BE BRAVE & BE PRESENT

 by Robert "Bob" Lewandowski

As we prepare for the upcoming school year, we want to highlight a critical component of academic success: consistent school attendance. At Sacaton Elementary School District #18, we understand that every day of school is a valuable opportunity for learning, growth, and development. We are committed to ensuring that every student benefits from the full range of educational experiences we offer. This is our “Mission Possible” here at Sacaton. We want you to know that your student’s attendance matters.

Why Attendance Matters:

**1. Impact on Academic Achievement: Regular attendance is crucial for academic success. Each day of instruction builds upon the previous day, and missing school means missing out on important lessons and activities. Studies consistently show that students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform better academically, achieve higher test scores, and graduate on time.

**2. Social and Emotional Development: School is not just about academics; it's also a place where students develop social skills, build relationships, and learn to navigate social situations. Frequent absences can impede social development, making it challenging for students to connect with their peers and engage fully in group activities.

**3. Long-Term Effects: Chronic absenteeism can have lasting consequences. Students who miss school frequently are at greater risk of falling behind academically, which can affect their future educational opportunities and career prospects. Establishing good attendance habits early on helps set the foundation for future success in higher education and beyond.

To support our commitment to improving attendance and ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed, we are excited to re-introduce our district-wide initiative: "Must Be Present To Win."

"Must Be Present to Win" Initiative:

Our "Must Be Present To Win" initiative is designed to emphasize the importance of consistent school attendance and to celebrate the efforts of students who demonstrate dedication to their education. Here’s how the initiative works:

• Recognition and Rewards: Students with excellent attendance will be recognized throughout the year. This can include special certificates, incentives, and participation in exclusive events designed to celebrate their engagement.

• Support for Families: We understand that there may be challenges that affect attendance. Our initiative includes providing resources and support to families to help overcome barriers to regular attendance. We are here to work with you to ensure that every student can make the most of their time at school.

• Community Engagement: We will be hosting workshops and informational sessions to further educate families on the impact of attendance and to offer strategies for improving and maintaining regular school attendance.

We encourage you to join us in supporting this initiative by prioritizing school attendance and working together to ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive. Your support makes a significant difference in your child’s educational journey and future success.

Thank you for your commitment to making this school year a successful and enriching experience for all our students. Let’s make every school day count!