Parent(s)/guardian(s) and students aged 18 and older and students who have declared their independence must report all absences, late arrivals and/or changes to departure plans to the school in a timely manner. Where possible, notify the school in advance by calling the school and leaving a message on the attendance voicemail (905) 850-5012 ext.101 or by emailing emilycarrss.attendance@yrdsb.ca.
Absences should be both valid and authorized. Examples of valid reasons are: illness, bereavement, medical appointments, and court appearance, to name a few. All absences should be authorized by a parent or guardian. Absences not authorized are considered truancies. Students who have excused absences due to field trips, sports events, and school activities will be considered to be “in attendance” at school although they may not be physically in the building. An automated voice-messaging and e-mail system is used daily to contact parents and caregivers of students with unexplained absences. Students who have been signed out of classes by a parent or guardian cannot remain on school property.
Consequences
Consequences for students who dishonour this policy can include, but are not limited to: teacher-student discussion; parent or guardian contact; detention with teacher; loss of privileges; journaling or written reflection; referral to office; meeting with parents or guardians; office assigned detention; class withdrawal; referral to school social worker; removal from course or withdrawal from school.
Students who are 18 years of age or older
Students who are 18 years of age or older are expected to follow the attendance procedures as outlined. They must also call the attendance secretary and indicate when they will be absent. Furthermore, they will have five sign out privileges per semester. Administrator approval must be obtained for additional sign-outs.
Safe Arrival and Departure Program
The safety of our students is a priority. Our safe arrivals programs and safe departures protocols are in place so that we can account for the whereabouts of absent students. Please provide the school with complete and current emergency contact information.
Extended Absences
Planned absences of five or more consecutive days require the completion of an “Extended Absence/Leave” form at least one week in advance of the leave. The form is available in the Main Office at the Attendance Desk. The process includes obtaining signatures from teachers, parent/guardian, and a school administrator. It is the student’s responsibility to catch-up on all work missed.