Chronic Absenteeism Legislation Parents Need to Know
Dear Parents and Guardians,
We hope this message finds you well. We are writing to inform you about the new Iowa Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy Law, Senate File 2435, which took effect on July 1, 2024. This law aims to address and reduce chronic absenteeism and truancy in our schools, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically.
Key Points of the Law:
- Definition of Chronic Absenteeism: A student is considered chronically absent if they miss more than 10% of the school days within a grading period. For example, if a grading period consists of 60 days, missing 6 or more days would classify a student as chronically absent.
- Attendance Policies: Schools are now required to adopt specific attendance policies. These policies include tracking mechanisms and prevention processes to help identify and support students who are at risk of chronic absenteeism. The Grinnell-Newburg School Board approved these policies this past Wednesday evening.
- Collaboration with Authorities: If a student's absenteeism reaches certain thresholds, schools must collaborate with county attorneys, conduct school engagement meetings, and work with county truancy officers to address the issue.
- Exemptions: Certain absences, such as those for legitimate medical reasons, are exempt from being counted towards truancy. However, vacations are not considered exempt. Legitimate medical reasons are generally considered to be those that make a student unable to attend school for an extended period such as a significant health crisis or major surgery. Determination is made on a case-by-case basis.
- Legal Actions: In cases where absenteeism prevention plans are violated, legal actions may be taken. A student is considered truant if they are absent for at least 20% of the days or hours in a grading period, excluding certain exceptions.
Linked please find an infographic providing further highlights of the new law.
We understand that this new law may require adjustments for families. Our goal is to work together to ensure that all students attend school regularly and receive the support they need to succeed. If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.
Sincerely,
Lisa Beames
Superintendent
Grinnell-Newburg Community School District