Attendance Matters

• Ceres Courier article
• Turlock Journal August 25, 2023

Every Day Counts: Stanislaus County Embraces School Attendance By Judy Boring, Director II, Communications, Stanislaus County Office of Education

You have heard at one time or another that education is the cornerstone of a thriving society. It equips individuals to unlock their full potential, allowing them to contribute positively to their communities. By attending school every day, students gain essential skills, create opportunities for their future, and their school communities. One crucial factor significantly impacts a student's academic success: their daily attendance.
When schools resumed in-person learning during COVID, it was a challenge for parents and school staff to fully implement curriculum to meet students full learning potential in the school setting with the mandated health requirements. Fast forward to the current year of 2023-24, with schools welcoming students everyday by providing extra support and resources. General health rules now are to only stay home if experiencing fever or diarrhea.
The Stanislaus County Office of Education (SCOE), and all 25 school districts, have embarked on a county-wide campaign, "Every Day Counts - Attendance Matters," emphasizing the importance of attending school daily.
Regular attendance is not just about meeting the required number of days at school; it plays a pivotal role in a student's overall development and academic success. When students attend school every day, they have a better chance to engage with the curriculum, participate in discussions, and collaborate with peers. This continuous exposure to the learning environment fosters a deeper understanding of subjects and enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Moreover, consistent school attendance builds a solid foundation for time management and discipline. These essential life skills extend beyond the classroom and are vital for personal growth and future success in the professional world. Students with good attendance develop a stronger sense of responsibility and commitment.
One of the most significant impacts of daily attendance is evident in a student's academic performance. Numerous studies have shown a strong correlation between regular school attendance and higher grades. When student miss school, they miss out on valuable instruction and often struggle to catch up, leading to gaps in their knowledge and understanding.
The "Every Day Counts - Attendance Matters" campaign is not just about individual students; it has a broader impact on entire school communities. When attendance rates improve, schools can better allocate resources, invest in facilities, and provide more robust support services for students. A positive and vibrant school environment, driven by engaged students, motivated teachers, and involved parents, fosters a culture of learning and achievement.
Additionally, high attendance rates enable teachers to implement effective teaching strategies and offer personalized attention to students, catering to their unique learning styles and needs rather than trying to help student catchup on missed assignments when absent. This also creates a conducive learning atmosphere that inspires curiosity and creativity among students.
To further drive the significance of daily attendance and reward students for their commitment, Modesto Toyota has once again partnered with SCOE by providing an exciting opportunity for a high school student with perfect attendance each month to win a new 2024 Toyota Corolla. To accompany the outstanding donation of Modesto Toyota, TSM Insurance is donating one year of car insurance and Vintage Car Wash is providing a year of free car washes to the winner. A student's name is entered into a drawing each month they have perfect attendance. And, in May, one name will be drawn. this incentive encourages and motivates high school students to prioritize consistent school attendance.

SCOE is asking local businesses to sponsor prizes for elementary and middle school students for distribution to students with perfect attendance. Contact SCOE’s Administrative Services at 209-238-1709 for more details.
By partnering with local businesses like Modesto Toyota, the community's commitment to education is reinforced for students in Stanislaus County. These partnerships  highlight the importance of attending school every day and highlight the community's collective effort to invest in its youth and their future.
As student, parents, educators, and the community rally together to prioritize attendance, we build a more robust and brighter future for Stanislaus County, where every student can thrive and reach their full potential. Remember, every day counts and every day matters in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.