First Days of School Quick Notes 2024-2025
Dear Parents & Families,
Welcome back to a new school year at James Lawson High School! We are excited to see familiar faces and new ones joining our Lawson lightning family. Below you will find some quick reference information specifically concerning the first days of school and upcoming school events. Additional details can be found in our Student Parent Handbook which can be accessed by scanning the code at the bottom of this letter.
Upcoming Events Before School
Sneak Peek: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. August 2
- There will be a drop-in sneak peek for all students and parents. During this time students can pick up their 2024-2025 class schedules, meet teachers and find out more about a day in the life of a Lawson student. Additionally, students can log in to Infinite Campus to view their schedules.
- Freshman will be issued laptops that day. All other students will receive their laptops during the first week of school.
- Please note no official tours will be available that day as the school will still be preparing for the first day of school and undergoing cleaning. We will hold our annual Open House on August 22nd from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and look forward to seeing you there!
When Is The First Day Of School?
- August 6
- Doors open at 6:45 a.m.
What Will The First Day Of School Look Like?
Students will follow a regular schedule on the first day of school with 1st period beginning at 7:05. MNPS recently approved a seven-period schedule for all high schools. Each class period will last 48 minutes except for Wednesdays and Thursdays when classes will be 85 minutes. This allows more time for teachers to conduct labs and work closely with students.
What If I Can’t Find My Schedule Room Teacher?
No worries! We will have dedicated staff posted in numerous stations throughout each academy hallway. Additionally, we will have a comprehensive teacher and classroom list available for easy reference during the day.
What If I Have A Request To Change My Schedule Or Need A Schedule?
Lawson staff will be available to direct students without schedules to the library or designated areas for assistance. Counselors will provide information on the first day for students requesting a schedule change. While all counselors look forward to working with students and families, they may not be able to meet one-on-one due to the high volume of needs. Schedule change requests will be updated on a first-come, first-served basis.
How Do I Find Out What MNPS Bus Do I Ride?
You can find your Metro Nashville Public Schools bus stop and route number using the Find My Bus Stop online tool. Keep in mind that actual route and stop times might vary due to factors like driver shortages, traffic, or mechanical issues. If your student’s bus is more than 20 minutes late, you can call (615) 259-INFO (4636) for assistance. Remember to have your child arrive at the bus stop 10 minutes before the scheduled arrival time and ensure they board and leave the bus at their assigned stop. The route number will be displayed near the second window on the entrance side of the bus.
Where Do Car Riders Get Dropped Off?
The North Parking lot loop has been designated for all car rider drop-offs. Upon entering the JLHS campus, drivers should take a right at the stop sign and proceed up the hill. Follow the loop around the North lot where car riders are dropped off beside the North doors. Students can then enter through these doors. After drop-off, drivers should continue around the circle and take a left to exit the Lawson campus. Please refer to the Lawson overview map to locate the North entrance. Our staff will be visible and present each day during car rider drop-off to help direct traffic and establish familiarity with traffic patterns.
What Can Students Wear To School?
All students are expected to follow the Lawson Dress Code. Students should dress comfortably and appropriately to avoid distracting from the learning environment. Key guidelines include ensuring proper lengths, avoiding tank tops and see-through materials, and keeping undergarments hidden. Students should also avoid hats, headgear (including hoods), and clothing with defamatory logos or language depicting drugs, alcohol, or illegal activities. Approved head coverings worn for religious reasons are allowed. For more details, please review the complete dress code located in our student parent handbook.
When Can I Use My Cell Phone Or Electronics?
Cellphones (and any electronic devices) must be off or on silent and kept in backpacks from the beginning to the end of class. Cell phones are only allowed during transitions and lunch. In case of emergencies, administration and/or teachers will provide instructions for accessing phones.
What Are The Breakfast and Lunch Procedures?
Breakfast & Lunch is served each day free of charge to students. Breakfast will be served from 6:45-7:00. Students are assigned a 30-minute lunch based upon their academy. Additionally, students may bring a lunch and use the school-supplied microwaves located in the cafeteria.
Can Students Leave Or Order Food To Be Delivered?
James Lawson is a closed campus. Students may not leave campus to purchase food or have food delivered (DoorDash/UberEats, etc.). All food delivered to the campus will be rejected. Our student body also enjoys “Bojangles” days throughout the school year.
When Will My Student Receive Their MNPS Laptop?
Technology plays a very important role in any student's success in high school and beyond. Our media specialist and admin team work very hard to issue all students an MNPS laptop within the first week of school. MNPS utilizes Schoology that allows teachers to upload content, create assignments, and interact with students. Please refer to the student handbook to learn more about how to access Schoology and review our laptop policy.
How Can I Become Involved With Parent Organizations At Lawson?
The Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) at James Lawson High School plays a vital role in fostering collaboration between parents, teachers, and staff to enhance our students' educational experience. The PTO organizes events, fundraisers, and volunteer opportunities that support school programs and create a strong community spirit. By joining the PTO, parents can stay informed, contribute their talents, and help make a positive impact on the school environment. For more information on how to get involved, please contact the PTO or attend our next meeting. Your participation is greatly appreciated!
Where Can I Access The MNPS Parent Student Handbook And Complete Necessary Forms?
The MNPS District Parent Student handbook is in digital format and can be found on the MNPS website.
- This handbook provides essential information on student rights, discipline rules, procedures, and family resources. It also includes important permissions needed for your child’s access to programs, equipment, and information release.
- Guardians should review and respond to these permissions. For questions or translation services, please call the Family Information Center at 615-259-INFO (4636) or contact your student's principal.
Administration
- Dr. Stephen Sheaffer, Executive Principal, James Lawson High School
- Ms. Shannon Fey, Freshman Academy Principal
- Ms. Dayna Sewell, Academy of Art Design and Communication
- Dr. Avery Finch, Academy of Business and Hospitality & Academy of Health Sciences
- Ms. Abbey McDowd, Academy of Engineering
Thank You!
Thank you for entrusting us with your child. We eagerly anticipate another fantastic year at James Lawson!
Feel free to reach out if you need further assistance!