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Attendance

Attendance. 

Attendance. 

Samuel Jackman Middle School firmly believes that a strong home and school partnership will help our students achieve in a positive and effective academic environment.
To that end, your assistance is critical in ensuring that your child misses as little school as possible. There is great academic value in a student being present in class, in hearing the lessons and explanations of teachers, and in discussing subjects with other students. While there may be instances when extenuating circumstances require you to pull your student out of school, please make every effort to plan any family vacations during the summer or holiday breaks.
Because family vacations are defined by California Education Code as unexcused absences, teachers may elect to provide make up work for the student,  although they are not required to do so.
⏰ Tardy Policy

⏰ Tardy Policy

Arriving on Time Matters

At Samuel Jackman Middle School, we know that a positive start to the day sets students up for success. Arriving on time helps students begin learning with their classmates, participate in important morning activities, and develop habits that support lifelong success.

When is a student considered on time?

Students are considered on time when they are inside their classroom by the first bell at 8:10 AM.
 
Students who arrive after 8:10 AM are considered tardy and must report to the Front Office to receive a late pass before going to class. This helps us accurately account for every student's attendance and ensures they arrive safely on campus.

How Families Can Help

You can help your student start the day successfully by:
  • ⏰ Planning to arrive on campus a few minutes before the 8:10 AM bell.
  • 🎒 Packing backpacks and school materials the night before.
  • 🚗 Allowing extra travel time for traffic or weather.
  • 😊 Encouraging a consistent morning routine to reduce stress and support punctuality.

Thank You for Your Partnership

Thank you for partnering with us to make punctuality a priority. By working together, we can help every River Hawk start each school day ready to learn, grow, and succeed.
Need an Early Dismissal?

Need an Early Dismissal?

We're Here to Help

We understand that medical appointments, family commitments, and other important events may require your student to leave school before the end of the day. Our goal is to make the early dismissal process as smooth, safe, and efficient as possible.
 

📞 Request an Early Dismissal

Please contact the Attendance Office in advance by calling:

📱 (916) 393-2352

Select the Attendance Office when prompted.
To help us prepare, please have the following information ready:
  • 👤 Student's full name
  • 🆔 Student ID number (if known)
  • 📝 Reason for the early dismissal
  • 🚗 Name of the person picking up the student
  • 🕒 Requested dismissal time
Once your request is received, the Attendance Office will prepare an Early Dismissal Pass for your student.
When you arrive at school:

1️⃣ Check In

Please check in at the Front Office.

2️⃣ Sign Out Your Student

Our staff will ask you to sign your student out.

3️⃣ Show Photo Identification

Please present a valid photo ID for verification.

4️⃣ Student is Called from Class

After your identity has been verified, an Early Dismissal Pass will be sent to your student's classroom. Your student will then meet you in the Front Office.
 

⏰ Help Us Minimize Classroom Disruptions

Whenever possible, please call ahead and arrive at your requested dismissal time. This allows us to prepare your student's pass in advance and helps reduce interruptions to classroom instruction.
 

💜 Student Safety Comes First

For the safety of all students, only individuals authorized through the student's emergency contact information may sign a student out of school.
Thank you for helping us maintain a safe and secure campus while supporting your student's needs.

❓Questions?

We're happy to help!
📞 Attendance Office: (916) 393-2352
Select "Attendance" when prompted.
Have an Absent Child? 

Have an Absent Child? 

If your child will be absent, please notify the Attendance Office by calling 916-393-2352 and selecting Attendance.
 
When reporting an absence, please include the following information:
  • Student's full name
  • Date of the absence
  • Reason for the absence
  • Name of the person reporting the absence
  • A contact phone number where you can be reached
Providing all of the above information helps ensure your child's absence is processed accurately and promptly.
Who Else Can You Find in Student Services?

Who Else Can You Find in Student Services?

Here to Support Every Student
The Student Services team is dedicated to helping students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. Whether you have questions about attendance, enrollment, counseling, or specialized services, we're here to help every step of the way.
 

🏫 School Office Technicians

Our School Office Technicians are often the first point of contact for students and families. They assist with:
  • ✔️ Student attendance
  • ✔️ Early dismissals and late arrivals
  • ✔️ Student cumulative records
  • ✔️ Communication between families and school staff
  • ✔️ General student and family support

📋 Data Processor / Registrar

Our Data Processor supports student enrollment and records by:
  • ✔️ Enrolling new students
  • ✔️ Processing student withdrawals
  • ✔️ Assisting with student schedules
  • ✔️ Working closely with counselors to support student needs
 

🎓 School Counselors

Our counselors are here to support students throughout their middle school journey by providing:
  • ✔️ Academic planning and course guidance
  • ✔️ Social-emotional support
  • ✔️ Conflict resolution and problem-solving
  • ✔️ College and career awareness
  • ✔️ Referrals to additional school and community resources

🧠 School Psychologist

Our School Psychologist partners with students, families, and staff by:
  • ✔️ Supporting students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
  • ✔️ Participating in Student Success Team (SST) meetings
  • ✔️ Assisting with evaluations and student support services
  • ✔️ Helping students access appropriate educational resources
.

💬 Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

Our Speech-Language Pathologist works with students who have speech and language goals by:
  • ✔️ Providing speech-language therapy services
  • ✔️ Supporting students with communication needs
  • ✔️ Collaborating with teachers and families
  • ✔️ Monitoring progress toward IEP goals