Truancy Prevention

Your Student's Academic Success Begins With Attendance

Truancy is the result of UNEXCUSED absences.

An unexcused absence is whenever proper documentation (parent note, doctor note, etc.) has NOT been provided.
An unexcused absence can occur from missing one class period or the entire school day.
If an elementary student arrives after the "attendance accountability time" the student will be marked absent for the day.
- Attendance accountability times:
  - Mays Elementary = 9:30am
  - Troy Elementary = 9:45am

What should I do if my child is absent from school?

Provide proper documentation (parent note, doctor note, etc.) to the school office, located at the main entrance of each campus.
Parent notes will excuse up to 4 absences per semester.
Doctor notes should be provided for any medically-related visits (dental, vision, etc.).
Funerals - Parent note should be provided along with the memorial pamphlet/folder.
Signing out - Parent written note should be provided in order to excuse the absences for the remainder of the day.
All notes should be turned in within 5 to 10 days of the absence.

How will I be notified in my child has unexcused absences?

By school messenger (automated phone call/email) when your student is absent for one or more periods.
You will receive a "truancy warning letter" via mail after 3 unexcused absences within a 4-week period. (For this reason, it is important that you keep your telephone number and address current with the school office).
"It is YOUR responsibility to monitor YOUR child's attendance" (HB 2398 Sect. 25.093) through Parent Portal or you may call the secretary at your child's campus.

What happens when I receive a letter and my child continues to have unexcused absences?

Because Texas State Law requires a student to attend school, the parent/guardian is subject to prosecution for their truant/absent child under the age of 19. The criminal negligence charge is "parent contributing to non-attendance" (HB 2398 Sect. 25.093). This is considered a Class C misdemeanor punishable by fines ranging from $100 - $500 in addition to court costs/fees.
The driver's license of your student may also be blocked or suspended.
Your child (ages 12 - 18) is also subject to civil prosecution for: "failure to attend school". This may result in fines, court costs, and possible suspension of the student's driver's license.
A student in any grade level (K-12), may not be given credit or a final grade for a class unless the student is in attendance at least 90% of the days the class is offered. (Sect. 25.092).

Troy ISD Truancy Prevention Officer:

Sarah Stewart

(254) 938-7898