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501.10 Truancy-Unexcused Absences

STUDENTS

501.10 - TRUANCY - UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

Policy Rescinded:  10/21/2024

See policy 503.09 and 503.9R1.  

 

 

 

 

Regular attendance by the students at school is essential for students to obtain the maximum opportunities from the education program.  Parents and students alike are encouraged to ensure an absence from school is a necessary absence.  Students will attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center.

Truancy is the failure to attend school for the minimum number of days established in the school calendar by the board.  Truancy is the act of being absent without a reasonable excuse.  These absences will  include, but not be limited to, tardiness, shopping, hunting, concerts, preparation or participation in parties and other celebrations, hair appointments, personal business, and employment.  Truancy will not be tolerated by the board.

Students are subject to disciplinary action for truancy including suspension and expulsion.  It is within the discretion of the principal to determine, in light of the circumstances, whether a student may make up work missed because of truancy. Students receiving special education services will not be assigned to supervised study hall, in-school suspension unless the goals and objectives of the student’s Individualized Education Program are capable of being met.

It is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.  The administrative regulations will  indicate the disciplinary action to be taken for truancy.

Legal Reference:         Iowa Code §§ 294.4; 299 (1995).

                                    281 I.A.C. 12.2(4).

Cross Reference:         206.3  Secretary

                                    410.5  Truancy Officer

                                    501    Student Attendance

                                    503    Student Discipline

                                    504    Student Activities

                                    506    Student Records

Approved:                   7/13/00

Reviewed:                   5/19/2015, 3/20/2023

Revised:                      03/24/10, 10/21/2024