Attendance Matters!

Chronically absent students are defined as missing 15 or more days. Chronic absenteeism among students can have profound consequences. Here are a few key impacts:

1. Missed Learning Opportunities: Regular attendance is crucial for consistent learning and academic progress. Chronically absent students may fall behind in their studies, leading to lower academic achievement.

2. Social and Emotional Development: School is not just about academics; it's also a place for social interaction and emotional growth. Students who are frequently absent may miss out on building friendships, participating in group activities, and developing important social skills.

3. Teacher-Student Relationships: Consistent attendance allows students to build relationships with their teachers, who can provide support, guidance, and personalized instruction. Chronic absenteeism can hinder these relationships, making it harder for teachers to help students succeed.

4. Long-Term Consequences: Missing school frequently can have long-term consequences on a student's educational outcomes and future opportunities. It may impact their ability to graduate on time, pursue higher education, or enter the workforce prepared.

Addressing chronic absenteeism requires collaboration among educators, families, and communities to identify barriers to attendance and provide necessary support. Encouraging regular school attendance is essential for ensuring that all students have the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed academically and socially.

Chronic illness is a medical condition diagnosed by a physician. Chronic illness forms must be completed annually (each year). When your child is absent due to the chronic illness, the parent/guardian must submit a note that states the absence(s) is/are due to the chronic health condition. We realize that not all absences will be related to the chronic illness. Please remember the new attendance law states all excuses must be submitted within 3 days of the absence or the absence(s) will remain unexcused. We encourage parents/guardians to utilize the new attendance link to submit excuses.

When a child has a medical issue that prevents them from attending school, the family may work with the school and doctor to complete and submit a medical homebound request. Medical homebound forms are available at the school or central office. The new state policy has changed and now states the family must have a review and submit new doctor's order every three (3) months to remain on medical homebound.