Ready to help your child succeed in school? Start by helping reinforce the importance of good attendance habits. Regular attendance is directly linked to higher academic achievement and helps prepare students to become Future Ready Graduates.
Showing up every day, ready to engage in learning, is not just best practice. The Commonwealth of Virginia Attendance Code requires that all children between the ages of five and eighteen attend school every day, all day. The law also requires schools to record student attendance whenever school is in session.
We understand there are times students cannot be in school. Absences may be excused for:
Families should report their student’s absences to the school any day students are unable to attend.
If your child will be absent, please let your child’s school know that day. You can report student absences by using an online form, emailing the school's attendance office, or sending a written note to school. You can access the online form on the YCSD mobile app, or on your child's school website.
Missing 2 to 3 days a month adds up, even when absences are excused. Students who miss 10 percent or more of the school year are considered chronically absent. To help keep students on track for good attendance, schools will:
School Action Steps for Student Absences
5 Unexcused Absences
An attendance letter is sent home and an attendance plan is developed.
6 Unexcused Absences
The school truancy team will meet to review the plan and consider additional interventions.
10 Unexcused Absences
The division truancy officer will meet with the family and school-based truancy team to discuss the attendance improvement plan and a court referral may be submitted.
Every day counts. By working together as families, students, and schools, we can ensure every student is supported, engaged, and ready for a successful future.