Student Excuses
The classic excuse about a pet destroying homework.
What is “My dog ate it”?
This caffeinated beverage is practically the official teacher fuel.
What is coffee?
The most frequently lost clothing item in the lost & Found
What is a jacket or sweatshirt?
The phrase parents use to explain why their child behaves perfectly at home but not at school.
What is “They never act like this at home”?
This common item is banned because it can be distracting or messy.
What is chewing gum?
Students often say they forgot this essential item at home that prevents them from doing digital work.
What is their Chromebook or laptop?
The noise level described as when students enter the classroom after recess.
What is controlled chaos?
A single item of footwear frequently found but rarely claimed.
What is a sneaker or shoe?
Parents often claim they didn’t receive this despite multiple communications.
What is an email or newsletter?
Hats are not allowed, but students often try to get around this rule by wearing this.
What is hoodies?
A common reason students give for missing school that sounds serious but can be vague.
What is “I wasn’t feeling well”?
This phrase is often used by teachers to get students’ attention quickly.
What is “Eyes on me” or “If you can hear my voice, clap once”?
A liquid container that often gets left behind and can spoil.
What is a water bottle?
The request from parents to provide additional time or accommodations for this.
What is homework or tests?
Students are required to keep these put away during lessons.
What is phones or electronics?
Students sometimes blame this mythical entity for stealing their work.
What is the homework monster or invisible thief?
The one thing teachers wish every student would do before class begins.
What is take out their materials and be ready to work?
Forgotten food containers that sometimes grow mysterious “life.”
What is an old lunchbox or Tupperware?
A polite way of saying their child might be avoiding work.
What is “They are very creative with excuses”?
This is required before a student speaks or leaves their seat.
What is raising their hand?
A creative excuse involving an unusual family emergency.
What is “I had to help with a family emergency”?
The part of the day most teachers look forward to the most.
What is lunch or planning period?
A commonly lost but vital writing tool students forget to bring.
What is a pencil or pen?
Parents ask this when they want extra academic support for their child.
What is “Can you recommend a tutor?”
A snack allowed only if it’s quiet and doesn’t disrupt class.
What is a granola bar or fruit snack?