Absences due to the following reasons must be excused:

(1) Illness, health condition or medical appointment (including, but not limited to, medical, counseling, dental, optometry, pregnancy, and in-patient or out-patient treatment for chemical dependency or mental health) for the student or person for whom the student is legally responsible;

(2) Family emergency including, but not limited to, a death or illness in the family;

(3) Religious or cultural purpose including observance of a religious or cultural holiday or participation in religious or cultural instruction;

(4) Court, judicial proceeding, court-ordered activity, or jury service;

(5) Post-secondary, technical school or apprenticeship program visitation, or scholarship interview;

(6) State-recognized search and rescue activities consistent with RCW 28A.225.055;

(7) Absence directly related to the student's homeless or foster care/dependency status;

(8) Absences related to deployment activities of a parent or legal guardian who is an active duty member consistent with RCW 28A.705.010;

(9) Absences due to suspensions, expulsions or emergency expulsions imposed pursuant to chapter 392-400 WAC if the student is not receiving educational services and is not enrolled in qualifying "course of study" activities as defined in WAC 392-121-107;

(10) Absences due to student safety concerns, including absences related to threats, assaults, or bullying;

(11) Absences due to a student's migrant status; and

(12) An approved activity that is consistent with district policy and is mutually agreed upon by the principal or designee and a parent, guardian, or emancipated youth.

A school principal or designee has the authority to determine if an absence meets the above criteria for an excused absence. Districts may define additional categories or criteria for excused absences.