Registration now open online for new students

Students new to Hamilton County Schools now can register online for the upcoming school year.

The new online registration system launched on July 11 provides an alternative for parents who are typically asked to come in person and register their children at the school or to fill out registration packets at home with students during the first weeks of the year.

Though the district acknowledged some challenges with the system last week, principals and school officials said the process is now running smoother.

“We haven’t experienced any problems with online registration,” said LaFrederick Thirkill, principal of Orchard Knob Elementary. “We have told parents that we will have computers and be available on Aug. 3 at the school for those who need assistance.”

Aug. 3 is the official registration day for the district. School leaders were prompted to be available with computers and “paper and pencil” registration forms on the day.

Rivermont Elementary’s new principal, Jill Evans, declined to comment but did say she was in the office this week to answer calls and field questions and that her staff also would be available on Aug. 3.

Parents or guardians need several documents to successfully register their children for the upcoming school year, including copies of the child’s birth certificate, the child’s Social Security card, a Tennessee School Immunization Certificate, a photo ID of the parent or guardian, any custody documentation and two proofs of residency that could include a lease, mortgage or deed or two utility bills dated within the last 30-60 days.

Parents also need a “Snap code,” which was sent home with their child before the end of the last school year. The codes have proved the most challenging step, as some parents never received the codes or have misplaced them in the weeks since they were sent home.

Speaking as a parent herself, Hixson Middle School Principal Leangela Rogers said she was very happy with the new process, though.

“Registering my own child took a whole lot less time to do,” Rogers said. “I think it is going to be a great thing, it just has some growing pains.”

School registration will continue through Tuesday, Sept. 7.

To register your child, visit the district’s registration portal online. For assistance or more information, contact Hamilton County Schools at 423-498-7104.