February Attendance Newsletter

This Valentine’s season, we’re celebrating all the ways our school community shows the love—especially by showing up each day! When students come to school, they’re not just learning; they’re supporting their classmates, building friendships, and investing in themselves. Every day of attendance is a way to say, “I care about my learning and my community.” Thank you to our families and students for making being present a priority. Your commitment helps our school thrive, one loving act at a time!

Only 15 days this month — let’s strive for 100% attendance

• February 2nd - 6th - School Counselor Week
• February 16th - President's Day - No School
• February 23rd - 27th - National Public Schools Week
• February 25th - 100th day of School for SJHS

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)
  • 4 chronically absent students (out of 86 total students) = 4.7% (currently down by 3.94% from last year)
• Sophomores (Class of 2028)
  • 5 chronically absent students (out of 83 total students) = 6% (currently down by 8.51% from last year)
• Juniors (Class of 2027)
  • 1 chronically absent students (out of 58 total students) = 1.7% (currently down by 9.11% from last year)
• Seniors (Class of 2026)
  • 2 chronically absent students (out of 65 total students) = 3.7% (currently down by 7.01% from last year)
• Total: 12 chronically absent students (out of 291 total students) = 4.1% (currently down by 6.89% from last year)

As we move through February, this month gives us several powerful reminders of why daily attendance matters—historically, academically, and personally.

Black History Month Reflections: Education as a Legacy

Throughout history, access to education has been something many had to fight for. During Black History Month, we honor the individuals and communities who challenged inequality so future generations could learn, grow, and succeed. Attending school each day is one way students honor that legacy. Every class attended represents an opportunity that others worked tirelessly to secure. Showing up means valuing education and continuing the progress made toward equity and opportunity for all.

Don’t Be a Groundhog

Groundhog Day reminds us that winter may linger—but that doesn’t mean students should disappear for six more weeks! Don’t hide from learning or stay burrowed at home. Come out, participate, and shine in the classroom. Every day counts, and each lesson builds on the last. Your presence makes a difference—to your teachers, your classmates, and yourself.

Beat the Winter Blues

February can be tough—short days, cold weather, and seasonal illnesses often lead to a mid-winter slump. But staying engaged and active at school helps students maintain routines, stay connected, and keep momentum strong. Even on cold mornings, getting to school supports academic success and mental well-being. Remember: consistency now sets the tone for a strong finish to the school year.

Healthy Habits Corner

Staying healthy is key to staying present during peak flu season. Here are a few simple habits that make a big impact:

• Prioritize sleep: Aim for a consistent bedtime and 8–10 hours of sleep to support focus and immunity.

• Wash hands often: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using shared spaces.

• Fuel your body: Eat balanced meals and stay hydrated to keep energy levels up.

• Stay home when truly sick: Rest helps recovery—but return as soon as you’re able to rejoin learning.

Let’s work together to make February a month of resilience, reflection, and responsibility. Showing up every day is more than attendance—it’s a commitment to growth, health, and honoring the past while building the future.

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