Walnut Grove Staff, Families, and Community,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to emphasize the importance of attendance in our school and its impact on the success of our students.
Attendance is not only a requirement; it is the foundation upon which a student's educational and personal development is built. It plays a pivotal role in shaping their future, both academically and socially. Here are some compelling reasons why attendance is a top priority:
- Academic Success: Regular attendance is directly linked to academic achievement. Students who attend class consistently are more likely to grasp key concepts, engage in discussions, complete assignments, and perform well on assessments. This positive academic momentum can lead to higher grades and better educational outcomes.
- Personal Growth: Consistent attendance fosters discipline, responsibility, and time management skills, which are essential life skills. It also provides opportunities for students to develop relationships with peers, mentors, and teachers, helping them build a supportive network for the future.
- Preparation for the Real World: In the professional world, punctuality and attendance are highly valued traits. Developing these habits early in life equips students with skills that are transferable to their future careers.
As educators/mentors/leaders, it is our duty to stress the significance of attendance to our students and their families and create an environment that encourages their consistent presence. The Walnut Grove R-V School District also understands that families may have additional challenges which serve as barriers to getting their students to school. Please connect with your building principal or our school counselor to learn about what resources exist to help these barriers.
One great resource available to our Walnut Grove students and their families is our Walnut Grove Care to Learn chapter, which helps Walnut Grove students with emergent health, hunger, and hygiene needs. This can range from deodorant to a weekend backpack of food. If your family could benefit from any of these things, please contact your child's building principal. If your family needs help getting your students to and/or from school, please call our offices and request your child be dropped off or picked up.
In conclusion, one thing our district asks is that parents and students utilize our Mondays off to schedule meetings, appointments, and other activities that may interfere with the school day. Recognizing the importance of attendance and promoting a culture of punctuality and commitment, we can help our students thrive and achieve their fullest potential. You can find more information about student attendance policies in our school JH/HS Handbook, which is located on our school website under the ‘Parents’ tab.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Emily Woody
Walnut Grove R-V Schools
Junior High/ High School Principal