Office of the Director, DoDDS-Europe

Diana J. Ohman, Director

Parent Newsletter Article for October 2008

GOOD ATTENDANCE AND PUNCTUALITY ARE A MUST FOR A SUCCESSFUL SCHOOL YEAR

The opening of another school year means that over 37,000 students have returned to the classrooms across DoDDS-Europe.  As the new school year gets into full swing, parents and students need to form a working partnership with the schools and their staff that will result in a successful academic year.  One important aspect of this partnership is consistent school attendance. Good daily attendance correlates directly with success in school.

Punctuality and good attendance are skills that need to be modeled by parents.  Parental attitude and example have an impact on children.  Parents need to let their children know how important school is to their future success.  Parents in partnership with the school and community should make sure their student attends school daily, completes the academic requirements, graduates from high school, and learns the values and skills needed so they can be successful in the world of work. 

Tardiness is an issue, too. When a student is late to school or class, the minutes quickly add up and valuable instructional time is lost. Studies show that students who are habitually late to school or class are more likely to bring the same habit into their adult life. We have to set an expectation for students to be on time...everyday.

Talk to teachers and our administrators about your child’s attendance and punctuality. If everyone does their part, DoDDS-Europe students can secure their place as educated citizens of the future.

DIANA J. OHMAN

Director, DoDDS-Europe