Attendance Matters
DID YOU KNOW?
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Research shows students should miss no more than nine days of school each year to stay engaged, successful, and on track to graduate.
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One of every seven District 196 students misses two or more days of school per month, nearly 20 days (10%) of the school year.
CHILDREN THRIVE WHEN THEY ARE AT SCHOOL
Regular attendance helps students enjoy school more and feel connected to their community. It also boosts academic performance and enhances social skills.
ACADEMIC SUCCESS
- Higher grades
- Increased chance of graduating
- Hands-on/collaborative learning
- Better access to academic support
SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL SKILLS
- Forming friendships
- Developing emotional skills (empathy, patience, confidence, teamwork)
- Enhancing communication skills
HELP YOUR STUDENT SUCCEED
- Discuss the importance of showing up on-time each day.
- Maintain routines, limit technology, ensure good sleep.
- Avoid appointments during the school day.
- Encourage participation in school activities.
- Ensure every class period is attended.
- Talk with your school to learn about support options!
District 196 is committed to improving student attendance. Parents will be contacted if their child's attendance becomes concerning.
In accordance with District Policy 503.2AR, students are expected to attend class every day, with the exception of school-authorized and verified absences. Excessive absences may have adverse consequences.
It is important to understand the consequences that occur and processes we will follow when students are absent from school. Our goal is, as always, is to ensure that your child has the best opportunity to thrive.
ABSENCES
Whenever a student is absent, parents/guardians should report the absence through Campus Parent (preferred) or call the AVHS Attendance Line at 952-431-8299 before 1:00 p.m.
If students arrive late or leave early, parents/guardians must notify the school. Students are required to check in and out at the Attendance Window and obtain an admit.
Types of Absences
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Excused (count towards chronic absenteeism): illness, medical/dental appointments, pre-approved family trips, religious holiday, school-authorized circumstances.
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Exempt (do not count): state testing, field trips, school-sponsored activities.
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Unexcused (count towards chronic absenteeism and may have consequences): no parent verification, skipping class, leaving without permission, oversleeping, car trouble, unapproved travel.
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There are no school-sanctioned “skip” days.
Chronic Absenteeism
Missing more than 10% of school days (6+ days per trimester or 18+ days per year) is considered chronic absenteeism by the State of Minnesota. Even with make-up work, classroom learning cannot be fully replaced.
Intervention Steps for Multiple Absences
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5 absences - Teachers will contact families via ParentSquare.
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7 absences - Student Support Office contacts family.
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10 absences - Administrator reviews, meets with family, determines next steps. Students may lose credit (“NC”) for a class at 10 absences. Truancy may also be reported to the county.
WHEN YOUR STUDENT NEEDS TO BE ABSENT
You must report all absences:
- Report the absence in Campus Parent
- If you cannot use Campus, then call the AVHS Absence Voicemail 952-431-8299
- Please be sure to say student's first and last name, spelling the last name, the student's grade, date of absence and reason for absence. Also leave a telephone number where you may be contacted.
- message cocurricular coaches/advisors to let them know your student will be absent.
Stay on track:
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Check Schoology for homework updates.
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Communicate with teachers and classmates to make up for missed work.