Why Attendance Matters: From the Eyes of a Teacher

By Samantha Jonat and Jessica Whynott

Why is attendance important from the eyes of a teacher? Attending school is an important part of your child’s education. Being at school has a major impact on a child’s academic and social development. Going to school regularly is more than a routine; it is setting your child up for success.

Each day is planned by the teacher with the attendance of your child in mind. Each lesson builds from the days prior learning. If your child is absent they are not getting the instruction needed to perform the day’s task. Since each day builds upon the next, any day missed is a skill missed. Missing even a few days of school can result in gaps in a student’s understanding. These gaps can increase over time, leading to academic struggles that might be difficult to overcome. Consistent attendance ensures that your child is exposed to all lessons, discussions, and activities, allowing them the opportunity to learn.

When a child is in the classroom, it allows them to actively participate in various learning activities. These activities include; student-to-student conversations and hands-on experiences that teach critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This active participation improves their academic performance but also teaches children the social skills needed to be problem solvers for the present and future.

Taking your child to school everyday helps them develop a sense of routine and consistency. Attending school on a daily basis builds community between school and home, and home and school. When parents and teachers work together, it helps instill these qualities that are essential for each child’s future success, both in education and in the real world. This has a direct effect on a child’s ability to maintain commitments and responsibilities from a young age. They will be better equipped to manage their time effectively and prioritize tasks as they grow older.

As a parent you play a major role when your child attends school daily as you are allowing your child to develop social skills. Interacting with classmates, teachers, and other school staff strengthens friendships, empathy, and creates a sense of belonging. Consistent attendance enables students to form meaningful relationships and build a support system within the school community.

Parents and guardians play a crucial role in ensuring that their children attend school regularly, complete assignments, and stay engaged in their studies. When parents prioritize attendance, they send a clear message that education is a priority. This collaboration between parents, school, and teachers creates an environment for academic growth and success.

Attendance is an essential part of education that significantly influences academic achievement, active participation, routine development, social skills, and parental involvement. Having your child attend school regularly provides a solid foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth. By recognizing the significance of attendance early, you as a parent are promoting a positive and consistent school-going habit, ensuring that each child has the best possible start to their academic and personal development.

Attendance By the Numbers

• Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing more than 10 percent of school days in a year, or just 2 days a month.

• Did you know that when a student misses 2 days of school a month, they will miss 20 days a year?

• When a student misses 2 days of school a month, they will miss over 1 year of school by graduation?

• When a student misses 2 days of school a month, they will miss 30 hours of math over the school year?

• When a student misses 2 days of school a month, they will miss 60 hours of reading and writing over the school year?

• Did you know that for every day of school missed, it takes 3 days to make up what was taught?