This bill amends section 1003.26 of the Florida Statutes to enhance the enforcement of school attendance and address chronic absenteeism among students. It requires that if a student has at least 5 unexcused absences or absences with unknown reasons within a month, or 10 such absences within a 90-day period, the student's primary teacher must report this to the principal. Additionally, if a student is absent for 10% of school days within the first 45 days of the school year, the teacher must also report the student as chronically absent. The principal is then tasked with referring the case to the school's child study team to assess if a pattern of nonattendance is developing.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the State Board of Education to create guidelines for school districts regarding student absences, which will include policies for determining and accounting for excused and unexcused absences. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025. The changes aim to promote better attendance habits and improve overall student performance by ensuring timely intervention and support for students exhibiting patterns of absenteeism.

Statutes affected:
S 938 Filed: 1003.26