Schools honor, incentivize daily attendance with fun treats

Students around the Poughkeepsie City School District are being recognized for their attendance during the first two months of the school year.

At Smith Elementary, Friday brought a pair of surprises. Everyone received a bag of popcorn during their lunch period just for attending school on the day before Halloween. And, after a month-long contest challenging classes to achieve an attendance rate of 90% or higher, one class earned a celebration with apple cider, donuts and music toward the end of the day.

Warring Elementary likewise is rewarding students with perfect attendance each month with popcorn, and dozens of students have been making the grade.

Meanwhile, last month 24 students at Poughkeepsie High School were honored and treated to a sweet reward for their improvement attending school during the September and October months, as nominated by teachers and staff, and in consideration of their previous time at the school. While not all of them could attend the celebration, those who did enjoyed making their own candy apples with Attendance Caseworker Jennifer McQueen-Sealy. More perks for students who demonstrate improved attendance are planned for future months.

Showing up to school on time each day is a vital part of student growth, and each district building recognizes that in various ways each month and each marking period. Studies show students who are not chronically absent, even at the youngest levels, are more likely to stay on grade-level with their learning, graduate high school and attend some form of post-graduate schooling. We encourage all students and families to prioritize attendance. There may even be some popcorn in it for you.