![attendance spring slump graphic]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1742399315/aasdk12wius/w1bjfrhu3m5cqhnxumoi/attendance.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1742399315/aasdk12wius/w1bjfrhu3m5cqhnxumoi/attendance.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1742399315/aasdk12wius/w1bjfrhu3m5cqhnxumoi/attendance.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1742399315/aasdk12wius/w1bjfrhu3m5cqhnxumoi/attendance.png","width":1080}])
Attendance Policy Updates: Effective for the 2026-27 School Year
As part of our ongoing work to support student success, a few small updates to the district’s attendance practices will take effect beginning in the 2026–27 school year. These updates are designed to create more consistency across schools and ensure students are in class and ready to learn each day.
One key change for elementary schools is a consistent tardy cut-off time.
Elementary students who arrive late to school, but before 8:45 a.m., will be marked tardy. Students who arrive after 8:45 a.m. will now be marked absent until they arrive at school.
In the past, there was a general 10:00 a.m. guideline and some variation between schools. This update creates a clear, consistent expectation across all elementary buildings and removes any confusion about how attendance is recorded.
We’re also strengthening consistency in how attendance is recorded during the school day.
At the secondary level, teachers will take attendance within a set timeframe so that if a student is not present, they are initially marked absent.
If they arrive later, that record is updated to reflect a tardy. This helps ensure accurate attendance and allows schools to respond more quickly when students are not in class.
There is also a clarification related to School of Choice (In-District) open enrollment. If a student is attending a school outside of their home attendance area and is habitually truant (as defined by state law: absent from school without an excuse for part or all of 5 or more days during a school semester), they may be returned to their home school or district if attendance does not improve. This does not apply to students who are considered chronically absent, and it aligns with existing state requirements.
A few additional updates help align district policy with state law and current practice. For example, students receiving homebound instruction due to significant health needs will continue to be supported and are not subject to truancy enforcement. The policy also includes reminders about Wisconsin’s law related to contributing to truancy.
These updates are about clarity, consistency, and support. Clear expectations help students build strong attendance habits, stay engaged in learning, and make the most of their school day. If you have questions or need support with attendance, your school team is always here to help.