Dear Putnam Valley Staff and Community,
Let’s make attendance a priority to impact student success!
Last week, the Putnam Valley Central School District held an “Attendance Summit.” A representative group of parents, administrators, a Board member, teachers, guidance counselors, social workers, psychologists and support personnel met from 12:00-2:00pm to focus on an issue of concern. Our staff has noted that there are too many students who miss school at all levels. Although our average daily attendance is in line with what would be expected, reported last at 94%, we would like to see it increase to at least 97%. Research is clear that attendance is a key factor in student learning, from the early years through graduation. The purpose of the Summit was to identify issues that impact attendance and develop some prevention and intervention models to make sure that students attend school. Many ideas emerged from the Summit. There was an emphasis on policy development and enforcement with consequences and actions. Equally important in the discussion were the supports offered to students and families, and attention to school and classroom climate and accountability.
We will be following up on many of the ideas shared during the Attendance Summit.
Thank you for your partnership.
Sincerely,
Dr. Frances Wills
Superintendent of Schools
