Now that we have officially begun the new school year, we’d like to share a few friendly reminders about attendance. Every day counts, and when students are on time and present, they set themselves up for success. Together, we can make sure your child gets the very best education possible.

Tips for Great Attendance:

• Plan family vacations during the summer or on school holidays.
• Arrive on time each day: school begins promptly at 8:30 a.m. (except Tuesdays, which begin at 9:13 a.m.).
• Plan ahead for traffic—please allow extra time each morning, as traffic is not an excused tardy or absence.
• Stay home only if sick—every day in class makes a difference.
• Schedule doctor appointments outside school hours whenever possible. If daytime appointments are unavoidable, please bring your student to school before and/or after their appointment.

Why Attendance Matters
Every day matters. Missing just 2 days a month can add up quickly! Students with strong attendance in the first month are more likely to stay on track all year. Let’s start strong with great attendance this year!

Thank you for making school a priority—we’re here to help! 

📞 Reporting Absences, Tardies & Early Releases
State law requires regular and punctual attendance, and all absences must be reported by a parent/guardian within 72 hours. Please use our Attendance Voicemail Line:

• 760-290-2211 – Option 1 (Absences), Option 2 (Early Releases), Option 3 (Tardies)
• 760-290-2223 (Spanish)

When leaving a message, please include your student’s:

• Full name (with spelling of last name)
• Student ID number
• Date/time of absence, tardy, or early release
• Specific reason
• Your name, relationship to student, and how your student is leaving campus (if applicable)

Early Release Notes:

• Please call at least 2 hours in advance so we can process a pass—teachers cannot release students without one.
• The last release time is 2:55 p.m.—please plan accordingly.
• Students must check out at the Attendance Office before leaving.
• If your student isn’t feeling well and needs to go home, they need to check in at the Health Office so they can coordinate their early release.

Tardies & Truancies

• Students arriving late MUST check in at the Attendance Office before going to class.
• Excused tardies/absences include illness, medical appointments, religious events, funerals, DMV/Passport, or court appearances.
• Traffic, oversleeping, and vacations are not excused.
• Excessive absences or truancies may result in a SART/SARB meeting with site administration.

Important Reminders:

• Only parents/guardians can excuse absences or tardies.
• Doctor’s notes are required for illnesses lasting 3 or more days.

Thank you for your support in helping your student succeed. We know you want the best for your child, and so do we! Together, let’s make this a year full of learning, growth, and achievement.

Warmly,

SMHS Administration & Attendance Office