MADERA, Calif. (KFSN) — In the bustling classrooms of Cesar Chavez Elementary School, learning is in full swing. As Thanksgiving fades and Christmas approaches, a notable trend emerges. Some students are likely to be absent from class quite soon. “A significant number of families plan to go out of town during this holiday season, spending quality time with their loved ones on vacation. This leads to a decline in student attendance,” explained Attendance Specialist Analicia Sanchez.Impact of Student Absence
It is crucial for parents to understand the profound impact of their child missing class. Every day a student is absent means they are forfeiting seven hours of valuable instruction. For instance, if a student is absent for 10 days, they are losing an astonishing 70 hours of instruction that cannot be simply made up. This loss can have a cumulative effect on a student's learning progress.Impact on Different Grade Levels
Attendance supervisor Rachel Donatelli highlights how absence affects students differently across grade levels. Younger students, such as those in the early grades, may miss out on the fundamental building blocks like learning their ABCs and 1,2,3s. On the other hand, high school students face major implications when it comes to finals, semesters, grades, and even graduation. “If you are planning to be away, it is essential to communicate with your counselor and vice principal,” Donatelli emphasized.School's Approach to Absences
The district recognizes the importance of addressing absences and has a proactive approach. When parents involve the school, it provides students with the opportunity for independent study. The school can gather work that students can complete while they are away and develop a plan to ensure they stay on track. This collaborative effort between parents and the school helps minimize the negative impact of absences.Parents' Role in Student Success
Sanchez firmly believes that parents play a vital role in supporting their child's success. When a student is punctual and attends class every day, they have a better chance of learning, staying on track, and achieving academic excellence. “Regular attendance is the foundation upon which a student's educational journey is built,” Sanchez stated.The holidays are rapidly approaching, and officials remind families that if they plan to leave early, it is advisable to make these arrangements with the school as soon as possible. By doing so, they can ensure a smooth transition and minimize the disruption to their child's education.For news updates, follow Jessica Harrington on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.Copyright © 2024 KFSN-TV. All Rights Reserved.
