Spring finals are just around the corner, and many are beginning to wonder about exemptions. In order for each student to be eligible for exemption, they must meet some key requirements in regards to absences and grades.

To be eligible to exempt Spring Finals, you must have no more than four absences in the first semester and no more than three absences in the second. School-related absences such as field trips, however, do not count towards these numbers. For seniors, remember that “senior skip day” is still an absence, and is not excused.

If you’ve exceeded the acceptable number of absences for this school year but still want to try and exempt finals, there is an alternate option. Hardship Waivers can be obtained from the principal’s secretary, Mrs. Rendon. A committee will individually look over each form and decide if the hardship is a valid excuse to make you exemption eligible.

In regards to grades, an 85 or above average in each class is required to exempt that individual class. If an average for a class is below 85, you might not be able to exempt that class. However, if you reach a level 3 on all of your EOCs, you can exempt all finals (no matter the average in your classes, as long as you’re passing). If you reach a level 3 on only one EOC, but not all, you can automatically exempt the final for that subject, no matter the average (must be passing).

The week before finals, counselors and administrators will be set up in the cafeteria handing out exemption forms. Any student can see if they have one, but if you do not have one, you’ve exceeded the allowed number of absences to exempt.

Once you have a form, you must take it to each of your teachers to sign on the review day for that class period. You cannot be absent on the review day – your attendance is required to exempt. If your average in a class is lower than an 85, your teacher will not sign your form for that class period. On the day of your seventh period review, your teacher will take up all exemption forms.There are not extra exemption forms, so be sure to safeguard yours.

If you’ve been checked off to exempt all finals, you do not have to attend school during finals week. If you’re eligible to exempt some, but not all finals, you will have to show up on the day for the finals of that period. However, if you can exempt a final later on in the day, you can get a pass to leave school early.

Tomball High School

Spring Final Exam Schedule 2016

*Attendance is REQUIRED on Exam Review days to remain eligible for Exam Exemptions (see Student Handbook p. 33)