Attendance Matters.
Show Up WO!
Regular school attendance is the foundation for student success, fostering academic growth, personal development, and lifelong learning. At West Ottawa, we are committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive by promoting consistent attendance and providing the support families need to overcome barriers. Together, we can create a culture of engagement and excellence, where every day counts, we want you to #ShowUpWO!
The numbers
Why it matters?
DID YOU KNOW?
- Absences can be a sign that a teen is losing interest, struggling with school work, dealing with interpersonal conflict or facing some other difficulty?
- By 6th grade, absenteeism is one of three signs that a student might drop out of high school.
- Missing 10% or 2 days per month can drastically affect a student’s academic success.
Our school buildings have resources to help! Ask for help from the office staff if you need help with food, housing or another challenge.
| Regular Attendance: 5% or less | 9 Days |
| At-risk Attendance: 5.1-9.9% | 10 – 18 Days |
| Chronic Absent: more than 10% | More than 18 Days |
| Severe Chronic Absent: more than 20% | More than 36 Days |
Resources
What to do as Parents?
Make School Attendance a Priority
- Talk about the importance of showing up to school everyday, so your student knows that this is the expectation.
- Encourage your student to maintain daily routines, such as when to put cell phones away or getting a good night’s sleep.
- Avoid scheduling non-urgent dental and medical appointments whens classes are in session.
- Post your teen’s class schedule and login information in a visible location, such as on a refridgerator or desk.
- Ask your school or community agencies if they resources for you to access.
Recommendations
Help Your Child Stay Healthy and Engaged
- Find out if your students have any barriers. Ask your student often and listen for any red flags.
- Check in weekly about your child’s academic progress. Check Infinite Campus often for academic, behavior and attendance information.
- Stay on top of your child’s social contacts online and offline. Ensure a safe environment online for your student.
Showing up Matters for R.E.A.L
Build Routines
Increase Engagement
Provide Access to Resources
Support Learning