Truancy

School Success BEGINS With Attendance

Truancy is a result of UNEXCUSED absences.

An unexcused absence is when proper documentation (parent, medical note, etc.) has not been provided.
An unexcused absence can result from missing one period or an entire day.
If an elementary student arrives after the “attendance accountability time” they will be marked absent for the day.

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

Provide proper documentation (note) to the attendance office located at the main entrance.
Provide a parent note (3 parent notes per semester will be excused, all additional parent notes will be coded unexcused).
Doctor note (eye, dental, etc.) Provide only ORIGINAL note, no copies.
Funerals – Provide parent note accompanied by the memorial folder.
If you sign your student out for any reason you must still provide a written note for the remainder of that day in order for the absence to be excused.
All notes should be turned in within 5 days of the absence.

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

By school messenger (automated phone call) when your student is absent for even one period.
You will receive a “truancy warning letter” by mail upon 3 unexcused absences within a 4 week period. (It is extremely important that you keep your telephone number and address current with the school.)
“It is YOUR responsibility to monitor YOUR child’s attendance” (HB 2398 Sect. 25.093) through Family Access or you may call the attendance clerk 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 child under age 19. The criminal negligence charge is: “parent contributing to non-attendance.” (HB 2398 Sect. 25.093). This is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by fines ranging from $100 - $500 plus court costs. The driver’s license of the student may also be blocked or suspended.
Your child (aged 12 – 18) is also subject to civil prosecution for: “failure to attend school”. This may result in fines, court cost and possible suspension of the student’s driver’s license.
In addition, 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)

TISD Truancy Officers: