Partners for Public Education surveyed Pennsylvania educators and support professionals about what parents and guardians can do to reduce absenteeism and keep students in the classroom. Here are a few suggestions:
Schedule vacations outside of school days and doctors' appointments after school hours or on in-service days.
—Reading specialist, Unionville-Chadds Ford Education Association
Praise students when they do good things at school. Talk to them about the importance of being at school and keeping up with their schoolwork.
—High school science teacher, Northgate Education Association
Participate in at least one activity at school. Make a connection at the school with one staff person who is willing to mentor your child.
—High school special education teacher, West Chester Area Education Association
Limit time on video games, computers, and gaming devices like the Wii.
—Elementary paraprofessional, Danville Education Support Professionals Association
If a student is absent, make sure he/she gets make-up work and completes it.
—High school social studies teacher, Laurel Highlands Education Association
Keep your routine, proper sleep patterns, a good diet, and proper meal times.
—Elementary classroom aide, Tussey Mountain Education Support Professionals Association
Have regular doctors' visits for your child.
-High school paraprofessional, Connellsville Education Support Professionals Association
