Encouraging regular school attendance is one of the most powerful ways to help prepare children for success — both in school and in life. When school attendance is a priority, children are apt to get better grades, develop healthy life habits, avoid dangerous behavior, and have a better chance of graduating from high school. Every day a student is absent is a lost opportunity for learning. Too many absences not only can affect achievement for the absent student, but also can disrupt learning for the entire class.

The school calendar accounts for 180 academic school days for students. Research shows that a student should be present 95% of the time to meet regular attendance standards. In a 180 day school year, that means the student should be present at least 171 school days to be considered in regular attendance. Even missing just 10% or two days a month can cause students to be more likely to not read at grade level, and more likely to not graduate.

According to OSPI research shows that students who miss 10 or more school days will be adversely affected in their learning. In fact, 64% of students who have regular attendance will meet reading standard by the end of third grade. However, only 43% of students who are “at risk” in attendance during their Kindergarten or first grade year will meet reading standard by the end of their third grade year. Research also shows, that students who do not meet grade level in reading by their third grade year are four times less likely to graduate high school.

Absences can affect the whole classroom if the teacher has to slow down learning to help children catch up. Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school and themselves.

Kindergarten - Fifth Grade:

• Set a regular bedtime and morning routine
• Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before
• Start the day with a healthy breakfast
• Find out what day school starts and make sure your child has the required shots
• Introduce your child to his/her teachers and classmates before school starts to help them transition
• Don’t let your child stay home unless he/she are truly sick. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home
• If your child seems anxious about going to school, talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make him/her feel comfortable and excited about learning.
• Develop backup plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent.
• Avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.

Middle & High School

• Talk about the importance of showing up to school everyday, make that the expectation
• Help your child maintain daily routines, such as finishing homework and getting a good night’s sleep
• Try not to schedule dental and medical appointments during the school day
• Don’t let your child stay home unless truly sick. Complaints of headaches or stomach aches may be signs of anxiety
• Find out if your child feels engaged by his classes and feels safe from bullies and other threats. Make sure he/she is not missing class because of behavioral issues and school discipline policies. If any of these are problems, work with your school
• Stay on top of academic progress and seek help from teachers or tutors if necessary. Make sure teachers know how to contact you
• Stay on top of your child’s social contacts. Peer pressure can lead to skipping school, while students without many friends can feel isolated
• Encourage meaningful after school activities, including sports and clubs
• Know attendance policy – incentives and penalties
• Talk to teachers if you notice sudden changes in behavior. These could be tied to something going on at school
• Check on your child’s attendance to be sure absences are not piling up
• Ask for help from school officials, afterschool programs, other parents or community agencies if you’re having trouble getting your child to school