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SSB 1077

A bill for an act modifying provisions related to compulsory education, truancy, and chronic absenteeism.

2025-2026 Regular Session

SF 277 expands excused absences for students, improves communication with families, and adjusts engagement meetings to better support academic progress.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 277.
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Bill Summary · SSB 1077

Summary of SSB 1077 (Renumbered as SF 277)

Purpose and Intent

SSB 1077, now known as SF 277, aims to modify existing provisions related to compulsory education, truancy, and chronic absenteeism in schools. The bill seeks to clarify the circumstances under which absences are considered excused and to streamline communication between schools and families regarding student attendance.

Key Provisions

  1. Expanded Exceptions for Absences:

    • The bill adds new categories of acceptable absences that will not count against a child's attendance record. These include:
      • Undergoing military entrance processing
      • Engaging in military service
      • Traveling to attend a funeral
      • Traveling to attend a wedding
    • Absences due to these activities will not be classified as truancy for children of compulsory attendance age.

  2. Notification Process:

    • Current law requires that when a child becomes chronically absent, a school official must send a notice via certified mail to the child's parent or guardian. The bill allows for more flexible communication methods, including:
      • Ordinary mail
      • Electronic mail
      • Electronic messages
      • In-person delivery
    • Schools must maintain a copy of the notice sent.

  3. Engagement Meetings:

    • Under current law, if a child is absent for 15% or more of the days in a grading period, a school official must attempt to identify the cause of the absences and initiate a school engagement meeting.
    • The new bill stipulates that such meetings are only required if the school official determines that the absences are negatively impacting the child's academic progress.

Affected Parties

  • Students: The bill primarily affects students of compulsory attendance age, particularly those who may be absent due to military obligations or family events.
  • Parents and Guardians: Changes in notification methods aim to improve communication with families regarding their children's attendance.
  • School Officials: The bill alters the responsibilities of school officials in managing attendance and engaging with families.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: January 30, 2025
  • Committee Actions:
    • The bill was approved by a committee on February 11, 2025, and subsequently renumbered as SF 277.
    • A subcommittee recommended its passage on February 5, 2025, following a meeting on February 3, 2025.

Conclusion

SSB 1077 (SF 277) represents a significant update to the laws governing compulsory education and truancy. By expanding the list of excused absences and modifying notification and engagement processes, the bill aims to create a more supportive environment for students and families while ensuring that educational progress is prioritized.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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