In this section we'll feature different district policies or state laws that serve as the basis for a lot of the decisions/rules that schools follow. Generally, the state will pass legislation and the school district will create policy based on that legislation. The district has a policy committee that meets regularly with our superintendents to review new legislation and existing policy to make sure they are aligned. I think the title is linkable if not click here - District Policy Manual to take a look at all of them.
Attendance Policy, Part 1
This week, we will begin tacking the beast that is the Attendance Policy. We'll start the way the policy starts, which is which some definitions so that we proceed from a common understanding. Here are some terms you will hear us use in reference to your child's attendance. I'll highlight some of the things of which you may not be aware.
Absent
A student is considered absent if the student has missed fifty percent (50%) or more of the school
day based upon the hours of school at the elementary level and the number of periods at the
secondary level.
Attendance
The behavioral act of being present at school and attending classes. A student is considered absent
regardless of whether it is for an excused reason or designated as unexcused. Attendance is marked
in the student information system daily. (Remember, we have talked about the fact that while we mark absences as excused or unexcused, RIDE does not differentiate and records all absences as absences.)
Chronically Absent
A student who is absent ten percent (10%) or more of their days during the full school year.
Students that miss two or more days per month are on track to be chronically absent.
Excessively Absent
A student who is missing twenty percent (20%) or more of classes or school days for any reason.
Excused Absence
Excused absences do not count toward truancy but are still considered an absence. The
following reasons for an absence are considered excused with appropriate written
documentation, unless waived by the building administrator. For example;
● Note from a medical or healthcare provider
● Student’s participation in a school-sponsored activity
● Court appearance, summons or other dated court documentation
● Confirmation in writing from a college/university regarding a college visit
● Out-of-school suspension
● Death in the family
● Family emergency (Building administrator discretion)
● Religious holidays
Excused Tardy
A student will be considered to have an excused tardy when they enter the school building after the
designated arrival time due to any reason listed under the definition of an excused absence. (An example would be a doctor's appointment, but get a d0ctor's note, and we will document that.)
Early Dismissal
A student will be considered to have departed early from school when the student leaves the
building or class prior to the designated dismissal time. The early dismissal is considered excused due to any reason listed under the definition of an excused absence. (An example would be a doctor's appointment, but get a d0ctor's note, and we will document that.)
* Keep in mind that even with appointments, a child must be present for 50% or more of the school day.
Next week, we'll dive into what we are required to do when absences, tardies, or dismissals are over the limit.
Wellness Policy
Field Trip Policy
Dress Code Policy
Personal Electronic Device Policy
Elementary Handbook
