White Creek Lutheran School
			16270 S. 300 W. | Columbus, IN (812) 342-3516 & (812) 342-6832
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ATTENDANCE POLICY

School attendance is critical to a student’s ability to derive the full benefits provided in the school.  Maximum learning occurs through teacher instruction, class participation, and interaction among students.  Therefore, any school absence, excused or unexcused, places the student at a disadvantage.  Regular school attendance further prepares students to assume their roles as productive members of the work force and society.

Students are subject to the requirements of state law and school attendance policies.  Fulfilling the requirements of the law and policies is the responsibility of the students and their parent(s) / guardian(s).

A student who is absent from school, whether such absence is excused or unexcused, is expected to independently make up any work missed during such absence.  Students will not receive academic credit missed during an unexcused absence.

Excused Absences:  Students may be absent from school for the following reasons:
1. Illness or injury requiring absence.
2. Death of immediate family member.
3. Death of another person when requested by parent or guardian (subject to approval by    the principal).
4. School activities approved by the principal.
5. Confirmed medical/dental appointments.
6. When subpoenaed to appear in court as a witness in a judicial proceeding.
7. Service as a legislative page in the Indiana General Assembly.
8. Worker on election day.

It is believed that ten (10) days of absence during a school year, except in the cases of extended illnesses or unusual circumstances, is excessive.

1. A doctor’s excuse stating that the child is physically unable to attend class may be required by the school, for each absence, after ten (10) days of absences per school year to receive an excused absence.  Failure to comply with this regulation upon request may result in the loss of credits and/or failure.
2. A student absent from school is also unable to participate in athletics or social events the same day, except on special excused absences.
3. The school should be called by 8:00 a.m. stating the reason for student absence.  If a phone is not available, the parent/guardian is to send a note explaining the reason for absence upon the child’s return to school.
4. In the event of excessive absences the parents will be sent written notice.
5. Every effort should be made to see that doctor and dental appointments are made on
non-school time.  (Orthodontic appointments are an exception.)
6. If due to inclement road conditions, a school bus cannot make its regular stop to pick up a student, that student will be counted present at school.  The student will be responsible for making up missed work.
7. If during inclement weather, a school bus runs and does make its regular stop, but a student’s parent deems it necessary to keep the student home, the absence will be counted and work must be made up.