The Western Dubuque County Community School District (WDCCSD) believes that consistent, in-person school attendance provides the greatest learning opportunities for students. Students who are present and engaged take greater ownership of their educational outcomes. For this reason, WDCCSD prioritizes regular attendance and works to reduce barriers that prevent students from being in school.
With recent legislative changes from the 2024 session (Senate File 2435) and updated guidance from the Iowa Department of Education, WDCCSD is providing families with the following overview of expectations regarding student attendance.
Definition of Chronic Absenteeism
Under Senate File 2435, chronic absenteeism is defined as missing more than 10% of the days or hours in a grading period set by a public school.
Required District Actions
When a student misses 10% of hours in a trimester (about 6 days)
WDCCSD will send notice by email to the Dubuque County Attorney’s Office.
Parents/guardians will be notified by mail or email with details regarding the absences and related policies.
Family trips and vacations may be excused locally, but state law requires them to be counted toward chronic absenteeism and truancy.
When a student misses 15% of hours in a trimester (about 9 days)
School officials will investigate the cause and request a school engagement meeting with stakeholders.
If the student and parent/guardian do not attend the meeting, decline to enter into a plan, or violate the plan, the county attorney will be notified.
The district will issue an Absenteeism Prevention Plan as a working document to guide expectations moving forward.
When a student misses 20% of hours in a trimester (about 12 days)
Truancy is defined as a child of compulsory attendance age absent for at least 20% of the trimester’s hours for non-exempt reasons.
If the student and parent/guardian fail to comply with the Absenteeism Prevention Plan, the school will notify the county attorney.
Exemptions
Certain absences do not count toward chronic absenteeism or truancy, including when students:
Complete requirements for graduation or obtain a high school equivalency diploma.
Are excused by a court or judge (e.g., jury duty).
Attend religious services or receive religious instruction.
Miss school for legitimate medical reasons.
Have attendance impacted by an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 plan.
Participate in military entrance processing or service.
Attend a funeral or wedding.
Are excused under Iowa Code §§299.22 or 299.24.
Shared Responsibility
Attendance is a shared responsibility requiring cooperation among families, students, and schools. WDCCSD is committed to providing resources and support to help overcome barriers to daily attendance.
We also recognize that unavoidable situations—such as extended illness, hospitalization, or the loss of a loved one—may occur. In such cases, the district will work closely with families to ensure a safe and successful return to school while adhering to legal requirements.
Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting student success. Consistent attendance is vital for both academic achievement and social development.