SCHOOLS HAVE MOST IMPROVED ATTENDANCE FOR MARCH
As part of their ongoing student attendance campaign, “Every Day Counts,” Woodland Joint Unified School District announced the four winning schools with the most improved student attendance for the month of March earlier this week.
The district launched the campaign in January 2023 to improve student attendance districtwide. The district recognizes the top four schools with the most improved attendance each month.
Each winning school receives an “Every Day Counts” banner, which they showcase at
their school to highlight their achievement.
According to a district press release, the top four schools in order of most improved attendance are the three area high schools in Woodland High School, Pioneer High School and Cache Creek High School, along with Spring Lake Elementary School.
Pioneer High School made the list for the month of February and is the first school to earn the banner twice in a row.
“I am excited we continue to make improvements in attendance,” stated Pioneer High School Principal Sandra Reese. “There are a lot of hard-working staff who have tried really hard to work with families who are
struggling with some of the barriers that exist in getting their kids to school.”
Last month the four winning schools were Prairie Elementary School, Pioneer, Douglass Middle School, and Science and Technology (Sci-Tech) Academy.
“I am very excited for the community of Woodland High School to receive the banner this month,” stated Woodland High School Principal Gerald Salcido. “We will work on continuous improvement so we can keep the banner at WHS for another month.”
Research shows that missing just two days a month of school can impact a student’s academic success while coming to school
each day improves academics, boosts self-esteem, and increases opportunities for college and a career.
While “Every Day Counts” is a districtwide campaign, each school used an individual strategy for improving attendance at their school.
“I was so very excited to learn that Spring Lake had won the attendance improvement competition this month,” stated Spring Lake Elementary School Principal Stacey Falconer. “We have been monitoring attendance rates diligently with staff and families since December and it was encouraging to see improvement.
“Our families are very sup
portive and I think improving communication about attendance goals, how attendance rates are calculated, and working with specific populations of students and their families who are at higher risk of missing school has been our key to success.”
Cache Creek identified a cohort of students to participate in the campaign and focused on improving their attendance.
“I was elated and our team deserves the recognition for their deliberate efforts towards prioritizing attendance,” stated Cache Creek High School Principal Will Jarrell. “Maintaining high attendance has always been our primary objective, as students who attend at least 90% of the time are highly likely to graduate, which is ultimately what we strive for.
“It’s evident that the connections our teachers establish with their students cultivate trust and this helps students appreciate the importance of their school experience,” Jarrell continued “Our focus on making these connections with students continues to be a major factor in student success.”
Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin congratulated schools and encouraged continued daily attendance.
“Congratulations to every school, student, and family doing their part to improve student attendance districtwide,” stated Superintendent Elodia Ortega-Lampkin. “When it comes to student achievement and improved student performance, every day counts. So keep up the great work because your daily commitment is making a huge difference.”