For official CMCSS social media accounts, follow us @cmcssinfo on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

See the “How do I stay connected” section above for more information.

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How are inclement weather days decided?

The Chief Operations Officer (COO) takes as much time as reasonably possible to make a recommendation to the Director of Schools. We always err on the side of caution to ensure the safety of students. To make a good recommendation, the COO looks at weather data and has transportation and operations staff checking the road conditions all over Montgomery County. He also studies radar, attends the national weather service briefings, and calls forecasters. Sometimes the decision is easy. The more difficult decisions come with the timing or the significance of the event which doesn’t allow us to make a clear decision. When that happens, families will be kept informed of the status of a closing decision.

To learn more about how CMCSS makes a decision regarding inclement weather, watch this video.

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June 29th, 2022

Kindergarten Information for the 2022-2023 School Year

We are excited to welcome our kindergarten families to CMCSS! Whether this is your first student in the district, or you are an experienced first-day family, here are some things you should know as we begin the school year.

Registration and Enrollment

If you have not yet signed up for school, you can register online at parents.cmcss.net.

Online registration is the first step in the enrollment process. Families will still need to turn in important registration documents in person to either the Enrollment Center or their child’s school once the school front offices reopen on July 21.

If you need technical assistance or prefer to register in person, please contact the Enrollment Center at 931-542-5078 to set up an appointment.

See a list of the necessary documents here.

Elementary School Open Houses

All elementary schools will host Open Houses on Friday, August 5 from 5-7 p.m. This is a great time to visit with your child’s teacher, tour the school, and learn about a typical kindergarten day! If families have already purchased classroom supplies, this is a great time to bring those to school.

First Day of School

All kindergarteners will attend the half-day of school on Monday, August 8. Each elementary school will host its first day of school in a manner best suited for its families. While it is not required that families attend the entire half-day, some may choose to do so. Additional information will be provided by each school.  

What does my student need to bring on the first day of school?

This half-day is designed to make your child comfortable with the transition to school. While nothing is required to bring on the first day, they can carry their backpack and water bottle. It may also be a good time to drop off school supplies.

Can I walk my child into school on the first day?

Yes, parents are welcome to walk with their children into school on Monday, August 8, and attend a brief meeting. Teachers are ready to greet families in their classrooms. More information on the first day of school will be provided during the Open House on August 5.

Kindergarten Flex Days (August 11-12; 15-16)

Schools will communicate individually with families regarding kindergarten flex days. Your child will be scheduled to come into school on one of the four days following August 8. All kindergarteners will then begin school on Wednesday, August 17 for their first full day of school. Caregivers can walk their child to class on their assigned flex day, where teachers will acclimate students to the schedule and routines of a typical kindergarten day.

Riding the Bus

If your child will ride the school bus to and from school, rest assured that school staff are waiting to help them navigate their way to the classroom! Families can assist with the bus rider process by helping their child learn their bus number and writing the bus number in a safe location where your child can find it. If you have questions about the bus rider process, someone will be able to assist you at the Open House.

School Supplies

Each teacher will have specific school supplies for their classroom that will be communicated on one of the first days of school. Families can find a general school supply list here.

If you would like to help your child’s teacher with additional classroom supplies, you can connect with them directly during the Open House.

Other Helpful Information

We are thrilled to have your child join us this school year. While everyone experiences a mix of emotions at the start of school, remember our CMCSS teachers are here to work with you and support your child throughout their academic journey.

This video provides helpful ways you can work with your child to prepare for kindergarten!


June 12th, 2022

CMCSS 2022-2023 In-Person Learning COVID-19 Overview

CMCSS has communicated with families since last year that schools cannot eliminate the spread of COVID-19 during in-person learning, but our collective actions can help mitigate the spread. The District’s COVID-19 mitigation strategy has always been about using multiple layers to improve success, sometimes referred to as the Swiss Cheese model. For the 2022-2023 school year, CMCSS is using the following mitigation layers:

  • Using MERV 13 instead of MERV 9 filters in all buildings
  • Increasing outdoor air ventilation
  • Employing enhanced two-step cleaning throughout buildings
  • Encouraging self-screening, masks, handwashing, covering sneezes, and staying home when sick for all students, employees, and visitors
  • Replenishing hand sanitizing stations
  • Promoting the use of personal water bottles and filling stations
  • Providing and COVID-19 testing for employees and their families at Onsite Employee Health and Wellness Clinics
  • Updating and implementing the Return to School/Work Flowchart

 COVID-19 Exposure Response Plan

When a CMCSS student or CMCSS employee tests positive for COVID-19, they will need to notify either the school nurse (if they are a student) or their supervisor (if they are an employee). The medical office that performed the test will notify the Montgomery County Health Department for contact tracing. Click here for the CMCSS Communicable Diseases and/or Illness Management Policy.

Click here for the current CMCSS Return to Work/School Flowchart developed by the CMCSS Safety and Health Department in collaboration with the Montgomery County Health Department. For the Spanish version, click here.

Self-Screening

Employees will be expected to self-screen before entering school premises.

Self-screening protocols for students and visitors will continue. Families are strongly encouraged to engage in self-screening at home prior to each school day. Click here for updated guidance from the CDC regarding screening K-12 students for symptoms of COVID-19.

Self-Screening Protocol

Have you had any of the below symptoms as a new-onset in the past 72 hours? (This does not include chronic conditions)

  • fever of 100 degrees or greater
  • new onset of a cough
  • new onset of shortness of breath
  • new onset of sore throat
  • new onset of body aches
  • diarrhea
  • new onset of headache
  • new onset of loss of taste or smell
  • nausea or vomiting
  • congestion or runny nose
  • chills
  • fatigue

If “yes”, please consult your personal health care provider before returning to any CMCSS locations. Students, employees, and visitors who are sick must follow the CMCSS Flowchart.

 

Effective June 10, 2022. Subject to change based on updated guidance and local, state, or national recommendations or mandates.

If you have any questions or feedback on the plan, please email [email protected]


February 1st, 2022

Family Life Curriculum Development Process Public Meetings

As communicated last semester, effective 2021-2022, all school systems in Tennessee are required to implement a program of family life education (T.C.A. 49-6-1302). In the fall, CMCSS sought feedback from teachers, parents/guardians, and other stakeholders on three proposed Family Life Curriculum resources that could be used by educators to teach the required components. After reviewing feedback with the CMCSS School Board, District leaders paused the process to seek additional guidance from the Tennessee Department of Education, legal counsel, and other districts across Tennessee. 

CMCSS is inviting all stakeholders to engage in the Family Life Curriculum development process by participating in one of the upcoming public meetings. At the meetings, District personnel will engage with stakeholders to address the following questions: 

  • What materials or textbooks will be used to develop the CMCSS curriculum?
  • How will teachers and students access the curriculum? 
  • What is required to be taught?

Meetings:

  • Tuesday, February 15
    • 10 a.m. at Central Services South – 1312 Highway 48/13, Clarksville, TN 37040
    • 5:30 p.m. at West Creek High School – 1210 West Creek Coyote Trail, Clarksville, TN 37042 (enter at the cafeteria/activities entrance)
  • Thursday, February 17
    • 5:30 p.m. at Central Services South – 1312 Highway 48/13, Clarksville, TN 37040

If you have any questions or input, please use the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FamLifeEd


September 29th, 2021

Social Media and School Safety Concerns

Good evening, CMCSS families,

Across the nation, schools are observing an increase in concerning student behaviors that are linked to social media, especially the app TikTok. As many CMCSS schools communicated with families a few weeks ago, an increase in vandalism and theft in schools and on buses was linked to a TikTok challenge. Recently, the District has been made aware of other planned challenges that promote crimes such as assaulting employees, sexual assault, and public nudity. 

“These social media challenges may appear to be harmless or fun to an adolescent, but what parents need to clearly understand is that these thoughtless actions will come with serious consequences,” stated Montgomery County Sheriff John Fuson. “I have heard some say ‘what is the big deal, it’s just a soap dispenser’ or ‘I was just messing around.’ The reality is, the damages left behind to school property and the invasion or violation of another student or staff member’s person can easily lead to thousands in fines and restitution for parents to pay and a felony offense for their child. I encourage parents to pay close attention to what their children are doing and intervene where it is needed. We plan to take the most appropriate action necessary to help resolve this issue and get their attention.”

In addition to concerns about TikTok challenges, there are other digital dangers like cyberbullying, child exploitation, sharing personal information, and offensive content. 

“Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is the leading federal law enforcement agency that investigates crimes involving exploitation of minors,” said Nashville HSI Special Agent in Charge Jerry C. Templet Jr. “Our agents continually work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute the perpetrators of these crimes and identify and rescue victims. While the internet is a great way to interact with friends and family, as well as meet new people, predators know this and actively stalk online meeting places such as chat rooms and social media sites. Education and community awareness regarding the dangers of online activity is extremely important.”

Finally, when a threat of violence is brought to our attention, we take it seriously and move forward to take the necessary action. Law enforcement and school officials work together to investigate. We will be vigilant in finding individuals responsible, and, as Sheriff Fuson has stated, “any and everybody involved will be charged and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” 

School Resource Officers and CMCSS employees work diligently to keep our schools safe, but it takes the entire community working together to provide a secure educational environment. We are asking parents and guardians to please talk to their children about online safety, appropriate behaviors, and consequences for criminal behaviors and offenses in the Student Code of Conduct.

Additionally, please talk to your children about the importance of immediately reporting any safety concern to an adult. Whether it is on social media or in the schoolhouse, if you see or hear something, say something. Please report concerns of school violence to officials, do not post or repost rumors or threats on social media.

Thank you for your support.

The following are a few resources on internet safety for parents/guardians: