September 11, 2024
Re: School Attendance
Dear Parent/Guardian:
As our district continues to focus on the attendance of our students. We want to first say we know there are times when missing school is necessary. Illnesses which are highly contagious to others, court appearances, college visits, etc… are times when students need to miss school. However, we are hoping that providing information which indicates we have an attendance issue may cause all stakeholders to view missing school somewhat differently.
During the 2023-24 school year, 26% of our students were considered “Chronically Absent” by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce. Our district is expected to address this problem and reduce the number of absences by 1.1% each year. For a student to be considered “Chronically Absent” he or she misses 10% or more days of school. Ten percent of the school year equals 18 days. All days missed, whether excused or unexcused (even with a doctor’s excuse), count toward the 18-day threshold. Additionally, tardies and early releases add up and become part of the total days missed.
We are asking our parents and guardians to help with this issue. Scheduling appointments at the beginning and end of days will help; however, scheduling appointments on days not in school would be preferred. We do understand these recommendations are not always possible. Also, expecting your child to attend even if they are tired or not feeling their best (not contagious) is helping prepare them for life. Good employees are expected to go to work when possible. We need our kids to develop this habit.
Studies show that students who miss large amounts of school will grow and achieve at a much lower level, and this can ultimately affect their quality of life, which also impacts their social-emotional well-being. In our district, students who meet the definition of chronically absent will be a consideration for retention to their current grade, especially if the student is also considered as working below grade level. Finally, Ohio does have attendance laws for school age children as well. These laws have various thresholds, depending on the nature of the absence (excused vs. unexcused). It is always our goal for our students and parents to not in jeopardy with the court system.
Please know each school has incorporated incentives to recognize good attendance. We want to celebrate individuals, classes, and grade levels who are attending regularly. The majority of our students are reliable and working hard. With parent and/or guardian support, we will meet the state target and reduce the percentage of students considered “Chronically Absent.” We appreciate your help in addressing this issue. Ultimately, good school attendance will lead to greater success for our students!
Respectfully,
Phillip Kuhn
Superintendent,
Gallia County Local Schools