The Importance of School Attendance

At Tarrant City Schools, we believe that every day counts! Regular school attendance is vital for your child’s academic success and future opportunities. Research shows that students who are chronically absent, meaning they miss 10% or more of the school year (about 18 days), are more likely to fall behind in reading, math, and other critical skills. This can lead to challenges in middle and high school, and even affect their chances of graduating on time and pursuing college or career paths.

Did you know?

• Missing just two days a month can add up to chronic absenteeism.
• Students who are chronically absent in early grades are less likely to read on grade level by third grade.
• By high school, chronic absenteeism increases the risk of dropping out.

At Tarrant City Schools, we strive to monitor and improve student attendance by assisting families with any challenges or barriers they may face. Our dedicated Attendance Coaches— Dr. Scott at Tarrant Intermediate School (TIS), and Mr. McFarland at Tarrant High School (THS)—are here to help. They work closely with students and families to ensure that every student has the support they need to attend school regularly.

Tips for Avoiding Chronic Absenteeism:

1. Set a Regular Routine: Establish a consistent bedtime and morning schedule to ensure your child gets enough sleep and is ready for school each day.
2. Prepare the Night Before: Help your child get organized by laying out clothes, packing backpacks, and prepping lunches the night before.
3. Stay Healthy: Encourage good hygiene and ensure your child eats a nutritious breakfast to avoid illness.
4. Communicate with the School: If your child is struggling with health, transportation, or other issues, reach out to your child’s teacher or one of our Attendance Coaches. We are here to help.
5. Set Goals Together: Talk to your child about the importance of school and set attendance goals together. Celebrate small wins, like a perfect week of attendance!

Let’s work together to make every school day count! Tarrant City Schools is committed to supporting families and reducing barriers so that our students can succeed both now and in the future.

Regular attendance is essential for academic success, so school or district staff will reach out to parents through phone calls, letters, and, if needed, home visits to support and encourage consistent student attendance. We will also ensure full compliance with all compulsory education laws.

Alabama State Law 16-28-3, Code of Alabama, 1975 requires all children between the ages of six and sixteen to attend school regularly.  Provided, however, a guardian may withdraw the child prior to the current compulsory attendance age.  Section 16-28-3, Code of Alabama, 1975.  Alabama State Law states that each child enrolls in a public school, whether the child is required by law to enroll, is subject to the school attendance and truancy laws of the state.  Parents or guardians having control over school-age children are responsible for their children’s regular attendance and proper conduct.  Failure to comply with the Compulsory School Attendance Law within (3) days after the date requires the Attendance Officer to file a complaint in the Jefferson County Family Court.