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REMINDER ABOUT ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES IN THE GLENDALE-RIVER HILLS SCHOOL DISTRICT

Getting into the habit of daily attendance is more important than ever. Nationwide, it is estimated that chronic absenteeism has doubled from pre-COVID-19 attendance rates (AttendanceWorks.org).  Regular, on-time attendance to school helps to:  

  • reduce stress
  • make it easier to connect with friends and teachers
  • support learning and academic gains

Missing just two days of school per month can negatively impact a child’s progress in reading and their pathway to graduation (AttendanceWorks.org).  Therefore, a student may be excused from school by the parent/guardian for not more than ten (10) days in the school year  (118.15(3)(c)).  Medically excused absences (excuses from a doctor, mental health provider, dentist, etc.) may not be counted as part of these 10 days.  

Focusing on attendance in the district aligns with the Glendale River Hills Mission and Vision Equity Commitment:  We close educational opportunity gaps by increasing access and opportunity for all students.   We maintain high expectations for all students and staff.   The district has reestablished attendance processes for school staff, families, and students to ensure alignment with the Wisconsin State Statute and  GDRH’s Board Policy (po5200). We also want to ensure you are aware of the Glendale-River Hills attendance procedures in the event you receive a letter or phone call from your child’s school.

  • Parents/guardians are sent a letter after their child has accrued 5 or more days (or 50 class periods) of excused absences.
  •  In accordance with state law, 118.15(3)(c), a parent/guardian cannot exceed 10 days per school year of excusing their student.  Parents/guardians are sent a letter after their child has 10 or more days of excused absences.  At this point, any further absences will require medical excuses. If medical excuses are not received, the student will be marked unexcused.
  • If a student has 5 or more days of unexcused absences in a semester, we notify parents/guardians via letter that this attendance meets the criteria for habitual truancy.  The school principal will request a meeting with the parent/guardian per State Statute 118.16(2)(cg).  At this meeting, any barriers to attendance are problem-solved to improve attendance for the remainder of the year.

At home, you can help your child get to school each day by:

  • Communicate with your school attendance office any time your child may be late or absent.
  • Scheduling medical and dental appointments after school or during teacher work days when possible.
  • Provide the school office with medical excuses anytime your child misses school for a medical appointment.
  • If your child is ill, please refer to the following guidelines (Source: WI Department of Health Services Childhood Communicable Diseases)
  • Fever (100° or higher) - must be resolved for 24 hours (without aid of medication) before returning to school
  • Diarrhea - must be resolved for 24 hours before returning to school 
  • Vomiting due to illness - must be resolved for 24 hours before returning to school.

 

We are working to ensure each school environment is a place where everyone can be safe, healthy, and learning.  We will do our best to listen and partner with you so that your children have a successful year.