Tennessee District’s Doctor’s Note Ban Sparks Outrage and Public Health Concerns
The Lawrence County School System in Tennessee has implemented a new attendance policy that does not accept doctor’s notes for absences, aiming to instill a strong work ethic in students. Under this policy, all absences are considered unexcused, with exemptions only for specific circumstances like family deaths or religious observances. The policy emphasizes the importance of attendance for student achievement and future financial success, even as childhood illnesses rise. Students with chronic absenteeism will automatically fail subjects, reflecting the district’s commitment to controlling student attendance.