How to write a letter to your child’s school to excuse an absence

Excusing a child’s absence from school can be done for various reasons such as sickness, family emergencies, or religious observances. Writing a letter to your child’s school to excuse an absence is a simple process that requires some essential information and formal language. In this article, we will discuss how to write a letter to your child’s school to excuse an absence in detail.

How?

Step 1: Know the policy of your child’s school

Before writing a letter to excuse your child’s absence, you need to understand your child’s school attendance policy. Different schools have varying policies and requirements for excused absences. Check the school website, student handbook, or communication with the school to understand the rules for reporting absences and what is considered an excused absence.

Step 2: Start with a formal salutation

In the letter, start with a formal salutation. Use the name of the principal or the individual to whom the letter is addressed (e.g., Dear Principal Smith or Dear Mrs. Jones).

Step 3: State the reason for absence

Provide a precise and valid reason for your child’s absence from school. Be specific about why your child was unable to attend school and mention the dates they were absent.

Step 4: Offer supporting documents

If possible, attach supporting documents to your letter explaining your child’s absence. This could include a medical certificate from a doctor or a letter from a family member in case of a family emergency.

Step 5: End the letter with gratitude

End the letter with gratitude and offer your apologies for any inconvenience caused. Thank the school for their time and consideration.

Why?

Writing a letter to excuse your child’s absence is essential because it helps the school keep track of student attendance and comply with the state’s attendance laws. It also ensures that your child’s schoolwork and academic progress are not negatively affected.

Or?

If you are unable to write a letter or do not feel comfortable writing one, some schools offer alternatives such as online forms, emails, or phone calls for parents to report their child’s absence to the school.

Who?

Other people, situations, things, and materials that may be relevant to writing a letter to excuse an absence from a child’s school include:

– Doctors or healthcare providers who can provide medical certificates or notes
– Family members or guardians who can explain family emergencies or other significant circumstances that caused the absence
– Online resources or templates that offer guidelines on how to write a letter of absence excuse

According to recent studies, regular school attendance is correlated with academic success. Missing school can lead to poor academic performance, reduced graduation rates, and a higher risk of dropping out. To promote regular attendance, some schools have implemented Attendance Review Teams (ART) that work with students and families to address attendance issues and offer support.

Additional Questions and Answers:

1. Can my child’s school refuse to excuse an absence?
Yes, if the reason for the absence is not valid or does not meet the school’s attendance policy.

2. Should I include personal details or reasons for my child’s absence in the letter?
Yes, you should provide a valid and specific reason for your child’s absence. However, avoid providing too many personal details that could lead to the disclosure of sensitive information.

3. Can I email or call the school to excuse my child’s absence?
Some schools may offer alternatives such as emails or phone calls for reporting absences. Check with your child’s school to confirm.

4. Will excused absences affect my child’s academic performance?
Excused absences will not negatively impact your child’s academic performance since schools are required to provide make-up assignments and academic support.

5. What is considered an excused absence?
Valid reasons for excused absences vary by school and state law. Common reasons include illness, medical appointments, family emergencies, religious observances, or court appearances.

6. Can I excuse my child’s absence after the fact?
Yes, if you have a valid reason for your child’s absence, you can write a letter and provide supporting documents after the absence.

7. How many days can my child be absent from school before it affects academic performance?
Studies show that missing ten percent or more of school days negatively impacts academic performance and increases the risk of dropping out.

8. Will excused absences affect my child’s attendance record?
Excused absences will not affect a student’s attendance record since they are considered valid and excused under the school’s attendance policy. However, unexcused absences may affect a student’s record and academic performance.

Sources:
– National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), « The Relationship Between School Attendance and Student Achievement. » May 2019.
– American School Counselor Association (ASCA), « Attendance and Student Achievement. » August 2021.
– Tennessee State Government, « Student Attendance in Tennessee. » 2021.
– North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, « School Attendance & Student Accounting Manual. » 2021.