School attendance is crucial for students as it directly correlates with academic achievement, skill development, and social integration. Missing classroom instruction cannot be fully compensated, even with extra lessons or make-up work. Perry County School District will adhere to the guidelines outlined in MSBA Administrative Procedure JED-AP(1) and Policy JEA to support students and families struggling with attendance.
Monitoring Student Absences
To ensure consistent student engagement and support, all student absences are monitored, regardless of the number of days missed. While specific thresholds are not the sole determining factor, the following steps will begin when patterns of absence raise concern. The goal of these steps is to partner with families, identify potential barriers to attendance, and support students in maintaining regular participation in school.
Attendance Intervention Steps
Step 1: Administrator contacts the parent/guardian (e-mail, mail, or phone call) and/or meets with the student.
Step 2: Parent/guardian conference (include SRO) via phone or in person.
Step 3: Attendance Letter (e-mailed) & Mandatory in-person meeting (e.g., parent/guardian, SRO, Administrator, JO, and student)
Step 4: Referral to SRO and Juvenile Office
Step 5: Attendance Letter (e-mailed & certified), parent/guardian contact, referral to Children and Family Services
Step 6: Subsequent Absences - phone contact with parent/guardian and referral to School Resource Officer & Juvenile Office (possible court involvement/intervention)
*All steps are at the discretion of the building-level administrators.
Impact on Student Privileges and Academic Standing
Students who accumulate excessive absences—regardless of verification—may also lose the privilege of participating in extracurricular events such as field trips, dances, or other school-sponsored activities held before, during, or after school. Additionally, High school students may risk losing credit in one or more courses due to excessive absences. Please refer to the chart below for attendance-related grade reductions that apply to 6-12th grade students.
Semester Absences (Per Class) | Grade Reduction |
|---|---|
9 Absences | 5% |
10 Absences | 10% |
11 Absences | 15% |
12 Absences | 20% |
13 Absences | 25% |
14 Absences | 30% |
15 Absences | 50% |
Appeal Process
An appeal process is available for students and/or parents/guardians who disagree with the consequences resulting from excessive absences. To request a review, please contact the school principal or designated administrator. Each appeal will be considered individually and with careful consideration.