What are Lawful Absences?

• Student illness, where attendance would endanger the students health or the health of others
• Death or serious illness in immediate family
• Recognized religious holiday of student's faith
• Activities approved in advance by the principal

What are Unlawful Absences?

• Skipping school without parent permission
• Missing school without an acceptable reason
• Family trips/vacation
• Any absence not covered under lawful absence list

What are Some of the Consequences of Unlawful Absences?

• Letters to parents notifying them of the number of days student has been absent
• Conference with parent to complete an intervention plan
• Referral to appropriate agencies
• Home visit by school official
• Court action
• Possible failure or loss of credits

Is It Important to Send a Note when my Child is Absent?

Absolutely! When a student is absent from school he/she must present a written excuse signed by a parent/guardian. If the excuse is not presented within three days of the students return, and if it doesn’t meet definition of lawful absence, it will be recorded as unlawful.