School Attendance

§ 22.1-258

According to the School Attendance Law of July 1999, when a student continues to accumulate unexcused absences after being notified by the school, the family may be referred to an interdisciplinary team that convenes at the Department of Court Services. After the seventh unexcused absence, the student and parent(s) may have to appear before the Juvenile Court Judge and be subject to various kinds of penalties.

Poor attendance at school often results in less than satisfactory academic progress. I know that all parents want what is best for their children, so I encourage you to make sure that your children are present, and on time, each school day. You have my assurance that the Alexandria City Public Schools will do everything possible to assist you and your children to have a most beneficial school year.

Poor progress in school is not the only consequence for unsatisfactory attendance. Other consequences may include the following: an appearance before the Attendance Panel; summons to appear before the Juvenile Court Judge; other penalties, fines and possible incarceration.

If you have questions about how this important new law may affect your child, please contact the school's principal or social worker.