The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System has announced the launch of its Attendance Matters! Campaign in an effort to prioritize education and empower students for success. The campaign was launched at a press event on Friday, March 22, 2024, with Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, School Board members, district staff, and community partners in attendance.
The initiative aims to address the critical issue of chronic absenteeism by raising awareness, engaging stakeholders, and implementing strategies to ensure every student attends school regularly. Following the press event, Board of Education Police Officers, district social workers, and SCCPSS Superintendent Dr. Denise Watts headed out to knock on doors, offer support, and encourage parents of chronically absent students to ensure they make it to school each day.
Chronic absenteeism poses a significant barrier to academic achievement and personal growth for students across Chatham County. According to recent statistics, absenteeism not only hampers academic progress but also increases the likelihood of students dropping out of school, thus limiting their future opportunities. Last year 52% of SCCPSS students missed 10% or more of school days. When students are not in school, they miss out on vital instruction, as well as socialization, nutrition, and emotional well-being support.
"Our goal with this campaign is to underscore the importance of regular school attendance in fostering academic excellence and laying a strong foundation for students' future success," said Dr. Quentina Miller-Fields, Director of the SCCPSS Student and Family Service Center. "We believe that every day a student misses school is a missed opportunity for learning and personal development."
The campaign will leverage a multifaceted approach to combat chronic absenteeism, including:
- Community Outreach: Engaging with parents, guardians, educators, and community members to raise awareness about the impact of chronic absenteeism and the importance of regular school attendance.
- Student Support Services: Providing resources and support services to address the underlying issues contributing to chronic absenteeism, such as family dynamics, mental health challenges, or socioeconomic barriers.
- Innovative Solutions: Collaborating with schools to implement innovative strategies, such as mentorship programs, attendance incentives, and technology-driven interventions, to encourage and track student attendance.
The Attendance Matters! campaign invites stakeholders from all sectors to join hands in combating chronic absenteeism and creating a culture of attendance and accountability within our schools and communities. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our students and pave the way for a brighter future.
See more photos from the event here.