Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions regarding attendance or need further clarification on attendance policies/practices please contact Jackie Winter, Assistant Principal @ 414-525-8503 or via email at jwinter@whitnall.com

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Where can I find written information on school attendance policies?
The Whitnall School District Board Policy on student attendance is found in the WHS Student Handbook on pages 29-39.

Who do I call regarding attendance?
Tracy Rink is your contact at WHS. Her extension is 525-8513. Her email is trink@whitnall.com

Can I write a note or make a phone call as a parent to excuse an absence for any reason?
Not all absences, even if a phone call or note accompanies the absence, are considered excused. Although we appreciate your communication, the following are considered School Board approved, excused absences:

• Personal illness
• Funerals
• Required legal appearances
• Designated religious holiday appearances
• Medical or dental appointments
• Family emergencies
• Driver Examinations
• Prior approved absences that have been deemed educationally beneficial to the student by the principal or designee

Is there a limit of the number of excused absences we have as a family for our child?
Yes. Wisconsin State Statutes allow a parent/guardian up to 10 days of excused absences. We would appreciate this information prior to the student's absence. Absences beyond the allotted 10 days may be required to have written documentation provided to be considered excused. It is always best to call 525-8513 if you have any questions.

How long do I have to call in or provide a note to the attendance office to excuse an absence, provided the absence is a Board excused absence?
The WHS Student Handbook, page 41, reads, Parents and legal guardians have 72 hours [or 3 school calendar days] from the date of an absence to verify this absence as "excused" or it will be entered "unexcused." All attendance verifications will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the attendance office at 525-8513 if you need further assistance.

What is the procedure for first hour tardies?
Students who arrive before 7:30, should report directly to their classroom. After 7:30, students should report to the office for a pass. Parents should call or send a note regarding tardies.

How are tardies to to other hours handled?
Teachers track tardies to their classes and assign appropriate consequences. After 4 tardies to a class, students are referred to administration. Failure to serve a detention with a teacher usually results in a referral to the office for the student to be issued an office detention.