Cumberland County Schools Announces Revised Attendance Policy to Address Chronic Absenteeism
New Policy Now in Effect as of January 1, 2025
FAYETTEVILLE, NC — Cumberland County Schools (CCS) is taking bold steps to combat chronic absenteeism with the implementation of a revised attendance policy, which went into effect on January 1, 2025, for high school students. The updated policy, which communicates clear expectations regarding procedures for absences and emphasizes the importance of consistent school attendance, is part of the district’s ongoing effort to address rising absenteeism rates and improve student outcomes. The policy will be fully implemented at the start of the 2025-2026 school year when elementary and middle schools begin implementation.
Key Details of the Revised Policy 4400 Attendance:
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Parent/Guardian Notes: Elementary and middle school students are limited to ten parent/guardian notes to excuse an absence per year; High school students are limited to ten parent/guardian notes to excuse an absence per semester.
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Documentation Requirements: Absences will be marked unexcused unless a parent/guardian or doctor’s note is submitted within five days of the student’s return.
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Excessive Absences: Students accumulating more than 20 unexcused absences risk being retained (grades K-5) or failing a course (grades 6-12). Students with excused absences due to documented chronic health problems are exempted from this policy.
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Waiver Process: If a student has accumulated more than 20 unexcused absences, a parent/guardian may request from the school social worker a waiver for extenuating circumstances or legitimate illnesses.
“Our goal is to ensure students are present and engaged in the classroom every day,” said Dr. Melody Chalmers McClain, associate superintendent for Student Support Services. “This policy is designed to promote accountability while providing support to families facing challenges.”
The research underscores the critical link between attendance and academic success:
- Students who are chronically absent in early grades are less likely to read proficiently by the end of third grade—a vital milestone for long-term success (Attendance Works).
- By sixth grade, chronic absenteeism becomes a leading predictor of high school dropouts (Baltimore Education Research Consortium).
The urgency is clear. In Cumberland County Schools, chronic absenteeism has surged to 34.5% in 2023, which is a 72.5% increase from pre-pandemic levels (MyFutureNC). The chronic absenteeism rate in Cumberland County is also 23.9% higher than the North Carolina rate.
This policy builds upon the district’s September 2024 Attendance Awareness Month campaign, which spotlighted the importance of consistent attendance through collaboration with families, educators, and community stakeholders. The district’s holistic approach includes:
- Targeted dropout prevention programs.
- Enhanced truancy support services.
- Recovery initiatives for students who have fallen behind.
The campaign highlighted the systemic barriers many students face, such as transportation challenges, food insecurity, and mental health concerns. By addressing these underlying issues alongside implementing stricter attendance policies, CCS aims to create a more supportive and equitable environment for all students.
“Every day a student is in school is a day closer to achieving their dreams,” Dr. McClain said. “Together, we can ensure our students thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.”
For more information on the revised attendance policy or resources to support consistent attendance, families may visit the district’s attendance website or contact their child’s school.
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