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Attendance Policy
Attendance at Peninsula School District
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Understanding Truancy in Washington State
In Washington State, truancy refers to unexcused absences from school. Under state law (RCW 28A.225.010), all children ages 8-18 must attend school regularly. For students ages 6-7 who are enrolled in public school, parents must ensure regular attendance unless they formally withdraw their child.
When is a Student Considered "Truant"?
Under Washington state law (RCW 28A.225.030), a student is legally considered truant after:
- Seven (7) unexcused absences in any month, or
- Fifteen (15) unexcused absences during the school year
At this point, Peninsula School District is legally required to file a petition with the juvenile court alleging a violation of RCW 28A.225.010.
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Understanding Chronic Absenteeism
Chronic absenteeism means missing 10% or more of the school year for any reason - both excused and unexcused absences. For a typical 180-day school year, that's just two (2) days each month, or about 18 days total. Every school day shapes your child's educational journey, and we're here to support regular attendance.
Why Regular Attendance Matters
Research shows that consistent attendance directly impacts student success:
- Early grades: Students with regular attendance in kindergarten and first grade are more likely to read at grade level by third grade
- Middle school: Regular attendance strengthens social connections and academic foundations
- High school: Students with strong attendance are more likely to graduate and succeed in college or career training
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At Peninsula School District, we understand that situations arise that may prevent your student from attending school. Our goal is to support families while ensuring students receive the education they deserve. The following absences are considered excused when proper notification is provided to the school:
Health & Wellness
- Physical health symptoms or illness
- Mental health appointments or treatment
- Medical or dental appointments
- Counseling or behavioral health services
- Chronic health conditions
Family & Personal
- Family emergencies
- Religious or cultural observances
- Court proceedings or jury service
- Student safety concerns
- Military family-related activities
Educational Activities
- College or technical school visits
- Scholarship interviews
- State-recognized search and rescue
- School-approved activities
Special Circumstances
- Homelessness or foster care situations
- Migrant status
- Technology access issues
- Principal-approved activities
How to Notify the School
Please notify the school office of an absence:
- Morning of the absence when possible
- By phone, email, or written note
- Include the reason for absence
- Provide documentation if requested
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Understanding Unexcused Absences
At Peninsula School District, we're committed to working together to ensure your student's success. An absence is considered unexcused when:
- A student misses the majority of hours/periods in a school day without valid justification
- No parent/guardian notification is provided to the school
- The reason provided doesn't meet district criteria for excused absences
How We Support Your Student
We take a proactive approach to support regular attendance:
After 1 Unexcused Absence:
We'll contact you to ensure you're aware and offer initial support.
After 3 Unexcused Absences:
We'll schedule a conference to understand challenges and develop solutions together.
Between 2-7 Unexcused Absences:
We'll implement data-informed steps to support attendance improvement.
Available Support Services
Academic Support
- Course adjustments
- Individual instruction
- Alternative programs
- Make-up work assistance
Family Resources
- Family support services
- Transportation assistance
- Community resources
Working Together for Success
Early communication is key to preventing unexcused absences. Please contact us if:
- You need help reporting an absence
- Your family is experiencing challenges
- Your student needs additional support
- You have questions about attendance policies
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Early Support & Prevention
When We Reach Out:
- After first unexcused absence in a month
- Daily absence notifications to parents
- Regular attendance monitoring
How We Help:
- Phone, email, or written notifications
- Information in family's preferred language
- Initial support resources offered
Personalized Intervention & Support
When We Increase Support:
- After 3 unexcused absences in a month
- Between 2-7 unexcused absences
- Patterns of attendance concerns
Additional Support Options:
- Family conference to identify barriers
- Customized attendance success plans
- Connection to community resources
- Academic support services
Comprehensive Support Services
Enhanced Support Offered:
- After 7 unexcused absences in a month
- After 15 unexcused absences in a year
- Ongoing attendance challenges
Comprehensive Services Include:
- Community Engagement Board support
- WARNS assessment (middle/high school)
- Specialized education plans as needed
- Intensive family support services
Connect With Us Today
Our team is here to support your family's needs. Early communication is key to student success - please don't hesitate to reach out!
Attendance Tips
Communicate with the school: If your child experiences challenges that affect their attendance, please reach out to the school for support and resources. We are your partner and here to help you however we can.
Encourage a love of learning: Foster a positive attitude towards school and learning by engaging in educational activities with your child at home. If there are areas where your child’s school or academic experience can improve, we encourage you to speak with your school principal or educator.
Establish a consistent routine: Ensure your child gets enough sleep, eats a healthy breakfast, and has ample time to prepare for school each morning. If you need help with providing meals for your child or are in need of transportation, please contact your child’s principal.
Schedule appointments outside of school hours: Whenever possible, schedule doctor's appointments, dental check-ups, and other appointments during non-school hours. Even missing a half day of school for an appointment can be disruptive to your child’s academic experience.