Attendance at School

Student Attendance

Regular school attendance is one of the most important factors in a student's academic success. Students who attend school consistently are more likely to achieve academic growth, build meaningful relationships with teachers and classmates, and develop the responsibility and habits that prepare them for future success.

The Penn-Trafford School District is committed to partnering with families to ensure every student attends school regularly and arrives on time. In accordance with Pennsylvania's compulsory attendance laws and Board policy, the district follows established procedures for excessive absences, tardiness, and unlawful absences.

Excusing an Absence

A written excuse from a parent/guardian or a medical practitioner must be submitted within three (3) school days of the student's return to school. If an excuse is not received within that timeframe, the absence will be recorded as unexcused. An excuse form is included below, under Resources, for your convenience.

Truancy

A student who accumulates three (3) or more unexcused absences during the current school year is considered truant under Pennsylvania law.

A student who accumulates six (6) or more unexcused absences is considered habitually truant. At that point, the district is required to implement additional interventions, which may include:

• • An Attendance Improvement Conference
  • A formal School Attendance Improvement Plan
  • Referrals to appropriate community agencies or support services
  • Legal action or other consequences permitted under Pennsylvania law, when necessary

The Penn-Trafford School District encourages families to make regular school attendance a priority. If your child must be absent, please notify the school promptly and communicate with school staff so we can work together to support your child's educational success.