Attendance Policy
ONC BOCES Student Attendance Policy Summary
Why Attendance Matters:
Regular attendance in school is essential for student success. ONC BOCES follows this policy to help students stay on track academically, meet New York State Learning Standards, and successfully complete their education.
Goals of the Attendance Policy:
Increase student graduation rates.
Improve student achievement and close learning gaps.
Identify and address attendance patterns.
Ensure schools know where students are during the school day.
Comply with attendance laws.
Keep accurate attendance records.
How ONC BOCES Supports Good Attendance:
Creating positive and engaging learning environments.
Tracking attendance carefully and identifying issues early.
Developing plans to improve attendance for students who struggle.
Working with families, teachers, and school administrators to encourage regular attendance.
Responsibilities:
Parents/Guardians: Ensure students attend school regularly and provide written excuses for any absences within 5 days of the absences. Keep contact information up to date.
Students: Attend classes on time and be prepared to learn.
Excused vs. Unexcused Absences:
Excused Absences: Illness, family emergencies, court appearances, college visits (approved), medical appointments, military duties, religious observances, or other approved reasons.
Unexcused Absences: Any absence without a valid reason, such as skipping school or vacation.
Tracking Attendance:
Attendance is recorded each day (for younger students) or each class period (for older students).
Attendance data is reviewed regularly to find and address attendance problems.
Parents are notified in writing when students reach 5, 10, or 15 absences. Meetings may be scheduled to discuss concerns.
Consequences for Poor Attendance:
Possible loss of course credit (determined by the home school district).
Restrictions on participating in school activities, internships, or driving privileges.
Rewards for Good Attendance:
Recognition through awards and ceremonies.
Other incentives to encourage consistent attendance.
Appeals & Reviews:
Parents can request a review of their child’s attendance record if there is a concern.
School staff regularly review attendance data to make improvements.
Community Awareness:
Parents receive a summary of this policy at the start of each school year.
Teachers receive copies of the policy when they begin working at ONC BOCES.
The policy is available to the community upon request.
This policy ensures that students, families, and schools work together to support consistent attendance and student success.