Chronic absenteeism, missing more than 20 days in a school year, is an early indicator of disengagement. High absence rates have negative consequences not only for individual students, but also for classroom instruction and school climate.

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Here are some helpful tips you can use to help your child come to school on time every day:

~Set a regular bedtime and morning routine.

~Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.

~Don’t let your child stay home unless he/she is truly sick.

~If your child seems anxious about going to school, talk to teachers, the school counselor, or other parents for advice on how to make him/her feel comfortable.

~Develop backup plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call a family member, a neighbor or another parent.

~Avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.