Conversatons with the Board

Our leadership team attended the Fall Leadership Dinner at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. It was an excellent experience and an opportunity to further develop our leadership team's capacity. Stephen Mackey, Co-Author of The Locker Room: How Great Teams Heal, Hurt, Overcome Adversity and Build Unity, spoke on the Six Pillars of Championship Character—Toughness, Integrity, Belief, Excellence, Effort, and Service. He challenged us to continue to build and develop a culture of character. It was great to have our entire team present to learn together and further our working relationship. I am grateful to have team members committed to this type of work.

At the Board meeting this week, members thoroughly discussed and approved policies related to chronic absenteeism and truancy. These decisions are particularly important given the current public debate about the changes in the law. The Board and leadership team firmly believe it is appropriate to expect students to attend school regularly, but some differences between past and current practices are important to communicate. The changes will result in less discretionary decision-making on the part of the principal.

There are now six types of absences that are exempt from the definition of chronic absenteeism and truancy.

Exemptions include students who:

• completed graduation requirements or attained a GED

• excused for sufficient reason by any court or record or judge;

• attend religious services or receive religious instruction;

• unable to attend school due to legitimate medical reasons;

• have an IEP that affects attendance; or

• have a 504 plan that affects attendance.

Here are some examples of exempt and non-exempt absences.

*Local2 means the district has discretion. For example, a doctor's note may be considered valid evidence for an excused absence.

It's important to note that these scenarios and definitions are not district-specific and will be used by all schools in Iowa. The information described is substantial and involves change. We understand this and are committed to transparency. The changes in the Parent/Student Handbook will reflect this information. I want to stress the importance of communicating with your student's building principal about any planned absences. This proactive approach is critical in preventing concerns about chronic absenteeism and truancy. Our goal is to work with your family to avoid the need for legal action, and we are confident that with your cooperation, we can achieve this.