Excused Mil-Absences

MILITARY-CONNECTED EXCUSED ABSENCES

In order to ensure that we support both the student’s academic and emotional needs, we have provided the following guidance for students of active duty service members in compliance with the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunities for Military Children. The following attendance guidance is consistent with the U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) and other public schools with military-connected students throughout the United States. Prior approval from the principal is required for extended absences including post deployment absences. Principals may request leave forms or other documentation to verify the reason for the absence.

• Students whose active duty parent, step-parent, or guardian is serving in an overseas deployment may be given an excused absence for the day of the deployment, day of the redeployment, and up to 5 days post deployment. Post deployment absences should be managed in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Fort Bragg and Moore County Schools.

• Moore County Schools will accommodate active duty families to the best of our abilities as long as the total number of excused and unexcused absences does not exceed the maximum number of allowed absences as outlined in the MCS Board of Education Policies, NC General Statutes and NC State Board of Education Policies.

• Military students requesting excused absences for a military-connected event must meet the standards outlined in the MOU to include pre-approval for absence, be in good academic standing, have a prior record of good attendance, missed work is completed and turned in within the school’s allotted time period, and absence is not during standardized testing dates.

• Additional situations that may warrant an excused absence for military students in good standing include but are not limited to: promotion ceremony, retirement ceremony, identification card (ID) renewal/initial issue, memorial services, and unit functions.

Parents may request excused absences by completing the K-12 Military-Connected Absence Request Form found on the MCS Attendance Webpage.