Superintendent's Update
RCSD's Strategic Work: September 2025-26
From the Desk of Superintendent Dr. John Baker:
Dear RCSD Community,
We are now a little over a month into the new school year, and I could not be more proud of the energy and excitement filling our classrooms. Our schools are already living out what we strive for as a district—safe and supportive spaces where learning is rigorous, joyful, and inclusive. As I visit our schools, I see students settling into routines, building friendships, and diving into their studies with enthusiasm.
September is Attendance Awareness Month, which is why I want to take this opportunity to write about one of the most important building blocks of student success: showing up to school every day, on time. Right now, about 80% of our students are attending school daily and arriving ready to learn—a strong start that we want to celebrate.
However, we also face a challenge. Already, 10% of our students are considered chronically absent this early in the year. Chronic absenteeism means missing 10% or more of school days, and it adds up quickly—even when the absences are excused. Doctor’s appointments, family celebrations, and vacations all matter, but if they happen during the school day, they still count toward a student being chronically absent and thus lost instructional time. Please schedule these events outside of school hours so children don’t miss valuable learning.
We are especially concerned about our youngest learners in Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten as well as our 8th graders, who currently have the highest rates of absenteeism:
TK and Kindergarten:
Attending every day builds strong foundations in reading, mathematics, problem-solving, and language development. It also teaches social-emotional skills such as sharing, taking turns, and teamwork. Missing too many days at this stage makes it harder to read at grade level by 3rd grade, which research shows is a key predictor of future success.
8th Grade:
Daily attendance prepares students for the pace and rigor of high school. Missing school now makes it harder to keep up in core subjects later. Just as important, showing up every day helps 8th graders build habits of responsibility and confidence that will carry them into high school, college, and career.
Attendance is more than a number—it shapes confidence, friendships, language growth, and a sense of belonging. It creates the habits and skills that lead to lifelong success. Together, let’s help our students attend and achieve—because every day truly counts.
With gratitude and enthusiasm for 2025-26,
John Baker
Superintendent