Message From Executive Director, Heather Dennis

The Impact of Poor Attendance on the Student and the School

As we have moved through the first semester of school, our excellent attendance rates from the beginning of the year have declined. Right now, approximately 15% of Anser's students meet the Federal criteria for being chronically absent. While we understand that students miss school for a myriad of reasons we encourage your to be mindful and when possible, plan ahead. Students that are chronically absent are unlikely to perform academically at grade level, often feel disconnected from school because they are missing time creating connections with peers and even have a reduced likelihood of graduating from high school.

Anser's Student Support Specialists have been reaching out to families whose children are chronically absent to understand the reasons for the absences and to provide suppport to get all of our students to school with regularity. If your child is avoiding school, we are here to partner with you to get them back on track. Here is a resource that may be helpful for parents.

The impact of chronic absenteeism is significant for the school as well. The school stands to lose over $100,00 based on reduced attendance. This means we have fewer resources to offer the unique opportunities your children receive at Anser. As a member of our Crew, we ask you to consider these impacts as you make plans for your family.

How can you help?

Reach out to our Student Support Specialists if your child is struggling with school avoidance.
Consider that allowing your student to stay home when they are not sick, may develop a pattern of avoidance and sends a message that school is not important.
Plan your family trips to align with Anser's breaks and long weekends.
Plan appointments for after school hours, and if not possible, try to get times after 2:30pm.

We want all of our Anser students to benefit from time in the classroom receiving instruction, bonding with peers and building those perseverance muscles the pandemic weakened. We want all of our students to grow to their full potential. Good attendance supports all of these goals while ensuring the school has the needed resources to support your child. Thank you!