civic – adj. of or relating to a city or town or the people who live there

excused absence – n. officially allowed to be absent, or away from school.

engagement – n. the act or state of being involved with something

flexibility – adj. easily changed

participate – v. to be involved with others in doing something : to take part in an activity or event with others

rallies – n. plural a public meeting to support or oppose someone or something

fallen by the wayside – phrase. failure to continue, drop out