MS SB2044

Elementary and middle school students (K-8) cannot be promoted to the next grade level if they accumulate 21 or more unlawful absences in the immediately preceding school year.

High school students (9-12) cannot earn credit in a full-year, one-credit course if they accumulate 21 or more unlawful absences during that course.

High school students cannot earn credit in a half-credit, one-semester course if they accumulate 11 or more unlawful absences; for block scheduling, students cannot earn credit in a one-credit, one-semester course with 11 or more unlawful absences.

High school students on block scheduling cannot earn credit in a half-credit, nine-week course if they accumulate 6 or more unlawful absences.

School district superintendents or designees must report unlawful absences to the school attendance officer within 2 school days or 5 calendar days (whichever is less) once a student reaches 5 absences; the act takes effect July 1, 2014.