Attendance Officer | L. W. Young Junior

MEET OUR ATTENDANCE OFFICER

DANIEL SMALL

WARNING SIGNS THAT SOMETHING MAY BE WRONG WITH YOUR CHILDREN:

They may have an illness every week.
They may frequently tell you that there is no school.
They may tell you they are not doing anything at school.
They may have an excuse on the same day every week, or simply always have an excuse.
They may have no up-to-date work in their books or have other students' bags/books.
They may be unable to produce any books or school bag.
They may be late leaving home.
They may always be tired or sleepy.
They may take frequent visits to administration.
They may come home at 3 p.m. (early) every day.
They may never be prepared for school.
They may be frequently late returning from school.

If you notice one or more of these signs, do not hesitate to speak with your children and visit their school.
You may want to speak to their teachers, guidance counselor, or attendance officer. You will want them to inform you about their recent attendance and punctuality at school, behavior, grades, as well as their interaction with other students.
Do not be shy about keeping in touch with your children's school regularly.
The more visible you are, and the more contact that you have with school personnel, the less likely children will feel they can get away with any unacceptable behavior and or performance at school.

Visit the school in person. Speak to an administrator, counselor, attendance officer or teacher. Do not speak to other students.
Call only after visiting yourself or if it is impossible to visit. It is okay to call frequently if you have a problem. This shows interest, and a willingness to make an effort to improve the situation. Call the guidance department. Ask for assistance.
Check their school bags without letting them know. Look for up-to-date work; weapons or anything that might be used as a weapon (should you find a suspicious item, you should remove it immediately and discuss with the child); names and telephone numbers (especially of persons you don't know or who seem suspicious); gang or violent symbols and drawings or letters, pornographic images and any other negative writings.
Let them know that there are consequences for not attending school, and follow through. Do not reward negative behavior.
Always check their excuses.
Use a team approach -- ask family, friends, neighbors, or others if they see your children out of school (or anything out of the ordinary).
Talk to your children. Show love, not weakness and be firm.
Seek help if necessary -- counseling, parenting classes, etc.
Attend PTA meetings.
Don't give up.