RAYMONDVILLE — Attendance really matters to the success of children in the formative times of their lives.
The students at the Raymondville Independent School District understand that very well, and that’s why more of the students are filling the classrooms these days.
The attendance rates across the district have risen from 90% last year to 95% in the first six weeks of this school year, said Benjamin Clinton, deputy superintendent of the district. Clinton credited the district’s “Attendance Matters” campaign, an initiative designed to emphasize the importance of daily attendance, for bringing more students to class.
The initiative included removing barriers that may keep students from attending school, such as lack of transportation and adequate clothing.
“Our work starts with listening to families,” Clinton said. “We know that when students miss school, it’s often due to challenges beyond their control. By partnering with families to meet these basic needs, we’ve been able to reduce those obstacles and ensure students have the resources to get to school and feel ready to learn.”
The district, in its effort to achieve greater attendance, recognized the need to address more than just attendance reminders, Clinton said.
“The districts has worked closely with families, providing support to meet basic needs that impact school attendance, such as clothing and transportation,” he said. “By working directly with parents and caregivers, RISD has built a support network that empowers families to prioritize their children’s education.”
The district extended this initiative even further by offering after-school programs filled with engaging activities to support learning and provide a safe space for students until as late as 6:30 p.m.
Empty stomachs can slow children down and make them irritable and unable to concentrate. So the district is also providing breakfast, lunch and dinner to encourage greater attendance and improve performance.
Clinton pointed out that the positive response from students shows that the campaign is working.
“Our classrooms are vibrant, and our teachers have created learning experiences that spark curiosity and excitement,” he said. “Students want to be here—they’re engaged, supported, and they know that our district cares about their well-being,”
Through this holistic approach, RISD’s “Attendance Matters” campaign is fostering a positive environment where students can thrive, Clinton said. By addressing both practical needs and creating a stimulating academic environment, Clinton added, Raymondville ISD has not only improved attendance but is also helping students build a foundation for long-term success.
The district, he concluded, is committed to sustaining this progress.
myRGV.com Article: Raymondville school district improves classroom attendance By Travis M. Whitehead -November 8, 2024
Find it at: https://myrgv.com/local-news/2024/11/08/raymondville-school-district-improves-classroom-attendance/
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