Student success starts with daily attendance.

The Rochester City School District is committed to equitable education, empowering all students to reach their full potential. Consistent attendance is essential for this success.

In collaboration with RCSD staff, families, and the community, our Attendance Department implements strategies to support and encourage regular attendance. When students are present and engaged, they are more likely to succeed academically, graduate on time, and contribute to their community.

Join us in making attendance a priority and helping students thrive!

The Rochester City School District follows New York State Education Law and Board of Education policies to ensure students attend school regularly.

• Policies:
  • NYS Commissioner's Regulation - Section 104.1: Pupil Attendance Recordkeeping
  • 5100: Student Attendance and Withdrawal Policy
  • 5100-R: Student Absences, Excuses and Withdrawal Regulations
• Definitions:
  • Tardy: Arriving late for school or class
  • Truancy: Absence from school without a valid excuse
  • Chronic Absenteeism: Missing 10% or more of school days (excused or unexcused)
  • Excused Absences:
    • Child’s illness. A doctor’s note is required after 3 consecutive illness absences.
    • Doctor or Dentist Appointments
    • Sickness or death of an out-of-town family member for up to 3 days within New York State or five days outside the state
    • Court appearances
    • Religious observances
  • Unexcused Absences:
    • Oversleeping
    • Missing the bus
    • Family vacations
    • Leaving school early without permission
    • Skipping class
    • All unexplained or undocumented absences are considered to be Unexcused

• We understand that students may need to miss school occasionally. When this happens, families should follow these steps:

1. 1. Notify the School: Call your child’s school in advance of any planned absences or as soon as possible if your child will be absent, arriving late, or leaving early.  Find your school’s contact information here: School/Program Directory
   2. Provide Documentation: Written documentation (e.g., doctor’s note, court letter) should be submitted within three days of the absence to avoid being marked as unexcused.
   3. Monitor Attendance: Families can track their child’s attendance through the PowerSchool Parent Portal.

Interventions for Excessive Absences or Tardiness
To ensure students receive the support they need, schools follow a structured attendance intervention process:

1. Early Outreach: Teachers or school staff contact families after a pattern of absences emerges. (letters?)
2. Parent/Guardian Meetings: Schools may request a meeting to discuss attendance concerns and available support services.
3. Referral to Support Services: Families may be connected with counselors, social workers, or external community resources.
4. Formal Attendance Plan: If attendance does not improve, the school may develop a plan with the student and family.
5. Legal Steps (if necessary): In extreme cases, chronic absenteeism may lead to referrals to Child Protective Services (CPS) or legal consequences as required by state law.

• School-Based Support - Schools offer multiple layers of support to help address attendance barriers.
  
  • School attendance teams monitor student attendance and intervene early.
  • School Counselors and Social Workers provide academic, emotional, and mental health support.
  • Alternative learning options are available for students facing long-term attendance challenges.
• District-Wide Resources - RCSD offers several programs to assist families:
  • Families In Transition – Assisting families experiencing housing instability
  • Student Support Services – Providing interventions for at-risk students
  • Student Health Services – Addressing medical needs that impact attendance
• Community Resources - Families may also find support through local organizations:
  • 211/Lifeline  – Connecting families with health and social services
  • Community Mental Health Resources – Support for student and family well-being

• Tips for Good Attendance
  • Set a consistent bedtime and morning routine.
  • Schedule medical appointments outside of school hours when possible.
  • Plan vacations and travel during school breaks.
  • Communicate with the school about any attendance concerns or barriers.
  • Use the PowerSchool Parent Portal to track attendance in real time.