Attendance

All absences are recorded as unexcused until the student returns and provides documentation concerning the reason for the absence. The note should include the date(s) absent, the reason for the absence and the parent’s signature. Notes should be received within 48 hours of the student returning to school. There are specific reasons for excusing absences. Requests that fall outside the guidelines of district policy require the discretion of the principal; however, all excused absences outside the list provided should offer educational opportunities that are age appropriate for the student. Excused absences, as defined by Florida’s law, are limited to personal illness of the child, a doctor’s appointment, serious illness/death of a family member, or recognized holidays observed by the student’s faith. All other absences are unexcused unless approved by the principal in advance of the absence.