Section of Letter From The Assistant Commissioner Of Education Explaining Public Hearing Requirement

To: District Superintendents
Superintendents of Schools
Administrators of Nonpublic Schools
From: James R. Butterworth

Subject: New Regulations on Pupil Attendance

At its October meeting, the Board of Regents amended section 104.1 of the Regulations of the Commissioner concerning pupil attendance. This action represents the culmination of over two years of work which included individual and group consultation with attendance practitioners, the development of recommendations by a Statewide Attendance Advisory Council, an extensive literature search and several policy discussions by the Board of Regents.

Establish a target date for a public hearing – Public school districts, BOCES, charter schools and county vocational education and extension boards must conduct at least one public hearing prior to the adoption of the Comprehensive Attendance Policy. The hearing must provide for the participation of school personnel, parents, students and other interested parties.

Attendance is a critical factor for student success in school. Consistent school attendance, improved academic performance and school completion have a positive correlation and will contribute to your efforts to assure that all of your students reach the higher standards established by the Board of Regents. If you have any questions, please contact Rebecca Gardner of the Comprehensive Health and Pupil Services Team at (518): 486-6090.