Any child, subject to Georgia compulsory law for attendance, who during the school calendar year has more than five days of unexcused absences. Excused: Illness, death, religious holiday, family illness or emergency, and hazardous conditions. Unexcused Absences: Missing the bus, family trips, oversleeping, not feeling like coming to school, boredom, staying home to baby sit, work, or taking care of a parent. 

• Excuses must be provided within 3 days of the absences.
• Medical notes must be provided after 5 consecutive absences.
• Missed assignments should be made up within 3 days.
• Students are absent from school if not present for at least half of the instructional time required at each grade level :
• grades 1-3, 135 minutes of 270
• grades 4-5, 150 minutes of 300
• grades 6-12, 165 minutes of 330 

• Develop a relationship with the teacher and school, attend conferences, and communicate with teacher.
• Regular bedtime schedules for quality sleep.
• Do not encourage unexcused absences.
• Help your child with homework and tests, review grades with your child, apply for special services, if needed.
• Be an advocate for your child.
• Listen and speak to your child about their day at school.
• Limit television, cell phones, and video games.
• Demonstrate the positives of an education.
• Encourage your child to read.
• Access Parent Portal to review your child’s attendance (ask school for help)