COVID-19
COVID-19
Frequently Asked Questions
Updated 4/23/20
- How long will school be closed?
In accordance with our Governor’s request, all Tipton County Schools will be closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year.
- What are the instructional plans for students during the extended school closure period?
Schools will continue to prepare learning packets that are available to students online or in print. The next instructional material pick up dates (for May) will be as follows:
Elementary schools – April 28-29 9:00-1:00
Middle schools – April 27-28 9:00-1:00
High schools – see school’s webpage for information
In addition to learning packets, digital resources have also been shared online at www.tipton-county.com. Schools have posted additional resources and instructional tools (virtual learning opportunities such as Thrivist, Google Classroom, etc.) on their individual school webpages as well as communicated them via social media. Please visit your school’s webpage for information regarding instruction through the extended school closure.
- Are students required to complete the learning packets and/or digital assignments?
The learning packets are an optional opportunity for students to continue learning during the extended school closure.
- Will meals continue to be served?
Yes, at this time, breakfast and lunch will continue to be available from 10:30-1:00 Monday-Thursday.
- What are the plans for graduation?
We are working on plans to honor our graduates and will communicate details in the coming days. Plans will be limited based on guidance from local, state, and federal authorities on social distancing.
- When is Kindergarten registration for Fall 2020?
Note: Per the Tennessee Department of Education, to be eligible to enter kindergarten for the 2020-2021 school year, children must be five years of age by August 15, 2020. (T.C.A 49-6-3001 (B)
Kindergarten registration packets will be posted on each of the elementary school’s webpages for parents/guardians to print and fill out. The elementary schools will accept completed registration packets May 12th and May 19th from 8:00 a.m. – 6 p.m. using a drive-thru drop-off procedure. We ask that everyone remain in their cars.
In addition to the completed packet, parent/guardians will also need to bring a copy of the following:
- A birth certificate or officially acceptable evidence of date of birth
- Evidence of a current medical examination
- Evidence of state-required immunization and
- One proof of residence.
These items will be considered as proof of residence:
- Property tax records which indicate the location of the homestead
- Mortgage documents or property deed;
- Apartment or home lease
- Current utility bills showing residence address;
- Automobile registration
- Driver's license
- State issued id/document
At this time, Kindergarten screening is postponed until further notice.
Any parent/guardian who is unable to print a packet can pick up a printed copy of the paperwork during drop-off dates/times to complete and return.
If you are unable to secure one of the items above, please contact the principal of your child's zoned school for assistance in enrolling your student.
- When will schools accept PreK applications?
Note: The child must be 4 years old by August 15, 2020.
PreK application packets will be posted on each of the elementary school’s webpages as well as district webpage for parents/guardians to print and fill out. The elementary schools will accept completed packets May 7th from 11:30-6:00 and May 14th from 8:00-3:00 using a drive-thru drop-off procedure. We ask that everyone remain in their cars.
In addition to the completed packet, parent/guardians will also need to bring a copy of the following:
- A birth certificate or officially acceptable evidence of date of birth
- Proof of income (one of the following: check stub, W-2 forms, Income Tax forms, or proof of food stamp eligibility) and
- One proof of residence
The following items will be considered as proof of residence:
- Property tax records which indicate the location of the homestead
- Mortgage documents or property deed;
- Apartment or home lease
- Current utility bills showing residence address;
- Automobile registration
- Driver's license
- State issued id/document
At this time, PreK screening is postponed until further guidance is received regarding social distancing.
Any parent/guardian who is unable to print a packet can pick up a printed copy of the paperwork during drop-off dates/times to complete and return.
If you are unable to secure one of the items above, please contact the principal of your child's zoned school for assistance in applying for the PreK program.
- Will we extend the school year to make up for missed days?
The state has waived the 180 instructional day requirement for this school year. At this time, there are no plans to extend the school year into summer.
- When will students be allowed to clean out their lockers and turn in library books, textbooks, etc.?
In the coming weeks, schools will be in touch with families about students returning books/school property and retrieving any personal items left at school.
- How will second semester grades be calculated for this school year? When will students receive a report card?
Following the State Board of Education rules that were passed on April 9, 2020, students’ grades will be finalized as of March 20th. Tipton County Schools will not be taking attendance for the fourth nine-weeks; therefore, we will not record fourth nine-weeks grades. The grades at the end of the 3rd nine-weeks period will be final for all students. Students may have the option of completing additional work to improve grades. This will be enforced primarily at the high school level for core, credit-bearing courses. High school teachers and/or administrators have/will be communicating with students who are in need of credit recovery opportunities.
The student’s third nine-weeks grade will become the semester grade. There are no fourth nine-weeks grades.
There will be no 3rd nine-weeks report cards issued. We will offer final report cards at the end of May. The distribution method and date are to be determined and will be communicated as soon as possible.
- How do I contact a school principal if I have questions?
Please contact principals via email (addresses provided below):
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Alternative Learning Center |
Steve Zurhellen |
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Austin Peay Elementary |
Jill McIntyre |
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Atoka Elementary |
Lisa Rose |
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Brighton Elementary |
Latoya Avery |
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Brighton Middle |
Sabrina Sneed-Matthews |
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Brighton High |
Dr. Brian Norton |
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Covington Integrated Arts Academy |
Christy Ross |
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Covington High |
Mark McClain |
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Crestview Elementary |
Anne Adams |
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Crestview Middle |
Dr. Christopher Morris |
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Drummonds Elementary |
Shelley Gough |
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Munford Elementary |
Varissa Richardson |
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Munford Middle |
Kathryn Huffman |
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Munford High |
Dr. Courtney Fee |
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Teen Learning Center |
Cetrice Bounds |
- What is the status of athletic events?
TSSAA has cancelled all remaining events for the current school year. Please visit https://tssaa.org for additional information.
- How will high school students register for fall classes?
Information is being shared regarding registration for classes by each high school on their websites as well as social media.
- What are the plans for ACT testing for the Class of 2021?
The Tennessee State Board of Education removed this as a requirement for this school year; however, students who do not test during their junior year will be required to test next year. At this time, options are being made available for ACT testing in July and/or during Fall 2020. More information will be communicated to current juniors from their high school administration and/or counselors.
- How do I log in to Skyward Family Access in order to see my student’s grades and attendance?
Please contact your child’s principal who can provide log-in information and instructions.
Website: https://sis-tipton.tnk12.gov/scripts/wsisa.dll/WService=wsTIPStu/fwemnu01.w
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, April 15, 2020
MEDIA CONTACT: Victoria Robinson
TDOE and TSIN Release STEAM Resources for At-Home Learning
NASHVILLE, TN—The Tennessee Department of Education and the Tennessee STEM Innovation Network (TSIN) today released a STE(A)M Resource Hub for educators and families to use with students during COVID-19 related school closures.
The STE(A)M Resource Hub includes three weekly challenges around design activities, critical thinking, and career exploration that can all be done in the home. The challenges, created in partnership with TSIN educators from across the state, are ideal for students grades 3-12, but younger students can also participate with parental assistance. The STE(A)M Resource Hub also includes a portal for parents or educators to ask questions and receive additional support.
“Our school buildings may be closed, but the STE(A)M Resource Hub is another great example that learning can and will continue,” said Commissioner Penny Schwinn. “I am thrilled the department is partnering with TSIN to provide these resources to help students keep learning, dreaming, and exploring during this time. Again and again, Tennesseans are proving we will come together to give our kids opportunities—despite challenging circumstances.”
“The Tennessee STEM Innovation Network is committed to continuing the important work of our STEM programs and partnerships, especially during this unique and challenging time. This crisis further highlights the critical nature of STEM education,” said Brandi Stroecker Director of Tennessee STEM Innovation Network. “Guiding students to be empathic listeners, inquisitive questioners, and innovative problem solvers prepares them to solve the pressing issues of tomorrow and to serve as the leaders of their generation. We are excited to partner with the Tennessee Department of Education to provide families with strong online STE(A)M resources to help children continue to experience new learning at home while promoting the importance of failing forward and developing a growth mindset.”
The three weekly challenges enable students to keep building their STE(A)M skills while learning from home. Each challenge comes with a step-by-step directions for the activity, as well as additional resources to continue exploring the topic. Families and educators are encouraged to use the corresponding hashtags to share their work on social media:
· #MakerMonday: Resources focus on design activities for students using common objects found around the home to solve real-world challenges.
· #WonderWednesday: Resources include researching and responding to essay prompts, examining data and drawing conclusions, and/or designing an experiment to answer a question.
· #FutureFriday: Virtual resources for students to explore STEM careers. Students will experience virtual tours of STEM workplaces, video interviews of Tennesseans in interesting STEM careers, and explore the world of work.
“The field of STEM careers is vast and steadily growing- it doesn't only mean being a mathematician or scientist. As Billie Jean King put it, ‘You have to see it to be it.’ Students and parents need to know all of the wonderful opportunities that are available out there within STE(A)M. Using this time at home to take virtual field trips and research possible careers is an excellent way to help students see all of the opportunities out there and to plan their future,” said Amanda McClusky, CTE Advisor for Shelby County Schools.
“The importance of STEM education for students has never been more important as parents are looking for creative ways to engage their children. Providing MakerSpace opportunities allows students to repurpose items they have at home that will engage in 21st Century learning. It is very important for educators to ensure challenges are created that will capture the imagination of students to become critical thinkers, collaborate with family, use creativity, and communicate their results to others,” said Ben Bruce, STEM Coordinator at Sumner County Schools.
“In the great state of Tennessee, we are fortunate to have leaders, such as the Department of Education and TSIN, forging new routes for students, families, and teachers to practice persistence and thinking flexibly as we continue to strive for excellence,” said Lea Bartch, Gifted Coordinator of Murfreesboro City Schools. “STEM thinking demonstrates that our success or failure is determined by the habits of mind, and these resources will help students continue developing strong habits that nurture wonder and curiosity.”
The STE(A)M Resource Hub is one more learning resource the department is providing to families and educators during school building closures—including free access for all families to early education platform ReadyRosie, daily instruction content available on Tennessee’s PBS stations, along with other guidance documents and resources developed specifically for district and school leaders available on the Tennessee Department of Education’s coronavirus webpage: https://www.tn.gov/education/health-and-safety/update-on-coronavirus.html.
April 10, 2020
Updated Free Meal Schedule for Students
April 6, 2020
April 3, 2020
TDOE Releases Schedule and Resources for Video Lessons
Airing Statewide on PBS starting April 6th
NASHVILLE, TN—The Tennessee Department of Education is partnering with PBS stations across the state to offer 1st-8th grade students up to 30 hours of standards-aligned instructional lessons per week during times of COVID-19 school closures.
"We know so many Tennesseans have grown up learning from public television and are so grateful to PBS for embodying the volunteer spirit and supporting our students in this critical way,” said Education Commissioner Penny Schwinn. “We are amazed by the response of PBS and Tennessee’s educators to support at-home learning during these unprecedented times.”
Beginning April 6th, thirty-minute segments will air from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. CST each weekday on the main channels of each of the six PBS stations across the state-- WNPT Nashville, East Tennessee PBS, WCTE Upper Cumberland, WKNO Memphis, West TN PBS, and Chattanooga WTCI. Additionally, viewers can watch or record up to four more hours of content that will be broadcast overnight.
Broadcast programming, developed by the Tennessee Department of Education in partnership with teachers across the state, will cover English language arts (ELA) and math for first through sixth grades. For seventh and eighth graders, recorded video lessons will be available online starting April 13th.
Accompanying lesson plans and work packets will be posted on the department’s website for teachers and families to use, adapt, and build upon. Access the lesson plans and student work packets at www.tn.gov/education/pbsteaching.
The department will also make all videos available on its YouTube channel after they air.
“It is inspiring to see so many teachers come together to make this possible, and I am honored to be a part of it to provide these lessons for not only my students but also children across the state. As teachers, we are all missing our students and being in the classroom every day together. But just because school buildings are closed, doesn't mean learning must stop,” said Jessica Alley, 7th grade ELA teacher, Christiana Middle School. “This partnership with PBS is one way we can help give all students access to learning opportunities during this unprecedented time.”
This partnership builds upon several preexisting partnerships that some school districts have with their local PBS station. Local listings will reflect individual station schedules and include programming for additional educational content.
Daytime Schedule:
o Monday— 1st and 2nd Grade ELA and Math Lessons
§ 10:00 am CST- 1st Grade ELA
§ 10:30 am CST- 1st Grade Math
§ 11:00 am CST- 2nd Grade ELA
§ 11:30 am CST- 2nd Grade Math
o Tuesday— 3rd and 4th Grade ELA and Math Lessons
§ 10:00 am CST- 3rd Grade ELA
§ 10:30 am CST- 3rd Grade Math
§ 11:00 am CST- 4th Grade ELA
§ 11:30 am CST- 4th Grade Math
o Wednesday— 5th and 6th Grade ELA and Math Lessons
§ 10:00 am CST- 5th Grade ELA
§ 10:30 am CST- 5th Grade Math
§ 11:00 am CST- 6th Grade ELA
§ 11:30 am CST- 6th Grade Math
o Thursday—1st and 2nd Grade ELA and Math Lessons
§ 10:00 am CST- 1st Grade ELA
§ 10:30 am CST- 1st Grade Math
§ 11:00 am CST- 2nd Grade ELA
§ 11:30 am CST- 2nd Grade Math
o Friday— 3rd and 4th Grade ELA and Math Lessons
§ 10:00 am CST- 3rd Grade ELA
§ 10:30 am CST- 3rd Grade Math
§ 11:00 am CST- 4th Grade ELA
§ 11:30 am CST- 4th Grade Math
Overnight Schedule:
Recorded videos covering ELA and Math for grades first through sixth will stream from 1 a.m.- 5 a.m. CST Monday through Friday beginning the week of April 6th.
Online:
o Lesson plans and student work packets: www.tn.gov/education/pbsteaching
o 7th Grade- ELA and Math Lessons starting the week of April 16th
o 8th Grade- ELA and Math Lessons starting the week of April 16th
Other guidance documents and resources developed specifically for district and school leaders are available on the Tennessee Department of Education’s coronavirus webpage: https://www.tn.gov/education/health-and-safety/update-on-coronavirus.html.
April 1, 2020
COVID-19
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long will school be closed?
In accordance with our Governor’s request, all Tipton County Schools are currently closed through April 24th. This is a fluid situation, and we will continue to monitor and follow guidance from health care professionals and government officials.
- What are the instructional plans for students during the school closure period?
Schools are compiling learning packets that are being made available to students online or in print. Digital resources have also been shared online at www.tipton-county.com. Schools may also post additional resources and instructional tools (virtual learning opportunities such as Thrivist, Google Classroom, etc.) on their individual school webpages as well as communicate them via social media.
- Are students required to complete the learning packets and/or digital assignments?
The learning packets are an optional opportunity for students to continue learning during this extended school closure.
- Where are meals being served?
Breakfast and lunch pick-up is available from 10:30-1:00 Monday-Friday at the following locations:
Covington High School
Brighton Elementary School
Munford Elementary School
Drummonds Elementary School
Austin Peay Elementary School
Community sites: Boys and Girls Club, Richland Hills Park (Mason)
- What about high school graduation?
The State Board of Education has a special called meeting scheduled for April 9th. Among the topics they will be discussing is graduation. We will provide updates as they are received.
- When is Kindergarten registration for Fall 2020?
Due to school closure, the April 2nd registration date has been cancelled. Pending no further closures, the next available date for kindergarten registration will be May 12th from 8:00 a.m. – 6 p.m. at each elementary school (as noted on the Board approved school calendar).
- When will schools accept PreK applications?
Due to school closure, the PreK application date of April 7th has been cancelled. Pending no further closures, PreK applications will be accepted on May 7th from 11:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. at each elementary school.
- Will we extend the school year to make up for missed days?
The state has waived the 180 instructional day requirement for this school year. There are no plans to extend the school year into summer.
- How will dual enrollment and AP students be affected by school closure?
High schools will be communicating with higher ed. institutions and students to ensure distance learning platforms are accessible for students to continue their studies.
AP teachers will be working with their students remotely to provide instruction and guidance to prepare them for the upcoming AP exam.
- Will ALC students be required to make up their time in ALC before returning to their home school?
This information is forthcoming as we receive guidance.
- How will you handle fundraisers that were already in progress when schools closed?
These situations will be handled on a case-by-case basis at the school level for now. Please reach out to your school principal (via email) for fundraiser information.
- How do I request a copy of my child’s transcript?
Contact the principal via email at the appropriate high school.
- How will credit recovery work for high school students who need to participate?
High school administrators/staff will be in contact (as needed) with students who are currently affected by credit recovery situations.
- What about state testing and ACT that was scheduled for this spring?
The Tennessee General Assembly waived end of year standardized tests including TNReady testing, EOC (End-of-Course) tests, and TCAP-Alternative testing. The lack of data from tests will not negatively impact our schools, teachers, students, or district.
We are awaiting further guidance on ACT testing for high school students.
- How will students’ final grades be calculated for this school year?
We are awaiting further guidance on student grading as a result of the extended school closure.
- How do I contact a school principal if I have questions?
Please contact principals via email (addresses provided below):
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Alternative Learning Center |
Steve Zurhellen |
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Austin Peay Elementary |
Jill McIntyre |
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Atoka Elementary |
Lisa Rose |
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Brighton Elementary |
Latoya Avery |
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Brighton Middle |
Sabrina Sneed-Matthews |
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Brighton High |
Dr. Brian Norton |
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Covington Integrated Arts Academy |
Christy Ross |
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Covington High |
Mark McClain |
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Crestview Elementary |
Anne Adams |
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Crestview Middle |
Dr. Christopher Morris |
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Drummonds Elementary |
Shelley Gough |
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Munford Elementary |
Varissa Richardson |
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Munford Middle |
Kathryn Huffman |
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Munford High |
Dr. Courtney Fee |
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Teen Learning Center |
Cetrice Bounds |
- What is the status of extracurricular and athletic events and activities?
School closure includes classes, extracurricular activities, and sporting events as well as School-Aged Child Care.
For information from the TSSAA regarding spring sports, please visit their webpage at https://tssaa.org. We will also keep you informed as we receive updates from TSSAA.
- What does TCS recommend that parents and students be doing during the closure period?
Most importantly, we ask that you follow guidelines concerning social distancing and limited travel/social interaction to remain safe and healthy.
- When is open enrollment for 2020-21?
Open enrollment information can be found on our district webpage at www.tipton-county.com under the “Parents” tab. Click on “Open Enrollment.” Additional information for 20-21 is forthcoming on the webpage link.
March 30, 2020
March 29, 2020
Here is the link for the Partners for Health site. Please click the red and the gold banner for information on the coronavirus response from PartnersforHealth.
March 23, 2020
Click here for some helpful information From Partners for Health for our health plan members.
March 17, 2020
POSSIBLE FOOD RESOURCES
Brighton Baptist Church
132 East Woodlawn
Brighton, TN 38011
901-476-6180
Wednesdays
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
First Baptist Church
2105 Hwy 59 West
Covington, TN 38019
901-476-2489
First Presbyterian Church
403 South Main Street
Covington, TN 38019
901-476-2434
Mondays
1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
First United Methodist Church – Covington
145 West Church Avenue
Covington, TN 38019
901-476-9694
Every 1st and 3rd Saturday
Gateway Baptist Church
3/23, 3/25, 3/27 to help our Tipton County families with non-perishables.
Please contact the church prior to coming at 901-837-8087.
Pick up will be from 10-12 at:
Munford Campus
145 Joe Joyner Road
Munford, TN 38058
Covington Campus
101 W. Court Square
Covington, TN 38019
Holly Grove Cumberland Presbyterian Church
4538 Holly Grove Road
Brighton, TN 38011
901-476-8379
Munford Methodist Church
57 South Tipton Street
Munford, TN 38058
901-837-8881
Food Pantry on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month
Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Friday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
St. John Missionary Baptist Church
1998 Atoka Idaville Road
Atoka, TN 38004
901-837-2427
(Vouchers)
If your church or organization would like to be on this list of resources,
please call 901-476-7148.
March 16, 2020
Tipton County Schools will extend school closure through Tuesday, March 31st. As we’ve stated before, this is a fluid situation and we will keep you posted through our webpage and social media as additional details emerge. Thanks!will extend school closure through Tuesday, March 31st. As we’ve stated before, this is a fluid situation and we will keep you posted through our webpage and social media as additional details emerge. Thank
See this video update from Commissioner Schwinn. Thank you to all our district leadership and staff for all your hard work to keep our students safe and healthy. pic.twitter.com/eWu5b8PfG8
— TN Dept of Education (@TNedu) March 16, 2020
March 13, 2020
In collaboration with many of our surrounding school systems, Tipton County Schools will take an opportunity to thoroughly deep clean all of our facilities and buses over the course of the next two weeks. As a result, all Tipton County Schools will be closed beginning Monday, March 16th, through the end of Spring Break. This closure includes classes, extracurricular activities, and sporting events as well as School-Aged ChildCare.
We know this may be a hardship for some families, and we sincerely appreciate your support and understanding. This decision was not made without an abundance of input from local health representatives.
Please reference specific Health Department and CDC guidelines as posted on our TCS webpage for information and safety precautions.
March 12, 2020
CDC Coronavirus Information
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html (English)
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index-sp.html (Spanish)
CDC Handwashing Information:
https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/handwashing-family.html (English)
https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/pdf/family_handwashing_esp-508.pdf (Spanish)
Talking to Children About COVID-19:
March 6, 2020
There has been a growing concern in our nation over the Coronavirus. Some of our employees have expressed potential concern, as well, and we would like to share what we know and what we are doing to alleviate as much of the concern as possible.
At this point, it is known that Coronavirus is a respiratory illness with symptoms much like influenza or “flu.” Its primary symptoms are fever, coughing and shortness of breath. Symptoms usually appear anywhere between two to fourteen days after exposure. In most people, the illness produces mild to moderate symptoms that do not require hospitalization. However, just like with influenza, the elderly, people with chronic lung conditions and those with compromised immune systems are at higher risk.
There are also some things that we don’t know for sure right now, such as if the virus can be spread by people without symptoms , or how long the virus can remain on nonliving surfaces like doorknobs and bathroom faucets. Our cleaning staff is disinfecting thoroughly every evening to make sure our buildings are as germ free as possible.
In addition to keeping our environment as germ-free as possible, the following tips are standard best practices to avoid and limit the spreading of ANY type of germs:
- Wash your hands frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing
- Avoid touching your face, nose and mouth
- If you have a cold, runny nose, sore throat, muscle aches or fever, please keep to yourself as much as possible, or do not come to work if you are running a fever or feel that you may be contagious
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Fear, panic, and misinformation can be just as dangerous as an outbreak itself.
For additional information we encourage you to seek a reputable source of news, such as the Center for Disease Control https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/ or the
World Health Organization. Tennessee-specific information can be found on the website at TN.gov/health. We will continually update Tipton County Schools’ website under Latest News as information is received.
Our priority is our students and we are doing everything we can to make sure they are protected from harm of any kind.
-TCS Admin