Under DCS policy, parents/guardians may excuse their son/daughter for a total of 60 hours for the school year for personal illness before a physician’s certificate is required. A student will be considered habitually truant under ORC if the student is absent without a legitimate excuse for 30 or more consecutive school hours, for 42 hours in one month, or 72 or more school hours in one school year.

A student who surpasses 72 hours of unexcused absences may face truancy charges or attendance mediation through juvenile court, and the student could also be removed from participation in the trip. A review committee of advisors, school counselors and building administrators will determine eligibility. The decision of the review committee is final.

Families are encouraged to maintain high expectations for student achievement and play a role in encouraging students to make successful decisions regarding eligibility. However, academic status will be reviewed quarterly. 

Students who have a failing grade for the year in one or more classes will not be permitted to go on the trip.

Throughout the school year, the Dempsey Team plans and designs field trips that enrich our students' educational experiences. However, please keep in mind that field trips are a privilege, not a right.  A student's attendance and attitude are key factors in determining his/her successful participation in these educational opportunities.  

The staff reserves the right to refuse participation to any student who has an unsatisfactory academic performance, has been a source of disruption or a discipline problem, or whom they believe would jeopardize the smooth operation of the trip such as repeated violations or severe harassment/bullying.