Being a good student starts with good attendance-you can’t succeed if you don’t show up. In fact, good attendance is important in every aspect of life, whether it’s school, work, sports, club activities, church events or anything.

Showing up when you’re supposed to lets others know you’re responsible and take your work seriously. And that’s important to being a good student, a good employee, and a good citizen.

Of course, attendance is just one requirement for a good education. Paying attention, participating in class, studying, completing assignments, and working hard are essential. But in order to do well in school, you must first make sure you are in school.

Because student attendance in school is so important, the Rochester Board of Education in 1998 adopted an Attendance/Participation Policy which applies to all students in grade 6-12.

The policy requires students to maintain a minimum level of attendance in each class, each marking period, to be eligible for a passing grade. The minimum level of attendance is 93% (167 days)

If your attendance falls below the minimum level in any class, you will receive an "F" in that class for that marking period. Of course, all students are expected to strive for 100% attendance, not just the minimum.

What types of absences will be counted?

All absences will be counted against the minimum attendance requirement, regardless of whether your parent or guardian notifies the school. This includes absences due to illness, doctor’s appointments, etc., as well as unexcused absences. However, parents are still expected to notify the school when you are absent.

An absence will not be counted against the minimum requirement if you make up all missed work within 10 school days after returning to school, and if that work is of an acceptable quality. It is your responsibility to contact your teachers regarding missed work.

District officials will notify your parent or guardian when you are absent three times in one marking period. This is a signal that you may be in danger of falling below the minimum requirement.

If you have any questions about this policy, please see your teacher or guidance counselor.