Attendance
IF YOUR CHILD IS NOT HERE, THEY CANNOT LEARN WITH US (AND WE MISS THEM!)
It is so important that your student is in school every day, on time and not leaving early! Research shows repeated absences can have a negative impact on a student’s achievements and test scores. There is also a strong link between attendance and graduation rates. Our goal is for your student to be successful at school and beyond.
An accurate daily record is kept of all absences, tardies, and early departures. Total school attendance is a factor in the school accreditation process required by the state.
Students are required by state law to attend school regularly. Multiple unexcused absences may violate this law.
Marion Community Schools communicates with parents/guardians regarding absences. In short, after 5 absences, Marion Community Schools sends a letter to parents/guardians advising them of school attendance policy. At 8 absences, another letter is sent stating any further absences must be accompanied by appropriate documentation explaining the reason for the absence (i.e. doctor’s note).
At 10 unexcused absences, the case can be categorized as truancy and may be referred to the appropriate officials.
At the high school level, additional disciplinary consequences may be assigned beginning with 1 day missed, so that we can provide proactive support and prevent students from falling behind in credit-bearing courses, keeping them on track for graduation. In addition, Indiana law allows driver permits and licenses to be suspended or revoked due to habitual truancy. See the MHS Student Handbook for details (click here).
Unexcused absences are any that don't qualify as excused or exempt, as outlined below.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter. Together, we can help your student succeed.
What should I do if my student will be absent?
What types of absences are considered excused?
What types of absences are considered exempt?
What should I do if I have received an attendance call or letter?
What about tardies or partial day absences?
What if my student needs to miss school for an appointment?
Are students responsible for making up missed classwork?