As we approach the end of the first semester, it’s a natural time to look back at how far we’ve come. From the classrooms to the athletic fields, our Chargers have tackled new challenges and grown as a community. But as the calendar turns to January, we have a unique opportunity: the chance for a fresh start.
Whether your attendance was perfect this fall or you hit a few bumps in the road, the new semester is a blank canvas. Here is why making a “New Year’s Resolution” for attendance is the best gift a Charger can give themselves.
1. The Learning Connection: Building the Charger Mindset
Learning isn’t just about reading a textbook; it’s a sequence. At Forest Meadow, our 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade curriculum is designed to build day-by-day.
- Don’t Miss the Chain: Think of a lesson like a TV show—if you miss an episode, the season finale won’t make sense. Missing one day can create a “knowledge gap” that makes the next day’s work feel twice as hard.
- Academic Success: National studies show that students who attend regularly are significantly more likely to read at grade level and pass their core courses. Consistency is the secret ingredient to a high GPA.
2. The Social “Glue”: Staying Connected to the Herd
Middle school is where your social life happens. When a Charger is absent, they miss out on more than just a lecture; they miss the connection that makes FMMS special.
- Friendships & Collaboration: Group projects, lunchroom laughs, and elective activities are where bonds are formed. Being present helps you stay “in the loop” with your friends.
- Developing Soft Skills: By interacting with teachers and peers daily, you are practicing “emotional intelligence”—learning how to lead, collaborate, and communicate.
3. Training for the Future: Chargers are Responsible
One of the biggest things you are learning right now isn’t found in a textbook: it’s responsibility.
- The Habit of Consistency: Employers rank “reliability” as one of the top traits they look for. By showing up even when you’re tired, you are training your brain to be disciplined.
- Long-Term Wins: Research by organizations like Attendance Works suggests that students with good attendance in 6th–8th grade are much more likely to graduate high school and find success in their future careers.
For Parents: Partnering for a Successful New Year
We know that “showing up” is a team effort. At Forest Meadow, parents are our most important partners in helping our Chargers succeed.
- Establish “School-First” Habits: Try to schedule doctor’s appointments or family trips during school breaks. If an appointment must happen during school hours, encourage your student to attend for part of the day.
- Monitor the “Digital Sunset”: Blue light from phones can disrupt sleep patterns. Help your Charger set a “digital sunset” where devices are put away 30–60 minutes before bed.
- The “Anxiety vs. Illness” Check: It can be tough to tell the difference between a physical illness and “school avoidance” due to stress. If your child is hesitant to attend, reach out to our FMMS counselors. We are here to help!
- Celebrate the Wins: Acknowledge the effort it takes to be consistent. A little praise for being reliable can go a long way in building a student’s confidence.
Did You Know? Missing just two days a month adds up to missing 10% of the school year. This is known as “Chronic Absence,” and it can make it much harder for a Charger to keep up with their peers.
A Fresh Start in January
Our goal for the new semester is simple: We want every Charger to feel missed when they are gone and valued when they are here. Let’s finish this semester with pride and head into the New Year ready to show up, speak up, and lead the way!
Go Chargers!
