(EL PASO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT – July 10, 2026) — As the new school year approaches, El Paso ISD is reminding families about an important attendance requirement that will be in effect beginning with the 2026-27 school year.

Students must attend at least 90% of the school days or class periods in order to receive course credit or a final grade, as required by Texas law.

For elementary students, missing more than 17 days during a typical school year may affect whether they automatically can earn credit or a final grade.

In middle and high school, attendance is tracked by individual class periods each semester, so repeatedly missing the same class can become an issue even if a student attends school the rest of the day. In middle school, missing a class more than 8 times in the fall semester or more than 9 times in spring semester will result in loss of credit. In high school as students are on an A/B schedule, missing a class more than 4 times in a semester will result in loss of credit.

While this is not a new state law, it is returning as El Paso ISD's recently approved District of Innovation Plan no longer includes an exemption from this state law. In previous years, many families focused primarily on grades and making up missed assignments. This year, attendance itself is equally important.

A student may be passing every class academically but could still face an attendance review if too much instructional time is missed.

"Everyday matters," Superintendent Dr. Brian Lusk said. "When students are in school, they are learning, building confidence, and creating relationships that help them succeed. We want families to understand that attendance is just as important as grades, and we're committed to working together to keep every student on track for success."

All absences, excused or unexcused, still count toward the 90% attendance requirement unless they qualify for a specific exemption under state law. If attendance becomes a concern, campuses will work with families to review available options, which may include an attendance recovery plan approved by the principal.

"We've always encouraged our children to give their best every day," said El Paso High School parent Armando Alvarez. "The habits they build by showing up—discipline, responsibility, and perseverance—carry into every part of life. Those same habits helped my daughter earn a soccer scholarship to UTEP. Success starts with being present."

Additional information, including a complete list of frequently asked questions about the 90% attendance requirement, is available at www.episd.org/attendance.