[BHS Etree] ADMIN- Attendance

[BHS etree]

Dear BHS Families:

We are pleased to report that this year's focus on attendance appears to be paying off with a drop in the number of unexcused absences so far in the school year. 

We also know from our historical attendance data that this is a time when attendance begins to dip at BHS.  A significant reason is the holiday season.  Some families decide to extend the winter vacation by taking off a few days in advance, or by returning a few days later.  However, state education code does not allow us to excuse travel time, and all extended vacations are considered "unexcused".  

Unexcused absences hurt Berkeley High School's finances because we receive funding from the state that is connected to our attendance.  

Even more to the point is the impact that absences have on our students' education. There is a strong connection between the time students spend in their classrooms and their academic achievement. Simply put, students who miss class learn less and get lower grades.

It would be greatly appreciated if you could take a moment to explicitly discuss attendance with your kids and support our expectation that students be in every class each and every day.

In addition to the fiscal and academic factors outlined here, there are other compelling reasons for both families and staff to maintain very high standards and expectations for student attendance. High expectations around attendance contribute positively to school climate and school culture and also help ensure student safety during school hours; the resources we have in place to look after students can't help those who don't show. 

Students should only miss class for medical reasons, religious reasons, a death in the family, or for very serious personal reasons.   

Absences can be cleared in person, or with a note, or by phone. If you have questions or concerns about attendance, please use the following contact numbers for our attendance team.

for last names A - Gl  call 510.644.6341

for last names Go - N  call 510.644.6194

for last names O - Z call 510.644.6209

Thank you in advance for your support.

Pasquale Scuderi
Principal

Daniel Roose
Dean of Attendance




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