All students are responsible for being in class by 7:45 a.m. The only time students will be administratively excused is if the bus is late, as reported by the transportation department. In addition, students who arrive late may be excused for good cause shown, including medical and dental appointments that cannot be scheduled outside the school day, medical disability, a motor vehicle driver’s test, interviews for college entrance or employment, and court appearances. For any of these excused reasons for lateness, verification must be provided in the same manner as for excused absences (see Absences).
An accumulation of three (3) unexcused late arrivals to class will equal an absence under the Attendance Policy.
Students who arrive after 7:45 a.m. must scan into the building with their school-issued ID at the security desk at the front entrance or the back/courtyard entrance. Students who are late for unexcused reasons can be considered truant. (See also Truancy.) Students who are late for good cause and wish to be marked excused should report immediately to the Attendance Office with their verifying documentation from the medical office, Motor Vehicle Agency, etc (see above).
- Consequences and Interventions for Unexcused Absences/Truancy:
- Up to four (4) unexcused absences: The school will attempt to notify parents, determine the cause, and identify actions to address the pattern of absences.
- Five to nine (5-9) unexcused absences (specifically seven (7) or more in regulation): The school will continue to notify parents, evaluate prior actions, and develop an Amnesty-Action plan. This plan may involve referrals to intervention teams, assessments, alternative placements, community resources, or even court referral for violations of compulsory education law or evidence of a juvenile-family crisis.
- Ten (10) or more cumulative unexcused absences: The student (ages 6-16) is considered truant. The district will determine the need for a court referral, continue to consult with parents, and cooperate with law enforcement. Parents may face fines (up to $25 for first offense, $100 for subsequent offenses) and court appearances. Attendance officers have police power to enforce these provisions.
