Each year we are approached by an increasing number of parents who wish to take their child out of school for extended periods, usually for family plans or family business. We do not have a leave of absence procedure rather it is assumed that parents will make decisions in the best interest of their child.
We are respectful that many families have family members far way and spending time with them is important. Difficulties arise when parents wish to have reassurance that their child will not be behind in their work when they return. When your child misses school for extended periods, they will be behind in classroom work. Missed instructional time cannot be made up because complete lessons cannot be retaught. Students may have cultural and travel experiences which contribute to their development but the varied daily classroom activities they miss cannot be duplicated through worksheets or workbooks.
Teachers are often not able to provide assignments prior to the absence. Upon the students return, teachers will do their best to help students get caught up by providing the missed assignments.
Before leaving and upon returning, please contact your childâs teachers to discuss the impact this absence will have on your childâs progress.
