Be Present,
Be Powerful!
Every school day matters.
Students who miss fewer than 9 days of school each year are more likely to:
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Feel connected to teachers and classmates in middle school.
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Become a strong reader by 3rd grade.
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Graduate from high school.
Starting in PreK, regular attendance helps students learn, make friends, build good habits, and prepare for a successful future.
Every family faces challenges from time to time.
Missing school doesn't mean you don't care—it means life happens. The good news is that most attendance challenges can be solved when families and schools work together.
Illness & Medical Appointments
When health comes first...
Children get sick, and medical appointments are important. Whenever possible, returning to school as soon as they're feeling better helps them stay connected.
Ideas to try at home
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Schedule routine appointments outside school hours.
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Return for part of the day if possible.
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Communicate with the school when health concerns continue.
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Learn more about When Is Sick Too Sick to come to school
School may be able to help with
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Attendance planning
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Make-up work
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Health accommodations
The Power of Being Present is Growth.
Transportation Challenges
When getting to school becomes difficult...
A missed bus, car trouble, changing work schedules, or no ride available can quickly turn into missed learning.
Ideas to try at home
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Build a backup transportation plan.
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Set morning reminders or alarms.
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Prepare backpacks and clothes the night before.
School may be able to help with
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Transportation problem-solving
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School bus information
The Power of Being Present is Opportunity.
Housing Changes
When life is in transition...
Moving, temporary housing, or unexpected family changes can make school routines difficult to maintain.
Ideas to try at home
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Keep one consistent morning routine.
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Let the school know about changes.
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Stay connected with your child's teacher.
School may be able to help with
- School supplies
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Meal programs
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McKinney-Vento services
The Power of Being Present is Stability.
School Anxiety, Avoidance, or Refusal
When school feels overwhelming...
Some students worry about friendships, academics, or simply leaving home. These feelings are common and can improve with support.
Ideas to try at home
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Keep morning routines calm and predictable.
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Focus on one successful day at a time.
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Stay connected with a trusted adult at school.
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School Refusal & Anxiety tips & tricks
School may be able to help with
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Check-in/check-out routines
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Gradual return plans
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Trusted adult connections
The Power of Being Present is Connection.
Family Responsibilities
When home needs compete with school...
Helping care for siblings, changing work schedules, or unexpected family responsibilities can make mornings difficult.
Ideas to try at home
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Create a simple morning routine.
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Ask trusted family or friends for occasional help.
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Prepare as much as possible the night before.
School may be able to help with
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Flexible problem-solving
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Community resources
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Family support services/childcare
The Power of Being Present is Support.
We're Here to Help
Discover ways to support school attendance and well-being.
