We have absentee forms that our students must fill out if they have an anticipated absence for a rehearsal or performance.  These forms are official forms printed at the district printing press with carbon copies and a  place for student and parent signatures.  We make it clear in our band handbook what constitutes an excused and unexcused absence, and the consequence for an unexcused absence.  While this does not eliminate absences all together, it does reduce the amount of unexcused absences we have had in the past.  When the students turn those forms in to us we review it right away and determine whether or not it is excused or not.  We find that most of the time the students can work around their conflict and make the rehearsal.

Sports is another issue.  We stress to the students the importance of letting their coach know about their commitment to band.  We find that most coaches are willing to work around our schedule as long as they aware of any conflicts ahead of time.  We even meet one on one with coaches to work out performances and game conflicts.  It is a proactive process with both the student and director.  We never assume the student follows up with speaking with their coach.  We constantly remind the students to do so and follow up with their coaches as well.