Q: Can a high school legally decline a call in sick?
A:
A high school cannot legally decline a call in sick from a student if the student is genuinely ill or experiencing a medical condition that makes it unsafe or impractical for them to attend school. In California, for example, students have the right to take a reasonable amount of time off from school for medical reasons without being subject to truancy laws.
However, schools may have policies in place that require students to provide a doctor's note or other documentation to verify their illness or medical condition. If a student is repeatedly absent or absent for an extended period of time due to illness, the school may also require them to provide additional documentation or work with the school to develop a plan to address the absences.
It's important for students and their parents to understand the specific policies and procedures of their school regarding absences due to illness. If there is any confusion or disagreement regarding the policies, it may be helpful to consult with a school administrator or a qualified attorney who specializes in education law to understand the rights and responsibilities of the student and the school.
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