Attendance Line: 403-777-7260 ext. 1.

In order to be successful in school it is imperative that students attend on a regular basis and arrive on time.

As per the School Act and CBE Administrative Regulation 6020 - Attendance of Students all students age 6 to 16 must attend school regularly and punctually. According to Alberta Education, a student who has missed 10% (about 18 days) or more of school is considered chronically absent. Whether absences are excused (for example, illness, medical appointments) or unexcused (for example, vacations or family trips), the loss of instructional time is substantial and can negatively affect student learning and social development. Research indicates, absenteeism is a stronger predictor of dropout rates than suspensions and test scores. Vacations and trips during the school year are strongly discouraged as it is extremely difficult for students to keep up with the rest of the class during these times and they often will fall behind in their school work. Our school calendar provides students with a sufficient amount of vacation time. Teachers do not provide homework to students who will be away on an extended absence.

Students are expected to be in school and attending all of their classes while they are here. Students who are absent from school or specific classes during the day are considered to be truant (skipping) and there may be consequences for these unexcused absences.

Excused Absences

In instances defined by the Alberta School Act, such as when students are seriously ill, student absences will be “excused.” However, it is essential to let the school know of the absence. Parents are requested to phone the school before 8:00 a.m. giving the student’s name, homeroom, reason for absence, and anticipated length of absence. Our absence line will be activated between the hours of 3:30 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. so that parents can leave a message. Our absence line phone number is (403) 777-7260 Ext 1. As they are minors, middle school students may not excuse their own absence.

Unexcused Absences

Students who are away from school without permission are considered truant and may face disciplinary action. Absences that do not meet the requirements of an “excused absence” under the School Act will also be considered “unexcused”, even if they are reported to the school. This includes extended vacations.

Truancy/Skipping

Class attendance is mandatory and students who skip classes may be required to make up the time with community service during lunch or after regular school hours, or face further disciplinary action.

Leaving Early 

As minors, students who need to leave the building for a scheduled appointment or due to illness must be signed out by a parent or guardian at the front desk. Parents, please come into the office to do so when picking up your child during school hours.

Extended Absence Policy

It is our responsibility to ensure families understand the effect that unnecessary absences may have on a student’s education. If the student will be away more than five days, an appointment with the Principal or Assistant Principal is required and an Extended Absence Notice form must be completed and signed by the student, parents, teachers, Principal and Assistant Principal. The form must be completed at least two weeks prior to the student’s absence. It is not the school’s or Calgary Board of Education’s responsibility to provide home work to students who will be away on an extended absence. Extra time will not be available in class to catch up on any work missed, and grades will be assigned accordingly.