The educational programs offered in the Springfield School District provide strength and continuity when students are present in school everyday. School is in session 180 days per year. When a student is absent from school, progress is disrupted. While individual extra effort to make up work, receive tutoring, and engage in extra credit work may help, they are supplemental and cannot replace participation in regular class activities, and interaction with students and staff.

The Springfield Township School District strongly discourages scheduling vacations during the academic school year. Continuity of instruction and learning is integral to scholastic success.

Twelve absences are considered excessive, affect programs and incur a School Team Review.

Excused absences will not be counted in the accumulated totals that determine possible loss of credit. Absences can only be excused by an administrator or the attendance clerk under the following circumstances supported by the appropriate documentation including:

· Personal Illness (Doctor’s note must specify the date(s) of the absence(s) or note from parent.)

· Legal Obligations/Court Appearance (Court Documentation)

· Religious Observances as Permitted by Law (Letter from Parent/Guardian)

· Death in the Family (letter from Parent/Guardian)

· Administrative Action (Example: In School/Out of School Suspension)

Appropriate notice must be presented to the classroom teacher upon return to school.