Mississippi Department of Education updates attendance policy for upcoming school year

The Mississippi Department of Education has updated its student attendance requirements for this upcoming school year.

Students will receive up to five unexcused absences per semester. A medical excuse will also be required after three consecutive absences due to illness or injury.

Additional excused absences beyond the semester limit requires principal approval.

Students must also attend 66 percent of the school day to be counted as present. Students also cannot participate in school-sponsored activities if absent more than 33 percent of the day.

Once a student reaches five unexcused absences during the year, the absences must be reported to the school attendance officer.