August 27, 2025

HHS and HVRT Attendance Policy Updates

We’re off to a fantastic start at Holland High School and Holland Virtual Tech, and it’s been great to see students reconnect, engage, and settle into a strong first week of the 2025–2026 school year!

As part of Holland Public Schools’ ongoing commitment to student success, both HHS and HVRT will implement updates to how attendance is recorded, following the recommendations of the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District (OAISD). These changes are designed to better support student learning and ensure high expectations for attendance.

Attendance Updates

Beginning this school year, absences will be recorded as:

  • Absence Confirmed/Called in (AC): When a parent or guardian contacts the school. Families are encouraged to communicate absences or appointments with the HHS Attendance Office using Remind.

  • Absence Not confirmed/Not called in (AN): When no communication is received from a parent or guardian.

  • Late Arrival Confirmed (LAC): When a student is entering the building for the first time that day, and the school has been contacted by a parent or guardian.

  • Late Arrival Not confirmed (LAN): When a student is entering the building for the first time that day, without communication from a parent or guardian.

  • Tardy (T): When a student arrives late to class after already being in the building.

This update shifts away from an “excused vs. unexcused” system to one that focuses on overall attendance patterns. We know that every day in school matters—even excused absences mean lost learning time. By tracking patterns more clearly, we can identify students who may need extra support and partner with families to build consistent, positive attendance habits.

Exceptions will continue to apply for medical needs, school-related activities, and other special circumstances.

Athlete Attendance

HHS athletes are reminded that they must be present for at least half of their school day (3 out of 6 classes) in order to participate in practices or contests. Students should check with their coach first, and then with the Athletic Department if questions arise.

Moving Forward Together

This new attendance approach allows HHS and HVRT to focus less on excuses and more on ensuring students are in class, learning, and thriving.

We’re grateful for your partnership in helping every student attend, engage, and succeed every day.

👉 View the full HHS Attendance Policy at this link

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