Excused vs. unexcused absences: how to handle each

Treating every absence identically feels simple but often isn't fair. Distinguishing excused from unexcused absences keeps your policy reasonable while still holding the line.

Define "excused" clearly

Spell out what qualifies — approved time off, documented illness, protected leave — and what documentation is required. Everything else is unexcused.

Reflect it in points

• ✓ Excused absence: often zero or reduced points.
• ✓ Unexcused absence: full points.
• ✓ No call / no show: the highest value.

Document the reason

Record why an absence was excused so the decision is consistent and defensible later. In Cloud Point Data you can create separate infractions for excused and unexcused absences with different point values, and keep the reason on the record.

Note: leave laws vary by location. This is general guidance, not legal advice — confirm your policy with HR or counsel.