Photo Courtesy of Nyah Ruff
In recent months, Hastings High has implemented a new attendance policy for students missing school for reasons unrelated to school activities. Implemented at the start of the academic year, the policy aims to enhance student attendance and increase academic performance.
“If you look at this time from last year as a whole, the entire student body is up 2.89 percent from where we were at the same time last year, which tells me that students are in class more,” Principal Jeff Linden said.
From the outset, the policy’s primary goal was to address chronic absenteeism, a persistent issue in previous years. These changes have led to more accountability among the students and increased academic performance.
“I believe that the attendance policy is holding kids more accountable, not just for showing up, but also their grades and giving them an opportunity, whether it’s out of hardship or just letting things slide on their end to maintain the same degree that their classmates are,” said Attendance Director Lance Creech.
Attending class is a crucial aspect of education. Despite the challenges, it’s essential to be present and engaged in the learning journey.
“We’ve noticed, even teachers have noticed, more students in the classroom, less students gone, which has increased student achievement and more students doing better overall. So all the indicators I’m looking at are showing a very positive impact on students,” Linden said.
Regardless of personal opinions, the overall improvement in student attendance indicates that the attendance policy is effective.
“My job is to make sure that they are on time and they’re in the classes that they’re supposed to be in, so they can be successful in their classrooms. So I’m putting the accountability back on the students, because, at the end of the day, it is their education that we’re talking about,” Creech said.
Consistent attendance and fulfilling responsibilities lead to success, whereas neglecting these duties can result in harder challenges.
“We don’t want high school to be hard, we want it to be fun. We want you to learn the things you need to learn, and we want you to be involved. Come to class, do the work, get your grade, pass your classes, get your credit, and graduate. That’s really what we’re asking. Overall my message is to just do what you’re supposed to do, and everything will be fine,” Linden said.
