School board revises attendance policy for grades 9 to 11 amid teacher concerns

The Caswell County Schools Board of Education held a regular meeting on July 14, 2025, where key discussions centered around student attendance policies and the management of absences.

A significant topic was the challenges teachers face in tracking student attendance, particularly distinguishing between excused and unexcused absences. Board members acknowledged that the process can be burdensome for staff, especially when dealing with medical hardships. One member noted that while attendance is crucial, it should not overly complicate the teachers' workload.

The board discussed the impact of attendance on student performance, with some members expressing concern that students could achieve high grades despite missing several days of school. This led to a proposal to amend the attendance policy for grades 9 to 11, suggesting that attendance should not affect grades in certain circumstances. The motion to revise the policy was passed with a vote of 5 to 2.

Additionally, the board addressed parking issues at the schools, noting that many students parked inappropriately, which raised safety concerns. Plans were discussed to number parking spaces to improve organization and security.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to balancing student attendance requirements with the practical realities faced by teachers, while also addressing logistical issues within the school environment. The board plans to revisit the attendance policy in future meetings to ensure it aligns with the needs of students and staff.