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Attendance Matters

November 30, 2018

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Good attendance helps children do well in school and should start as early as preschool and go throughout your child's entire school career.  If attendance is poor by middle and high school, it can be a lead to increased dropout rates.  Developing the habit of good attendance prepares students for success on the job and throughout life. 

As winter begins and the flu season is upon us, it is understandable that some absences are unavoidable.  The important thing is to get your children to school as often as possible.  If too many absences occur, it is still a problem if they are excused or unexcused because they represent too much time lost in the classroom.  Studies show that many children who miss too many days in kindergarten and first grade can struggle academically in later years.  

Preschool and kindergarten are a great time to start building a habit of good attendance. Young children with poor attendance lose out on valuable learning time.  For younger children, setting a regular bedtime and morning routine can be beneficial.  Children need their rest and laying out clothes or backpacks the night before can help ensure your child is not tardy or missing the bus. 

Above all show your child that attendance matters to you and that absence should only occur when they are truly sick. Students who attend school regularly are more likely to graduate and find good jobs.  In fact, a high school graduate makes, on average, a million dollars more than a dropout over a lifetime.  School only gets harder when you stay home too much.  Sometimes it's tempting to stay home because you've got too much work to do, or don't understand what is going on in class but missing a day only make that worse.  

We appreciate the parents and caregivers who we serve in Putnam County and want everyone to know we are here to work with you and your child.  There may be days that your child doesn't feel 100% well but as long as they are not running a fever or contagious coming to school is still the best way to stay on top of your studies and continue to gain the knowledge and education that we strive to provide all students.  

Stay healthy & well and have a wonderful holiday season!