Attendance

At Port City Academy, showing up every day is how our students live out the values of all seven Houses. Attendance is more than being present, it is an opportunity to practice Courage by facing challenges head-on, Responsibility by honoring commitments, and Respect by valuing time together in the classroom.

Every day at school also builds Perseverance through consistent effort, strengthens Self-Discipline by keeping routines, and reflects Integrity by doing what is right even when it is not easy. Through our Pillars of Unity: Compassion, Cooperation, and Empathy, students learn that showing up supports not only their own growth, but also the success of their House and their peers.

We understand that absences may sometimes be necessary, but our calendar provides breaks that allow families to schedule personal needs without losing momentum. By making daily attendance a priority, every Puma contributes to a culture of excellence and unity where all can thrive.

California Education Code Section 48200 requires that every child between the ages of 6 and 18 attend school each day and for the full length of the school day unless excused under state law. This also applies to students who are enrolled in transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, or who remain in school past the age of 18.

Attendance is expected from the opening bell until dismissal. When a student misses part of the day without a valid excuse, it is considered a partial day absence.

If a student accumulates 3 unexcused absences or tardies of 30 minutes or more, they may be identified as truant under state law. Continued unexcused absences can lead to a student being classified as habitually truant, and in more serious cases, referrals may be made to a School Attendance Review Team (SART), School Attendance Review Board (SARB), or even the courts.

Making daily attendance a priority helps students stay on track academically, avoid legal complications, and build the foundation for future success.

In addition to California’s Compulsory Attendance Law, Port City Academy requires students to be present at least 90 percent of the time that school is in session in order to earn credit and remain in good standing. This applies to all absences, whether excused or unexcused.

When a student’s attendance falls below 90 percent, families will be contacted by the school. This may include an Excessive Absence Letter, an Attendance Recovery Letter, or phone calls home to discuss attendance. In some cases, low attendance can also affect a student’s grades or promotion to the next grade level. 

Students who attend between 75 and 90 percent of the time may still earn credit by completing a plan approved by the principal. This plan ensures that missed instructional requirements are met, often through Attendance Recovery or other structured supports.

If a student attends fewer than 75 percent of school days, or does not complete the approved plan, the school’s Attendance Review Committee will determine whether there are extenuating circumstances and outline next steps for regaining credit.

Consistent attendance is key to academic growth, and we are committed to partnering with families to help every student succeed.

At Port City Academy, funding is based on Average Daily Attendance (ADA). This means our charter school receives dollars only for the students who are present each day, not just the number enrolled. Strong attendance ensures we have the resources needed to provide high-quality programs, staff support, and family engagement opportunities.

At PCA, ADA funding helps us provide:

• One-on-one instructional aides who support students with special needs

• Enrichment opportunities such as sports, arts, and clubs

• Family engagement events that build community connections

• Academic interventions and tutoring for students who need extra support

• Materials and supplies that make learning more engaging and hands-on
  
  

When students attend every day, they benefit individually, and together we strengthen the whole school community by keeping these resources available for all Pumas.

At Port City Academy, we know that sometimes absences cannot be avoided. Attendance Recovery gives students the chance to make up missed instructional time so they can stay on track for academic success and maintain credit for their classes.

Attendance Recovery sessions are designed to be positive and productive. Students participate in meaningful learning activities led by certificated teaching staff. These sessions allow students to:

• Recover lost instructional time

• Catch up on important lessons and assignments

• Build consistent attendance habits

• Stay connected with peers and teachers
  
  

To receive Attendance Recovery credit, students must attend the entire scheduled session during ELOP Friday. Families will be notified when their child qualifies or is recommended for Attendance Recovery, and details will be provided about session dates and times.

By participating in Attendance Recovery, students not only meet attendance requirements but also demonstrate perseverance and responsibility, values at the heart of our House System.