One of the indicators of excellence, that Lynchburg City Schools has chosen to focus on in the division Comprehensive Plan, is attendance.  The importance we place on school attendance in the early years set the stage for routines and habits the student will adhere to as they progresses throughout their educational experience.

The services your child receives and the progress they make is directly influenced by parental involvement and student attendance. If your child is not in school, they cannot benefit from the services offered through their IEP. You as the parent are responsible to ensure that your child is in attendance during his/her scheduled services times. With your help we anticipate your child will make great strides towards meeting their IEP goals. The new attendance policy for the Hutcherson Early Learning Program is outlined below.

• After two unexcused absences the parents will receive a note from the classroom teacher to inquire about the absences.
• After three unexcused absences the teacher will make a phone call to inquire about the absences.
• After four unexcused absences the teacher and the principal will make a home visit to discuss the excessive absences.

An absence is unexcused if it is not due to personal illness, a death or serious illness in the immediate family, or conditions beyond the control of the student, parent/guardian or the school. Absences will be excused if the student brings a signed note from the parent within one day of the missed time. Phone calls and e-mails will not be accepted.  If the student does not bring a note the absence will be recorded as unexcused.

Please have your child to school on time as their tardiness disrupts the classroom routine. Early dismissals should also be avoided unless it is an emergency. "In all cases of tardiness to school or early dismissals, students must present that day a written note from the parent to the school stating the reason for the tardiness or early dismissal." (LCS Parent/Student Handbook)  Excused tardy or early dismissals are granted for: personal illness, a death or serious illness in the immediate family, or conditions beyond the control of the student, parent/guardian or the school.   Students who do not complete one-half of their school day will be counted as absent. Please help us teach our children the importance of being on time to school each day and remaining in school until dismissal. Together we can set the stage for future success by creating habits that will follow them throughout their school experience.