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Attendance

Why Attendance Matters

Consistent school attendance plays a vital role in student learning and long-term academic success. Missing just two days a month—whether excused or unexcused—adds up quickly and can result in students falling behind. In fact, students who are chronically absent (missing 10% or more of the school year) are at greater risk of struggling in reading by third grade, failing middle school classes, and ultimately dropping out in high school.

How Families Can Support Good Attendance

Parents and caregivers are essential partners in promoting regular attendance. Here are some simple strategies that can make a big difference:

Create a Routine

  • Set a consistent bedtime and morning routine.
  • Use an alarm clock and wake up early enough to avoid the morning rush.
  • Prepare the night before—lay out clothes, pack backpacks, and plan breakfast.

Plan Ahead

  • Schedule medical and dental appointments outside of school hours whenever possible.
  • Avoid taking vacations during the school year.
  • Keep a family calendar with school holidays, events, and important deadlines.

Build a Positive Mindset

  • Talk regularly with your child about the importance of attending school every day.
  • Celebrate improved or consistent attendance with praise or small rewards.
  • Encourage participation in school clubs, sports, or after-school programs.

Stay Involved and Informed

  • Maintain communication with your child’s teacher and school staff.
  • Let the school know if your child is going to be absent and why.
  • Reach out for support if your child is struggling academically, emotionally, or socially.
  • Review the contents of your child’s backpack weekly to ensure you don’t miss important notices or assignments.
     

Understanding Attendance Policies

Compulsory Education

California law requires that all children between the ages of 6 and 18 attend school regularly. If a student is habitually absent or has irregular attendance, the school may refer the family to the School Attendance Review Board or the county probation department.

Excused Absences

Excused absences include:

  • Illness
  • Medical or dental appointments
  • Funeral services of an immediate family member (Refer to Administrative Regulation 5113 for more details)
     

Truancy

A student is considered truant when they have three or more unexcused absences, or are more than 30 minutes late to school on three separate occasions without a valid excuse.

School Attendance Review Board (SARB)

SARB is a district-level team that meets with families to identify barriers to attendance and connect them with resources and support. The goal is to help students return to regular school attendance in a supportive and collaborative manner.

Consequences of Continued Absenteeism

If attendance issues continue after SARB involvement, legal consequences may follow, including referral to the District Attorney. While we strive to work with families to avoid this step, it is important to understand that attendance is not optional—it is a legal obligation.

Working Together for Student Success

Helping students develop good attendance habits is a team effort. When families and schools work together, students are more likely to feel supported, stay engaged, and succeed in the classroom. If you ever have questions or concerns about your child’s attendance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your school principal. We’re here to help—and we’re committed to partnering with you to ensure every student has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive every day.