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Strive for Fewer Than 5!
Top 5 reasons kids miss school
#1
Illness or appointments
Kids get sick. Scheduling is hard. Many absences can be reduced with plans.
Try this: same-day nurse call, telehealth note, ask for late arrival, bundle appointments after school, request work packets.
Ask school about: make-up work policy, short-term health plan, attendance “forgiveness” for verified care.
If urgent: call your child’s doctor or 911 for emergencies.
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When is sick too sick?
#2
Transportation falls through
Missed bus. Car trouble. No ride.
Try this: ask for a temporary bus stop change, carpool list, Dial-A-Ride or county transit, backup morning plan.
Ask school about: dispatcher contact, early notification options, attendance grace when buses run late.
#3
Anxiety, bullying, or school worry
Stomach aches. Refusal at the door.
Try this: morning routine card, gradual return plan, meet-and-greet at drop-off, counselor check-in, safe-person pass.
Ask school about: counselor or social worker, bullying report process, 504 or behavior supports, attendance plan meeting.
#4
Caregiving and morning logistics
Work shifts. Younger siblings. No childcare.
Try this: before-school program, neighbor drop-off, alarm ladder, clothes-and-lunch set-out, five-item morning checklist.
Ask school about: early supervision, tardy window, flexible arrival for documented caregiving needs.
#5
Scheduling and avoidable absences
Trips, late returns, oversleep, minor errands.
Try this: schedule trips on breaks, appointments after school, set two alarms, pack night before, attendance tracker on fridge.
Ask school about: calendar highlights, attendance rewards, make-up options.