As we begin another school year, we want to highlight an issue that significantly impacts our children’s education—chronic absenteeism. At STMA, we are committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed, and regular school attendance is a crucial part of this success.
What is Chronic Absenteeism?
Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year (about 17 days per year or two days per month) for any reason—excused or unexcused. This means that even just two days of missed school per month can add up to significant gaps in learning. Research shows that students who are chronically absent are more likely to fall behind in reading and math, struggle socially, and are less likely to graduate on time.
Why Attendance Matters
Regular attendance is vital for your child’s academic success. Each day, teachers build on the lessons from the previous day, and missing even a couple of days can disrupt a student’s learning process. Beyond academics, consistent attendance helps students build positive relationships with their peers and school staff, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
How You Can Help: Strategies for Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers
You play a crucial role in ensuring that your child attends school regularly. Here are some strategies to help:
- Set a Routine: Establish a consistent daily schedule that includes a regular bedtime and morning routine. This can help reduce the stress of getting ready for school each day.
- Talk About the Importance of School: Discuss with your child why attending school is important. Encourage them to see school as a place where they can learn, make friends, and achieve their goals.
- Monitor Attendance: Keep track of how many days your child has missed. If they start missing more than a couple of days, reach out to their teacher or school counselor for support.
- Schedule Appointments Outside School Hours: Whenever possible, try to schedule doctor’s appointments, family trips, and other commitments outside of school hours.
- Stay Engaged: Stay in touch with your child’s teachers and school staff. If your child is struggling with schoolwork or experiencing anxiety about attending school, communicate with us so we can work together to find solutions.
- Address Health Issues: If your child is frequently ill, consult with a healthcare provider to address any underlying health concerns. Ensure that your child is getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active to support their overall health.
- Create a Positive School Experience: Encourage your child to get involved in school activities, clubs, or sports. When children are engaged and enjoy school, they are more likely to attend regularly.
We’re Here to Support You
We understand that life can be unpredictable, and there may be times when your child has to miss school. If you are facing challenges that make it difficult for your child to attend school regularly, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to support you with resources and strategies to ensure your child stays on track.
Together, we can help all our students build a bright future. Thank you for your partnership in making sure every day counts for our students.
