I am so proud of the growth of our students so far this school year. With over half of the third quarter complete, I would like to take some time to review the importance of regular student attendance.

Most children miss a few days of school each year without long-term consequences. However, when students miss too many days, the effects are almost always negative. We are continually working to make our school environment a place where everyone is safe, healthy, and ready to learn. Our school goal is a 96% attendance rate for our TK-6th grade students. Currently, Almondale has a 92.53% attendance rate. Last week, we began incentives to promote attendance at school with the addition of some extra games and music during lunch recess for the grade levels with the highest attendance in 1-3rd and 4-6th. We are looking forward to many events in March that will continue to increase student engagement, involvement, and positively impact student attendance.

Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10 percent or more of school days due to absences for any reason (both excused and unexcused absences). It can translate into students having a difficult time learning to read by the third grade, achieving in middle school, and graduating from high school. Every day a student is absent is a lost opportunity for learning.

What Can Families Do?

Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school and themselves. Families can start building this habit in preschool so they learn right away that students go to school on time, every day. Good attendance will help children do well in high school, college, and in their careers. Here are some suggestions:

Build regular routines for bedtime and the morning,
Set out clothes and pack backpacks the night before,
Pack lunches the night before,
If there is a reason that they aren't looking forward to school regularly, please reach out and let us know so we can address it,
Schedule trips when school is not in session when possible,
Schedule medical appointments after dismissal if possible, and
Talk about the importance of regular attendance and about how your child feels about school. Regular attendance helps to make and build connections with friends and staff. It also supports learning!

Attendance Notifications

After 3, 6, and 9 absences or tardies (excused or unexcused), Almondale sends letters to families that include the dates of the absences and/or tardies, information about the importance of attendance, and next steps. Please note that students who complete independent study packets (3 days +) are not considered absent.

Sincerely,

Jen Pafford

Principal

Almondale Elementary School

jpafford@ruesd.net

Almondale Elementary School

Attendance Matters