It is the intent of the Shelby County Board to develop policies and put them
in writing so that they may serve as guidelines and goals for the successful
and efficient functioning of the Shelby County public schools.
The Board considers policy development its chief function, along with providing
the wherewithal such as personnel, buildings, materials, and equipment for the
successful administration, application, and execution of its policies.
The Board accepts the definition of policy set forth by the National School Boards Association:
Policies are principles adopted by the School Board to chart a course of action.
They tell what is wanted; they may include why and how much. Policies should
be broad enough to indicate a line of action to be followed by the administration
in meeting a number of problems; narrow enough to give clear guidance. Policies
are guides for action by the administration, who then sets the rules and regulations
to provide specific directions to school district personnel.
It is the Board's intention that its policies serve as sources of information
and guidance for all people who are interested in, or connected with, the Shelby
County public schools.
The policies of the Shelby County Board are framed, and are meant to be interpreted,
in terms of Tennessee laws, rules and regulations of the State Board of Education,
and all other regulatory agencies within our county, state, and federal levels
of government. The policies are also framed, and are meant to be interpreted,
in terms of those educational objectives, procedures, and practices which are
broadly accepted by leaders and authorities in the public education field.
Changes in needs, conditions, purposes, and objectives will require revisions,
deletions, and additions to the policies of present and future boards. The Board
will welcome suggestions for ongoing policy development.
At least annually, the Board will review its policy manual for the purpose of
passing, revising or deleting policies mandated by changing conditions.
