The Importance of School Attendance

Research has proven that there is a high correlation between school attendance and academic performance and success -- absenteeism is often the greatest single cause of poor performance and achievement.

 
Why is it so important to attend every day?

• Learning is a progressive activity – each day’s lessons build upon those of the previous day(s)
• Reading the material and completing work independently does not make up for the loss of insight gained during class discussion or the loss of competency acquired through explanation.
• Many classes use lectures, discussions, demonstrations, experiments, and participation as part of the daily learning activities and these cannot be made up if absent.
• Regular student participation in daily classroom activities plays a significant role in a student’s school success.

 Are there other benefits to my child having regular attendance?

• Students with good attendance usually achieve higher grades and enjoy school more.
• Having a good education will help to give your child the best possible start in life.
• Regular school attendance patterns encourage the development of other responsible patterns of behavior.
• Students who develop an “on the job” attitude toward school will be more desirable to future employers.

What are the risks of frequent absences?

• A child who does not attend school regularly will be unlikely to keep up with the work.
• The more students miss school, the lower their grades; the lower their grades, the less they want to stay in school; the less they want to stay in school, the more likely they will drop out of school.
• Students who miss school are more likely to be at-risk for anti-social or criminal behavior.

What can parents do to help?

• Parents must model the value of education, including the importance of regular attendance.
• Make sure that your child goes to school regularly and arrives on time – you will establish a good habit that will carry through life.
• If your child starts missing school, make sure he/she understands that you do not approve of absenteeism.
• If your child is ill or must miss school for some other reason, contact the school immediately.  Ask for homework, and make sure your child completes it before returning to school.
• Whenever possible, arrange family vacations during school holidays so that children miss as little school as possible.
• Take an in interest in your child’s school work and be involved in the school as much as possible – your child will value school more if you do.

If your child is sick or misses school, an excuse needs to be turned in within 3 days upon returen from the absence.  Excuses can be submited through any of the following ways:

1.  Student may turn in written note to first peirod teacher or the main office attendance administrative assistant.

2.  Parent may email a note to:  ejhsattendance@pmsd.org

3.  Parent or Dr. may fax note to Attendance at #570-839-3242.

Remember, regular attendance is necessary for success in school.  Help ensure that your child has the best opportunity for success by making sure he/she is in school every day.