OJAI : Parent Challenges Attendance Policy
A strict policy on attendance and tardiness that prompted a student demonstration at Nordhoff High School in Ojai several weeks ago has been challenged as illegal.
Marsha Chandler, parent of two students, said lowering a grade as punishment for unexcused absences violates the California Education Code.
Under the school policy, if a student is absent more than seven times for any reason except school-sponsored activities, the student’s grade is lowered by one letter. If a student is absent more than 12 times, the grade is lowered by two letters. After more than 14 absences, a student is automatically given an F for the semester.
Chandler said the courts have ruled that students have a limited property interest in their grades.
“This means that before a grade can be changed, the student, teacher and parent have a right to due process of law, including a hearing before the school board where findings must be made,” Chandler said.
But school officials maintain that the policy is legal. It was adopted more than 10 years ago.
“It’s been reviewed by counsel, and his preliminary opinion is that the attendance policy meets legal requirements,” Supt. Andrew Smidt said.
Because of the policy, Nordhoff’s 5% absenteeism rate is one of the lowest in the state, Smidt said.
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