Taking kids out of school ! Help !!

[lovmy2girls]

I really want to make a trip for the first week in December, but my girl will be in school. She is in a private school and they really frown on unexcused absences. How do any of you moms or dads deal with it when taking kids out of school. The look and attitude from the teacher is just a bit much. I can just see it now when my little girl goes back to school and tells her teacher "We just went to Disney World" :D

[pat fan]

You just have to make the decision that is right for your family and not let anyone else's idea of "right" bother you.

I wouldn't take my kids out of school for any length of time(maybe 1 day)but that is me and only because my youngest DS really can't afford to miss any school.He is very bright,just has a hard time retaining stuff and I KNOW I would be unfaithful of going over school work while at Disney.Come on...it's DISNEY WORLD for pete's sake!I'm not making him do school work :rolleyes:

[tinkerbelle30]

In a few years are you going to remember the rolling eyes:rolleyes: or a wonderful family vacation??????
GO AND ENJOY!!!!!!!!!

[mouseketeerwannabe]

It depends on the age of your children. I am a teacher (28 years!!) and I have become much wiser as I've aged. School is important, and I always relay that message to my daughter, BUT school is not always the MOST important thing. I agree with Tinkerbelle30, the memories and bonding are well worth the rolling eyes, and not all teachers disapprove. If your children are young, definitely go for it. As they enter middle shool and high school, the amount of make up work becomes more overwhelming and the concepts are much harder to teach on your own. Sometimes you have to be willing to sacrifice a few grades, too.

We took our daugher out of private school for one week when she was in fifth grade. We celebrated my DH's 50th birthday with a seven day Disney Cruise. The teacher was very accommodating, but our very bright DD struggled through a whole unit in science. I felt she never quite got caught up for that quarter. I am quility, though of assuming she had "gotten it" because she usually catches on so quickly. After she brought home a "C" on that test instead of her usual "A", I realized she needed my help.

I would not give up those memories of our cruise for anything in the world. We never know how long we have together, and we can't always arrange every vacation around the school calendar.

Good Luck and Enjoy!

[lovmy2girls]

Thanks all !
I really appreciate the replys :D

[pat fan]

I hope you all didn't take my "rolling eyes" as some sort of rebuke to lovmy2girls.It was directed at myself and my admitted inability to make my son do school work on vacation.If she feels the situation is good for her to take the kids out,than it's great!When only my older DS was in school I would have taken him out because he could easily catch up.That's just not the case with my younger son.

Sorry if anyone misunderstood my post :( .

[WDW2002]

It is you DD and your decision. But I do believe that it is not a decision to be made lightly. If your child is a good student and will not get behind with the missed school then "go for it." If on the other your child is struggling then I would not suggest taking your child out for a vacation.

I am taking my 6th & 4th graders out this year for a 2 week vacation right before winter/christmas break. I am hoping that the teachers are supportive and helpfull in this matter but if not, not. I believe WDW can be a very educational plus (Epcot and AK especially) so I do believe that we will "learning" while at WDW.

[tinaluis]

We took our DD out of school for a total of three weeks last year (one in November and two in May) for trips to WDW. Her teacher was very supportive, which was great, but we decided before we planned our trip that she is our DD and we would do it whether the teacher was supportive of not. She made up all of her missed work in about a week. At the end of the schoolyear some of her classmates got jackets for having perfect attendance throughout the year. When she told me this, I asked her if she'd rather have a jacket then our family vacations, and she broke out into the biggest smile and said our vacations, of course! That's what we're all going to remember and treasure.

[lisaost]

Perfect attendence awards are a bit silly anyway IMHO. I mean we are basically rewarding a kid for either never getting sick or for coming to school despite being sick and making the other kids sick.

Enjoy your vacation!

[eeyore0062]

You are spending your money to have your child go to that private school, so if you want to take your child out of school for a vacation, that is your perogative. No amount of rolling eyes or attitude from a teacher would keep me from taking my child out of school for a family vacation. As long as they can make up the work, and it won't cause undue stress you your child in trying to make it up, I say GO FOR IT! If you allow an hour a day devoted to school work while down there and have them work on it during the trip down, and the trip back, I see no problem. They can work on it while the rest of you get ready in the mornings to go to the parks.

I have a huge problem with the education system telling me how to run my family's life--- they don't know what is best for us... and what am I going to remember in the long run? That perfect attendence record, and the approval of the school, or the great time I had with my family in Disney World? No contest, there!

[lovmy2girls]

Yes you are absolutely right on them running your life. Not every parent or family can get off work just in the summer or when the kids are off from school. So you are stuck going when you can. Not our case here, but I guess the teacher does not have to know that. :D

[Jasmine13]

No, that is true, the teachers and administrators only need to know what you tell them. I say, if your child can handle the make up work, then go for it!

[dcedwards]

There is another thread with the same question on it that happened about 3 weeks ago on this board. You might want to do a search and read those comments.

My husband taught for 16 years, my mom just retired after more years than I can count and I have several teaching certificates. My advice is this:

Do what you think is best for your family. You are responsible for her not her teacher. And, only you know what is best for her. So, I say go for it. My son is 4 and when he is in school he will miss at least one week for Disney in November and one week in August for another trip we take. I won't even have a second thought about it.

Let the teacher know. Be pleasant. And, you don't even have to tell them why you are taking them out just that they will be gone. Ask for make up work, if you want it. And, if you do ask for it, please make sure you do it. It takes them extra time to pull that together. Used to irratate my mom when parents would ask for it, she would get it all together and then never see any of it return. Frustrating.

The memories you will create during that time are ones that will last a lifetime. And, yes, Disney is VERY educational. And, if your daughter falls behind you can hire a tutor to get them caught up.

GO FOR IT and don't give it another though. Have fun!

[lovmy2girls]

That is what I will do. Just tell her matter of fact, but very polite, and ask for any work I may do with her so she will not get behind. Make sure that week is not a test of some sort that can't be made up. I just can't imagine going during the summer months. CROWDS, Heat, long lines:eek:

[dcedwards]

Have fun and treasure every moment. Life is too short!

[Minnie's Mate]

You mentioned the look and the attitude of the teacher is a bit much. Have talked to the teacher about this? Sounds like maybe some folks could be jumping to some conclusions...like the education system trying to raise our kids. I have my own kids, I don't really want to raise anyone else's. (You'd be amazed at the amount that seemingly want me to.) Bottom line: You don't need to ask permission to go and please don't have your child perpetuate a lie (said or unsaid), just respectfully tell the teacher your plans and work with him/her to make up assignments or substitute something from the trip comparable. Math can be taken with you, there is plenty of reading and writing that can be done on the trip to turn in later based on Disney or whatever, and especially EPCOT has tons of Social Studies and Science. I realistically don't think the trip should be spent doing classwork because it probably won't happen, so plan before and after as well as while en route. It will depend on the age of the child. For some kids, it can be hard but most sail through with no problems. If the teacher has a problem with it, oh well...agree to disagree. Good luck and have a great time.

[MEM]

We have taken our children out of school once this past year for WDW and once for a trip to London, missing about 10 days total. We did not win the lottery, but took advantage of spectacular deals.

I have found even the most strict teachers and principals to be flexible about missing school for a trip to WDW. My son is autistic and without exaggerating, each of our two trips to WDW since August 2001 caused leaps in his development equivalent to one year. Each trip! Even his SpEd teachers noticed the changes. With regard to my normally developing daughter, her principal said that there is no way her school can compete with "field trips" to WDW or London. However, my daughter's teacher gave her a composition book the day before we left and had her keep a journal (she was 5 1/2 at the time). She dutifully wrote in her journal and highlighted the entries with stickers and drawings. Keep in mind that she was only one of two students in her class even capable of keeping a journal. The CMs were very generous with stickers when told of the journal. She even had a Nurse Minnie sticker from our trip to First Aid. Keeping the journal was not a chore -- she did it during our mid-day break at the resort. There is so much of an educational nature at WDW and not just at Epcot and AK. You might want to do a search for a homeschooling thread or two on disboards.

Having said all of that,I realize the time may come when my children are in high school and missing school becomes more problematic. Because
travel is such a high priority for my family and I can turn any trip into an education, I am prepared to negotiate with their teachers and principal and I am confident we can come to an agreement. I have found a firm approach works and they will back down if you can show the trip will benefit them.

[GeorgeG]

Discuss the situation with the teachers. When we took our grandchildren, we chose a week that included a holiday (Columbus Day) and they only missed 3 days of school (there was some reason for the second day of no school I can't remember).

An incentive for the kids is to make sure they stay caught up, if not ahead on their studies, and arrange for the teachers to give them some homework assignments for the trip (a good way to pass the time when traveling so they don't have to do it when they could be swimming, etc.).

Don't forget that WDW has a lot of educational value in itself, especially Epcot. Perhaps the kids could do a report on things they learned while on vacation. Just don't overshadow the fun parts.

[kimruth]

I'm going through the same dilemma but with a public school. Both of my DD's are honor roll students. I decided to pull them out towards the end of the school year. Although some teachers are supportive, some frown on it. The end of the school year would be near so it's of less concern. I was advised by a PTA friend to state "we will be out of town to attend to family matters" (which is true ). Then the record wouldn't show any unexcused absences. :) Happy family memories are too important to me and my family!

I will go back 3 weeks to the other posting and read those too! It's nice to be re-assured that we're making the right decision!

[BounceyOne]

In the prior thread someone pointed out that teachers would not ask you for permission to take off, why ask them?

[dcedwards]

Here in AZ we have charter schools and I am "shopping" around for where to put my child. I always ask the question about missing school, etc. Some give the definitive answer...they shouldn't miss any school...it is too important...and typically is hard to make up. Others tell me that they believe that time is important and will work with me to catch the child up, etc. Guess which ones I go back to for a second look?!

<B>BounceyOne,</B> I agree about not asking...instead I will politely inform them of my plans. I firmly believe that I am the best decision maker for my child and I WILL make those decisions.

<B>Kimruth</B> - I like the phrase family matters and will definitely use that in a year when my son enters kindergarten. That is a very matter of fact way to state it. Thanks.

[tiggerfan58]

Our family can only take vacation in January every year because that is when my husband gets his 4 weeks of vacation! Most people would find this to be terrible...not us...we live in New York where it's cold in January so we head for WDW. Yes we have to take our children out of school. What we do is plan in advance with the teachers. The first year we had 2 kids one in 11th grade and one in 4th grade. The next time we went we only had one child to go with us since the other was off to college. She was in 6th grade. We just meet with her teachers and got all the work she would be missing in advance. I took the text books to a copy store and copied all the pages she would need so we did not have to pack the text books. Since the parks all close at an earlier hour in January, each night she would spend at least one hour doing her school work. When we returned home she turned in all of the work she had done. The test and quizzes that she missed the teachers let her take when she returned. She is a very good student and it never effected her grades. Yes, the school district called them "illegal" absences, but we had to make a decision as what was best for our family. We felt a family vacation was important and to be able to do so taking them out of school was necessary. So we just included the school work into the vacation. It worked for us....maybe it would work for you.

tiggerfan58

[Bobrow]

My parents took us out of school every year for a week and I did not suffer from it at all. My children are involved in travel sports and occasionally miss aday here and there for a tournament,I let the teachers know in advance. Most are very supportive. There are some lessons that can not be taught in school. I believe that the life lessons my children are learning from traveling are equal in value to what they learn in a classroom. They are very well rounded as a result of traveling. Go for your vacation,20 years from now,who cares if a spelling test was missed,the memories of Disney will be what matters!

[meeshi]

Would you take older kids out of school? We are in the stages of planning our next trip which will hopefully be the week after Thanksgiving 2003 (They will be in 10th, 7th and 6th grades). Our kids always have the Monday after Thanksgiving off, so they will only be missing 4 days of school. (The summer is out of the question because youngest dd has special needs and can not handle the heat.)

[Bobrow]

meeshi,
I personally don't think that 4 days of missing school is going to have any life altering effects. I'd do it in a heartbeat. Before you know it your 10th grader will be off to college and doing their own thing.If thats whats best for your family you should do it. LOL

[MEM]

Not to contradict my earlier post, but you do really need to get the teachers' "blessing" for the trip. So far, we have not found a teacher or principal who could not be persuaded this is a good thing. At my children's schools, unexcused absences of a certain number of days could lead to repetition of the year. "Unexcused" is subject to interpretation. Make sure you know how the school defines it.

Rather than just telling the teachers you are taking the children out for a family event, I would (and did!) work with them by presenting a rough educational plan and asking for their input. You can be assertive without being aggressive. Each school district is different and I would find out what the procedures are for yours.

My son is autistic and I have convinced his teachers that the WDW trip is a form of therapy for him and based on his improvement and advancement after each trip, so far the teachers have agreed with the wisdom of my decision.

[AZKathy]

We decided to take the kids out the last five days of school this year. The kids don't do much at the end except for parties and my DS just had to do a research paper instead of taking a final exam for one of his classes, otherwise the teachers said no problem.

I had no problems taking my kids out of school in the early years, but found this year to be harder for me to justify only because DS is in middle school and they miss a lot with the classes. Fortunately, his teachers were very good about this in May.

We also don't have to worry about it any more since we are now in a school district that is modified year round school, so after each 9 weeks, the kids get two weeks off. Yipee! We can now go back to going to WDW in October if we want! (unfortunately, one of the families we are travelling with this next trip are in traditional schools, so we have to go in June one more year!)

[travelitis]

I asked my kids teachers prior taking my kids out of school for Disney, and they both were in favor of it saying the kids would learn more from the experience. I told them we wanted to take the kids out of school because that's when we could get vacation and asked them if they would object. I think by asking you're showing the teachers respect, and in turn they'll show you respect. By asking for their input, you're showing a concern for your child's education, and they'll respond favorably to that. You might get a less positive response if you simply tell them that's what's happening and in any way insinuate it doesn't matter what they think.

[MrsPete]

You're asking this quesiton on the Disney boards -- most posters are Disney fanatics who have made Disney trips a major priority in their lives.

If you really want to get an answer with everyone's viewpoint, you should ask here, AND on a teacher's board, AND on a parenting board. I suspect your answers will be very different.

[Jordan's MOM]

I think that before you "ask" a teacher if they object to your children missing school, you need to decide what your responce will be if they object. If they have a problem with the trip, will you go anyway or are you willing to change your trip. Asking, for permission if you are going to go anyway would most likey make the situation worse. If you however plan to adjust your plans according to your child's teachers responce then that will work fine. Somewhere along the road of education, you will meet a teacher that will object to your vacation plans. Our plans are made far before the start of a new school year and I am aware of the schools policy on vacations.Ours is very vage and allows for lots of leaway. I therefore inform, VERY politely, the teacher of our plans, and then ask HER advice on the best way to make sure that DS stays caught up. Never been a problem yet. Every family is different and that is OK.

Jordan's mom

[dcedwards]

I am a teacher and yes, I do like Disney, but it is not the major priority in life. I think one gets a lot of different perspectives on these boards as people are from a variety of walks in life. So, I do think you get the perspective of parents, teachers, administrators and disney fanatics. But, it never hurts to ask elsewhere, either.

Bottomline is that it is the parent's responsiblity to make educated and informed decisions in regards to their children. The final decision in regards to removing a child from school for a period of time rests with the parents - not the teacher or school district. As a parent, you and your child will live with that decision -- not the school district or teacher.

Asking the teacher's opinion is fine but, as Jordan's Mom posted, what is your response going to be if they object? It is something to think about.

You need to do what is best for your child and your family.

[ellyn2000]

I've never had a problem taking my 3 kids out the week of Thanksgiving. They, too, were at private school and the teachers told me that they felt that an important part of a childs education was this type of family vacation/adventure. When 2 of my children went to public school, I was just as blessed with the response from the teachers there. I just notified them at the beginning of the month and requested any work they could do in advance or when they returned. Our kids now have exams sometime in Dec., so that wouldn't be an option. Just discuss it with the teachers and let them know you're looking for options, not permission. Hope you have a wonderful trip!!!!!!

[karenward]

Last year I took my two children out of school for four days during the end of September. My 5 year old did not miss a thing and my 8 year old made up her work no problem. We did some work in the airport, on the plane, and we tried to do some work in Disney, but not much got done. This year, we are going to Disney during the first week of school, so I know that my kids will not miss a thing. I just have to let the school secretary know that my kids will not be there the first week, as I do not yet know what teachers they will have. I think this will be the last year of taking the kids during the school year, as it is more difficult to make the work up as they get older.

[crazyme5kids]

I would and have taken my kids out. There is a lot said about only taking a child out if they have good grades, but I feel it should not matter. Kids with poor grades struggle regardless, and I think it is a nice way to let them know how much you love them. Why do we always make kids feel penalized for not being the best and brightest?

[Wish Upon A Star]

I was just having this same conversation with my DH this morning before we left for work.

This will be the first and probably only time we will be taking our DD (13) and DS (9) during the first week of December. We would really like both DD and DS to be able to experience some of the Disney Xmas Magic I've read so much about. We usually go during Spring Vacation and we went this July.

Personally, we feel that the kids are only kids once. Ok, so they miss a week of school . . .they could miss a week of school from being ill too . . .do teachers frown on that too? Teachers take vacation, sick and personal time during the school year, we, as parents do not ask questions on how they use their own time, so why should they frown when we use ours?

I do plan on sending each school a letter to the principals and then I will inform their teachers during November conferences. My DD and DS will both make up any work and/or tests that they will miss if their teachers do not want to give them any work to take with them. But basically, I'm not asking the school's permission to take this family vacation, I'm telling them I'm taking this family vacation.

:p

[BounceyOne]

Wishuponastar, If you normally go during springbreak or in July, you will get spoiled going in December! I'm willing to bet you go again after trying it once! There is no comparing July and Dec. :)

[Wish Upon A Star]

Stacey - LOL! I know, I've heard so many good things about going in early December with regards to the low crowds, the beautiful decorations, etc . . .I just had to try it once;)

[meeshi]

Wish Upon A Star....... We went the week after Thanksgiving last year. It was incredible! The weather was perfect, the decorations, beautiful and the crowds were low. So now I'm working on a 2003 vacation for the same week. My kids will only miss 4 days of school. I'm a little nervous because they are older, but keep thinking 4 days really isn't that much. Anyway.....I think you might get hooked on that time of year!:D

[juliesue]

Oops, I accidently posted this as a new thread. Here's the link to my reply: http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=236985

[IGDDDF]

I read these 3 to 4 times daily. And I appreciate all the information that you guys leave.

We had originally planned to take our vacation in June, however, we just bought a house and ------ you know ----- money issues. However, we postponed out trip until July. Hello! we are still here. Now, we have re-rescheduled our trip for December 2 - 10. I am so excited. But!!!!! My children who will be seven, six and 4 all before December 15th will be in school. Pre-K, 1st Grade and 2nd Grade. I need to know from you seasoned posters at what time should I alert the teacher that my children will be out of school, which will be approximately 8-10 days.

I cannot delay going to the world any longer. My children are hounding me every day. Anxiously awaiting responses.:Pinkbounc :bounce: Thanks:p

[Jordan's MOM]

When we go in January, I tell my child's teacher at the first parent-teacher meeting which is in October. There is really no reason to let them know way ahead. I then reminded her at the class Christmas party and then sent a note about a week ahead of time. No problems at all.


Jordan's mom
'

[WDW2002]

I too plan on telling the teacher at the parent teacher confrence in Oct/Nov (we go in December). I will also go to the office a week or so before hand and complete "independent study" forms.

[Kevs mom]

I will be taking my son (11) and my daughter (8) out of school for a trip in January - they already have 2 of the days off because of teacher workdays but I will be keeping them out the other 3 days so we can have a full week of fun! I too debated long and hard about it - this will be my son's first year in middle school but I definetly think he can handle it. This will be our third family trip to WDW and the other two visits have been at very crowded times of the year so I wanted to go when we could see things at a leisurely pace and I think our memories will be worth it! Have fun on your trips:earsboy:

[adams66]

I too agree that life is too short!

My family owns a road construction business. When it is warm and sunny in PA, then we have to take advantage of that and fix roads. When it is snowing in PA, we have the opportunity to take a break and go on vacation. And with the exception of Christmas week and sometimes Easter week, my kids don't get that much time off.

Therefore we try to take a vacaction in January. I do try to schedule it around MLK day so they have one or two days off. That way I can stretch the trip a little longer and include two weekends. That said, I wouldn't let the school influence my decision beyond that. I politely tell them after New Years or just before Christmas that we will be going. Who's to say that a trip to WDW is any less educational than a field trip to the museum. I have always felt that the exposure to WDW and different parts of the country are just as educational.

I say that if you pay tuition, then you are in a way the teacher's employer. Don't let her/him look down on you. I know in my case, my kids go to public school and I pay school taxes. Therefore, I consider myself an employer of the public school system. I hope I don't sound overzealous here, I think it's just a fact of life.

[LucyStorm]

I never thought I would take my DD out of school as she is LD and struggles enough. But it didn't make sense to give up the family time and the financial difference that going in value season made. She was out of school for 6 days.

We did take her makeup work with us, and because the parks closed early, she did work on it every night for an hour or in the morning when I was in the shower, etc. She finished her work by the 5th day of our 10 day vacation, and when we returned home, she was WAY AHEAD of the rest of her class.

For her, having Mom as her tutor one on one, was much more beneficial than sitting in the special ed class. Being a teenager, she doesn't treasure the memory yet, but I know that someday she will.

[LKS]

Plenty of us do not take our children out of school and still have a wonderful vacation to WDW during school breaks. Some people may think perfect attendance is a stupid goal to shoot for, but I can tell you that my three kids were quite proud of their certificates this year AND, that when I was in HS many moons ago, I got a part-time job over 60 applicants because of my perfect attendance. It is not completely meaningless. We are all very involved in school anyway, as I now work part-time and spend many of my "off" hours volunteering etc... We think there are frankly few enough days of school each year and we should take advantage of them while we can, and still have all of our great family time and educational experiences during non-school days.

But, what is right for our family, very well may not be for yours. Just thought I would add my very rare opinion to the debate.

[Kevs mom]

I just thought I would respond to LKS and add that my children too have received "good attendance" certificates in the past and were very proud of it, the thing with their school is though is that anyone who misses 3 days or less gets one, there is no special award for missing no days of school which I think is fair since my kids have gone entire school years without missing a single day but then like this past year my daughter missed close to a week due to illness and my son missed days because of a concussion. I stay at home and volunteer loads of time at the school each year so it sounds like you and I have that in common, in fact in the past I used to share your opinion of planning vacations around school but after our last two trips to Disney (one in summer and one during spring break) I have decided to pull the kids out for 3 days in January so we can experience it at a slower pace and really enjoy our time without being crowded or hot, I made sure I picked a week where they already have two days in a row off so that way they will only have to miss three and it is at the beginning of a new grading period so I think if you can work out something like that it is fine to miss a few days of school and if my kids don't end up missing any more than those days they will still get their certificate at the end of the year. I also should mention my son is a straight A student and my daughter also does well in school so I don't think it will effect them at all. Like many have said on this thread it is up to each individual family to make that choice and only they know their circumstances so no one should tell them otherwise!!!!

[Jasmine13]

LucyStorm... I'll bet the undivided time you spent with your DD both touring the parks, and working on her school work with her while at Disney was a wonderful and meaningful experience for both you and her. Something that is rarely found in day to day life. What a wonderful story, and thanks for sharing.

[minnieandmickey]

I would just like to say there are families out there where one or both of the parents can't get school vacation time off. We are one of them. My husband has to bid for his vacation and it is based on his seniority. So by the time his name comes up on the list all of spring,summer,fall, and any important weeks like Christmas and Thanksgiving are taken. So if we are going to have a vacation then we have to take the kids out of school. This will be the case next year, and we will try to find a week or so that has the least amount of days of school will be missed. Do we like to, no. But my husband is a police officer and works very screwed up hours , so the time that we spend as a family is very important to us.

[patman]

Before high school, I would not have a problem taking my children out for a week. Our High School does not try to stop kids going on vacation during the year but if a test is on Monday you have to take it. any make up tests taken later in the week are at 80% of the grade. Work is taken on vacation and graded. My oldest son is a senior this year taking Physics, Calculus, Probability and Computer Science. He will need to take a laptop on vacation as all the teachers require the work to be done. When people say that you are responsible for your child but they are responsible to insure that your child is exposed to the material. Is it fair for your high school student to do less work and recieve the same grade as students who put the time in class?

Vacations while school is in session require tradeoffs, quality time together vs missed schooling.

[eeyore0062]

Vacations while school is in session require tradeoffs, quality time together vs missed schooling.

!any make up tests taken later in the week are at 80% of the grade


Very true, but is still the ultimate decision of the parents when or if they are taking their kids out of school, and the fact that the school, is in essence punishing them with only awarding 80% of a grade, even if the kid got a perfect score because the family chose to spend time together. Schools, while responsible for imparting knowledge to the child, still are not that child's keeper, and should not penalize the child or the family for the choices that are their's to make. Sometimes, as mickeyandminnie stated, vacations have to be taken when the parents can take the time... and especially considering the type of job that mickeyandminnie's husband has, family time is really of the utmost importance! Schools do have to realize that family must come 1st, and consider all circumstances individually... a blanket rule really should not apply!

[disneyjunkie]

In the pass I have said I would never take my son out of school to go to Disney World. There's no reason why we can't go when school is out.

However, this November I'm taking him out for 2 days, the Wednesday before and the Monday after Thanksgiving. Am I doing this because it's the only time we can go? Nope. I'm doing it for 2 reasons, one I don't want to travel on T-day and two I want to attend MVMCP.

Since I'm making the choice to take my son out of school, I have to live with the choices the school make about making up exams and missed classwork/homework.

[meowchi]

We can't take our kids out of school. If we do then they get a zero for the days missed and they cannot make up the work. Also a week of unexcused absenses bring us before the school board. I am stuck with having to go to Disney during the summer months or school vacations.

[MEM]

Yes, but isn't the key word "unexcused"? My children's school has a similar policy but by informing the principal and teachers well in advance and either proposing homework or accepting what they assign, it has not been a problem for us. The funny thing was, the teacher assigned my daughter, a kindergartener, a project that no one else in her class was capable of completing! To keep a daily journal when most kids in the class could not read nor barely write.

Also, my other child is autistic and we have, so far, convinced the SpEd dept. that WDW is therapy for him since his development advances dramatically with each trip. Taking him during the super-crowded times would not work because it would over-whelm him.

[Jasmine13]

I think that it is a sin and a shame that schools can't be more flexible, especially in this day and age of both parents working and having to coordinate time off. Schools do need to understand the needs of the families sometimes have to come before them, and make exceptions. A zero for every day missed... well, that is just ridiculous, and I teach school. It is no wonder that kids can't be kids anymore... they are expected to act like little adults, and are treated as such... there is plenty of time to have to be responsible and grown up...lets not push it. Let the kids be kids, and stop giving them ulcers at the tender age of 8 because they are being pressured so hard in school. It is up to the individual family to decide what is right for their child... and if the parents will be out of town and there is no one to watch the child while they are gone, that is an excusable absence... otherwise it would be child endangerment or worse to leave them home by themselves. Sorry for the rant, but schools are not responsible for parenting, the parents are!

[adams66]

Jasmine-

I wholeheartedly agree with you! Kids are under so much pressure these days from sports to school to everything else. A zero for a missed daily is absurd! What about sick days? That's why I also disagree with the premium place on perfect attendance. Yes, school is VERY important. But sick kids shouldn't go to school. Family is MORE important! Kids grow up so darn fast these days. Time spent with family is never lost! Schools must understand that there is more to turning out well rounded, bright individuals than making them sit in a classroom day in and day out.

I think that as long as the school admin. and teachers are notified in a reasonable amount of time prior to the trip I see absolutely nothing wrong with the absense being considered "excused". I just fill out the appropriate form stating when we will be leaving and when we plan to return and the principal forwards it to the teachers for them to get together any assignments that they will miss. Then I speak to the teachers to get a handle on things and off we go.:Pinkbounc

[meowchi]

unexcused is without doctors note. If they are out for any extended time they have to have one. It could all be smoke that they blow off but this is what I was told. I have put our trips off to summer and Thanksgiving vacations.

[meeshi]

When we've taken our kids out of school for vacation we've had to fill out "Educational Field Trip" forms from the school. Then their absences weren't considered unexcused.

[WDW2002]

Originally posted by meeshi
When we've taken our kids out of school for vacation we've had to fill out "Educational Field Trip" forms from the school. Then their absences weren't considered unexcused.
We have something simular in our school district, if your kids are going to miss a week or more for any reason (illness, vacation, whathaveyou) we are to fill out a "independent study" contract. This is what I plan to do for the 11 days my kids will miss in December. BUT I have also learned from these boards that school board policys vary WIDELY from state to state, school board to school board.

[IGDDDF]

Dear WDW2002

What exactly is an independent study contract. And how does it work? Does this apply to all public schools? I live upstate NY.
I think this is something that I will have to inquire about. Thanks!

This seems to be a very hot topic:mad: .

[WDW2002]

Originally posted by IGDDDF
Dear WDW2002

What exactly is an independent study contract. And how does it work? Does this apply to all public schools?
It is basically saying that your child is missing school for (reason) and that they will complete all school assignments assigned during their absence. You will have to check with your school, every school / school disctrict is different.

[DG-12]

I understand where a lot people are coming from about wanting to use the off-season for WDW trips because I do too-And I also understand that some people can't get the time off for school time b/c it is popular vacation time- so please don't flame me for this
BUT I AM TEACHER- AND I FELT LIKE JUST SCREAMING AS I READ THIS POST/
1) Many people who responded seemed to think that a week is not much time- those people should sit down and read through the state standards and district standards for should be taught each year- between vacations, sickness, standardized testing time etc... there is not that much time in the school year to cover all of the things you are supposed to- and that is supposing that all of your understand the concept right off the bat- how frequently do you think that happens?
2) The schools receive money for each day the child attends- which is why if a child is absent for five days it can be a big deal (okay, not a lot for one child to miss five days but multiple that by every kids in the school whose parents pull them out for vacation) which is why when you sign an independent study contract the school still receives the money
3) There is no substitute for classroom learning time- Many people seem to think that the teacher can pack up a neat little 30 minute packet and your child won't be behind- I mean honestly, what do you think your kids do all day?
4) When the child returns, 99% of the time, the teacher needs to spend a lot more time re-teaching the skill to that child- well guess what, the other 30 kids suffer than- and guess what else- most kids don't want to stay after, in during recess, or come before school to make up work or get help-
5) In AZ if your child misses 10 or more days you, as a parent, can go to JAIL- WDW does not qualify as an excused absence
Schools can be very flexible- but when dealing with the fammily situations they do, lack of money, equipment etc... so do you really think dealing with the family whose going to WDW for a week should be a top priority (maybe it should be the kid whose parent was stabbed the night before?????That really happened)
Finally, my rant is done- but I have to wonder about the quality of education your child is getting if you think that missing a week or so doesn't cause any harm. I agree that there are times that missing school for trips can be a wonderful and educational thing for children (I once had a family who withdrew their kids for a year to sail around the world- what an experience- the kids met all sorts of people, saw different countries, and did school work each day- that is a worthwhile trip) Finally, really this time, for all you responsible parents out there- you who go talk to the teacher and follow through- I bet there are twice as many who don't... Anyway, a lot of that is JMHO-

[MAC3]

I have had a teacher tell me that the quality of time that you will spend with your child/children is imeasureable compared to what they could teach them in that timeframe. It's irreplacable.

We used to take our daughter out in May. But In all honesty, as they get up there in Grades the amount of homework is so intense that it just wasn't worth it. Now we just do it with the rest of the summer crowd.

So enjoy it while you can, especially if they are in the lower grades. Only you know what your childs ability is and how well they are doing in school at that time. With the help of the teacher you can decide if they can handle the make up work.

Great point though DG-12,

[dcedwards]

Again, I say...it is the parent's call ... not the teachers or the schools. I, too, am a teacher - and have been in 3 states... my hubby has been one (is now in private business), in three states - and my mom an elementary teacher. We cover the spectrum from K-post-secondary.

I am in no way advocating for parents to take kids out of school but it depends on the child, the state, and the school. Private is different than state schools. State schools are different than charter schools and home schooling is different than all the above.

As a parent, I do what is best for my child. It will be different for each child and each parent. Each child is unique in their ability to learn and interact as well as handle stress, etc. Just as each family situation is unique.

If the amount of time my child was missing from school ever became an issue...I would choose to do home schooling ... and then it wouldn't be an issue. That is me ... wouldn't be my first choice but is always an option.

And, I agree, if parents do not take the time to work with children who miss school (for whatever reason) it is a lot of extra work for teachers. So, as a parent you need to take responsibilty for your child and put in the extra time, effort, and money (for tutors) that is necessary to bring your child up to speed. And, if you don't feel your child will be successful if they miss the days...then don't take them out of school.

Again, the parents should have the final say. Of course, that isn't to say that all this shouldn't be done in cooperation with the teacher, school and school district. All of which are important.

Yes, school is important. A lot of stuff happens. But, I still believe..and forever will...that family is the most important. That being said, I think that there is a happy middle in all this...but that is different for each family.

If you have to take kids out of school or decide to that ... be responsible ... do the "homework" to find out the consequences and implications ... and then do what it takes to make sure your child is able to fit back in.

[WDW2002]

DG-12
While I agree class room time is important. But I also believe family time is important. And I also believe there is much more to education the class room teaching. I also think it depends A LOT on the child in question, and what grade they are in. Our WDW trip will likely be the last time I will take my kids out of school for a trip. Next year my oldest will start middle school, 8 classes, 8 teachers is going to be too difficult to cordinate getting the missed work.

I am a firm believer that if a child misses school for whatever reason they should complete all missed school work. My DD's will complete every assigment given, as well as a report/journal of the trip and any other "special assignments" that may be given.

[DG-12]

I agree that family time is important!! I firmly believe that I cannot be a successful teacher without parents support- but does quality time have to occur during the school year? I believe that parents can have LOTS of quality time with their kids during the school year AND when school is out. The message I am getting is that quality time can only be had during the off-season at WDW? For many people taking their kids out is not because they can't have vacation at other times but because it is least crowded and least expensive when school is in session. Again, I am not saying that people should not take their kids out of school...I just can't believe the number of people who think the schools should be more understanding- (if there are 700 kids in the school and HALF of the families take their kids out for some reason can you imagine the havoc it plays on the school and the classrooms?) If you are willing to take full responsibilty as a parent fine- but how many of you would be in my classroom arguing with me if I asked the student to turn the work in ahead of time, the day he/she returned, or told your child he/she could NOT make up the standardized tests that take place at the end of the year when many people assume nothing much is going on?
Dana

[kimruth]

In our school district here in Maryland, I was told (by school personnel and personal friend) that if I go to Disney World, it will be considered "unexcused". She said "You have to be out of town to attend to family matters." I caught on really quickly. Our last disney trip, that's what I put on the note sent back in to school. DDs were given "excused" absences. More than 5 unexcused absences put us before the principal and who knows what else. It doesn't matter though - we're going anyways because that's what is best for us!

[Jordan's MOM]

I agree that taking your children out is a very personal decision. And everyone is entitled to their say. What I think is sad is that families feel locked into rules and decissions made by schools that have a big effect on their children. I am a teacher, teaching early chilhood classes part time right now, and I have seen many children enjoy a family vacation with no problems.
I am lucky that my DS's school does look at family vacations in a positive light and are quite willing to work with families. However, I choose my childs school.The local public school. Today more and more options are avaliable to parents. Magnet schools, charter schools and more and more private schools. With tax credits and more aid to parents, theses are becomming a real choice for many. Not to mention the high rise in home schoolers. My hope is that school are going to have to begain to meet some of the demands of the families in order to keep their enrollments high.I think a school would rather loose 5 days of money for my son than have me move him to another school and loose a whole years worth.
I second what several parents have said; please be responable parents if you take you kids out. Be sure they do ALL of the work assigned and understand all the concepts. Last year when my DS misssed a week for WDW, he ended up with the best grades of the year that quarter. No teacher catch up, but a mom who made sure he stayed on track.
Everyone has to make his or her choice and then deal with the outcome.

Jordan's mom

[DG-12]

When I first started teaching I was teaching in an area where a lot of people pulled their kids out of school for five days at a time for various reasons- and the school ended up losing almost 10,000/yr in funding- that means that while you may think that your son's five day absence is not a big deal you have to remember how many other parents have that same opinion- Second,you should check into some of thsoe "alternative" options- in AZ and CA teachers don't have to be certified to teach at a charter school- Some don't even have to pass background checks, Home-school- you have to have a certificate to do that- etc.... All the while these schools drain the budgets of the schools that you seem to think are failing- well, guess what, do you think less money helps them to succeed? (Why do you think classrooms have two computers for thirty kids? Or, my personal favorite, not enough books?) FINALLY- I don't think public schools should have to compete for their kids- we operate with the smallest budgets, the strictest regulations, and the lowest pay... We are underfunded, not enough books, paper, pencils, etc... I just finished interviews for the new teacher at our school and one of the candidates asked me why I taught there (well, she asked the group- and I was the one who got to answer)...Just so some of you don't think I am the Grinch- I love my kids, they need me. Their lives don't include WDW trips and I am there fighting for them every day- sometimes I am the only person fighting for them- Even at their age they can appreciate that I do my best for them and that I am always willing to go the extra mile for them- they understand that not all adults are willing to protect, care, or fight for them and they appreciate that I care enough to do it. They tested me the first weeks I had them- kept asking me if I would leave- and I kept coming back and you know what by the end of the year our class had won all kinds of awards, raised test scores, and become a safe place for my kids. They touched my life in a way I feel blessed to have experienced- I just have different priorities from some of you and that's okay too. I hope all of you do cherish your time with your kids! There are some kids who don't have parents like you all...
Dana

[eeyore0062]

originally posted by: DG-12

I believe that parents can have LOTS of quality time with their kids during the school year AND when school is out.

In some cases, yes, in others, NO. It depends on the parents' job, if they have areas of time that they CANNOT take off of work, and whether those time coinside with when the children are out of school. Not everyone takes vacations because it may be cheaper or cooler at certain times of the year. Many times vacation time has to come when and if the parent can secure it. The child or family should not be penalized a vacation because it may mean that the child may have to miss school to go.

The schools have to be flexible, and believe me, if I am going out of town, my child will be with me, no matter what time of year it is, or isn't. His/her work will be completed, and then some, and we will not infringe on the teacher's time, other than to get the school assignments before we go. It is truly the parents choice, and not something that the schools should have any say over, one way or the other.

[MAC3]

I applaud you DG-12 . I know this is a touchy subject as parents will always feel we are the best deciders of what we do with our children. We need more teachers like you. Not all, give it 110% that our nations children deserve.

This is the reason we decided not to remove our daughter from the school year. It wasn't for any other reason outside of the fact it was hard for her to catch up. We didn't want to impose this unnecessary stress on our daughter.

[dcedwards]

DG-12 ... I, too, applaud you. Over the years I have seen, worked with and evaluated many teachers who are just putting in their time. It is really a shame as our nation's children are being shortchanged. On the other hand, students who are lucky enough to have a teacher with such dedication really do excel and take off. Teaching is one of the hardest professions around and perhaps one of the lowest paying. (Isn't it amazing how e as a society are willing to pay professional athletes millions to hit a ball and run around while we pay those entrusted with our children little to nothing...oh well that is an issue for another thread, right :D ) That is one of the reasons why we are now in private business instead of in education. It only takes one salary to make what the two of us combined used to make ... and I can stay home with my child. What a blessing.

You asked the question earlier if parents would be willing to do the work ahead of time before a child leaves.... ABSOLUTELY. If we would be willing to hand it in the day we returned...ABSOLUTELY. And, if I scheduled my child to be gone when the standardized test was given, I would not expect to be given the chance for him to make it up. That is what I mean about being responsible and accountable for the decision.

It is MY responsiblity to make sure that my child can and does do whatever needs to be done in order to be able to come back into the classroom and pick right back up with the rest of the class - without causing disruption or an extra burden on the teacher. I should not expect the teacher to do that for me. But, I may be a bit different than some parents That is why it is imperative that parents be aware of the big picture.

[BounceyOne]

DG12, I agree with what you say but I also disagree. Here in NY you get funding by enrollment, it doesn't get taken away for everyday a child misses. And in states where it does, I am sorry but I am not responsible for an entire school. If my child is absent for 5 days and they loose his funding for 5 days, so be it, he wasn't there to use his share of resources anyway. Here the problem with school funding isn't the amount (IMO) it is the way it is handled. By the time all the 'non educating' staff is paid and all the over payed head honchos, there is little left for students and teachers.

Yes schoold need books, very badly. It sucks that they can't have up to date books each year. It is bad that they are not in the budget, but the publishers are making lots and lots of $$ on those books. The price of books is ridiculous!

If we had more teachers like you, schools would be a better place. I don't necessarily feel that more money is the answer.

Teachers deserve better pay (so do policemen) but they know the salary when they take the job.

[elisebutt]

This is a really interesting thread, as we have different systems over here in the UK. We are sort of allowed 10 days off in the year if the teachers agree but recently got a memo from the HM, stating that 80% of parents have been taking their kids out of school for holidays and although parents are allowed to take 10 days out, it is a privelidge(sp) not a right!!! From now on each request would be placed before the board of governors for approval.

My DS(7) has Special Ed needs and until recently only attended for 90mins a day, he now attends half a day at a time and we are hoping to increase this 1 day at a time when he starts in Yr 3 in September. We came to orlando for 10 days in March and I took plenty of reading material and made him keep a journal and make a scrapbook for show and tell. His SN assistant told us that she saw such an improvement in his behaviour after his trip, that she would not hesitate to let us go again any time we wanted!!
He even got average result in his Sats, which is astounding since he only attended about 25% compared to all the other kids.

We are not planning to go away until October '03 but will be taking one week in the half term break and a week after. We normally go in the holidays, but the cost to go to Orlando in the holidays from Britain is extortionate as the holiday companies all put their prices up about 40%.

When we do go in the holidays we tend to stick to Europe and so far my little traveller has been to France, Crete, Spain, Majorca and the US. I think the benefit of travel when they are in the earlier grades outweighs the downside of taking them out of school.

[MrsPete]

Consider these thoughts from a high school teacher:

Your child is in my classroom for only 18 weeks. I give an awful lot of notes and introduce quite a few new concepts each week.

Most of my kids can "get" the information by reading it on their own, but they'll have a much better understanding if they also hear me explain it, if they hear my examples, and if they participate in the practice exercises I give in class. Most students do fall behind when they're out a whole week.

Your child will take a state EOC test at the end of my class. His performance determines whether he goes on to the next class; obviously, I want him to pass. If he doesn't pass, I look bad, he looks bad, and you look bad! If he's not here, I can't do much to help him.

I am not saying that family time isn't important! I have children too. However, kids are in school for seven hours a day, 180 days per year. That leaves 185 free days, not to mention after school hours on the 180 days! If you can't "be a family" in those hours, why do you think it will magically happen in one week off school?

[dcedwards]

It is so interesting how opinions vary. My DH taught high school science for over 16 years and believes that it is a parent's decision as to whether the child should miss school. He has seen it work wonderfully, IF a parent is involved...if the student is not having problems grasping the concepts before they leave... and if the parent and student are both willing to do what it takes to make sure the student is "on track" either when they return or shortly thereafter. Again, it depends on the student!

I don't think it is a matter of "being a family" in those hours. Quite the opposite, if you are not a family prior to the one week, you probably won't be a family after the one week -- so I agree with Mrs. Pete.

But, I look at it this way...how would I feel if I had a student whose father was a fireman..and a month before, the student/parents had approached me about taking the student out of school for a week because that was the only time the father could get off work. I voiced a strong objection to them doing so.

A month later, 9-11 happened, and that student lost his/her father. And, they had decided not to take the student out of school for that week based on my strong objection... WOW!!!!!!

If asked..as a teacher I would give an objective evaluation of the situation based on the student,their work and the upcoming material to be covered...yet I would always tell the parent that the final decision is up to the them.

I do agree that the older the student is, the harder it is for them to miss school. But, I don't think it is a hard and fast rule...as nothing ever is...it is up to the parent to make the decision that is the best for their child.