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How to Write an Absence Letter to a Teacher

If your child is absent from school, you may have to write an absence letter to his teacher. Some schools require a phone call the day of the absence and a formal letter upon the child's return to school. Many schools also require a note from the doctor if the student has missed more than three consecutive days of class. You will need to check with your school system for any specific requirements. Letters to teachers or principals are a common requirement for one or two days of absence.

Instructions

- 1
  Begin the letter by addressing the teacher respectfully ("Dear Mr. Jones"). If your handwriting is particularly difficult to read, type the letter and write your signature at the bottom.
- 2
  Include the student's full name and the date of the absence in the first sentence. For example, "My daughter, Jennifer Jones, was absent May 3 and 4 because of an illness."
- 3
  State the exact reason for the absence in the second sentence (for example, "He had a mild case of the flu"). If the reason for the absence was a contagious disease, you should mention any additional steps that were taken, "We went to the doctor, and he said that once Johnny had been without a fever for 24 hours, he could return to school."
- 4
  Assure the teacher your child will make up all work missed, and ask for a list of missing work in the last paragraph. Also, put a phone number where you may be reached with any questions.
- 5
  Place your signature and the date at the bottom of the letter.

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Shurley Method Abbreviations