Attendance/Tardies
Tardy students:
If a student arrives to school at 8:05 am or later, the parent/guardian must park their car and come into the office to sign the student in, the student will get a tardy pass and report to class. It is very important that a parent/guardian sign your child in so the absence can be changed to a tardy, otherwise it will stay marked as an absence.
Absences:
When your student is absent, please call the office or you can report the absence through your ParentVUE account. When your child returns to school, please send a Doctor’s note or signed parent note as to the nature of the absence. For a list of excused and unexcused absences refer to the APS Student Handbook
Regular attendance will help your child learn and retain knowledge and skills. However, a sick child should be kept at home. After 3 unexcused absences, a call from the teacher will be made. After 5 and 7 unexcused absences, parents will be required to attend a meeting at the school with the Principal and Counselor. After 10 unexcused consecutive absences, the student will be dis-enrolled.
The New Mexico Compulsory School Attendance Act requires your child to attend school regularly. Excessive absences can result in recommendation for retention and/or legal action. After 10 absences a child will be referred for legal action.
Tips to Improve Your Child's Attendance:
- Set a regular bed time and morning routine.
- Lay out clothes and backpacks the night before.
- Don’t let your child stay home unless they are truly sick. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
- If your child seems anxious about going to school, talk to your child's teacher or school counselor for advice on how to make them feel comfortable and excited about learning.
- Develop back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent.
- Volunteer at your child's school, and get involved.
- Avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.