ATTENDANCE FOR SUCCESS & EXCUSED ABSENCES

SB 105 clarifies that absences related to a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) and those permitted under federal or state accommodations are considered "excused" under New Mexico's Attendance for Success Act. It requires the Public Education Department to create and publish written guidance for schools on implementing the law, including specific rules for medical absences, pregnancy, and parenting-related absences (with documentation). The bill affects all public schools, charter schools, and private schools, which must now align their attendance policies to allow make-up work for excused absences while maintaining clear definitions of "chronic absence" and "unexcused absence." This update aims to standardize attendance policies and reduce barriers for students with specific needs.