Dear Purple Eagle Families,
Welcome Back! September is a good time to remind our students and families that regular school attendance is vital for success. When students attend school regularly, starting as early as preschool and kindergarten, they have an opportunity to achieve academically and thrive. When chronically absent, meaning missing 18 or more days in the school year, students are less likely to read at grade level or graduate and more at risk of dropping out of school.
During the pandemic, the chronic absence of students across the nation nearly tripled, according to Attendance Works . Black, Latino, and Native American students, students living in poverty, students with disabilities, and English language learners have been significantly affected.
The good news is that when we take steps to reduce chronic absence, it benefits our entire society. We all prosper when children and youth – regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, neighborhood, or income – have the opportunity to gain skills and abilities that prepare them for success in school, work, and life.
Every school day matters, starting in kindergarten and even preschool and continuing through the senior year in high school. It doesn't take long for a student to fall behind. Fall far enough, and we may lose them. We can't let that happen.
Keeping kids in school is everyone's responsibility.
What Families Can Do:
Check the Parent Portal regularly. The online information system helps monitor attendance and grades and allows families to communicate with teachers and the school.
If your child misses several days, reach out to the school for support and guidance on how to get them back on track.
Refer to our school’s attendance policy when deciding if you should keep your child home from school.
Help your child feel safe. If they refuse to go to school, they might need emotional support, or it might be a sign of a problem at school. Reach out to the school counselor.
Get involved! Getting involved with your child's school will help you understand what is going on and be a part of the school community.
Update your contact information immediately when there are changes.
Let your child's school know if you need any help with school supplies, etc.
Seek help from school staff, other parents, or community agencies if you need support.
We’re here to help!
Mickey Edwards
Superintendent of Schools
