Dear parents,
As we reach the end of another term and I would like to take this opportunity to remind you all of our
procedures and routines particularly in reference to student attendance – being on time in the morning
and being picked up at the end of the school day.
Our school hours for students are:
7.30 am to 12.30 pm for PreKG – KG2 and 7.30 am – 2.30pm for Grades 1 – 12.
We notice that many students arrive late to school and therefore miss part their first lesson, and are being
picked up early in the afternoon without any valid reason, missing out on part of the last lesson.
This is even more evident on Thursdays.
Research has proven that there is a high correlation between school attendance (punctuality) and
academic performance and success, while absence from school is often the greatest single cause of poor
performance and achievement.
Why is it so Important to attend every day and be on time for lessons?
• Learning is a progressive activity; each day's lessons build upon those of the previous day(s).
• Reading the material covered and completing work independently does not compensate for the loss of
insight gained during class discussion
• Many classes use discussions, demonstrations, experiments and participation as part of the daily
learning activities, and these cannot be made up by those who are absent or late.
There are many benefits to students?
• Students with good attendance records generally achieve higher grades and enjoy school more.
• Regular school attendance patterns encourage the development of other responsible patterns of
behavior.
What can parents do to help?
• Parents must model the value of education, including the importance of regular attendance and
punctuality.
• Make sure that your child comes to school regularly, arrives on time and is picked up on time in the
afternoon - this will establish a good habit that will carry through life.
• If your child starts missing school, work with the school to put things right. Make sure your child
understands that you do not approve of him/her missing school. There is no excuse really for children
dictating whether they attend school or not.
• If your child is ill, must miss school for some other reason or is late, contact the school immediately. If
you ask for homework, make sure your child completes it.
• Do not expect the school to approve of shopping trips, regular medical appointments etc, during school
hours.
• Whenever possible, arrange family vacations during school holidays so that children miss as little school
time as possible.
• Take an interest in your child's school work -your child will value school more if you do.
Who else benefits from good school attendance and being on time?
• Other students: less classroom time is spent re-teaching and reviewing for students who have been
absent.
• Teachers: lesson plans are more likely to be completed when all students are present. Teachers must
sometimes postpone tests or other important activities until all students are present.
Remember, regular attendance being on time in the morning for start of lessons and being picked up in
the afternoon at the end of the school day, is necessary for success in school. Help ensure that your child
has the best opportunity for success by making sure he/she is in school every day and on time.
Costas Gikas
Principal ASIS