Pawling High School

The education of today’s youth requires a collective effort involving families, schools and communities.  By supporting regular school day attendance, we help lay the foundation for a lifelong commitment to learning.  When students attend school consistently, they develop routines and habits that carry forward into adulthood, equipping them with the tools needed to pursue higher education and career opportunities.

Missing school days can lead to gaps in learning, making it harder for students to keep up with the curriculum.  In fact, starting as early as preschool and kindergarten, regular attendance is essential for students gaining the academic and social skills they need to thrive.  Research shows that when students are chronically absent (missing 10% or more of the school year or 18 days over an entire year), they are less likely to read proficiently by third grade, achieve in middle school and graduate from high school.

Here’s what you can do to help your student build good attendance habits:

• Stay informed. Understand your student’s attendance to be sure absences aren’t adding up.
• Talk about it. Start a conversation about the importance of showing up for success in school and in life.
• Set expectations. Unless your child is sick, they should be in school every day.
• Sleep matters. Set a regular bedtime and morning routine to help your student be rested and ready.
• Be prepared. Get ready for the school day the night before and build in a little extra time in the morning.
• Make a backup plan. If something comes up, have a family member, neighbor, or another parent help you get your student to school.
• Schedule carefully. Try to plan medical appointments and extended trips when school isn’t in session.

The students of today are the leaders of tomorrow.  Regular engagement in school equips youth with the knowledge, critical thinking skills, and diverse perspectives needed to make informed decisions and drive positive change in their communities and beyond.

Attendance Matters!