Wednesday, April 16, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Avon Maitland District School Board (AMDSB) is raising awareness about the importance of regular school attendance as we approach the final weeks of the year. As the weather improves and the summer break becomes nearly visible, it is important for all of us to help students stay motivated and continue making regular attendance a priority to maintain their momentum.
Regular school attendance has always been fundamental to student success. Research tells us that missing just 10% of school, or 2 days a month, has a notable impact on academic success. This context is the backdrop of the AMDSB attendance campaign: I AM Here.
The I AM Here campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of regular daily attendance and to provide staff, students and parents/caregivers with the necessary tools to bolster attendance across Huron and Perth.
For students: “I AM Here” means that they are present, on time and ready to learn each day.
For school staff: “I AM Here” means that they stand with their students. They are reliable, dependable, caring adults who facilitate a safe, welcoming classroom environment and are invested in each student’s success.
For parents/caregivers: “I AM Here” means that they are engaged in encouraging their child’s education and are ready to connect with school staff when necessary.
For the community: “I AM Here” means that we support and encourage our children and youth by offering support – financial, physical, emotional, social – to ensure that students can attend school regularly.
The focus on student attendance will be supported by a team of professionals. Our AMDSB Attendance Counsellors work collaboratively, as needed, with the Mental Health and Well-being team, Indigenous Education team, school administrators, and community partners. Our trained staff provide students with techniques to reduce anxiety and stress through the use of healthy coping strategies. If necessary, they can also support referrals to alternative programming or to community resources. Working with parents/caregivers, they will support the development of a plan that encourages a full return to academic learning. Students and parents/caregivers are asked to contact their school Principal to access the support of an Attendance Counsellor.
“We know that regular attendance is crucial to student success. This campaign not only raises awareness about this fact but also provides information and resources for students and families who might need extra support. It is never too late to make connections with your school community to support a student’s attendance.” says Ed Havenga, System Principal.
Watch AMDSB social media, school newsletters and other communication from AMDSB for strategies and tips to support a child’s regular attendance. For more information about the campaign, please visit amdsb.ca/iamhere.
For more information, please contact:
Chera Longston, Communication Manager
519-301-6363 or [email protected]