C7. Student Attendance

  • Policy Code: C7

    First Reading: March 8, 2022
    Adopted: March 22, 2022
    Adopted revisions: October 11, 2022 

    Policy

    It is the policy of the Essex Westford Educational Community Unified Union School District (EWECUUSD) to set high expectations for consistent student school attendance in accordance with Vermont law in order to facilitate and enhance student learning.  Students who are (i) children between the ages of six and 16 years who are residents of the district; (ii) non-resident pupils who enroll in district schools; and (iii) children over the age of 16 who are enrolled in a district school, are required to attend school for the full number of days that school is held unless they are excused from attendance as provided in state law.
     
    Definitions
    For the purpose of this policy, “truant” shall mean: 

    1. A student between the ages of six and sixteen years, who is not excused from school attendance and fails to enter school at the beginning of the academic year or, being enrolled, fails to attend school, or
    2. A student who is at least 16 years of age and is enrolled in public school and fails to attend, and is not excused from school attendance.

     

    A student may be excused from compulsory attendance if the student:
    Is mentally or physically unable to attend;

    1. Has completed the tenth grade and is not enrolled in public school;
    2. Is excused by the superintendent or a majority of the school directors; or
    3. Is enrolled in and attending a postsecondary school which is approved or
    4. accredited in Vermont or another state.

     

    Implementation
    Annually, the superintendent shall ensure that the school board appoints one or more individuals to serve as the truant officer and shall ensure that appointment is recorded with the clerk of the school district on or before July 3rd.


     
    Administrative Rules and Procedures
    The superintendent shall develop administrative rules and procedures to ensure the implementation of this policy. 

    The procedures will address the following issues:
    1.    written notice;
    2.    tardiness;
    3.    notification of parents/guardian;
    4.    signing out of school;
    5.    excessive absenteeism;
    6.    homebound and hospitalized students;
    7.    early dismissals;
    8.    homework assignments; and
    9.   making up work.

     

    The procedures may address other issues as well, including educational neglect.The procedures will also include consideration of global cultural events and religious traditions or celebrations. 


     
    Administrative Responsibilities
    The principal is responsible for maintaining accurate and up-to-date records of student attendance.
    The principal is responsible for assuring that the school has the appropriate family information that allows the school to contact the parent(s) or guardian(s) of all students whenever necessary.

    The principal will review attendance data at least monthly. 

    The principal will ensure that language services are made available to families requiring translation for attendance information including language interpretation of letters and meetings.
     



    Legal Reference(s):

    • 16 V.S.A. §§1121 et seq. (Attendance required)
    • 16 V.S.A. § 1125 (Truant officers)
    • VT State Board of Education Manual of Rules & Practices: §2120.8.3.3
    • Cross Reference:
    • Admission of Resident Students
    • Admission of Non-Resident Tuition Students