As we
begin the new school year, I'd like to remind everyone about the importance of good
school attendance. Students
with regular attendance have higher achievement, are more engaged, are more
positive, and have greater aspirations. When students miss just one day of
school, they lose considerable opportunities to learn. Even though some school
work can be completed at home, on-line, or as make-up assignments, the majority
cannot be replicated. Class discussions, hands-on activities, and interaction with
teachers and other students can only happen in school. Additionally, students
with high absenteeism in school tend to miss work more often as adults which
may result in a loss of employment. Good habits and attitudes built during
childhood lead to good habits and attitudes in adulthood.
In
the 2015-16 school year, about 20% of our Westbrook students were absent more
than 15 days. While the majority of those students had excused absences because
of illness, emergency, or other valid reasons, this is still a high percentage.
Our Student Service Teams in all of our schools are ready to work with families
to help students have better attendance at all age levels.
Some
things families can do to encourage good attendance are:
• Set a regular bedtime
and morning routine;
• Promote sleep and
exercise;
• Avoid medical or other
appointments during the school day. If an appointment cannot be avoided, bring
your child to school late. Attending for part of a day is better than missing a
whole day.
• Meet with teachers and
school counselors if students seem anxious or nervous about school, social
situations, tests, or other potential stressors.
• Talk with your
children about their day. Ask questions and look for school work. By showing an interest in things happening at
school, we encourage our kids to be more engaged.
Let’s
all make regular school attendance a priority this year!
