When a student accumulates a total of three (3) days of unexcused absence, a FIRST NOTICE (warning letter) is issued to the parents by mail, email, and/or school meetings. This is a state requirement in compliance with the Compulsory Attendance Laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Any additional day(s) of unlawful absence following the receipt of this letter will also require a School Attendance Improvement Plan (SAIP meeting request) and subsequent unexcused absences will result in truancy citation(s) with local Magisterial District Judge.
The following reasons are not legal absences in accordance with state law:
• Truancy
• Missing the school bus
• Trips not approved in advance
• Shopping
• Birthdays, anniversaries, or other celebrations
• Working or job hunting
• Oversleeping
• Obtaining driver’s permit
• Babysitting or translating
Penalties for Unexcused Absences
When a student accumulates a total of three (3) days of unexcused absence, a First Notice Warning letter is delivered to parent/guardian, followed by a request for a School Attendance Improvement Conference (SAIC) at six (6) or more unexcused absences.
This is a state requirement in compliance with Compulsory Attendance Laws of Pennsylvania. Any additional unexcused absence(s) following receipt of this letter may result in fine(s) from $300-$750 per violation, community service, parenting program, and referral to Children & Youth Services.