Attendance
Attendance Matters
Regular school attendance is one of the most important factors in a student's academic success. Every school day provides valuable opportunities for learning, building relationships, and developing the skills needed for future success. Stanly County Schools encourages families to make daily attendance a priority and to partner with schools in supporting student success.
In accordance with Stanly County Board Policy 4400 – Attendance, students are expected to attend school regularly and arrive on time each day. Consistent attendance helps students stay engaged in instruction, maintain academic progress, and develop positive habits that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Why Attendance Matters
Even a few missed days can have a significant impact on student learning. Missing an average of just two days of school per month can make it more difficult for students to keep pace with classroom instruction, regardless of whether the absences are excused or unexcused.
Research shows that students who attend school consistently are more likely to:
- Achieve higher academic performance.
- Read proficiently by the end of third grade.
- Build meaningful relationships with teachers and classmates.
- Develop positive attendance and work habits.
- Graduate from high school prepared for college, careers, or military service.
For younger students, regular attendance is especially critical. Early elementary years establish the foundation for reading, mathematics, and social-emotional development. Students who miss frequent instructional time are more likely to struggle academically as they progress through school.
Parents and Guardians Make the Difference
Families play an essential role in promoting good attendance. Parents and guardians can support their child's success by:
- Scheduling appointments outside of school hours whenever possible.
- Establishing consistent morning and bedtime routines.
- Communicating with the school when absences are unavoidable.
- Seeking support if health, transportation, or other challenges are affecting attendance.
- Encouraging students to attend school every day unless they are ill or there is another valid reason for absence.
Stanly County Schools is committed to working with families to address barriers to attendance. If your child is experiencing challenges that make it difficult to attend school regularly, please contact your school's administration, counselor, school social worker, or attendance team. Together, we can identify resources and develop a plan to support your child's success.
Attendance Policy
Stanly County Schools follows Board Policy 4400 – Attendance, which outlines student attendance expectations, lawful absences, attendance documentation, and procedures for addressing excessive absences. Families are encouraged to review the policy and contact their child's school with any questions regarding attendance requirements.
Every Day Counts. Every Student Matters. By working together, families and schools can ensure students are present, engaged, and ready to learn every day.