The Algoma District School Board is highlighting the importance of regular school attendance and is reminding parents, guardians, caregivers, community partners and students that “Every School Day Counts!”
Good attendance makes a difference and showing up for school has a huge impact on a student’s academic success starting in kindergarten and continuing through high school. Research tells us that children who are chronically absent in kindergarten and first grade are less likely to read proficiently by third grade and students who don't read well by third grade are more likely to struggle in school. They are also more likely to be chronically absent in later years since they have never developed good attendance habits.
We know that some absences are unavoidable due to health problems or other circumstances. Occasionally, children get sick and need to stay home. What is important is getting children to school as often as possible. Remember, excused and unexcused absences add up quickly and when students miss too much school – regardless of the reason – it can cause them to fall behind academically.
Persistent absenteeism means missing 10% of school days (or more) due to absence for any reason. DID YOU KNOW: Ten per cent of the school year = approximately 18 days. That can be as few as two days per month. Before you know it, those days have added up! This is true whether absences are excused or unexcused, whether they come consecutively or sporadically throughout the school year. By sixth grade, chronic absence becomes a warning sign that a student will drop out of high school. By ninth grade, it has become a more accurate indicator of dropout potential than how well a student does on eight-grade tests.
The good news is persistent absenteeism is a problem we can solve together. School communities and community partners can make a difference by encouraging students and families to be engaged in school activities and students’ learning. Adults can set an example for students by modelling their own commitment to regular attendance whether it be at work or other functions.
All members of the school community - staff, mentors, coaches, volunteers, bus drivers or other caring adults or classmates - can be that one trusted person who can be the difference between a child attending school or not, as research tells us that students are more likely to go to school when they know someone cares that they are there and cares about their learning.
No one wants their child to fall behind in school or to become discouraged. Ensuring students attend school every day and arrive on time are important first steps to supporting school success.
Here are a few additional practical tips to help support regular school attendance:
- Make sure your children keep a regular bedtime and establish a morning routine.
- Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.
- Ensure your children go to school every day unless they're truly sick.
- As much as possible, avoid scheduling vacations or doctor appointments when school is in session.
- Talk to teachers and counsellors for advice if your children feel anxious about going to school.
- Develop backup plans for getting to school if something unexpected happens. Call on a family member, neighbour or another parent to take your child to school.
We want ALL students to be successful in school! When we reduce chronic absence we improve graduation rates, increase academic achievement and give our students the best chance at success in their adult lives. Let’s all work together to support and promote the message that Every School Day Counts!
For further information or if you have questions, please visit www.adsb.on.ca or call the Algoma District School Board at 705-945-7111.
Confident Learners and Caring Citizens
~ Attendance Impacts Achievement ~