It's the little things... 💙
A big blue thank you to the Decatur County Retired Teachers for the sweet treats today! We truly appreciate your kindness and thoughtfulness. Thank you for thinking of the Decatur County Schools faculty and staff — your support means so much!
A big blue thank you to the Decatur County Retired Teachers for the sweet treats today! We truly appreciate your kindness and thoughtfulness. Thank you for thinking of the Decatur County Schools faculty and staff — your support means so much!
The Decatur County School System currently has limited PreK openings!
If you have a current 3 or 4-year-old and are interested in our PreK program, please get in touch with Mrs. Angela Inman, Pre-K Director, at angela.inman@decaturschools or 852-2391.
If you have a current 3 or 4-year-old and are interested in our PreK program, please get in touch with Mrs. Angela Inman, Pre-K Director, at angela.inman@decaturschools or 852-2391.
UPDATE:
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We hope everyone enjoyed a restful and fun-filled fall break! This is a reminder that Decatur County Schools will resume classes tomorrow, Monday, October 13, 2025.
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We also want to address the recent school threat that has been circulating in our county. At this time, the individual responsible is in custody. While there are no new updates to share, please be assured that the safety of our students and staff remains our school system’s top priority.
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We are working closely with our School Resource Officers (SROs), Decatur County Sheriff’s Department, Parsons Police Department, Tennessee Highway Patrol, and Homeland Security to maintain a secure environment across all campuses. We remain committed to transparency and will continue to provide updates should any new information related to school safety arise.
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Thank you for your continued support of the Decatur County School System,
Melinda J. Thompson
Director of Schools
Decatur County School System
To Our Parents, Students, and Community Members,
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The Decatur County School System was recently made aware of a potential threat involving one of our schools. I want to personally assure you that we take all threats seriously and are fully committed to ensuring the safety of our students, staff, and campuses.
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At this time, our knowledge and information regarding the situation is limited. However, we can confirm that the individual responsible for making the threat is currently in custody. We are continuing to work closely with law enforcement to monitor and assess the situation.
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We would like to express our sincere appreciation to local law enforcement agencies for their swift response. Their prompt action was instrumental in addressing the situation quickly.
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We will continue to keep our school community informed. As more details become available, we will share updates through the Decatur County School System’s official website and Facebook page.
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Thank you for your understanding, support, and continued partnership in keeping our schools safe.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Melinda Thompson
Director of Schools
Decatur County School System
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The Decatur County School System was recently made aware of a potential threat involving one of our schools. I want to personally assure you that we take all threats seriously and are fully committed to ensuring the safety of our students, staff, and campuses.
,
At this time, our knowledge and information regarding the situation is limited. However, we can confirm that the individual responsible for making the threat is currently in custody. We are continuing to work closely with law enforcement to monitor and assess the situation.
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We would like to express our sincere appreciation to local law enforcement agencies for their swift response. Their prompt action was instrumental in addressing the situation quickly.
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We will continue to keep our school community informed. As more details become available, we will share updates through the Decatur County School System’s official website and Facebook page.
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Thank you for your understanding, support, and continued partnership in keeping our schools safe.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Melinda Thompson
Director of Schools
Decatur County School System
A big thank you to Kolpak, a major employer with a large workforce from Decatur County and a true partner to our schools and community, for hosting an industry tour for Riverside High School students today!
Students had the chance to see real-world applications of their classroom learning, explore potential career paths, and gain firsthand insight into the opportunities available right here in our community. Experiences like this inspire the next generation and highlight the strong connection between our schools and local businesses.
We are grateful to Kolpak for their continued support of our students, schools, and community—investing in the future of Decatur County!
Students had the chance to see real-world applications of their classroom learning, explore potential career paths, and gain firsthand insight into the opportunities available right here in our community. Experiences like this inspire the next generation and highlight the strong connection between our schools and local businesses.
We are grateful to Kolpak for their continued support of our students, schools, and community—investing in the future of Decatur County!
RHS Breakfast and Lunch Menu for October
October Breakfast and Lunch Menu for DES, PES, & DCMS
🌟 We’re proud to celebrate two of our own, Mrs. Nancy Box and her grandson, Marshall! 🌟
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Both competed in the Racing So They Can Ride 5K in Jackson, supporting Rein-Bow Riding Academy, and each earned 1st place in their age divisions out of nearly 200 runners! 🏃♀️🏃♂️
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Mrs. Nancy is a long-time educator in the Decatur County School System, and Marshall is a 7th grade student at Decatur County Middle School. Sutton Box, also a DCMS student, has greatly benefited from the incredible services Rein-Bow provides. This organization offers free therapeutic horseback riding for individuals of all ages with disabilities, making this event especially meaningful for the family.
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👏 Congratulations to Mrs. Nancy and Marshall on this amazing accomplishment—and thank you to everyone who participated in supporting such a worthy cause!
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Both competed in the Racing So They Can Ride 5K in Jackson, supporting Rein-Bow Riding Academy, and each earned 1st place in their age divisions out of nearly 200 runners! 🏃♀️🏃♂️
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Mrs. Nancy is a long-time educator in the Decatur County School System, and Marshall is a 7th grade student at Decatur County Middle School. Sutton Box, also a DCMS student, has greatly benefited from the incredible services Rein-Bow provides. This organization offers free therapeutic horseback riding for individuals of all ages with disabilities, making this event especially meaningful for the family.
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👏 Congratulations to Mrs. Nancy and Marshall on this amazing accomplishment—and thank you to everyone who participated in supporting such a worthy cause!
Most jobs have a start and stop time… but not the job of an educator. 🌟
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At Riverside High School, our FFA teachers Richie Rhuel and Dustyn Watson go above and beyond their job descriptions every single day. From long hours of training and practicing, to driving students across the state for competitions and events—they are all in for their students.
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Their dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. Thanks to their leadership, our agriculture students aren’t just participating—they’re excelling! While they may not always be in the spotlight on Friday nights or in front of packed crowds, their hard work, discipline, and accomplishments are just as impressive. And, their team and individual wins are piling up!
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Agriculture education builds skills that last far beyond high school—leadership, responsibility, and a strong work ethic—and it’s because of teachers like Mr. Rhuel and Mr. Watson that our students are gaining these life-changing experiences.
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Congratulations to our incredible ag students, and a huge THANK YOU to Mr. Rhuel and Mr. Watson for your tireless commitment. You’re shaping futures—and we see you.
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At Riverside High School, our FFA teachers Richie Rhuel and Dustyn Watson go above and beyond their job descriptions every single day. From long hours of training and practicing, to driving students across the state for competitions and events—they are all in for their students.
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Their dedication doesn’t go unnoticed. Thanks to their leadership, our agriculture students aren’t just participating—they’re excelling! While they may not always be in the spotlight on Friday nights or in front of packed crowds, their hard work, discipline, and accomplishments are just as impressive. And, their team and individual wins are piling up!
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Agriculture education builds skills that last far beyond high school—leadership, responsibility, and a strong work ethic—and it’s because of teachers like Mr. Rhuel and Mr. Watson that our students are gaining these life-changing experiences.
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Congratulations to our incredible ag students, and a huge THANK YOU to Mr. Rhuel and Mr. Watson for your tireless commitment. You’re shaping futures—and we see you.
Now Hiring: RIVERSIDE HIGH SCHOOL CUSTODIAN
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Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
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Qualifications:
* High school diploma or GED
* Must be able to pass a TBI Fingerprint Background Check
* Submit a physical by a Licensed Physician
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The deadline for applying is Tueday, September 30, 2025
Now Hiring: DECATURVILLE ELEMENTARY ASSISTANT
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Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
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Qualifications:
* High school diploma or GED
* Must be 21 years old
* Must verify 2 years of college or pass the Parapro Assessment
* Must be able to pass a TBI Fingerprint Background Check
* Submit a physical by a Licensed Physician
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The deadline for applying is Friday, September 26, 2025
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Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online here: https://forms.gle/DTLJ8Jjqwupmq1te8
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Qualifications:
* High school diploma or GED
* Must be 21 years old
* Must verify 2 years of college or pass the Parapro Assessment
* Must be able to pass a TBI Fingerprint Background Check
* Submit a physical by a Licensed Physician
.
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The deadline for applying is Friday, September 26, 2025
INVITATION TO BIDDERS
Sealed bids will be received by the Decatur County Board of Education, Decaturville, Tennessee, until 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday October 1st, 2025. At this time, bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the office of the Director of Schools of Decatur County, Decaturville, Tennessee for the following items:
1-8 Channel NVR with 4TB Memory, 1-4 Channel NVR with 2 TB Memory, 1-16 Channel DVR with 8TB Memory, 1-8 Channel NVR (4K) with 2TB Memory, 2-16 Channel NVR with 8TB Memory. 9,500 ft. Wire, 400ft. Conduit/weather tight. & 200 J-hooks. All Cameras will have weather-proof junction boxes.
Cameras: 34-4mp Bullets, 6-4mp Bullets (Analog), 7-4mp Turrets, 2-5mp Turrets (Analog), 11-4mp Domes
Completion date December 31, 2025
Interested bidders will need to contact Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor, to do an onsite inspection of the project.
Bids shall be presented in sealed envelopes, plainly marked on the outside with bid to Camera Project, name of person or firm submitting bid, and including all appropriate license and insurance. Bids will be received only from responsible firms or persons capable of filling same.
The board has committed to award bid to the low bidder.
The owner reserves the express right to accept any bid or reject any and/or all bids and to waive any informalities therein.
For additional information, please contact:
Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor
Decatur County Board of Education P.O. Box 369
Decaturville, Tennessee 38329
Phone: 731-733-1168
Email:keith.dickson@decaturschools.org
Sealed bids will be received by the Decatur County Board of Education, Decaturville, Tennessee, until 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday October 1st, 2025. At this time, bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the office of the Director of Schools of Decatur County, Decaturville, Tennessee for the following items:
1-8 Channel NVR with 4TB Memory, 1-4 Channel NVR with 2 TB Memory, 1-16 Channel DVR with 8TB Memory, 1-8 Channel NVR (4K) with 2TB Memory, 2-16 Channel NVR with 8TB Memory. 9,500 ft. Wire, 400ft. Conduit/weather tight. & 200 J-hooks. All Cameras will have weather-proof junction boxes.
Cameras: 34-4mp Bullets, 6-4mp Bullets (Analog), 7-4mp Turrets, 2-5mp Turrets (Analog), 11-4mp Domes
Completion date December 31, 2025
Interested bidders will need to contact Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor, to do an onsite inspection of the project.
Bids shall be presented in sealed envelopes, plainly marked on the outside with bid to Camera Project, name of person or firm submitting bid, and including all appropriate license and insurance. Bids will be received only from responsible firms or persons capable of filling same.
The board has committed to award bid to the low bidder.
The owner reserves the express right to accept any bid or reject any and/or all bids and to waive any informalities therein.
For additional information, please contact:
Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor
Decatur County Board of Education P.O. Box 369
Decaturville, Tennessee 38329
Phone: 731-733-1168
Email:keith.dickson@decaturschools.org
The Decatur County Board of Education will meet for the monthly meeting Thursday, September 11,2025, at the Decatur County Board of Education Conference Room at 6:15 p.m. with public input beginning at 6:00 p.m.
INVITATION TO BIDDERS
Sealed bids will be received by the Decatur County Board of Education, Decaturville, Tennessee, until 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday September 24th 2025. At this time, bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the office of the Director of Schools of Decatur County, Decaturville, Tennessee for the following items:
• Installation of 1,745 linear feet of chain link fence.
• 6’ tall black chain link 8 gage finish, (11 gage core).
• 40 weight commercial grade terminals, ends, and gates.
• 20 weight line posts and rails.
• (3) – 16’cantilever gates, (1) – 6’ walk gate, and (1) 12’ double swing gate.
• Removal of existing fence: 450’ of six feet fence along Readey St., and 235’ around
Pre-K playground.
• Hall away all old fencing materials.
• Completion date December 15, 2025
Interested bidders will need to contact Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor, to do an onsite inspection of the project.
Bids shall be presented in sealed envelopes, plainly marked on the outside with Pre-K Fence name of person or firm submitting bid and including all appropriate license and insurance. Bids will be received only from responsible firms or persons capable of filling same.
The board has committed to award bid to the low bidder.
The owner reserves the express right to accept any bid or reject any and/or all bids and to waive any informalities therein.
For additional information, please contact:
Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor
Decatur County Board of Education P.O. Box 369
Decaturville, Tennessee 38329
Phone: 731-733-1168
Sealed bids will be received by the Decatur County Board of Education, Decaturville, Tennessee, until 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday September 24th 2025. At this time, bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in the office of the Director of Schools of Decatur County, Decaturville, Tennessee for the following items:
• Installation of 1,745 linear feet of chain link fence.
• 6’ tall black chain link 8 gage finish, (11 gage core).
• 40 weight commercial grade terminals, ends, and gates.
• 20 weight line posts and rails.
• (3) – 16’cantilever gates, (1) – 6’ walk gate, and (1) 12’ double swing gate.
• Removal of existing fence: 450’ of six feet fence along Readey St., and 235’ around
Pre-K playground.
• Hall away all old fencing materials.
• Completion date December 15, 2025
Interested bidders will need to contact Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor, to do an onsite inspection of the project.
Bids shall be presented in sealed envelopes, plainly marked on the outside with Pre-K Fence name of person or firm submitting bid and including all appropriate license and insurance. Bids will be received only from responsible firms or persons capable of filling same.
The board has committed to award bid to the low bidder.
The owner reserves the express right to accept any bid or reject any and/or all bids and to waive any informalities therein.
For additional information, please contact:
Keith Dickson, Facilities Supervisor
Decatur County Board of Education P.O. Box 369
Decaturville, Tennessee 38329
Phone: 731-733-1168
The Decatur County School System is seeking applicants for a Business Education teacher for Grades 9-12 for the 2025-2026 school year.
Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online here: https://docs.google.com/.../1FAIpQLSdH12Vhs88SbP.../viewform
Applications should be sent to Hugh Smith, Human Resources Supervisor, Decatur County Board of Education, 59 West Main Street, P.O. Box 369, Decaturville, TN or emailed to hugh.smith@decaturschools.org.
Only applicants with a current Tennessee teacher license with an endorsement in
Business Education 6-12 endorsement (152) will be considered for the
position.
The deadline for applying is Friday, September 5, 2025.
September Breakfast and Lunch Menu RHS
September Breakfast and Lunch Menu PES/DES/DCMS
Decatur County Schools is accepting applications for Transition Case Manager/Family Resource Coordinator.
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Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online here: https://forms.gle/thAstGmBW2vAxWgS9
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The deadline for applying is Friday, September 5, 2025.
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For more information regarding the Transition Case Manager position, please contact Ms. Michelle McElrath, Supervisor of Special Education, at (731) 852-2391 or michelle.mccelrath@decaturschools.org.
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Transition Case Manager
Education and Experience: B.S./B.A. in education or a human service-related field . Two years of experience in teaching or services to individuals w/ disabilities
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Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Serve as the point person for the TSW grant.
2. Review goals and priorities as identified in the TSW grant agreement with LEA management and Transition specialist/supervisor.
3. Collect required documentation so that students can begin receiving one or more of the identified Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).
4. Coordinate with students and school personnel to reach pre-employment goals outlined in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) (once the student becomes an eligible customer for the Vocational Rehabilitation program).
5. Provide guidance to grant personnel on how to help students achieve employment goals and objectives.
6. Ensure that all student records are properly maintained, stored, and kept confidential at all times.
7. Lead the TSW team to select appropriate curricula for working with students. Implement appropriate curricula or demonstrate creativity in developing programs/training to assist grant personnel. Seek assistance from the VR Transition Specialist as needed.
8. Provide guidance to grant personnel on how to help students receive one or more of the five identified Pre-ETS, in order to make meaningful progress and/or achieve employment goals and objectives.
9. Schedule and attend events and training with the VR Transition Specialist, VR Counselor, and other TSW grant employees to further ensure student goals are met.
10. Notify the VR Transition Specialist/Supervisor of upcoming IEP meetings. Attend IEP Team Meetings to report student progress and to explain the process for referral to VR for IEP Team Members.
11. If the students within the LEA are receiving services from a Community Rehabilitation Provider (CRP), ensure that there is no duplication of services provided to the students.
12. Promptly address student, work site, and/or LEA complaints and work to resolve the problem. Seek guidance from the VR Transition Specialist/Supervisor as needed.
13. Assist students (and their families) in completing necessary documentation for postsecondary education applications and financial aid assistance.
14. Serve as a liaison to the disability services offices within institutions of higher education.
15. If the LEA has a Project SEARCH® site, assist the Project SEARCH® team by recommending and selecting students to complete the year-long internship. Make sure that the VR counselor has all of the necessary material to complete the VR eligibility process.
16. Maintain a high level of confidentiality and a professional demeanor, and represent both the LEA and Tennessee VR in a positive manner at all times.
17. Ensure all Pre-ETS monthly reporting is completed accurately on the forms provided and sent to designated personnel timely each month. Receive referrals from LEA personnel and inform the VR Transition Specialist/Supervisor of any new VR referrals.
18. Stay current on best practices, laws, and regulations related to transition services for students with disabilities. Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
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Family Resource Coordinator Job Duties:
1. Implementation of goals and objectives
2. Access to the services of agencies and resources within the community and surrounding area.
3. Presenting or coordinating programs/according to needs assessments.
4. Working with all age students, parents, and personnel, respecting racial, ethnic, and cultural diversities.
5. Maintaining a non-threatening approach to families, children, and anyone connected to the program, while encouraging those in need toward empowerment rather than dependency.
6. Working with professional service organizations and knowing their services.
7. Having collaborative skills with agency personnel from throughout the county and working in a professional manner, recognizing confidentiality.
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Applications may be picked up at the Board of Education Office and submitted to Hugh Smith at hugh.smith@decaturschools.org, or accessed and completed online here: https://forms.gle/thAstGmBW2vAxWgS9
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The deadline for applying is Friday, September 5, 2025.
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For more information regarding the Transition Case Manager position, please contact Ms. Michelle McElrath, Supervisor of Special Education, at (731) 852-2391 or michelle.mccelrath@decaturschools.org.
.
Transition Case Manager
Education and Experience: B.S./B.A. in education or a human service-related field . Two years of experience in teaching or services to individuals w/ disabilities
.
Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Serve as the point person for the TSW grant.
2. Review goals and priorities as identified in the TSW grant agreement with LEA management and Transition specialist/supervisor.
3. Collect required documentation so that students can begin receiving one or more of the identified Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).
4. Coordinate with students and school personnel to reach pre-employment goals outlined in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) (once the student becomes an eligible customer for the Vocational Rehabilitation program).
5. Provide guidance to grant personnel on how to help students achieve employment goals and objectives.
6. Ensure that all student records are properly maintained, stored, and kept confidential at all times.
7. Lead the TSW team to select appropriate curricula for working with students. Implement appropriate curricula or demonstrate creativity in developing programs/training to assist grant personnel. Seek assistance from the VR Transition Specialist as needed.
8. Provide guidance to grant personnel on how to help students receive one or more of the five identified Pre-ETS, in order to make meaningful progress and/or achieve employment goals and objectives.
9. Schedule and attend events and training with the VR Transition Specialist, VR Counselor, and other TSW grant employees to further ensure student goals are met.
10. Notify the VR Transition Specialist/Supervisor of upcoming IEP meetings. Attend IEP Team Meetings to report student progress and to explain the process for referral to VR for IEP Team Members.
11. If the students within the LEA are receiving services from a Community Rehabilitation Provider (CRP), ensure that there is no duplication of services provided to the students.
12. Promptly address student, work site, and/or LEA complaints and work to resolve the problem. Seek guidance from the VR Transition Specialist/Supervisor as needed.
13. Assist students (and their families) in completing necessary documentation for postsecondary education applications and financial aid assistance.
14. Serve as a liaison to the disability services offices within institutions of higher education.
15. If the LEA has a Project SEARCH® site, assist the Project SEARCH® team by recommending and selecting students to complete the year-long internship. Make sure that the VR counselor has all of the necessary material to complete the VR eligibility process.
16. Maintain a high level of confidentiality and a professional demeanor, and represent both the LEA and Tennessee VR in a positive manner at all times.
17. Ensure all Pre-ETS monthly reporting is completed accurately on the forms provided and sent to designated personnel timely each month. Receive referrals from LEA personnel and inform the VR Transition Specialist/Supervisor of any new VR referrals.
18. Stay current on best practices, laws, and regulations related to transition services for students with disabilities. Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
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Family Resource Coordinator Job Duties:
1. Implementation of goals and objectives
2. Access to the services of agencies and resources within the community and surrounding area.
3. Presenting or coordinating programs/according to needs assessments.
4. Working with all age students, parents, and personnel, respecting racial, ethnic, and cultural diversities.
5. Maintaining a non-threatening approach to families, children, and anyone connected to the program, while encouraging those in need toward empowerment rather than dependency.
6. Working with professional service organizations and knowing their services.
7. Having collaborative skills with agency personnel from throughout the county and working in a professional manner, recognizing confidentiality.
Did anyone get an invitation for Rooms via text or email? ACCEPT IT!!!
Please create an account for school communication and updates.
Please create an account for school communication and updates.
YOU NEED THIS APP!!! IT'S GREAT!
In your App Store, please download Decatur County Schools.
- Receive instant notifications. Receive instant notifications of new messages and announcements, even if you haven't downloaded the district app.
- Get one unified hub. All school and district communication, updates, and alerts are conveniently located in one single app and web experience, with one single login.
- Message staff in one click. Easily connect with teachers, coaches, counselors, and more, and see all of your messages in one inbox.
In your App Store, please download Decatur County Schools.
- Receive instant notifications. Receive instant notifications of new messages and announcements, even if you haven't downloaded the district app.
- Get one unified hub. All school and district communication, updates, and alerts are conveniently located in one single app and web experience, with one single login.
- Message staff in one click. Easily connect with teachers, coaches, counselors, and more, and see all of your messages in one inbox.
