An unexcused absence “that counts toward truancy” is a student’s absence from school for a full or a portion of a day for any reason that is not an “excused absence” (see Absences). Truancy results when a student:
- is present in the building without properly signing in, or
- is away from school for reasons other than those listed as excused by the Board of Education.
A student is considered truant if he/she has accumulated ten (10) or more unexcused absences. Unexcused tardiness may constitute an unexcused absence that counts toward truancy (see Lateness).
Discipline Guidelines for Truancy
- First Offense: 3 extended detentions, phone notification to parents/guardian.
- Second Offense: 2 days of In-School Suspension. Referral to Guidance Counselor and Child Study Team; written notification to parents/guardian with a copy of the law.
- Third Offense: 3 days of In-School Suspension. Notification to authorities for legal action.
