Principal Chat – 2019/2020 School Year – Episode 1
Rory Moore, Principal at Alberta Rider Elementary, participates in a series of chats with the PSO. Today’s blog features his thoughts on the importance of students attending school regularly and how families can support this effort.
As we start the 2019-20 school year we want to remind all our families about the value and importance of regular and timely school attendance. Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school—and themselves. You can support your child by helping them understand how important school is right now, regardless of age. Consistent attendance helps children do well in high school, college, and at work.
DID YOU KNOW?
- Starting in kindergarten, too many absences (excused and unexcused) can cause children to fall behind in school.
- Missing 10 percent (or about 18 days) increases the chance that your child will not read or master math at the same level as their peers.
- By 6th grade, absenteeism is one of three signs that a student may drop out of high school.
- By being at school, your child learns valuable social skills and has the opportunity to develop meaningful relationships with other students and school staff.
- By 9th grade, regular and high attendance is a better predictor of graduation rates than 8th grade test scores.
WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU
We miss your child when they’re gone and value their contributions. If your child is going to be absent, please contact Mrs. Loftin at 503–431–4000.
OUR PROMISE TO YOU
We know there are many reasons why students are absent from school. Our staff at Rider is prepared to help if you face challenges getting your child to school regularly or on time. Please contact our office or our counselor, Kristin Clark, at any time if you need support. You can reach her at (503) 431-4909 or kclark1@ttsd.k12.or.us
SCHOOL POLICIES AND STATE LAWS
It is important that you understand our school policies and procedures, as well as Oregon State Law. State law for mandatory attendance, calls for children ages 7-18 to attend a public school, private school, or a district-approved home school program. If a child under the age of 7 is enrolled in public school their attendance is also mandatory.
A student/parent is in violation of state law when they have 8 unexcused absences in any four week period the school is in session and when excused absences exceed 5 days in a 3 month period and/or exceed 10 days in a 6 month period. If a student is sick or has an illness that prevents them from coming to school, we will of course honor their needs, but a note from a doctor is required.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Set a regular bed time and morning routine for your child.
- Help your child prepare for school the night before by making sure they have finished their homework and get a good night’s sleep.
- Don’t let your child stay home unless they are truly sick. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
- Avoid appointments and extended trips when school is in session.
- Talk to your child about the importance of attendance.
- Encourage meaningful after school activities, including sports, clubs and volunteering to support our community.
We want Alberta Rider to be a safe and positive place for everyone. We want our students here so we can maximize their potential and help them build for the future. Please reach out to us if you feel like there’s anything we can do to support you.
Sincerely,
Rory Moore
Principal
(503) 431-4908
rmoore@ttsd.k12.or.us
Alberta Rider Elementary School