Dear Parents/Families:
Attendance is crucial for student success from kindergarten to high school. Missing school impacts academic and social achievements.
● Significance: Missing 10% or more can harm academic success. In 6th grade, absenteeism signals a higher risk of dropout. By 9th grade, regular attendance is a strong predictor of graduation.
● Maryland Focus: The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) set a 10% absenteeism threshold for intervention, starting 2023-2024.
● Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) aims for 94-96% attendance for all students.
HCPSS Attendance Interventions:
1. 5% Absence: Care and Concern Call or letter sent to parents/guardians to improve attendance.
2. 10% Absence: Attendance conference may be arranged. Additional supports deployed.
3. 15% Absence: Attendance support plan may be required.
4. 20% Absence: Attendance Commitment Agreement may be required. Potential referral to the Central Attendance Team or State’s Attorney’s Letter may be sent.
For additional information regarding attendance expectations, lawful absences, and attendance procedures, please review HCPSS Policy 9010.
With parents, staff, and students working together, we can improve attendance and student success. We look forward to partnering with you.