The Impact of Chronic Absences on Academic Success: A Comprehensive Guide

Chronic absences can greatly impact a student's academic success, but it all depends on the circumstances surrounding the absences, the school policies, and the steps taken to make up missed work. This article explores the factors that determine whether a student will fail school due to 70 absences in a year.

Understanding the Factors

School Policies and Excused Absences

School policies vary widely, and the impact of absences can depend on whether they are excused or unexcused. For example, an absence might be excused if it is due to a medical condition, family emergency, or another valid reason. In such cases, the student might still need to catch up on missed work. If the absences are unexcused, the situation can be more critical and may lead to disciplinary actions or failure in the class.

The Role of Completed Assignments

Completing and submitting assignments on time is crucial. A parent or guardian may need to pick up and drop off the class assignments for the student during their absence. If these tasks are not completed and submitted by the deadline, it can significantly affect the student's academic standing. The example of the author's daughter illustrates how even with medical absences, timely submission of assignments can help a student catch up and pass the class.

Real-Life Examples and Advice

Success Despite Absences

It's possible to maintain academic success even with a significant number of absences, provided that the absences are excused and the student makes up the missed work. One example is a senior in high school who was absent for 84 days due to illness but still managed to graduate and gain acceptance to every college they applied to. This demonstrates that good academic performance and strong support systems can mitigate the negative effects of chronic absences.

Challenges and Consequences

On the other hand, unexcused absences, particularly in high numbers, can be detrimental. As one person pointed out, an individual with 70 absences may face challenges such as financial assistance due to unemployment and the inability to get a job. Furthermore, such individuals may also struggle with formal education and may need to take steps to improve their situation, such as attending school and completing assignments on time.

Conclusion

To ensure academic success despite chronic absences, parents, guardians, and students should:

Ensure absences are excused if possible Make arrangements for picking up and submitting assignments Communicate proactively with teachers and school staff

By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, students can maintain their academic performance, even in the face of unforeseen challenges.