Student Handbook

 (see District Board Policy 3122 and 3122P)

●      Academic achievement is tied to good attendance. Students who are frequently absent – whether excused or unexcused – miss key components and essential academic practice.

●      Chronic absence is missing so much school that a student is academically at risk (Excused or Unexcused). Chronic absence is defined as missing 10 percent or more of school for any reason.

●      Students with excessive absences may be required to acquire a doctor’s note for each future absence or the absences would be deemed unexcused. The note from the doctor should include the reason for the absence and the dates of the absence. In lieu of a doctor’s note, parents/guardians may bring their student to school at the start of the school day to be assessed by school personnel.

●      Students are expected to attend all assigned classes each day.

●      Students are expected to make up assignments missed due to absences.

●      Teachers shall communicate to students the extent to which absences or lack of class participation may be reflected in course grades or credit (WAC 184.235).

●      See Parent Section for more info on Excused/Unexcused absences

 

In accordance with state law the following constitute valid excused absences:

●      Personal illness, health condition, or medical or dental appointment

●      Appearance in court when required by law

●      Disciplinary action, i.e., in-school, short-term, or long-term suspension

●      Religious observance

●      Family emergency, i.e., funeral, death, hospitalization

●      School-approved activities, i.e., field trips

●      Pre-arranged absence approved by administration

 

When a student is absent:

●      The parent/guardian emails the attendance secretary on or before the day of the absence. The email must include the student’s first and last name, the date(s) of the absence, and the reason for the absence.

●      If the parent/guardian was unable to email, the student brings a note from a parent/guardian to the Attendance Office following an absence. The note must include the student’s first and last name, the date(s) of the absence, and the reason for the absence.