Absences from School
Please refer to the district policy manual. More information on school attendance policies is available from the Office of the Assistant Superintendent.
- 5200 - Pupils - Attendance
- 5200R - Pupils - Attendance Regulations
Insight on School Attendance
In order for students to learn and achieve their fullest potential, it is critical that they are in school and engaged in the learning process. Research shows that student absences impact a child’s ability to succeed in school.
A growing and compelling body of research demonstrates that chronic absence from school – typically defined as missing at least 10 percent (18 days) of school days in a year for any reason, excused or unexcused – is a primary cause of low academic achievement and a powerful predictor of which students will eventually drop out of school.
Did You Know?
A student is chronically absent if the student misses a few as two days of school a month. 2 DAYS PER MONTH x 9 MONTHS = CHRONIC ABSENCE
Parents need to contact the school to report the reason for each absence when their child is not in school. The reported absence will be coded as excused or unexcused based upon the state and district attendance policies. If the parent does not contact the school, then the absence will be recorded as unexcused.
All absences, excused and unexcused, count toward chronic absenteeism. A student may be denied course credit if they miss more than 10% of any course (chronic absenteeism). All unexcused absences count toward truancy. Information on the attached sheet outlines the differences between excused and unexcused absences and how all absences from school count toward chronic absenteeism and/or truancy.
If you have questions or concerns with your student’s attendance records, please contact your child's school.
Attendance Works: Keep Your Child on Track in Middle and High School.
Attendance Matters
Consistent attendance is essential for students’ success in school and beyond. When students attend regularly, they gain more than just academic skills; they develop lifelong habits that set them up for future achievement. Here’s why attendance is so important:
- Academic Growth: Regular attendance helps students keep up with lessons and assignments, building a strong foundation in all subjects.
- Social-Emotional Development: Being at school allows students to form friendships, develop social skills, and practice teamwork.
- Building Life Skills: Attending school daily teaches responsibility, time management, and commitment—skills valuable for future work and life.
- Higher Graduation Rates: Students who attend school regularly are more likely to graduate and pursue further education or career opportunities.
- Community and Belonging: Consistent attendance fosters a sense of community, making students feel more connected and engaged in school activities.
Encouraging strong attendance helps students make the most of their school experience and sets them on the path toward a successful future.
Learn more about how you can support your child’s attendance for each grade band by clicking below:
Preschool/Kindergarten
Elementary School
Middle/High School
