School changes absence policy

— The school halls are quiet.

They are no longer filled with students gathering going to their next class. But that doesn’t mean there is no work at school.

Administrators at the Pea Ridge school district are workingto ensure that students will be hitting the books in the fall.

A major change occurring next school year is the attendance policy.

According to Rick Neal, principal for Pea Ridge High School, medical notes will no longer beaccepted in the case of an absence.

Also, there will no longer be a distinction between excused or unexcused absences.

The state School Board Association was concerned with the amount of doctor’s notes and medical excuses keeping students away from the classroom, Neal said.

In the situation of a student missing eight or more days, they will not receive credit for their courses.

Dr. Roland Smith, interim-superintendent, says the state made a change in the proposed policy to take away unexcused/excused absences.

“The district has a high premium in students being in school,” Smith said.

“The only way we can continue to see our students’ achievements is by keeping them in school.”

Smith assures discretion will be advised through the principal for students who have been in an accident or need medical attention.

“The eight absences we give students allow for illness that may come about each semester,” he said.

Smith is hopeful that parents will be understanding of the policy and view it as positive reinforcement.

“Parents may be encouraged to see their students are in class regularly,” he said.

News, Pages 1 on 07/06/2011