Attendance Definitions

Truant

Any child who is subject to compulsory attendance who has ten or more unexcused absences during a calendar school year.

Unexcused Absences

Occur when the student fails to attend school, with or without the knowledge of the parent/legal guardian, for reasons other than those specifically outlined as excused absences. 

Excused Absences may occur under the following circumstances:

• When a personal illness or attendance in school endangers a student’s health or the health of others. Documentation may be required within five days of student’s return to school.
• A serious illness or death in a student’s immediate family necessitating absence from school. Documentation may be required within five days of student’s return to school.
• A court order by a government agency, including pre-induction physical examinations for service in the Armed Forces mandating absence from school.
• Observing religious holidays which necessitate absence from school. In some instances, documentation may be requested.
• Conditions rendering attendance impossible or hazardous to student health or safety.
• An absence not to exceed one day for registering to vote.
• Out-of-school suspensions.
• Visiting with a parent or legal guardian prior to or during leave from deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting as a member of the Armed Forces or the National Guard (maximum of five school days per year).