Tardy refers to arriving late, particularly to school or class. School attendance policies address tardiness alongside absences, as chronic lateness disrupts learning for the late student and classmates. Schools track tardiness and may implement consequences for repeated lateness including detentions, parent conferences, or other interventions. Some tardiness results from circumstances beyond student control (transportation issues, family situations), requiring schools to distinguish between patterns requiring discipline versus support. Chronic tardiness can indicate underlying issues like sleep problems, school avoidance, or family challenges. Schools work with families to address attendance problems before they become serious. Provincial attendance requirements may address tardiness as part of compulsory attendance enforcement.