WSHS Attendance Office

Students are expected to be in school and in class daily. Punctual attendance is the first requirement for success – both here and in the “real” world.

A large part of your learning takes place during class discussions and participation. Many of our teachers use project based learning methods and if you are absent, not only do you miss out on the learning, but any group you are working in is affected.

Attendance Policy

The depth and coverage of material in class requires active student engagement, and failure to attend class prevents active student engagement, which is an expectation of all students in all courses at West Seattle High School: class participation is a basis for grading in all courses.

All absences must be cleared in writing (note or email) within 48 hours.

Excused Absences:

• Participation in a school-approved activity (field trip), (authorized)
• Request made by parent/guardian such as illness, health conditions, family emergency, religious purposes, or educational opportunities
• Disciplinary actions or suspensions

Unexcused Absences:

• Absences not authorized or excused from the above reasons
• Vacations

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How to Report an Absence

It is the responsibility of the student to keep track of your attendance. You may look on the SOURCE or get a print-out from the Attendance Office. You must excuse your absence in writing (email or note from parent/guardian) within two school days.

If you will be gone on a pre-planned event, make sure you fill out a Pre-Planned Absence Form and have teachers sign it. Please do this at least three (3) days in advance.

Course work will not be accepted for full credit unless an absence or tardy is excused. Students must arrange make-up work for excused absences and tardies with the teacher.

To request homework while you are out, send an email directly to the teacher or check the Source for current assignments.

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Tardy Policy

Students are considered tardy if they arrive within the first 10 minutes of class. Arrival to class late, by more than 10minutes, will be considered an absence.

If you arrive late to school and have no excuse note, just go right to class. If you have a note, bring it to the attendance office where you will be issued a pass to class.

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Early Dismissals

If you need to leave school before the day is over, bring a note from your parent/guardian requesting an early dismissal. If that is not possible, please have them call in advance and request the release. Without advance notice, they will be asked to wait while we deliver the pass, as we do not page during class time. Please check in with the Attendance Office upon your return.