Student attendance
Every day makes a difference
We understand that students will be absent for a variety of reasons, including illness, family activities, vacations, dentist/medical appointments, funerals, etc. It is important for parents/guardians to always notify the school when their child will be absent.
A student is considered absent if they are not physically on school grounds, or are not participating in a required school-directed activity under the direction, supervision, or instructional guidance of educational staff at an approved off-grounds location (ie. a class field trip).
- How do I report an absence?
- What is the law around school attendance?
- Are there any exceptions?
- Why is school attendance so important?
- Iowa City Community School District Attendance Guidelines
How do I report an absence?
What is the law around school attendance?
Are there any exceptions?
Why is school attendance so important?
Iowa City Community School District Attendance Guidelines
Need Help?
Resources are available to address issues related to chronic absenteeism. Please reach out to your school's Student & Family Advocate to explore the support options we offer.
Have an Attendance Question?
No problem! Check out our Frequently Asked Questions section.
What is Chronic Absenteeism?
Chronic absenteeism, a primary cause of poor academic achievement, is defined as missing at least 10% of days in a school year for any reason (both excused and unexcused absences).
Our District has a partnership with Johnson County's Attorney office to address truancy. Our process has been developed to meet Iowa Code 299, Compulsory Attendance. This code gives schools the authority to establish parameters for excused/unexcused absences and tardies. Ultimately, the attendance officer at each school has the discretion to determine if a student absence is excused within the parameters of the District guidelines.