Woodland clarifies parent handbook: vacations will not be excused absences going forward
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Summary
The board discussed a handbook clarification to align with state rules that vacation days are not excused absences; the change will treat vacations as unexcused going forward and be reflected in next year's handbook.
Board members discussed a change to the parent and student handbook clarifying that vacations will no longer be listed as excused absences and will be recorded as unexcused. The board said the change aligns the handbook with state guidance; administration said the district had previously allowed vacations to be excused but the state of Illinois does not recognize vacation days as excused.
At the meeting a board member asked whether this was a substantive change or simply an alignment with existing policy; administration said it was an alignment for the handbook and that, "vacations will no longer be considered valid cause." Board members noted they would want parents to be aware that next school year vacation days will be unexcused.
No separate vote was recorded; the item was presented as a written report and board members requested awareness-raising for parents prior to the change taking effect.