Greetings, CES Families,
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.Regular school attendance is an important part of student success. We encourage all CES families to make attendance a priority and help their children arrive at school on time and ready to learn each day.
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.
What's Happening at CES This Week?
August 31–September 4
Join the CES PTA We encourage all families to become involved with our amazing CES PTA. Your partnership and involvement make a tremendous difference in the experiences we are able to provide for our scholars.
i-Ready Math Testing – Kindergarten–5th Grade
Students in Kindergarten through 5th grade will complete their i-Ready Math assessments. Please encourage your child to get plenty of rest, arrive at school on time, and do their best.
PBIS Spirit Week
Students and staff will celebrate PBIS Spirit Week throughout the week.
1st – AR Kickoff
-- We are excited to kick off our Accelerated Reader (AR) program and encourage our students to make reading a daily priority!
2nd – Annual Title I Meeting at 9:00 a.m.
4th – PBIS Kickoff
-- We will officially kick off our PBIS program and celebrate our commitment to positive behavior, strong relationships, and a supportive school environment.
Please encourage your child to get plenty of rest, arrive at school on time, and approach each assessment with a positive attitude.
Have a wonderful week, and as always, thank you for being a valued part of the CES family!
Together, we are beginning a wonderful year of learning, growing, and aiming high at Challenger Elementary. We look forward to an incredible year filled with opportunities for our scholars to learn, thrive, and shine!
Lights... Camera... Action! Let’s make the 2026–2027 school year our best one yet!
Sherita Joiner
Principal, Challenger Elementary School
#LIGHTSCAMERAACTION2026
#STARSTUDDEDYEAR
#CESEAGLES
#AIMHIGH
Go Eagles!