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Every Day in Attendance Counts

EVERY DAY COUNTS

When thinking about how many days your student is absent from school each year, it's important to know that every day they are out of the classroom counts as an absence. Whether they're gone for a family trip or home sick, they are missing learning in their classroom.

HOW CAN I EXCUSE MY STUDENT'S ABSENCE?

When a student is marked “AU” for Absent Unexcused, you will receive an automated phone call and email to notify you of the absence the evening of the absence. You can call or email the school within 48 hours to excuse the absence. Calling the front office (or dialing 0) can get you in touch with the front office to answer any specific questions you may have. 

If you know of an absence happening in advance, call or email the school or send your student to school with a note they can turn into the front office. Often teachers can have some materials prepared in advance for students who are leaving for absences arranged in advance. 

Please note: When considering regular attendance rates, any absence (including excused) is considered missing a day of school.

WHAT COUNTS AS BEING ABSENT VERSUS BEING LATE?

Elementary Schools

Half-Day Absence:

  • Missing more than 60 minutes of the school day

Full-Day Absence:

  • Missing more than one-half of the school day

Secondary Schools

Class Absence:

  • 10 minutes or more late to class
  • Missed class
  • Leaving class more than 10 minutes before the end

Full-Day Absence:

  • Missing 50% or more of scheduled classes in a day
  • 3 cumulative single class absences