Blog

Oct 14, 2024

Ukiah Unified School Desk: Showing up fuels success – The Willits News

By Deb Kubin, superintendent In recent years, one of the most pressing challenges facing schools across the nation has been declining student attendance. While many factors have contributed to this

By Deb Kubin, superintendent

In recent years, one of the most pressing challenges facing schools across the nation has been declining student attendance. While many factors have contributed to this trend, including disruptions caused by the pandemic, it is critical that we refocus our efforts on the importance of regular attendance and its far-reaching benefits for students, families, and the broader community.

We understand that showing up to school is one of the most vital components of student success. Attending school consistently builds confidence, enhances social development, improves academic proficiency, and keeps students on track to meet grade-level expectations.

The relationship between attendance and academic achievement is undeniable. Students who miss even a few days of school quickly fall behind, and the gap only widens as absences accumulate. Missing just two days a month can result in a student being considered chronically absent, meaning they lose roughly 10% of the school year. This level of absenteeism can significantly impact their ability to master key skills and knowledge, placing them at a disadvantage compared to their peers.

Research shows that students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well academically, especially in reading and math. These students are better prepared to meet grade-level expectations, pass important assessments, and graduate on time. For younger students, learning the basics of literacy and numeracy requires consistency and engagement, which is difficult to achieve when they are not in the classroom. For older students, regular attendance is closely linked to higher grades, improved test scores, and a greater likelihood of completing high school.

Beyond academic outcomes, regular attendance plays an important role in helping students develop self-confidence and social skills. School is more than just a place where students learn math and reading; it’s where they form friendships, learn to collaborate with others, and develop the social-emotional skills they will need throughout their lives.

When students attend school regularly, they are more likely to feel connected to their peers and their teachers. They build relationships that foster a sense of belonging, which is crucial for their emotional well-being and academic success. Chronically absent students may feel isolated or disconnected, which can lead to increased anxiety, lower self-esteem, and a lack of engagement in school activities.

Being part of a school community is also key to developing essential life skills like teamwork, communication and problem-solving. These skills are not only essential for personal growth but are also highly valued in the workplace. By attending school regularly, students are better equipped to thrive in their social environments and gain the confidence they need to navigate challenges inside and outside the classroom.

One of the biggest challenges schools face when students are chronically absent is keeping them on track to meet grade-level expectations. Teachers work hard to deliver lessons in a structured, sequential way that builds on previous knowledge. When students miss significant amounts of school, they lose the continuity of these lessons, making it more difficult to catch up.

For many students, falling behind academically can create a vicious cycle. The more they struggle to keep up, the more discouraged they may feel about attending school. This can lead to further absences, and before long, a student may find themselves significantly behind their peers. This is why attending school every day is critical to their success.

As a district, we are committed to providing the support and resources necessary to help students stay on track. We encourage families to communicate with their child’s school if they are facing challenges that impact attendance so that we can work together to find solutions.

We understand that getting children to school every day — on time — can be a challenge, especially in today’s busy world. Whether it’s managing a hectic schedule, handling transportation issues, or dealing with unexpected illnesses, there are many reasons why attendance can feel difficult. That’s why we want to take a moment to sincerely thank the parents and caregivers who make it a priority to ensure their children are present at school each day.

Your commitment to your child’s education is invaluable. By making attendance a priority, you are helping to set the foundation for your child’s future success. We appreciate your partnership in this effort.

Student attendance will continue to be one of the most important factors in determining student success. By working together as a community – parents, teachers, and school staff – we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed academically, build strong social connections, and stay on track for a bright future.