Who sets these attendance policies?
The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) establishes the attendance rules and guidelines that districts must follow. Schools and districts are required to implement these policies, but they do not create them. If you have feedback on state attendance laws, we encourage you to contact your local legislators.
Why does the school send attendance letters?
Attendance letters are required by state law. Schools must notify families when absences (excused or unexcused) approach a specific threshold, regardless of the reason. This is part of the state’s effort to ensure students are regularly attending school and receiving the education they need. Families are not always aware when their child is missing school, particularly at the high school level - this is one way to ensure that families are informed of their child’s attendance. Learn more about attendance letters below.
Why are the letters worded so strongly?
The language in attendance letters follows state guidelines and is not determined by individual schools. The intent is to inform families of the potential impacts of absences, not to threaten or punish. Schools recognize that many absences are unavoidable and will work with families on a case-by-case basis. Our ultimate goal is to partner with families to support positive school attendance.
My child was sick—why are we getting these letters?
We understand that illnesses happen, and we encourage families to keep sick children home to prevent the spread of illness. Even when absences are for valid reasons, schools are required to notify families when absences reach a certain level. When a student has reached 7 excused absences, a letter is automatically generated and sent to families. This is one communication tool that the district uses to inform families of approaching attendance concerns.
What should I do if I disagree with the letter or feel it’s unfair?
We encourage you to reach out to your School Principal or Attendance Coordinator to discuss your concerns. They can clarify the policy, review your child’s attendance record, and work with you to address any challenges.
Do I need a doctor’s note for every absence?
Per district policy, students are allowed up to 10 excused absences over the course of the school year. We realize that there are situations where a students’ absences may extend beyond that threshold. Schools work to partner with families in these situations. There are other circumstances where families would be required to provide a doctor’s note for absences once a certain threshold has been met. This is determined on a case-by-case basis. While doctor’s notes are not always required, it is helpful to provide them to the school for appointments or extended absences - this allows for your child’s absence to be medically excused, and will not count toward any attendance letters.
Do excused absences count toward truancy?
No, only unexcused absences count towards truancy. The state of Wisconsin defines habitual truancy as missing all or part of five days in a semester when an excuse has not been provided by the parent or guardian. This is why it is so important to always contact the school to report an absence for your child. Find the Absence Request Process below.
How do attendance policies relate to state funding?
School funding is related to student enrollment numbers, which is different than daily attendance. We encourage regular attendance, as we know that it directly correlates to academic achievement - however, student attendance is not directly tied to state funding.
How can schools better support families with attendance challenges?
We understand that each family’s situation is unique. If you’re facing challenges related to your child’s attendance, such as health issues or family emergencies, please contact your school. We want to partner with you to support your child’s success. Find tips for families here.
