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Attendance Matters

STUDENT  ATTENDANCE MATTERS

Attendance Matters! | Newport Public Schools

We want to talk with you about why regular attendance is one of the most important ways to support your child’s success. Every day in school counts toward learning, building friendships, and staying on track academically. 

WHY ATTENDANCE MATTERS

  • Being in school matters. It supports learning, relationships, and opportunities.
  • Regular attendance helps staff notice early when a student may be struggling and allows us to step in.
  • Absences happen, and we want to partner with families when they do.
  • Frequent absences can affect learning and may require support plans to get your child back on track.
  • Our goal is to help students reach Level 3 or Level 4 attendance, keeping them engaged and learning every day.

We know life happens, illness, appointments, and family emergencies  and we are here to work with you. At the same time, frequent or unexplained absences make it harder for students to succeed and for teachers to teach effectively.

VALLEY STREAM UFSD 30 STUDENT ATTENDANCE POLICY #5100

TYPE OF ABSENCE

WHAT THAT MEANS

WHAT FAMILIES SHOULD DO

Absence

Absences allowed under policy, including illness, medical/dental appointments, approved religious observances, court appearances, and other reasons approved by the District (including circumstances related to homelessness).

Notify the school as soon as possible, and provide a written note or documentation when your child returns.

Unexcused Absence

Tardiness or early departures that do not meet the excused criteria, such as vacation during school days, oversleeping, or non-emergency family commitments.

Staff will follow up to ensure families understand the policy and offer support if needed.

Note: Suspensions do not count as absences if the student receives alternate instruction.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN ABSENCES ADD UP

  • Excessive ATEDs: 18 or more days (excused or unexcused).
  • Designated staff will contact families, review the policy, discuss the importance of attendance, and develop intervention strategies.
  • Students with unexcused ATEDs may face disciplinary actions, such as detention or loss of extracurricular privileges.
  • Patterns of absences trigger additional support, and in severe cases, Child Protective Services may be contacted.

FAMILY TIPS TO SUPPORT GOOD STUDENT ATTENDANCE

  • Schedule appointments outside school hours when possible.
  • Do not plan vacations during school days.
  • Communicate early if your child will be absent.
  • Keep a calendar of school days and plan around it.
  • Reach out to teachers, school psychologists, or social workers if your child is struggling or falling behind.

CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM IN NEW YORK STATE

Starting in 2025, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) will track attendance using four levels based on the percentage of days attended. A student is considered chronically absent if they miss 10% or more of school days, including excused, unexcused, or certain disciplinary absences. In Valley Stream UFSD 30, students are expected to attend 181 school days.

NYSED ATTENDANCE LEVELS  & WHAT IT MEANS FOR VALLEY STREAM UFSD 30

This table connects state-level standards directly to our district calendar so families can clearly see where their child stands and why every day matters.

NYSED 

Attendance Level

% of Days Attended

Days Missed in 181-Day School Year

District Support & Family Guidance

Level 1

 Severe Absenteeism

85% or less

27+ days

Very high absenteeism. Student is at risk academically. District will work closely with family to improve attendance. Immediate support recommended.

Level 2

Chronic Absenteeism

85.1%–90%

18–26 days

Student is missing significant instruction. Formal interventions may be initiated. NYSED considers 10% or more missed as chronically absent.

Level 3

Average 

90.1%–95%

9–17 days

Attendance is generally healthy but missing 1–2 days per month can add up. Families should monitor and prevent absences from increasing.

Level 4

Excellent 

95%+

0–8 days

Student is consistently present and benefiting fully from instruction. Your child is on track!

OUR VISION (“SOMEDAY”)

Educate, Inspire & Celebrate every child to become a Global Leader of Tomorrow.

OUR MISSION (“EVERY DAY”)

Leaders, teachers & staff ensure every child reaches their fullest potential by:

Igniting Passion ♦ Nurturing Belonging ♦ Supporting Growth ♦ Integrating Best Practice ♦ Differentiating Learning ♦ Empowering Students