ACADEMY STAFF REPORT RECOMMENDATION
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Discuss, consider and act regarding WA Resolution 25-08 approving updates to and adopting the Westlake Academy Attendance Policy (Dr. Kelly Ritchie, Head of School)
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STAFF: Dr. Kelly Ritchie, Head of School
BACKGROUND:
The Westlake Academy Attendance Policy was last revised in August 2016. Following a recent review, the Administration identified the need to update the policy to better reflect the school's current procedures and to ensure alignment with the most recent guidelines set forth by the Texas Education Agency.
DISCUSSION:
Regular and consistent attendance is essential for academic success at Westlake Academy. Frequent absences, tardies, or early departures significantly impact a student's ability to achieve satisfactory academic performance. These disruptions often result in additional after-school commitments for students and teachers, for the student to complete make-up work and catch up on missed instructional content.
In addition, student absences not only hinder the learning progress of the individual student but also disrupt the instructional flow for the entire class. When students arrive late, leave early, or miss school entirely, it affects the overall classroom environment and the teacher's ability to maintain a consistent and effective learning schedule.
To support improved student attendance and reduce the number of absences, tardies, and truancies, the Administration has refined our attendance policies. We strongly emphasize the importance of collaboration between the school, parents, and students to ensure these expectations are met.
Additionally, it is important to note that a significant portion of Westlake Academy's funding from the Texas Education Agency is directly tied to student attendance. High rates of absenteeism and tardiness can negatively impact the school's overall budget and its ability to provide quality educational resources.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact.
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