JH-R: Unexcused and Excessive Excused Absences — Process

School Administration:

After three days absent (unexcused) no matter what grade, a letter is sent to the parent/guardian.  This letter refers to:

New Hampshire state law, RSA 193:1 Duty of Parent; Compulsory Attendance by Pupil…requires:

A parent of any child at least 6 years of age and under 18 years of age shall cause such child to attend school … Such child shall attend full time when school is in session unless: [the child] has been temporarily excused upon the request of the parent for purposes agreed upon by the school authorities and the parent. Such excused absences shall not be permitted if they cause a serious adverse effect upon the student’s educational progress.

After fifth unexcused absence, five-day letter is sent to request a meeting with the parent/guardian.

  • Meeting with parents and developing a plan:

–  Elementary:  School Social Worker, School Counselor and/or principal (K-4), Special Education Coordinator (if special ed.), & Principal/Building Administrator

– Middle school: (5-8) Special Education Coordinator (if special ed.) & Principal/Building Administrator

– High School:  School Counselor, Student Support Counselor, Special Education Administrator (if special ed.)

All letters and plans need to be copied to the Director of Student Services.

If absenteeism continues:

    1. Second meeting with parents/guardian.
    2. Adjust plan as necessary for one calendar month and inform parents of next steps.
    3. If the plan is still not working, the “team” and parents need to meet with the Assistant Superintendent and Director of Student Services.

Process for Excessive Excused Absences:

Five consecutive days requires a doctor’s note (if there is no note, the absences become unexcused and the unexcused process is followed).

Cumulative days require:

1.  15 days excused absences (cumulative) – request a meeting.

2.  25 days excused absences (cumulative) – Assistant Superintendent and Director of Student Services will contact parent/guardian via letter to schedule a meeting.

12/20/19