When sickness or other obligation necessitates an absence, a note signed by the parent/guardian explaining the reason for the absence is required. If a student fails to submit a note, the absence will be considered unexcused. Dallas ISD encourages students to submit an excuse note within three days of the student's return to school.
It is very important to send a note because the absence will be unexcused if a parent/guardian fails to provide a note within the semester in which the absence occurred. Unexcused absences are what triggers the warning letters regarding violation of truancy laws and can lead to truancy court proceedings with Dallas County.
Click here to download a blank excuse note (optional).
How to Submit an Excuse Note:
According to Dallas ISD Policy, parents should turn in an excuse note to the school attendance office within three days of returning to school.
An acceptable excuse note may be submitted within the current semester.
Excuse notes must include:
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Student name
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I.D. number
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A written statement giving the date and reason for the absence(s)
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Parent/guardian signature
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Parent phone number
What types of absences may be excused?
- Child’s illness or injury
- Family emergency with administration approval
- Death of a family member
- Doctor or dental appointments that cannot be scheduled before or after school hours
- Religious holy days
- Court appearances
*Please note: If a student is absent, parents should always submit an excuse note to the main office when the student returns to school. Excuse notes should have student's name, grade, date of absence, reason, and parent's signature. Click here to download a blank excuse/absence note (optional).