SKANO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

PRE-PLANNED EXTENDED ABSENCE NOTIFICATION FORM

A student’s absence from school at any time represents an interruption in the student’s academic progress. Of particular concern, are extended absences for family trips during the time when school is in session. Such absences are illegal as defined by New York State Law. It is the parents’ prime responsibility to have their children present for instruction except in cases of illness, religious observances, inclement weather, court appearances, and a very few other unusual circumstances. Nonetheless, we are aware that each family has to make decisions about extended absences based upon their unique family needs.

Obviously, extended absences deprive a student of the classroom interactions, practice, and opportunities for additional assistance necessary for academic growth. Much of the learning in today’s elementary classroom involves group discussions and debates, independent writing, with peer and teacher conferencing as part of the process, group problem solving and cooperative learning, experiments, demonstrations, etc. Since none of these scholastic experiences can be duplicated outside the classroom setting, we cannot encourage extended trips for vacationing, visiting, and other similar purposes. It is very difficult for teachers to provide specific work prior to trips, since plans frequently change. Whenever possible, with sufficient notice, we might be able to suggest some general activities.

Upon returning from the trip, it is the student’s responsibility to obtain any back assignments, tests, and work that the teacher deems necessary and to return completed work in a reasonable amount of time.

Please sign and return the form below to indicate your understanding of the above.

Pre-planned Extended Absence Notification Form

Student Name ____________________________________________________________

____________________________ _________________

Parent’s Signature Date