Phillip EdwinIn Texas, the number of absences a student can have is governed by two distinct but interconnected rules: the 90% attendance rule for course credit and the compulsory attendance law for legal consequences. Understanding both is essential for parents and students navigating the Texas public school system.
How Many Absences Are Allowed In A School Year Texas
The 90% Rule: The Limit for Course Credit
The most significant limit on absences comes from the 90% attendance rule, established under Texas Education Code § 25.092. This rule states that a student must attend a class for at least 90% of the days it is offered to receive credit or a final grade. Importantly, this applies to all absences, whether they are excused or unexcused.
In a standard 180-day school year, 90% attendance means a student can miss no more than 18 days of a year-long course. For semester-long courses, the limit is approximately 8 to 9 days.
Many school districts simplify this by warning parents that elementary students cannot miss more than 17 days of school per year. For high school students on block schedules, the limits per class are often lower, sometimes as few as 4 to 5 absences per semester for certain periods.
Recovery Options
If a student falls below 90% attendance, they may still be able to earn credit under certain circumstances:
– If attendance is between 75% and 90%: The student may complete a “Principal’s Plan” approved by the principal to meet instructional requirements.
– If attendance drops below 75%: The student must appeal to a Campus Attendance Review Committee.
The Compulsory Attendance Law: The Limit for Legal Action
Separate from the 90% rule, the compulsory attendance law sets limits that trigger legal consequences. Under Texas law, children aged 6 to 19 are required to attend school each day.
A student may be referred to truancy court if they have:
– 3 or more unexcused absences within a four-week period, or
– 10 or more unexcused absences within a six-month period
Truant conduct can result in:
– For students: Fines up to $100 and potential driver’s license suspension.
– For parents: Fines starting at $100 for the first offense, increasing with each subsequent charge.
Excused vs. Unexcused Absences
The distinction between excused and unexcused absences is critical. While excused absences do not count toward truancy (the 10-day limit), they do count toward the 90% rule for course credit.
Examples of Excused Absences
– Observance of a religious holy day
– Court appearances
– Healthcare appointments (with documentation)
– College visits (up to 2 days per year for juniors and seniors)
– Visiting an active-duty military parent (up to 5 days)
– Enlistment proceedings (up to 4 days for students 17 and older)
Most school districts also accept a limited number of parent notes per year—for example, up to 5 days in some districts. Additionally, Texas law allows up to 5 excused absences per year for mental or behavioral health reasons without a doctor’s note.
Exempt Absences (Do Not Count Toward the 90% Rule)
Certain absences are exempt from the 90% rule:
– Healthcare appointments with documentation
– Religious holy days
– Required court appearances
– College visits (limited)
– Military family activities
– Other specific circumstances under state law
Summary: How Many Absences Are Allowed?
Type of Absence | Limit | Consequence
| Absence Type | Threshold | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Total absences (excused + unexcused) | 17–18 days per year (≈8–9 per semester) | Loss of course credit |
| Unexcused absences | 10 within 6 months | Truancy court referral, fines, driver’s license suspension |
| Unexcused absences | 3 within 4 weeks | Truancy intervention |
Practical Advice for Parents and Students
1. Track all absences, not just unexcused ones. Even excused absences add up toward the 90% limit.
2. Obtain documentation for healthcare appointments, court appearances, and other excused absences to ensure they are properly recorded.
3. Communicate with the school if your child is approaching the 90% limit. Recovery plans may be available.
4. Plan ahead for college visits and family trips so they are accounted for and, where possible, excused.
Disclaimer: Attendance policies may vary slightly by school district. Always consult your school’s student handbook for the most current and specific policies.