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Board approves several policies after extended debate on attendance rules and make‑up work
Summary
After a lengthy second‑reading debate about excused vs. unexcused absences, notification tools and teacher discretion on make‑up work, the Eastport‑South Manor board approved eight policies (including attendance revisions) and committed to clearer procedures and community communication.
At its Nov. 19 meeting the Eastport‑South Manor Board of Education held an extended discussion on the attendance policy during second reading before voting to adopt several policies. The Policy Committee chair introduced annual updates to routine policies and led discussion on the attendance policy's key provisions, including a 24‑hour parental notification requirement and a three‑day window for parents to submit a note to excuse an absence.
Board members, administrators and parents debated practical problems tied to how attendance is recorded period‑by‑period, noting instances in which students were marked absent during a period when they had a substitute teacher or were attending an assembly. One parent noted receiving automated absence notices for periods when the student was present; administrators responded this is an input problem and said they would emphasize accurate, period‑by‑period attendance in administrative meetings.
Board members discussed whether students who plan to miss school for an unexcused reason (for example, a family vacation) should be able to request assignments in advance. Administrators and the policy chair said the formal policy follows state guidance: excused absences permit make‑up opportunities (to be completed by a date set by the teacher); unexcused absences generally do not require make‑up for assessments. Multiple board members urged better communication with families through ParentSquare and the student handbook so parents understand the distinction and the consequences for chronic absenteeism.
Following discussion, Speaker 1 moved to accept policy numbers 1120, 5100, 66700, 6700, 6740, 6740R, 6710 and 8113. The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote; board members recorded an affirmative voice vote with no opposed responses noted in the meeting transcript.
What happens next: Administrators said they will address procedural reporting and communication with principals and teachers (including guidance on period‑by‑period input) and will circulate reminders to families about attendance reporting and the distinctions between excused and unexcused absences. The policies were adopted as presented; the board invited any party to request a policy be pulled for additional review if needed.
