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Compulsory Attendance

Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten

Students enrolled in pre-kindergarten or kindergarten are required to attend school and are subject to the compulsory attendance requirements as long as they remain enrolled.

Student Ages 6-18

State law requires that a student who is at least six years of age, or who is younger than six years of age has previously been enrolled in first grade, and who has not yet reached their 19th birthday, shall attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction program, extended-year program, or tutorial session, unless the student is otherwise excused from attendance or legally exempt.

State law requires a student in kindergarten-grade 2 to attend any assigned accelerated reading instruction program. Parents will be notified in writing if their child is assigned to an accelerated reading instruction program based on a diagnostic reading instrument. 

A student will be required to attend any assigned accelerated reading instruction program before or after school or during the summer if the student does not meet the passing standards on an applicable subject area state assessment.

Student Ages 19 or Older

A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his or her 19th birthday is required to attend each school day until the end of the school year. If the student incurs more than five unexcused absences in a semester, Little Elm ISD may revoke the student's enrollment. The student's resence on school property thereafter would be unauthorized and may be considered trespassing. (See policy FEA for more information)

Compulsory Attendance Exemptions

Texas state law allows exemptions to the compulsory attendance requirements for various types of absences as long as the student completes all missing assignments. Exemptions are listed below:

  • Religious holy days;
  • Required court appearances;
  • Requirements related to obtaining U.S. Citizenship;
  • Documented healthcare appointments for the student or child of the student, if the student attends school and returns after the appointment. A note from the healthcare provider must be submitted upon return to school. Campus administration may contact the healthcare provider to verify the appointment date and time. 
  • Absences for students in the conservatorship (custody) of the state;
  • An activity required under a court-ordered service plan
  • Students of military families attending military related activities
  • Serving as an election clerk
  • Sounding taps at a funeral
  • College Visits

Students MUST provide written documentation of any absences in order to be exempt.