At BMS, our attendance goal is 95%

Why Attendance is Important

• Better Learning - Students who attend school regularly learn more and achieve at higher levels

• Stronger Connections - Being at school helps students build friendships and feel connected

• More Opportunities - Good attendance opens doors to activities, programs, and future success

• Build Good Habits - Showing up today builds a foundation for your tomorrow

Two Texas Attendance Laws to be Aware of

1. 90% Attendance Law - Students must be in attendance 90% or more regardless of excused or unexcused absences. If a student is absent more than 10% of the time, they must make up instructional hours. At BMS, that will be through Academic Tutoring.

2. Truancy (Unexcused Absences) Law - If a student has unexcused absences for 10 or more days (or parts of days) within a 6-month period, it violates state truancy. The truancy law can end with a court hearing.

Excused Absence Examples

• Required court appearances

• Documented healthcare appointments for the student

• Mental health or therapy appointments

• Activities related to obtaining US citizenship for the student

• College visits (Juniors and Seniors only, two per year).

• Death of an immediate family member

• UIL Activities

• Personal illness of the student (school accepts 4 parent notes before a doctor's note is required) as an excused absence

Unexcused Absence Examples

• Family vacations, trips, cruises

• Leaving campus during class or lunch period without authorized permission

• Oversleeping

• Babysitting for family members

• Translating for family members

• Missing the bus

• Car trouble

• Absence without written notification from parent/guardian

• Wedding/graduation ceremonies