Every minute counts: The power of attendance for student success

Punctuality and consistent school attendance are more than just routines, they're the foundation of lifelong learning, strong social connections and future success.

At Spencer-Owen Community Schools, teachers, staff and administrators understand that when students arrive on time and attend regularly, they are better positioned to thrive personally, academically and socially.

When students are in class every day and on time, they stay connected with lessons, maintain academic continuity and avoid falling behind. Missing even a single day can disrupt learning; frequent absences can erode engagement and weaken the habits and skills that lead to long-term achievement.

Research shows that chronic absenteeism (missing 10 percent or more of the school year or roughly 18 days) is a major early warning sign. Children who are chronically absent in kindergarten or first-grade are significantly more likely to struggle with reading and other core skills, putting them at risk for lasting academic setbacks. When students fall behind early, they are more likely to disengage, and in high school, poor attendance strongly correlates with a higher dropout rate.

Indiana has clear laws designed to keep students in the classroom and support families along the way:

If a student misses five or more unexcused days within a 10-week period, schools must notify parents and develop an attendance plan, which may include wrap-around services, counseling, mentoring or academic support.

Students who accumulate 10 or more unexcused absences in a school year are considered habitually truant, and schools must report the matter to the local prosecuting attorney. However, prosecutors are not compelled to file charges, and they may offer supportive interventions instead.

More broadly, students who miss 10 percent or more of instructional time (chronic absenteeism) now have a standardized measurement across Indiana, and schools are encouraged to monitor attendance monthly and intervene early, even before truancy thresholds are met.

Spencer-Owen is committed to working with families to make attendance a positive, achievable priority. If your student begins to miss multiple days (even excused absences), our teachers and administrators stand ready to help with strategies like mentors, outreach, attendance plans or connecting you with helpful services.

To minimize disruptions and ensure your child gets the most learning time:

Whenever possible, schedule doctor's and dentist's appointments after school or, if needed during the day, late in the afternoon.

Establish a consistent morning routine, ensuring children are ready and at school on time.

Communicate proactively with school staff if appointments, travel, or family needs might affect attendance.

Every day of school is an opportunity for connection, growth, learning and building the habits that shape futures. At Spencer-Owen Community Schools, we believe every student can thrive with reliable attendance and punctuality, and we're here to partner with your family every step of the way.