Good morning! 
School districts nationwide have been grappling with chronic student absenteeism in recent years. The Covid pandemic has intensified school absences, establishing a new norm for attendance. Chronic absenteeism is characterized by missing two or more days of school per month, which can accumulate to at least 18-20 days annually. This equates to an entire month of lost instructional time!  The pandemic has led to a perception of school attendance as somewhat "optional" for some.  Liberty County is no exception to this mindset.

Consider these statistics regarding chronic absenteeism:
* In the US, over seven million students, which is 16% of the student body, missed 15 or more days of school.
* Several school districts have reported more than 30% of their students missed at least three weeks of school.
* The highest rates of chronic absenteeism are found in high schools, where approximately 20% of students are chronically absent.
* 14% of all public school students in the United States are chronically absent, missing 15 or more days annually.
* There is a correlation between chronic absenteeism and negative outcomes such as poor academic performance, low school engagement, and increased dropout rates.

"EVERY DAY COUNTS" is our continued initiative designed to motivate parents to ensure their children attend school daily. While illness and unforeseen events are understandable, it's crucial to prepare your children for school each day. Here are some tips to support this goal:

1. SLEEP - Establish a regular bedtime that provides 8 hours of sleep. Children continue to grow and develop until the age of 21 and require adequate rest. Enough sleep contributes to a productive learning day at school.
2. DEVICES - It's common for children to use devices late into the night. Set bedtime rules for device usage.
3. PLANNING - Prepare for school the previous evening. A simple act like setting out clothes can make mornings more efficient.
4. ROUTINE - Humans are habitual beings. A steady morning routine of waking up, having breakfast (which is always free at school), and dressing can start the day smoothly. Involve your children in creating a fun morning schedule and ensure they stick to it.
5. TRANSPORTATION - Liberty County Schools provides bus transportation for all students. Ensure they're ready for the bus each day. If you drive your child, leave at a consistent time as part of your routine.

Let's make a concerted effort in Liberty County for students to ATTEND SCHOOL DAILY throughout the 25-26 school year!

Remember, in terms of your child's education, EVERY DAY COUNTS!

School Starts back in Liberty County on August 12th.

Go Panthers and Go Dawgs!

Sincerely,
Kyle Peddie
Liberty County Superintendent of Schools