Greetings CES Parents/Guardians,
Attendance Matters at CES!
The school year is off to a wonderful start, and we are so excited to have our scholars back in classrooms—learning, growing, and thriving together.
As we settle into our routines, I want to take a moment to remind families about the importance of good attendance. Every day a scholar is absent is a missed opportunity for learning. Frequent absences not only affect a scholar’s individual progress but can also impact the learning environment for the entire class.
Why Attendance Matters
Research shows that students who miss too much school are at greater risk of lower academic achievement, failing courses, and even dropping out. For this reason, we strongly encourage all students to be present every day they are healthy and able to attend.
Chronic Absenteeism
The State of Alabama defines a student as “chronically absent” when they miss 10% of the school year—about 18 days in a 180-day calendar (less than two days per month). Chronic absenteeism has a direct negative impact on student learning and long-term academic success.
What Families Can Do
Avoid scheduling vacations or routine appointments during school hours.
Talk regularly with your child about the importance of school attendance.
Keep children home only when they are truly sick.
Reach out to teachers, counselors, or staff if your child feels anxious about school.
Develop backup plans for transportation to ensure consistent attendance.
Attendance Notifications
To help families stay informed, the district sends automated notifications when a scholar is marked Unexcused Absent or Unexcused Tardy. If your scholar must be absent for an excused reason, please call the school office and/or send a written note.
Together, we can build strong attendance habits that will help your scholar succeed now and in the future. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in ensuring every child reaches their fullest potential.
Important Reminders:
Independent Arrival: We kindly ask that parents no longer walk or escort scholars to class. Our dedicated staff will be stationed in the hallways to guide and support scholars to their classrooms.
Morning Arrival: School opens at 7:30 a.m. For safety reasons, please do not drop off students before this time, as supervision is not available prior to 7:30 a.m.
Start of Instruction: Learning begins promptly at 8:00 a.m. Please ensure your scholar arrives on time each day so they can start the day ready to learn and succeed.
Together, we’re off to a magical start to a year of learning, growing, and Aiming High at Challenger Elementary!
Let’s Create Magic in 2025!
Love y'all,
Sherita Joiner
Principal, Challenger Elementary School
#CESMAGIC2025
#AIMHIGH
Go Eagles!