This is about Middle School and Absenteeism

compmom
Thu, 23 Jan 2014 09:27:25 +0000

I don’t think that this 15 day rule applies to absences for illness. One of mine was absent for many more days than that. They do have to make sure of the reason for the absences, however. One option would be for your child to go up to the school nurse’s office and get excused that way. Or go to the doctor when she is sick and get a note.

My child had a 504 plan because she had an identifiable chronic health condition, so it was a little different, but still, a child should stay home with a fever, for her sake and for the sake of others. Just make sure you somehow document the need.

Public school systems, like some pediatric hospitals, operate with a system that basically distrusts parents. It’s just a reality. The rules reflect that. Truancy is a problem that states and the feds are trying to address, and individual cases are not their concern. You can hire an advocate to go with you to a meeting if you feel upset by this. It can really help to have someone with you.

Your daughter’s grades prove that she is mastering the material despite absences. There is no way she is actually going to have to repeat.

The school faculty and administration also need to provide absent students with needed class information (homework, what was done in class), and your daughter should be meeting with staff for that. Faculty can then attest to her motivation and work ethic if need be.

Overall, this the letter is a bureaucratic requirement that will not apply to your child but you have to prove to them that she is absent due to illness. It will be fine.