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ATTENDANCE RESPONSIBILITIES

Truancy Law: School Attendance is required.

A child between the ages of 7 and 17 must attend school. At the age of 17, a youth cannot drop out of school without their parents' permission. Written forms must be completed at a school meeting.

 

Schools, parents/guardians, and students have responsibilities which include:

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SCHOOLS:

  • Provide a program or schedule that meets the student’s educational needs.

  • Address problems identified as barriers to the student’s attending and learning.

  • Maintain accurate attendance records and document communication with parents/ guardians and students about attendance.

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PARENTS & GUARDIANS:

  • Talk and listen to your student - address the reasons for missing school.

  • Share with your student just how important school is to their future.

  • Help with homework questions or find someone to assist if needed.

  • Have a set bedtime and morning routine.

  • Get your student an alarm clock.

  • Communicate with the school and their attendance policy.

  • Don’t cover for your student's unexcused absences.

  • Get your student services if problems interfere with school attendance.

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STUDENTS:

  • You can find a caring adult who can help you...share with them your struggles with school.

  • Talk to someone.

  • It is your responsibility to get to school daily and be on time.

  • Complete your homework daily.

  • Know and follow school policies and rules.

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What are good or not-so-good reasons to miss school?

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EXCUSED ABSENCES:

A parent or guardian may seek an excused absence from school for his/her child. A school can accept or deny an application for an excused absence.

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VALID EXCUSES FOR MISSING SCHOOL:

  • Sickness - you may be required to have documentation from your doctor.

  • Medical treatment, including mental health

  • Religious holidays

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INVALID REASONS FOR MISSING SCHOOL:

  • Staying home to babysit

  • Work

  • Being tired

  • Travel/Vacation

  • Needed at home

  • Cold weather

  • Missed bus

  • Needing a language interpreter

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