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ATTENDANCE DEFINITIONS

Plain-language explanations of the terms used in school attendance reporting, policy and chronic absenteeism data.

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Different situations like full-day, partial-day absences, excused absences, and trips or vacations count as school absence.Updated Aug 28, 2026What Counts as a School Absence?Basic Attendance RuleA student is generally absent when the student is not physically at school and is not taking part in instruction or an…Read Definition A classroom scene illustrating the concept of what is chronic absenteeism, emphasizing the significance of attendance for student success.Updated Sep 13, 2026What Is Chronic Absenteeism?Chronic absenteeism means a student misses 10% or more of school days during the school year for any reason. Excused and unexcused absences both…Read Definition Young students entering school with a sign about compulsory school attendance and a school building in the background.Updated Oct 4, 2026What Is Compulsory School Attendance?Compulsory School Attendance Compulsory school attendance is the legal requirement that a child within a state's compulsory school-age rules receive education through a legally…Read Definition Kids skipping school without valid reasons, often influenced by various circumstances, illustrating what is truancy.Updated Oct 3, 2026What Is Truancy?Truancy Definition Truancy generally refers to school absence without a valid or accepted excuse by a student who is subject to compulsory attendance requirements.…Read Definition
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