Regular school attendance is essential for your child’s academic growth and the development of lifelong habits of responsibility and commitment. Children are expected to attend school each day unless they are ill. We strongly encourage families to schedule vacations and appointments when school is not in session, as consistent attendance supports your child’s overall success in school.

Excessive absences may lead to academic concerns, including the possibility of grade retention. In cases of chronic absenteeism, the school may be required to file documentation with the Municipal Court for truancy.

If your child is going to be absent, please call the Rodgers School Attendance Line at 856-652-2700, extension 5111, to report the absence. If a call is not received, the school nurse may contact you to confirm the reason for the absence. Upon returning to school, your child must bring a written note to their teacher explaining the reason for the absence. Documentation for illness must be submitted within five school days of the student’s return or the absence will be considered unexcused. If your child is absent for three or more consecutive days, a doctor’s note may be requested. However, please note that while a doctor’s note explains the absence, it does not automatically excuse it under state guidelines.

The J. Harvey Rodgers School follows all attendance policies and expectations set forth by the New Jersey Department of Education. While public education for children under the age of six is considered noncompulsory, once a child is enrolled in school, families are required to follow state attendance regulations. Student attendance directly impacts school funding and program support. After ten absences, a mandatory conference with the building principal will be scheduled, and if the child is six years old, truancy documentation may be submitted to the Municipal Court.

Students are expected to arrive by 8:40 A.M. To be considered present, a student must be in school for a minimum of four hours. Teaching children the value of punctuality and consistent attendance at an early age sets the tone for future success.