In the wake of a global pandemic, youth and educators are facing unprecedented challenges. Chronic absenteeism – missing more than 10% of school days – has more than doubled in communities across the country, disrupting the classrooms and impacting students’ academic progress, social development, and overall well-being. Every September, city leaders can make a difference by recognizing Attendance Awareness Month to highlight why attendance is important and the positive impact it has on academics and overall student success.
Cities are addressing various attendance challenges in numerous ways; NLC has partnered with Attendance Works on a new resource outlining ways that cities can support improved attendance. One strategy is to issue a proclamation for Attendance Awareness Month; mayoral proclamations can serve as a rallying point for communities, focusing collective efforts on ensuring that every student has the chance to thrive through consistent school day attendance. Cities often elevate these proclamations through press releases and community or school events.
By working in collaboration with school districts to address attendance barriers, city leaders have the opportunity to make an impact in meaningful ways, including:
- Building Strong Communities. The education of today’s youth requires a collective effort involving families, schools, communities, and city leaders. By supporting regular school day attendance, city leaders demonstrate their commitment to supporting students and families, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility for the education of all youth.
- Fostering Lifelong Learning Habits. Regular attendance lays the foundation for a lifelong commitment to learning. When students attend school consistently, they develop routines and habits that carry forward into adulthood, equipping them with the tools needed to pursue higher education and career opportunities.
- Improving Academic Achievement. Missing school days can lead to gaps in learning, making it harder for students to keep up with the curriculum. By convening partners in addressing barriers to regular attendance, city leaders can encourage parents, guardians, and students to prioritize attendance, ultimately contributing to improved academic performance.
- Preparing Future Leaders. The students of today are the leaders of tomorrow. Regular engagement in school equips youth with the knowledge, critical thinking skills, and diverse perspectives needed to make informed decisions and drive positive change in their communities and beyond.
This Attendance Awareness Month, join the following cities in issuing a mayoral proclamation to draw attention to and galvanize the community in tackling this significant issue:
- Avondale, AZ
- Buckeye, AZ
- Goodyear, AZ
- Harrisonburg, VA
- Millcreek, UT
- Philadelphia, PA
- Phoenix, AZ
- Tolleson, AZ
Issue a Mayoral Proclamation
Join cities, towns, and villages across America in recognizing Attendance Awareness Month with a mayoral proclamation. Download the proclamation template and support students in your community.
By issuing a proclamation for Attendance Awareness Month this September, city leaders take a stand for education, support families and foster a culture of learning that will have a lasting impact on the community. For assistance with issuing a proclamation or for more information about student reengagement, including resources and city case studies, visit NLC’s Student Reengagement initiative page or email educationexpandedlearning@nlc.org.
About the Author
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