Otter Up!
August 3rd, 2026
Did You Know?
Starting in preschool and kindergarten, too many absences can cause children to fall behind in school.
Missing 10%, or about 2 days each month over the course of a school year, can make it harder to learn to read.
Students can still fall behind if they miss just one or two days every few weeks.
Being late to school may lead to poor attendance.
Absences and tardiness can affect the whole classroom if the teacher has to slow down learning to help children catch up.
Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school—and themselves. Start building this habit in preschool so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important. Eventually good attendance will be a skill that will help them succeed in high school and college.
What Can You Do?
Set a regular bedtime and morning routine.
Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.
Keep your child healthy and make sure your child has the required shots.
Develop backup plans for getting to school if something comes up.
Schedule non-urgent related medical appointments and extended trips when school isn’t in session.
If your child seems anxious about going to school, talk to teachers, school counselors and other parents for advice on how to make your child feel comfortable and excited about learning.
If your child must be absent from school, request an OCIS (Off Campus Independent Study) Contract through the school’s front office.
What Happens If My Child Is Absent Frequently?
After 12 missed days of school (excused or unexcused absences) you will begin receiving letters from the school notifying you that your child is now considered chronically absent. The school will be in contact with families (meetings to address attendance concerns, barriers and solutions, possible home visits, etc.)
If your child is attending school on an IDT, the IDT may be revoked.
At Shoal Creek Elementary, we are here to partner with families and support our students. If you need assistance regarding your child’s attendance, please contact our Principal, Harmeena Omoto at homoto@powayusd.com or call the front office at 858-613-9080.
