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Attendance Policies

The Compulsory Attendance Law of the State of Washington requires accountability from parents and schools regarding student attendance.  The law, named The Becca Bill, helps schools achieve improved school attendance and the reduction of unexcused absences and tardies.

 

EXCUSED ABSENCES AND TARDIES

Under district policy, an excused absence or tardy in one which the family, by call or note, presents an acceptable reason for non-attendance within two days of the child’s return.  Acceptable reasons include:

  • Illness
  • Medical, Dental, or other appointment that cannot be scheduled outside of the school day
  • Recognized religious observances
  • Family emergency, such as funeral or birth
  • A prearranged absence by completing form in office and approved by administrator.

These criteria guide schools in determining what is an excusable absence or tardy.  It is important to note that a parent simply excusing a child’s absence or tardy does not make it excused under district policy and state law.  Not included are absences or tardies for reasons that may be detrimental to student learning. Absences above 10 days may not be excused without a note from a physician.   If your child has excessive absences, excused or unexcused, you will receive a request to meet with administration.

FAMILY VACATIONS

We know that all family vacations may not fall during scheduled breaks and may require time away from school.  Families will need to complete a Vacation Approval Request Form which can be found in the office or sent home upon request.  

EARLY DISMISSALS

We discourage early dismissals during school hours, but understand that sometimes a child may have a doctor, dental or other appointment that cannot be scheduled outside of school hours.  Please come to the office, not the classroom, to sign out your student. Please allow for extra time as your student may be at recess or in a specialist class and it may take longer to gather their backpack.  Children will only be released to parent, guardian, or other adults who are designated as emergency contacts on the registration forms. If someone not on those lists will be picking up your child, we must be notified in the office.