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Attendance Policy

The Clarence Central School District's calendar/handbook includes information regarding the attendance policy. 

We believe that consistent school attendance plays a large role in student success as does the commitment to a collaborative home and school partnership! 

Arriving on Time & Tardy Information 

It is essential that students arrive on time each day to set the tone for a successful day of learning. The school day begins promptly at 8:05 a.m. Students should be dropped off no later than 7:55 a.m. This allows time to unpack, settle in, and be ready for learning when instruction begins.

Students arriving after 8:05 a.m. will be marked tardy. Families should park in the front of the building and walk their child to the main entrance. Students must check in at the Main Office and receive a pass before heading to their classroom.

Reporting an Absence

If your child will be absent, families must notify the Attendance Office by:

📞 Phone: (716) 407-9150

OR
📧 Email: CCEOffice@clarenceschools.org

Please include:

  • Child’s name
  • Reason for the absence
  • Date(s) of absence

Daily Attendance Procedures

Classroom teachers take attendance each morning. If the Attendance Office has not been notified of a student’s absence, an automated call will be sent to the family to communicate the absence.

Monitoring Attendance & Supporting Success

As part of our commitment to your child’s educational growth and success, we regularly monitor attendance patterns. Every absence, regardless of the reason, represents time away from valuable academic instruction, classroom discussions, peer collaboration, and social experiences that support student growth.

At the elementary level, families of students experiencing chronic absenteeism will receive an attendance letter at the end of each trimester. These letters are intended to raise awareness, encourage partnership, and provide support to help ensure students attend school consistently and have every opportunity to succeed. 

Missed Learning for Unexcused Absences 

Families should not expect teachers to provide assignments or prepare work in advance for unexcused absences, including family vacations. Many classroom learning experiences involve direct instruction, hands-on activities, collaboration with classmates, discussion, and teacher feedback—opportunities that cannot be replicated through packets or independent assignments.

For extended absences, teachers may encourage students to continue reading grade-level appropriate materials to support literacy skills. When students return, teachers will help them reconnect with classroom learning, review essential concepts, and complete any necessary make-up work as appropriate.

Family Practices That Support Student Success

  • Establish and maintain daily routines that include completing homework, preparing materials for the next school day, and ensuring your child gets a good night’s sleep.
  • Arrive on time each morning, no later than 7:55 a.m., so your child can begin the day calmly and confidently. 8:05am is the official start to the school day. Instruction begins and students are expected to be ready for learning.
  • Avoid scheduling vacations or appointments during the school day whenever possible, as missed instructional time can be difficult to replicate.