The end of summer is in sight as school begins Monday, Aug. 25 for traditional students in the Cumberland County School System. The back-to-school season is filled with expectation, excitement and stress for kids and parents. From the school bus to the new attendance policy, here is what parents need to know:
1. CCS’ New Attendance Policy- It is imperative for each student to show up to school each day on time. The updated policy clarifies attendance expectations, outlines documentation procedures and reinforces the importance of being present every day to support student success.
2. School Bus Safety- Only authorized school personnel and students are allowed on the school bus. Unauthorized individuals may face criminal charges for trespassing or impeding the operation of a school bus.
3. Family Engagement and Volunteer Opportunities- CCS remains committed to partnerships with families and community members through expanded volunteer pathways and school-based engagement efforts.
4. Alongside Mental Health App- Middle and high school students will continue to have access to mental health wellness resources and self-guided support.
5. Infinite Campus (Student Information System)- Infinite Campus is a user-friendly platform to monitor attendance, grades and more.
6. Safety & Security- CCS continues its commitment to safe learning environments with Weapons Detection Systems in place, Raptor Security, Say Something Anonymous Reporting System and more.
7. Language Support Line- Non-English-speaking families can receive multilingual assistance through a dedicated support line designed to make communication easier.
8. Student Code of Conduct- Each student is given a student code of conduct that outlines CCS’ behaviors and consequences. The student should read and discuss the code of conduct with their parents.
9. Cell phone policy update- This new policy indicates that students are not allowed to display, use, turn on or make visible any personal devices (phones, earbuds, smartwatches, etc.) during instructional time. Devices must be turned off, put away out of sight and not easily accessible (kept in backpack or locker). Elementary students are not allowed to use their devices all day during bell-to-bell instruction. Use is only allowed when authorized by an Individualized Education Program, 504 plan, health plan, approved in advance for assistive, safety or translation needs or authorized by school staff for emergencies.
Middle and high school students can use their devices during their lunch periods, between class transitions, or with prior teacher approval for instructional purposes. Device usage is permitted on the buses before and after school. However, bus or school staff may restrict use if it creates safety concerns. Audio must be played with earbuds or headphones at a reasonable volume.
10. New clear bag policy- Beginning Friday, Aug. 22, CCS has implemented districtwide clear bag procedures for athletic events. Each person may bring one clear bag no larger than 12 by 15 by 3 inches. Small clutches, one-gallon Ziploc bags, diaper bags and medical bags will be allowed. Coats, blankets and strollers are allowed as long as storage compartments are left open and empty.
For the back-to-school guide visit www.ccs.k12.nc.us/btsg. For more information visit www.ccs.k12.nc.us.