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Important Attendance Information

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Important Attendance Information

We realize the last couple of years have been challenging for many, as we have all experienced the impacts of COVID-19. In addition, racial and social injustices that have been brought to the forefront. Flexibility and compassion have been key in managing these last few years.

We will continue to be flexible and compassionate, as well as keep families informed about processes that will impact them. The purpose of this letter is to ensure that you have the information regarding how unexcused absences are tracked and reported. Attendance is an essential part of a student's success, without consistent attendance the chances of students falling behind are substantial. Missing just 1 or 2 days every few weeks can put them behind in reading, math and social skills.

Absences can be excused for the following reasons: illness, family emergency, funeral, religious holidays, medical appointments. Transportations issues that are the school/agency issue will also be excused but not personal transportation issues. Absences will not be excused due to oversleeping, missing the bus/transportation, staying home to babysit, cold weather or not feeling like coming to school. Vacations are subject to approval by administrators. Below is detailed information about what happens as a result of ongoing unexcused absences:

  • Three Unexcused Absences: Families will receive a letter from the school informing them of the three unexcused absences and the attendance laws. This letter can be viewed as a reminder to call and excuse your child's absence and communicate with staff when other barriers arise that may keep your child from attending school.
  • Seven Unexcused Absences: School social workers must send a report to the Be@school program with Hennepin County. Be@school will send an informational letter along with resources to families.
  • Eight Excused Absences: After eight excused absences for illness, absences will be considered unexcused. If there is a chronic medical issue please see your social worker or the school nurse.
  • 12 Unexcused Absences: A second report will be filed. Be@school will assign a community agency to assist families with any barriers to school attendance; this is voluntary.
  • 17 Unexcused Absences: A third report will be filed. If families have not responded to outreach from the Be@school program or voluntary services, a referral will be made to child protection intake for truancy.

Most importantly, we are here to support students and families. Please connect with your school social worker if there are barriers to your child attending school.

Joey Corcoran (Mr. C), School Social Worker for General Education Students: 612-798-6450
Nicki Keen Dawolo (Mrs. KD), School Social Worker for students with IEPs: 612-798-6487
For Spanish: Elizabeth Rodriguez, Attendance Clerk: 612-798-6405

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