At Indian River, we believe that good attendance is a crucial life skill that contributes to a child's academic success and overall well-being.  The decision to divert to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic was a necessary one, but the effects of that are still felt today.  Research shows that children are struggling academically and failing to find a sense of belonging within their schools.  Overcoming these hurdles is a priority among our administrators, teachers and staff, but to do this, we need our students to show up for school.

A student is considered chronically absent when they miss 10% or more of school days, regardless of whether those absences are excused or unexcused.  That's equivalent to about 18 missed days over the course of an academic year.  A study from the U.S. Department of Education revealed that 14.7 million students were considered chronically absent in 2021-2022 school year.

Of course, if your child is sick, we encourage you to keep them home until they feel better (When To Keep Your Child Home), but understanding chronic absenteeism can help set your child up for a better future.

How do we fix this?

Students with asthma, anxiety and ADHD make up a large portion of those who miss school frequently. However, any chronic, untreated illness can discourage your child from wanting to go to school. Make an appointment with your child’s healthcare provider to discuss chronic absenteeism and make a plan to improve attendance.

Consider your child’s age and developmental level when investigating causes of chronic absenteeism.

Primary School:

• Transitioning from home/daycare to school can be challenging for kindergarteners.

• Students with poor oral health or tooth decay are more likely to miss school.

• Undiagnosed disabilities may prevent kids from getting proper accommodations.

• There may be a misconception that absences at this level “don’t count”.

• Children in this age group rely on caregivers to make their routine and schedule.

Intermediate and Middle Schools:

• Transitioning to new schools every couple years can be challenging.

• Students may have trouble making friends, or they may be subjected to bullying.

• Hormonal fluctuations can cause irritability, fatigue and hypersensitivity.

• They may be quietly struggling with the more rigorous academic curriculum.

• Students may become distracted by friendships and relationships.

High School:

• Students desire total independence and making choices on their terms.

• Feelings of invincibility may convince students that there are no consequences.

• Some may feel that a diploma is not necessary for the career they want.

• Unhealthy family situations may overshadow priorities at school.

• Students may develop burnout from persistent pressure to excel.

• Set a regular bedtime and wake time, even on weekends.

• Set a screen time curfew to help encourage better sleep habits and avoid “doom-scrolling.”

• Help your child lay out clothes and pack lunch pails and backpacks the night before school.

• Ask students open-ended questions about school.

• Reach out to teachers and guidance counselors if there are any concerns.

• Model and reinforce good habits and routines at home.

• Monitor grades and identify any changes that signal a potential problem.

• Encourage academics as a priority over other extracurricular activities.

• Ask kids about peer pressure, bullying or difficulty making friends.

• Set parental controls on games, phones and social media apps if this is an issue.

• Engage in conversations with your child that are free of judgment or ultimatums.