Your child cannot maximize learning if he or she is not present for instruction.   Student achievement and success are tied to quality, consistent instruction.   If a student is not present, he or she misses the opportunity to engage in instruction.

Whenever your child is absent from school, documentation is required to verify the reason for the absence.   Parents/Guardians are required to notify the school as to the reason for the absence.  This may be done through the phone-in line, or on line. 

Any absence not confirmed by the parent/guardian is considered unexcused.  

Upon the child's return to school, a written explanation from the parent/guardian is required.   The note should include:  The date(s) of absence, reason for the absence and signature of the parent/guardian.  

Repeated or habitual tardiness encourages the formation of undesirable personal habits and disrupts the orderly instructional process of the school.     Documentation is also required for tardiness. 

Keeping your child home when they are not ill sends a message that school is not important.   Talk to your child's counselor if your child does not want to go to school

Research indicates that involving parents as educators at home with their children is one of the most effective ways to improve students' achievement and attitudes toward school.

As a parent, you can help with homework.   Create a homework area that is quiet, well lit, organized, clean, close to an adult who can answer questions and stocked with supplies (paper, pens, pencils, books, dictionary, etc.).

Establish a routine.  Have your child study in the same place, decide the best time for homework, schedule breaks to stretch or get a snack.  Consider your child's schedule.  Do they need a break after school before beginning homework?   Help your child make their after school schedule:  plan extracurricular activities, free time, homework, study break, dinner and bedtime.

Be Positive.  Give praise when homework is completed, encourage your child to take pride in his or her accomplishments and be supportive of good efforts.

Be Available.   Help your child to keep track of assignments, be around to answer questions, be patient.    Try doing a problem or two together, then watch as your child tries the next one.  Avoid simply giving the answer.   Ask questions that let your child see the problem in smaller, sequential steps.

If your child is having trouble with homework, contact his or her teacher and let them know your concerns.   You may also contact their counselor.  In addition, you may try a study group, a tutor, another adult or the Internet.