Understanding Absence Failures

What is an Absence Failure?

Texas law requires students to attend class at least 90% of the time to receive credit. This rule applies regardless of grades or assignment completion.

• Even if you pass the class

• Even if you turn in all assignments

• Even if absences are excused

You can still lose credit if your attendance falls below 90%.

What is the 90% Rule?

Students must be present for at least 90% of the days a class meets. Missing more than 10% of class time may result in loss of credit.

Examples

A semester class that meets 90 days:

• • You may miss up to 9 days

  • 10 or more absences = loss of credit

Excused vs. Unexcused Absences

All absences count toward the 90% rule, including:

• Illness

• Parent notes

• Family vacations

• Skipping class

Only school-approved activities (such as field trips or school events) do not count against attendance. Absence can be checked in Focus. The document linked here outlines step-by-step instructions for checking absences and determining the number of make-up hours required.

How Can Credit Be Recovered?

If a student falls below 90% attendance, they may be required to complete make-up hours to regain credit. Options may include:

• Ram Academy

• Before or after school tutorials

• Attendance Committee review (appeal process)

Hours should be logged on the make-up hour log. Printed copies of the log are available in the AP office and counseling office. Completed logs should be submitted to the assistant principal’s secretary.

Absence Failure Appeals

The Attendance Committee may review students who fall below 90%. The appeal form is linked here.

The committee may:

• Approve credit without make-up hours

• Reduce the number of required make-up hours

• Deny the appeal

Submitting an appeal does not guarantee approval.

Why Attendance Matters

Attendance is a state requirement and plays a critical role in student success.

Regular attendance is strongly connected to:

• Graduation

• Passing STAAR/EOC exams

• Overall academic success

Missing a class means missing important instruction time.

What Should Students Do?

• Monitor attendance regularly

• Communicate with your counselor early

• Begin making up hours as soon as possible if needed

The earlier you act, the easier it is to recover credit.

Final Reminder

A student can pass assignments and exams, but still lose credit due to attendance.

Attendance, coursework, and assessments all work together to ensure success.