Dear Parents and Families,

The school year is half over, and I want to thank you as our partner in your child’s education. We value, appreciate, and seek out your involvement and collaboration for the success of your child.

We are asking all parents to help us ensure the regular, on-time attendance of their children at school. We monitor attendance closely because research has shown that regular attendance is vital for the success of children in school. California law states that absences are excused only if the child is ill or there is an excuse which meets the requirements of the California Education Code Section 48205. Even excused absences that cause your child to miss significant amounts of school can cause your child to fall behind in class.

Education Code Section 48260 defines a truant as a pupil who has missed more than 30 minutes on three days without valid excuse in one school year. Our goal is to have all children present in school every day and on time. Our district’s policy is that we may require verification of absences due to illness or quarantine, if your child has missed school for three consecutive days. Please be aware that going “out of town” when school is in session with your child is an unexcused absence.

I look forward to working with you in a meaningful partnership for your child. Black Oak Mine USD will work very hard with you to ensure that your child receives the best education possible. We are depending on you, and we want to thank you for entrusting us with your child. To provide your child with an outstanding education, your child must maintain excellent attendance.

Enclosed you will find a copy of this year’s school calendar to assist in your family’s scheduling. Please also visit our school website to review the Student Handbook.

If you have any questions, please call Bridget Isham our Family and School Together Coordinator at 530-334-3305 or email at bisham@bomusd.org for extra support on attendance.

Take care,

Ron Morris

Principal

Golden Sierra Junior Senior High School

(530)333-8330

Studies show that consistent attendance from Pre-K gives the best start for early literacy development. Students who aren't reading on grade level by 3rd grade have a lower chance of graduating. It starts that early!

Don't miss out on hands-on learning experiences outside the classroom, like visits to museums, nature centers, science centers, parks, and performances of all kinds. These enriching experiences help students figure out their passions.

Attending daily allows students to foster strong social bonds and an inclusive peer network. Even if not all friendships work out, developing the skills is only possible with ongoing interaction. Students who develop their social skills through school attendance have more positive relationships, overall.

Good attendance instills vital skills like punctuality, time management and self-discipline. A big part of succeeding is learning how to learn. Daily attendance from elementary onwards helps students build their toolbox of strategies for success.

Employers value established patterns of dedication and follow-through. Whether students are getting after school jobs in high school, or securing employment after graduation, good work habits are formed by consistent school attendance. It's also how students get teachers to serve as references!

Fewer disruptions means more personalized learning and academic support. Sometimes, students don't come to school because they're struggling with the material in class and staying home is a way to avoid it. But the better choice is to come to school -- that's where the support is. The more time students have with their teachers, the more successful they will be.

Not having to play catch-up reduces stress and boosts self-assurance. This is exactly what will carry students successfully through graduation and beyond.

Abundant research links stellar attendance to higher GPAs and test scores. In fact, one study shows that the #1 reason students fail a course is from being absent.

Colleges want applicants with strong attendance showing perseverance. And it's not just colleges! If you're choosing a new school for middle school or high school, students must demonstrate good attendance above all.

Excellent attendance correlates to higher career achievement and earnings potential. And not just that! It correlates to better physical and mental health, healthier relationships, and a happier quality of life. Something we want for every child!