Pre-Approved Absences

Purpose and Philosophy

At Cambridge High School, we believe that consistent attendance supports academic growth, belonging, and long-term success. Our BRAVE values—Belonging, Responsibility, Accountability, Voice, and Engagement—guide how we approach learning and community.

We understand that occasionally, students and families may need to miss school for meaningful, pre-planned reasons. When that happens, we aim to partner with families to make the process clear, responsible, and supportive of student success.

Request Process

1. Request pre-approved absence by emailing teachers and chsattendance@fultonschools.org at least three (3) days before submitting the pre-approval form
2. Student completes the Pre-Approved Absence Request Form (digital or paper) with a parent/guardian written justification and signature.
4. Submit the form to the Attendance Office no later than three (3) days before the first requested absence
5. Administration will review. If it is not approved, you will be notified by the attendance office with the next steps. 
6. If approved, attendance is marked excused; the student remains responsible for all missed work

Annual Limit

Students may request up to 5 days of pre-approved absences per semester, totaling 10 days per school year. Requests beyond 5 days in a semester will require an extended administrative review and are unlikely to be approved unless exceptional circumstances apply (e.g., family emergency, military leave, immigration processing).

Acceptable Criteria for Pre-Approval

Pre-approved absences may be considered for:

• Religious or cultural observances
• College or career exploration
• Family milestone events (e.g., funerals, weddings, military ceremonies)
• Extraordinary life events with documentation

Requests for family vacations, birthday trips, or events of convenience will not be approved.

Partnering with Students and Families

We ask students and families to reflect on the importance of school attendance while planning any pre-approved absence. As part of the process, the student will be asked to:

• Briefly explain the reason for the absence
• Consider how they will stay on track with assignments or learning
• Acknowledge that instructional time cannot be fully replicated and that missed work is their responsibility

This reflection is not a test—it’s a way to help students stay connected and engaged.

Teacher Notification

Students must notify their teachers of the intended absence at least 3 school days before submitting the request form. This ensures transparency and allows teachers to raise major conflicts or considerations.

Students or families should:

• Email all teachers with the subject line: 'Pre-Approved Absence Notification – [Student Name]'
• CC the student’s counselor and the Attendance Office at chsattendance@fultonschools.org

This notification does not imply approval but supports better communication and shared understanding.

Important Reminders

• Absences during the last few weeks of a semester will not be approved
• Extended absences (10+ days) may require withdrawal and re-enrollment
• Approval is not automatic. Each request is considered with care, and decisions are based on the criteria outlined here.