Approve Request to Suspend Incentives Associated with the Current Attendance Procedures for the 2009/2010 School Year (Curriculum and Instruction Division)

During the 2008/2009 school year, our district along with the worldwide community has been challenged with the onset of the H1N1 virus, otherwise known as the swine flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) anticipates there will be more cases associated with this pandemic in the United States throughout the flu season.

To limit further spreading of the disease, the CDC has highly recommended that people who are sick with flu-like symptoms stay home and avoid contact with others. In light of the current situation and to ensure the safety of our students and staff, we are requesting approval to suspend the incentives associated with the current attendance procedures for the 2009/2010 school year. This includes exam exemptions at the middle and high school levels and the middle school academic bonus points. This will also provide an equal opportunity for students and their families to avoid stressors that may arise when attending school ill in pursuit of these academic incentives.

These modifications will not affect graduating seniors in their final semester. All district attendance policies and procedures to include incentives will continue to be reviewed at the end of each school year for any necessary revisions.

* Demonstrate "best practices" in all aspects of safety including students, employees, visitors, facilities, transportation, and health

This agenda item has no financial impact to the district.