Attendance Initiative

The goal of the IPS Attendance Initiative* is to reduce the number of lost instructional days (i.e., excused, unexcused and suspensions). The focus of the initiative is to create a culture where all IPS students, parents and staff understand the importance of excellent attendance and how it relates to academic, social, emotional and vocational success in life. Through building relationships with families and students, we strive to encourage positive attendance through the implementation of universal, targeted and intensive strategies. Through this initiative, students will learn and develop positive attendance habits that will benefit them both in school and after graduation.

*There are no penalties for students or parents regarding this initiative and it is not related to the Board policy attendance guidelines related to the state’s Compulsory School Attendance Law.

Attendance Resources

Types of Attendance Absences

  • Chronic Absences (18+ days): Missing just one day every two weeks can add up to 18 days in a year. Excused and unexcused absences represent lost time in the classroom and lost opportunities to learn.
  • Warning (10-17 days): Students who are absent an average of 15 days a year miss a year’s worth of school before their senior year. When students miss a day of school it actually puts them two days behind their classmates.
  • Good Attendance (9 or fewer days): Students with good attendance generally achieve higher grades and enjoy school more. Students make the most of their educational opportunities if they attend school every day and on time.

Attendance Tips & Information