Message from the Superintendent

Annually we set a District-wide goal of 97% for our average daily
attendance. During the first attendance reporting period, we were far from
this goal, due to the flu epidemic. Indications from the health advisors is
that the flu epidemic is not yet over. However, we want to keep this
attendance goal in mind as we continue to strive to reach it. I am providing
you with some suggestions on how teachers, administrators and all staff can
(directly and indirectly) impact student attendance along with their desire to
attend school. It has been proven that staff members (like each of you) who
provide and model caring relationships, high expectations, a structured
learning environment and opportunities for students to participate and
contribute — can indeed turn our students’ lives around.
• Make students and their families feel welcome. Greeting them when they
arrive and posting signs in their native language are just a couple of ways
to communicate to parents and students that they are valued members of
our school community.
• Reward and recognize good attendance, not just perfect attendance. Post
signs and announcements on the school website and in the library.
• When students are afraid of being ridiculed or criticized by both
teachers and other students, or are afraid of making mistakes, they are less
likely to want to attend class(es). School staff can create an environment
of mutual respect, which our students are not afraid to speak up.
• Teachers, Administrators and School Counselors can help with family
problems, supporting them within our School District and/or by seeking
referrals to other agencies.
• Teachers can provide high expectations for all students, guide students in
focusing on their strengths and challenge students to work beyond their
own expectations.
• Create shared learning opportunities for students to work together —
either during whole-group or small-group lessons or with peer tutoring.
Research indicates that this encourages students’ motivation and
engagement. RHB
The average loss to the District for each day of student absence: $86.52