We’re calling on Katyisd to revise its exemption policy so that excused absences due to illness do not count against a student’s ability to exempt final exams. No student should have to choose between their health and their grades.

As it currently stands, students in Katyisd are discouraged from staying home when they’re sick because even excused absences due to illness can disqualify them from final exemptions. This outdated policy puts both student health and public health at risk.

Many students, fearing the loss of their exemption privilege, attend school while sick. This results in the rapid spread of contagious illnesses such as the flu, COVID-19, strep, and more. Teachers get sick. Staff get sick. Students with underlying health conditions are put at risk.

We urge the district to update its exemption policy to:

-Exclude medically excused absences (with a doctor’s note) from exemption calculations.

-Encourage students to stay home when ill, without fear of academic penalty.

-Promote a healthier school environment where public health is prioritized over attendance numbers.

Schools should reward responsibility—not punish it.

Let’s improve Katyisd’s student health and wellness. Sign this petition if you believe no student should be forced to risk their health to keep their grades.