May Attendance Newsletter

As we head into the final stretch of the school year, it’s easy to catch "senioritis" or start dreaming of summer break. However, May is one of the most critical months for finishing the semester on a high note. Between final exams & projects, and year-end celebrations, every day in the classroom counts. Let’s keep the momentum going and ensure our students are here to cross the finish line with confidence! Staying consistent with morning routines—even as the weather gets nicer—is the best way to avoid the "end-of-year slump." Let’s make these final weeks count!

Success starts with showing up.

Only 12 days this month — let’s strive for 100% attendance

• May 1st - National School Principal's Day
• May 4th - Star Wars Day/Mr. SJHS @ 7:00PM
• May 4th - Teacher Appreciation Day
• May 4-8th - Teacher Appreciation Week
• May 4-8th - National Physical Education Week
• Mat 6th - National School Nurses Day
• May 10th - Mother's Day
• May 17th - SJHS Baccalaureate @ 7:00 PM
• May 19th - SJHS Academic Awards Night @ 7:00 PM
• May 19-20th - Finals - 19th (Odd Classes) 20th (Even Classes)
• May 21st - Last day of School! End of Quarter 4/Semester 2 - Student Checkout
• May 22nd - Graduation @ 7:00 PM
• May 25th - Memorial Day Campus Closed

Decreasing chronic absenteeism from 10.99% to 7.99%

So far we have been well below our year end goal for this school year. Let's keep it up until the end!

• Freshmen (Class of 2029)
  • 1 chronically absent students (out of 84 total students) = 1.19% (currently down by 7.45% from last year)
• Sophomores (Class of 2028)
  • 2 chronically absent students (out of 78 total students) = 2.56% (currently down by 11.95% from last year)
• Juniors (Class of 2027)
  • 2 chronically absent students (out of 57 total students) = 3.51% (currently down by 7.20% from last year)
• Seniors (Class of 2026)
  • 0 chronically absent students (out of 63 total students) = 0% (currently down by 10.71% from last year)
• Total: 5 chronically absent students (out of 282 total students) = 1.77% (currently down by 9.22% from last year)

As the sun comes out and the school year winds down, it is easy to shift into "vacation mode." However, May is one of the most critical times for students to stay connected. Let’s finish this year strong and keep the momentum going until the final bell!

May the Attendance Be With You!

In honor of Star Wars Day (May 4th), we’re reminding our students that they are the "chosen ones" when it comes to their education. Consistency is the "Force" that leads to success. Whether it's prepping for final projects or celebrating with friends, being here matters.

Did You Know?

• The Social Spark: Students with good attendance records report feeling more connected to their peers and less likely to feel isolated during the summer break.

• Academic Bridge: Being present in May helps students retain up to 25% more information heading into the next grade level, preventing the "summer slide."

• Milestone Magic: Most end-of-year celebrations and awards are based on participation—don't let your student miss their moment in the spotlight!

Health Check: When to Stay Home?

We know allergy season is in full swing! To keep learning on track, please follow these simple guidelines:

• Stay Home If: Your child has a high fever, is vomiting, or has severe, contagious symptoms.

• Show Up If: They have minor sniffles, a light cough, or seasonal allergies. We have tissues and water fountains ready!

Why Showing Up Matters

School is more than just textbooks; it is a community. Regular attendance supports:

1. Social-Emotional Health: Daily interactions help kids navigate friendships and build confidence.

2. Resource Access: Students get consistent access to school counselors, nutritious meals, and extracurricular activities.

3. Routine: Keeping a steady schedule in May reduces anxiety and makes the eventual transition to summer much smoother.

"Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out." Let's make these final weeks count!

If your student is avoiding school for any reason, we have access to therapeutic counseling resources that focus on this specific need. Contact the attendance secretary, a school administrator, or a school counselor to get a referral to work with a licensed therapist.

• Please call in if your child will be missing school for the entire day or for just one class period.
• Bring in doctor’s notes if the absence was for a medical appointment. This will help us in marking students with the correct attendance code.
• School starts at 7:45 a.m. and lunch is over at 12:35 p.m. Students need to be here before those times to not be marked tardy.

Attendance Questions: Contact Bianca Diaz 928-337-2221 - bianca.diaz@staff.sjusd.net