Why do we focus on attendance?

Children can’t learn if they aren’t present in school, so attendance is a must. Consider the following:

5 absences = 1 week of missed instruction

10 absences = 2 weeks of missed instruction

20 absences = 1 month of missed instruction

So what did your student not learn while absent?

By 6th grade, missing 20% (or two months of school) is a critical warning sign of school drop-out.

Schools can influence attendance with attendance incentives, building connections within the school. We believe that poor attendance can be prevented. Parents are best positioned to ensure children attend school and to build the expectation around attendance.

What parents can do:

• Help your child get into the habit and learn the value of regular routines.

• Teach your child that attending school is nonnegotiable unless they are truly sick.

• Build relationships with other families and discuss how you can help each other out (e.g., drop off or pick up children, babysit, translation assistance) in times of need or emergencies.

• Motivate your child to love learning, and attending school. Speak positively about their school experience and help them to see the benefits that come with reaching learning goals.

• Collaborate with school personnel on determining the needs and supports that would benefit your child.