The 2026-2027 Handbook provides detailed information about Percy Priest Elementary, from what to wear and how transportation works to explanations about events throughout the year. Check it out below!
Welcome to Percy Priest Elementary
Dear Percy Priest Families,
Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year!
Whether you’re joining the Percy Priest community for the very first time or returning for another wonderful year, we’re so glad you’re here. On behalf of the Percy Priest PTO, welcome to a school community that is known for its exceptional teachers, engaged families, and the incredible support we provide one another.
This handbook is designed to serve as a helpful guide throughout the school year. Inside you’ll find information about school traditions, transportation, volunteer opportunities, PTO programs, important events, and resources to help your family navigate the year with confidence.
What makes Percy Priest truly special is our community. The PTO works alongside our administration, teachers, and staff to enrich every student’s experience through fundraising, volunteerism, family events, and meaningful programs that support learning both inside and outside the classroom. Whether you have time to volunteer at an event, attend a PTO meeting, support INVEST, or simply cheer on our students, every family plays an important role in making our school the incredible place it is.
We encourage you to stay connected throughout the year by:
- Visiting the PTO website for news, resources, and volunteer opportunities
- Subscribing to the PTO Calendar
- Reading the weekly PTO newsletter
- Joining Membership Toolkit to stay connected with your child’s class and school events
- Following Percy Priest PTO on social media for reminders and highlights throughout the year
We hope this handbook becomes a resource you’ll return to throughout the school year. As always, if you have questions, ideas, or would like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you. While every effort has been made to ensure the information in this handbook is accurate at the time of publication, school procedures, dates, and events may change throughout the year. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to official school communications, the PTO website, the online PTO calendar, and weekly newsletters.
Here’s to another amazing year of learning, friendship, and Tiger pride!
Warmly,
Melissa Hodges Smithson
PTO President
Table of Contents
- Welcome
- Stay Connected
- Tiger Terms
- Tiger Transportation
- Annual Traditions & Events
- School Policies
- Helpful Resources
Stay Connected
One of the easiest ways to stay informed is by connecting with the PTO throughout the year.
PTO Website
Visit www.percypriest.org for volunteer opportunities, event information, forms, and important resources.
PTO Calendar
Subscribe to the online calendar so event updates automatically appear on your personal calendar.
Weekly PTO Newsletter
The newsletter includes upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, reminders, and important school announcements.
Membership Toolkit
Membership Toolkit is the primary communication platform for the PTO. Families can access the school directory, classroom information, volunteer opportunities, and PTO communications in one convenient place.
Tiger Terms
The following terms will help familiarize your family with some of the traditions, programs, and resources that make Percy Priest Elementary such a special place. We hope this guide answers many of your questions and helps you feel right at home.
Friday Folders
Each Friday, students bring home a Friday Folder containing completed classwork, school information, and important announcements. Please review the contents over the weekend and return the folder empty on Monday. Be sure to check for any time-sensitive forms or information from your child’s teacher.
INVEST
INVEST is the Percy Priest PTO’s primary fundraising campaign and one of the most important ways families support every student at our school.
Parents and caregivers will learn more about the 2026-2027 ask when the INVEST campaign kicks off at Open House on August 20.
INVEST provides funding for programs and resources that directly benefit every child, including additional instructional support, counseling services, related arts, classroom enhancements, and other opportunities that enrich the student experience beyond district funding. Your generosity helps ensure Percy Priest continues to provide an exceptional learning environment for all students.
Questions about INVEST? Contact the committee at InvestPPE@gmail.com.
Percy the Tiger
Percy the Tiger is the proud mascot of Percy Priest Elementary and can often be spotted at school events, community celebrations, and special activities throughout the year. Be sure to stop for a photo when Percy makes an appearance!
House System
Every Percy Priest student belongs to one of our five school houses, creating smaller communities within our larger school family. The House System encourages leadership, teamwork, school spirit, and positive character while helping students build meaningful relationships across grade levels.
Students participate in House Meetings and other activities throughout the school year that celebrate accomplishments, encourage collaboration, and strengthen our school community.
The Five Houses
|
House |
Character Trait |
Color |
|
Altruismo |
Givers |
Black |
|
Amistad |
Friendship |
Red |
|
Sollevare |
Uplifting Others |
Yellow |
|
Isibindi |
Courage |
Green |
|
Reveur |
Dreamers |
Blue |
Navigator Weeks
At the end of each quarter, students participate in Navigator Week, a special time dedicated to building relationships, encouraging student voice, and fostering a strong school community.
During Navigator Week, students meet individually with their teacher or designated staff member, participate in service-learning opportunities, and engage in activities that promote leadership, kindness, and global citizenship.
Black & Orange Totes
One of Percy Priest’s unique traditions is our signature school totes.
- Pre-K students receive a black tote.
- Kindergarten students receive an orange tote.
These totes take the place of traditional backpacks and help keep our youngest Tigers organized throughout the school day. The PTO provides these totes to every Pre-K and Kindergarten student at no cost.
Totes are distributed during Kindergarten Readiness Camp, All School Sneak-a-Peek, or may be picked up in the front office before the first day of school. Families may choose to have their child’s tote personalized with a monogram. Information about optional monogramming is shared before the school year begins. (Distribution details should be verified to confirm whether Pre-K black totes follow the same pickup process as Kindergarten.)
School Clubs
Percy Priest offers a variety of after-school clubs led by teachers, staff members, and approved community partners. Club offerings vary throughout the year and may include enrichment, athletics, arts, STEM, and other special interests.
Registration information is shared through Friday Folders, the PTO Newsletter, and the PTO website. Most clubs begin after Labor Day, and fees may apply depending on the activity.
School Meals
Breakfast and lunch are available each school day, and students are welcome to bring lunch from home or enjoy school meals in the cafeteria.
Students who bring lunch from home may purchase milk for $0.50. Cash is not accepted. Funds may be added through MySchoolBucks. You may add money using the My School Bucks App or at www.myschoolbucks.com.
For school menus click here.
To sign up to visit at lunch click here.
School Supply Lists
Grade-level school supply lists are available here before the start of each school year. Families who participate in the the 1st Day School Supplies fundraising program will have their supplies delivered directly to their child’s classroom before school begins.
Snacks
Students enjoy a daily classroom snack sent from home each day. Your child’s teacher will share any classroom-specific snack guidelines and allergy information before school begins.
Standard School Attire (SSA)
Percy Priest follows Metro Nashville Public Schools’ Standard School Attire (SSA) guidelines. Our school’s specific requirements are located here.
PPE “spirit wear” will be available for purchase from the Roar Store throughout the school year. “Spirit wear” may be worn any day of the week.
Transportation
Annual Traditions & Events
One of the things that makes Percy Priest so special is the strong sense of community we build throughout the year. From family events and school traditions to fundraising and celebrations, these experiences bring students, families, teachers, and staff together in meaningful ways.
Many event dates vary from year to year. For the most current schedule, please refer to the PTO Calendar and weekly newsletter.
Kindergarten Readiness Camp
Kindergarten Readiness Camp helps incoming kindergarten students become comfortable with their new school before the first day. Students spend time in kindergarten classrooms, meet teachers, explore the building, and participate in fun readiness activities through books, music, games, and hands-on learning.
Sensory Friendly Sneak-a-Peek
Sensory-Friendly Sneak-a-Peek featuring CARE is a quieter, self-guided opportunity designed especially for CARE (Creating Access, Representation & Empathy) families. CARE materials are provided to guide students and families through the school at their own pace.
All School Sneak-a-Peek & Popsicle Party
One of our favorite traditions of the year! Families have the opportunity to meet teachers, visit classrooms, drop off school supplies, and reconnect with friends before school begins.
The PTO will also distribute Kindergarten orange totes and Pre-K black totes, answer questions, and have spirit wear available for purchase from the Roar Store.
Open House
Open House provides parents and caregivers with an opportunity to learn about classroom expectations, curriculum, communication, and the exciting year ahead. Teachers share important information while parents and caregivers connect with one another and begin building their classroom community.
INVEST Kickoff and Social
INVEST is the PTO’s largest fundraising initiative and supports programs and resources that benefit every Percy Priest student. Families will learn more about this important campaign during the kickoff event.
Fall Community Event
This annual event brings our school community together for an evening of fun, fellowship, and school spirit. It’s a wonderful opportunity for new and returning families to connect outside the classroom.
Tiger Cup Golf Tournament
Our annual golf tournament fundraiser supports the PTO while bringing together families, alumni, and community partners for a day on the course.
Percy’s Vintage Closet
Shop gently loved Percy Priest spirit wear while supporting the PTO. It’s a great way to stock up on Tiger gear while giving items a second life.
Songwriters’ Night
One of Percy Priest’s signature fundraising events, Songwriters’ Night features talented local songwriters sharing stories and music in an intimate Nashville-style evening.
Walk to School Day
Students and families are encouraged to enjoy walking to school together while celebrating healthy habits and community connections.
Trunk or Treat
Decorated trunks, costumes, candy, and plenty of Tiger spirit make this one of the most anticipated community events of the fall.
Harvest Parties
Classroom celebrations help students enjoy the season while spending time together with classmates and volunteers.
GrandFriends Day
Grandparents and other special friends are invited to experience a day at Percy Priest alongside their favorite Tiger. Visitors enjoy classroom activities, explore the Book Fair, and make lasting memories while celebrating the important role they play in our students’ lives.
Book Fair
The annual Book Fair is a favorite tradition that helps foster a love of reading while supporting our school library. Students enjoy browsing for new books, creating wish lists, and sharing the excitement of discovering their next great read. Families are invited to shop together during designated community shopping times.
Holiday Classroom Celebrations
Before Winter Break, classrooms celebrate the season with class parties and special activities. These festive celebrations are made possible by our wonderful teachers, room parents, and volunteers.
Fine Arts & Musical Student Showcases
Throughout the year, students have opportunities to share their creativity and talents through art displays, musical performances, and other special showcases that celebrate learning and self-expression.
100th Day of School for Kindergarten
Our youngest Tigers celebrate the 100th day of school with fun classroom activities that recognize this exciting milestone. Kindergarten students often dress as 100-year-olds while participating in creative learning experiences centered around the number 100.
Teacher Appreciation Week
Our school community comes together to celebrate the incredible teachers and staff who make Percy Priest such a special place. Families, students, and the PTO work together throughout the week to express gratitude for their dedication and impact.
Used Book Sale
Families are invited to donate gently loved books that can find new homes with fellow Tigers. This annual tradition encourages reading while giving students the opportunity to build their personal libraries.
Valentine’s Day Parties
Each classroom celebrates Valentine’s Day with activities, treats, and time together. Room parents and volunteers help make these celebrations memorable for every student.
Read-A-Thon
The Read-A-Thon encourages students to develop a lifelong love of reading while supporting our school community. Throughout the event, students are challenged to read, discover new books, and celebrate literacy through fun activities and friendly participation.
Percy’s Reading Party
Reading comes to life during this family favorite community event filled with stories, games, crafts, or other hands-on activities that celebrate imagination and the joy of reading.
Talent Show
Our talented Tigers take center stage as students showcase their unique gifts through music, dance, comedy, magic, gymnastics, and more. This much-loved event celebrates confidence, creativity, and school spirit.
Auction and Auction Party
One of the PTO’s signature fundraising events, the annual Auction Party brings together parents, alumni, faculty, and friends for an unforgettable evening supporting Percy Priest. Through silent and live auctions, exciting experiences, and generous community support, this event helps fund programs and opportunities that benefit every student.
March MATHness
Students celebrate mathematics through engaging activities, challenges, games, and hands-on learning experiences that make math fun for every grade level.
Winter and Spring Drama Performances
Student performers showcase their hard work and creativity through spring theatrical productions that highlight teamwork, confidence, and the performing arts.
Field Day
One of the most anticipated days of the year, Field Day celebrates teamwork, sportsmanship, and school spirit through outdoor games and friendly competition. Families are encouraged to volunteer and help make this exciting tradition a success.
Spring Community Event
Our final community event of the school year brings Percy Priest families together to celebrate another incredible year. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy time with friends, make lasting memories, and celebrate the strong community that makes PPE so special.
5th Grade Promotion
As the school year comes to a close, we proudly celebrate our fifth-grade students as they prepare for middle school. Families, teachers, and classmates gather to recognize their accomplishments and wish them well on their next adventure.
School Policies
2026-2027 Student-Parent Handbook
The MNPS Student-Parent Handbook, found online, has important information for you and your student to review. The Student-Parent Handbook is easy to access, search and bookmark to review later. It is designed to be a reference guide you and your student can use as the school year progresses. The Student-Parent Handbook includes several forms that require parent/guardian review and response. Review and submit these forms online at permissions.mnps.org.
Inclement Weather
Occasionally, weather conditions will cause schools to open late, dismiss early, or close altogether. If we are experiencing or expecting severe weather, please monitor the MNPS Website, our social media channels, or our local television and/or radio stations for the latest school closing information. Please do NOT call your school or the Customer Service Center for this information. Please see the full policy on inclement weather from MNPS.
Attendance
Parents, guardians, and other persons with parental rights, with legal responsibility of any child or children between the ages of six (6) and seventeen (17) years, both inclusive, shall be responsible for their attendance in a public or non-public school. In the event of failure to do so, the parents, guardian, or other persons will be subject to the penalties provided in the Compulsory School Attendance Law.
Immunization Protocol
All students entering MNPS MUST present proof of immunization, physical examination from within the U.S. and record of birth prior to admission. State law (T.C.A. 49-6-5002) requires schools through 12th grade to accept only an Official Certificate of Immunization provided by the Department of Health, completed and signed by a physician or health care provider administering immunizations, as proof of immunization for enrollment purposes. Certificates printed from the Tennessee State Immunization Registry do not require a signature, but should be accepted as well.
All grade level students should be up to date with their immunizations requirements before returning to school. For more information regarding grade level requirements, please refer to our MNPS policy Entrance Requirements SP 6.132.
Immunizations are available through the Metro Public Health Department at the Lentz, East and Woodbine Clinic locations. The clinics are open from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday for walk-in vaccinations. Appointments are necessary and families should carry their child’s shot record to confirm what immunizations are needed.
Health History and When to Stay Home
Sometimes it is hard to know when to keep your child home from school and when to send them. Use the form here to help make an educated decision for your family and other students at school.
View the student health history form
Flu & Meningitis Sheets
Per state law T.C.A. § 49-6-5005, information on both flu and meningitis must be
distributed to all students at the start of every school year.
T.C.A. § 49-6-5005. Information about Meningitis and Influenza and the Effectiveness of
Vaccination (a) LEAs shall ensure that schools provide parents and guardians with information
about meningococcal disease and the effectiveness of vaccination against meningococcal
disease at the beginning of every school year. This information shall include the causes,
symptoms and means by which meningococcal disease is spread and the places where parents
and guardians may obtain additional information and vaccinations for their children. Nothing in
this subsection (a) shall be construed to require an LEA or school to provide or purchase
vaccine against meningococcal disease. (b) LEAs shall ensure that schools provide parents and
guardians with information about influenza disease and the effectiveness of vaccination against
influenza at the beginning of every school year. This information must include the causes,
symptoms, and means by which influenza is spread and the places where parents and
guardians may obtain additional information and vaccinations for their children. Nothing in this
subsection (b) requires an LEA or school to provide or purchase vaccine against influenza. The
department of education, in consultation with the department of health, shall provide information to LEAs to assist in the implementation of this subsection (b).0
Helpful Resources
For the most current information throughout the school year, please use these resources:
|
Resource |
Purpose |
|
PTO news, events, volunteer opportunities, forms, and resources |
|
|
School events and important dates |
|
|
Weekly reminders and announcements |
|
|
Directory, classroom communication, volunteer sign-ups, and PTO information |
|
|
Student meal account management |
|
|
District policies and procedures |
|
|
District news, transportation, school calendars, and family resources |
About This Handbook
The Percy Priest Elementary PTO Handbook is designed to be a practical, easy-to-use resource for families throughout the school year. Inside you’ll find information about school traditions, transportation procedures, annual events, volunteer opportunities, PTO programs, and helpful resources.
This handbook complements, but does not replace, official Metro Nashville Public Schools policies and procedures. For district-wide policies, including attendance, student conduct, health requirements, and other important information, families should refer to the current MNPS Student-Parent Handbook.
As our school community grows and evolves, this handbook may be updated periodically. The most current information will always be available through official Percy Priest and MNPS communications.
Welcome to the Pride
Thank you for being part of the Percy Priest family.
Whether you’re volunteering at your first event, helping in the classroom, cheering on your child at Field Day, or supporting INVEST, you are an important part of what makes our school extraordinary.
We look forward to an incredible 2026–2027 school year.
Once a Tiger, always a Tiger!