Towson High School Newsletter
October 24, 2025
Dear Towson High School Community,
As we approach the holiday season and a number of scheduled half-days (Oct 31, Nov 14, and Nov 26), I want to remind all members of our THS learning community that attendance matters, and everyday counts. Our goal for all students is to have 94% attendance this school year. Here are a few notes about attendance:
- At Towson High School last school year, our 10th grade students who were not chronically absent (attendance rate of 90% or better), on average, passed their MCAP ELA 10 assessment with a score of a 3 (highest score is a 4). Alternatively, our 10th grade students who were chronically absent (attendance rate of less than 90%), on average, did not pass their MCAP ELA 10 assessment and scored a 2 (passing score is a 3).
- At Towson High School last school year, our 10th grade students who were not chronically absent, on average, earned scores that were 4.5% higher on BCPS assessments than their peers who were chronically absent.
- Students who want to get their learner's instructional driving permit before turning 16 years old must get school verification that their attendance record indicates no more than 10 unexcused absences duirng the prior school semester.
- Attendance on half-days is computed as a full day of school and contributes equally to students’ overall attendance rates.
- Research has shown that attendance is a leading predictor of academic achievement and adult success.
We understand that there are many reasons why students are absent from school. Please reach out to your student’s School Counselor, and/or review the “Attendance Matters” section below for more attendance-based resources if you need support with your student’s attendance.
In partnership,
Dr. Kim Culbertson
- October 25 - Homecoming Dance (see details below)
- October 31 - End of MP1
- October 31 - Senior Activities Day (see details below)
- October 31 - Schools Close 3-Hours Early for Students
- November 14 - Schools Close 3-Hours Early for Students
- November 19 - American Education Week Open House (for families of current students; see details below)
- November 26 - Schools & Offices Close 3-Hours Early for Students
- November 27 & 28 - Schools & Offices Closed
We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to all families of current studetns to our American Education Week Open House on Wednesday November 19. On Wednesday November 19, parents/guardians are invited to visit classrooms throughout the school day. Also, the PTSA will host a hospitality station and the Performing Arts Department will host musical performances. During Period 3, staff will host presentations in the Library to provide information and support to visiting parents/guardians. If you are planning to attend on November 19, please complete this RSVP form so that we can expedite your check-in: https://forms.gle/apjhs7zA9VJBGdfw5
Research has shown that attendance is a leading predictor of academic achievement and adult success. Students who find attending school important are more likely to attain goals like attending trade school, college, or getting a job. By showing up to school every day, students develop a positive work ethic and prepare for future success by developing healthy and productive habits.
Our attendance goals this year are for students to maintain at least a 94% attendance rate and to reduce chronic absenteeism. A student that misses 10% or more of school days in chronically absent. By missing just 2 days a month, a student will be chronically absent. Use the "Attendance Tracker" and "Parent Tips" below to support your student in maintaining satisfactory attendance. Additionally, we will send parents/guardians a "Weekly Attendance Report" each Friday afternoon so you can track your student's daily and period attendance.
Absent notes must be turned in within 5 days from the student returning to school. Please review the Towson High School 2025-2026 Operating Procedures document ("Attendance" section) for information on Absent notes, including how to submit them on FOCUS. Teachers are not required to provide makeup work for unexcused absences.
Attendance Tracker
Parent Tips
Weekly Reports
For the latest updates on the Towson High School Renovation/Addition Project, please click here. We are currently in Phase 1.
