Hilltop Middle School will Strictly Adhere to Washington State's "Becca Bill"
Washington's truancy law, often termed the "Becca Bill", is intended to stop truancy and bad attendance patterns before they become a problem. The law requires only one thing of students: attend school. The law requires only one thing of parents: ensure that your child attends school. If a student does not attend school, the law requires the school district to take action.

* One (1) or Two (2) Unexcused Absences

After a single unexcused absence, the school must contact the parents. This is generally done by phone or letter. After a second unexcused absence, the school is required to schedule a conference with the student and/or parent to discuss solutions to the truancy problems.

* Five (5) Unexcused Absences

If a student has five (5) unexcused absences in a month, the school may take stronger steps to end the truancy problem. The school may file a petition with the Pacific County Juvenile Justice System, enter into a written truancy agreement with the family, or take other reasonable action.

*Seven (7) and Ten (10) Unexcused Absences

Court action is required when a student has seven (7) unexcused absences in a month or ten (10) in a year. The truancy law requires that school districts file a petition in Court against the student or parent or both. After a petition is filed, a court date will be set. If the Court finds that the unexcused absences are excessive, one of many conditions may be set on the child's attendance. Depending on the age of the student, detention time in a juvenile facility can be assigned for all future unexcused absences. Parents may also be fined up to $25 a day for future unexcused absences.

If you have questions, please contact: Mr. Ed Bear, Dean of Students.

Student illness presents many difficulties for families. We want to support the home in ensuring students are at school as much as possible. Please contact our Dean of Students, Ed Bear, if there are any confidential concerns or issues that we can support you with.