Absences

Absence from school shall be classified as either an excused absence or unexcused absence/truancy.

Excused Absences

An absence is granted for personal illness or injury, serious family illness, quarantine, death in the family, or absences which are due to extraordinary or unusual circumstances, after the parent/guardian provides notification of the dates and reasons for the missed days. Suspension from school is an excused absence. Court appearance, religious observance and school-related field trips are also excused absences. It shall be the responsibility of the parent and/or student to schedule medical, dental, or legal appointments during non-school hours whenever possible. However, if attending a medical appointment, bring verification from the medical provider. Excused absences shall not be permitted if deemed to cause a serious adverse effect upon the student’s educational progress. (RCW 28A.225.010 (d))

Certain educational experiences are unique and it may not be possible to replicate them. An alternative assignment of equal value may be provided if possible. Make-up work will be provided by the teacher for an excused absence at the request of the student or parent/guardian.

Excused absences shall require notification from the parent or guardian by phone or written note within 48 hours of the student’s return to school.

If you are late to school or have been absent, please bring a note from your parent/guardian to the attendance office when you enter the building. All absences will be considered unexcused until excused by a parent/guardian. Please call the attendance office regarding any questions about absence.

Unexcused Absences (Truancy)

Students are expected to attend assemblies, class meetings, and all scheduled classes or events each day. A student whose absence is not excused shall experience the school consequences of his/her unexcused absence, and teachers are not obligated to provide make-up work. A student is considered truant who misses any or all of a school day without the school’s permission and without the parent’s prior knowledge.

Pre-arranged Absences

In some cases, certain experiences may provide students with valuable educational exposure, which the school cannot duplicate and should not be denied the student. In all such cases, prior arrangements with the school, a minimum of 24 hours, are to be made for the length of the absence and the student is required to complete coursework for credit or grade.