Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students,
Welcome to a brand-new school year in Weber School District! Our schools, classrooms, gyms, libraries, playgrounds, and hallways are readying to come alive again—not just with the sound of bells and footsteps, but with the energy, hope, and excitement that only a new beginning can bring. Whether this is your child’s first day in kindergarten or their final year before graduation, we want to welcome you to (or back to WSD) and thank you for entrusting us with the privilege of teaching, guiding, and supporting your student(s). It is a responsibility we do not take lightly.
As a reminder, school begins on Tuesday, August 19th. The first four days of school will run on the “early-out schedule” (Elementary release: 12:20 pm; Secondary release: 1:15 pm).
This year, we want to shine a spotlight on two simple but powerful habits that can transform a student’s experience: regular attendance and meaningful engagement.
When students are in school consistently, they are not only learning the day’s lessons but also building relationships, developing confidence, and participating in moments that shape their character. Every day counts—not just for academic growth, but for belonging, connection, and preparation for the future. Even a few missed days can mean lost opportunities to engage with friends, explore new ideas, and learn from hands-on experiences.
We’ve created a new attendance policy for WSD to align with legislative changes and to emphasize the importance of regular school attendance. As a special note, please be aware that the “Attendance Credit” graduation requirement (for students in grades 10-12) has been removed from the new attendance policy. Attendance credit will no longer be tracked, nor will it be tied to graduation from a WSD high school.
Please review the following pertinent information:
These KEY definitions related to attendance should be reviewed by parents, guardians, and students:
KEY DEFINITIONS:
Absence: Student fails to attend class for more than half the class period or half the day.
Chronic Absentee: Misses 10% or more of enrolled days (any reason).
Habitual Truant: 20+ truancies in a year (grades 7-12).
Tardy: Late to class. More than half a class late = absence.
Truant: Absent half day or more without valid excuse. (For secondary, this means more absences without a valid excuse for 50% of the class periods. A student may not be considered truant more than one time during the same day.
Valid excuses are limited to: illness (physical or mental), behavioral health, family death, approved school activity, IEP/504, pre-arranged absence (with one day prior notice), and rodeo competition.
Equally important to regular attendance is the partnership between home and school. When parents and guardians connect with teachers, principals, and support staff, it sends a powerful message to students: We are in this together. Our educators are eager to hear your insights, celebrate your child’s achievements, and work alongside you to navigate challenges. Whether it’s attending a parent–teacher conference, joining a school event, or simply saying hello to a staff member in the morning drop-off line, your engagement matters.
Our district is committed to creating safe, welcoming, and inclusive environments where every student can thrive. But the heart of our work beats strongest when families are fully engaged in the life of our schools. Together, we can make this a year filled with growth, resilience, and joy for every student.
Thank you for being our partners in education. We look forward to seeing you at school events, cheering on our students’ successes, and celebrating the everyday moments that make this journey so special. Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead!
With appreciation and excitement,
WSD Superintendency
Gina Butters, Superintendent
Dave Hales, Assistant Superintendent
Clyde Moore, Assistant Superintendent
Pam Wahlen, Board of Education & Superintendency Administrative Assistant