Dear Elmira High School Parents and Students,

As we begin second semester, we want to take a moment to reinforce important attendance expectations that
help ensure student success and accountability.

Unexcused Absences

If a student is absent, any absence must be cleared within 24 hours of the student’s return to school. This can
be done by a parent or guardian through the attendance office.

 A signed note from parent or guardian
 Email to teutsler@fernridge.k12.or.us
 Phone call (541) 935-8200
 Voicemail (after school hours)

Absences not cleared within this timeframe will remain unexcused and may result in school consequences.
(lunch detention)

Tardy Policy Enforcement
Beginning Monday at the start of second semester, Elmira High School will be fully enforcing its tardy policy.
Students are expected to arrive to class on time, prepared, and ready to learn. Repeated tardies will result in
progressive consequences as outlined in the student handbook.

Consistent attendance and punctuality are critical life skills that support academic success and prepare
students for future responsibilities. We appreciate your partnership in reinforcing these expectations with
your student.

If you have questions regarding attendance or tardy procedures, please contact the Elmira High School office.
Thank you for your continued support of our school community.

Sincerely,

Elmira High School Administration

Absences and Excuses: Attendance Office: 935-8200 Ext. 2200. 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.;

beyond these hours you may leave a voice mail message.

The attendance office is located in Elmira High School’s front office. When returning to school after an absence, a student must
report to the front office before attending class. A parent may call the front office to excuse a student before their return to school
or the student must bring a note signed by the parent that describes the reason for the absence. Students must clear all absences
the day they return or their absence will be considered unexcused. Students who are truant or unexcused will be subject to
disciplinary action. Information needed to evaluate an absence includes the student's name, a detailed reason for the absence,
date(s) of the absence, and parent signature. By law, the administration determines if an absence is excused and confirmation of the
reason may be required. A student who is absent from school for any reason will not be allowed to participate in school-related
activities on that day. Attendance on the last day of the school week prior to an event controls a student's right to attend or
participate in athletics and activities on non-school days.

Absences from school or being tardy to school may be excused under the following circumstances:
 Illness of the student.
 Illness of an immediate family member or when the student's presence at home is necessary.
 Emergency situations that require the student's absence.
 Field trips and school approved activities.
 Medical or dental appointments. Confirmation of appointments may be required. A student will only be excused for the
appointment time period not the entire day.
 If the student or parent calls in prior to the first bell ringing to share that a problem has arisen that will necessitate them
being late.