The following timelines will define the Sparta School District's plan to communicate and assist with truancy concerns.

• 4 cumulative unexcused absences for the first notification

• 9 cumulative unexcused absences for the second notification

• 10 or more unexcused absences the student is truant pursuant to NJSA 18A:38-27 and must be referred to the court program

“An unexcused absence that counts toward truancy” is a student’s absence from school for a full or a portion of a day for any reason that is not an “excused absence” as defined below.

“An excused absence” is a student’s absence from school for a full day or a portion of a day for the observance of a religious holiday pursuant to N.J.S.A. 18A:36-14 through 16, or any absence for the reasons listed below:

• Necessary and unavoidable medical/dental appointments (with proof of appointment) 

• The student's required attendance in court;

• Where appropriate, when consistent with Individualized Education Programs, the Individuals with Disabilities Act, accommodation plans under 29 U.S.C. §§ 794 and 705(20), and individualized health care plans;

• The student’s suspension from school;

• Family illness or death supported by a written letter from the parent upon the student’s return to school;

• Visits to post-secondary educational institutions;

• Interviews with a prospective employer or with an admissions officer of an institution of higher education;

• Examination for a driver's license;

• Take Our Children to Work Day

• Observance of Veterans Day

• Participation in district board of election activities

• Attendance at a civic event (1 day per school year)

• IDEA accommodations

• An absence considered excused by a New Jersey Department of Education rule;