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