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SCCPSS board hears extensive debate over attendance policy changes, including 5‑day truancy definition and waiver timing
Summary
The Savannah‑Chatham County Board of Public Education reviewed a first read of revised compulsory attendance policy JBA, focusing on the state rule that defines truancy at five unexcused days, the timing and standards for attendance waivers and remote participation rules; no formal vote was taken and staff will return with revisions for July.
The Savannah‑Chatham County Board of Public Education on June 4 held a lengthy first read of proposed revisions to board policy JBA (Compulsory Attendance Ages), focusing on how the district will treat truancy, attendance waivers, remote participation and related administrative procedures.
Board members and staff discussed why the policy text was changed to align with the state board of education rule that defines truancy at five unexcused days rather than the district’s prior local practice of 10 days. Superintendent Denise Watts told the board, “we're now in line with how the actual state board of education rule defines truancy as 5 days.”
The discussion centered on several points: when a family must request an attendance waiver; whether the waiver deadline—currently the end of the term—gives schools enough time to implement recovery plans; what academic standard should qualify a student for a waiver; and how remote participation should affect teacher workload.
Board member Dr. Howard Hall and others pressed staff on the 70 percent grade threshold cited for attendance‑waiver eligibility and on whether “proficient” (as used on a rubric) is consistent with the grade‑based standard in policy. Superintendent Watts and other staff said the rubric is separate from the policy and that the 70 percent threshold aligns with the district’s promotion and retention rules. Several trustees urged clearer wording so families and administrators understand whether the 70 percent refers to class grades or assessment proficiency.
Trustees also questioned timing: Dr. Austin Crow asked that waiver decisions occur earlier than the last day of the term so students denied a waiver can still complete attendance recovery without being forced into summer school. He suggested a deadline such as April 30 or “30 days before the end of the term”; staff said they will develop clearer guidance on timelines and appeals.
On remote learning, board members asked about teacher workload. Staff clarified the district’s plan for remote participation is asynchronous, noting that “the remote participation option, the work, expected of the teacher, is, asynchronous,” and that teachers will use the district’s learning management system to post assignments.
No formal action was taken; this was a first read. Staff were directed to bring revised language and supporting administrative guidance back for a July second read and potential adoption.
