Attendance Matters: Building Strong Habits for Student Success
Every missed day adds up. Even a few absences a month can lead to weeks of lost learning by the end of the year. During Attendance Awareness Month, EUSD encourages families to help students build consistent habits that lead to long-term success.
Quick Facts on Absences:
- Missing 2 days a month equals 20 missed school days a year, adding up to over 1 year of school lost by graduation.
- Missing 4 days a month equals 40 missed school days a year, adding up to over 2 years of school lost by graduation.
- Students who miss school frequently also miss out on critical instruction time, up to 120 hours of reading and 60 hours of math over time.
Every day counts. Consistent attendance not only impacts academic growth but also helps students feel more connected to their school community, build stronger friendships, and stay engaged in activities that inspire learning.
Tips for Families:
- Set a daily routine. Prepare clothes, lunches, and backpacks the night before to reduce stress in the morning.
- Use healthy habits. Encourage plenty of sleep and breakfast each day to help students feel ready to learn.
- Plan appointments wisely. Schedule medical or personal appointments outside of school hours whenever possible.
- Monitor attendance. Keep track of days missed and talk with your child about the importance of being in school.
- Stay connected. Reach out to your school if challenges like transportation, health, or family needs are affecting attendance—resources and support are available.
At Eastside Union School District, we believe every student deserves the best chance at success. By working together, families and schools can build strong attendance habits that last a lifetime.