The Regents aren't set to vote on the proposal until June. It would be phased in and take full effect in the fall of 2002. It is usually ready within 24 to 48 hours. We use this as a resource. School officials can use the information to determine what classes are being cut, what days have the most missed classes and other patterns.
Some studies show cutting class has become a major problem.
According to a report prepared for the Regents, between 10 percent and 19 percent of schoolchildren nationwide are absent on any given school day. Students who are in school less than 85 percent of the time have far more problems, according to a state Education Department spokesperson. Alan Ray said in a prepared statement last week. OHS students who fall below the 85 percent level run the risk of penalties. Then, they would have to take the course over again.