A significant policy update was approved during the Dickson County Board of Education's regular session on August 28, 2025, focusing on student searches and zero-tolerance offenses. The board unanimously approved the proposed changes to Policy 6.303, which now mandates that any administrator conducting a search of a student must complete training provided by the Tennessee Department of Education. This training was completed just before the school year began in July, ensuring that all school administrators and central office staff are prepared for such situations.

In addition, the board discussed changes to Policy 6.309 regarding zero-tolerance offenses. A key update stipulates that for a threat of mass violence to be classified as a zero-tolerance offense, it must be deemed credible by the school's threat assessment team. While formatting changes were also made, the primary focus remained on the credibility requirement for mass violence threats.

Concerns were raised about the lack of reference to the Disciplinary Hearing Authority (DHA) in the policy, particularly regarding the assignment of students to alternative schools. Board members emphasized the importance of ensuring that any student facing such consequences has the opportunity for a hearing, as is standard practice in the district.

The board's decisions reflect a commitment to enhancing safety protocols in schools while ensuring due process for students. The approved policies will be implemented immediately, with ongoing discussions anticipated to clarify any ambiguities regarding the DHA's role in zero-tolerance cases.