When a student is absent, please report the absence by sending an email to Teacher’s Secretary, Kimberly Stewart at kimberly_stewart@hcpss.org or submit a written note to your child's homeroom teacher upon their return to school.
If a note is not received, the absence will remain documented as Truant. Please see the Student Handbook for more information. Schools need documentation from a parent to determine if an absence is lawful or truant.
What is the Difference Between Excused and Unexcused Absences?
Lawful Absence - An excused absence for any portion of the day under the following conditions:
- Illness of the student
- Death in the immediate family
- Court summons
- Observance of a religious holiday
- Hazardous weather conditions (as determined by the Superintendent)
- State emergency (as determined by the Governor)
- Lack of authorized transportation (school system transportation)
Unlawful Absence (Truant) - An unexcused absence for any reason other than those cited as lawful are presumed as unlawful and may constitute truancy. Students unlawfully absent are considered truant:
- Missed bus
- Car trouble
- Traffic
- No parking
Upon returning to school, the student must bring a written note signed by a parent/guardian citing the date of the absence and an explanation why the student could not attend school, or have previously emailed our Teacher’s Secretary, Kimberly Stewart at kimberly_stewart@hcpss.org
While a phone call is appreciated we must have in writing why your student is absent.