Attendance

Every day a student is absent is a lost opportunity for learning.

• Students can still fall behind if they miss even just a day or two every few weeks.
• By 6th grade, absenteeism is one of three signs that a student may drop out of high school.
• By 9th grade, regular and high attendance is a better predictor of graduation rates than 8th grade test scores.

Attendance is an important life skill that will help your child graduate from college and keep a job. Every day matters!

What you can do to support good attendance

• Talk about the importance of showing up to school every day -- make that the expectation.
• Set a regular bedtime and morning routine.
• Prepare for school the night before, by finishing homework and getting a good night’s sleep.
• Don’t let your student stay home unless they are truly sick. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
• Avoid appointments and extended trips when school is in session.
• Develop back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent.
• Keep track of your student’s attendance. Missing more than nine days could put your student at risk of falling behind.
• Talk to your student’s teachers and counselor if you notice sudden changes in behavior. These could be tied to something going on at school.
• Encourage meaningful afterschool activities, including sports and clubs.