The Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) has announced the launching of a new statewide campaign known as “You Belong. Attendance Matters,” to raise awareness about the importance of regular school attendance.
KDE defines a student as chronically absent if they miss 10 percent or more of their time in school. This includes both excused and unexcused absences. That is the equivalent of two days per month and affects nearly 30 percent of all students. They note, however, that his differs from truancy, which counts only unexcused absences and tardies. When students miss school, they miss out on learning, friendships, and so many other opportunities.
The department‘s public messaging campaign includes a commercial and ads strategically placed on streaming services, websites, public transportation services, event venues and billboards across the state. The ads feature messaging about how when a student misses school, they miss more than lessons, they miss connection with their school community and building their future.
“We want all students to feel that school is a welcoming and supportive place for them where they can learn and grow,” said Kentucky Commissioner of Education Robbie Fletcher. “Kentucky’s public school educators help students learn the skills they will need to find success in their life. That’s why KDE is All In for keeping Kentucky’s kids in the classroom and on their path to success.”
KDE also provides resources on the Attendance Matters chronic absenteeism webpage for families, community members and educators. Guidelines on when to keep your child home due to an illness, steps communities can take and other information to help promote attendance in schools are just a few of the many helpful resources available on the webpage.
By Tom Latek, Kentucky Today
