Notification about a planned long-term absence does not mean that the school approves of the long-term absence and that the ten absence limit will be waived.

This information is reproduced from the VCMS Handbook (2.6 Excessive Absence):

Students with more than ten absences will not receive a grade or credit in the course. Students with excessive absences jeopardize their enrollment status at VCMS if they do not receive a waiver from the Middle School Academic Review Board or Principal.
Excused absences for bereavement are granted for an immediate family member (grandparent, parent, sibling). Students can be excused for up to 3 days for local services and up to 5 days if travel is required.

Waivers are not granted for trips (except for 5 days in the case of bereavement), no matter how important the reason.

Excused absences for medical reasons are addressed on a case-by-case basis. They are based on the medical professional’s recommendations and the school’s ability to meet those recommendations. Students with medical issues that conflict with the excessive absence policy, may be placed on a Medical Individual Learning Plan (MILP). An MILP requires the approval of the Middle School Academic Review Board, and a release of information from the primary medical professional in charge of the medical issue.