What Is an Absence Note for School?

An absence note is a written communication from a parent or guardian to a teacher or school administrator explaining why a student missed school. Most schools require a written excuse for any absence, whether planned or unexpected.

A good absence note is brief, polite, and includes the key facts: who was absent, when, and why. It reassures the teacher that you're aware of the absence and are helping your child stay on top of missed work.

When Do You Need an Absence Note?

You should write an absence note whenever your child:

Is absent due to illness (cold, flu, fever, stomach bug, etc.)
Has a planned absence for a medical or dental appointment
Misses school for a family event, trip, or religious observance
Is absent due to a family emergency
Has been out for multiple days in a row

Many districts mark unexcused absences on a child's academic record. Sending a note — even a simple one — keeps the absence "excused" and maintains a good relationship with your child's teacher.

What to Include in an Absence Note

Your child's full name and grade or class
The date(s) of absence
A brief, honest reason — you don't need to share medical details
A note about missed work — mention that you'll help them catch up
Your name and signature

description Example Absence Note

Dear Mrs. Robinson,

I am writing to let you know that Emma will be absent from school on Thursday, March 14th. She woke up this morning with a fever and sore throat, and we felt it was best she rest at home for the day.

We have checked her class schedule and will make sure she completes any assignments she misses. Please let us know if there is anything specific we should focus on.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
Sarah Johnson

lightbulb Pro Tip

If your child will be absent for more than 3 days, many schools require a doctor's note or a more formal explanation. Call the school office in addition to emailing the teacher.

Tips for Writing the Perfect Absence Note

Keep it concise

Teachers receive many parent emails. A short, clear note is always more appreciated than a lengthy explanation. You don't need to apologize excessively — just state the facts politely.

Be honest about the reason

You don't need to share medical details, but being truthful avoids complications later. "A routine medical appointment" or "a family commitment" are perfectly acceptable reasons.

Mention homework and missed work

Saying "we'll help Emma catch up on any missed assignments" shows the teacher you're engaged in your child's learning and reduces any concern about the absence impacting progress.

Send it as early as possible

If you know in advance, email the note the evening before or early morning. For unexpected absences, email as soon as you know your child won't be in school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to give a reason for my child's absence? expand_more

Most schools expect a reason to mark the absence as excused. However, you don't need to share specific medical details. "A health matter" or "a family appointment" is usually sufficient.

How long should an absence note be? expand_more

Three to four short paragraphs is ideal — roughly 100–150 words. Long enough to cover the key details, short enough that the teacher can read it quickly.

Can I send an absence note by email? expand_more

Yes, email is the most common method today. Copy and paste the generated note into your email app or school communication platform. Some schools also accept notes through their parent portals.

What if my child was absent for multiple days? expand_more

Use ParentNote's generator and specify the date range in the reason field (e.g., "absent Monday through Wednesday"). For extended absences of 5+ days, you may also need to contact the school office directly.

Related Note Types

Late Arrival Note · Early Pickup Request · Teacher Thank You Note