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Attendance

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Regular school attendance is one of the strongest predictors of student success. When students are present each day, they gain access to meaningful instruction, collaborative learning experiences, and opportunities for personal growth that cannot be fully replicated outside the classroom. Every lesson, discussion, and activity plays a role in building the knowledge and skills students need to thrive.

Consistent attendance ensures that students remain engaged in their learning and connected to their school community. In New Jersey, the state also tracks chronic absenteeism, which is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year (approximately 18 days). It is important for families to understand that all absences count toward this total, regardless of whether they are excused or unexcused, as both result in missed instructional time. While excessive absences—particularly those that are unexcused—may impact academic progress and could result in the loss of course credit at the secondary level, the broader concern is the cumulative impact of time missed from the classroom.

Our district follows Board Policy/Regulation 5200, which outlines expectations for attendance, including definitions of excused and unexcused absences and the procedures for communication and intervention. We encourage families to review this policy to better understand these guidelines.

If a student must be absent, families should report the absence through PickUp Patrol (grades K-8) or the school attendance line (grades 9-12), ideally before the start of the school day. This helps us maintain accurate records and provide appropriate support.

We understand that unexpected situations can occur and are committed to working with families when they arise. At the same time, maintaining regular attendance is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed and make the most of their educational experience.

Procedures by School Level

For additional information on attendance requirements and best practices across the state, families are encouraged to visit the New Jersey Department of Education attendance resource page. This site provides guidance on state laws, the importance of regular attendance, and strategies to support student success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Excused vs. Unexcused Absences

Reporting & Letters From the School

Support & What You Can Do