When students arrive at school on time, prepared with supplies and dressed appropriately, they will be successful.


Pupils are required by law to attend school punctually and regularly. Tardies count against perfect attendance.

Excused absence:  Absence for proper causes are listed in the California State Education Code for illness, medical, dental or doctor appointments, and bereavement and require a note from doctor after the third absence.

Unexcused absence: Absence for any reason other than the above is unexcused. Truancy is a violation of State attendance laws.

Parents must write an absence note or call the school office within 24 hours of a child’s absence. 

If not cleared with office in 3 days, absences will count as unexcused

Notes must be brought back on the first day after an absence and must include: 

  • Date the note is written 

  • Date of absence 

  • Name of student

  • Teacher and homeroom number

  • Reason for the absence

  • Signature of parent or guardian

  • Relationship to student (mother, guardian, etc.)

School Attendance Review Board (SARB)

California law: The principal or designee is required by law to notify parents when a child accumulates 3 unexcused absences and/or tardies in excess of 30 minutes, or a combination thereof (EC 48260). 

Referral to the District Attorney (EC 48293):

What charges may be filed against the parent(s) guardians?

  • An infraction may be filed against parent/guardian

  • 1st  time = $330 plus court costs

  • 2nd time= $810 plus court costs

  • 3rd time= $1,610 plus court costs

Possible additional penalties to parents: 

  • Up to $2500 fine and/or 1 year in jail

  • Parent may be ordered to attend parenting classes

  • Parent may be ordered to sign student in at school office every day 

Student Penalties:

  • Any or all of the following penalties: $100 fine or 20 hours of community service