4.1.1 Importance of Attendance

California law requires that children between the ages of 6 and 18 attend school every day.  While the law does not currently apply to children below the age of six, research shows that early education (pre-school and kindergarten) is essential for future academic success. It is the parent/caregiver’s responsibility to ensure that their child gets to school every day.

Tips for Parents/Caregivers: Getting to School on Time Link to this section

• Make sure your child goes to bed early and gets a good night’s sleep.
• Develop a morning routine (get dressed, eat breakfast, brush teeth) and stick with it.
• Talk with your child about the importance of attending school every day for academic success.
• Arrange a time every night without interruptions for your child to do homework.

Regular Attendance is Essential! Link to this section

National and local research has shown that students with frequent absences, whether excused or unexcused, have lower literacy levels, lower grades and higher drop-out rates than students who attend school regularly. 

The Governing Board believes that regular attendance plays an important role in student achievement. The Board will work with parents/guardians and students to ensure their compliance with all state attendance laws and may use appropriate legal means to correct problems of chronic absence or truancy.  Absence in excess of 10% or more days of school, whether those absences are excused or unexcused, will be considered Chronic Absence.  

For support in keeping your child in school, or if you have any questions about District Attendance Policy, please contact your school administrator or the Student Family Services Division, by calling (415) 340-1716, emailing sflink@sfusd.edu or submit an online form at familylink.sfusd.edu.