Extended Absence Form
Excused Pupils Pupils Excused under Subsection 23(3) of Regulation 298 Policies regarding excused pupils apply to all pupils (of compulsory and non-compulsory age) who are registered for classroom instruction and who are attending classes regularly. Pupil attendance may be excused by the principal, in accordance with subsection 23(3) of Regulation 298, “Operation of Schools – General.” The parent/guardian of the pupil or the pupil (if the pupil is an adult) must submit a request in writing (email or letter) to the principal, requesting that the pupil be excused for a specified time frame (e.g., vacation, family obligation, mental health absences without appropriate supporting documentations, or based on principal discretion).The time frame can be greater than 15 days but must be explicitly stated and cannot be indefinite or until further notice24. If the period of excusal exceeds 15 consecutive school days, the school must provide a program of study25 in order for the pupil to remain on the enrolment register (see “Program of Study” section). Appropriate supporting documentation (i.e., the letter or email) and the certification by the principal that a program of study was assigned to the pupil must be retained on file for audit purposes. A referral to the attendance counsellor is not required. 24 The pupil can be absent for more than 15 consecutive school days if they provide the appropriate supporting documentation with the time frame of their absence explicitly stated. 25 School boards should determine an appropriate program of study for pupils. In general, a program of study should be an academic program to help the pupil fulfill curricular expectations during the period of absence and to ensure that pupil can complete all courses upon the return to school. 2024-25 Enrolment Register Instructions for Elementary and Secondary Schools 27 The pupil should be marked with a “G” on the student’s daily attendance for each day of the excusal period on the timetable they had prior to the excusal. When the pupil returns to school on the date specified in the letter and begins to attend school regularly, record their attendance in the usual way. If the pupil does not return to school on the date specified in the letter, mark their absence with an “A.” If the pupil is absent for 15 consecutive school days, follow the procedures required for prolonged absence (see the “Prolonged Absence” section ).
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