Attendance Matters

Did You Know…

• School attendance plays a major part in your child’s academic success.
• Too many absences can cause children to fall behind in school and makes it harder to learn how
to read.
• Building good habits in prekindergarten/elementary school helps children learn right away that
going to school on time, every day is important.
• Absences can affect the whole classroom if the teacher has to slow down learning to help children
catch up.

What You Can Do To Help?

• Ensure that all school-age children in your care are in school and on time daily.
• Set a regular bedtime and morning routine
• Lay out clothes and pack lunches and backpacks the night before.
• Try not to schedule dental and medical appointments or extended trips during school days.
• Make back-up plans for getting your child to school if something comes up.

How to Communicate with the School

• First, read the Prince George’s County Public Schools Attendance Policy.
• Talk to teachers if you notice sudden changes in behavior. Make sure teachers and school staff have
your up-to-date contact information.
• Ask for help from school officials, afterschool programs, other parents or community agencies if
you’re having trouble getting your child to school.