Dear Parent/Guardian:

Our goal this year is to ensure that every student attends school regularly. While we realize that some absences are unavoidable due to health problems or other circumstances, we also know that
when students miss too much school, regardless of the reason, it can cause them to fall behind academically. Research shows:

• Children who are chronically absent in kindergarten and first grade are much less likely to read at grade level by the end of third grade.
• By sixth grade, chronic absence is a proven early warning sign for students at risk of dropping out of school.
• By ninth grade, good attendance can predict graduation rates even better than eighth grade test scores.

Absences can add up quickly. A child is chronically absent if he or she misses just two days of school each month! Clearly, regular school attendance is crucial for your child’s success!

Here are a few practical tips to help support regular attendance:
• Establish a regular bedtime and morning routine for your children.
• Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.
• Ensure your children attend school every day unless they are sick.
• Avoid scheduling vacations or doctor’s appointments when school is in session.
• Talk to teachers and counselors for advice if your children feel anxious about going to school.
• Develop a backup plan for getting your child to school if something unexpected arises.

We are here to support you and your children in achieving regular attendance and academic success. We want to help ensure that they show up for school on time every day. If you have
questions or need more information, please contact your child’s school.

Sincerely,

Michelle H. Powell
Coordinator of Student Services