WBRZ - Baton Rouge

The state is cutting the maximum number of unexcused absences high school students can take to 10 days a year. Public schools across the state currently allow students to miss up to 15 days. The new policy was approved Thursday.

A member of the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education hopes the reduction will improve class performance. BESE is still working out details on how the new rules will be applied to the current school year.

The state requires public schools to offer at least 177 days per year. The new policy will mandate high school students to be in attendance at least 167 days, up from 162. Part of the plan is aimed at preparing students to enter the workforce.