Message from Superintendent Dr . Lynn Moody
Challenging Parents and Guardians : Be Sure Your Children Know GOOD ATTENDANCE MATTERS
Sounds simple - but we need our children in school .
Time with our students is precious and limited , and every minute of instructional time is valuable . The importance of school attendance is often underestimated , but for a child to be successful in school , they need to be there every day and arrive on time . We encourage you to set the example and talk with your child about the importance of good school attendance .
Arriving Late / Leaving Early
While visiting schools , I frequently observe a parent or guardian checking their child in late or checking them out early . It concerns me that the child is missing such valuable instruction . When students are absent from school , they are missing so much that is important to their success .
If your child is late on a regular basis , they could easily miss 10 percent of the school year . This results in children feeling stressed and frustrated because they have missed critical instruction . They begin the day behind since their peers are already well into their class work for the day . School is much harder for students that arrive late or miss the entire school day .
Sickness
We understand when your child is sick . But even when students miss school for excused absences , they can quickly fall behind with instruction . I ask that you please work with your child ’ s teacher and / or the school counselor to make up missed work . Too many sick days can create a substantial loss of learning time , so be sure you are talking with the school counselor or school nurse should your child have extending illnesses .
Kindergarten and First Grade
Often kindergarten and first grade parents may think attendance is not important . However , research shows that missed days in kindergarten and first grade significantly reduce the chance of your child learning to read by third grade . Start early to build the habit of good attendance beginning in kindergarten to increase your child ’ s chance of being successful throughout their school and college years . Be sure your child knows that school is their first and most important job .
Consideration For All Students
Even being five minutes late for school can impact the entire class . Tardiness can cause disruption and slow down instruction . Teachers often need to start over or change their lesson plans to accommodate students who are tardy or absent .
Working Together As we work together to provide the best school experience for all our children , here are a few tips for parents to help guide you in this process .
TIPS FOR PARENTS
• Plan family vacations on non-school days .
• Schedule doctor appointments after school .
• Talk with your child about the importance of a healthy work habit that begins with regular school attendance .
• Remind your child that their future success in college can be determined by regular school attendance .
• Establish regular morning routines .
• Establish regular bedtime routines , including packing book bags and laying out clothes the night before . Remove cell phones , video games , and computers from your child ’ s bedroom . Ensure your child is getting 8 to 10 hours of sleep .
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We Are Here To Help
Most important , don ’ t be afraid to ask for help . If you are facing tough challenges , ask the school for assistance . If you need help with transportation , health care or food , let us know . If your family is experiencing a crisis , we want to help you . We are ready and willing to be your partner .
Set Goals Today ! Set 100 % percent attendance with your child as the goal this year and watch their academic performance increase !
For More Information , please refer to the following website that was used as a source for this article : http :// www . attendanceworks . org .
Lynn Moody , Ed . D Superintendent Rowan-Salisbury Schools
2 • November / December 2016 • Parent Teacher News