Skip to main content

Robbinsville Public Schools

Parent Resources

Parents Resources

District Presentations

  • On August 31, district administration hosted “Back to School Updates & Leadership Introduction” parent webinar. The virutal gathering was an opportunity to meet updated district leadership, learn about the shared vision and purpose for the year, and receive essential operational updates to the upcoming school year. 

    To view the parent webinar, please click the link below. 

    RPS Back to School Updates & Leadership Introduction Webinar

    Passcode: hh!dA w8

District Attendance

Regular school attendance is one of the strongest predictors of student success. When students are present each day, they gain access to meaningful instruction, collaborative learning experiences, and opportunities for personal growth that cannot be fully replicated outside the classroom. Every lesson, discussion, and activity plays a role in building the knowledge and skills students need to thrive. This year, we are especially focused on reducing our chronic absenteeism rate, which is a state-level measure of how many students are missing too much school. Your partnership in this effort is crucial.

Consistent attendance ensures that students remain engaged in their learning and connected to their school community. In New Jersey, the state also tracks chronic absenteeism, which is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year (approximately 18 days). It is important for families to understand that all absences count toward this total, regardless of whether they are excused or unexcused, as both result in missed instructional time. Excessive absences, particularly those that are unexcused may impact academic progress and could result in the loss of course credit at the secondary level, the broader concern is the cumulative impact of time missed from the classroom.

Our district follows Board Policy/Regulation 5200, which outlines expectations for attendance, including definitions of excused and unexcused absences and the procedures for communication and intervention. We encourage families to review this policy to better understand these guidelines.

We understand that unexpected situations can occur and are committed to working with families when they arise. At the same time, maintaining regular attendance is a shared responsibility. By working together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed and make the most of their educational experience.

  • If your child will be absent, please notify the school before the start of the school day. This helps us maintain accurate records and provide appropriate support.  

    You may report an absence using either of the following methods: 

    1. Genesis Parent Portal (Grades K–12): Log in to report your child's absence under the Attendance section. For step-by-step instructions, please view our Genesis Parent Portal Attendance Reporting Guide.
    1. School Attendance Line (Grades K–12): Call your child's school attendance line:
      • Sharon Elementary School: 609-632-0960, ext. 1
      • Pond Road Middle School: 609-632-0940, ext. 1
      • Robbinsville High School: 609-632-0950, ext. 1

    When leaving a message on the attendance line, please include:

    • Your name
    • Student’s name 
    • Student’s grade
    • Homeroom teacher (for Sharon Elementary School only)
    • Reason for absence
    • Probable date of return
    • Any other pertinent information

Attendance Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as an excused absence in Robbinsville Public School District?

The Robbinsville Public School District follows State of New Jersey guidelines. Only absences specifically recognized by the State are classified as "excused." These include:

  • Religious observances
  • Participation in Veterans Day activities
  • Take Your Child to Work Day
  • College visits (grades 11–12, up to 3 days)
  • Approved civic engagement activities
  • Other limited categories defined by the State

All other absences including illness, medical appointments, and family events are recorded and handled appropriately, but are not classified as state-excused. Please refer to board approved Policy/Regulation 5200 for further guidance.

What about illness, vacations, or family events?

We always encourage families to communicate with the school when their child will be out. However, under State of New Jersey reporting requirements, these absences are not classified as "excused." Every absence regardless of reason counts toward total days missed and chronic absenteeism. This approach ensures clarity and consistency for all families and alignment with state reporting requirements. 

*If a student/family has a planned absence of 8 or more consecutive days, the parent or legal guardian is required to complete the Extended Consecutive Absence Form. 

What is the difference between excused and unexcused?

The distinction matters but not for chronic absenteeism. The classification of excused vs. unexcused is relevant for legal compliance and truancy purposes. However, both absences count equally toward total days missed when calculating chronic absenteeism.

What constitutes a full day of school?

4 hours (excluding lunch/recess/passing time)

What is the definition of tardy?

A tardy is defined as arriving late to the start of the school day and/or late to a class period. Any student arriving after the official start of the school day must sign in at the main office. 

How do tardies affect my child’s attendance records?

Accumulating three (3) tardies to school or in a specific class converts directly into one (1) absence under the attendance policy. Submitting Documentation: Parents/Legal Guardians are strongly encouraged to submit official documentation for any tardy. The documentation will remain on file and will be reviewed as needed during attendance meetings. 

 

Why am I receiving attendance letters even when I call my child out sick?

In New Jersey, all absences count toward chronic absenteeism even reported, verified ones. Attendance letters are generated automatically at certain thresholds to keep families informed. They are not a punishment; they are an early alert designed to ensure students stay on track before absences become a larger concern.

Does it matter if I report the absence?

Yes, reporting absences is still important and required under state attendance law. It ensures accurate recordkeeping, helps the school better support your child, and demonstrates communication between home and school. Please note that reporting an absence does not remove it from your child's total days missed, but it is an important part of the process and is always expected.

Why does the district send letters at specific absense milestones?

These letters are part of a state aligned notification system. The goal is to keep families informed early and create opportunities to address attendance issues before a student reaches the chronic absenteeism threshold of 18 days. They are check-in and notifications at absent day 4, day 8, and day 10 or more.

 

What if my child has legitimate reasons for frequent absences?

We understand that circumstances arise. If your child is dealing with ongoing medical concerns, family challenges, or other barriers to regular attendance, please reach out to your school directly. We can work with you to provide support, explore appropriate accommodations, and help minimize the impact on your child's learning.

What can I do to help my child maintain strong attendance?

  • Prioritize school attendance 
  • Schedule appointments outside of school hours when feasible
  • Communicate with the school early if attendance challenges arise
  • Reach out for support, we are here to help

  • What counts as an excused absence in Robbinsville Public School District?

    The Robbinsville Public School District follows State of New Jersey guidelines. Only absences specifically recognized by the State are classified as "excused." These include:

    • Religious observances
    • Participation in Veterans Day activities
    • Take Your Child to Work Day
    • College visits (grades 11–12, up to 3 days)
    • Approved civic engagement activities
    • Other limited categories defined by the State

    All other absences including illness, medical appointments, and family events are recorded and handled appropriately, but are not classified as state-excused. Please refer to board approved Policy/Regulation 5200 for further guidance.

    What about illness, vacations, or family events?

    We always encourage families to communicate with the school when their child will be out. However, under State of New Jersey reporting requirements, these absences are not classified as "excused." Every absence regardless of reason counts toward total days missed and chronic absenteeism. This approach ensures clarity and consistency for all families and alignment with state reporting requirements. 

    *If a student/family has a planned absence of 8 or more consecutive days, the parent or legal guardian is required to complete the Extended Consecutive Absence Form. 

    What is the difference between excused and unexcused?

    The distinction matters but not for chronic absenteeism. The classification of excused vs. unexcused is relevant for legal compliance and truancy purposes. However, both absences count equally toward total days missed when calculating chronic absenteeism.

    What constitutes a full day of school?

    4 hours (excluding lunch/recess/passing time)

    What is the definition of tardy?

    A tardy is defined as arriving late to the start of the school day and/or late to a class period. Any student arriving after the official start of the school day must sign in at the main office. 

    How do tardies affect my child’s attendance records?

    Accumulating three (3) tardies to school or in a specific class converts directly into one (1) absence under the attendance policy. Submitting Documentation: Parents/Legal Guardians are strongly encouraged to submit official documentation for any tardy. The documentation will remain on file and will be reviewed as needed during attendance meetings. 

     

  • Why am I receiving attendance letters even when I call my child out sick?

    In New Jersey, all absences count toward chronic absenteeism even reported, verified ones. Attendance letters are generated automatically at certain thresholds to keep families informed. They are not a punishment; they are an early alert designed to ensure students stay on track before absences become a larger concern.

    Does it matter if I report the absence?

    Yes, reporting absences is still important and required under state attendance law. It ensures accurate recordkeeping, helps the school better support your child, and demonstrates communication between home and school. Please note that reporting an absence does not remove it from your child's total days missed, but it is an important part of the process and is always expected.

    Why does the district send letters at specific absense milestones?

    These letters are part of a state aligned notification system. The goal is to keep families informed early and create opportunities to address attendance issues before a student reaches the chronic absenteeism threshold of 18 days. They are check-in and notifications at absent day 4, day 8, and day 10 or more.

     

  • What if my child has legitimate reasons for frequent absences?

    We understand that circumstances arise. If your child is dealing with ongoing medical concerns, family challenges, or other barriers to regular attendance, please reach out to your school directly. We can work with you to provide support, explore appropriate accommodations, and help minimize the impact on your child's learning.

    What can I do to help my child maintain strong attendance?

    • Prioritize school attendance 
    • Schedule appointments outside of school hours when feasible
    • Communicate with the school early if attendance challenges arise
    • Reach out for support, we are here to help

Attendance Procedures by School Level

STAGE 1:  4 DAYS ABSENT 

Early Notification:

  • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a notification (e.g., letter, email) to keep you informed about your child's attendancе.
  • No action is usually required other than monitoring.

STAGE 2: 8 DAYS ABSENT* (Unplanned)
Collaborative Support: 

  • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a second notification (e.g., letter, email) to inform you that you are close to losing credit with 8 or more absences.
  • An email will be sent offering families support and resources.
  • We may schedule a brief, supportive meeting to create a success plan together.

8 DAYS or MORE PLANNED ABSENT* 

Parents/Legal Guardians are required to complete the Extended Consecutive Absence Form to initiate a planned, voluntary temporary withdrawal of a student from the Robbinsville Public School District for 8 or more consecutive school days. Under N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25, parents removing a student assume full legal responsibility for providing equivalent instruction during the absence. In accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.2, students cannot remain actively enrolled to accumulate unexcused absences. Form maintains records per N.J.A.C. 6A:32-7, 6A:14-2.9, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6 and N.J.S.A. 47:3-15 et seq., and ensures smooth re-enrollment.

STAGE 3: 10 OR MORE DAYS ABSENT
Formalized Plan & Required Parent/Guardian Meeting:

  • Formal Attendance Review Team meeting
  • Review and adjust the support plan with all parties
  • Potential referral to district services or community agencies
  • Focus on legal requirements & long-term solution
  • Make a determination regarding the need for a court referral for truancy, per N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6(a)4.iv. And G.4. below;

STAGE 1:  4 DAYS ABSENT
Early Notification:

  • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a notification (e.g., letter, email) to keep you informed about your child's attendancе.
  • No action is usually required other than monitoring.

STAGE 2: 8 DAYS ABSENT* (Unplanned)
Collaborative Support: 

  • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a second notification (e.g., letter, email) to inform you that you are close to losing credit with 8 or more absences.
  • An email will be sent offering families support and resources.
  • We may schedule a brief, supportive meeting to create a success plan together.

8 DAYS or MORE PLANNED ABSENT* 

Parents/Legal Guardians are required to complete the Extended Consecutive Absence Form to initiate a planned, voluntary temporary withdrawal of a student from the Robbinsville Public School District for 8 or more consecutive school days. ]Under N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25, parents removing a student assume full legal responsibility for providing equivalent instruction during the absence. In accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.2, students cannot remain actively enrolled to accumulate unexcused absences. Form maintains records per N.J.A.C. 6A:32-7, 6A:14-2.9, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6 and N.J.S.A. 47:3-15 et seq., and ensures smooth re-enrollment.

STAGE 3: 10 OR MORE DAYS ABSENT
Formalized Plan & Required Parent/Guardian Meeting:

  • Formal Attendance Review Team meeting
  • Review and adjust the support plan with all parties
  • Potential referral to district services or community agencies
  • Focus on legal requirements & long-term solution
  • Make a determination regarding the need for a court referral for truancy, per N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6(a)4.iv. And G.4. below;

STAGE 1: 2 DAYS ABSENT Semester Course/ 4 DAYS ABSENT Full Year Course
Early Notification:

  • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a notification (e.g., letter, email) to keep you informed about your child's attendancе.
  • No action is usually required other than monitoring.

STAGE 2: 4 DAYS ABSENT Semester Course/8 DAYS ABSENT*(unplanned) Full Year Course
Collaborative Support: 

  • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a second notification (e.g., letter, email) to inform you that you are close to losing credit with 8 or more absences.
  • An email will be sent offering families support and resources.
  • We may schedule a brief, supportive meeting to create a success plan together.
  • Personalized attendance contract & goal setting
  • Referral to student support services & academic recovery

8 DAYS or MORE PLANNED ABSENT* 

Parents/Legal Guardians are required to complete the Extended Consecutive Absence Form to initiate a planned, voluntary temporary withdrawal of a student from the Robbinsville Public School District f

or 8 or more consecutive school days. ]Under N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25, parents removing a student assume full legal responsibility for providing equivalent instruction during the absence. In accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.2, students cannot remain actively enrolled to accumulate unexcused absences. Form maintains records per N.J.A.C. 6A:32-7, 6A:14-2.9, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6 and N.J.S.A. 47:3-15 et seq., and ensures smooth re-enrollment.

STAGE 3: 10 OR MORE DAYS ABSENT
Formalized Plan & Required Parent/Guardian Meeting:

  • Formal Attendance Review Team meeting
  • Review and adjust the support plan with all parties
  • Potential referral to district services or community agencies
  • Focus on legal requirements & long-term solution
  • Make a determination regarding the need for a court referral for truancy, per N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6(a)4.iv. And G.4. below;

  • STAGE 1:  4 DAYS ABSENT 

    Early Notification:

    • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a notification (e.g., letter, email) to keep you informed about your child's attendancе.
    • No action is usually required other than monitoring.

    STAGE 2: 8 DAYS ABSENT* (Unplanned)
    Collaborative Support: 

    • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a second notification (e.g., letter, email) to inform you that you are close to losing credit with 8 or more absences.
    • An email will be sent offering families support and resources.
    • We may schedule a brief, supportive meeting to create a success plan together.

    8 DAYS or MORE PLANNED ABSENT* 

    Parents/Legal Guardians are required to complete the Extended Consecutive Absence Form to initiate a planned, voluntary temporary withdrawal of a student from the Robbinsville Public School District for 8 or more consecutive school days. Under N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25, parents removing a student assume full legal responsibility for providing equivalent instruction during the absence. In accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.2, students cannot remain actively enrolled to accumulate unexcused absences. Form maintains records per N.J.A.C. 6A:32-7, 6A:14-2.9, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6 and N.J.S.A. 47:3-15 et seq., and ensures smooth re-enrollment.

    STAGE 3: 10 OR MORE DAYS ABSENT
    Formalized Plan & Required Parent/Guardian Meeting:

    • Formal Attendance Review Team meeting
    • Review and adjust the support plan with all parties
    • Potential referral to district services or community agencies
    • Focus on legal requirements & long-term solution
    • Make a determination regarding the need for a court referral for truancy, per N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6(a)4.iv. And G.4. below;

  • STAGE 1:  4 DAYS ABSENT
    Early Notification:

    • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a notification (e.g., letter, email) to keep you informed about your child's attendancе.
    • No action is usually required other than monitoring.

    STAGE 2: 8 DAYS ABSENT* (Unplanned)
    Collaborative Support: 

    • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a second notification (e.g., letter, email) to inform you that you are close to losing credit with 8 or more absences.
    • An email will be sent offering families support and resources.
    • We may schedule a brief, supportive meeting to create a success plan together.

    8 DAYS or MORE PLANNED ABSENT* 

    Parents/Legal Guardians are required to complete the Extended Consecutive Absence Form to initiate a planned, voluntary temporary withdrawal of a student from the Robbinsville Public School District for 8 or more consecutive school days. ]Under N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25, parents removing a student assume full legal responsibility for providing equivalent instruction during the absence. In accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.2, students cannot remain actively enrolled to accumulate unexcused absences. Form maintains records per N.J.A.C. 6A:32-7, 6A:14-2.9, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6 and N.J.S.A. 47:3-15 et seq., and ensures smooth re-enrollment.

    STAGE 3: 10 OR MORE DAYS ABSENT
    Formalized Plan & Required Parent/Guardian Meeting:

    • Formal Attendance Review Team meeting
    • Review and adjust the support plan with all parties
    • Potential referral to district services or community agencies
    • Focus on legal requirements & long-term solution
    • Make a determination regarding the need for a court referral for truancy, per N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6(a)4.iv. And G.4. below;

  • STAGE 1: 2 DAYS ABSENT Semester Course/ 4 DAYS ABSENT Full Year Course
    Early Notification:

    • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a notification (e.g., letter, email) to keep you informed about your child's attendancе.
    • No action is usually required other than monitoring.

    STAGE 2: 4 DAYS ABSENT Semester Course/8 DAYS ABSENT*(unplanned) Full Year Course
    Collaborative Support: 

    • Parents/Legal Guardians will receive a second notification (e.g., letter, email) to inform you that you are close to losing credit with 8 or more absences.
    • An email will be sent offering families support and resources.
    • We may schedule a brief, supportive meeting to create a success plan together.
    • Personalized attendance contract & goal setting
    • Referral to student support services & academic recovery

    8 DAYS or MORE PLANNED ABSENT* 

    Parents/Legal Guardians are required to complete the Extended Consecutive Absence Form to initiate a planned, voluntary temporary withdrawal of a student from the Robbinsville Public School District f

    or 8 or more consecutive school days. ]Under N.J.S.A. 18A:38-25, parents removing a student assume full legal responsibility for providing equivalent instruction during the absence. In accordance with N.J.A.C. 6A:32-8.2, students cannot remain actively enrolled to accumulate unexcused absences. Form maintains records per N.J.A.C. 6A:32-7, 6A:14-2.9, N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6 and N.J.S.A. 47:3-15 et seq., and ensures smooth re-enrollment.

    STAGE 3: 10 OR MORE DAYS ABSENT
    Formalized Plan & Required Parent/Guardian Meeting:

    • Formal Attendance Review Team meeting
    • Review and adjust the support plan with all parties
    • Potential referral to district services or community agencies
    • Focus on legal requirements & long-term solution
    • Make a determination regarding the need for a court referral for truancy, per N.J.A.C. 6A:16-7.6(a)4.iv. And G.4. below;