Daily Tips for Families

Today's Tip for Families

05-12-2024

Absences Affect Success

As the end of the school year approaches, it may be tempting to keep your child out of school for other activities for a few days. But studies show that missing days in elementary school can lead to problems later on.

When kids miss class time, they miss learning. They don't hear when the teacher explains how to multiply fractions. They don't hear class discussions or the answers to questions their classmates ask. They miss hands-on demonstrations. They miss the first chapter of the next book the class will read together.

When they return, these students have to work hard to catch up. Sometimes, they feel like they can’t get back to where their classmates are. So they give up. Or, as they get older, they drop out of school completely. One research study found that sixth graders who miss about one day of school a week have a 75 percent chance of never making it to graduation.

Make it a priority to have your child attend every class every day—even as the school year winds down. You'll be teaching the lesson that attendance matters. And you could be heading off big trouble as your child gets older.

Brought to you by:

West Point Consolidated School District