Posted in Elementary School:


March 27th, 2024

Solar Eclipse – Monday, April 8

On the afternoon of Monday, April 8, we will be able to observe a partial solar eclipse in Clarksville-Montgomery County. This will be a different experience than the total solar eclipse in August 2017, when our community was a prime location in the path of totality. However, this will still be a great learning experience for students. CMCSS has purchased ISO-certified solar eclipse safety glasses for students and employees. Weather and schedules permitting, schools may plan educational activities and provide opportunities for students to view the eclipse at school.

If you would prefer to pick up your student early from school, students will be counted present for an entire day if you pick them up after they have been in school for a total of 3 hours and 30 minutes.

If you do not want your child to view the eclipse at school, please send a written note to your child’s school by Friday, April 5 to exempt them from participation in any viewing activities.


March 21st, 2024

Open Enrollment Information for the 2024-2025 School Year

CMCSS is offering Open Enrollment in specific schools and grade levels with available capacity for the 2024-2025 school year. Space for Open Enrollment is limited to only the specific schools and grades listed below.

Each grade listed has a limited number of available seats. If more requests are received than available seats, a lottery drawing will be held. Open Enrollment is only open to residents of Montgomery County. Applications for the 2024-2025 school year will be accepted from Monday, March 25 through Wednesday, April 24, 2024. Please see below for the application. Completed applications should be delivered in person or mailed to the CMCSS Enrollment Center, 430 Greenwood Ave. Clarksville, TN 37040, ATTN: Director of Student Services.  This Open Enrollment process is separate from the application period for schools and programs of choice that took place January – February 2024.

2024-2025 Open Enrollment Application (STS-F023)

 

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
School K 1 2 3 4 5
Byrns Darden Elementary 5 seats 5 seats
Cumberland Heights Elementary 5 seats 5 seats 5 seats 5 seats 5 seats 5 seats
Minglewood Elementary 15 seats
Montgomery Central Elementary 20 seats
 

MIDDLE SCHOOL

School 6 7 8
Rossview Middle 9 seats 26 seats 39 seats
HIGH SCHOOL
School 9 10 11 12
Montgomery Central High 63 seats 32 seats
Northeast High 10 seats 10 seats 10 seats 10 seats
Rossview High 7 seats 10 seats 10 seats

 

CMCSS Open Enrollment Policy (STS-A004)

Due to the comprehensive rezoning that changed capacities at some schools, the District had to delay the determination of open seats for Open Enrollment until spring 2024.


January 5th, 2024

Third Grade Promotion – English Language Arts TCAP

The state of Tennessee has had a student promotion and retention law in place since 2011. During the 2021 Special Session, the Tennessee legislature updated that law to ensure that all students have the support to read and perform on grade level no later than the 2022-23 school year. If a student does not pass the 3rd-grade section of the ELA TCAP (a student who receives an approaching or below score), they will be provided support to ensure they are ready for grade-level ELA lessons in fourth grade. If a student’s family does not wish to take advantage of these supports, the student will be retained to third grade to ensure that they receive an additional year of instruction and can participate fully during their fourth grade ELA classroom moving forward. For more information, click here for the Tennessee Department of Education’s (TDOE) FAQ document.

Supports/Pathways to 4th Grade

For some 3rd-grade students in Tennessee, this updated law requires the student and their family to make some important decisions. Beginning in the 2022-23 school year, 3rd-grade students who receive “approaching” or “below” on the English Language Arts (ELA) section of the TCAP assessment are able to get important learning supports from their school for free to ensure they are ready to move on to the 4th grade.

If a student’s family does not wish to take advantage of these supports, which are outlined in the graphic below, the student will be retained to 3rd grade the following school year and will not be promoted to 4th grade. Additionally, under the updated provisions of the law, your child must make adequate growth on the 4th grade ELA portion of the TCAP test before being promoted to fifth grade. However, the following students are exempt from 3rd-grade retention: English learners with less than two years of ELA instruction, students previously retained in grades K-3, students with a disability that impacts reading or students with a suspected disability that impacts reading.

Appeals

The state has an appeal process for students who have been identified for retention in third grade and achieved a performance level of “approaching” on either the third-grade TCAP English Language Arts (ELA) portion or the TCAP retake assessment. A parent or legal guardian has 14 calendar days from the time of notification of a third-grade student who scored “approaching” on the ELA section of TCAP to submit an appeal. More information will be included here after the state releases final information on appeals.

The following criteria outline eligibility for an appeal approval:

Criteria will be added after being finalized by the state.

A link to the Tennessee Department of Education Third Grade Retention Parent Appeal Form will be available here after it is released by the state.

Timeline

Please see below for a timeline from the Tennessee Department of Education:

Fall:

  • Your child will take a universal reading screener.
  • You will receive your child’s home literacy report, which should include information on your child’s current reading development, the support the school is providing your child in reading, and what to do to support literacy at home.
  • Discuss results with your child’s teacher, if needed.

Winter:

  • Your child will take a mid-year universal reading screener.
  • You will receive another home literacy report. This literacy report will also indicate whether your child may be at-risk for retention.
  • Discuss results with your child’s teacher, if needed.

Spring:

  • Your child will take an end-of-year universal reading screener and the TCAP.
  • You will receive a final home literacy report which should also indicate whether your child may be at-risk for retention.
  • Schedule a parent-teacher conference to review the results of your home literacy report and any necessary next steps, including a testing retake opportunity, if needed.
  • Sign your child up for summer programming and/or tutoring to support their literacy development.
  • Review third-grade ELA retake and appeals information (if appropriate).
  • Collect necessary information and file an appeal (if appropriate and desired).

Resources

Please see below for resources from the Tennessee Department of Education:

As with all legislation, the laws, rules, regulations, and guidance are subject to change.


September 19th, 2023

Dyslexia and ILP-D Family Information Sessions

The CMCSS Instruction and Curriculum Department will host information sessions throughout October for families interested in learning more about dyslexia and individualized learning plans for dyslexia (ILP-D.) Families may have received a phone call from their child’s teacher or paperwork sent home recently. These information sessions will answer questions regarding the CMCSS screening process and new state requirements. Caregivers can pre-submit questions to ensure they’re answered by emailing [email protected]. Pre-registration for the information sessions is not required.

Topics will include:

  • What is dyslexia?
  • How does CMCSS screen and support students with dyslexia?
  • What are the updated state regulations with Individualized Learning Plans for students with characteristics of dyslexia? (ILP-D)
  • What questions can I ask my child’s teacher to support my student at school?

Virtual Information Session Dates and Times

  • Monday, October 2, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
  • Tuesday, October 3, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  • Monday, October 16, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, October 19, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
  • Monday, October 23, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, October 26, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Click here to access the Zoom link (valid for all the above meeting times.) 

 


September 19th, 2023

Dyslexia and ILP-D Family Information Sessions

The CMCSS Instruction and Curriculum Department will host information sessions throughout October for families interested in learning more about dyslexia and individualized learning plans for dyslexia (ILP-D.) Families may have received a phone call from their child’s teacher or paperwork sent home recently. These information sessions will answer questions regarding the CMCSS screening process and new state requirements. Caregivers can pre-submit questions to ensure they’re answered by emailing [email protected]. Pre-registration for the information sessions is not required.

Topics will include:

  • What is dyslexia?
  • How does CMCSS screen and support students with dyslexia?
  • What are the updated state regulations with Individualized Learning Plans for students with characteristics of dyslexia? (ILP-D)
  • What questions can I ask my child’s teacher to support my student at school?

Virtual Information Session Dates and Times

  • Monday, October 2, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
  • Tuesday, October 3, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  • Monday, October 16, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, October 19, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
  • Monday, October 23, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, October 26, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Click here to access the Zoom link (valid for all the above meeting times.) 


August 24th, 2023

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a program that provides eligible households up to $30/month toward their internet bills as well as a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. All households with a child who was approved to receive free or reduced-price school meals within the last 12 months under the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program, including children who attend schools participating in the Community Eligibility Provision, are eligible for ACP benefits.

Families can check their eligibility, sign up, and find fully covered plans at GetInternet.gov (mobile-accessible and available in Spanish) or by calling 877-384-2575.

The following are additional resources provided by the government:

  • GetInternet.gov—a one-stop shop to learn about ACP, check eligibility, enroll, and find fully covered internet plans.
  • White House Fact Sheet on the ACP and its benefits.

Additionally, CEMC/Cumberland Connect has provided resources in English and Spanish.


July 12th, 2023

Kindergarten Information for the 2023-2024 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 20.

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.

Elementary School Open Houses

All elementary schools will host Open Houses on Friday, August 4, 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 7. 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 families 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 on the first day, they can carry their backpack and water bottle. It may also be a good time to drop off school supplies. Breakfast and lunch are not served on the first half day of school. 

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 7, 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 4.

Kindergarten Flex Days (August 10-11; 14-15)

Schools will communicate individually with families regarding kindergarten flex days. Your child will be scheduled to come to school on one of the four days following August 7. All kindergarteners will then begin school on Wednesday, August 16, 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.

StopFinder

Stopfinder provides real-time information on where your child’s bus is as they travel to and from school. This secure and protected app allows you to provide access to trusted guardians or friends for as long or short of a time as you wish. Parents and guardians can also choose to share access with students. Registration invitations will be sent out at the beginning of the school year. 

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!


May 11th, 2023

End-of-Year Updates and Reminders for Families

As we wrap up the 2022-2023 school year, please see below for a few updates and reminders:

Calendar Reminders

  • May 19, 22-23 – High School Exams
  • Wednesday, May 24 – Last Half Day of School
  • May 24-27 – High School Graduations (Click here for info on livestreaming)
  • Monday, August 7 – First Half Day of the 2023-2024 School Year

Visit cmcss.net/calendars to view calendars for upcoming school years. Jostens is generously sponsoring the CMCSS printed calendar for next school year! We hope to have calendars delivered to homes by the end of July. 

Communication/Technology Updates

CMCSS is announcing three exciting updates that will begin next school year:

  • ParentSquare: CMCSS will be transitioning its mass notification service from SchoolMessenger to ParentSquare. ParentSquare provides families with improved options to receive communications from schools and the District when and how families want to receive them, with translations in 100+ languages. Phone calls will still be available for emergencies or other urgent communications, but families will primarily receive communications via text, email, and the ParentSquare app and/or desktop version. Additionally, ParentSquare will provide a platform for translatable, two-way communications between educators and parents/guardians and open mass notification access for teachers to families of students in their classes. All families will receive invitations via text and email to join ParentSquare over the summer.
  • StopFinder: If your child does not ride CMCSS transportation, please disregard. During the 2022-2023 school year, CMCSS piloted StopFinder on a few campuses. The StopFinder app uses GPS tracking information to determine the location of a school bus along its route. StopFinder provides real-time information on where your child’s bus is as they travel to and from school. In 2023-2024, CMCSS will be expanding StopFinder access to all families across the District. For details on StopFinder, click here. Families will receive an invitation in the coming weeks to activate accounts and download the app.
  • Student IDs (K-5): During the 2022-2023 school year, several CMCSS schools participated in a pilot program for student identification cards. CMCSS will be expanding implementation to all elementary schools in 2023-2024. The student ID cards use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology to monitor when students get on or off a CMCSS school bus and allow students to use them when purchasing breakfast or lunch items. At no time do the ID cards track or monitor a student’s location in any way. Student identification cards will not have a photo ID but will have their personal QR code, which assists with logging into school-issued laptops. Cards will not contain any information, including home address, birth date, health-related information, or other personal details.

CMCSS will share more information with families on the above updates over the coming weeks.

Get Ready for 2023-2024!

There is always much excitement about summer break. With only a few days of school left and warmer temperatures arriving, we know the anticipation is only growing. We hope all families have a safe and enjoyable summer! CMCSS will share our Family Guide to the 2023-2024 School Year in July. In the meantime, please see below for a few items:

  • Free/Reduced Meal Applications: Even with a few days of school left, it is not too late for families of traditional (non-virtual) students to apply for free/reduced meals for this school year. Families may apply and potentially qualify for free or reduced-price meal benefits at any time during the school year. Online applications are available at schoolcafe.com. If you need a paper application, please contact your child’s school or the Child Nutrition Department. Applications for the 2023-2024 school year will be available beginning on Monday, July 17. Applications must be submitted and approved each school year for a student to receive benefits.
  • Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 7th Grade Immunizations: Per state law, no child can be permitted to attend any public school until proof of immunization is presented. If your student qualifies for a Medical or Religious Exemption, documentation must be provided. Please click here to learn more. We ask families to please make arrangements before the first day of school.
  • Registration: If your family will have any students who are new to CMCSS in the 2023-2024 school year, visit cmcss.net/registration to learn more and begin the enrollment process online.

School Safety

In monthly communications, CMCSS has been providing updates and reminders regarding school safety. In this last month of school, our community faced several concerns with social media threats and “swatting.” Although these are terrible situations that CMCSS and school systems across the nation have been facing for years, the number of threats occurring over a few days and in the wake of the tragedy at the Covenant School in Nashville created even more fear and anxiety in our community. School safety will always be our top priority, and we appreciate our strong collaboration with law enforcement and partnership with families to help make our schools and communities safe. Please see below for a reminder and two updates:

  • School Safety Hub: Last summer, CMCSS launched the School Safety Hub. This online resource for families provides important information about CMCSS’ safety and security measures. CMCSS does not publicly advertise its complete plan to ensure that those who wish to do harm do not have access to the information, but the School Safety Hub provides an overview of protocols and practices. We encourage all families to review the information and resources on the School Safety Hub. The Active Threat tab on the top left provides families with information and a video on the quarterly drills all CMCSS schools conduct to prepare in the event of an active threat on campus.
  • NEW Social Media Lawsuit: This week, the Frantz Law Group, APLC, working with Lewis Thomason, P.C. in Tennessee, has filed a lawsuit on behalf of CMCSS for the damages and growing mental health crisis among students that have been caused by social media companies. Over the past few years, CMCSS has experienced a rise in mental health issues, threats of school violence, cyberbullying, inappropriate content, and other challenges, damages, and disruptions linked to students’ use of social media and the lack of protections, controls, and cooperation by social media companies. Without cooperation and support from social media companies, CMCSS has been fighting an uphill battle. It is time for social media companies to be held accountable for the lack of monitors, controls, and cooperation to protect children and our society, and CMCSS appreciates the partnership with the Frantz Law group to do that. We will keep families updated as the litigation progresses.
  • NEW Weapons Detection Pilot: A team from CMCSS and MCSO conducted a metal detector feasibility study. The team studied the research and best practices; types of metal detectors and new technologies; practices of other school districts; and the costs and logistics for implementing metal detectors. Through this research, MCSO and CMCSS leaders are planning a pilot for Evolv technologies. Unlike metal detectors, wanding, and other traditional solutions, Evolv offers an innovative and accelerated approach to physical security screening and weapons detection through enhanced sensors and artificial intelligence (AI). Sheriff Fuson is committed to partnering with CMCSS to proactively enhance layers of security, and MCSO has established funding for a pilot program for mobile units that can be piloted at multiple campuses to determine logistics and feasibility with various building and campus layouts. As details are confirmed about where, when, and how the pilot will be implemented, CMCSS will share information directly with families. 

 


March 13th, 2023

CMCSS 2023-2024 Kindergarten Kick-off Set for April 4

Kindergarten enrollment has begun for the Class of 2036!

How to Register

Begin the registration process here.

Information on registration and required information can be found on our registration page. The registration page includes a list of all necessary documents required and information on preparing for kindergarten.

Visit Your Child’s New School

CMCSS Elementary Schools offer a Kindergarten Kick-off to introduce students to their new schools. Kindergarten Kick-off will be held in person at each child’s zoned school on Tuesday, April 4, from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

If you are unsure of your zoned school, visit http://businfo.cmcss.net/. Families can input their child’s primary residence address to find out which school their child is zoned.

Interested in CMCSS K-12 Virtual?

CMCSS K-12 Virtual kindergarten kickoff will be at 5:00 pm via Zoom. Here is the link for the Zoom session.

Help Your Child Prepare

Watch this video and learn simple ways you can help your child prepare for school!

We look forward to welcoming all our new CMCSS students and families this August!


January 22nd, 2023

Elementary School Rezoning Information (2024-2026)