We monitor attendance each day to verify when and why children are absent. A student is required by law to attend school. If they miss a school day or part of the day, for legitimate reasons, a parent or guardian must notify the school. A parent or guardian may seek an excused absence but the school administrator has the right to accept or deny an application for an excused absence.
Examples of excused absences include:
Sickness (a doctor's note may be required)
Medical or mental health appointments
Religious Holidays
Family Emergency
Examples of unexcused absences include:
- Missing the bus
- Need of sleep or rest
- Sporting Events
- Child is not immunized
If a child arrives after 10:00 a.m. or leaves school before 3:00 p.m. they will be considered absent for ½ of the day. Three unexcused tardies will be considered ½ day unexcused absence.
Vacations must be pre-approved by the building administration. Vacations may be considered unexcused if the family has been alerted to an attendance issue or if not preapproved by the building administration. Washington County recommends to school districts to excuse only up to 5 vacation days outside the established breaks in the school calendar. Schools are required to report excessive absences or 3 unexcused absences to Washington County.
We urge you to carefully consider circumstances that keep your child out of school. Regular school attendance is related to the degree of success in school. You will be notified when your child's attendance records indicate he/she has missed more than 10% of the school days in session. If the absences continue, a doctor's statement verifying that your child is not to be in school may be required.
Please call the absence line before 9:00 a.m. to report if your child will be late or absent.
Hugo Elementary
651-653-2621
Should we not hear from you by 10 a.m., it is our practice to call your home or work number to determine the whereabouts of your child.