Upper School Handbook

Upper School Student Handbook

General School Contact Information

Main Telephone: ......................................

Main Fax: ...................................................

Upper School Telephone: .......................

Upper School Fax: ....................................

865-693-0011

865-691-8057

Our Mission

865-291-3805

865-291-2686

Admission Office: .....................................

Athletic Office: ..........................................

Athletic Fax: ...............................................

College Counseling Office: .....................

College Counseling Fax: ...........................

865-291-3830

865-291-3843

865-291-2689

865-291-3845

865-291-2332

Development & Alumni Office: ..............

Development Fax:.....................................

865-291-3842

865-693-4741

CEEB Code: ........... 431127 (for SAT and ACT testing)

The mission of Webb School is to inspire and nurture the full potential of each individual and to prepare our students to serve as leaders of character in tomorrow’s world.

Administrative Staff

President

Michael McBrien

Head of Upper School

Matt Macdonald

Upper School Associate

Dean of Student Life

James Michel

Upper School Assistant

Dean of Student Life

Jerome Romain

Upper School Coordinator of Assessment & Student Life

Terri Ward

College Counselors

Mark Seamon

Tyler Lewelling

College Counseling Office Manager

Transcript Requests

Tiffany Massengill

Upper School Counselors

Alex Ardison

Lindsey Whitsett

Director of Athletics

David Meske

Assistant Director of Athletics

Shelley Collier

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT CALL

ATTENDANCE

Upper School

Office Manager

Leah Roberts

Athletics Office Manager

Lynne Canan

Upper School Office Manager

Leah Roberts

Upper School Registrar

Upper School Technology Coordinator

Doug Bright

Upper School Learning Specialists

Lindsey Whitsett

Erin Carter

GIFTS TO THE SCHOOL Director of Development

Hugh Nystrom

GRADE REPORTS/TRANSCRIPTS College Counseling Office Manager

ACADEMIC COURSE OF STUDY

Upper School Head

Matt Macdonald

GRADE-LEVEL ISSUES

Class of 2026 (9th grade)

Class of 2025 (10th grade)

Class of 2024 (11th grade)

Class of 2023 (12th grade)

Class Deans

Stephanie Spurlock

Heather Hillesheim

John Micheletto

Terri Ward

ADMISSION/FINANCIAL AID Director of Admission & Financial Aid

Christy Widener

ATHLETICS Athletic Director Assistant Athletic

David L. Meske Director

Shelley Collier

CAMP WEBB SUMMER CAMP

Camp Webb Director

Allison Hodges

CHAPEL SCHEDULING Upper School Office Manager

Leah Roberts

FOOD SERVICES/SPECIAL DIETS

Sodexo Food Services

Matt Wegman

Tiffany Massengill

LEARNING CENTER Learning Specialists

Lindsey Whitsett

Erin Carter

MONTHLY FINANCIAL Business Office/ STATEMENT Student Accounts

Debbie Breeden

SCHOOL COUNSELING Upper School Counselors

Alex Ardison

Lindsey Whitsett

COMMUNITY SERVICE Upper School PROGRAM Community Service Coordinator

Hemal Tailor

INCLEMENT Families are notified by an automated WEATHER phone call and text. Information is also CLOSINGS posted to the school website.

UPPER SCHOOL Faculty Sponsors HOUSE COUNCIL

Stephanie Spurlock

Aaron Teffeteller

Kandace Bowen

Upper School Overview

Webb School History

Robert W. Webb III founded Webb School of Knoxville in 1955. In 1957, Webb admitted its first female students and a companion Webb School for Girls was added. Both schools combined and Webb became coeducational in 1968. In 1974, Webb reorganized to provide a Middle School – grades five through eight – and an Upper School – grades 9 through 12. With the opening of Webb’s Lower School in 1998, Webb now boasts three divisions: Lower School – pre-kindergarten through fifth grade; Middle School – grades six through eight; and Upper School –grades nine through 12.

Educational Focus

Pursuing the ideals of honor in our conduct, diligence in our work, and decency in our relationships lies at the heart of Webb School. Our strength as a community lies with our ability to work together and help each other develop as caring, responsible, good human beings and scholars. Webb encourages and embraces a love of learning and the pursuit of excellence in a community where respect, trust, truthfulness, and responsibility are valued. Webb expects that each individual in the community will comply with the discipline that fosters the common good, adhere to high intellectual and moral standards, act with honor, and accept responsibility for his or her actions.

Honor Code

The Honor Code and the Honor System through which it is applied in the Upper School are two of the most important aspects of Webb’s educational mission.

A Webb School student is expected to live by an Honor Code, which asserts:

I will not lie, cheat, or steal – nor tolerate those who do.

By this code, students accept responsibility for their own conduct and for reporting circumstances in which they perceive that an honor offense may have occurred. The Honor Code applies to the use of technology as well as to any other aspect of life at Webb School. Please see Honor Code and Computer Code of Ethics in this handbook.

Diversity

Webb School of Knoxville is an outstanding educational community of students, teachers, administrators, staff, parents and trustees. We believe the lessons to be learned from a diverse community with various socioeconomic, ethnic, racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds enrich the educational experience.

Accreditation

Webb School of Knoxville is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Southern Association of Independent Schools. Webb is also a member of the National Association of Independent Schools and the Tennessee Association of Independent Schools.

Disciplinary Philosophy

Webb School seeks to develop in each student communal respect, individual self-discipline, and personal responsibility. At the same time, Webb clearly recognizes the importance of boundaries and the consequences to students for overstepping them.

For example, respecting the rights of the community and developing self-discipline mean one respects others’ property, behaves appropriately inside and outside the classroom, exhibits good manners, waits one’s turn in the cafeteria, and eats during the assigned lunch period. Concern for cleanliness and the environment means not littering; nor defacing or damaging school property. All members of the Webb community are expected to demonstrate civility which requires listening appropriately, using respectful language, and being gracious and grateful.

When necessary, we administer disciplinary consequences to foster personal responsibility and respect for the spirit and letter of the rules. We believe justice in a school should balance community welfare, the needs of the student, and the nature and circumstances of the offense.

Upper School Research Library

The Upper School Research Library and Reading Room serve Upper School students and the faculty and staff of Webb School. The library supports the philosophy and educational goals of Webb School to fully nurture the potential of each individual and prepare students to serve as leaders in tomorrow’s world by focusing on information literacy, diverse collections, and curricular support and collaboration. Through the Upper School Research Library, students have access to over 10,000 books, eBooks, and audiobooks and over 60 online databases of journal articles, newspapers, magazines, images, and videos. More information and access to resources can be found at the Upper School Research Library website: http://webbschool.libguides.com.

RESEARCH LIBRARY

The Upper School Research Library is open 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and offers space for individual and group study, learning, and collaboration. Students are encouraged to come to the library anytime.

RESEARCH LIBRARY PRIVILEGES

Any student may check out up to five books and eBooks for three weeks, and these materials can be renewed. Books being used by a class will be placed on a reserve cart and may only be checked out for short periods of time. Students also have access to interlibrary loan (ILL) for research materials. Interlibrary loan is a service that provides books and research articles that are not already in the Webb collection.

RESEARCH HELP

Ms. Lewallen is available to help students with research projects. Please feel free to ask her for help anytime. Students can also make research help appointments on the library’s website.

OFF-CAMPUS ACCESS TO ONLINE RESOURCES

EBooks, digital audiobooks, and online databases can be accessed 24/7 from anywhere with an internet connection. If a student is not on the Webb campus, they will need to log in using their school Gmail username and password.

LOST & OVERDUE BOOKS

Students will receive email reminders for soon-to-be-due and overdue books, and students may reply to these emails to renew books. If a student believes they have lost a book, they should notify the library. Students are responsible for replacing the book. The student may replace the book in one of two ways:

1. Pay the library for the cost of the book.

2. Bring in a copy of the book in the same format and condition as the original copy.

Learning Center

The Upper School Learning Center is available to help all students identify and meet their academic goals. The center offers a supportive learning environment that helps prepare students to become effective, independent learners. It also helps students strengthen their academic and organizational skills, which will allow them to reach their full potential. The center is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and/or by appointment.

Academic Reporting

All students receive a Mid-Semester Progress Report, which provides written comments by their teachers and a grade update. Semester grades are issued at the end of the first and second semesters and are reflected on the report card and transcript. There is no yearly grade reflected on the report card or transcript. Also, teachers send special progress reports from time to time in order to report performance worthy of attention or commendation, or to point out difficulties.

Faculty will report to parents any significant change in a student’s academic performance as well as any grade below a C- on major tests and papers.

Parent Conferences

All parents are invited to meet with their child’s advisor during two scheduled conferences each year. In the fall, advisors meet with parents to focus on the student’s academic and social adjustment. In the spring conference, parents and advisors discuss student performance and scheduling options for the coming year. Parent/teacher conferences are also offered in the fall for parents to meet briefly with their child's teachers. As the need arises, parents or the school may request additional conferences with a student’s teachers, advisor and/or class dean.

2022-2023 Upper School Academic Calender

FIRST SEMESTER

First Day of Classes

Parent/Advisor Conferences

All-School Student Holiday

Labor Day Holiday

Yom Kippur Holiday

All-School Fall Holiday

PSATs – Grades 9-11

Senior College Visiting Holiday

Parent/Teacher Conferences

All-School Student Holiday

Faculty/Staff Development

All-School Student Holiday

Thanksgiving Holiday

August 12

August 26

September 5

October 5

October 10-14

October 25

October 28

October 31

SECOND SEMESTER

Second Semester Begins January 9

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day January 16

All-School Student Holiday

Founder's Day Holiday

Presidents' Day Holiday

Faculty/Staff Inservice

All-School Student Holiday

Spring Break

February 17

February 20

February 21

March 13-17

Parent/Advisor Conferences March 31

All-School Student Holiday

Good Friday Holiday April 7

AP Exams

November 23-25

Upper School Exams Review Days: December 12-14 Exams: December 15-21

Holiday Break December 22 – January 6

End of First Semester December 21

Inclement

Weather Closings

Inclement weather decisions are made early in the morning at the latest. Families are notified by an automated phone call and text and information is posted to the school website. Students and parents are asked not to call school personnel. Students are responsible for assigned work when classes next meet.

Graduation

May 1-5, May 8-12

May 14

Undergraduate Exams Review Days: May 17-19

Exams: May 22-26

Last Day of School (half-day) May 26

End of Second Semester

Honor Code & Computer Code of Ethics

Webb Upper School Honor System

One of the most important aspects of Webb School is its Honor System. The objective of this system is to instill in students values that will enable them to conduct themselves with integrity. It is Webb’s desire that the spirit of the Honor System continue to grow and become a force in the life of every student. For such a system to be effective, every member of the Webb School community – students, parents, faculty, and staff – must believe in and support its principles. Every school year, all students, faculty, and parents pledge their understanding and willingness to comply with this system.

Webb Honor Code

I. The Honor Code governs all Webb students at all times and in all places. Student conduct in the six areas governed by the Honor Code must conform to the following:

Lying: In any instance in which a student is asked a question, he/she is on his/her honor to tell the truth. Deliberate verbal or written falsification is a form of lying and is, therefore, a violation of the code. Deliberately allowing a false assumption to be drawn also constitutes lying.

Stealing: Students are on their honor not to steal. No student has the right to take or use anything which is not his/her without the express consent of the owner. Thus, “borrowing” without permission may be considered stealing.

Cheating: Students are on their honor neither to give nor to receive any unauthorized information in any form of schoolwork where credit is earned or lost.

Plagiarism: Plagiarism is a form of cheating and is often a difficult concept for some students. Students must give credit on all writing assignments for work that is not exclusively their own – whether that work is specifically quoted or paraphrased.

Technology Misuse: Honor violations involving misuse of technology encompass some components of all of the above. In general, students should not

do anything with their technology resources that would constitute lying, stealing, or cheating. Specifically, students may not electronically misrepresent who they are, send emails that deliberately conceal their identity, or borrow passwords, files or documents from other students without their permission.

Condoning: Students are expected to do all in their power to support the community of trust embodied in the Honor Code and are expected to not condone violations of the Code by others.

II. Every faculty member must, and parents, staff, and students should, when aware of an infraction of the Honor Code, report the infraction to the Honor Committee or a faculty member. If not, the observing student should talk with the person committing the offense. Peer opinion and communication can help establish an atmosphere of personal honor.

III. An Honor Committee hearing is conducted as follows:

A suspected violation of the Honor Code is reported by a faculty member, a student witness or the violator to a student member or faculty sponsor of the Honor Committee. Faculty representatives on the Honor Committee conduct a thorough and immediate investigation. At all times during the investigation, confidentiality is stressed and the anonymity of the person who reported the violation is preserved. The focus for the committee is the discernment of the truth. As such, the process is not adversarial; this means that students on the committee do not take (nor are they assigned) sides “for” or “against” a student as they would if this were a legal proceeding. Students who come before the committee have every opportunity to speak freely about the situation in a conversation (not a debate) with the committee members who are able to ask questions of the student throughout the meeting.

After the investigation, the faculty representatives will determine whether there are sufficient grounds for the committee to meet. If the evidence warrants it, they will set a time and place for a hearing by 10-12 members of the Honor Committee.

Prior to the hearing, the faculty representatives will inform the student suspected of an honor violation of the pending hearing. Information will include time and place of the hearing, a summary of committee procedures, and a brief synopsis of the suspected violations. Although

parents may not attend the hearing, the student may select an advocate – any member of the Webb faculty or staff, but generally a teacher, counselor, or advisor – to be present at the hearing. Due to potential conflict of interest, an administrator or a faculty representative to the Honor Committee may not serve as a student advocate. The function of the advocate is to provide support for the student and to ensure a fair hearing, but not to enter actively into the proceedings.

Every effort is made to see that the hearing is conducted in an atmosphere of fairness, respect and confidentiality. The faculty representatives instruct witnesses and committee members not to discuss any of the proceedings outside. If a faculty member or student reports the alleged violation, the committee may call that person to the actual hearing to review and discuss the facts as then known. In the hearing, the witness relates the possible violation observed and is questioned by the committee. Next, the student in question is called before the committee for discussion and questioning. Witnesses may be called for testimony several times before the committee offers a recommendation.

During the investigation, the faculty representative assigned to the hearing will give aid, direction and advice. It is, however, the student members of the committee who run the hearing, discuss the information and reach a decision. A faculty representative will then inform the Head of Upper School of the outcome. The Head of Upper School will review the information, approve, disapprove, modify the decision, give advice in case of disapproval, and receive any requests for appeal. The Head of the Upper School will determine the appropriate consequence.

If the committee cannot reach a decision or finds that no violation occurred, the student will be informed of the decision as soon as possible by the faculty representatives. In such cases, all written records of his/her involvement in the case will be destroyed. If the student is found to have violated the Honor Code, he/she will be called before the faculty representative and the Head of Upper School who will inform the student of the decision, entertain any comments or questions, and discuss the implementation of consequences. The Head of Upper School, or faculty representative will then inform parents of the decision, generally by telephone. The faculty representative to the committee will also inform the student’s teacher (if the honor offense involved a teacher), advisor, and class dean about the outcome immediately following the committee meeting.

IV. Students who have committed honor offenses may be subject to the following penalties:

A. The first offense in the Upper School may result in an in-school restriction or an out-of-school suspension.

B. A second offense will result in an out-of-school suspension or dismissal.

C. If a student is found in violation of the Honor Code a third time, he/she will be dismissed from Webb School.

D. All records of honor violations remain in a student’s file during his/her tenure at Webb School.

V. An appeal of the Honor Committee’s decision should be directed first to the Head of Upper School and then, if necessary, to the school President. Such appeals can be made only on the grounds of procedural unfairness or the discovery of new information not presented during the original hearing. In cases of proposed expulsion or dismissal, the final determination is made by the President.

VI. Jurisdiction over violations of the Honor Code rests with the Webb School Honor Committee. All written examinations, assignments, tests, and quizzes that take place in class are conducted under the Honor System. Violations pertaining to all other academic work, including essays, term papers, take-home tests, and laboratory reports, are also conducted under the Honor System and are based on the specific instructions given by the teacher. Collaborative work is permitted only with the approval of the teacher.

Teachers at Webb often assign work to be done outside of class but under test conditions. In such instances, the teacher may require that no study aids (notes, books, communication with others) be used by the students. Webb students are expected to conduct themselves in such ways that they can be trusted to do the right thing at all times.

VII. An explanation of the Honor Code is included in the admission materials of all newly admitted students and their parents, who then signify by signing the Honor Code statement that they understand and will abide by the conditions of the Honor Code. Final entrance to Webb School is contingent upon a student’s signing of and agreement with this statement.

A review of the Honor Code and Honor Committee procedures is a part of faculty in-service days at the beginning of each school year.

Webb Information Network/ Computer Code of Ethics

The Webb School Information Network provides a powerful resource for all members of the Webb community. However, with this power comes responsibility. The computers and information network at Webb are provided for responsible users. Ethical questions surrounding the use of computers and other related technologies are the same as those found in other aspects of life at Webb School and covered by the Honor Code.

To help ensure responsible use, Webb students and their parent(s) are required to sign the school’s Computer and Internet Usage Protocol Form prior to the beginning of each new academic year. The Computer and Internet Usage Protocol is clearly explained within the text of the form. In addition, students and parents are reminded that the use of technology in any form (including, but not limited to, social networking sites) to intimidate, bully, harass, demean, and/or verbally attack a member of the student body, faculty, staff, or another parent will be treated as a major disciplinary event which may result in expulsion from Webb School. This includes actions described above that are generated off campus.

Moreover, students are expected to abide by the Webb School Honor Code with regard to plagiarism and provide appropriate documentation for any and all material found on the internet.

Finally, students are expected to respect the right to privacy of others. Students are not allowed to access or use another student’s personal computer information and students are not allowed to access another student’s email account.

Any violation of the school’s Computer Code of Ethics may be an honor and/or disciplinary event. The school will determine the type of offense.

WEBB SCHOOL'S RESPONSIBILITY

Webb School has the right and responsibility to monitor student email accounts and to monitor all material downloaded from the internet.

Upper School Academic Life

Academic Program & Focus

The heart of any excellent school must be the quality of its academic program. Webb’s curriculum is an integrated four-year program based on the premise that there is a body of knowledge that every member of our school community should acquire. Hence, graduation requirements include courses in the arts, humanities, and the sciences. The sequence of course requirements provides a balance between gaining a solid academic foundation and exploring a wide range of disciplines. Beyond that, the curriculum is designed to provide students with a range of educational opportunities that satisfy the most exacting requirements for entrance to colleges and universities.

In addition to preparing students for the next step in the educational process, Webb also believes that we should prepare students to be confident, independent, and responsible citizens in the 21st century. It is our aim to help students learn to lead their day-to-day lives with compassion and kindness and a commitment toward service to others.

Grades & Academic Reports to Parents

After each grading period, families are able to view their student’s grade report online. In addition to the grades that teachers send at the end of a marking period, teachers send progress reports as needed, and advisors hold two scheduled conferences with parents annually. As the need arises, other conferences can be called by parents or teachers.

Grades earned at Webb School are based on a general standard of college preparatory work. Since faculty have some discretion in the computation of grades, students should familiarize themselves with the expectations of each instructor. Faculty evaluate student performance on an A, B, C, D, F scale with pluses and minuses possible. The highest GPA possible is a 5.0. Grades that appear on the report card and the transcript have not been weighted. However, in calculating the GPA, Webb assigns a (.5) weight for honors courses and a (1.0) for AP courses. The GPA calculation includes all grades from courses taken at Webb in grades 9 through 12, except for Freshman Seminar, physical education/athletic participation, and community service.

Graduation Requirements

In order to provide students with a liberal arts education and to prepare them for matriculation into higher education, Webb School requires that students successfully complete the following courses in the Upper School. In addition to the required core courses listed, Webb further requires students to successfully complete at least five academic courses each semester. It is the responsibility of students to complete all graduation requirements.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

1 Credit: 3 athletic seasons (1/3 credit = 1 season)

Approved Alternate P.E. activity: (120 hours = 1 credit; 40 hours = 1/3 credit)

COMMUNITY SERVICE

60 Hours – 15 hours per academic year

The minimum load for a student is five academic classes each semester. If a student fails to pass a course for a semester, he or she must make up or retake that course if it is a requisite for graduation. If it is not a course necessary for graduation, the student must replace the unearned credit by taking an additional course (beyond the required five) in a subsequent semester.

Physical Education

Students are required to earn one unit in physical education before their senior year begins. They may choose one or a combination of interscholastic athletics or approved inside or outside-of-school alternatives. One physical education credit equals three (3) athletic seasons or approved Alternate P.E. activity of 120 hours of participation. The office of the Director of Athletics supervises and approves all alternatives.

Letter Grades

Webb's Upper School defines letter grades as follows:

A Consistent and exceptional performance and achievement in all areas of a course.

B Commended performance and achievement in all areas of the course.

C Adequate performance and achievement in the course, but lacking commendatory strength in all areas of the course.

D Partial completion of the minimum requirements of a course or inadequate performance and achievement in the course *

F Failure to meet the minimum requirements of the course.

* Note: While a “D” grade is a passing grade at Webb, certain Webb academic sequences require at least “C-” grades for students to move to the next level in the sequence.

GRADING SCALE & GPA CONVERSION

. All subjects except physical education/athletic participation, community service, and Freshman Study Hall/Seminar are included in the cumulative GPA. Due to small class size and the competitive nature of admissions, rank in class is not used

Academic Requirements for Athletic Eligibility

As a member of the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA), Webb School adheres to the minimum academic standards required by this governing body concerning athletic eligibility for student-athletes. Moreover, Webb will conform to the academic guidelines that more accurately identify the expectations of our school community. (For details, contact Webb Athletic Director, David Meske.)

Transcripts

Upon receipt of a transcript release form signed by both parent and student, and with clearance from Webb's Business Office, Webb School will mail official transcripts to designated institutions, agencies or programs. Transcripts given to students or parents will be stamped “UNOFFICIAL.”

Only semester grades are listed on a student’s transcript.

Homework

While the amount of time that a student spends on homework varies from student to student, Upper School students should expect to spend approximately two to three hours per day on homework. Such a general guide does not include long-range assignments.

Test/Examination Policy

The dates and times for full-period tests and major projects are scheduled by the teachers. Students are not required to take more than two tests per day. Students who have more than two tests per day scheduled should meet with their teachers to make other arrangements.

The first semester final examination for ninth grade students is worth 10 percent of the student’s grade, and the second semester final examination for ninth grade students is worth 15 percent of the student’s grade. Semester final examinations for students in grades 10, 11, and 12 count for no more than 20 percent of the final grade.

Students are expected to take their semester examinations during their scheduled periods. Students who fail to follow this direction risk receiving a failing grade for their examinations. Exceptions to this policy include, but are not limited to, emergency situations, verifiable illness or injury. Any exception to this policy must be approved by the Head of Upper School.

Drop/Add Policy

Given the thorough counseling and scheduling process completed in the spring, a student’s need to change (add, drop or move) courses should be a relatively rare occurrence. If, however, students see the need to adjust their schedules, the request for a change should occur during the first two weeks of the semester. In order to make a schedule change, students must complete a Change of Schedule Request form, discuss the appropriateness of the class change with their teachers, advisors, class deans, college counselors, and parents, and have the completed forms approved by an administrator (signature required with a validated copy of the form in hand) before actually changing the class. The Head of Upper School will approve all class changes. Students who fail to follow this procedure are subject to academic and disciplinary consequences. Although students may withdraw from a year-long course as late as October 1 with appropriate approval, they cannot add a new course after the first two weeks of the start of a semester. As a result, no student will be allowed to drop a year-long course after the first two weeks of the start of school unless the student is taking a total of six or more academic courses.

Conversely, students may not drop a semester course after the first two weeks of the start of the semester unless they are enrolled in a total of six courses or more that same semester.

If students must move from AP or Honors courses into College Preparatory sections, student work for the previous AP or Honors course is counted in the semester grade for the new course. In most cases, the new teacher will determine the appropriate semester grade based largely on the student’s work in the new class. In all cases, the teachers involved in the move will work out a fair and reasonable calculation of a student’s grade.

Special Academic Situations

While the school policy is to accommodate, within reason, unusual and unexpected situations affecting academic matters for each student, the school reserves (at its discretion) the right to make final academic determinations for the curriculum and performance of each student.

Some students admitted to the Upper School will be required to strengthen their skills in mathematics and/or English in Webb’s summer program before entrance or before continuing their fall program.

Academic Acceleration

Subject to the approval of the Upper School Head, students may accelerate studies in some academic areas.

Independent Study

Students wishing to pursue an academic interest not covered by the established curriculum may engage in an independent study lasting for one or two semesters under the direction of a faculty member. Students must petition the teacher, department chair, and Head of Upper School in writing; a proposal for the independent study should describe the nature of the study, the objectives, the necessary procedures needed to accomplish the objectives, the specific content and assessments for the study, and the evaluation process employed, along with any additional requirements and responsibilities. Students should pick up and complete an Independent Study Contract (ISC) from the Upper School Office. ISC submissions are due at the same time as course requests each semester.

For independent study coursework, students receive only ¼ credit for a semester course and ½ credit for a yearlong course. Students will not receive an honors or AP weight adjustment in their GPA for independent study coursework

Prerequisites for independent study are a demonstrated ability to sustain independent work of high quality, some prior knowledge of the field of study, and the agreement of a faculty member to serve as a student’s advisor to the study. Students must meet with the teacher a minimum of two class periods each week.

Any exceptions to this policy must be approved in advance, in writing, by the teacher, the appropriate department chair, and the Head of Upper School.

Programs of Study Beyond Webb School &/or Independent Study Proposals

Students may not take courses outside of Webb School of Knoxville, engage in online coursework, and/or do independent study coursework to satisfy a Webb School graduation requirement or meet the required course load expectation for each semester (each student is required to be enrolled in at least five classes each semester). However, students may choose to take classes outside of Webb School, engage in online coursework, and/or do independent study coursework as an extra course going beyond the school’s academic requirements and the standard minimum of five courses each semester requirement. It should be noted that grades earned in this way will not be included in the student’s Webb School GPA.

Tutoring

Effective tutoring and other forms of outside assistance – whether from a teacher, a parent, a friend, or a tutor – may strengthen a student’s skills. However, such assistance should be limited to helping strengthen skills, outlining, and ideas; specifically, it must not include the actual doing of problems or the writing of essays.

GUIDELINES FOR TUTORING

1) Of particular importance in an academic community is truthfulness. The expectation that teachers, students, and parents speak the truth is absolutely essential to the conduct of instruction. With this in mind, parents promote their child’s growth to maturity when they give accurate information in all faculty-parent communications, never support their children in a lie, nor compromise their child’s integrity by doing their child’s work or employing a tutor in such a way that personal integrity is violated.

2) Before any tutor is employed, Webb first encourages students to ask for help from their teachers when difficulties or questions arise in classroom work. Webb teachers make themselves available throughout the day and after school to assist students who have questions about their school work. The access that students have to their teachers is one of the most distinguishing qualities of a Webb education. Often, this simple interaction between student and teacher resolves the difficulty and answers the student’s questions.

3) Before a faculty member recommends tutoring, he/ she must consult with his/her department chair and receive approval for the tutoring.

4) Students who employ off-campus tutors and meet with these tutors during the school day must first coordinate any such arrangement with the Upper School Learning Specialist, Lindsey Whitsett.

Incompletes

Students who receive Incompletes for a marking period must complete the work and receive their grades by the end of the first two weeks of the next grading period. The school may place students who do not fulfill the requirements necessary to resolve their Incompletes on academic restrictions. Exceptions to this policy must be approved by the Head of Upper School.

Making Up Missed Work

A student who misses taking a test on the regularly scheduled test date must make arrangements with his/ her teacher to take that missed test with his/her teacher or during either the morning or afternoon test make-up sessions.

Tests and quizzes are to be made up the next available make-up session or in a time not to exceed the number of school days missed plus one with one exception: a student who arrives late or checks out of school during the day of a test or quiz will be expected to take the missed test/quiz at the next test or make-up session. A student who fails to complete the required work in the aforementioned time period will likely receive a significant academic penalty. Students must make up all work missed in a timely way or risk losing credit for that work.

The times and locations of make-up sessions are posted at school (see chart below). Students attending these sessions must arrive promptly. The responsibility for knowing what work needs to be completed and for meeting the required schedule belongs to the student.

Academic Deficiencies

Students must receive passing grades in all courses that are required for graduation. In addition to subject requirements, Webb also requires students to enroll in five academic courses each semester. It is important to note that while a grade of D- is a passing grade for Webb School, a grade of D-, D, or D+ does have implications for sequential courses in English and World Languages. Please understand that when it is necessary to repeat a course, either during the regular school year or during the

summer, a new (or second) grade does not replace the original grade on the transcript. Instead, Webb School includes the new grade on the transcript and includes the new grade in the GPA calculation.

PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING:

• Students who receive a D-, D or D+ in the first semester of a sequential course must meet with the chair of that department, college counselor, and the Head of Upper School to address the situation. If the student earns a grade of C- or better for the second semester of this course, he/ she may progress on to the next class in the sequence. If a student does not earn a grade of C- or better for the second semester, they may be required to repeat the semester in either a summer school program or during the next regular school year before he/she moves on to the next course in the sequence.

• Students who receive a grade of an F for a semester in a required course must repeat that semester, either in a summer school program or during the next regular school year.

Any exceptions to the policies noted above require approval from the Head of Upper School.

Academic Warning & Academic Probation Policy

At Webb School, the processes of Academic Warning and Academic Probation serve as official notification intended to impress upon the student the seriousness of his/her academic status. As well, these processes serve to help identify strategies for improvement and to provide consistent support for such improvement. Any Upper School student who earns two or more grades of D+, D, or D- or one or more grades of F in any marking period will be placed on Academic Warning. Any student already on Academic Warning whose grades do not improve significantly by the end of the marking period will be placed on Academic Probation. Additionally, any student who displays a significant decline in achievement at any point in a marking period may be placed directly on Academic Warning or Academic Probation at the discretion of the Head of Upper School.

If a student’s academic performance becomes unsatisfactory, his/her parents will receive communication informing the family of the Academic Warning status earned by their child and the details regarding this process. This process may include some or all of the following supportive measures:

• The student and his/her parents will be expected to attend an initial meeting which may include the following faculty members: advisor, class dean, learning specialist, guidance counselor, classroom teacher(s), and Head of the Upper School.

• This academic support group is assembled to discuss the student’s academic achievement and to identify strategies for improvement. Parents are informed that if significant improvement does not occur, their child may be placed on Academic Probation.

• During this period of review, the student will be required to meet once a week with his/her advisor to ensure that the improvement plan is being followed. The advisor will also communicate with the student’s teachers, as needed, to monitor the student’s progress.

• During this period of review, the student will attend all scheduled academic support sessions that are deemed appropriate until the end of the academic marking period or until the Head of Upper School believes that there is a significant improvement in the student’s deficient course(s).

• Such support sessions may include supervised study halls, peer-tutoring appointments, extra-help sessions with teachers, and appointments at the Learning Center.

• During the period of time that a student is placed on Academic Warning or Academic Probation, the student may be restricted from participation in any or all co-curricular activities

• Furthermore, a student may also be restricted from any activity that requires the student to miss any class time (for example: field trips, early dismissal for sporting events, or fine art performances).

Any student placed on Academic Probation will remain on probation for a minimum of one marking period, but a period of time not to exceed more than one semester. Any student on Academic Warning or Academic Probation who fails to improve his/her academic status may have his/her re-enrollment contract held and must improve his/her performance or risk not being invited to return to Webb School.

Academic Restriction

Students who receive one or more grades below C- in any grading period may lose early dismissal/late arrival privileges, be required to report to study halls during all free periods, and to schedule help sessions in those subjects where difficulties are present until the completion of the first half of the next grading period, at which time their academic status will be reviewed.

Also, students who receive one or more grades of Incomplete may receive similar restrictions.

Accommodations for Students with Documented Special Needs

In most cases, students achieve success in their academic work at Webb School through in-class instruction and tutorial help that teachers provide on a daily basis throughout the school year. Certainly, one of the special qualities about Webb is the abundant care and genuine concern for students demonstrated by so many members of the faculty. However, a few students may need additional support and services beyond the normal instruction. With these few in mind, Webb offers school services for students with special needs.

First, Webb expects that all students accepted for admission can complete successfully the graduation requirements of its rigorous, college preparatory program. However, a student may have or may develop a disability, impairment, or other disorder that requires special attention and consideration by the school. If a student is or becomes eligible for special arrangements or accommodations, Webb will do all that it can to respond to these special needs. The school will make every effort to reasonably accommodate a student with a documented disability in accordance with applicable law.

At the same time, the school wants families to take responsibility and develop strategies for coping with learning differences. With this in mind, Webb works together with students, their families, teachers, and educational therapists, if needed, so that students learn to help themselves. Webb does require specific actions to be taken by families as a condition of students’ receiving special accommodations. Actions may include, but are not limited to, counseling from an educational

therapist or study skills or learning specialist. The school desires for students to acquire the skills necessary to better manage their learning differences while they are in high school so that they may succeed not only in college but also in many other areas of their lives. In some exceptional cases, if a student’s needs require Webb to fundamentally alter the nature of its program, Webb may not be able to assist the student. If this should occur, a student may be asked to seek another school that can respond completely to the condition or disability.

The eligibility requirements, procedures, and accommodations for students with special needs, along with the formal application, are available from Lindsey Whitsett.

Upper School Community Service Program

Reflected in the school's Mission Statement is a commitment to nurture the individual student with, “particular focus on developments of character and leadership and commitment to service.” The Upper School Community Service Program educates students to the needs and realities of their immediate and extended community.

Opportunities are provided for personal growth and challenge, development of interpersonal relationships and leadership skills, growth in unfamiliar settings, and enhancement of academic skills.

The program serves to broaden the experience of service so that a student engages in a variety of service areas in the Upper School. It also strives to instill a commitment to the community, leadership, and initiative among the students, and to provide the knowledge base and support they need in their efforts.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

All students are required to complete 15 hours of community service a year, which must be completed by the last day of classes every academic year; with the exception of seniors, who must complete their service requirements by the conclusion of their spring break vacation. Students who have not completed their service hours by the deadline will need to discuss their plans for completing this requirement with the community service director.

The following activities do not constitute community service and will not receive credit:

• Assisting a relative (parents, siblings, grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, step-parents) or friend (babysitting, yard work)

• Participating in or preparing for a religious service

• Promoting a political candidate

• Engaging in service that fulfills a class requirement, such as performing at a theatrical or musical event or constructing a set for a theatrical event

• Direct donations to a cause

• Volunteering at a for-profit company

Students must submit a community service form within 90 days from the service opportunity. All forms must include appropriate signatures, date and hours of service, agency information, and reflections.

Standardized College Assessments Tests

PSAT/NMSQT

Webb administers the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT) to all freshmen, sophomores, and juniors during October. All students are automatically registered for the PSAT, and the test is administered on the Webb campus during school time. Only juniors are eligible for the National Merit Scholarship Competition.

PreACT

The PreACT is administered to each Webb sophomore in the spring semester. Results are shared with families and advisors. The score reports serve as a baseline discussion regarding areas of strength and concern for understanding of curriculum or test-taking skills..

SAT/ACT

Most colleges and universities require applicants to submit SAT and/or ACT scores. Virtually all schools will accept scores from either test when considering students for admission. Every school places different importance on the scores and uses them in different ways. Three possible uses of the scores are to make admission decisions, to make merit scholarship decisions, and for course placement decisions.

TESTING RECOMMENDATIONS

To fully maximize their college options, Webb students should follow the below recommendation of the College Counseling Office:

• SAT and/or ACT should be taken during the junior year, allowing the student the option of retaking the tests to improve their scores.

National Standardized Test Dates, 2022-2023

TEST

ACT

ACT

ACT

ACT

ACT

ACT

ACT

SAT

SAT

TEST DATES

September 10, 2022

October 22, 2022

December 10, 2022

February 11, 2023

April 15, 2023

June 10, 2023

July 15, 2023

August 27, 2022

October 1, 2022

SAT November 5, 2022

SAT December 3, 2022

SAT March 11, 2023

SAT May 6, 2023

SAT June 3, 2023

PSAT TEST: October 25, 2022

PreACT TEST: March 22, 2023

Upper School Daily Schedule, 2022-2023

REGISTRATION DEADLINES

August 5, 2022

September 16, 2022

November 4, 2022

January 6, 2023

March 10, 2023

May 5, 2023

June 16, 2023

July 29, 2022

September 2, 2022

October 7, 2022

November 3, 2022

February 10, 2023

April 7, 2023

May 4, 2023

AP TESTS: May 1-5, May 8-12, 2023

*Please be aware of the different times on Wednesday.

Upper School Awards & Honors

Student Awards

Webb's Upper School appreciates and recognizes the outstanding achievements of students each year by giving awards for excellence in courses, in scholarship, leadership, athletics, citizenship and community service. In recognizing the achievements of some students with special awards, the school does not diminish the importance and impact of those who have matured in so many positive ways during the year, who have made quiet but lasting contributions to the school, or who have enriched the lives of their classmates or the community.

Year-end academic honors are awarded to those students who have shown superior performance in each academic discipline. In addition to the awards listed in this handbook, seasonal sports banquets are held to honor outstanding athletic performance, marked improvement, and exceptional sportsmanship. Also, over the course of the academic year, Webb recognizes athletic and academic accomplishments and achievements of students during our daily Chapels.

SUBJECT AWARDS

English

• The RUTH P. GRAF AWARD for excellence in English is given to the top student in senior English in honor of this former Webb School faculty member.

• The GINNA MATHEWS MASHBURN AWARD FOR WRITING ABOUT LITERATURE is given to the author of the most outstanding essay in junior English. This award was established in honor of an esteemed colleague who devoted her 25-year career to teaching Webb students the skills and art to make literature meaningful to both themselves and to others.

• The WEBB SCHOOL AWARD FOR CREATIVE WRITING is given to the student whose writing has most enriched the life of the school.

• The EXTRA! AWARD FOR JOURNALISM recognizes those students whose contributions to The Spartan Spirit and Princeps far exceed what their job descriptions require.

Mathematics

• For more than 90 years, the RENSSELAER MEDAL has been awarded to promising juniors who have shown excellence in mathematics and science. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute guarantees a four-year merit scholarship for each medalist who is accepted and enrolls at the school.

• The GEORGE TURLEY AWARD, established in 1989 by members of the classes of 1961 and 1962 to honor George Turley, a mathematics teacher in the early years of Webb School, recognizes excellence in mathematics.

Science

• The BAUSCH AND LOMB HONORARY SCIENCE AWARD is presented to the junior who is considered the best student in science judged by the excellence of his or her work and the number and rigor of science courses taken.

• The GEORGE GRAFTON WILSON II AWARD, established in honor of longtime head of the science department, George Wilson, is given to a senior boy or girl who has shown high academic achievement in science and interest in science outside the classroom.

Social Studies

• The JAMES C. LINVILLE AWARD, established in 1985 to recognize the outstanding attributes of Capt. James C. Linville, USN Retired, who served as chairman of the school’s history department, is given to a student who has excelled in history/social studies.

• The ROBERT SAUNDERS AWARD, established by members of the Class of 1963 in honor of their classmate, Lt. Robert Saunders, who died in the Vietnam conflict, is given in recognition of commitment to service and excellence in social studies.

Visual & Performing Arts

Choral Music

• The CARLSON CHORAL MUSIC AWARD, established in memory of Scott Carlson Polk, Class of 1995, and to honor the continued commitment and legacy of the Carlson family to Webb School, is given to a senior who excels in the choral music program and who shows achievement, enthusiasm, and dedication.

Drama

• The DRAMA AWARD is given in recognition of a student’s theatrical work and dedication to the overall drama program. This award acknowledges diversity of dramatic interests, advocacy of the theatrical arts, and overall interest shown by the student for the arts both within the school community and beyond.

Wind Ensemble

• The DIRECTOR’S AWARD FOR BAND is an honorary award given to a student who has demonstrated outstanding musicianship, creativity, leadership, and service to the Webb School band program. Sponsored by the National Band Association, this award is presented to students who have distinguished themselves by showing superb dedication and sacrifice to the art of music, and most expressively, instrumental music.

• The JOHN PHILIP SOUSA AWARD, created in 1954 with the cooperation of Helen Sousa Albert and Priscilla Sousa, daughters of the famous composer and bandmaster, recognizes a student who has shown outstanding dedication and superior musicianship. This award has been a nationwide symbol of excellence in musical achievement and is considered the pinnacle of achievement in a high school band program.

String Orchestra Ensemble

• The DIRECTOR’S AWARD FOR STRING ORCHESTRA is an honorary award given to a student who has demonstrated outstanding musicianship, service, leadership, and creativity to the Webb School string orchestra program. This award is presented to students who have distinguished themselves by showing exceptional dedication and sacrifice to the art of music, and most expressively, instrumental music.

• The NATIONAL SCHOOL ORCHESTRA AWARD, inaugurated in 1960 as the counterpart to the Sousa Band Award, recognizes excellence in playing and contributions to the ensemble. This award is the highest honor one can bestow upon a member of a high school string orchestra.

Visual Art

• The CLOVER WATERMAN AWARD, established in honor of a former Webb School faculty member, is given to a student whose work in visual art is outstanding, and who demonstrates achievement, ability, and initiative.

World Languages

• The SHIRLEY SEIDEL BRIGGS AWARD is given to a junior or senior who has shown diligence, precision, high achievement, and interest in the study of world languages at Webb. Consideration is also given to contributions made to the language program through participation beyond the classroom.

French

• The BRIGITTE NIEDERDRENK AWARD was established by a former Webb School language teacher and her sister in honor of their mother, Brigitte Niederdrenk, who was fluent in several languages and whose language abilities and interest in other cultures influenced those with whom she came into contact. This award recognizes a student who has shown high academic achievement in French.

Latin

• The EMILY ANNE FISHER AWARD, established by the Class of 1976 in honor of this outstanding Latin instructor, recognizes scholastic achievement in Latin.

Spanish

• The HISPANIC HONOR SOCIETY MEDAL OF EXCELLENCE is given to a student who has shown high academic achievement in Spanish.

Mandarin Chinese

• The MANDARIN CHINESE AWARD is given to a student who has exhibited high academic achievement in the study of Mandarin Chinese.

SPECIAL AWARDS

• The JOHN W. GREEN AWARD FOR SCHOLARSHIP, established in 1956, recognizes a student from each grade level with the highest grade-point-average, to date, for this school year.

• The WILLIAM R. WEBB III CITIZENSHIP AWARD established to honor the founder of Webb School of Knoxville, recognizes students in each class who have enriched the school community through their exceptional commitment to excellence, loyalty, spirit, leadership, participation in school life, and service, often unselfishly, to others.

• The MOCKINGBIRD AWARD, established in 2007 by Robert and Mary Jo Potts, honors a ninth grade student who most embodies the literary characterization of a mockingbird as represented in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird: “. . . mockingbirds don’t do one thing but make music for us to enjoy . . . but sing their hearts out for us.” The recipient of this award is distinguished by the metaphorical music that he/she makes – music that is played through his/her kindness and honor, selflessness, gentle playfulness, and active involvement in the life of the Upper School.

• The CLINT WHITE AWARD, established by the Class of 1986 to honor the memory of their classmate, is given to a sophomore student who possesses a rare combination of consideration, humor, maturity, and optimism.

• The ANNE ZIRKLE AWARD, established by the Class of 1990 in memory of their friend and classmate, honors a junior boy or girl who is spiritually inquisitive, intellectually talented, compassionate, humble, and kind in spirit.

• The SHANE WEBB AWARD, established by the Class of 1985 in memory of their classmate, is given for academic and athletic excellence to a senior boy or girl who is committed to the ideals of hard work, the importance of higher academic training, and a career of service to others. The student must have earned at least a B average, participated in at least two sports, provided quality leadership both on and off the field, and plans to pursue a career in the field of medicine (including a degree in medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, physical therapy, psychiatry, or psychology).

• The JOYCE HUNTER AWARD, established by the Class of 1992 in honor of Joyce Hunter, longtime head of the mathematics department and girls’ track coach, recognizes a female scholar-athlete.

• The WARREN HEISER AWARD, established in 2013 by the Upper School faculty and staff in honor of Warren Heiser, longtime English teacher and coach, recognizes a male scholar-athlete.

• The NANCY S. THOMA AWARD, established by the Class of 1983 to honor a former college counselor, is given to a senior who renders a valuable service to the school through willingness to help others and a spirit of cooperation.

• The CHANCE-STRUDER AWARD, established in 1980, is given to a senior boy who has made a unique contribution to the life of the school through his sensitivity, insight, enthusiasm, and dedication. The award honors Art Chance and Ray Struder, both members of the Class of 1980, who through their courage in the face of adversity, enriched the school.

• The SERENDIPITY AWARD, established by Genevieve Hudson, former headmistress of the Webb School for girls, recognizes a senior girl whose presence has been beneficial to others, and who has made a contribution to both faculty and students.

• The JULIA DOSSETT WEBB SCHOLAR AWARD, established during Webb’s 50th Anniversary and in honor of Julia Dossett Webb, wife of Webb School founder, Robert Webb, recognizes a senior whose academic work is distinguished by a love of scholarship and who, by example, has contributed most to the academic morale of the school.

• The HUDSON CUP, named for Genevieve Hudson, former headmistress of the Webb School for girls, is awarded to a senior girl who best exemplifies the ideals of Webb School.

• The SPARTAN SPIRIT AWARD, established as a companion award to the Hudson Cup, is given to a senior boy who best exemplifies the ideals of Webb School.

• The AQUILLA “BABA” COOK  AWARD, established by the Class of 2004, is voted upon by the members of the senior class. This award is given each year to an outstanding member of the Webb School staff who by his/her cheerful and positive interaction with the school community, and especially the students, distinguishes him or herself.

• The ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP AWARD, established by the Class of 2003, is voted upon each year by the members of the senior class. This award recognizes a member of the graduating class who best exhibits the following character traits: friendliness, humility, respectfulness, compassion, and hard work.

• The ERIC ENCARNACION MEMORIAL AWARD, established by the Class of 2007, is voted upon by the members of the senior class. This award is given to a graduating senior who crosses social barriers in his or her class, and is valued as a friend by all.

• The DR. EDWARD L. TAUXE AWARD, established to recognize a most influential teacher, was first presented in 1969. This award, voted upon by the members of the senior class, honors a Webb School teacher who has had a most positive influence on the lives of the students and stimulated them in their academic pursuits.

AWARDS PRESENTED AT GRADUATION

• The MARGARET AND LEONHARD SCHEUERMANN

TROPHY is the highest award presented to a senior girl who best exemplifies the ideals of character, personal integrity, leadership, and high academic achievement.

• The DR. S.J. CHAPMAN MEMORIAL AWARD is the highest award presented to a senior boy who best exemplifies the ideals of scholarship, leadership, and personal integrity.

Valedictorian & Salutatorian

Valedictorian and Salutatorian distinction is granted to those seniors with the highest and second-highest grade-point-averages, respectively. Each year, administrators at Webb School determine a Valedictorian and Salutatorian by using weighted grades from students' high school careers at Webb. Grades in the final semester of senior year must reflect an equally strong effort; therefore, second semester senior effort can affect the determination of the Valedictorian and Salutatorian awards. Students entering Webb as late as the beginning of their sophomore year are also eligible. Students entering Webb their senior year are not eligible. The Head of Upper School will approve any exceptions to this process.

Cum Laude Society

Seniors inducted into Webb School of Knoxville’s Cum Laude Society chapter hold the distinction of exemplary scholarship. Founded in 1906 and patterned after the college honorary society Phi Beta Kappa, the Cum Laude Society recognizes outstanding academic achievement in secondary schools for the purpose of promoting excellence (Areté), justice (Diké), and honor (Timé). Candidates are eligible for induction into Webb School's chapter of the Cum Laude Society based on the following criteria:

• Weighted GPA calculations from grades earned, beginning with a student’s sophomore year and through the completion of the first semester of senior year.

• No more than a total of 20 percent of the senior class can be selected.

• In addition to academic excellence, membership is only given to students who have demonstrated good character, honor, and integrity in all aspects of their school life.

• Students who entered Webb School as a junior may be considered for candidacy if their current and past performance warrants it.

• Students entering Webb School as a senior are not eligible.

• The following courses are exempt from the GPA calculation: non-AP fine arts courses, WebbPress (journalism, Spartan Spirit, Pierian, Princeps yearbook) and Independent Study coursework.

National Honor Society

Since 1921, the National Honor Society (NHS) has used scholarship, service, character, and leadership as criteria for membership selection into its local chapters. Seniors and juniors who have been in attendance at Webb School for at least one full academic year, have earned a cumulative GPA of at least 4.20, and have been active in service activities are eligible for induction into Webb’s chapter of the NHS. A faculty council participates in the selection of members by evaluating each eligible student on the basis of academics, character, and leadership. National Honor Society members are expected to continue their exemplary contributions to the school and community.

Student Support Systems

Webb School offers many layers of support for students over the course of each year. At the core of this support is the faculty. Faculty share a commitment to outstanding teaching; to extending their experience, teaching, and caring beyond the classroom; to knowing the students as individuals; and to participating fully in the school community. Faculty members teach, debate, and stretch a student’s thinking, reward and punish when it is deserved, and hold each student to high standards. They also invest generously of their time, energy, and kindness in order for students to feel the touch of this guidance.

This nurturing learning environment is enhanced further by several support systems that help students feel that they are known and valued as individuals. Many avenues are open to students as they deal with personal and school problems, or when they simply need some good advice or just a shoulder to lean on. These avenues provide additional “nets” to catch and support students.

ADVISING & COUNSELING

During every year of their Webb experience, Upper School students have as their advisors either a faculty/ staff member or an administrator. Although students will likely meet on a regular basis in their advisee groups, advisors and advisees also interact informally, coming together for lunch or sharing leisure time.

Although advisor/advisee relationships differ, the main roles of an advisor are to monitor the academic progress of the student and to keep attuned to personal or family circumstances that might affect the student’s performance and experience at Webb. In addition, advisors often act as liaisons between parents and the school, working with the head and class deans to arrange conferences when necessary or requested. This system augments the many close informal faculty/student relationships that develop during the course of any school year. Students retain the same advisors throughout their Webb high school careers.

ACADEMIC COUNSELING & SCHEDULING

Scheduling for the next academic year occurs in late winter and early in the spring, and involves students, advisors, class deans, faculty, our college guidance counselors, department chairpersons, parents, school counselor, and the Head of Upper School. Webb encourages students to discuss their interests and

tentative selections during their scheduling meetings and to review the Curriculum Guide for answers to many of their questions.

Each department selects those students who may enroll in Honors or Advanced Placement courses based upon recommendations and grades.

We offer parent information evenings for each grade level. These meetings focus on personal development, scheduling for the fall, and college guidance issues appropriate for the year.

COLLEGE GUIDANCE

Although the record of Webb students in college admissions has been consistently strong, the school believes that the admission of its students into college is the natural by-product of a secondary education that is both rigorous in its demands and broad in its range. The goal of college guidance is to help students make informed choices about which colleges and universities best suit their needs and abilities.

Our college advisors act as facilitators in what frequently becomes an intensely personal process. They help students assess themselves, their preferences and biases, envision themselves in a variety of post-secondary institutions, refine their ability to make decisions, assume responsibility and independence, and learn that accepting risk and the possibility of rejection are important aspects of maturing. In our view, a successful college guidance program is one that finds seniors, within realistic expectations, happy with their college options come April, and even more important, content a year later that the school they chose was the right one for them.

Complete and early college guidance is viewed as a very important aspect of a student’s Upper School years. Webb’s college counselors Mark Seamon and Tyler Lewallen guide students through the process.

Many components form Webb’s college guidance program; these components include:

a) Individualized college counseling

b) College essay-writing workshops

c) Parent financial aid workshops

d) College information evenings for parents (fall and spring)

e) 11th grade student and parent college admissions workshops

f) Comprehensive written profiles of seniors

g) Ongoing dialogues with college admission representatives and deans of admission

h) Campus visitations with college administrators, teachers, and admissions personnel

i) A monthly college information newsletter for 11th and 12th graders and a quarterly newsletter for 9th and 10th graders.

Webb incorporates the body of tests required by most colleges into its individual college guidance: the PSAT is given to all 9th, 10th and 11th graders; the SAT is taken by juniors and seniors; and the SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) examinations are taken upon the completion of the requisite courses.

CLASS DEANS

The Upper School class deans serve as positive, supportive, and assertive role models for their respective classes. They are responsible for supervising, coordinating, and participating in all class activities, as well as facilitating grade-level discussions among teachers. The class deans serve as advisors and general liaisons for questions and concerns that might arise between students and faculty. They monitor the progress of students in their grade levels, intervene as necessary, and coordinate the work of the advisors and teachers at their grade levels.

CLASS OF 2023

CLASS OF 2024

Class Dean Class Dean

Terri Ward John Michelletto

CLASS OF 2025

CLASS OF 2026

Class Dean Class Dean

Heather Hillesheim Stephanie Spurlock

SCHOOL COUNSELORS

The Upper School Counselors Alex Ardison and Lindsey Whitsett provide on-campus, spontaneous, and scheduled professional support and personal counseling for students as needed or as requested. Students, their parents, and teachers can initiate contact with our school counselors at any time.

SCHOOL NURSE/ HEALTH CENTER

For all medical and health concerns throughout the year, Tommi Goodwin, our school nurse and Health Center Director, serves the medical needs of all students and faculty. Webb's Health Center is located in the Lower School. Nurse Goodwin can be reached at 865-291.3797

UPPER SCHOOL LEARNING SPECIALISTS

Ms. Lindsey Whitsett and Ms. Erin Carter coordinate our services for students with special needs. In this

role, they act as an educational resource for students, teachers, and parents.

Ms. Whitsett and Ms. Carter meet with students and parents, review educational testing, prescribe appropriate strategies for students that meet their individual learning needs, and conduct workshops for faculty on a range of educational and learning issues.

PEER SUPPORT

The peer support program in the Upper School is comprised of selected students who are trained in listening skills and can offer a confidential, nonjudgmental environment to fellow students in the school community.

Peer support students receive training in the

following areas: substance abuse, eating disorders, relationships, communication, school difficulties, stress management, death, suicide, grief, rape, depression, pregnancy, family issues, ethics, and friendships. They are also trained in assessing when to make a referral to an appropriate professional (pediatrician, social worker, religious leader, or psychologist). Upper School Counselor Alex Ardison serves as the advisor to the peer support program.

Upper School Attendance

Attendance Policy

Class attendance is an essential part of the educational philosophy and process at Webb School; the school will honor students’ choices regarding attendance by holding them accountable for those choices. It is the expectation of Webb that each student be in school and on time every day. When students are absent, all pertinent procedures included in this section must be followed in the ways described.

Students and parents are expected to be familiar with the school’s attendance policy and procedures, and it is their responsibility to communicate with the Attendance Coordinator, Leah Roberts, any and all absences from class or other school commitments When a student is or will be absent due to illness, or is running late for any reason, parents must phone the Upper School (291-3805) before 9:15 a.m. on the day of the absence.

Failure to follow the attendance policy may result in consequences for students. Finally, a student’s grade may be affected by excessive absences regardless of the reason for the absence.

EXCESSIVE ABSENCES

Students with excessive absences (10 percent of any one class per semester), risk forfeiting academic privileges, athletic privileges, and course credits. If absences become excessive (10 percent of any one class per semester), parent conferences are expected, and re-enrollment contracts or diplomas may be withheld.

An exception to this policy involves situations that require a medical leave of absence from school. Such an exception requires the approval of the Head of Upper School and only after documentation from a physician(s) has been submitted to the school for review.

ABSENCES OR TARDIES TO FIRST PERIOD

Classes start at 8:20 a..m., Monday through Friday, and 8:40 a.m. on Wednesdays. Students who have a first period are expected to be at school on time for their first class of the day. If a student arrives late, they are required to check in with our Attendance Coordinator, Leah Roberts.

If a student has a first period class and arrives to school after 8:40 a.m., he/she must still attend the first period class but with the understanding that he/she has

missed enough of the class period to be marked absent for that class. Students who mistakenly sleep through a class and subsequently miss a class will be given an unexcused absence, regardless of parental permission. In addition, we ask that students driving to school make the necessary arrangements to leave early enough from home in the morning so as to arrive to their first period class on time. Any unforeseen delay driving to school will be reviewed by a member of the Student Life Office.

NOTE: A parent phone call does not automatically excuse the absence or tardy.

CLASS CUTS

If a student deliberately misses a class (including labs, Chapel, or other school commitments), he or she may expect to receive a detention. A second offense will result in a Saturday School. The absence will be considered unexcused; therefore, the teacher does not accept missed assignments or offer make-up work of any kind.

ANTICIPATED STUDENT ABSENCES

Students and parents are strongly discouraged from using school days for absences other than medical or emergency reasons. Webb asks parents not to schedule appointments or travel plans that take place before the end of the school day or before vacation periods begin. In rare instances when class time is missed, students must understand that they will be responsible for their make-up work. In Webb’s college preparatory environment, unnecessary student absences do cause additional work, challenges, and, in some cases, stress for students upon their return.

Students who know that they will miss school for college visits, court dates, or other personal reasons must complete an Anticipated Absence Form. This form is available in the Upper School Office. The student must take the form to all of his/her teachers for signatures. The completed form must be returned to Attendance Coordinator, Leah Roberts, at least one day prior to the first day of absence.

Students missing class for medical appointments, religious holidays, or schoolsponsored events do not need to complete an Anticipated Absence Form, but they are required

to notify their teachers and the Attendance Coordinator prior to anticipated absences. The student is responsible for arranging with their teachers for the timely completion of all work missed as the result of the absences. If a student fails to make up work on schedule, he/she may receive a zero or some other academic consequence for the work missed.

COLLEGE VISITS

All students planning to miss any part of a school day to visit a college must complete an Anticipated Absence Form before going on the college visit. The completed form should be returned to Leah Roberts before any classes are missed. College visits planned in conjunction with a school holiday must have visit verification documentation from the school for an excused absence. Seniors may take as many college visits as necessary during their final year here at Webb School. All other students will be limited to no more than three approved college visits each academic year.

APPOINTMENTS

Students should not have appointments during the school day. After school, weekends, holidays, and vacation periods should be used for appointments.

In the rare instance where a student wishes to be excused from class for a medical, dental, or orthodontist appointment, or a court appearance, the following procedure should be followed:

Students who will miss the start of the school day for an appointment must have a parent contact Leah Roberts at 291-3805 by 9:15 a.m. on the day of the appointment. If a student leaves campus for an appointment, he/she must have a parent contact Ms. Roberts prior to leaving campus.

Upon returning to school, a student who misses any class time as the result of an appointment with a doctor, dentist, or other health care provider, must bring a note signed by the doctor's, dentist's, or other health care provider's office confirming the appointment . It will be considered an "unexcused" absence without such documentation.

Any student who does not follow the above procedure may be considered to have skipped a class without approval.

TARDINESS

Since tardiness is disruptive to instruction, students should always be mindful of the importance of arriving on time for each class. The same criteria for an absence, whether excused or unexcused, are applied to tardiness. Students who arrive late to school must get a class admittance slip from the Attendance Coordinator. Students who arrive late to class without an admittance slip will be sent back to the Upper School Office for a tardy slip. Students who arrive 20 or more minutes late for a class will be marked absent for that class. Each student will be allowed two (2) tardies per half-semester without a consequence from the school.

• 3rd & 4th Tardy = After-School Detention

• 5th & 6th Tardy = Three-Hour Saturday School

• 7th Tardy = Non-Drivers: Three-Hour Saturday School/Drivers: Removal of Parking Privileges for One Week.

After the 8th tardy, there will be a meeting with parents and a member of the Student Life Office.

NOTE: All detentions will be scheduled during one of the next three available time slots of the occurring infraction

DETENTION SCHEDULE

Morning Detention

7:25 a.m. - 8:10 a.m.

Tuesday, Thursday, Friday

Afternoon Detention

3:45 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday

Tardies are a disruption to the learning environment and will continue to be an area of focus. .

ILLNESS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY

When students need to go to the school's Health Center/ nurse's office during the school day, they should either check with the Attendance Coordinator, Leah Roberts, in the Upper School Office or they may proceed directly to the nurse’s office if their teacher gives them permission. Because Webb is responsible for a student’s safety during the school day, it is imperative that he/she can be accounted for at all times. Therefore, it is important to note that students must always obtain permission from a member of the faculty before going to the school's Health Center. Any student who does not follow the above procedure will be considered as having cut a class.

DISMISSAL FROM CLASS

A student who is dismissed from a class for behavioral reasons is required to see a member from the Office of Student Life immediately for consequences. If the student misses more than half of the class as a result, he or she will be marked absent (unexcused) for the class.

LEAVING CAMPUS WITHOUT PERMISSION ELIGIBILITY FOR CO-CURRICULAR PARTICIPATION

To participate in co-curricular activities (including dances and athletic events) after school, students must be present for a majority of the school day. Therefore, a student must attend at least three academic classes to be allowed to participate. Exceptions include medical appointments, religious commitments, or family emergencies. A member from the Office of Student Life will approve all exceptions to this policy.

Since the health and safety of students are of primary importance to our mission as a school, Webb considers students who leave campus during any part of the school day, without authorization from a member of the Office of Student Life, to have committed a serious offense. This first violation of this school policy will typically result in the loss of driving privileges on campus for two weeks. A second violation of this policy will include an out-of-school suspension. In addition, students who do not yet drive from home to school and who violate this policy will face consequences, including two weeks of after-school detention and Saturday School.

EARLY DISMISSAL/LATE ARRIVAL

SIGNING IN & OUT

Students leaving early from or arriving late to campus for any reason must sign in or out in the Upper School Office. This includes students who are FREE first period and those who have free periods at the end of the day. Students may NOT be signed out for lunch (this includes post-Chapel Talk celebrations) unless they are accompanied by one of their parents and/or a legal guardian. Even in these special cases, the student is still responsible for returning in time for class.

In all circumstances, leaving campus is NOT permitted unless the student has permission from a member of the Office of Student Life or Head of Upper School. Failure to comply with these procedures will result in loss of driving privileges, early-morning detention, and/or other responses deemed appropriate by the Head of Upper School. In addition, academic restrictions will jeopardize a student’s opportunity to sign out.

Students with driving privileges who are in good academic and disciplinary standing may arrive late to school in the morning or leave school the last period of the day if they do not miss class. Both privileges are the responsibility of the parent or guardian, even if another student is driving. Early dismissal students who sign out in the Upper School Office are expected to leave campus. Early dismissal and late arrival students must sign in and out with the Upper School office when arriving late and before leaving school. Leaving school without proper authorization may result in disciplinary action.

Standards of Student Conduct & Student Responsibility

Fundamental Standards

At the heart of the Standards of Student Conduct for Webb School is a respect for and a keen awareness of the spiritual, social, emotional, psychological, and intellectual needs of each student, as well as the many interests and needs of the community in which each student must function. Standards of conduct are intended to provide the good order indispensable for the serious pursuit of academic excellence and the high moral tone expected at Webb. These standards are intended to assist students in understanding and achieving the delicate and necessary balance between freedom and restraint. As such, observance of these standards by the students will place demands on each student’s self-control, growth toward maturity, and character development. Essential to each student’s growth at Webb are a positive attitude, a spirit of cooperation, a commitment to learning and developing one’s gifts and talents, and an ability to admit and learn from one’s mistakes.

In accepting membership in the Webb School community, students:

• Accept the Honor Code and pledge to act on it

• Choose to tell the truth, do their own work, treat others decently and fairly, and take responsibility for their actions

• Strive to live up to the ideals of integrity, goodness, justice, and charity

• Accept the importance of showing respect for the property of others and the school’s reputation

• Commit to the value of learning for its own sake

• Learn to appreciate the privileges they enjoy and the significance of the heritage and traditions of Webb School

• Show support for and follow the rules and responsibilities as set forth in the Upper School Handbook.

Webb expects that each student will comply with the discipline that fosters the common good, adhere to high intellectual and moral standards, act with honor, and accept responsibility for his or her actions. Our strength as a community lies with our ability to work together and help each other develop as caring, responsible,

good human beings and scholars. Worthy and rewarding community life is achieved and sustained when all members of the community pursue the ideals of honor in their conduct, diligence in their work, and decency in their relationships.

Comments and/or actions, including on electronic platforms, that relate to race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, or gender expression, and aimed at another student that are objectively offensive, intentionally demeaning or degrading, or that cause a negative impact on a student's experience at Webb will not be tolerated.

Every student and employee should be treated with respect and dignity. Credible allegations of conduct in violation of this policy will result in an investigation at which time the facts and the circumstances surrounding the allegation will be reviewed. Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action by the school. The consequences may include one or more of the following: a verbal warning, a written reprimand, training, detention, suspension, or expulsion.

RACISM

No form of racist behavior will be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, verbal or written expressions, including on all social media platforms, in music, or through imagery. Any student who violates this code may be subject to consequences, including suspension and expulsion.

HARASSMENT

The use of words or images to harass individuals or groups based on gender, gender expressions, race, religion, sexual orientation, or any other aspect of identity is prohibited. Consequences of such action may result in suspension and expulsion.

Hazing & Sexual Harassment Policy

Webb School strictly prohibits (a) hazing, bullying, intimidation, or harassment generally (collectively, “hazing”) and (b) sexual harassment. These prohibited behaviors are uninvited, unwanted, and unwelcomed, and almost certainly create an environment that interferes with the overall learning process and makes the victim feel unsafe within our community.

a. Hazing is any conduct, whether intentional or reckless, physical or verbal (including, without limitation, communications made in person or online through any sort of electronic device or through any sort of digital or social media) that is objectively offensive and negatively impacts another person. This behavior can be based upon, but is not limited to, a person's race, gender, color, national origin, age, height, weight, marital status, disability, or social background. Specific examples of hazing may include: ganging up, goading stares, repeated name-calling, sexual references, destruction of personal property, hiding bookbags, invasion of personal spaces, jokes, tricks, pranks, or initiations. Mean-spirited acts toward others under the guise of “all in fun” will not be tolerated.

b. Sexual harassment is conduct more specifically directed at a person because of his/her sex or gender. It includes, but is not limited to, sexual advances or touching, requests for sexual acts or favors, inappropriate sexual remarks or humor, displaying sexually explicit material, or verbal or physical conduct of a harassing nature (including, without limitation, communications made in person or online through any sort of electronic device or through any sort of digital or social media). This inappropriate behavior can be between members of the same or opposite sex.

All students are encouraged to think before they speak or act and to put themselves in the other person’s place. If unsure as to whether the behavior is appropriate, one should simply not do it.

Any student who feels he/she has been subjected to or has witnessed hazing or sexual harassment is urged to report immediately to the Head of Upper School, a member of the Upper School administrative team, and/ or any faculty or staff member. Any student and any member of the Webb community (including, without limitation, administrators, faculty, staff, or volunteers) must report to the Head of Upper School any communications, including electronic communications, containing a credible threat to cause bodily injury or death.

Any such reports will be investigated as soon as possible and any offending person will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

Webb does not tolerate retaliation of any kind for reporting an incident or reasonable suspicion of hazing or sexual harassment, including threats of harm, and any person who retaliates will also be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

Personal Property

While the campus is very safe and personal property is generally secure, there have been occasional instances of theft in public spaces on campus. The problems have usually involved students bringing too much cash or expensive electronics to school and leaving them in the hall in gym bags or backpacks. Please help the community by following these guidelines:

• If you must carry cash, do not carry much. We recommend that students carry no more than $20. If you must carry cash, keep it in your pocket or in a locked locker, not in a backpack or gym bag.

• All personal items should be prominently and permanently labeled.

Webb reserves the right to search student automobiles, lockers, backpacks, and electronic devices (cell phones, smartphones, tablets, laptops, computers, etc.) for any unauthorized items or actions considered harmful to oneself or the school. A student’s refusal to cooperate is grounds for dismissal.

Weapons

Firearms, explosives (or other incendiary devices), and knives of any kind (including pen knives), are prohibited. Due to their appearance and the potential for vandalism, paintball guns, airsoft guns, and other similar weapons are prohibited as well. This policy is in effect for the entire campus, including parking lots. Possession of a weapon on campus is a serious disciplinary offense that could lead to suspension or expulsion.

General Prohibitions

Webb prefers to minimize prohibitions. Instead, we believe that students will understand and abide by the spirit of the rules and regulations of the school. Still, students should be aware of the following list of prohibitions. These offenses may result in an appearance before school officials as well as a significant punishment.

• Any symbol, flag, or emblem which violates the spirit of school policy will not be allowed on campus.

• Personal appearance must be neat and conform to community standards at all times. The appropriate school official will arbitrate any questionable appearance.

• Secret organizations are considered undesirable at Webb School and are prohibited. Such organizations would only disrupt the community atmosphere of the school. Organizations sanctioned by Webb may not engage in initiations or activities that are judged to be demeaning, disruptive, or dangerous.

• Individual and/or group commercial/selling ventures are prohibited.

• Students may not contract significant debt with fellow students. They may not loan or borrow credit cards of any type.

• Students may not sell their personal property without their parents’ permission.

• Students must be responsible for securing their property.

• Students should not have significant amounts of cash in their possession.

• Gambling is prohibited.

• Profanity and vulgarities are not permitted.

• Skateboards, longboards, scooters, inline skates, and other similar methods of transportation are prohibited on campus.

• Students may not record audio or video, take, or use still photos of another person without explicit permission having been given by the individual person being recorded or photographed.

Technology Prohibitions

Technology offers vast opportunities for learning and communication but also numerous pitfalls of potential misuse. Below are some prohibitions regarding computer and technology use. Students should realize that this list is not exhaustive; they must use common sense and good judgment when using technology.

As with the general prohibitions described in this section, engaging in the following prohibitions will result in an appearance before the appropriate school administrator as well as significant punishment, including the possibility of expulsion depending on the nature of the infraction.

• Inappropriate use of social media is prohibited. Students must know that they are accountable for any words, pictures, or video they post to social media accounts or sites.

• Students may not post videos (without permission from a school administrator) that include inappropriate activity, content or language.

• Students may not attempt to bypass, remove, subvert, or avoid any of the security measures in place on Webb School's network.

• Students may not distribute information that could lead to the compromise of Webb’s computer system; they may not provide access to Webb’s network or computers to unauthorized users. Any person without a Webb user account is an unauthorized user.

• Students may not use programs that attempt to crash or otherwise damage computers or the network.

• Students may not attempt to access inappropriate material on the internet.

• Students may not possess, distribute, or view inappropriate material (e.g., racist, pornographic, etc.).

• Students may not install any software or other programs on Webb computers without the explicit permission of the technology staff.

• Students may not use another student’s account or permit another student to use their account.

Webb’s discipline system is not designed to be a long list of prohibitions, warnings, and punishments. Rather, it is designed to foster within students a sense of responsibility and respect for themselves and for those in the community around them.

Campus Behavior

Students are responsible for their behavior in the classroom and on campus; teachers are responsible for the total learning environment. Teachers establish and articulate ground rules within the classroom.

Building upon Webb’s mission and the fundamental standards, the goal for everyone’s behavior within the school community is to build positive relationships based on mutual respect, good manners, pride in oneself, and pride in the school.

Off-Campus Behavior

At times, inappropriate student behavior takes place away from campus and after school hours. When the behavior takes place at an off-campus, school-sponsored event, the school will respond with appropriate disciplinary action as outlined in the Handbook.

In other off-campus situations, the school will become involved only to the extent that the off-campus actions have repercussions that are felt at school. It is our goal to protect the overall health of our students and to preserve a suitable learning environment. If, in the school’s judgment, either is compromised by off-campus behavior, the school will become involved and will expect parents to partner with the administration in addressing the situation.

Lockers

Lockers are school property. They may be inspected at any time by a school official. Students are responsible for the care and maintenance of the lockers they choose and will be charged for damages. Students cannot take or borrow items from other lockers without the owner’s permission. The unauthorized use of another person’s property will be subject to disciplinary action.

Students may NOT change lockers without permission from the Upper School Office. In general, the outside of students’ lockers should be clean and clear of all notices and advertising.

Lost & Found

Students should put their names in/on all property to facilitate the returning of lost articles when they are found. Found items should be brought directly to faculty members, who will see that they are deposited in the

lost & found closet of the building in which the item was found. The school will determine lost & found closets at the beginning of the year. Lost & found closets are kept locked and may only be opened with a faculty member present. Unclaimed items will be donated to local charity.

Student

Activity Period (1st AP or 2nd AP)

Each day, activity periods are set aside for individual instruction, meetings, or study. Clubs or class meetings will be scheduled after approval has been secured.

Food, Parties & Deliveries

Food and drink are allowed in common areas and the cafeteria. Eating and drinking should not be done in the hallways. Please remember that each member of the school community is responsible for the cleanliness of our campus.

Because meals are included in students’ tuition, students are not allowed to have food delivered to them from off campus by anyone other than a parent. Students may NOT sign out for lunch (this includes post-Chapel Talk celebrations) unless they are accompanied by one of their parents and/or legal guardian. On special occasions such as club or advisory lunches, teachers are expected to order and receive all food deliveries.

Telephones

Telephones in school offices are available for student use with permission.

Cell Phones & Other Personal Communication Devices

All cell phone devices must remain in the off mode and placed at the front of each classroom at the beginning of an academic class. Cell phone use is not permitted in the Spartan Bistro during the lunch hour.

Use of Electronic Media in the Classroom

In order to support student honor and reduce needless distractions to the learning process, Webb does not permit the student use of electronic media in the classroom at any time, except the use of computers, calculators, and other media as directed/ permitted by the classroom teacher. All electronic media (which include, but are not limited to, cell phones, portable video game systems, and mp3 players) must be in the “off” position and stored out of sight. Consequences for the inappropriate use or placement of electronic media include

after-school detention, confiscation of the device, and a possible honor violation. The use of calculators and computers for learning purposes must be approved for classroom use by the individual teachers.

Computer Laptops

A student must keep his/her computer laptop in his/her locker, bookbag, or in his/her possession at all times. Any laptop not in a student’s locker, bookbag, or possession will be brought to the Upper School Office.

Webb School Bookstore

Textbooks, school supplies, art supplies, and gym clothing are sold at the school bookstore. Unless parents notify the school in advance that they object, purchases will be charged to the student’s school account.

Fundraising Activities

Occasionally, an advisory or other group may want to schedule fundraising activities to support worthwhile service projects. Any such activity considered by student groups must first be presented to the Upper School Head or Office of Student Life for approval.

It is strictly forbidden for a student to sell items at school or to solicit contributions to charitable organizations on campus without authorized permission.

Driving to School

Driving to school is a privilege that can be temporarily or permanently revoked if abused. Conditions under which parking permits are issued include:

• All student vehicles must be registered before students may park on campus.

• Permits will be issued to students 16 years of age or older who hold a valid driver’s license (not a learner’s permit) and be covered by insurance.

• Applications for permits may be picked up in the Upper School Office. There is a $100 nonrefundable registration fee.

• Receipt of the parking permit constitutes the acceptance of all the rules/policies pertaining to driving on campus. Parking applications are available online or in the Upper School Office.

• Each driver is assigned a parking space. Parking elsewhere results in a temporary loss of driving privileges and may result in disciplinary action. The office manager and a member from the Office of Student Life assigns parking places.

• Students may not lend parking tags or places.

The following regulations apply to student drivers on campus:

• Students may NOT visit or move vehicles during the school day without permission.

• Permission must be granted by a school administrator, not a teacher or staff member.

• Students may move vehicles from one lot to another after 3:50 p.m.

• Drivers will yield to all pedestrians and school buses.

• The speed limit on campus is 15 miles per hour.

• Unlicensed vehicles are forbidden.

Student drivers are expected to be in their first class on time. Frequent or excessive unexcused tardies may result in the loss of driving privileges. Students who break these rules or endanger the lives of others on campus will lose their driving privileges temporarily or permanently.

Students must park in their assigned spots during make-up, detention sessions, or in the morning before the start of class. Failure to do so will result in the loss of driving privileges..

Expected Sportsmanship for Webb Athletes & Fans

In an effort to provide all students with a variety of positive experiences, Webb offers a full athletic program, including interscholastic competition in a number of sports. Because participants in and supporters of the athletic program represent Webb School to the public, the following guidelines are presented:

Webb students, parents, and faculty will:

• Respect the authority and judgment of coaches, captains, and administrators in game settings;

• Appreciate the responsibilities of officials and show respect for and accept their decisions;

• Be respectful and polite to opponents before, during, and after the contests;

• Commend good play and good sportsmanship, whether displayed by a teammate or by an opponent in both victory and defeat, at home or away;

• Cheers are expected to be positively directed toward Webb teams and players rather than negatively directed toward our opponents or their fans;

• Respect the property of school participants at home or away, and treat all facilities with care;

• Conduct themselves in such a manner that they will bring credit to themselves, their team, and their school.

Lunch Decorum

General rules are:

• Those who eat and those who serve are members of our community. Our respect and civility are required at all times.

• Everyone must help keep all food bars clean and clear his or her own table by returning plates, trash, and utensils to the dish room. Anyone who fails to do so may be assigned lunchroom clean-up duty.

• No one can bring food or drink from outside into the cafeteria without permission. If a student requires a special diet by the request of a physician or for any religious reason, the cafeteria staff will prepare that meal for the student. The kitchen is restricted to cafeteria staff. Dishes, utensils, and other cafeteria supplies must remain in the cafeteria.

Upper School Dress Code

Philosophy

The Upper School Dress Code represents a visible link with traditions of the school that have contributed to its becoming the excellent institution it is today. Here, as in society at large, dress codes exist in forms that are appropriate to their environments. At a basic level, our dress code provides structure for our academic endeavors and minimizes the peer pressure and stress so often connected with attire issues. Our dress code does not presume to deprive any student of his or her individuality or personality; the way in which we dress symbolizes our unity of purpose and the equality of our educational opportunity within this community. While ongoing efforts are made to allow students to feel more comfortable, convenience and preference are not the only factors governing the school’s dress code; our dress represents more than just “wearing apparel.”

The guidelines to remember with regard to the dress code and personal appearance are the appropriateness for a grade 9-12 environment and reasonable standards of decency. One’s appearance and dress reflect both oneself and one’s community. Webb sets some standards for personal appearance, grooming, and dress because we want students to distinguish between the special nature of the school environment and other more casual settings. Just as teachers require a standard for written and spoken English at school that may be different from the social and relaxed conversations that students enjoy with friends, Webb requires standards for personal appearance and dress that honor our academic environment.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

1. A student’s dress should always be clean, neat, presentable, and appropriate for our school’s standards of decency and in keeping with its traditions. School clothes must be properly fitted and in good repair. Ripped, frayed, or torn clothing is not permitted.

2. Class attendance is a privilege that is dependent upon being in proper uniform. Students who are dressed inappropriately may not be admitted to class.

3. All students should be in uniform when they arrive on campus.

Upper School Dress Code 2022-2023

Shirts, skirts, and kilts must be purchased from Lands' End, Tommy Hilfiger, My Aplus Uniforms (formerly Educational Outfitters), or the Webb School Wearhouse.

BOYS

Khaki or Navy Pants – Pants may be purchased from the vendor of your choice but must be similar in color and style to the traditional khaki or navy items offered by My Aplus Uniforms, Lands’ End, or Tommy Hilfiger. No tapered or blue jean-like pants. No rolling of pant legs.

Shirts – Long or short-sleeved white or blue oxford with a Webb logo above the pocket. Shirts may be purchased from My Aplus Uniforms, Lands’ End, or Tommy Hilfiger.

Ties – Boys must wear a long tie or bow tie with the dress shirt. All boys are required to purchase one school tie to wear on designated school days. This tie may be purchased from the Webb School Bookstore. Also, seniors may purchase a “senior tie” from the Webb School Bookstore.

Socks – Solid-colored socks must be worn with shoes and be visible. Short or crew socks in white, black, gray, or navy will be allowed with uniform shoes.

Belts – Belts are mandatory with pants. Webb logo, plain brown or black leather belts are allowed.

GIRLS

Khaki or Navy Pants – Pants may be purchased from the vendor of your choice but must be similar in color and style to the traditional khaki or navy items offered by My Aplus Uniforms, Lands’ End, or Tommy Hilfiger. No tapered or blue jean-like pants

Skirts – Skirts in khaki, navy, or the Webb plaid must be of appropriate length at the discretion of Webb School. Purchases may be made from My Aplus Uniforms, Lands’ End, or Tommy Hilfiger.

Blouses – Blouses must be buttoned to the top of the pocket. Blouses must be white or blue with the Webb logo above the pocket. Blouses may be purchased from My Aplus Uniforms, Lands’ End, or Tommy Hilfiger.

Socks – Socks or tights must be worn with shoes and be visible. Black or navy knee-high socks may be worn. Short or crew socks in white, black, gray, or navy will be allowed with uniform shoes. Solid, opaque tights or leggings may be worn in navy or black only. Leggings must extend to the ankle and be worn with socks. Socks must extend over the leggings. No patterns allowed on any socks, tights, or leggings.

Belts – Belts are mandatory with pants. Webb logo belt, plain brown or black leather belts are allowed.

SHOES – BOYS & GIRLS

Sperry Topsiders – Boat shoes in leather and in black, brown, sand, gray, or taupe (no slip-ons)

Clark Wallabees – Beeswax, black, brown oily, sand suede, or taupe distressed

Merrell Jungle – Taupe, brown, or black (no slides allowed)

Hey Dudes, Uggs, Doc Martens are NOT allowed. Loafers – Black or brown (penny or tasseled)

Dress Shoes with Laces – Black or brown. MUST be approved by a member of the school’s administrative team (no heels allowed).

No moccasins, slippers, or boots allowed. No platform shoes of any kind are permitted. No cowboy boots or any other type of boot are allowed at any time, with the exception of the following, specific allowance:

WET WEATHER ONLY – Students may choose to wear “duck style” or rain boots in place of regular school day shoes.

Importantly, allowances can be made for medical necessity. Students will need written documentation provided by an orthopedist or podiatrist if allowances are to be made. In many cases, the Merrell brand has

been approved as an alternative to tennis shoes. Tennis shoes are not permitted without medical documentation on file in the Upper School Office.

SWEATERS & JACKETS

Sweater or Sweater Vest – Solid-colored, classic style V-neck or cardigan sweaters (similar in color and style offered by My Aplus Uniforms, Lands’ End, or Tommy Hilfiger) in navy, green, or gray may be worn.

Jackets – Solid-colored lightweight jackets or fleece may be worn.

SWEATSHIRTS

Only Webb School sweatshirts are permitted to be worn during the school day. Exceptions for seniors will be announced by the Upper School Office. Webb sweatshirts, hooded and non-hooded, may be purchased from the Webb Bookstore or provided by Webb coaches, teachers, or other Webb team leaders. If a student wears a sweatshirt during the school day, the school shirt must be visible. If required to wear a tie, it must be visible. Importantly, hoodies are not permitted in the classroom during the academic day.

GUIDELINES FOR ALL STUDENTS

• All clothing must be appropriately sized, worn professionally, and in good repair. (e.g., hems of pants should not be frayed or torn, ties should be worn at the appropriate place in the collar, longsleeved shirts are made to be buttoned at the cuff or sleeves rolled up, shoes should not be worn as slip-ons, shoes with laces should be tied.) Hats and any other form of head covering (religious exemptions allowed), and sunglasses may not be worn in the school buildings at any time.

• Cargo, corduroy, blue jean-style, skinny-leg, or tapered pants are not allowed.

• T-shirts or camisoles may be worn under collared shirts, must be white, and have no visible lettering or decorative trim. Undershirts may not extend below or above the uniform shirt.

• Short-sleeved shirts may not be worn with a long-sleeved T-shirt underneath. All oxford shirts must be tucked in.

• Allowances will be made for special articles of clothing relevant to a specific religious tradition or medical necessity. Parents should contact the Office of Student Life for clarification.

• Students are to remain in uniform until the end of the school day OR until they leave campus.

HAIR

Webb School expects each student to avoid extremes of hair lengths, colors, or styles, including but not limited to, Mohawk and spiked hair. More specifically, hair must be a natural color; this includes the tips of hair.

Webb School does not permit students to have body piercings in the nose or other parts of the body that are visible and conspicuous. Nose rings, plugs, tunnels, gauges, stretches, septum rings, tongue rings/studs, eyebrow rings, lip/cheek rings, and belly button rings are not permitted to be visible during the school day, nor are they permitted when a student is representing Webb School as a participant in a school-sponsored event/conference.

TATTOOS

Students with permanent and/or temporary tattoos are not allowed to have either visible during the academic day.

The Office of Student Life must approve any and all exceptions to the dress code. Alternative clothing (including athletic footwear) will only be permitted with medical documentation from a physician. Medical documentation must be resubmitted each school year.

Non-Uniform Dress Code Expectations

The Upper School requires students to attend school on non-uniform dress code days properly attired in clothes that are neat, clean, and in good repair. We ask that parents partner with the school to guide students in making sound and reasonable choices about what to wear to school. Common sense and discretion should dictate student choice of school clothes. When a student is in doubt about whether a particular outfit or piece of clothing is acceptable, it is the student’s responsibility to get an opinion from the Office of Student Life before wearing it. If clothing is offensive, the student will be asked to change.

NON-UNIFORM DAY DRESS CODE GUIDELINES

• All clothing should be neat, clean and in good repair. Rips, tears, and tattered items or items with holes are considered out of dress code.

• Clothing displaying offensive logos, labels, and phrases; or suggesting sex, alcohol, or drugs; or containing political statements is strictly off limits.

• Necklines should be no lower than an imaginary line between the tops of the armpits.

• Tank tops and dresses are only allowed if the straps are at least three fingers wide. Spaghetti straps and halter tops are not permitted.

• Sheer clothing and exposed midsections (front, back, or side) are unacceptable.

• All dresses and skirts must be at least to fingertip length. Shorts must be at least to thumb length.

• Shoes must be worn at all times, both indoors and outdoors.

• Baseball hats, knit hats, or hoods on sweatshirts are not permitted to be worn indoors; religious head coverings are always permitted.

• On non-uniform days, students may wear ath-leisure to school, as defined by leggings, joggers, yoga pants, athletic shorts, or sweats.

Responses to Dress Code Violations

Conversation and warning, detention, suspension of privileges, confiscation or removal (e.g. hats) of improper clothing, suspension from school, and removal from class and activities, are all possible responses to dress code violations. Students may be removed from class and sent home immediately for repeated, prominent, or flagrant violations of the dress code.

Concluding Observations

The school recognizes that it cannot specify every rule for dress and personal appearance. As such, we expect students to adhere as much to the spirit of the dress code as they would to the letter of this code. Overall, Webb does not want issues relative to personal appearance and dress to distract students from the academic enterprise or in any way diminish the intellectual life or subvert the core values that we are trying to foster in our community.

Serious Disciplinary Offenses & Student Discipline

The school reserves the right, in its discretion, to interpret and enforce all disciplinary rules and guidelines set forth in this handbook.

Drug & Alcohol Policy

CHEMICAL SUBSTANCES CONTROLLED BY LAW

Throughout Webb’s history, one of its foremost charges has been to instill the highest spirit of character and integrity in each student. Webb recognizes that controlled substances (see DEFINITIONS below) represent severe detriments to our students contributing their best in the classroom, on the athletic fields, in extracurricular or co-curricular activities, and, most importantly, as leaders in our community. For these reasons, Webb will not tolerate the use, possession, involvement with, or distribution of controlled substances by members of our student body. Such actions by a Webb student may be grounds for an immediate dismissal from Webb.

PARENT EXPECTATIONS

While the administration accepts overall responsibility for implementing controlled substances education here on campus, Webb holds both the parents and students responsible for familiarizing themselves with the school’s alcohol and drug policies and cooperating in their implementation.

DEFINITIONS

Certain definitions have been specifically outlined below:

• Controlled substances shall include any and all harmful, dangerous, or intoxicating drugs or substances subject to regulation under federal or state law, and specifically will include those defined in the Tennessee State and Knox County Law Codes, including tobacco.

• Alcoholic beverage means and includes all alcohol, distilled spirits, beer, malt beverage, wine, or fortified wine, or any beverage requiring I.D. confirming age 21.

• Drug-related object means any instrument, device, or object which is designed or marketed as useful primarily for injecting, ingesting (whole or otherwise), or introducing a controlled substance into the human body, enhancing the effect of a controlled substance on the human body, testing the strength, effectiveness, or purity of a controlled substance, processing or preparing any quantity of a controlled substance, or holding a controlled substance while it is being introduced into the human body.

• Under the jurisdiction of the school means that a student shall be subject to punishment for a violation of the regulations involving drugs and alcohol at any time while enrolled as a student of Webb School.

• On campus means the use or possession of alcohol or illegal drugs on school property OR at a school-related event or trip off campus OR use of alcohol or illegal drugs prior to coming onto school property or to a school-related event off campus.

• Off campus means the use or possession of alcohol or illegal drugs off school property at an event unrelated to Webb.

• Right to search: Webb is committed to ensuring that our campus is drug and alcohol free. To accomplish that goal, the school administration maintains the right to search any student, his/her locker, and his/her personal belongings for the presence of controlled substances. If a student is suspected of being under the influence of controlled substances on campus or suspected of distributing drugs or alcohol to Webb students, the student may be required to submit to a hair follicle or urine test. Such chemical testing may be conducted either on campus or at an appropriate medical facility off campus. As a matter of responsibility, Webb reserves the right to submit students suspected of being under the influence of controlled substances at a school-sponsored event to a breathalyzer.

Voluntary disclosure: While a student is subject to the discipline process any time Webb becomes aware of specific conduct that violates the school's controlled substances policy, help is available for students who struggle with substance abuse. Accordingly, students and/or families who approach school counselors, administrators, or faculty members, seeking general help without reference to a specific incident or event, will be referred to appropriate health-care professionals without discipline proceedings being commenced against the student.

Smoking, Vaping, Tobacco & Delta 8 Products

Smoking, vaping, or the use of smokeless tobacco and/or Delta 8 products by students is strictly forbidden both on campus and off campus during school-sponsored events. Smoking, vaping, and the use of tobacco and/or Delta 8 products in any manner on campus or off campus at school-sponsored events are considered serious discipline matters that will result in a minimum of an out-of-school suspension and may result in dismissal.

In addition, possession of smoking paraphernalia, including but not limited to, vaping devices of any kind, is strictly forbidden both on campus and off campus at school-sponsored events. Possession of smoking paraphernalia, including but not limited to, vaping devices of any kind, on or off campus at school-sponsored events, will result in a minimum of an out-of-school suspension and may result in dismissal.

Dangerous Weapons

Possession and use of dangerous weapons, including but not limited to, firearms, slingshots, knives, fireworks, or any other explosive device, are strictly forbidden. Offenses are likely to result in immediate expulsion.

Bomb Threats

Bomb threats made to the school disrupt the work of the school and represent a serious threat to the safety of the Webb community. Punishment will result in expulsion.

Willful Destruction or Defacement of School Property

Willful destruction or defacement of school property is forbidden. The administration will determine punishment from among the following:

• Paying for repair or replacement (including $20 per hour labor fee)

• Repairing or cleaning the destroyed or defaced property

• Performing an appropriate number of hours of compensatory service to the school community

Flagrant violations will result in suspension or expulsion.

Parents & Guests (Inappropriate Behavior)

Parents are an important part of the Webb community and are welcome to participate appropriately in school activities and functions.

As noted in the overview, all members of the community are expected to share the purpose, philosophy, and mission of the school, and to act individually to support the school’s goals. Inappropriate behavior by parents or guests of a student may result in disciplinary action against the student, including the discipline alternatives set forth in the following pages and in the admissions contract.

Guests other than the student’s immediate family must be pre-approved by the student’s parent and the Upper School Office before coming to campus. Guests must also sign in and out in the Upper School Office at the beginning and end of the school day.

Student Conduct Off Campus

Webb School of Knoxville expects each student to behave appropriately at all times. Webb encourages each student to observe:

• Personal honor and integrity

• Courtesy

• Respect for the rights and feelings of other people

• All local, state, and national laws

The school recognizes that it cannot be responsible for all aspects of the personal lives of students and families when away from campus. Each Webb student must be mindful that his/her behavior is a reflection on the entire school community. When off-campus conduct reflects poorly on or causes damage to the mission of the school or threatens the safety or well-being of Webb students, students involved in such behavior are always liable for such conduct. Specifically:

• Honor violations

• Abusive conduct toward any persons

• Damage to property

• Legal action against a student

• Breaking of Webb rules

Such actions will be dealt with by the school administration and/or the Honor Committee. These off-campus violations may be grounds for an immediate dismissal from Webb.

Disciplinary Alternatives

DETENTION

Students issued a detention must serve the detention within one of the two next available detention periods. Below are the detention days and times.

Morning Detention

Afternoon Detention

7:25 a.m. - 8:10 a.m. 3:45 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Monday, Wednesday, Thursday

SATURDAY SCHOOL, 8:00 A.M. - 11:00 A.M.

The Office of Student Life may assign Saturday School to students after consulting with the Head of Upper School. Students will be required to do work which will include, but not be limited to, cleaning buildings, landscaping, trash pick-up, etc. Students should also bring study materials with them.

In case of sickness, arrangements must be made with the Office of Student Life to attend the next scheduled Saturday School. If students miss Saturday School due to other circumstances, they must make up the absence by attending the following two Saturday Schools or some other disciplinary alternatives. If the student does not fulfill this requirement, a recommendation of suspension will be made to the Head of Upper School. The Office of Student Life approves any exception to this policy.

IN-SCHOOL RESTRICTION (DISCIPLINARY OFFENSES)

In-School Restriction is a serious response to student disciplinary offenses; this option may be recommended by the Honor Committee or used by the school administration.

In-School Restriction requires a student to be present on campus from 8:00 a.m. until 3:35 p.m. each day of the restriction. During the academic day, a student studies and works in isolation with the exception of attending Chapel. A student on restriction is not allowed to attend or participate in after-school sports or activities, nor allowed to attend Webb School events the day of the In-School Restriction. Any exceptions must be approved by the Head of Upper School.

SUSPENSION

Suspension from classes is the most serious punishment, short of expulsion, that the school can assign. Students face the possibility of suspension if they commit serious offenses (e.g., fighting, using drugs or alcohol, or violating the Honor Code) or if they repeatedly or flagrantly violate school rules.

Out-of-School Suspension forbids suspended students from coming on campus to attend classes or school functions. Parents or guardians are entirely responsible for students for the duration of the suspension.

As part of the college admissions process, some schools request information concerning an Out-of-School Suspension a student may have received during high school. If asked, our college counselors will respond honestly, and, if the student is asked, Webb expects him or her to do the same. The counselors will help any student who has had an Out-of-School Suspension to formulate a written response so that the college or university will understand the context within which the suspension was given. Students must provide a final draft of the statement to a college counselor so that the counselor is aware of what college admission officers will be reading. The exception to this policy involves members of the freshman class.

PROBATIONARY STATUS

Probation is assigned to students when they have been suspended or are found to be in serious trouble. If the misbehavior is repeated, students on probation may face longer suspension or expulsion.

SERIOUS OFFENSES/EXPULSION

Serious offenses fall under the normal disciplinary process. Therefore, the school administration may respond to serious student offenses in a manner which

includes expulsion. Reasons for expulsion include, but are not limited to, honor offenses, endangerment to self or others, injury to self or others, criminal activity, association with criminal activity, distribution or possession for resale of an illegal substance, or a pattern of misbehavior. The Head of Upper School recommends students for expulsion to the school’s President who then makes a final decision.

Further, students may be dismissed from Webb if their behavior exhibits incompatibility with the educational goals, fundamental standards, and mission of the school. Incompatibility may be defined as flagrant, routine, or consistent defiance of the basic routine of the school, which includes, but is not limited to, repeated classroom absences, repeated failure to submit classroom assignments, missing assigned disciplinary responsibilities, and/or repeated antagonistic or uncooperative behavior.

DISCRETIONARY DISMISSAL

Notwithstanding the normal procedures for discipline set forth in this handbook, Webb reserves in its discretion the right to dismiss a student at any time. In accordance with the school’s enrollment contract, tuition and all fees remain in effect if a student is dismissed.

Student Activities

CLUBS/ORGANIZATIONS

Opportunities for involvement include those which promote service, recreation, exploration, and intellectual thought.

PIERIAN

Pierian is the Upper School literary/visual arts magazine, which showcases the creative writing and art of Webb students.

PRINCEPS

Princeps, the Webb yearbook, is published, directed, and managed by the students under the yearbook teacher.

WEBBPRESS

WebbPress is the Upper School journalism offering, and is open to all interested students.

PERFORMING GROUPS

Performing arts activities, such as drama and musical programs, will often meet and perform during and after school hours.

Especially for Parents

Interpretation of Policies

The school reserves the right, in its discretion, to have the final interpretation and implementation of the rules, procedures, regulations, and policies set forth in this handbook, the school enrollment contract, and any other written or oral materials affecting Webb students.

Upper School Parents' Advisory Committee (PAC)

The Parents’ Advisory Committee (PAC) has functioned well within the Webb School community for many years. From within its role, several programs and events have evolved, creating what we now look upon as Webb traditions. Its organization consists of an executive committee and four grade-level committees.

PARENTS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE MISSION STATEMENT

The PAC shall facilitate parental involvement in the school; create healthy relationships among parents, teachers, and students; acquaint parents with one another; offer educational programs for the parent and child to focus on strengthening the family unit; and serve as a parent sounding board.

UPPER SCHOOL PAC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2022-2023

• Chair – Beth Pearson

• Chair-Elect – Amy Bibee

• Past Chair – Lee Ann Tolsma

• Secretary – Amy Jenkins

• Treasurer – Mary Newell

• Communications Coordinator – Tracey Belmont

UPPER SCHOOL GRADE-LEVEL COMMITTEES FOR 2022-2023

A coordinator and four others constitute a grade-level committee. These committees work closely with school officials and students to facilitate communication, social events, activities, programs, and seminars. Upper School grade-level representatives for 2022-2023 are as follows:

• 9th Grade – Katie Martin

• 10th Grade – Ameeta Lall

• 11th Grade – Cindy Wagner

• 12th Grade – Lee Ann Tolsma

Watch for information regarding PAC meetings, etc., on the school calendar, in parent email communications, the OneWebb page of the school’s website (webbschool.org/onewebb), and in the passwordprotected online parent portal of Webb’s website.

Webb School Parent Expectations

The Parents' Advisory Committee has published a statement of common principles to serve as a catalyst for discussions among parents. It presupposes a need for parents to have a consistent network of support for one another in parenting children in a time when the media influences and the pressures associated with peer acceptance are higher than ever before. Although no formal declaration of commitment to these principles is required, it is hoped that parents of all students will agree that they serve the common good of the Webb School community and will abide by them.

STATEMENT OF COMMON PRINCIPLES

Evidence indicates that the single most critical factor in the safe and sound development of our children is parental involvement and support, followed closely by community involvement and support. Webb School is a unique environment, drawing its population from a 90square-mile radius and a wide variety of cultural backgrounds. If we are to have a sense of community here, we must commit to work hard for it. Commonality, shared values, and family networking, as well as true respect and appreciation of our differences, will be our reward. Our agreement to a statement of common principles is a way to begin that process.

1. We are concerned about the welfare and development of the children in our family, our school, and our community. We recognize that they are children, not always able to make the best choices, and they require effective parental as well as educational guidance. We reaffirm that our role as parents is to set standards for our children.

2. We acknowledge the value of knowing our children’s friends and their parents, thereby providing our children and ourselves a sense of community and security.

3. We will be assertive about calling other parents to verify plans and communicate any guidelines for our own children when there are activities where our children will be in the care or supervision of others. We will welcome calls when other children are our responsibility. We acknowledge a responsibility to contact parents when we are aware of noncompliance with these standards of behavior.

4. We accept the responsibility to teach our children about the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs, and to discourage the adolescent “rite of passage” that includes the use of illegal substances. We acknowledge that our own behavior sets an example for our children.

5. We will neither serve alcohol and other drugs or harmful substances to children, nor condone their use by the children of others who are under our supervision or in our care.

6. We want to know if our children are engaged in activities with illegal substances or any other serious, illegal acts. While this information may be disturbing and uncomfortable to hear, we will treat this as an expression of care and concern for our children and our community.

Prescription & NonPrescription Policy

Students who must take prescription medications during the school day must keep their medications in the Upper School Office and/or with the school nurse.

Accident Insurance

Each student is insured for accidents by a full access policy, including high school sports. This insurance policy will pay parent liability only after the family medical insurance plan has paid its share. In the event of an accident involving any student, an accident report form must be completed and turned into the Webb Business Office immediately. Written notice of an injury must be reported to our carrier by the school within 30 days. The coverage is in effect while the student is on school grounds, traveling to and from school, or off campus while on a school-sponsored activity with adult supervision provided by the school. For more information, please call the Business Office.

House Council Governance

HOUSE COUNCIL ADVISORS

• Stephanie Spurlock

• Aaron Teffeteller

• Kandace Bowen

2022-2023 HOUSE COUNCIL EXECUTIVE BOARD

• President: Charles Robinson ’23

• Vice-President: Youseph Ali ’23

• Secretary-Treasurer: Carly Galbreth ’23

2022-2023 HOUSE PREFECTS

• Dossett: Alex Middlecoff ’24, Jay Nathan ’23

• Haslam: Cooper Cameron ’24, Saroja Ramchandren ’23

• Henslee: Meg Atkins ’24, Abby Beaty ’23

• Hudson: Evan Lyke ’24, Seth Nagle ’23

• Pfeifer: Eliza Roberts ’24, Rose Beall ’23

• Sawney: Eli Vickers ’24, Agni Lolis ’23

Constitution of the Webb Upper School House Council

PREAMBLE

The students, faculty and administration hereby establish the Upper School House Council. The Council shall be the means by whereby students share in the government of the school. The conditions herein stated are those which all persons affiliated with the school recognize as the privileges, rights and responsibilities of the students.

ARTICLE I: NAME

The name of this organization shall be the Upper School House Council of Webb School of Knoxville (House Council).

ARTICLE II: PURPOSE

The purpose of this organization shall be to inspire high morale in the student body by fostering a close working relationship between students and faculty, maintaining a high standard of conduct of the student body as it affects the operation and reputation of the school, and promoting organized and diverse areas of extracurricular activities through student-sponsored clubs and committees. Should a situation arise when school policy and/or philosophy is in conflict with the specific language of this Constitution, the policy and greater aim of the school shall take precedence.

ARTICLE III: THE STUDENT BODY

Section 1. All students in grades 9 through 12 of Webb School of Knoxville shall be voting members of the Upper School House Council.

Section 2. Members will ratify the Constitution and any amendments by electronic ballot.

Section 3. Voting members will elect the president, vice president and secretary who will constitute the Executive Board of the Upper School Student Council. Seniors will not vote in elections for the following year.

Section 4. All members of the student body will be assigned to a House as a new student at Webb, beginning in the sixth grade or thereafter.

ARTICLE IV: OFFICERS

Section 1. The officers of the House Council (known as the Executive Board) shall be:

The President

1. Is elected head of the House Council.

2. Calls meetings of the House Council and shall preside over such meetings.

3. Represents the House Council.

4. Serves as the point of contact for House prefects.

The Vice President

1. Assumes the duties of the President in the event of absence.

2. Makes monthly communications to the student body, including social media communications.

The Secretary

1. Sees that an agenda is distributed to House Council members before each meeting.

2. Keeps minutes of House Council and student body meetings (these minutes are to be distributed).

3. Takes roll at House Council meetings.

4. Reports House Council proceedings of general interest to the school publication – WebbPress.

Shared Responsibilities for Executive Board

1. Appointing committee members (each executive member will serve on a committee).

2. Keeping track of House Cup points.

Section 2. Nomination procedures and requirements shall be as follows:

NOTE: All House Council officers must not have received a suspension in the 12 months prior to their candidacy.

Officers – President, Vice President, Secretary

1. Candidates must be juniors in the year of election.

2. Candidates must not have been convicted of an honor offense in the year prior to or the year of their candidacy (pending student body approval).

3. Candidates must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 at the time of their candidacy. Weighted GPAs with all classes, including fine arts, shall be used in determining candidacy.

4. Petitions for these offices shall be distributed starting the last week of March.

5. Candidates must present a petition of 20 signatures from eligible voting members and one teacher signature supporting their candidacy to the Election Committee. Each student may sign only one candidate’s petition for each office.

6. Candidates must not have more than the equivalent of five school days of unexcused absences in the year of candidacy.

7. Candidates must be up to date on community service hours required by Webb’s Upper School.

Grade-Level Representatives

1. To be eligible to serve as a grade-level rep, candidates must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 at the time of candidacy, must not have been convicted of an honor offense in the year of candidacy, and must be up to date in service hour requirements.

Section 3. Election procedures shall be as follows:

1. Elections for the offices of President and Vice President should take place no later than one month after the distribution of petitions. The exact date will be set before petitions are distributed.

2. If no candidate receives a majority of the votes cast, then a runoff will occur between the top candidates.

3. Elections for Secretary should take place approximately one week after the elections for President and Vice President.

4. Elections for Grade-Level Representatives should take place before final exams.

Section 4. The terms of officers shall begin the day following the last day of school for graduating seniors and will continue for one year. In the short interval between elections and the seniors’ last day, the newlyelected House Council shall attend all Council meetings as non-voting members and act in matters pertaining to the following school year.

ARTICLE V: HOUSE COUNCIL

Section 1. The House Council shall be the legislative and executive agency of the House System.

Section 2. The functions of the House Council shall be:

1. To cooperate with the faculty in legislating matters regulating student life.

2. To make recommendations about matters outside of the House Council’s control.

3. To serve as a medium through which student opinion may be heard and acted upon.

4. To coordinate student activities.

Section 3. The voting members of the House Council shall be:

1. The Executive Board

2. Twenty-four Grade-Level Representatives; one from each grade in each House, 9-12

Section 4 . A faculty advisor appointed by the Head of the Upper School shall serve as a non-voting member of the Council and be present at all meetings.

Section 5. The faculty advisor(s) shall regulate House Council campaigns and elections.

Section 6. Any member of the House Council shall be allowed to present proposals to the House Council. These proposals must be presented to the House Council Secretary three days prior to a meeting in which they are to be discussed. After a discussion and affirmative vote of the Council, the proposal shall be presented to the Upper School Head.

Section 7. The meetings of the House Council shall be held at least twice a month unless otherwise announced.

1. Special meetings may be called by the Executive Board with the consent of the faculty advisor(s). Special meetings may also be called by the faculty advisor(s).

2. An agenda shall be distributed to the members of the House Council on the day prior to each meeting.

3. The Council shall not act without a quorum of ten members, with each elected class represented.

Section 8. The House Council may establish temporary committees to carry out the programs of the House Council.

ARTICLE VI: HOUSE PREFECTS

Section 1. Requirements

1. To be eligible to serve as a House Prefect, candidates must have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 at the time of candidacy, must not have been convicted of an honor offense in the year of candidacy, and must be up to date in service hour requirements.

2. One senior Prefect and one junior Prefect will be elected from each House.

Section 2. Elections

1. Will take place during the last House meeting of the year.

2. Faculty House advisors will lead House Prefect elections according to their individual House guidelines.

3. All members of the House – rising grades 7-11 –will vote for their House Prefects.

Section 3. Roles and Responsibilities

1. Work with faculty House leaders to plan and execute House meetings.

2. Lead their respective Houses in completing House Cup challenges.

3. Keep track of House points.

4. Communicate with House members on events, information, etc.

ARTICLE VII: REMOVAL FROM OFFICE

Section 1. Removal of a Council member or Prefect:

1. If a House Council member or Prefect shall be found guilty of an honor offense by the Upper School Honor Committee, he or she will automatically be removed from office.

2. Habitual disregard of rules or duties for which any House Council member or Prefect is responsible may be grounds for removal from office.

3. Repeated failure to attend meetings may be grounds for removal from office.

4. Gross misconduct that misrepresents the House Council may be grounds for removal from office.

ARTICLE VIII: SPECIAL ELECTIONS

Section 1. Filling any vacant position shall be left to the discretion of the faculty advisor, the remaining Executive Board members, and the Head of the Upper School.

ARTICLE IX: AMENDMENTS

Section 1. Amendments may be proposed by any member of the House Council. Proposed amendments must be approved by the Council and presented to the faculty before being presented to the student body for ratification.

Section 2. Proposed amendments to the Constitution shall be made available to the House Council (student body) one week prior to the time of voting.

Section 3. A majority of votes cast shall be necessary for the approval of amendments to the constitution.

Section 4. Any amendments successfully made to this constitution shall be announced to the student body.

ARTICLE X: RATIFICATION

This constitution shall become effective when passed by a three-fourths majority vote of the House Council.