Our students are back in the classroom, and that means it’s time for Board members to kick off the school year by participating in TSBA’s Fall District Meetings.
TSBA’s Fall District Meetings are held across the nine development districts and focus on legislative updates, legal issues, and current education “hot topics.” This year’s program provides school board members and superintendents an opportunity to discuss priorities for the 2026 legislative session as well as other important state developments.
In addition, the event recognizes school board members for their commitment to professional growth. TSBA presents Certified Board Member Awards and the Master Board Member Award to those who have invested their time and effort into becoming more informed and effective leaders. Recognition is based on participation in activities beyond local board responsibilities.
There are five levels of recognition:
Levels I through IV are acknowledged during the Fall District Meetings.
Level V (Master Board Member) is awarded at the annual TSBA Convention each November.
✨ We are proud to recognize the following Roane County Board of Education members for their accomplishments:
**Kristy Oran, Madam Chair, Board Member (Districts 5 & 6)– Level IV
**Jody Mioduski, Board Member (Districts 5 & 6) – Level I
**Robert Herrell, Board Member (District 5 & 6) – Level I
Congratulations to each of them for their dedication to professional growth and service to our students and community!
TSBA’s Fall District Meetings are held across the nine development districts and focus on legislative updates, legal issues, and current education “hot topics.” This year’s program provides school board members and superintendents an opportunity to discuss priorities for the 2026 legislative session as well as other important state developments.
In addition, the event recognizes school board members for their commitment to professional growth. TSBA presents Certified Board Member Awards and the Master Board Member Award to those who have invested their time and effort into becoming more informed and effective leaders. Recognition is based on participation in activities beyond local board responsibilities.
There are five levels of recognition:
Levels I through IV are acknowledged during the Fall District Meetings.
Level V (Master Board Member) is awarded at the annual TSBA Convention each November.
✨ We are proud to recognize the following Roane County Board of Education members for their accomplishments:
**Kristy Oran, Madam Chair, Board Member (Districts 5 & 6)– Level IV
**Jody Mioduski, Board Member (Districts 5 & 6) – Level I
**Robert Herrell, Board Member (District 5 & 6) – Level I
Congratulations to each of them for their dedication to professional growth and service to our students and community!
🌟 Tonight’s Recognitions at the Roane County Schools Board Meeting 🌟
👏 Roane County High School Softball Team finished their season with an outstanding 20–4 record and went undefeated in the district!
🍽️ Rockwood Middle School Cafeteria Staff shined on the national stage at the JTM Crave Contest, where students taste-tested recipes and voters across the nation participated. They proudly brought home the title of Best in Show!
🙌 A special thanks to our Roane County Youth Leadership students for joining us this evening and representing the future of our community.
👏 Roane County High School Softball Team finished their season with an outstanding 20–4 record and went undefeated in the district!
🍽️ Rockwood Middle School Cafeteria Staff shined on the national stage at the JTM Crave Contest, where students taste-tested recipes and voters across the nation participated. They proudly brought home the title of Best in Show!
🙌 A special thanks to our Roane County Youth Leadership students for joining us this evening and representing the future of our community.
Now enrolling for Pre-K at Kingston Elementary and Dyllis Springs!
A big THANK YOU to the Kingston Rotary Club for their generous $1,000 donation to the Roane County Children’s Fund!
Your support helps us continue meeting the needs of students across our district. We are grateful for community partners like you who invest in the success and well-being of our children.
#RoaneCountySchools #CommunityPartners #ThankYou
Your support helps us continue meeting the needs of students across our district. We are grateful for community partners like you who invest in the success and well-being of our children.
#RoaneCountySchools #CommunityPartners #ThankYou
Join our dedicated team and make a difference in the lives of students every day! We’re hiring passionate individuals who are committed to creating a positive learning environment. Apply now and help shape the future with us! 📚✨ #NowHiring
📚 Let's Work Together to Reduce Chronic Absenteeism! 🏫✨
Did you know there's a difference between being chronically absent and being truant?
✅ Chronic Absenteeism means a student misses 10% or more of the school year, that’s about 18 days, for any reason, excused or unexcused.
❌ Truancy refers specifically to unexcused absences, when a student skips school without a valid reason or proper documentation
Even excused absences can add up and impact learning! 🧠
Missing just 2 days a month can put students at risk of falling behind.
💡 Important Reminders:
✅ If your child misses school, make sure to send in notes, doctor/dentist excuses, or other documentation within 3 days of their return.
✅ Did you know? Telehealth visits are available through your child’s school! 🩺 Be sure to complete the necessary paperwork to take advantage of this convenient option.
📬 State Law Reminder:
Schools are required to notify parents/guardians in writing when a student reaches certain absence thresholds. These letters are not meant as punishment, they're meant to keep families informed and encourage support before absences become a barrier to success.
Let's build strong attendance habits and support student success, because every day counts!
Did you know there's a difference between being chronically absent and being truant?
✅ Chronic Absenteeism means a student misses 10% or more of the school year, that’s about 18 days, for any reason, excused or unexcused.
❌ Truancy refers specifically to unexcused absences, when a student skips school without a valid reason or proper documentation
Even excused absences can add up and impact learning! 🧠
Missing just 2 days a month can put students at risk of falling behind.
💡 Important Reminders:
✅ If your child misses school, make sure to send in notes, doctor/dentist excuses, or other documentation within 3 days of their return.
✅ Did you know? Telehealth visits are available through your child’s school! 🩺 Be sure to complete the necessary paperwork to take advantage of this convenient option.
📬 State Law Reminder:
Schools are required to notify parents/guardians in writing when a student reaches certain absence thresholds. These letters are not meant as punishment, they're meant to keep families informed and encourage support before absences become a barrier to success.
Let's build strong attendance habits and support student success, because every day counts!
🎓🏀 Coaches Matter. Let’s Treat Them That Way. 🏈📚
In education-based athletics, coaches are more than just game-day strategists. They’re mentors, teachers, and role models who help shape young athletes into leaders on and off the field.
Behind every practice, every tough conversation, and every life lesson is a coach committed to developing not just skills—but character.
👏 Let’s show our appreciation with respectful support from the stands.
🤝 Coaches deserve encouragement, not criticism.
🏟️ Positive fan behavior sets the tone for our athletes and our entire community.
Great programs start with great people.
Let’s stand behind our coaches the right way. 💪
In education-based athletics, coaches are more than just game-day strategists. They’re mentors, teachers, and role models who help shape young athletes into leaders on and off the field.
Behind every practice, every tough conversation, and every life lesson is a coach committed to developing not just skills—but character.
👏 Let’s show our appreciation with respectful support from the stands.
🤝 Coaches deserve encouragement, not criticism.
🏟️ Positive fan behavior sets the tone for our athletes and our entire community.
Great programs start with great people.
Let’s stand behind our coaches the right way. 💪
🚍 Bus Safety Reminders 🚨
We’re grateful to our city, county, and state police officers for helping patrol during morning and afternoon bus routes to keep our roads safe for students.
As the new school year begins, please help us protect all students by keeping these important safety reminders in mind:
🔴 Red Flashing Lights + Stop Sign = STOP!
Never pass a bus when the stop arm is out and lights are flashing, even on school property and on 3- or 4-lane roads without a permanent median.
🟡 Yellow Flashing Lights = Slow Down!
This means the bus is preparing to stop. Please don’t try to beat the bus, slow down and stay alert.
🚦 Railroad Crossings:
Buses must stop, look, and listen before crossing. 4-way flashers will be activated. It’s the law.
⛔ Don’t cut off or pull in front of a bus.
Buses need extra time and space to stop. Sudden stops can injure students onboard.
🏫 School Zones:
Stay alert. Watch for children and let buses pull out or turn when lights are flashing.
Let’s work together to make sure every student arrives safely.
We’re grateful to our city, county, and state police officers for helping patrol during morning and afternoon bus routes to keep our roads safe for students.
As the new school year begins, please help us protect all students by keeping these important safety reminders in mind:
🔴 Red Flashing Lights + Stop Sign = STOP!
Never pass a bus when the stop arm is out and lights are flashing, even on school property and on 3- or 4-lane roads without a permanent median.
🟡 Yellow Flashing Lights = Slow Down!
This means the bus is preparing to stop. Please don’t try to beat the bus, slow down and stay alert.
🚦 Railroad Crossings:
Buses must stop, look, and listen before crossing. 4-way flashers will be activated. It’s the law.
⛔ Don’t cut off or pull in front of a bus.
Buses need extra time and space to stop. Sudden stops can injure students onboard.
🏫 School Zones:
Stay alert. Watch for children and let buses pull out or turn when lights are flashing.
Let’s work together to make sure every student arrives safely.
📚✨ We’re excited to welcome everyone back for the first full day of school tomorrow in Roane County Schools!
Be sure to double-check your school’s arrival and tardy bell times, so students can start their day on time. Don’t forget, breakfast and lunch are free for all students this year!
Please visit your child’s school Facebook page for any important updates on drop-off and pick-up procedures.
We appreciate your patience as buses and car rider lines settle into routine over the next few days.
Let’s make it a great day and an even better year!
#RoaneCountySchools
📸 BACK TO SCHOOL PHOTO CALL! 📸
Roane County families, we want to see those first day smiles! Whether your student is starting pre-K, heading into their senior year, or anywhere in between, help us celebrate the start of an amazing 2025–2026 school year by sharing your back-to-school photos!
🗓 First day is tomorrow, Thursday, July 31 (Half Day)
📧 Send your photos to:
awphillips@roaneschools.com or remory@roaneschools.com
Photos will be featured on our Facebook page and could even appear on our district website!
Let’s show off our incredible students all across Roane County Schools!
📣 Roane County Schools Start & Dismissal Times 📣
🗓️ Thursday, July 31, 2025 is a half day for students across the district.
🚌 Buses will run, but please be patient as we work through the first day of routes. Thank you for your understanding and support as we kick off the 2025-2026 school year!
📚 Let’s make it a great year, Roane County!
🗓️ Thursday, July 31, 2025 is a half day for students across the district.
🚌 Buses will run, but please be patient as we work through the first day of routes. Thank you for your understanding and support as we kick off the 2025-2026 school year!
📚 Let’s make it a great year, Roane County!
🎓 All middle and high school teachers in Roane County Schools kicked off the new school year with an unforgettable, hands-on learning experience across Oak Ridge!
Teachers toured key sites and connected with leaders from ORNL, Y-12, TVA Clinch River, ORETTC, the K-25 History Center, UCOR, Orano, and TrisoX. They explored nuclear technology, careers, and the growing opportunities shaping our region’s future.
We’re especially excited about the new nuclear-focused programs at Roane State Community College! 🚀
Roane County is proud to help prepare students for the Nuclear Renaissance happening right here in our backyard. 🔬⚛️
📣 Roane County Schools - July Board Meeting Highlights
⚾️ RMS Baseball
Congratulations to Rockwood Middle School Baseball on a phenomenal season, undefeated in district play with no games lost! What an accomplishment! 💥
🎾 RCHS Student Spotlight
A big shoutout to Ellie Layne, who competed in the TSSAA State Tennis Semifinals! Ellie is also active in multiple sports and participates in dual enrollment. She is a true example of student excellence. 🎓🎉
A big thank you to our Roane County Youth Leadership members for attending the meeting and representing the future of our community.
📚✨ Meet the Teacher Nights are Coming Up! ✨📚
Meet the Teacher night and/or Open House are great opportunities to connect with teachers and get ready for a successful year. 🏫🎒
📌 For high school students and families, please visit your school’s Facebook page or website for details about back-to-school events and schedules.
We can't wait to welcome everyone back!
Meet the Teacher night and/or Open House are great opportunities to connect with teachers and get ready for a successful year. 🏫🎒
📌 For high school students and families, please visit your school’s Facebook page or website for details about back-to-school events and schedules.
We can't wait to welcome everyone back!
🛍️ TAX-FREE WEEKEND REMINDER! 🛍️
Take advantage of Tennessee’s Tax-Free Holiday this weekend! It's the perfect time to stock up on school supplies and back-to-school clothes , without the sales tax.
📚 Don’t forget to check your child’s school supply list on your school’s Facebook page or website.
👕 Before you shop for clothes, be sure to review the Roane County Schools dress code to make sure everything fits our guidelines.
Let’s get ready for a great school year!
Take advantage of Tennessee’s Tax-Free Holiday this weekend! It's the perfect time to stock up on school supplies and back-to-school clothes , without the sales tax.
📚 Don’t forget to check your child’s school supply list on your school’s Facebook page or website.
👕 Before you shop for clothes, be sure to review the Roane County Schools dress code to make sure everything fits our guidelines.
Let’s get ready for a great school year!
📢 Now Enrolling!
Head Start Programs
👶 Early Head Start
For children ages 0–3 and expectant mothers
🎓 Head Start Pre-School
For children ages 3–4
📅 Pre-K
Must be 4 years old by August 15th
📍 Give your child a strong start with high-quality early learning!
✅ Developmental support
✅ Nutritious meals
✅ Family resources
📞 Call the numbers listed below!
Head Start Programs
👶 Early Head Start
For children ages 0–3 and expectant mothers
🎓 Head Start Pre-School
For children ages 3–4
📅 Pre-K
Must be 4 years old by August 15th
📍 Give your child a strong start with high-quality early learning!
✅ Developmental support
✅ Nutritious meals
✅ Family resources
📞 Call the numbers listed below!
📱 Updated Cellphone Policy for Roane County Schools 📱
In response to the new state law and to support a focused, respectful learning environment, Roane County Schools has adopted a new School Board Policy on Personal Communication Devices for the 2025 school year.
🔹 Middle & High School Students’ personal devices (phones, smartwatches, eyeglasses and rings that have the capability to connect to the internet, etc.) must be turned off and stored in backpacks or personal bags during the school day. In case of an emergency, school officials may grant permission for students to use their phones.
🔹 K-5 Students, In-School Suspension, and Alternative Program Students are not permitted to possess personal devices at school.
🔹 Students with medical needs requiring phone access may apply for an exemption through a physician-approved Healthcare Plan.
🔹 On school buses, students in grades 6–12 may use devices in silent mode only.
❌ Unauthorized use or improper storage will result in the device being confiscated and released only to a parent or guardian. Repeated violations will lead to progressive discipline, including suspension.
🚫 The inappropriate use of technology (including texting during class, using a cellphone camera, unauthorized recording, or sharing inappropriate content) is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.
Here are 5 key reasons why this change is needed:
‼️Be current with the state law on cell phone use in schools
✅ Fewer distractions = better academic focus
🧠 Improved mental health and reduced social pressure
👥 More face-to-face interaction and stronger peer connections
🛡️ Increased privacy and safety during school hours
We appreciate your support as we work to maintain safe, distraction-free schools for all students.
#RoaneCountySchools #FocusOnLearning #PolicyUpdate
In response to the new state law and to support a focused, respectful learning environment, Roane County Schools has adopted a new School Board Policy on Personal Communication Devices for the 2025 school year.
🔹 Middle & High School Students’ personal devices (phones, smartwatches, eyeglasses and rings that have the capability to connect to the internet, etc.) must be turned off and stored in backpacks or personal bags during the school day. In case of an emergency, school officials may grant permission for students to use their phones.
🔹 K-5 Students, In-School Suspension, and Alternative Program Students are not permitted to possess personal devices at school.
🔹 Students with medical needs requiring phone access may apply for an exemption through a physician-approved Healthcare Plan.
🔹 On school buses, students in grades 6–12 may use devices in silent mode only.
❌ Unauthorized use or improper storage will result in the device being confiscated and released only to a parent or guardian. Repeated violations will lead to progressive discipline, including suspension.
🚫 The inappropriate use of technology (including texting during class, using a cellphone camera, unauthorized recording, or sharing inappropriate content) is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.
Here are 5 key reasons why this change is needed:
‼️Be current with the state law on cell phone use in schools
✅ Fewer distractions = better academic focus
🧠 Improved mental health and reduced social pressure
👥 More face-to-face interaction and stronger peer connections
🛡️ Increased privacy and safety during school hours
We appreciate your support as we work to maintain safe, distraction-free schools for all students.
#RoaneCountySchools #FocusOnLearning #PolicyUpdate
**Notice**
📱 Research on Kids and Phone Addiction
Recent studies consistently show that phone addiction in children and teens is a growing mental health issue, affecting emotional well-being, sleep, relationships, and academic performance.
🔍 Key Findings:
Half of kids aged 9–13 already show signs of addictive phone or social media behavior, not just high usage but compulsive habits like needing to check constantly or feeling anxious without a device.
- Addictive phone behaviors are linked to a 2–3× higher risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, more so than the total number of hours spent on devices.
- Heavy phone users report more sleep problems, irritability, loneliness, and trouble focusing in school.
- Brain studies show early, excessive screen use affects areas of the brain tied to impulse control and emotional regulation.
🛑 What Experts Recommend:
* Focus less on daily screen limits and more on recognizing compulsive behaviors like: checking without reason, distress when separated, or neglecting real-world activities.
* Encourage offline activities like journaling, reading ,sports, exercise, and face-to-face friendships.
* Limit device use during meals, family time, bedtime, and school hours.
Recent studies consistently show that phone addiction in children and teens is a growing mental health issue, affecting emotional well-being, sleep, relationships, and academic performance.
🔍 Key Findings:
Half of kids aged 9–13 already show signs of addictive phone or social media behavior, not just high usage but compulsive habits like needing to check constantly or feeling anxious without a device.
- Addictive phone behaviors are linked to a 2–3× higher risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, more so than the total number of hours spent on devices.
- Heavy phone users report more sleep problems, irritability, loneliness, and trouble focusing in school.
- Brain studies show early, excessive screen use affects areas of the brain tied to impulse control and emotional regulation.
🛑 What Experts Recommend:
* Focus less on daily screen limits and more on recognizing compulsive behaviors like: checking without reason, distress when separated, or neglecting real-world activities.
* Encourage offline activities like journaling, reading ,sports, exercise, and face-to-face friendships.
* Limit device use during meals, family time, bedtime, and school hours.
**Notice**
