Student Absences

We know that this is a busy season for many families.  It is a season of travel and exciting plans.  We also know that this is a time of year when many students are absent from school.

Every day of school is important for your child.  While students can do some work at home when they are away from the school, this is no substitute  for time in the classroom.  Students miss introductions to assignments. Students miss hearing, seeing, practicing the expectations for assignments and procedures. Students miss valuable practice time with peers and teachers.

We have been challenging the students to remember that every minute matters. Even during a transition, we expect them to use each moment for their advantage. Every day matters. And there is no substitute for being present for the entire school day.  

Please remember that as teachers we work diligently to help students make up ground that is lost. And also keep in mind that 

• when your child is absent, we miss him/her.  
• when your child is absent, he/she is missed by the whole community.  
• when your child is absent, he/she misses valuable experiences, discussions, and instruction that cannot be fully replicated. 
• when your child returns to school they will feel behind. It will feel hard for them to catch up. 
• they will need to work with diligence with peers who are willing to give up their time to explain what was covered. (and of course additional work with teachers as well) 

For further explanations please review the parent handbook.