PROCEDURES OF THE RCSHOMEBOUNDPROGRAM

The purpose of the Homeboundprogram is to provide instruction while the student is physically or mentally incapable of participation in regular classroom activities.Students unable to attend school may be eligible for Homebound instruction. The student’s medical or psychological disability must be fully documented and verified by his/her health care provider.Medical documentation (i.e. progress notes, admission and discharge summary, etc.), and a fully completed Homebound Referral package must accompany any request for Homebound. Upon receipt of all required documentation, a determination will be made regarding your child’s eligibility for Homebound services.

The parent is responsible for the completion and return of the Homebound packet. Do not expect the physician to send it from his/her office. All forms must be returned completed and signed before the packet can be reviewed by the Homebound committee.

Placement in the Homeboundprogram should be viewed as a temporary intervention. Homebound service consists of two home visits per week for 1½ hours per visit. All students will be returned to a regular school placement where the least restrictive educational experience can be provided as soon as possible.

Parent(s)/Guardian(s) are responsible for assisting their child by following the procedures listed below:

  • The parent/guardian, or responsible adult of at least 18 years of age, MUST be present in the home during the ENTIRE instructional period.
  • The student will have any necessary nursing/medical care before the teacher’s arrival.
  • A quiet area, equipped with a table or desk and chairs, must be provided for use of the student and teacher during scheduled class times. If the student is bedridden, a specified place near the bed must be arranged for teaching materials.
  • The necessary school materials (pen, pencils, paper, textbooks, etc.) are to be available.
  • The teacher and the student are not to be disturbed during the instructional period.
  • A regular program of study and preparation of lessons is required for each student. In addition to the two 1½ hour sessions of instruction provided by the Homebound teacher, the student will be expected to complete assignments on his/her own time. Assignments must be completed prior to the Homebound teacher’s next scheduled visit.
  • The Homeboundprogram follows the grading policy adopted by the Rutherford County Schools.
  • The Homeboundprogram adheres to the school board policy on attendance. All absences will be reported to the attendance office. Doctor’s excuses are required for all absences.
  • Homebound students will receive their instruction either at the home or residence of the parent/guardian who requests the service or at the hospital. Alternative arrangements for instruction at a different location must be authorized by the supervisor of the Homeboundprogram.
  • Updated medical information may be requested periodically.
  • The Genesis Homebound department must be notified by 4:30 p.m. on the day prior to a scheduled appointment or any situation necessitating the student’s absence. Emergency absences may be reported between 4:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. by dialing (615) 832-4222. A secretary will return your call.
  • A verification form must be signed by the adult present during Homebound instruction.
  • No student placed in the HomeboundProgram should be actively engaged in employment. Such employment may result in the student’s removal from the HomeboundProgram.
  • No student placed in the HomeboundProgram is to visit their school campus unless specifically authorized by the school administration. Students are not to attend extracurricular activities such as school dances and sporting events unless specifically authorized by the principal of the school. Attendance at such activities without prior written authorization may result in the student’s removal from the HomeboundProgram.
  • At the end of your child’s Homebound placement, a survey will be sent for you to evaluate the program. When the survey arrives, please take time to complete it and return it to the Homebound office.

Parent/Guardian Homebound Checklist:

The following information included in this packet must be completed and faxed to (615) 904-3797:

___ Healthcare Provider Documentation - completed by doctor/healthcare provider

___ Permission for Release of Records/Information - signed by parent/guardian

___ Parent Authorization - signed by parent/guardian