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Attendance

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Excused Absences

Sometimes, it’s okay to miss school. These are some of the reasons that are allowed:

  • Going to a religious holiday that everyone in your church or religion must go to
    (Things like church camps or baptisms are not counted)

  • Going to court if your name is on the paper that says you have to be there

  • Helping as an election clerk (a helper during voting)

  • Going to a government office to work on becoming a U.S. citizen

  • Going to a ceremony to become a U.S. citizen

  • Playing "Taps" at a funeral for a military veteran in Texas

  • Going to the doctor

  • Visiting a college (only for students in 11th or 12th grade)

 

Other Times You Can Be Excused

You may also be excused if:

  • You go to the funeral of a close family member

  • You see a doctor (bring a note within 3 days)

  • You are in a school activity (like a game, trip, or event)

  • Your parent writes a note to excuse you
    (Only 3 parent notes are allowed each semester)

 

 
 
 

Unexcused Absences

Unexcused Absences

Some reasons are not okay for missing school. These include:

  • Taking care of a brother, sister, or parent

  • Not being signed up for school yet

  • Missing school because you are changing schools

  • Going on a trip or vacation with your family

 

What Happens If You Miss Too Much School Without a Good Reason

Parents are responsible if their child misses school for reasons that are not allowed—even if the child is 16 years old and skips without telling them.

If a student has:

  • 10 or more unexcused absences in six months, or

  • 3 unexcused absences in four weeks


…the school will send a letter to the parent. This letter says the child has missed too many days without a good reason.


Note: Being late to school or leaving early counts as missing part of the day.

 

What the Letter Means

The letter is a warning. It gives parents a chance to fix the problem.

If the problem is not fixed, the school may send a second warning. Then, the parent might have to go to court. Parents could be fined or get in trouble if the child misses more school without a good reason.