Attendance

Why is attendance important?

Students are required by law in the state of Pennsylvania to attend school.  Attendance is also important for engagement, learning & academic success.  

Did you know?

• By 9th grade, attendance is a better predictor of graduation rates than 8th grade test scores.

• Students should miss no more than 9 days of school each year to stay engaged, successful and on track to graduation. 

What can parents and guardians do to support attendance?

• Make school attendance a priority 

• Talk about the importance of showing up to school every day. 

• Help your student maintain daily routines, such as finishing homework and getting a good night’s sleep. 

• Try not to schedule dental and non-urgent related medical appointments during the school day. 

• If your student must stay home because they are sick, make sure they have asked teachers for resources and materials to make up for the missed learning time in the classroom. 

How can parents and guardians support academic success?

• Monitor your student’s academic progress and seek help from teachers or tutors when necessary.

• Be aware of your student's social contacts as peer pressure can lead to skipping school. 

• Encourage your student to join meaningful after-school activities, including sports and clubs and events as as students without social connections at school can feel isolated.

• Notice and support your student if they are showing signs of anxiety.

• Find out if your student feels engaged by their classes.

• Find out if your student feels safe from bullies and other threats. 

• Make sure your student is not missing class because of challenges with behavioral issues or school discipline policies. 

Communicate with the school

• Know your school’s attendance policies – incentives and penalties. 

• Check on your student’s attendance to be sure absences are not adding up. 

• Seek help from teachers, school staff, other parents, or community agencies if you need support. 

Source: Attendance Works