Rumor Mill-5403

Published May 17, 2013

The purpose of this section is to answer any questions parents, teachers or community members might have regarding the school district and to set the record straight in regards to any rumors that might be circulating.

If you have a question or have heard a rumor that you would like for us to address, simply SEND US your questions and we will respond to them in upcoming issues of IN FOCUS. Below are some of the questions we have received since our last issue.

I have some concerns about the Common Core State Standards. First off, it sounds like Common Core is the first step toward nationalizing education which I think is wrong. Also, I've heard that as a result of Common Core, personal information about students will be shared with the federal government. Is there any truth to that?

The Common Core State Standards are part of a state-led effort to give all students the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. The federal government did not develop the standards. Individual states choose whether or not to adopt these standards.

Any information tying a student to their educational data cannot be legally sold or released to anyone without parental consent. Federal law protects the privacy of student information and educational records through the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Tennessee will not release student information that would be in conflict with federal law.

I have heard a rumor from several parents that fall break for the upcoming school year may be extended or the dates may be changed. Please let us know of any proposed changes as many families must plan well ahead of time for out of town trips.

The 2013-14 school year calendar has been adopted. Fall Break will take place Friday, October 11 and Monday, October 14. There has been no talk of making any changes to the calendar.